Planet Earth Central

Archive for May, 2009

What are MSN emoticons or smileys? The necessity to render emotions in written words while still keeping the style casual led to the appearance of smileys or emoticons that are simple combinations of regular keyboard characters. They are used in different forms of communication involving the computer, such as: email and instant messages. Among the most popular, smiling symbols represent the first MSN emoticons introduced, that are common to other web services. The smiling faces represent a substitute for the face-to-face casual encouraging smile, but depending on the context other meanings can be conveyed.

msn messenger emoticons

Since many people tend to use these signs while communicating via the Internet, MSN, Yahoo, and Google, too, provide you with lists of emoticons, which are converted to real icons while used during a chat session. These emoticons graphically express an emotion through an icon. Hence the name emoticon. Whether MSN emoticons or symbols belonging to another provider, they truly make online communication more pleasant. The idea of using these symbols is to emphasize the writer’s feelings, emotions and, also, to do it in a funny way.

msn emoticon

Is there any difference between smileys and emoticons? The tendency seems to be for the Europeans to use the term emoticons, whereas Americans tend to refer to them as smileys. Anyway, messenger users often call them Yahoo smileys, MSN smileys or MSN emoticons. There are huge numbers of sites that give away free smileys, of which  Smiley Central smileys are the most popular.

MSN messenger gives its users some free emoticons but it also allows you to use your own custom MSN emoticons. Many of these, which are really great, have been designed for messenger by fans. The basic MSN emoticons feature enables you to use animated emoticons up to 50×50 pixels in size. At My Emoticons, for instance, all sorts of categories are available for the MSN emoticons, and romance, bad boys, girlie or moody instances are just a few examples. They have even come up with adult emoticons and sex smilies, which, though not for everybody, are still terribly funny.

msn emoticons

There is a tag for every MSN emoticon necessary for item generation. Type a colon and a right hand bracket and you’ll get a smiley. The use of the opposite bracket will make the smiley sad or desolate. Many other emoticons come with similar tags, and a constant Internet user can learn them quickly. For those that are not so easy to remember, there is a drop down menu available in the chat window. Like this, MSN emoticons will be just a click away.

Computers are everywhere: at home, at work and at school.Most of us seem to spend a large part of our days squinting at a monitor and with more of our shopping and entertainment being driven by the Internet, computer use is surely going to increase.For many that’s not a problem. If you spend more than two hours a day at a PC, then it’s likely that you will experience symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).
CVS is caused by many environmental factors.Decreased blinking while you’re focusing on a computer screen is also thought to be a factor.Studies have shown that the blink rate goes down to 6–8 blinks per minute if you’re focused on a computer display (the normal blink rate is 16-20 per minute).This leads to dry eyes and the focusing for long hours also puts strain on the ciliary muscles in the eye. The most common symptoms of CVS include headaches, focusing difficulties, burning eyes, tired eyes, aching eyes, dry eyes, double vision, blurred vision, light sensitivity, and neck and shoulder pain. 
CVS can also accelerate the early onset of a condition called presbyopia (usually associated with aging) where you experience difficulty reading fine print, particularly in low light conditions, eyestrain when reading for long periods blurred vision.
The positive news is that it is relatively simple to ease these symptoms. Daft as it may sound, try blinking more often!   If you are not a glasses wearer, simple changes like ensuring your computer screen is clean, correctly positioned, and set up properly will make a difference.
If you do wear glasses, then ensuring your lenses are clean and smear free will help to reduce glare and reflections. Anti-Reflective coatings on your lenses (available free of charge through suppliers like SelectSpecs.com) will eliminate surface reflections and enable good, clear vision day or night.Anti-Reflective coatings also have the cosmetic advantage of making the lenses of your glasses appear almost non-existent, so your eyes look more natural.
Whether you wear glasses of not, you can improve your vision at work by having regular eye examinations, taking frequent breaks and resting your eyes every 20 minutes and avoiding glare or bright reflections on the screen.Change to an LCD display if you are using a CRT monitor.Purchase a minimum 19 inch screen with the highest resolution possible and a dot pitch of .28 mm or smaller.They lack the “flicker” of CRT monitors, are kinder to the eyes and generally have an anti-reflective surface.  

The even better news is that If you you use a computer or VDU screen on a regular basis (i.e. for at least an hour most days), then according to the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992, your employer is obliged  to pay for regular eye examinations. Your employer may have a pre-existing scheme or they may refund you the cost of an examination.  If that examination reveals that you require glasses specifically for Display Screen Equipment use, your employer must also pay for budget  glasses.

I’ve been using a Canon Powershot I2 IS for the full three years now. Very good digital camera with a great 12X zoom. Yet, I preferred a digital camera to carry in my pocket. Numerus times I just didn’t feel like dragging a large camera with me to parties or events. Canon 1100IS fills the bill. I now carry it everywhere.

The pictures it produces are astonishing. The 8 megapixels and 3X zoom produces a picture that you can crop to the point that you get almost the same picture as you would get with the 5 megapixels 12X zoom lense. The film feature is great too, even better than the I2 IS.

Canon SD1100IS camera feels wonderful in your hand with a solid, superior feeling. If you have used Canon cameras before the menus are very intuitive. I would not have purchased this camera (or any camera for that matter) if it did not have the Picture Stabilization feature. This is particularly a must as you get older.

We did close-up pictures on flowers and even hair and eyelashes and it’s magnificent what resolution we had with the camera and with much clearness. The camera is easy to use and is little smooth and compact. I got the one in brown color and it looks special and sohpisticated without looking too overly girly or masculine. Sound quality through the video recording was clear and pictures were nice and vivid and not at all pixelated.

By the way there is an advantage to the Brown color: If you get to use the optical view finder outside, the camera itself makes minimal glare for you eye to see more clearly through the small opening. The color also makes the LCD playback pop. And as a bonus, it actually makes the camera a luxury feel, you have to see it in person to appreciate the color.

I recently took it to a monthly card party and everyone went wild over it. So much so that one individual sat right down at the computer and ordered one!

If you want a sub-compact, little camera that makes fantastic pictures, I extremely recommend the Canon SD1100IS. Definitely a good purchase and well worth the money.

Internet security programs are an important part of computer today. When you surf the Internet, network and share files, you are exposed to a plethora of viruses. A virus is designed to attack your computer without your knowledge. The consequences of a virus attack is devastating as you can lose important data and have files corrupted. You also can’t ignore the Internet threats. Identity theft is a major concern these days and having your PC hooked up to the Internet makes you more vulnerable to having your personal information stolen. When downloading files onto your computer, you need to be cautious as there might be adware, spyware or some other rogue software in it. Now you know the dangers lurking around the Internet and the harm it can do to your computer, don’t you think it is wise to take appropriate measures such as installing an Internet security software?

Your computer may already have an anti virus or firewall, but that does not mean your are completely protected. The information technology is always improving. Hackers are always trying to manipulate new technology in their effort to steal or disrupt personal computers. That’s why Internet security software companies do not stop churning out better products to help people like you and also for corporate.

Users are always thinking about Internet security. If you could find one Internet security program that can protect your system from virtually all threats, you could sleep without worrying about data loss or stolen.

You don’t have to look far for such a software as many manufacturers have come up with all-round security Internet programs. Many of these softwares combine several security components such as firewall, antivirus, antispyware, antispam, anti-phishing, and even parental control. Deciding which one to purchase may be a bit of a puzzle for you. Just be certain the one you choose can fully shield you from all sorts of online threats.

You also want keep yourself updated on the latest development in the Internet security suite. Updating your Internet safety software is a crucial step in fighting the increasing number of rogue programs spreading on the Internet. Not updating your Internet protection programs makes you vulnerable to new viruses, worms, trojans and other kinds of harmful program.

Every day, you’ll find new malicious software. Your Internet security program must have the ability to recognize these new programs. It cannot be emphasized enough how vital it is you perform updating. Allow your security software to catch current Internet threats by installing new signatures. If you don’t updates, you’ll fall behind on these new online threats. It is recommended that you do a weekly update of your security program’s components and database.

Take note that these Internet safety softwares will share your computer’s resources. Don’t be surprise if your find your computer a little slower. Slow boot up is one of the common problem with these software. As the technology advances, the newer Internet security suites takes less resources. Do you know that Gatekeeper Pico doesn’t rely on your computing resources? This is another reason why you should upgrade your Internet security suite frequently.

As you are aware of online threats such as identity theft, worms, Trojans, viruses, and spyware, you would want the best Internet security program for your personal computer or laptop. Yoggie Gatekeeper Pico has been touted as one of the best Internet security package. This piece of hardware is so small that you can carry it with you anywhere. It can secure your PC from online intrusion. The security is equivalent to the Pentagon standard. Visit Yoggie Gatekeeper Pico for more information.

With life coming at you so fast, it is important to stay abreast of the latest technological terms. Sometimes, there are terms that can apply to different applications. Take for example mobile technologies. In one instance it is referring to a dual-action processor found in many desktop computers and laptops. In this example, it refers to the use of mobile technology, such as PDAs and Smartphones. The use of these technologies is increasing every day as more people crave the latest gadgets on the market.

Read Nokia E71 Reviews here, we also have some nice pictures of this device.

Life comes at you fast, especially in the realm of technology where there are terms that are continuously flying at you. Some have dual meanings, such as mobile technologies. Mobile technology can refer to a dual-action processor and it can refer to the mobile gadgets, such as PDAs and Smartphones. We are living in a mobile age and if you are going to stay in contact with your home and work, then you must be able to be contacted no matter where you are.

One piece of mobile technology that you need to check out is the iPhone. This is the top of the line model, as far as mobile technologies go, and has received fantastic reviews from both users and the editorial staff of AZOOMED.com.

Azoomed.com is a valuable tool that you can use when it comes time to buy your hand held device. They offer both editorial reviews and user reviews of different products that are currently on the market, along with reviews of older pieces of technology. One example of mobile technologies is the hand held devices produced by HTC. One in particular is the HTC Touch Pro. This device is top of the line and is currently being sold and manufactured around the world.

The reviews come from its outstanding performance and speed. The HTC Touch is operating on Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional and has the capabilities of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, along with a Qualcomm MSM7201A ARM Processor. The 2.8 inch screen is unbelievable with its color pixels and it features a replaceable battery to ensure that documents and other information are not lost when the battery dies. It also features a large quantity of memory and is equipped with Outlook, Word, Excel and Internet Explorer.

There are other mobile technologies on the market today that can be bought for far less than the HTC Touch Pro price tag. However, few can match its performance power. One of its chief competitors is Apple’s new iPhone 3g, which users have fallen in love with for its extra capabilities, such as the use of an iPod and a gaming Smartphone. Whatever you decide is up to your own unique preferences and your own personal needs.

There are plenty of mobile technologies out there when it comes time to make your decision on which model and series to buy. Do not let price be the only determining factor in your decision. Yes, some models are going to cost more than others, but the price may be worth it in the end depending on what you need. A great example of this is the RIM BlackBerry Storm 9530 read RIM BlackBerry Storm 9530 Reviews here.

There are quite a few different methods that you can choose if you are looking for effective data backup but the online data backup method is by far one of the most popular of all. With the right online data backup service you will have all the data backup protection that you are looking for and it also makes it much more convenient for you as well.

Imagine for example you have spent months working on your on your latest computer aided design project and your hard drive crashes, what would you do then if you did not have those valuable files saved elsewhere?

In the world of computers, loss data can be devastating, especially if you work online. While there are certain possibilities for recovery of data after such a disaster, these are not reliable enough and this is why you need to get the appropriate data backup solutions in place.Data Backup ensures you have a safe copy of your files just in case.

There are a few different technology and software options that you can choose from when it comes to data backup, including online backup (which is also referred to as remote backup) for one because it is so convenient and because it is often free as well.

It is going to take a bit of effort on your part when it comes to choosing the right online data backup service solution for you. After all, everyone’s needs are different, and so you are going to need to follow a few easy steps in order to best determine which online data backup service is going to be right for you.

Now to find the right online data backup service you will need to do a bit of research. Find out all that you can on each different type of software program, and see what each has to offer. Each type of software is going to have different features and protection guidelines and so you are going to want to be aware of all of this.

You might like to try out the Storage Pipe online data backup services, their online backup and recovery service is one that is complete and operates over a secure connection to a remote data center.Their service provides you with an offsite corporate data protection solution that is completely secure and reliable, so you will never have to worry about losing important computer data again, that said there are other good providers around as well.

These are just a few ideas to get you started and give a few ideas about whats on offer. Business users will of course have far greater needs for backup and remote file access as they have to consider business continuity and disaster recovery options. Do a bit of research and understand what you need before committing to a solution.

For disaster recovery and business continuity you may be better speaking to one of the data recovery services companies as these often are very experienced in the requirements of business backup.

For more great tech information visit technology explained

OPENRSM CloudBackup is a serious, easy to setup, easy to use,  and easy on the wallet alternative to Apple’s .MAC iDisk.OPENRSM Cloudbackup mounts a synching online network drive on Windows, Mac OSX, and Linux while alos letting you save and access data just like a local folder on your desktop.This online backup solution is simply terrific.

Along with network drive there’s multi computer folder sharing, bandwidth control, automatic backup and even incremental changed block backups with file versioning.  As an extra kicker is that all data sent to and from your OPENRSM CloudBackup is 256 bit AES encrypted. The client software works identically on all supported Operating Systems too (Windows, MAC, and Linux).I’ve not found anything that will to that for you.

The cost is extremely low. They really mean it when they say: “pay only for what you use” - there is a flat monthly fee for your initial 50GB of storage and bandwidth. Even if your backing up lots of computers you don’t pay any extra unless your storing over 50GB, and then it’s a low per GB fee after that!You can use one account to backup an entire network of MAC’s, PC’s, and Linux machines.You can even compare various other online backup services on their website with a convenient chart too.

I was a .customer for MAC iDisk but not any longer.  CloudBackup is a great alternative if you want a great iDisk style backup with a little more power and alot more versatility.Even if your using another Internet backup service, you owe it to yourself to give this one a try.  Not only is it easy and inexpensive, it’s powerful without being confusing.

This is the online internet backup you’ve been waiting for.

Gadgets are excellent. They make people’s lives that little bit easier and allow us to get through things much easier. They are central to all of our lives and we can take them everywhere. On holiday or event to the local shops, as well as playing a significant role at work. The functionality of gadgets such as iphones or laptops allows us to stay connected with our friends and family, almost anywhere.

What gadget features the most in people’s lives? I would suggest the most used gadget today is the mobile phone. Many people actually say that they feel naked without it. People are heavily reliant upon phones for many different things and, as the price has reduced so much in recent times, mobile phones are more accessible, as they are almost given away by high street stores.

As the mobile phone is the most commonly used gadget, what do people actually use them for? This has so many answers that it would take pages and pages to get near to answering. One particular benefit of the mobile phone has been the fact that they allow us an element of safety in that they provide us with a constant line of communication between us and our loved ones.

The trusty mobile phone has actually saved people in difficult situations. I have read stories about people getting lost in snowstorms contacting their families. They have then contacted local mountain rescue teams and help has been initiated. Without the phone, it is difficult to work out how such people would have survived, as their lives had been saved.

As I had previously written, mobile phones are integrated within the very fabric of the business community and I often think about how businesses managed before they were with us. From pizza delivery drivers calling in the next order, to large warehouses that give them to their staff to communicate with, mobile phones are a type of gadget that is integral to almost all businesses.

Mobile phones, as a gadget, can also be somewhat restrictive to some people. Historically, many workers were able to enjoy their weekends with few interruptions. This then enable people to relax and unwind and to recoup ready for the next busy working week ahead.

But as employees now have their mobile phones next to them at most times of the day it can be difficult to escape work as they can be so easily contactable. Whereas the weekend or indeed any day off could be used to relax, the mobile phone ringing can often be unsettling and even more so if it involves long discussions about work.

Gadget insurance information can be found throughout the internet. Gadget insurance and Gadgets news and technonlogy articles are all areas of research worth considering and Gadget Cover is freely available online