PROTEK Tips - Reviews and News

Small Business Strategies for Surviving in an Information Age

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Fri, 01 May 2009 11:54:42 PDT

Small Business Strategies

for Surviving in an Information Age

Seminar Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Space is limited! Call Maui Chamber of Commerce at 871-7711 to Register!

Presented by Maui Chamber of Commerce and Maui Time Weekly / mauitime.com

It's an information age, and the rules of the game for small businesses are changing almost daily. Websites, blogs, social networking, Twitter, online calendars, new forms of marketing-all of these are critical to survival. Pioneering new media editor, Tom Merritt, new-media consultant and publisher Tommy Russo, and new media software developer, Mark Johnson will talk about how you can take advantage of these innovations to enhance your business for a changing audience. They will share ideas about practical ways that any business can add productivity and incremental revenue by creating practical, cost-effective digital and mobile solutions that are easy to implement and that generate positive results for your small business. You will leave with a small business toolbox checklist of the essentials.

Restaurants 2.0
Restaurants are difficult enough to run without being bothered with all of those internet 'things' people keep talking to you about. So how do you know what you really need to know? Showing up is the first step, but you'll have to be committed to learning and growing as well. At Restaurants 2.0 you'll be exposed to many of the important principles you can implement now, without heavy financial costs, to make sure your restaurant keeps up with the ever changing modern diner. Learn about online review and social food sites like: yelp, Urbanspoon, tripadvisor, mauitime.com. Get ideas on: website basics, modern comment cards, email address collection, online newsletters, bill inserts, online restaurant trends that affect your industry.

Small Business Toolbox
What does a modern small business office look like today? Can new tech save you money? Here we'll discuss hardware and software solutions for a modern small business office. Learn about free office productivity tools, web apps, voip, online banking, auto bill pay, yammer, web calendars, buying online ads, alerts, blogging tools, CMS, google labs, back-up/redundancy, and Wifi.

Social Media Marketing - A practical look
Should my business care about Facebook or Twitter? Learn Twitter basics like: following, followers, hash tags, @replys, search, Twitter apps, mobile apps, and what to Twitter? How to add picture, videos, or links to websites in Twitter posts. Link Twitter to Facebook to maximize your efforts! Celebs on Twitter and why we should care? How to market your business with social network sites like Facebook and Twitter. Should we Blog, or not? Local businesses marketing with Facebook.

Featuring...

Tom Merritt, Executive Editor, CNET TV, San Francisco
Tom is executive editor for CNET TV at CNET.com. He co-hosts the weekly call-in show CNET Live, as well as the podcasts Buzz Out Loud and The Real Deal. In addition, Tom hosts regular segments on CNET TV like Top 5, Insider Secrets, Quick Tips, and more. [twitter: @acedtect] http://www.tommerritt.com

Tommy Russo, Publisher, Maui Time Weekly, Wailuku
Tommy Russo is the founding publisher of Maui Time Weekly and mauitime.com. Through growing concerns over the future of newspapers, Tommy has focused attention on technology in media, sms, newsletters, podcasting, micro-blogging, and social media. As an early adopter of most technologies, Tommy is active on twitter, facebook, qik, and yammer. [twitter: @tommyrusso] http://mauitime.com

Mark Johnson, Logicspin & Menumill, Honolulu
Mark Johnson is founder of logicspin, is a Hawaii based software development and consulting company. Mark's experience ranges from his own online auction start-up back in 1996, the search engine AltaVista, Oracle Corporation, and most recently starting Menumill which provides simple website management and tools for restaurants. http://logicspin.com

Wednesday,
May 6, 2009
Call 871-7711 to register

Queen Kaahumanu Center
Meeting room
(old Sharper Image)

$20 Chamber members
$40 non-members
includes coffee and pastries

Seminar Schedule

8:30 - 9:00am
Registration

9:00 - 10:30am
Restaurants 2.0

10:45 - 11:15a
Small Business Toolbox

11:15 - 12:00pm
Break

12:00 - 1:30pm
Social Media Marketing

Community Voice in Jeopardy as Akaku Faces Bid

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 12:22:19 PDT

Akaku, the public television station for the county of Maui, may be up for bid because of controversy over its funding. Hawaii would be the only state to put its public access organizations up for bid, a decision which some say could disrupt and even jeopardize the future of public access television.

Three interviews with national Public Access experts on procurement.
Effects of Procurement video

The DCCA has set up public hearings across Hawaii’s islands regarding the designation and selection of public, educational and governmental (PEG) access organizations. In Maui County the public hearing dates are Tuesday, Oct. 7 on Moloka`i and Wednesday, Oct. 8 on Maui. Prepare your public testimony and take action.

Help Protect Public Access TV in Hawaii!!
Public hearing scheduled for Public Access, Akaku objects to contract competitive bidding by the State - DCCA http://www.tinyurl.com/3fvycr

Maui judge ordered state to release opinion on why public-access tv contracts should be awarded by bid. Maui News http://www.tinyurl.com/3ojuhs

DCCA set up public hearings across Hawaii regarding the designation and selection of public, (PEG) access organizations. Oct. 7 on Moloka.

DCCA set up public hearings across Hawaii regarding the designation and selection of public, (PEG) access organizations. Oct. 8 on Maui.

Published a new post: Putting the Public in "Public Access" http://www.akaku.org/?p=593

Visit http://www.akaku.org for more information..

Do you offer Network Installation and Low Voltage Data Services?

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Mon, 26 May 2008 17:29:54 PDT

Protek provides a wide array of network cabling solutions for businesses in need of new infrastructure and Ethernet drops. This includes running of Cat 5e and Cat 6 cable, both in-conduit when needed and within commercial buildings.

New low voltage data wiring installations can benefit greatly from the right combination of hardware. Protek provides a wide array of products that will help a business take full advantage of its new network infrastructure, including Power over Ethernet (PoE) devices such as switches, wireless access points, and VoIP phones that are operational through compatible products and software. By pairing a new structured cable network infrastructure with the right equipment and hardware from the point of installation, businesses can ensure their entire workplace is prepared to take advantage of their new installation.

Cat 5e cabling has been used extensively for many years and provides full functionality for almost all existing hardware including any office applications and point of sale systems. Cat 6 cabling is being introduced more regularly for use in bandwidth intensive situations including heavy file transfer, video editing, video conferencing, and VoIP functions over a busy network infrastructure. For most commercial practices that do not utilize high bandwidth applications, Cat 5e cabling will be effective for the foreseeable future.

The process involves the running of structured cabling or low voltage wiring from home run drops to demarcation points with the goal of linking drops directly to switches, making it possible to just plug in new systems and hardware directly to the network when they are installed. Every network installation is completed with proper termination, using cable boxes with individual keystones. Splicing is not used, cables are run cleanly and smoothly and data cables are not stapled, ensuring a clean, easily maintained infrastructure.

Protek recommends the installation of additional low voltage wiring drops for future installations of new technology as well as ongoing expansion in the form of network printers and VoIP telephone service. When completed during the initial installation process, the additional low voltage wiring drops are much easier and can save substantial amounts of time and money in future maintenance and installation.

For those in need of traditional voice phone cabling installation, Protek also provides this service, which can be included in addition to structured cabling drops or performed separately.

Prices vary depending on the particulars of a cabling installation. Starting hourly rates will apply in most cases, but it is recommended that anyone interested in having cable dropped for their commercial location contact Protek directly for a detailed quote or estimate.

http://www.protekhawaii.com

Windows XP to be “Upgraded” To Vista

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 19:26:23 PDT

Originally scheduled for January 2008, Microsoft will soon be fading out the option to use Windows XP on new computers, in favor of the new and vastly inferior Windows Vista. Despite numerous complaints by consumers and software experts, Windows XP's shelf life is short lived. By June, it is expected that all new computers ( including those that are on the low-end of the computer scale ) will all be running Windows Vista.

According to Microsoft, Windows Vista is receiving few complaints about its performance, and most
new computers can handle the operating platform without a hitch. They also claim that although most computers have the option to use Windows XP instead of Vista, those that purchase these new computers are opting to run Vista anyway and preferring it over the old platform. Microsoft claims that customers are not asking for XP to remain available, so they see no reason to keep it in circulation.

But consumers are telling a different story, arguing that most new computer retailers are not offering the XP “downgrade,” and that had the option to install Windows XP been offered, they would have chosen to use it instead. There have also been numerous lawsuits and public outcries over Windows Vista issues, implying that Microsoft has not been completely honest when they claim that consumers prefer Vista over XP. Vista's most glaring flaw is that it fails to run most basic programs that consumers and businesses continue to use productively. Once an individual purchases a computer with Microsoft Vista, they are forced to purchase all new software as well, some of which also will not work on Vista's platform.

This means that purchasing a new computer equipped with Vista involves a financial investment of several hundred additional dollars in software in order to continue to use it on a daily basis. If you don't have the money to make that large a purchase or you do not want to deal with the several inconveniences that are sure to occur if you buy a computer that uses Windows Vista, hurry to Protek today where we have HP, Lenovo and Custom Built Desktop and notebook Computers with XP Professional. Delivery times can vary depending on your needs.

HP DC5750 Micro Tower
HP DC5750 Small Form Factor
19' Wide LCD Monitors

HP Compaq dc5750 Microtower Perfect Small Workstation

AMD Athlon™ 64 X2 Dual-Core 4000+

1.0GB RAM

16X DVD+/-RW Drive

3-year Parts, 3-year Labor, 3-year Onsite warranty

from HP

Starting at $649.00

HP Compaq Business Desktop dc5750 - SFF - 1 x Athlon 64 X2 4000+ / 2 GHz - RAM 1 GB - HDD 1 x 80 GB DVD - Radeon Xpress 1150 - Gigabit Ethernet

Genuine Microsoft® Windows XP® Professional

HP PS/2 standard keyboard Mouse

3 year warranty from HP
Only $639.00

HP L1908wm 19-inch Widescreen Multimedia LCD Monitor

Two Connectors: 15-pin mini D-sub analog VGA and one DVI-D
(Analog/Digital)
Contrast ratio 1000:1

Warranty 3-year parts, 3-year labor, 3-year onsite limited warranty.
Next business day exchange from HP.
Just $249.00

PROTEK is located at: 737 Lower Main St. Suite A-2 Wailuku
| www.protekhawaii.com| 808.244.6699

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:21:42 PDT

Asus Xonar D2 Ultra Fidelity 7.1 PCI Sound Card

Asus Xonar D2 Ultra Fidelity 7.1 PCI Sound Card Specifications

* Output Signal-to-Noise Ratio (A-Weighted): dB
* Input Signal-to-Noise Ratio (A-Weighted): dB
* 24-bit D-A Converter of Digital Sources: Burr-Brown PCM1796 4 (123dB SNR, Max. 192kHz/24bit)
* 24-bit A-D Converter for Analog Inputs: Cirrus-Logic CS5381 1 (120dB SNR, Max. 192kHz/24bit)
* S/PDIF Digital Output: Dolby Digital, DTS, WMA-Pro
* S/PDIF Digital Input: 44.1K/48K/96K/192KHz @ 16/24bit
* Other line-level analog input (for CD-IN/TV Tuner): CD-In, Aux-In (4-pin header on the card)
* Digital S/PDIF Output: Coaxial and High-bandwidth Optical Combo Connector Supports 192KHz/24bit
* Digital S/PDIF Input: Coaxial and High-bandwidth Optical Combo Connector Supports 192KHz/24bit
* MIDI Ports: Additional MPU-401 MIDI I/O bracket and converter cable
* Operation System: Windows Vista/XP(32/64bit)/MCE2005
* Dolby Technologies: Dolby Headphone, Dolby Virtual Speaker, Dolby Pro-Logic IIx, Dolby Digital Live
* DTS Technologies: DTS Connect (DTS Interactive Encoder and DTS Neo:PC)
* Smart Volume Normalizer: Normalizes the volume of all audio sources into a constant level
* Xear 3D Virtual Speaker Shifter: Virtual 7.1 speaker positioning
* Magic Voice: Modifies the sound of your voice, for VOIP and online chat applications (Windows XP)
* Karaoke Functions: Music Key-Shifting and Microphone Echo effects (Windows XP)
* FlexBass: Professional Bass Management/Enhancement system
* Other Effects: 10-band Equalier/27 Environment Effects
* 3D Sound Engines/APIs: EAX2.0&1.0, A3D 1.0, DirectSound HW & SW
* DirectX: DirectX 9.0 or above required for 7.1ch output

www.protekhawaii.com

AMD Phenom Quad-core 9600 2.30GHz Processor

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:19:30 PDT

AMD Phenom Quad-core 9600 2.30GHz Processo

AMD Phenom Quad-core 9600 2.30GHz Processor Manufacturer Part Number: HD960ZWCGDBOX
Manufacturer Website Address: www.amd.com
Product Line: Phenom
Product Model: 9600
Product Name: Phenom Quad-core 9600 2.30GHz Processor
Marketing Information:

Realize new possibilities for connecting with friends, family, and digital entertainment with the phenomenal performance of the AMD Phenom 9000 series quad-core processor. Built from the ground up for true quad-core performance, AMD Phenom processors speed through advanced multitasking, critical business productivity, advanced visual design and modeling, serious gaming, and visually stunning digital media and entertainment.

Packaged Quantity: 1
Technical Information
Processor Core: Quad-core
Clock Speed: 2.3GHz
HyperTransport: 3600MHz
Cache Memory: 256KB L1 (Instruction) - 2MB L2 - 2MB L3256KB L1 (Data)
Architecture: 64-bit Direct Connect Architecture
Process Technology: 65nm
Multimedia Extensions: 3DNow! Professional TechnologyStreaming SIMD Extension 4 (SSE-4)
Featured Technologies: Cool 'n' Quiet TechnologyAMD64 TechnologyHyperTransport Technology
Platform Support: PC
Environmental Conditions
Cooling Type: Fan & Heatsink
Physical Characteristics
Form Factor: 940-pin Socket AM2+

www.protekhawaii.com

Don't be deceived by "cheap" hit and run computer repair!

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 14:35:34 PDT

It 's easy to go for the lowest price when looking for computer repair. But if your time is worth anything and it is to most people, why mess around with having computer repaired. Viruses are a fact of windows based computers these days, and cause users a great deal of waisted time, frustration and productivity. It is not the end of the world though. PROTEK can remove those viruses and usally have your computer back to you in a couple days. Most times this is not the kind of thing where "Some Guy" is going to be a able to come over to your home or worse office and push a few buttons making the whole thing go away. It takes hours of removing programs, scanning and updating even reinstalling in some cases. Non of these are a great conversation for sitting around a customers house all day talking about. It is a waist of time and money for everyone involved.

A much more proactive approach is to take your computer to a "reputable computer store with an established place of business". this way you can go on about your day of work, school or even vacation and don't have to entertain the "computer geek" all day in your home. Quite often we hear the same story. " I had "Some Guy" from the classifieds at my house all day and my computer still has viruses. He charged me $200 and I can't get a hold of him now because he won't answer the phone." What do I do??

By calling PROTEK first we can get your computer fixed right, the first time. Because we keep parts in stock we do not have to make four trips back and forth to "the store" to get the right parts, we usually have most of them in stock. Your computer will NOT be repaired by selling you used parts scavenged from the Compuswap or from our personal upgrades, we only use brand new parts with manufactures warranty in most cases ( Unless refurbished is the only option you will made aware of it ).

Because we can work on several computers at one time this lowers the cost associated with sitting in front of one computer for hours on end or rushing through it to go to the next place. World of war craft does not actually count as "years of computer repair experience" at PROTEK we require everyone to have verifiable certification for there position, even customer service specialist are required to complete ViTec phone and customer service training as well as product training. Your computer is never worked on by people NOT having less than a Comptia A+ Certification. Both apple technicians hold at least Current Apple Service certificates as well as OSX help desk.

Protek is a Maui based Computer Store!

Offering Residents and Local Businesses of Maui quality computer repair, parts and new computers for over 6 years.

Our Central Maui Service and Sales Center Is located at: 737 Lower Main in Wailuku accroos from the 76 Station.
And Open Monday - Friday 10am to 6p.m.

We offer in store repair of both PC and Apple. Including Hardware repair, Software installation, Virus removal and Data backups including failed Hard Drives.

Our Computer Technicians are CompTia A+ Certified and Apple Certified.

PROTEK is the only CompTia Authorized Service Center Gold on Maui and now also an Apple Authorized Service Provider doing in Warranty repair of Apple products.

We carry a large selection of new computers and hardware even accessories for PC, Mac, iPods and cell phones. PROTEK is also an Authorized HP, Lenovo, Toshiba, Netgear, D-Link, T-Mobile and Clearwire Dealer.

++++ Financing available for major purchases!

Call PROTEK: 244-6699 or on the web at: http://www.protekhawaii.com

Macbook Air Blows the Roof Off Expectations

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 12:20:19 PDT

Apple has already long-ago proven itself far more than a mere one-trick pony (with the Apple IIE, iPod, iPhone, etc.). And now the ubiquitous brand is back in the saddle again!

Taking a break from our usual iPhone discussion, we thought we'd take a moment to focus in on one of Apple's other recent innovations that's also taking the world by storm - the Macbook Air. Apparently, like the iPhone, the hype over the Macbook Air is a lot more than just a bunch of...well, hot air.

In our modern age's never-ending obsession over miniaturization, it comes as no surprise that when the prevailing masters of innovation - Steve Jobs and Co. - deigned to invent a better laptop they took this to mean a lighter weight laptop. Being that the whole point of a laptop is to be able to carry it around with you wherever you go, this makes total sense.

At only 0.16" to 0.76" thick and weighing in at under 3 pounds, the product of Apple's efforts, the Macbook Air, hit stores on January 29 and recent reports reveal that they've been selling out of stock every single day since then. This includes venues in New York, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. At the latest count, stores both online and off are estimating an approximate one-week delay between the time a customer orders and purchases a Macbook Air and the time it arrives for pickup (or delivery). The last time such a claim could be made, it was for the hot-selling (and still sold out now, a year-and-a-half later, the Nintendo Wii).

Critics question whether these figures are misleading, caused more by an inadequate supply than a voracious demand, but the numbers are raising eyebrows globally nonetheless. It seems even Apple itself didn't expect such a passionate reception, and is scrambling to keep up with all the orders.

In response to the sweeping popularity of their new product, Apple has even gone so far as to post a Macbook Air tracking page on their website for prospective buyers to find out whether and where a Macbook Air can be found for immediate purchase in their (or a nearby) area.

Costing between $1,800 and $3,000 (depending primarily upon processor speed: 1.6 or 1.8 GHz) many thought the price point too high to merit these kinds of figures, but figures don't lie. It seems laptop-users are willing to pay a premium to ease the burden on their shoulders, back, etc.

Is it just the bearable lightness of Macbook Air's being that makes it so desirable to consumers or is there more to it than that? Part of the appeal has to be the incorporation of multi-touch technology, adopted and adapted from the iPhone. Another novel feature is Remote Disc, allowing users to access DVDs and CD-ROMs from their other Macs or Windows PCs through their Macbook Air.

Whatever the cause, one thing seems certain: the abbreviation MBA no longer means what it used to. These days, and for the foreseeable future, it stands not for Masters of Business Administration, but for Apple's own Macbook Air.

Corey Bruhn is the owner of iPhone Mobile Mob, http://www.iphonemobilemob.com who specializes in reporting news, updates and unique features of the Apple iPhone. Download our FREE iPhone Ebook to find out more about your iPhone.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Corey_T_Bruhn

Desktop Computer - Know It Better

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 12:09:53 PDT

Desktop computers, a type of micro computer, fit on a desktop and are used widely in offices and home. Personal computers or home computers, workstations, internet servers and special communications computers are four types of desktop computers used. Desktop computers are widely used in household, schools, business as these computers are very cheap.

The desktop computers are normally modular and its components can be easily upgraded or replaced. These are available in elegant case styles. They are used for carrying various tasks like organizing digital photos, office tasks, editing of video and accessing Internet.

Micro Instrumentation Telemetry System (MITS) 8800 offered the first desktop type system in 1975. The launch of this variety of computer encouraged scores of other companies to produce personal computers. In 1977, Tandy Corporation (Radio Shack) launched its model of personal computers having a keyboard and CRT. In the same year the Commodore PET and Apple II were also released market and these are forerunners of today`s Desktop computers.

Introduction of IBM PC, in 1981 by IBM, was a milestone in the field of Personal Computer. Based on Intel`s 8088 microprocessor, it became a success overnight. The introduction of a 16 bit microprocessor paved way for more powerful and faster micros. Also standardization in computer industry could be made as IBM PC used an operating system which was available to all the computer manufacturers. Apple Mac PC using Motorola 68000 is another series of 32 bit popular personal computers launched by Apple in 1984.

A modern desktop computer consists of Display Motherboard, CPU, Primary storage (RAM), Expansion cards, Power supply, Optical disc drive, Secondary Storage(HDD), Keyboard, Mouse.

All the desktop computers come with ports which allow plugging different external devices into the computer viz, keyboards, monitors, scanners, printers.The different type of ports are Universal serial bus, Ethernet, Modem, Headphone, Serial, Parallel, PS/2, VGA, Power connection, Fire wire, and Card reader.

You should surf the internet to check for detail guides available before purchasing a desktop computer. A few important points are listed here which may help you to have an informed purchasing decision:

Processors (CPUs): It is a very difficult choice to make between an Intel processor and an AMD. The main difference comes in the relative speed and number of cores in the processor. You should refer for the detail information on this in the internet sites.

Memory (RAM): It is best to have at least 1 GB memory system and older DDR memory standard should be avoided. For better performance, faster memories are must and ensure that future upgrades of memory are possible.

Hard Drives: 250 GB or more storage space is best to have in present days. Serial ATA interface is used in most drives now for ease of installation.

Optical Drives (CD/DVD): Multiformat DVD burner which can support both +R/RW and -R/RW with a 16x recordable speed are best to have in desktop computers.

Video Cards: Integrated graphics is sufficient if you are not doing 3D graphics. The important things which you should consider are the memory capacity of the card, version of Direct X supported, output connectors and the performance. For the purpose of games a Direct x 10 card with 256 MB memory should be considered.

External Connectors: Instead of internal cards, external interfaces are preferred now for various upgrades and peripherals to computers. IEEE 1394 or FireWire points and USB 2.0, both should be present in a desktop computer.

Monitors: These days LCDs are more popular than CRTs. This is because they have less power consumption and have reduced size. Also traditional aspect ratio of 4:3 is being replaced by wider display screen and prices of 20-22 inch models are decreasing.

This article can also be accessed in portuguese language from the Article section of page Computer
Roberto Sedycias works as IT consultant for PoloMercantil

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roberto_Sedycias

What is Computer Repair Technician?

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 21:34:50 PST

A computer repair technician is a person who repairs and maintains computers and servers. The technician's responsibilities may extend to include building or configuring new hardware, installing and updating software packages, and creating and maintaining computer networks. Computer repair technicians work in a variety of settings, encompassing both the public and private sectors. Because of the relative newness of the profession, institutions offer certificate and degree programs designed to prepare new technicians, but computer repairs are frequently performed by experienced and certified technicians who have little formal training in the field.

A private sector computer repair technician might work in a corporate information technology department, a central service center, or a retail computer sales environment. A public sector technician might work in the military, national security or law enforcement communities, health or public safety field, or an educational institution. Despite the vast variety of work environments, all computer technicians perform similar physical and investigative processes, including technical support. Experienced technicians might specialize in fields such as data recovery, system administration, or information systems. Some technicians are self-employed or own a firm that provides services in a regional area. Some are subcontracted as freelancers or consultants. This type of technician ranges from hobbyists and enthusiasts that volunteer or make a little side money, to those who work professionally in the field.

The repair of problems can range from a minor setting that is incorrect, to spyware, viruses, and as far as replacing hardware or an entire operating system. Some technicians provide on-site services usually at an hourly rate. Others can provide services off-site, where the client can drop off at the repair shop. Some have pickup and drop off services for convenience. Some may also take back old equipment for recycling.

Hardware repair

While computer hardware configuration varies widely, a technician works with two basic types of hardware; units limited to a location (desktops, mainframes and supercomputers) and more portable (laptop and handheld) devices. Technicians also work with and occasionally repair a range of peripherals, including input devices like keyboards, mice, and scanners, output devices like displays, printers, and speakers, and data storage devices ranging from external hard drives to specialized high-storage desktop computers called servers. Technicians involved in system administration might also work with networking hardware, including routers, switches, fiber optics, and wireless networks.

Software repair

When possible, repair technicians protect the computer user's data and settings, so that after repair, the user will not have lost any data and the technician can fully use the device with little interruption, and then diagnose the problem. Addressing the issue, the technician could take action as minor as adjusting one or several settings or preferences, but could also apply more involved techniques like installing, uninstalling, or reinstalling various software packages. A reliable, but somewhat more complicated, procedure for addressing software issues is known as a restore, in which the computer's original installation image (including operating system and original applications) is reapplied to a formatted hard drive.

Information from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_technician

According to:

Nature of the Work

In the last decade, computers have become an integral part of everyday life at home, work, school, and nearly everywhere else. Of course, almost every computer user encounters a problem occasionally, whether it is the annoyance of a forgotten password or the disaster of a crashing hard drive. The explosive use of computers has created demand for specialists who provide advice to users, as well as for the day-to-day administration, maintenance, and support of computer systems and networks.

Computer support specialists provide technical assistance, support, and advice to customers and other users. This occupational group includes technical support specialists and help-desk technicians. These troubleshooters interpret problems and provide technical support for hardware, software, and systems. They answer telephone calls, analyze problems by using automated diagnostic programs, and resolve recurring difficulties. Support specialists work either within a company that uses computer systems or directly for a computer hardware or software vendor. Increasingly, these specialists work for help-desk or support services firms, for which they provide computer support to clients on a contract basis.

Technical support specialists respond to inquiries from their organizations’ computer users and may run automatic diagnostics programs to resolve problems. They also install, modify, clean, and repair computer hardware and software. In addition, they may write training manuals and train computer users in how to use new computer hardware and software. These workers also oversee the daily performance of their company’s computer systems and evaluate how useful software programs are.

Help-desk technicians respond to telephone calls and e-mail messages from customers looking for help with computer problems. In responding to these inquiries, help-desk technicians must listen carefully to the customer, ask questions to diagnose the nature of the problem, and then patiently walk the customer through the problem-solving steps.

Help-desk technicians deal directly with customer issues and companies value them as a source of feedback on their products. They are consulted for information about what gives customers the most trouble, as well as other customer concerns. Most computer support specialists start out at the help desk.

Network and computer systems administrators design, install, and support an organization’s computer systems. They are responsible for local-area networks (LAN), wide-area networks (WAN), network segments, and Internet and intranet systems. They work in a variety of environments, including professional offices, small businesses, government organizations, and large corporations. They maintain network hardware and software, analyze problems, and monitor networks to ensure their availability to system users. These workers gather data to identify customer needs and then use the information to identify, interpret, and evaluate system and network requirements. Administrators also may plan, coordinate, and implement network security measures.

Systems administrators are responsible for maintaining network efficiency. They ensure that the design of an organization’s computer system allows all of the components, including computers, the network, and software, to work properly together. Furthermore, they monitor and adjust the performance of existing networks and continually survey the current computer site to determine future network needs. Administrators also troubleshoot problems reported by users and by automated network monitoring systems and make recommendations for future system upgrades.

In some organizations, computer security specialists may plan, coordinate, and implement the organization’s information security. These workers educate users about computer security, install security software, monitor networks for security breaches, respond to cyber attacks, and, in some cases, gather data and evidence to be used in prosecuting cyber crime. The responsibilities of computer security specialists have increased in recent years as cyber attacks have become more common. This and other growing specialty occupations reflect an increasing emphasis on client-server applications, the expansion of Internet and intranet applications, and the demand for more end-user support.

Work environment. Computer support specialists and systems administrators normally work in well-lighted, comfortable offices or computer laboratories. They usually work about 40 hours a week, but if their employer requires computer support over extended hours, they may be “on call” for rotating evening or weekend work. Overtime may be necessary when unexpected technical problems arise. Like other workers who type on a keyboard for long periods, computer support specialists and systems administrators are susceptible to eyestrain, back discomfort, and hand and wrist problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Computer support specialists and systems administrators constantly interact with customers and fellow employees as they answer questions and give advice. Those who work as consultants are away from their offices much of the time, sometimes spending months working in a client’s office.

As computer networks expand, more computer support specialists and systems administrators may be able to provide technical support from remote locations. This capability would reduce or eliminate travel to the customer’s workplace. Systems administrators also can administer and configure networks and servers remotely, although this practice is not as common as it is among computer support specialists.

Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement

A college degree is required for some computer support specialist positions, but certification and relevant experience may be sufficient for others. A bachelor’s degree is required for many network and computer systems administrator positions. For both occupations, strong analytical and communication skills are essential.

Education and training. Due to the wide range of skills required, there are many paths of entry to a job as a computer support specialist or systems administrator. Training requirements for computer support specialist positions vary, but many employers prefer to hire applicants with some formal college education. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or information systems is a prerequisite for some jobs; other jobs, however, may require only a computer-related associate degree. And for some jobs, relevant computer experience and certifications may substitute for formal education. For systems administrator jobs, many employers seek applicants with bachelor’s degrees, although not necessarily in a computer-related field.

A number of companies are becoming more flexible about requiring a college degree for support positions. In the absence of a degree, however, certification and practical experience are essential. Certification training programs, offered by a variety of vendors and product makers, may help some people to qualify for entry-level positions.

Other qualifications. People interested in becoming a computer support specialist or systems administrator must have strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills because troubleshooting and helping others are vital parts of the job. The constant interaction with other computer personnel, customers, and employees requires computer support specialists and systems administrators to communicate effectively on paper, via e-mail, over the phone, or in person. Strong writing skills are useful in preparing manuals for employees and customers.

Advancement. Beginning computer support specialists usually work for organizations that deal directly with customers or in-house users. Support specialists may advance into positions in which they use what they have learned from customers to improve the design and efficiency of future products. Job promotions usually depend more on performance than on formal education. Eventually, some computer support specialists become software engineers, designing products rather than assisting users. Computer support specialists in hardware and software companies often enjoy great upward mobility; advancement sometimes comes within months of becoming employed.

Entry-level network and computer systems administrators are involved in routine maintenance and monitoring of computer systems, typically working behind the scenes in an organization. After gaining experience and expertise, they often are able to advance to more senior-level positions. For example, senior network and computer systems administrators may make presentations to executives and managers on the security of the company computer network. They also may translate the needs of an organization into a set of technical requirements based on the available technology. As with support specialists, administrators may become software engineers involved in system and network design.

As technology continues to improve, computer support specialists and systems administrators must strive to acquire new skills. Many continuing education programs are provided by employers, hardware and software vendors, colleges and universities, and private training institutions. Professional development seminars offered by computing services firms also can enhance skills and advancement opportunities.

HD-DVD Players, Films Dumped on eBay - Buyers Flock

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 18:27:28 PST

When a technology format succumbs the story usually ends right there as the marketplace has no need for dead technology. Shortly after the priests gave last rights to Toshiba's HD-DVD format I thought I would monitor that harbor of market fluidity known as eBay to see how low - and presumably how ignored - HD-DVD player units and movies would go. I guess it is a morbid curiosity on my part to watch those who invested in the technology - some as recently as this past holiday season - bite the bullet and dump their once coveted item for the victorious Blu-ray.

I was correct in my assumption that HD-DVD owners would dump the technology. Here is something I did not expect; these players and films are finding many takers.

Huh? Did these people miss the memo that Blu-ray won the war? Considering that high definition player technology is still the domain of the early adopter - in other words the savviest consumer who is purchasing home electronics - I find it hard to believe there are that many naive people out there.

As I thought about a reason to explain this energetic activity for a condemned technology it dawned on me that the post-mortem HD-DVD market may just be benefiting from the rules of a disposable economy. These are consumer actions where if a product is cheap enough it is worth it for the buyer to commit to it for the short run even if all they will do at the end of that run is dispose of it in the trash. I'll explain this logic and why it might offer a possible reason for what is happening on eBay.

By Richard Menta 3/7/08

Full story avaliable at: MP3newswire.net

What is Pidgin?

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:10:13 PST

Pidgin is an instant messaging program for Windows, Linux, BSD, and other Unixes. You can talk to your friends using AIM, ICQ, Jabber/XMPP, MSN Messenger, Yahoo!, Bonjour, Gadu-Gadu, IRC, Novell GroupWise Messenger, QQ, Lotus Sametime, SILC, SIMPLE, MySpaceIM, and Zephyr.

Pidgin can log in to multiple accounts on multiple IM networks simultaneously. This means that you can be chatting with friends on AIM, talking to a friend on Yahoo Messenger, and sitting in an IRC channel all at the same time.

Pidgin supports many features of the various networks, such as file transfer, away messages, and typing notification. It also goes beyond that and provides many unique features. A few popular features are Buddy Pounces, which give the ability to notify you, send a message, play a sound, or run a program when a specific buddy goes away, signs online, or returns from idle; and plugins, consisting of text replacement, a buddy ticker, extended message notification, iconify on away, spell checking, tabbed conversations, and more.

Pidgin runs on a number of platforms, including Windows, Linux, and other UNIX operating systems. Looking for Pidgin for OS X? Try Adium!

Pidgin integrates well with GNOME 2 and KDE 3.1's system tray, as well as Windows' own system tray. This allows you to work with Pidgin without requiring the buddy list window to be open at all times.

Pidgin is under constant development, and releases are usually frequent. The latest news regarding Pidgin can be found on the news page.

Your board says "no," but your shareholders might tell me "yes"

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 23:24:24 PST

"Microsoft says that it will press ahead with its bid to acquire Yahoo,
undeterred by the board of director's decision to reject the offer.
Microsoft is mulling over a couple of options, including taking its
offer directly to shareholders. "Based on conversations with
stakeholders of both companies, we are confident that moving forward
promptly to consummate a transaction is in the best interests of all
parties," said the software giant in a statement. Saying that the
proposal last week offered "superior value" to Yahoo shareholders,
Microsoft called Yahoo's decision to reject its "full and fair" offer
"unfortunate."

"Microsoft's options include launching a proxy fight to push out the
current board of directors at Yahoo, replacing it with group that would
be amenable to the $44.6 billion offer. The downside to that approach
is that it has the potential to alienate people at Yahoo and could
result in an exodus of some of the company's talent. A more likely
option is recruiting institutional investors and other large
shareholders to put the heat on the board to reconsider the offer."

Yahoo Just say Noooo!

Picasa Collages

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 21:29:35 PST

Making Proof Sheets and Collages is easy with Picasa.

Just choose your photos in and Album and use the Collage button to create different layouts. Once they are created you can size them for any use or even upload them using blogger. If you are into taking photos it is hard to beat Picasa for organizing them.

New Store Front Photo..

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 21:27:48 PST

Finally we are getting caught up after moving.
Most of the major projects are done, just down to the details now.
This is a photo of the current new location.. be sure to stop by and check it out..

Sales of HD DVD Players Plunge After Warner Move

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:06:30 PST

"LOS ANGELES — One week after Warner Brothers Entertainment announced that it was abandoning its support for the next-generation HD DVD format in favor of the Blu-ray high-definition format, consumers abandoned HD DVD.

What was a 50-50 market split in 2007 for the high-definition players shifted sharply in Blu-ray’s favor in the new year. For the week that ended Jan. 12, Blu-ray hardware captured 90 percent of the market, according to data collected by the NPD Group, a market analysis firm."

Check out the whole story at: The New York Times

What is Bug Labs?

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:03:24 PST

What is Bug Labs?

Bug Labs is a new kind of technology company, enabling a new generation of engineers to tap their creativity and build any type of device they want, without having to solder, learn solid state electronics, or go to China. Bug Labs envisions a future where CE stands for Community Electronics, the term "mashups" applies equally to hardware as it does to Web services, and entrepreneurs can appeal to numerous markets by inventing "The Long Tail" of devices.

The Platform

BUG helps you explore the realm of personalized devices and applications, and find ways to solve many of the problems current gadgets can't.

For example, with BUG, you can easily assemble and program a GPS + digital camera device that automatically publishes geo-tagged photos as a web service. Integrating with an online photo-sharing service like Flickr is only a few more lines of code away, and now you have your own real-time, connected traffic-enabled mobile Webcam!

The platform is designed to enable a collaborative development environment. BUGnet, our online community, is tied in directly to the BUG SDK, which allows developers to connect with others, share information, and jointly build products or services.

Get all the information on this cool new product at there web-site: http://www.buglabs.net

SUPERAntiSpyware

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:10:58 PST

SUPERAntiSpyware is the most thorough scanner on the market. Our
Multi-Dimensional Scanning and Process Interrogation Technology will
detect spyware other products miss! Easily remove pests such as
WinFixer, SpyAxe, SpyFalcon, and thousands more! Repair broken Internet
Connections, Desktops, Registry Editing and more with our unique Repair
System. Our Dedicated Threat Research Team scours the web for new
threats and provides daily definition updates.

PROTEK is Moving Oct. 1st 2007

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:45:35 PST

After over 4 years in our current location we have found a great new Store Front. We will be moving in Oct. 1st 2007 to 737 Lower Main St. next across from the 76 Station. Most will be glad to know our parking situation will be much improved also it will do away with the dreaded stairs. Be sure to check the web site for updates and more information www.protekhawaii.com. See you there!

View Larger Map

Maui Computer Disposal

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:14:03 PST

We make computer recycling easy on Maui!

Maui Computer Disposal accepts all computers, technology, game consoles, network, telephones, test equipment and cell phones working or not.

We also accept overstocks of electronic parts. You can drop off your equipment at one of our locations or events.

Businesses with a truckload of items can request business pickup service.

Maui Computer Disposal use disk erase software to overwrite Hardrives we reuse, and destroy other Drives for metals recycling. This is for your peace of mind.

Maui Computer Disposal is not a non-profit and cannot offer a tax deductible receipt, but we can guarantee that every effort will be made to recycle and refurbish your equipment keeping toxic waist out of the local landfill and making sure your personal information stays personal.

More Information: http://mauicomputerdisposal.com

Dharma Initiative :Project

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:15:04 PST

Here is a project I just finished, Thought I would show it off here on the blog. There's got to be some lost fans around here. Just click the photo for the full construction worklog.

Open Suse Releases 10.2

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:46:47 PST

The openSUSE project is a community program sponsored by Novell. Promoting the use of Linux everywhere, openSUSE.org provides free, easy access to the world's most usable Linux distribution, openSUSE. The openSUSE project gives Linux developers and enthusiasts everything they need to get started with Linux.

The goals of the openSUSE project are:

* Make openSUSE the easiest Linux distribution for anyone to obtain and the most widely used open source platform.
* Provide an environment for open source collaboration that makes openSUSE the world's best Linux distribution for new and experienced Linux users.
* Dramatically simplify and open the development and packaging processes to make openSUSE the platform of choice for Linux hackers and application developers.

With the launch of the openSUSE project, openSUSE is now developed in an open model—public development builds, releases, and sources will be posted frequently here and you will have access to our Bugzilla database for defect reporting. You can also sign up on special interest mailing lists to make sure that you are always getting the most recent news on the openSUSE project and the openSUSE distribution. In time (see our project road map), we will create the next-generation distribution development infrastructure including a code management system and a public build server.

www.opensuse.org

Important Consumer Warning About DRM

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:50:06 PST

Please read this consumer warning. This stuff really exists and you should know about it. Please also pass this onto anyone else who may not be aware of what DRM is.

Warning DRM! Digital Restrictions Management

This holiday season when you bring home a new electronic device, will you be bringing an intruder into your home? Will you and your family members end up being monitored and reported on by the software installed on these devices?

DRM is used to restrict what you and your family can do with the electronic devices and media purchased. It is an attempt by technology and media companies to take away your rights. DRM Means: No fair use. No purchase and resell. No private copies. No sharing. No backup. No swapping. No mix tapes. No privacy. No commons. No control over our computers. No control over our electronic devices.

DRM software and hardware monitors and controls your family's behavior.

Did you know that iPod users are restricted from transferring their music to other non-Apple devices because the music downloaded from iTunes is encrypted - locked with DRM? Apple allows you to write an audio CD, but will leave you with very lousy sound quality if you ever want to take your music to a new portable device in a compressed format.

Did you know that Sony Music was caught secretly planting DRM “rootkits” on customers computers. All it required was for you to play the CD you had purchased from them...

DRM is more than a nuisance. The film and music industry are setting the agenda to increase their control. They have demanded that technology companies impose DRM to deliver for them what their political lobbying to change copyright law never has: they aim to turn every interaction with a published work into a transaction, abolishing fair use and the commons, and making copyright last forever. By accepting DRM users unwittingly surrender their rights and invite a deeper surveillance. This will put your family's viewing, listening, reading, browsing records on file with them.

What gives them that right?

Stay away from DRM-dependent products like Blu-ray and HD-DVD, iTunes, Windows Media Player, Zune, Amazon Unbox...

Stay away from retailers who insist on making DRM part of the package.

Stop financing the people who want to restrict you.

Find out more at www.DefectiveByDesign.org and find 10 easy ways you can help make others aware.

Thanks for reading.

Wine - Windows API on X

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:48:04 PST

Wine is an Open Source implementation of the Windows API on top of X and Unix.

Think of Wine as a compatibility layer for running Windows programs. Wine does not require Microsoft Windows, as it is a completely free alternative implementation of the Windows API consisting of 100% non-Microsoft code, however Wine can optionally use native Windows DLLs if they are available. Wine provides both a development toolkit for porting Windows source code to Unix as well as a program loader, allowing many unmodified Windows programs to run on x86-based Unixes, including Linux, FreeBSD, Mac OS X, and Solaris.

Check it out at: http://www.winehq.com/

Picasa

noreply@blogger.com (PROTEK) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:49:15 PST

Find the pictures you forgot you had.

Picasa organizes your entire collection while you watch, scanning the images on your computer and automatically sorting them by date.

Move and re-name pictures from inside Picasa.

Want to clean up messy folders and move pictures around on your computer’s hard drive? Simply drag and drop pictures from one folder in Picasa to another. Picasa will make the change permanent after double-checking with you. Want to change a picture’s filename from 671056398a.jpg to Lisa.jpg? In Picasa, it only takes seconds to re-name one picture or a group of pictures.

http://picasa.google.com/