Banish Seven Bad Tech Habits

You floss daily, rotate your tires regularly, file your taxes on time, and exercise at least twice a week. In other words, you have lots of good habits. But when it comes to technology, well, we need to talk. You know all the icons cluttering your desktop, and the passwords you keep in Notepad, and the half-baked backup you make once a month? Those are the results of bad habits–and they’re not the only ones. wd passport essential 250GB

Fortunately, it’s easier than you might think to correct bad tech behavior, to handle your computer with the same care and wisdom that you use in safeguarding for your gums.

Bad Habit #1: Creating Too Much Desktop Clutterwd passport essential 320GB

 

Stardock’s Fences helps you organize your desktop and (paradoxically) leaves you with more open range than you had before.Your Windows desktop looks like the inside of your junk drawer, with icons stretched from one end of the screen to the other. How can you find anything in that mess?

If you need a good way to organize everything, try Stardock’s Fences. This free utility corrals icons into semitransparent desktop pens, thereby reducing clutter and improving organization. Best of all, the first time you run it, Fences offers to sort and “fence” your icons automatically. It’s like having a maid swoop in and clean your desktop!

For the ultimate in desktop decluttering, double-click in any open area, and watch as Fences hides all of your icons–or leaves only a select few visible. Another double-click brings everything back. Now you can enjoy your pretty Windows wallpaper without having to sweep your icons into the Recycle Bin.

Bad Habit #2: Using the Power Button to Shut Down

When you’re done using your laptop, your impulse is to press the power button to shut it down, right? Not so fast: On many systems, the power button’s default function is to put the machine into Sleep mode. That’s not necessarily a bad thing: A “sleeping” PC resumes operation in a matter of seconds, which is quite handy; but it still constitutes a bad habit, for two reasons. wd passport essential 320GB blue

First, because Sleep mode is not the same as Off, your laptop will continue to consume battery power. So unless it’s connected to an AC outlet, you may return to a drained, dead PC–one that took any unsaved work with it when it gave up the ghost. Second, if you rely exclusively on Sleep mode, your PC rarely gets a chance to reboot–and rebooting is essential to keeping Windows running smoothly. wd passport essential 500GB blue

To banish this habit, simply change the function of your power button so that it actually shuts down the system.

(The only time you should press and hold the power button to turn off your PC is when the system is locked up and you have no other way of resetting it.) wd passport essential 640GB blue

Bad Habit #3: Storing Passwords in a Text File

LastPass keeps your passwords safe and organized in a secure undisclosed location.Oh, the irony: You come up with a hackproof password to use on your banking site, and then you store a copy of that password in an unprotected spreadsheet, Outlook note, or smartphone memo. Goodbye, protection. wd passport essential 250GB silver

You need a password manager–a heavily fortified database for important data such as passwords, PINs, and Social Security numbers. We’re partial to LastPass, which generates secure passwords, applies them when you visit various Web sites, organizes any and all private data you care to store, and also syncs across multiple platforms and devices so you have access to your passwords anytime, anywhere. Amazingly, LastPass is free, though you’ll have to upgrade to the Pro version (at a mere $1 per month) if you want the companion Android, BlackBerry, iPhone, Palm, and/or Windows Mobile apps. wd passport essential 320GB silver

Bad Habit #4: Using the Mouse to Launch Programs

Old habits–like reaching for the mouse every time you want to run a program–die hard. Here’s a little-known but much faster alternative: In Windows 7 (and Vista, if you enable the Quick Launch toolbar), you can launch any program to the right of the Start button by using the Windows key and a number. wd passport essential 500GB silver

For example, the icon in the taskbar that’s closest to the Start button (usually Internet Explorer) is linked to ’1′. By pressing Windows-1, you can launch that program directly from your keyboard. Pressing Windows-2 is like clicking the second icon, and so on. This method works for the first nine icons pinned to the Windows 7 taskbar (or to the Vista Quick Launch toolbar). Still running XP? Try Launchy, a terrific keyboard-powered launcher that lets you open programs, files, and even Web favorites with a few keystrokes. wd passport essential 640GB silver

Bad Habit #5: Carrying an Unencrypted Flash Drive

TrueCrypt keeps your data secure when you’ve loaded it onto a flash drive.Flash drives are great for transporting data, but they’re easy to lose, which could mean big trouble for your private data.You can correct this vulnerability (and overcome the bad habit of leaving yourself in jeopardy) by installing TrueCrypt, an open-source encryption utility that password-protects the data on your flash drive. wd passport essential 250GB red

TrueCrypt works on-the-fly, meaning that it encrypts and decrypts data as you access it. (The software also works with individual files and entire hard drives, in case your bad habit extends to your laptop.) If you don’t supply the correct password or encryption key, your data remains locked tight, thanks to a variety of very secure encryption algorithms. TrueCrypt is pretty easy to use and is totally transparent once it’s up and running; get started with this handy beginner’s tutorial. wd passport essential 320GB red

Bad Habit #6: Blindly Clicking ‘Next’ When Installing Software

Ever wonder by what means mysterious new icons appear on your desktop? Why unknown toolbars appear in your Web browser? How spyware manages to sneak onto your PC? One possibility: You gave them permission. wd passport essential 500GB red

If you’ve installed more than a handful of programs in your computing life, you’ve probably gotten in the habit of automatically clicking every ‘Next’ button an installer throws your way. Big mistake. During the setup process, some programs ask if you also want to install, say, trial versions of the company’s other programs, or maybe a new search tool for your browser. If you blindly click your way through the setup screens, approving things left and right, you’ll miss your chance to opt out of these offers–and you’ll end up with stuff you probably don’t want. wd passport essential 640GB red

So slow down, speedy. Take a few extra seconds to read the fine print, and avoid unwelcome surprises.

Bad Habit #7: Relying on a Single Backup Method

We’re not going to harangue you yet again about the importance of making backups. But making smart backups bears some haranguing. Most users who take the trouble to back up rely on a single method, and usually a sloppy one at that–namely, dragging the contents of their My Documents folder to a blank DVD, or running a backup program without knowing how to use it to restore files in the event of disaster. wd Passport Essential SE portable 750GB

You need is a diversified backup system that covers all of your bases, not just one or two. First, use an external hard drive to clone your primary drive, and pair it with software (like Casper 6.0) that will perform the operation regularly. Next, sign up for an online backup service (like Carbonite or Mozy) that automatically archives important data (documents, photos, financial records, and the like) in the background while you work. wd Passport Essential SE portable 1TB

Now it’s time to get more granular. Install Xmarks to synchronize your browser’s favorites (and passwords, if you like) to the Web and/or to another PC. Use Google’s free Google Calendar Sync utility to make an online backup of your Outlook calendar; or spend $15 on gSyncit 2.0 to sync Outlook’s contacts, calendars, and tasks to your Google account. Speaking of Google, a mere $5 per year buys you 20GB of online Picasa Web storage, enough to hold (and preserve) any modest family-photo collection. Bottom line: The more automated methods you use to back up your PC, the better off you’ll be. wd passport elite 500GB blue

 

 

 



By: hardwarezone

About the Author:

Create a video blog…instantly.

With the way in which the world has grown over the past decades there has been an increased demand for people who know how to repair electronics. This is key to the success of technology and has become important for many businesses and households.

As with everything, nothing lasts forever and after a while things will need repairing by somebody who knows what they are doing. 

This defeats the object a little of technology in a way because if people have to be involved in the technology then it stops the whole independence of the technology.

Which is obviously good in a way as it shows that people will always be needed no matter how advanced the world and technology becomes. 

Before you give away your money it is always best to do some good research to try and find a company who you are happy with and don’t feel will take you for a ride. This can be done a number of ways. You could ask friends and family if they know of any reputable companies who may be able to help you with your touch screen repair issues. Most companies who specialise in electronic repairs will also give you a quote for the services you require. This will allow you to compare with the price and work done by the company who worked with a relative or friend. 

There are only really a few companies who do this work, as you can imagine it is a highly skilled and specialist job. Therefore prices can sometimes be high, you just need to try and make sure that you are better off with getting something repaired instead of just buying a new one. 

As electronic repair is quite an advanced and specific profession it can be quite costly to get any work done by a specialist company. This is why it is so important to carry out some research and ensure you find a company who are good at what they do and won’t cost you a fortune.



By: Pippa Young

About the Author:

Caffeinated Content

Information Technology and the move to a computerized infrastructure model are bringing great changes to many industries. Often it is the CIO of the company who escort this fundamental shift in the business revenue stream. Leading others through modernization, revolutionize and transformation means you must be able to make changes yourself.

Forget about asking whether technology drives business or business drives technology. Stop perturbing about whether or not technology is strategic. Silence all the confusions about how advance this technology is to that technology. In technology, there are numerous questions that if you have to ask, you probably already know and don’t like the answer. A more satisfying line of inquiry is how much of your technological horsepower is actually being used to turn the wheels of innovation.

Some people says that Technology drives business modernization, novelty, success & Innovations that opens up new doors of opportunities, improves the company’s performance on the whole, sharpens the company’s market intelligence, and makes new things possible for the clients. Another school of thought is that the Business Drives Technology, as such integration is about assisting business to facilitate their profitability by utilizing technology and other resources available to the enterprise. But realistically speaking, the driving force comes from the CEO and CIO of the company, who both endeavor to leverage technology to its fullest potential.

In a society that has become entirely dependent on computers and immediate communications, technology is becoming the heartbeat in the process of office design as decisions on layout and services. Some aspects of technology, like the computer animation & communication, are highly visible demonstration devices. But more of it is in the largely unseen infrastructure, with the emphasis on sophisticated wiring and smart communication devices to provide for an ever greater flow, and on communications and power facilities to keep operations running through almost any anticipated calamity.

In the modernization of the today’s businesses, Common business drivers include; Mergers and Acquisitions, Internal Reorganizations, Application and System Consolidation, Inconsistent/Duplicated/Fragmented Data, New Business Strategies, Compliance with Government Regulations, Streamlining Business Processes. To achieve the success in the accommodation of these business drivers, the sturdy and smart input would be required from both the parties i.e. the business as well as the technology.

In a company, you could cover every surface in your office with how to manage change. But one aspect of change management that often dodges IT Managers is how to better influence corporate colleagues. If information technology drives business decisions, the IT executives must communicate and be persuasive with other department heads on key project management issues.

Strategic planning for Information Technology is one component of an overall company vision for success. This psychoanalysis facilitates IT professionals to successfully define short and long-term goals and ascertain the resources necessary to apprehend such goals. To ensure success, the strategic plan should be developed in a thorough but rapid manner, consist of a brief, succinct compilation of analyzed data, and provide opportunities by which additional planning and analysis can occur.

Several important benefits occur as the result of a successful strategic IT plan. First, employees are provided with an understanding of how their role fits in with the overall company structure. Also, this planning allows managers to realize additional opportunities for growth and success. Finally, important relationships between technology investment and positive outcomes, such as increased market share, are revealed.

It’s now become the industry dilemma that IT people need to know more about business. They need to understand the disciplines and the lingo of business process management, business performance management, customer relationship management, supply chain management, financial management, human resources management, operations management, etc. Lacking that knowledge, communication with business people and understanding of business requirements will forever be troubled.

On the other hand the Business people should also drive their efforts to know more about information technology. As with all communication and relationship issues, this is not a prejudiced problem. Just as IT people need to become more business-oriented, business people need to be more IT-oriented. They need to understand the roles and relationships among the many different kinds of technology upon which their information systems depend, and they need to understand the dependencies among those technologies. Business people need to have a working knowledge of the technology stack as it affects their capability to get information, perform business analysis, and make informed business decisions.

Beyond the relatively straight-forward needs of business becoming IT-oriented and technologists becoming business-oriented, there lies a new challenge. We must develop common understanding and shared perspective of value, an issue that is both a business concern and a technology consideration. When business and IT have different meaning and outlook for value, conflicts are certain to arise.

Business and IT organizations often have two evidently different perspectives of value. IT expert generally take a data-to-value approach. Where Data produces information, information enhances knowledge, knowledge drives action, action produces outcomes, and favorable outcomes deliver value. Business management typically uses a goals-to-value system. Business drivers and goals determine strategies, strategies drive tactics, which in turn produce results, and positive results produce value.

Effective business/IT relationships are ultimately a question of alignment. New IT skills, new business skills, and new perspectives that sets the stage for business/IT alignment. But it doesn’t assure alignment. To achieve genuine association there are several things that must be done; some by IT, some by the business, and some collectively.

Conflicts between business and IT organizations have existed from the very beginning of automated Information Systems. We have accelerated in so many ways both in business and in technology. However, the problem still pestilences most of the businesses. The Business/IT crack must go away. The cost is high; the value is null; and the barriers that it crafts grow bigger each moment. The problem can be fixed, and the time to fix it is now!



By: Pervaiz Pyar Ali

About the Author:

Create a video blog

Having some trouble repairing SMPS?

Look, don’t worry. See, I have prepared a few SMPS repair tips that might be of some use to you…

You know, I’ve had my share of frustration troubleshooting and fixing switch mode power supplies. Their circuit designs are a headache to deal with, unlike linear power supplies which are simpler and thus easier to fix.

Anyway, I’ve gotten used to them. It took a while but I’m all good now, thankfully. So if you really need some useful SMPS repair tips, then let’s boogey now!

Tip 1 – The Easiest Solution…

The easiest solution is to get a really, really good guide on how to troubleshoot and repair SMPS. I know this sounds obvious, but fact of the matter is decent SMPS repair guides are very difficult to find.

Most are extremely complex, without step by detailed step instructions and photos. Therefore, you need to find a repair guide that’s crammed full of easy to follow instructions, photos and diagrams.

You’ll learn a lot quicker by using this kind of reference guide. Fortunately, there is such a guide which can be downloaded to your computer. You can check it out thru this link: SMPS Repairing Tips Action Manual

Tip 2 – The Analyzation Solution…

When you have a faulty SMPS unit lying on your repair table, the first thing you should do is examine the circuit design as much as possible. You have to analyze it carefully…

Doing so ensures that the possible reasons for malfunctioning can be detected quickly. Once you’ve ascertained which section of the SMPS is causing the problems, then the job is already half done!

And then you may pour all your energy and effort into fixing that problematic section. There is no need to waste time testing other sections that are actually functioning properly!

Tip 3 – The Electrolytics Solution…

Listen, I done quite a lot of SMPS repairing jobs lately and in MANY cases, the problem lies with the electrolytic output capacitors. They break down rather easily so checking them should be one of your first priorities. Thankfully they are super easy to replace.

Don’t worry about it…As I said earlier, the easiest solution is to do the fixing work with the assistance of an easy to follow, photo instruction guide packed with practical SMPS repair tips..If you follow the steps carefully, you can learn how fix switch mode power supply within a week.

Go right now to http://www.smpsrepair.info for download information.



By: Jerry Gazila

About the Author:

Caffeinated Content

Connecting your computer to an overhead projector will enhance the multimedia potential of your PC, as it will now be equipped to make large-scale presentations, along with displaying movies and games on the “big screen.”

Your computer is already designed to accept and recognize a projector connection, so the setup process will be fairly easy. All you will need to do is perform some basic tweaking to ensure that the image is optimally displayed.USB To DVI VGA Dual Multi-display Adapter Video 1920×1200(USB Graphic Adapter Display USB2.0 to VGA DVI HDMI 1080 )

Search for an overhead projector that has either a DVI (digital visual interface) or VGA (video graphics array) connection, as these are the most likely types of output connections present on your computer’s video card. Look in your computer’s instruction manual to determine whether your machine prefers the VGA or DVI standard.

Use a DVI-to-VGA adapter where necessary–for example, where the projector uses a VGA cable and connection but your computer will only accept a DVI connection.

Connect the projector directly to your computer’s video card (where you would normally plug in the monitor) using the required cable included with your projector, either VGA or DVI.

Turn on the computer–your PC will automatically detect the projector as the output device and will begin displaying the images onscreen.ES-IP608IRW Wireless Waterproof IP Camera

Adjust the resolution by right clicking on the desktop, then selecting “Properties” and moving the resolution slider to the projector’s “native resolution,” which can be found by looking in the manual for your specific model.

USB 2.0 8 Multi-Monitor Display DVI+HDMI+VGA Adapter 2048×1152(USB 2.0 To VGA/DVI/HDMI Multi-Display Adapter )



By: papatek

About the Author:

Caffeinated Content

With a range of hand held GPS devices and a line of marine electronics that carry their tradition of navigation assistance to the marine market, Garmin is a name that is widely associated with GPS systems. They start at $129.99 and go up to $599.99. For faster map drawing and panning, Garmin also makes several chart plotters with QVGA color displays with high speed design. The chart plotters cost from $499.99 to $999.99. Along with Chart plotters and GPS navigation systems, Garmin also makes VHF marine radios with features that make them an easy fit to your marine safety package. The Garmin VHF 100 has up to 25 watts of power so that you can make contact regardless of where you are on the water. Class D Digital Selective Calling (DSC) capability, is a feature of the VHF 100 that can transmit distress calls with a click of a button. Boats that have a compatible GPS plotter can use the VHF 100 as a mayday signaling devise which will broadcast the boats location. This radio also has NOAA weather alerts and position tracking that lets you track your friends who are out on their boats in your area. Garmin also makes the VHF 200, VHF 300, and VHF 300 AIS. The 300 AIS is designed for 35 foot or larger boats and monitors all AIS (automatic identification system) channels at the same time, ensuring you don’t miss a transmission. The AIS 600 transceiver is also available. It is a devise that gives you the ability to transmit and receive vessel information to and from other AIS receivers in your area. The GPH 10, an easy to use autopilot system, is the first in a line of auto guided navigation by Garmin. This devise has patented Shadow Drive technology that permits the skipper to maintain control when relying on the autopilot system. It automatically disengages if the helm is turned, so that the helmsman can then maneuver the boat. It automatically re-engages if the helmsman holds a steady course.

]]> http://www.electrotechdata.com/2011/09/16/garmin-marine-electronics/feed/ 0 http://www.electrotechdata.com/2011/09/14/repair-smps-%e2%80%93-learn-how-to-repair-switch-mode-power-supplies-like-the-pros/ http://www.electrotechdata.com/2011/09/14/repair-smps-%e2%80%93-learn-how-to-repair-switch-mode-power-supplies-like-the-pros/#comments Wed, 14 Sep 2011 05:24:32 +0000 admin http://zoodlehost2.com/electrotechdata/2011/09/14/repair-smps-%e2%80%93-learn-how-to-repair-switch-mode-power-supplies-like-the-pros/

If you want learn how to repair smps like the pros, let me offer some tips that can help you out immensely…

See, I’ve fixed a fair share of linear power supplies. They were pretty easy to fix but switch mode power supplies?

Well, to be honest…I had quite a hard time troubleshooting my first smps case. At the time, I had no prior experience fixing a smps and I found the circuit design to be rather complex.

Smps circuit design is so much different than the linear ones! Anyway, I managed to track down a downloadable manual on how to troubleshoot and repair smps so that made things a lot easier for me.

Now I can pretty much fix all types of switch mode power supply.

By the way, you can visit this site for more details on that repair manual: http:// smpsrepair.info (a new window will open)

Now, if you’re ready to repair smps like the pros, then take note of these tips:

Tip 1: Learn how to read schematic diagram and understand the function of each component a.s.a.p! Knowing these will help you better isolate the possible causes of failure, therefore allowing you to complete the repairing process in an efficient manner.

Tip 2: Most smps problems are down to faulty filter capacitors, blown fuse etc. One of the things that you should check is decayed glue covering the fragile components.

This is a very common problem and can be solved by removing decayed glue from the components in a layer-by-layer fashion. Do it carefully to avoid damaging the components.

Tip 3: Should you encounter a problem that requires soldering, ensure you use a low watt soldering iron with very fine tip for small components.

For bigger components, use a higher watt soldering iron – maybe get a mini soldering gun to make things easier.

Listen, the best way to repair smps problems (if you have minimal experience) is to follow clearly explained instructions that helps you every step of the way.

Refer this photo based instructional manual. Follow the steps so you’ll quickly learn how to fix all kinds of switch mode power supply.

Follow the link below to obtain download details for this instructional manual: http://www.smpsrepair.info/



By: Jerry Gazila

About the Author:

Kansieo.com

Introduction

Due to globalization of the economy, emergency of information technology, growth of the Internet and other communication network, growing diversity of business transactions and increased competition, companies are changing the way they communicate with new processes that sharpen business performance. The Internet is becoming the foundation for new business models, process and new ways of knowledge distribution (Laudon K.C and J.P. Laudon, 2000).

                Small-scale enterprises now use the Internet and networking technology to conduct more of their work electronically, reliable linking factories, offices and sales forces around the globe (Dave C. 2000). This communication evolution is governed by applied infrastructures with converged services and integrated application (Lucas H.C and B. Jack, 1994). The convergence of information technology is an important trend influencing both current and future markets, industry and technology (James, A.O, 2004). Companies such as the shops, banks and institution interviewed, are extending these networks to suppliers, customers and other groups outside the organization to enable them respond instantly to customer demands and market shifts.

Undoubtedly, information technology is bringing about changes in organization that make firms even more dependent than in the past when it depends solely on the knowledge, learning and decision making of individual employees. Besides, customer service, operation, products and marketing strategies, and distribution are heavily dependent on information technology (Brain K and C. Stacey, 2001).

This research work examines the impact of information technology on the economics of small-scale business enterprises. This is to ascertain the level at which information technology has transformed business processes for specific and applications; efficient business management, crime rate reduction, job creation and improved security of information systems. This will help make available the right kind of information at the right time place for optimum utilization of available resources to enhance the quality of life in the human society.

 

Material and Method: In the study, a statistical approach was adopted. Responses from the various business/institutions; shops, factories, eatery, markets, banks, fuel station, bakery, schools, cyber cafe, hospital, poultry, boutique, salon, phone call centers, guest houses and sport centers via the questionnaire in some selected cities in Nigeria for over 11 months in 2008 were technically examined and conclusion drawn in line with the hypothesis formulated.

 

Theoretical Background

The discipline of information theory came into focus with Claude E. Shannon’s classical paper, “A mathematical theory of communication” in 1948. This theory deals with the amount of information and does not handle the meaning of information. Similarly, the theory failed to provide necessary help in the design of an information system. As a result, the initial interest on information theory declined. However, the discipline starts to gain widespread acceptance only in the last few years. This is attributed to the fact that information technology now provides the support necessary to build an information system that serves best for some specific and application (David M.K, 1992).

                Information technology, as defined by the Information Technology Association of America (ITAA), is the study, design, development, implementation, support or management of computer based information systems, particularly software applications and computer hardware. Basically, information technology deals with the use of electronic computers and computer software to convert, store, protect, process, transmit and securely retrieve information. Examples of information technology include; personal digital assistant, personal computers, telephones, televisions etc (Brain K.C and C.S. Stacey, 2001).

                Today, the terms information technology has ballooned to encompass many aspects of computing and technology, and the term is more recognizable than ever before. The end objective is to make the effective and efficient use of information to resolve uncertainly and enhance productivity at each level; individual, society and government (Charlse W.L.H, 2001). On this theoretical background is the hypothesis formulated.

                Hypothesis: Two types of hypothesis were formulated in this study; Null hypothesis (Ho) and Alternatively hypothesis (H1).

Null Hypothesis: Information Technology does not have positive impact on small-scale business enterprise.

Alternatively hypothesis: Information technology has positive impact on small-scale business enterprises.

Decision Rule: When the observed chi-square (X2) is greater than the critical chi-square (X2) from tables of chi-square, Hi is accepted and Ho is rejected and vice versa. This decision is similar to (Salami A and A.O. Usman, 2008).

 

Data Analysis and Interpretation of Results

The data from this research were analyzed and results interpreted in line with the research questions;

 

Research Question 1: Does the Introduction of Information Technology have impact on small-scale business enterprises?

 

Table 1: Impact of Information Technology on Business Growth and Income Flow

S/N

ITEMS

Strongly

Agree

Agree

Disagree

Strongly

Disagree

Row

Total

1.

Information technology has improved the standard of small-scale business enterprise

120

(73)

92

(72)

28

(48)

16

(62)

256

2.

Every unit of a business has benefited from Information Technology

70

(55)

80

(53)

17

(36)

23

(46)

190

3.

Information Technology is of no positive Impact to small-scale business enterprises

12

(80)

15

(79)

103

(53)

150

(68)

280

4.

Information Technology has attracted more customers to all business enterprises

65

(42)

67

(41)

10

(28)

5

(36)

147

5.

Information Technology is meant for larger scale business enterprises and not for small-scale business enterprises.

20

(36)

27

(36)

30

(24)

50

(31)

127

 

Column Total

287

281

188

244

1000

*Observed X2 = 463.3, critical X2 = 21.026, µ =0.05, df =12.

From Table 1, the expected frequencies in brackets are calculated using the formula (Egbule J.F and D.O. Okobia, 2007).

               

E  =  Row total x column total ————————– (1)

                     Grand Total

 

Where, E = expected Frequency and Grand Total = 1000

 

 

ROW I

For observed frequency = 126, using equation (1);

 

For observed frequency = 92,

 

For observed frequency  = 28,

 

For observed frequency = 16,

 

ROW II

 

For observed frequency = 70,

 

For observed frequency  = 80,

 

For observed frequency = 17,

 

For observed frequency = 23,

 

ROW III

 

For observed frequency = 12,

 

For observed frequency = 15,

 

 

For observed frequency = 103,

 

For observed frequency = 150,

 

 

ROW IV

 

For observed frequency = 65,

 

For observed frequency = 67,

 

For observed frequency = 10,

 

For observed frequency = 5,

 

 

ROW V

 

For observed frequency = 20,

 

For observed frequency = 27,

 

For observed frequency = 30,

 

For observed frequency = 50,

 

Applying the chi-square (X2) statistic as presented in (Omorogiuwa, 2006);

……………………………..(2)

 

Where, O = observed frequency and

                 E = expected frequency

 

By substituting into equation (2) above;

 

 

 

 

The degree of freedom is given by

df = (r-1) (c –1) …………………………….(3)

 

Where,                   r = Number of Rows and

                                 c = Number of Columns

 

From table 1, r = 5, and c = 4. \ df = (5-1) (4-1) = 12

Critical value of chi-square X2 = 21.026 (from tables) at a testing value µ = 0.05

 

These results shows that the observed chi-square X2=463.2 (from calculation), is greater than the critical value of chi-square X2=21.026 (from tables), at a testing value of µ =0.05 and degree of freedom df = 12. This indicates a significant relationship and it implies that information technology has a positive impact on business growth and generally increases income flow.

 

Research Question 2: Does the introduction of Information Technology in small-scale

         business enterprises provide more job opportunities for  

                                      unemployed Nigerians?

 

Table 2: Job opportunities using Information Technology

S/N

ITEMS

Strongly

Agree

Agree

Disagree

Strongly

Disagree

Row

Total

1.

Information technology has provided a source of income to many young school leavers

201

(149)

152

(119)

35

(78)

29

(77)

417

2.

Information Technology provide holidays jobs for many students

116

(107)

101

(86)

39

(52)

44

(56)

300

3.

Drastic Reduction of mass unemployment since the application of Information technology in business.

40

(101)

33

(81)

98

(49)

112

(52)

283

 

Column Total

357

286

172

185

1000

*Observed chi-square X2 = 273.6, critical X2=12.592, df = 6, µ = 0.05.

 

                The results of table 2, show that Null hypothesis (Ho) is rejected and alternatively hypothesis (Hi) is accepted. The observed value of chi-square X2 equal 273.6 (from calculation not shown for convenience), is greater than the critical value of chi-square X2 = 12.592 (from tables), at a degree of freedom df = 6, using a testing value µ= 0.05. This indicates a significant relationship implying that the introduction of information technology in business provides more job vacancies for unemployed Nigerians.

 

 

Research Question 3: Of what relative impact is the introduction of Information

  Technology in efficient business management?

 

 

Table 3: Information Technology in efficient business management

S/N

ITEMS

Strongly

Agree

Agree

Disagree

Strongly

Disagree

Row

Total

1.

Information technology enhance proper planning and execution of business strategies

102

(90)

96

(92)

17

(28)

30

(35)

245

2.

Information technology helps to improve on the skills of business-men

90

(71)

90

(72)

6

(22)

7

(28)

193

3.

Business-men are now more time conscious with the advent of information technology

78

(74)

87

(75)

15

(23)

21

(29)

201

4.

Information Technology discourages unwarranted journey.

97

(132)

102

(135)

76

(41)

86

(52)

361

 

Column Total

367

375

114

144

1000

*Observed chi-square X2 = 120.4, critical X2 = 16.919, df = 9, µ = 0.05

 

                The results show that the null hypothesis (Ho) is rejected while the alternatively hypothesis (H1) is accepted. The observed chi-square X2 = 120.4 is greater than the critical value of chi-square X2 = 16.919 [from tables], at a degree of freedom df = 9, using a testing value of µ = 0.05. This indicates a significant relationship, which implies that the introduction of information technology helps in efficient business management.

 

 

Research Question 4: Has the introduction of information technology reduced the rate of

 Fraudulent activities in business?

 

Table 4: Information technology to fight business fraud

S/N

ITEMS

Strongly

Agree

Agree

Disagree

Strongly

Disagree

Row

Total

1.

Information technology is a weapon for combating fraudulent activities in business

76

(58)

90

(54)

18

(42)

25

(55)

209

2.

Information technology encourages dishonesty in business

39

(78)

45

(72)

17

(57)

112

(75)

283

3.

Only the rich can effectively utilize information technology to fight crime

25

(66)

32

(61)

86

(49)

97

(64)

240

4.

The use of information technology assist in reporting fraudsters to law enforcement agencies

136

(74)

89

(69)

12

(54)

31

(71)

268

 

Column Total

276

256

203

265

1000

*Observed chi-square X2 = 320.5, critical chi-square X2 =16.919. df = 9; µ = 0.05

 

The results show that alternatively hypothesis (H1) is accepted and the Null hypothesis is rejected. The observed chi-square (x2=320.5) is greater than the critical value of chi-square (x2 = 16.919 from tables) at a degree of freedom df = 16 using µ = 0.05. This indicates a significant relationship, which implies that information technology has reduced the rate of fraudulent activities in business.

 

Discussion

The findings of this study provide useful answers to the research questions. On the impact of information technology resources on business growth, general income flow and job creation, results of the study show that a majority of small-scale enterprises have immensely benefited in these areas. It was obvious that some of the respondents engage in retailing of GSM materials and other information technology resources, alongside their goods and services. This invariably, contributes to business growth, general flow of income and provision of jobs for the unemployed.

                On the impact of information technology on business and efficient time management, some respondents generally agreed as seen in Tables 1 to 4 using the alternative hypothesis method that it was positive. However, it was discovered that inspite of the use of information technology for business promotions, most business men still lack efficiency in service delivery. This may be attributed to poor business skills or inadequate background. It is therefore not surprising that positive changes in business management are still not achieved. However, it could be hoped that modern information technology will help to sharpen the sense of business and time management skills.

 

Conclusion and Recommendation

In conclusion, information technology has improved small-scale business enterprises in Nigeria. In order to consolidate on the present level of achievement of information technology in business, much more improvement must be welcomed. These include; improvement in the level of information technology services rendered to business enterprises, wide coverage (especially in the rural areas), reduction in tariff and better connectivity.

In line with the research findings, it is recommended that information technology service providers should intensify effort to make maximum use of the high penetration by business enterprises. This invariably, will help to enlighten the populace on the benefits attached to the applications of information technology.

                The tariff of all the service providers is too high. Consequently, this reduces the number of users that go online for Internet marketing. In order to reverse this trend, it is recommended that the charge deducted by the service providers should be reduced to encourage more small-scale business enterprises in Nigeria.

 

References

 

Brain K. W and Stacey C. S (2001): Using Information Technology: A practical Introduction to computers and communications, 4th Edition, Mc Graw-Hill Companies Inc, New York, USA. Pp 78-94.

 

Charlse W.L.H (2001): Global Business, 2nd Edition; McGraw Hill Companies, New York. Pp 100-132

 

Dave C etal, (2000): Internet Marketing strategy, Implementation and practice, pearson Education Limited, England.

 

David M. K (1992); Management Information Systems, 2nd Edition, Mc Grow Hill companies inc, USA.

 

Egbule J.F and Okobia D.O (2007): Research methods in Education for Colleges and Universities, Kmensuo Educational Publishers, Agbor. Chapter 3.

 

James A. O.B (2004): Management Information Systems: Managing Information technology in the Business enterprises, 6th Edition, McGraw Hill Companies Inc, New York USA. Chapter 5 & 6.

 

Laudon K.C and. Laudon J.P (2000): Management Information Systems: Organization and Technology in the Networked enterprises, 6th Edition Prentice – Hall, Inc, USA.

 

Lucas H. C and Jack B (1994): “The role of Information Technology in organization design”. Journal of management information systems 10. No. 4. pp 56-89.

 

Omorogiuwa O.K. (2006): Research and Applied statistics for the behavioural sciences: An introduction. Mindex Publishing Company Limited; Benin City. Pp 43-48

 

Salami A.O. and Usman O.A. (2008): The socio-economic impacts of global system for mobile communication (GSM) a university students, Journal of Economic Theory 2 (2): 63 – 70.

 



By: francis Anyasi

About the Author:

Caffeinated Content

The most popular HDTVs today are LCD TVs, which are far outselling Plasma TVs. LCD TVs use less electricity and are lighter than Plasma TVs. Plasma TVs have some advantages, such as high contrast ratios, viewing angles, and are suitable for fast moving action. Over the years, the LCD TVs refresh rate has narrowed the gap with Plasma TVs, and contrast ratios have vastly improved. LCD TVs are brighter and better suited to well lit rooms. A new type of LCD TV is sometimes called an LED TV.

LCD Backlights – There are three types of backlights for LCD TVs. The backlight is located in the back of the TV and illuminates the screen. The backlight can effect the colors, contrast, and brightness of your TV.

[1] Fluorescent Backlight – The most common backlight is a fluorescent backlit screen (using the same technology as the fluorescent light bulbs in most kitchens). These are in most LCD TVs. These backlights can give outstanding images and contrast in top rated sets. Some manufacturers of high end sets have fluorescent backlights that can give you enhanced colors compared to regular ones.

[2] Edge Lit LED Backlight – LED backlights use LED lights (light emitting diodes) which use the same type of technology as the keychain LED lights, only more advanced and powerful. Edge lit lights the back of the set similarly to how fluorescent bulbs do (illuminating the entire backlight at all times). More expensive than fluorescent. You gain more contrast, colors, and energy savings up to 40% over conventional backlights.

[3] Local Dimming LED Backlight – This is the latest backlight technology. Local Dimming puts LED lights directly behind your LCD screen, where they can dim or turn off for the best contrast available. These are more expensive than edge lit, but can offer greater contrast and better picture. Both types of LED TVs are very thin (as thin as 1.2 inches) and suitable for mounting on a wall. As prices come down, LED will become the dominant backlight for HDTVs.

AntiBlur Technology – The other major LCD technology is called antiblur technology. The technology is called 120Hz and 240Hz. Most HDTVs sold up to this point have been 60Hz models. Hz stands for Hertz (which refers to cycles per second). By speeding up the Hertz rate, These TVs can insert more frames into the picture, which can reduce blur that can occur on LCD TVs. This is great for action movies and sports. This can also improve the viewing of motion picture films that were filmed at 24 frames per second by reducing judder (TVs display at a higher framerate than film).

Another type of technology for LCD is 1080p. The term 1080p signifies the full resolution possible today in high definition (2 million pixels at 1920×1080 resolution). Most sets sold up to this point were 720p which is half the resolution of 1080p (1 million pixels). Most small sets use this resolution since it would be hard to tell the difference on such a small set. Today, most sets sold are 1080p sets which are also the full resolution of Blu-ray discs.

The most popular brand of LCD TV is Samsung. This is followed by Sony, LG, and Sharp. We have found that picking a brand name TV instead of a no-name or second tier brand may be the best bet. Name brand TVs have better warranties, generally have better image processors (which helps to upconvert standard definition programs), and better contrast and quality control.

Whatever TV you choose, read the consumer reviews of these sets and determine what size would be suitable for your needs.



By: Allen Roberts

About the Author:

Caffeinated Content – Members-Only Content for WordPress

With the 2008 international consumer electronics unlimited convention days away in Berlin, we take a look at the cutting edge in the world of cameras. It is believed that the focus will be on the developments in HD technology and Phillips have already announced the unveiling of their 38mm screen, however other manufacturers are expected to have some counter measures up their sleeves. The coup of digital technology has been felt around many markets and non more so than that of photography.

In both the domestic and commercial markets digital still and video technology had dominated, with the latest developments in HD filming actually replacing 35mm film at top levels of production. Digital has made home video production and post-production more accessible and the Oregon ATC2K camera is an example of this. It has been specially designed to make filming in adverse conditions easier. It is a strange looking camera and has ok picture quality, however the weight of the head and sound quality are pretty dire. It is ideal if you are looking to record action scenes that will be paired with music in editing, also it can be found for under 100GBP online.

Not so outdoorsy is the Casio Exilim Card EX-S10 digital camera. This belongs more in the tiny handbag of a young lady of a night out as opposed to rocketing off-piste with the Oregon strapped to your shoulder. It is thin, sleek and easy to use with a large live view screen and excellent home video options including a YouTube video feature. The down side to this Kate Moss of the digital camera world is that it is mostly automated and has very few manual settings. It has good ISO image quality but a low powered flash unit and is quite pricy at 220GBP.

Adobe Lightroom is literally fresh off the press. It is the latest version of the photo editing software and is still being tweaked by Adobe as we speak. The sneak preview shows that the photo categorising has improved vastly and as any photographer or editor will tell you, a large part of the post-production process is done before you enter the editing suite in the labelling of your rushes. This has been addressed as there are better options when downloading your photos however it is still too new to get an all round picture of the features and capabilities.

Digital technology is more accessible than ever and the Oregon action cam epitomises this, a weather proof digital camera with great picture quality for under 100GBP.



By: Dominic Donaldson

About the Author:

Kansieo.com