Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Tablets (computers)

I have been getting a lot of questions pertaining to tablets which seems to this years technology find. Some want to believe that the next logical leap from a desktop or laptop would be the tablet. But as with all technology investments, I tell them that they should do their homework first.

If you don't know the jargon, then you should take the time to get the basic terminology. This will help you to make a knowledgeable decision.

List the things you want from your tablet: download books, movies, music, read email, etc...

Don't buy any device straight out of box. Visit stores that have tablets on display.

Preview the quality of the screen in both indoor and outdoor lighting. Take a moment and learn the details of the machine: Display or screen size and weight; 3g, 4g, or WiFi options; note the operating system and its options.

And don't forget the price tag. When evaluating the cost of any technology device, I estimate the cost of the device, additional contracts, and the accessories. Then I device by the number of years I expect the device to be used for upgrades or replacement. $800/3years=$267.

After completing all of the above steps, I then ask myself "is it worth it?"

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Ohio Ebook Project

Now that many of you are using the Ohio Ebook Project for your ebook needs, I wanted to give you a couple of tips on using the site.
1. If you click on the Advanced Search you may limit your search to specific formats. For example: Use the drop down arrow next to Format and select Acrobat PDF or EPUB to limit the search to only those types.
2. You do not need to type in an author, publisher, title, keyword, etc... to generate a search. Simply select a format option.
3. If you scroll to the bottom of the Advanced Search page, you will find a box to check for searching only items that are available.
4. You may return books before they are due. This will allow you to borrow more items.

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Writing website for children

While I was surfing the web for interesting sites for children I came across Kidscom a site for children to write and publisher their short stories. Each week children from two age groups (11 and younger as well as 12 and older) are randomly selected and their stories are featured.

Monday, November 8, 2010

MP3 Adapter

Recently, I wanted to listen to the music on my MP3 player while I was doing things around the house. I didn't really want to carry it around or use ear buds. I have a basic model surround sound system in my house but didn't know how to connect the two. With a little research, I found an MP3 Adapter that allows me to connect a typical MP3 player to a surround sound system. The one I found is produced by General Electric. It is easy to hookup and comes with a 7 foot cord.

My children discovered the extra wire and now listen to their devices as well. (I'm not so sure if my neighbors like it as much.) Nonetheless, now my surround system can play any gaming device, DVD player, CD player, portable listening devices, TVs, oh and of course, the radio.