(ARA) – There are more laptops on college campuses today than ever before. In fact, many universities require incoming freshmen to provide their own laptops. Students and professors use their laptops for work, communication, gaming, photos, music, movies and more. Losing a laptop no longer means just losing a hard drive, screen and a DVD burner. Losing a laptop now means losing your memories, hobbies and, most importantly, any confidential personal data that may be stored on it.

The recent downturn in the economy has created an increased temptation for laptop theft. According to a recent Ponemon survey, a laptop goes missing every 50 seconds. That number is likely to rise this year as a result of the recession. Absolute Software, a company specializing in computer theft recovery, data protection and asset tracking, is calling this the perfect storm for laptop theft, especially at colleges and universities.

“The popularity of laptops on college campuses has increased over the past few years,“ says Lyle Singular, associate vice president of recovery services at Absolute Software. “The combination of increased availability, greater opportunity for theft on campuses, along with tighter consumer budgets due to the economy, has created the ideal environment for laptop theft.”

According to a survey conducted by Absolute Software, dorm rooms and schools are among the top five places for laptop theft. And with the mobility of laptops, students are even more likely to use them in public places like coffee shops, libraries and in classrooms, further exposing them to theft.

College students should follow these tips to help them prevent laptop theft:

* When working in a public place, like a coffee shop or library, do not leave your laptop unattended. Either take it with you when you leave your table or lock it to a table or other fixed structure before leaving. Also, don’t assume your laptop is safe in a classroom, even when you are in it. Take your laptop with you when you leave the classroom or get up from your desk to work on a group project.

* Leaving your laptop out on your dorm room desk is an invitation to thieves. Many dorm rooms have a constant flow of traffic going in and out, without anyone really paying attention to their belongings. Some students will even leave their doors open to run to the bathroom or down the hall. Always hide your laptop in a secure location and lock it when you are out of the room, even if it is for a short time.

* Even if you are discreet and constantly aware of your laptop’s location, use a tracking and recovery program in case of theft. Software like Computrace LoJack for Laptops by Absolute Software is an easy and inexpensive solution to help recover stolen laptops. They even have a Theft Recovery Team staffed with former police officers to help the local police force track down your laptop and obtain search warrants. With a recovery rate of three out of every four laptops that call in stolen to Absolute, Computrace LoJack for Laptops offers added protection and peace of mind.

* Do not use the telltale laptop bag or sleeve. This is a giveaway to any thief that you are carrying a laptop. Instead, find a more discreet carrying case, like a tote bag or regular backpack.

* Never leave your laptop exposed in the backseat of your parked car, even if you are just running to class or dropping a book off in the library. Either bring it with you or discreetly lock it in your trunk. Many laptop thieves will not hesitate to break a window and quickly steal your laptop if they see it in your car.

* While waiting in a line or even in your seat in class, do not leave your laptop on the floor at your feet. It is very easy for someone to casually walk by and take it or reach down and grab it while you are concentrating in class.

* Personalize your computer with stickers or labels, especially if everyone at your school uses the same or similar models. This will make it easy for you to identify if someone is walking away with your laptop, even by accident.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Tags: laptop security, laptops, laptops on college campuses, security

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Most people in the world today have an interest in the Bluetooth technology and want to take advantage of it as best they can.

There are many ways to do this, but of course the absolute best way is to first learn about the Bluetooth technology and what it involves, and then to choose the correct Bluetooth devices such as the Bluetooth headset and Bluetooth stereo headset, those which are going to provide you with what you need.

About Bluetooth Technology

Bluetooth technology is basically a type of technology that uses an ingenious method to create a localized, personal area network. One of the ways that Bluetooth devices avoid interfering with other systems is by sending out very weak signals of about 1 milliwatt. Bluetooth can connect up to eight devices simultaneously, and with all of those devices in the same 10-meter radius, you may think that they would interfere with each other but they will not.

Bluetooth is a wireless protocol that utilizes short-range communications technology facilitating data transmission over short distances from fixed and mobile devices.

Devices

There is an array of Bluetooth devices to choose from, one of the most popular being the Bluetooth headset. The Bluetooth headset is used for a number of purposes, and always comfortable and stylish any Bluetooth headset will be very beneficial.

There are two main styles of Bluetooth headsets that you can choose from, some which are held in place by a loop around the ear and others which are held in place by being physically jammed into your ear. Of course the first tend to be more comfortable, but there are models of both types that are quite popular.

A Bluetooth headset will generally be more expensive than any other kind, but well worth it. There are many reasons why it will be worth it for you to go with the Bluetooth name, and know that Bluetooth headsets can also be used to connect with various other devices such as your computer.

Make sure that you understand all that the Bluetooth technology can offer you before making any decisions on which model you would like so that you can ensure you will choose the most suitable model for you and your needs.

When you are comparing headsets, make sure that you consider cost, ergonomics, and ease of use more than any other factors. Make sure that it is comfortable, easy to use and affordable.

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The best bluetooth keyboard on the market is difficult to assess, because the large number of choice available to you in bluetooth keyboards. The first choice is whether you want a QWERTY keyboard or a mini keyboard. The second choice is whether you want a standard keyboard configuration or an ergonomic keyboard configuration. The third choice is whether you want an actual keyboard or a virtual keyboard. The last and fourth choice is whether you want plain keyboard or a hi-tech looking keyboard.

To determine who has the best bluetooth keyboard, and who has the best bluetooth keyboard for you, a review of what is available in necessary. The first choice is the QWERTY or mini bluetooth keyboard. Since mini bluetooth keyboard has a couple of different keyboard configurations (where the keys are placed) you need to carefully look at your choices. The QWERTY bluetooth keyboard is the standard 104 key computer keyboard, that mirrors the keyboard of a typewriter. If the function keys are necessity for your software, the mini bluetooth keyboard is probably not the best bluetooth keyboard for you, as it lacks the functions keys.

Your second choice in the best bluetooth keyboard sweepstakes, is the standard or ergonomic keyboard configuration. This is a personal choice. Some people require an ergonomic keyboard to fight off carpal tunnel syndrome for the amount of keyboarding they do. Some people hate the ergonomic keyboard configuration. You need to test the keyboards and find the one that fits your body and your typing style.

The third choice is the fun, I’m living at the Jetson’s house, best bluetoon keyboard choice of actual physical keyboard or a virtual keyboard. Yes, I said virtual keyboard. You can purchase software and hardware that projects a virtual keyboard onto any flat surface which you can then use to type. I hate to admit it, but this one is just so much fun, and so very “cool”, I want to choose it.

Your fourth and last choice in the best bluetooth keyboard choices is how it looks. Once again this is really just a personal choice. However, you need to be happy with how your office looks. Spend a little bit of time and make sure that you find the bluetooth keyboard that makes you happy.

What Issues Do I Need to be Aware with Bluetooth

There are a couple of things that you need to be careful of when you are purchasing the bluetoon keyboard that won your best bluetooth keyboard choice. Make sure that your bluetooth is bluetooth2. There are 3 levels of bluetooth, with vary by the distance. Most of the bluetooth equipment available is bluetooth2, but it never hurts to be sure.

The last item which might change your choice for best bluetooth keyboard is battery life. All bluetooth runs on batteries, so very that it will have sufficient life or rechargeable batteries.

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If you want to find the best Bluetooth headset out there, there are a few steps that you are going to want to take. This is not super important because after all, no matter what Bluetooth headset you choose you are going to reap the benefits that the Bluetooth technology has to offer.

Here are a few tips that will certainly help get you started and make you more aware of the benefits that the Bluetooth technology has to offer.

About Bluetooth

Of course to find the best Bluetooth headset one of the very first things you are going to want to do is learn more about the technology itself and what it has to offer.

Bluetooth technology makes it possible to provide unique and innovative services to a professional worker or small group of workers using portable devices. It replaces clumsy wires, and makes information transfer as quick and convenient for users as possible.

Bluetooth technology is a wireless protocol that connects electronic devices while they are in close vicinity of one another.

Benefits

Of course if you want to find the best Bluetooth headset you are going to want to be aware of all the benefits the model has to offer. Everyone requires different features and functions of their headset, depending on the purpose they will be using the headset for and you are going to want to learn more about this before deciding on any model.

Do Your Research

Once you are considering a particular Bluetooth headset, one of the things you are going to want to do is read a Bluetooth headset review on the model. This will help you out tremendously because you will be getting an honest, firsthand review on the model and better determine whether or not it is going to be worth you buying.

All of these tips will help you to find the best Bluetooth headset and you are never going to go back to your old headset after you have experienced the Bluetooth technology and all that it offers.

No matter what Bluetooth device you purchase you will definitely not regret it and are sure to have all your personal and business tasks enhanced tenfold with the technology. Remember that it is always updating and becoming better and better, so you are going to want to keep your eyes and ears open and watch out for new Bluetooth-enabled devices to come out on the market.

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(ARA) – Americans are cutting costs in many areas of their lives — but not, it seems, when it comes to staying connected. While the overall mobile phone industry, like most others, is feeling the recession’s effects, smartphone sales are booming.

Unlike ordinary mobile phones, smartphones offer Internet access, e-mail, music and calendars that sync to desktop or notebook computers — some even offer a touch screen and full keyboard. In addition, they have all the features of a standard mobile phone — contacts, camera, texting, games and the ability to dial favorite phone numbers with the press of a single button.

And while Americans are tightening their belts, they’re also discovering that saving money doesn’t have to be painful, says Lynn Fox, who keeps an eye on smartphone trends at Palm, Inc. “Buying a low-priced smartphone can feel like a splurge without much impact on your wallet,” she says. “It’s a great way to get something nice for yourself or someone you care about, without breaking the bank. And it can actually wind up saving you money.”

In the last quarter of 2008, U.S. smartphone sales rose 12 percent over the same period in 2007, and constituted about 23 percent of all handset sales at the end of last year, according to market research firm, NPD Group. Fox says the smartphone trend may seem contrary to Americans’ new belt-tightening mindset, but actually makes budgetary sense.

“Smartphones are fast, easy, reliable and convenient, and are the most efficient way to stay in touch with personal and professional contacts, news and other information. And you can do it on your own time, at your own pace. Customizable features let you bring the world to your phone,” says Fox.

“Rather than carry multiple devices, like a regular mobile phone and a PDA, you can get all the functions you need in a single, compact device. With prices dropping, smartphones are even more cost-competitive with traditional mobile phones,” she says. And she notes that with a more powerful phone, many customers are able to cancel their conventional landline phone, saving them far more than the cost of upgrading their phone.

Palm’s Centro leads the way in terms of price, typically selling for just $99 — or even as little as $49, depending on the carrier.

“Centro has been particularly popular among college students who have less to spend but need the Internet, texting and other applications at their fingertips,” says Fox. “Many people see smartphones as a luxury that is at once practical and affordable.”

Palm has found that more people are taking the smartphone plunge for a variety of reasons:

* Doing more with less — Smartphones plug people in to their favorite social technologies (like texting, Facebook, streaming music and video services) with a convenient, attractive, easy-to-carry package.

* Communicating any way you like — Smartphones not only let you talk to friends, family and business contacts over the phone, they provide access to voicemail, e-mail, texting and the Internet.

* Falling prices — Some smartphones (like the Centro) are competitive with or even cheaper than traditional low-cost mobile phones.

* Greater control and flexibility — Features like a color touch screen, fast speeds for Web browsing and wireless e-mail, sleek design and the ability to add on applications, make smartphones a “feel good” product that’s also practical.

To learn more about smartphones and the Palm Centro, visit www.palm.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Tags: benefits of smartphones, Centro, Palm, Palm Centro, smartphone sales

(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)

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Bluetooth is a name that you can really stand behind. Bluetooth is a wireless protocol that utilizes short range communications technology facilitating data transmission over short distances from fixed and/or mobile devices, creating wireless personal area networks.

The basic intent behind the Bluetooth technology was to create a single digital wireless protocol that would be able to connect multiple devices and overcome issues arising from the synchronization of these devices.

Bluetooth has done all this and more, and provides a way for people to connect and exchange information between various devices such as mobile phones, telephones, laptops, personal computers, PDAs, digital cameras, and more. This technology is unlike any other and provides so many wonderful benefits to so many people.

If you are going to purchase a Bluetooth mouse, whether that be a Bluetooth laptop mouse or any other type, one of the best things that you are going to be able to do for yourself is read a Bluetooth mouse review.

By reading a Bluetooth mouse review you are going to be getting an honest, firsthand opinion on the particular make of mouse that you are considering and therefore be able to make the decision on whether or not it is going to be right for you.

Where to Find Them

So you want to read a Bluetooth mouse review but are not sure how to find them? Well the Internet is definitely going to be one of the best available resources to you here. With the Internet you are able to save yourself a great deal of time and money, and you can read reviews from all over the world.

This allows you to get the broadest and most comprehensive opinion on the lineup out there and all that you have to choose from.

Besides reading a Bluetooth mouse review there are a couple other steps that you are going to want to take as well to ensure that you make the very best choice here.

Try Them Out

Other than reading a Bluetooth mouse review, you will want to head to your local electronics store so that you try out those that you are interested in. This will also be useful to you because then you can talk to a professional who has experience with the different models and who will be able to talk to you and help you best decide which mouse will be right for you and your needs.

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(ARA) – In the current economic environment, many people are refocusing their priorities on family and home. Experts say more Americans are creating a home theater experience in their home instead of going out. Perhaps you’re thinking about using your tax refund for a new HDTV. Or maybe you’re getting a new home theater system in time to invite friends over for the summer baseball season or to enjoy this fall’s football games in big-screen style.

But do you know how you’re going to incorporate this new technology into your home decor? LG Techorator Doug Wilson, from TLC’s “Trading Spaces” and “Moving Up,” has some tips to streamline your space and cut out the clutter. Techorating means combining technology and interior design so that a room works as one unified space.

* Recycle the old technology.
You don’t need your old box TV or huge computer monitor anymore, so why not be environmentally responsible, get it out of your house and recycle it? Companies like Waste Management and LG Electronics offer nationwide recycling programs for unwanted electronic products at 150 designated “eCycling Centers” across the country. Visit www.lgusa.com/green to find out more about the programs near you.

* Pick a focal point.
Now that the old stuff is gone, find your room’s focal point and work your way out. “In large rooms, make sure you don’t go overboard with one particular theme, pattern or technology,” says Wilson. “With just a few integral pieces, the room can be made to feel spacious, yet comfortable.”

Remember to streamline by removing unnecessary clutter and installing shelving units or wall-mounting your new HDTV.

* Consider your space.
This is a case where bigger is not always better. Technology needs to fit the space you have; otherwise it can overwhelm a room. While large flat-screen HDTVs are a nice upgrade, they can overpower the room if the screen size is too large for the space. You need other items on the wall to offset the presence of the TV. If you’re still shopping around, take measurements of your wall space along with you to make sure you get the perfect sized technology.

* Practice cord control.
Nothing causes more headaches than trying to hide all the cords behind furniture while still trying to reach the available outlets. “Go wireless,” says Wilson. “Many leading technology companies, including LG Electronics, offer wireless speakers and TVs, giving your living space a crisp, modern feel.”

* Use digital accents.
Digital photo frames placed throughout the room and house can hold family photos during the regular year, but bring a reminder of your favorite team’s great season when you have everyone over to watch the games. The photos can help get the conversation going, especially if everyone has just met. Plus, this is a decoration you don’t have to clean up — either reprogram the frame or take it on the road to the next game party.

Whether you’re equipping a tiny den, medium-sized bedroom or expansive media room with the latest in consumer electronics, TLC’s Wilson recommends techorating as a way to get the most from your new equipment and your new digital lifestyle. For more techorating ideas, visit www.lgusa.com/techorator.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Tags: decorating, decorating for technology, techorating

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If you are interested in finding a Bluetooth wireless mouse of course you are going to want to make sure that you get the best Bluetooth mouse. In this case, you are going to need to know that there are actually a few different models considered as being the best Bluetooth mouse, and so you will want to choose from these.

BT500

One mouse considered as being one of the best Bluetooth mouse models is the RadTech BT500. This Bluetooth mouse is ideal for use with laptops because it is small and fits very well in your hand.

Why is this one of the best Bluetooth mouse models? There are a few different reasons actually. For one, it is an excellent mouse that comes with 3 buttons, including a programmable scroll button. It uses rechargeable batteries which are included, and so you never again have to worry about having to purchase more batteries.

It is also very affordable which is nice, because these days even to buy a mouse can often be quite pricey.

Logitech V270 Cordless Bluetooth Mouse

Another of the best Bluetooth mouse models and one that should definitely be a top contender on your list is the Logitech V270 Cordless Bluetooth mouse. It is big and sleek, and features a very comfortable design so no matter how long you have to spend in front of your computer you will not get a sore hand.

It also offers a great response time and accuracy, and the only big downfall that consumers have complained about is that the middle button is a bit hard to press down on.

The best idea, if you want to get the best mouse for you, is head to your local electronics or computer store where you will be able to check out the different models firsthand. You may find one to be better suited for you than someone else does for themselves, so it is good to try out a few different options before deciding on any particular one.

The good news is that no matter which Bluetooth mouse you decide to go with, the most important thing is that you are going to get to take advantage of the Bluetooth technology which is really quite incredible and which has a lot to offer.

Especially if you work on a computer, it will be a wise investment to get yourself a Bluetooth mouse, which will be high quality and last you.

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Are you aware of what Bluetooth handsfree is? If not, you are really missing out, and the following information is what you will find very useful. First, before you can truly understand all the advantages that Bluetooth handsfree has to offer, you need to understand the actually Bluetooth technology itself and all that it has to offer.

Bluetooth Technology

The Bluetooth technology is renowned and truly incredible. Bluetooth wireless technology is a short-range communications technology that is intended to replace the cables connecting portable devices while maintaining high levels of security.

This means that you will never again have to worry about tripping over or losing any of your cables or wires, which makes all your tasks with your electronics much simpler.

Technically, Bluetooth is a specification for the use of low-power radio communications to wirelessly link phones, computers and other network devices over short distances. It has come quite far since its inception a few years ago, and is now renowned around the world. It seems as though everywhere you look, everyone is taking advantage of this super technology and using it to make their lives more efficient and convenient.

The majority of cell phones on the market today utilize the Bluetooth technology, and so if you are heading out to get a new phone or even if you were not considering it at all, you should definitely realize what Bluetooth has to offer you and start taking advantage of it in every way that you can.

Bluetooth Handsfree

The term Bluetooth handsfree basically refers to any Bluetooth-enabled phone that can be worn handsfree, or without you having to hold the phone up to your ear, in the simplest terms. This makes it as easy and convenient for you as possible to make and receive calls, which is particularly important for businesses and make sure that you profit as much as you can.

Find Your Phone

If you want to get a Bluetooth handsfree phone, of course you are going to want to ensure that you get the best Bluetooth cell phone for you. Make sure that any Bluetooth handsfree phone you are considering offers you all of the functions and features that you are interested in and also be aware of any return and refund policies as well as warranties so that you can really get the most of your money and know that you can always bring it back if you need to.

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Though you will find a wide variety of options open to you when it comes to choosing your Bluetooth wireless audio adapters you would do well to look at the one made by Sony as it has a number of advantages including that of being very compatible and also being easy to set up. It must however be added that this Bluetooth wireless audio from Sony is also rather expensive and it often only works with other products that bear the Sony name. However, if you are looking for an audio streaming solution then this Bluetooth wireless audio adapter is well worth a second look.

Audio Streaming From Bluetooth Enabled Audio Devices

The Sony TDM-BT1 is able to stream audio from your Bluetooth enabled audio device including your cell phone as well as computer and this in turn means that you will get to enjoy music on any pair of speakers that are compatible with Sony hi-fi systems. This Bluetooth wireless audio adapter from Sony is very easy to set up and it only requires that you plug your adapter to a Digital Media Port input jack.

In addition, you can also use your Sony TDM-BT1 Bluetooth wireless audio adapter to link with other Bluetooth devices that in turn support what is known as Advanced Audio Distribution Profile or A2DP. Another advantage to using this Bluetooth wireless audio is that it gives you more audio bandwidth as compared to earlier versions.

You only need to have an audio system that is compatible with Sony and you will also need to have a primary source (music) that is Bluetooth A2DP enabled for your Sony TDM-BT1 to deliver all that it promises to deliver ? which is easy as well as convenient streaming via Bluetooth. If you have about eighty dollars to spare then this Bluetooth wireless audio adapter could provide you with a lot of enjoyment; although this price tag is double that of the Belkin TuneStage 2 that also has the ability to connect to virtually every audio system including Sony and many other brands.

The current thinking amongst most users of communication devices is that products such as the Bluetooth wireless audio adapter and also Bluetooth headsets are actually going to rule the planet ? and are well on the way to doing so already. This, in spite of the fact that laws pertaining to driving are becoming stricter even though hands-free communication devices will leave you in a position to communicate and drive without needing to use your hands for anything but for driving

If you have to go for a good Bluetooth wireless audio adapter, then the Sony TDM-BT1 could be considered ? as long as you are willing to pay the extra cost.

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