Top 5 Best External Hard Drives

Your data files, be it pictures, videos, important documents, research materials, music, are very important. Losing any of them through accidental deletion or data corruption is not an option. Unfortunately, computers tend to crash. That's why it is a must to always backup your important data. Backing up is a computer's equivalent to insurance. It is probably the most important task you need to undertake as a responsible computer user. To back up is to copy and archive files so they can be used to restore the original after the data is lost or to restore them from an earlier version. Therefore, it is very important to consider the hard drive you will use to store your backup files.

If you are looking at using an external hard drive, you have the option to use a desktop external hard drive or a portable external hard drive. A desktop hard drive is recommended if it will only sit on your desk all the time and will never budge. It has a faster read and write speeds and you can get more storage for less money compared to the portable one. The only down side for this is it is bigger compared to the portable version and it requires an additional power adapter. A portable external hard drive is recommended for someone who is always on the go since you can bring it wherever you are. It is usually much smaller and lighter than their desktop counterparts. However, it is pricier since you will be paying more per terabyte and will be sacrificing some read and write speed, which results to longer waits for file transfers. According to thewirecutter.com, the most important features for a portable external hard drive are reliability, build quality, size, and weight, followed closely by speed, warranty, customer service, and capacity.

Here are the top 5 external hard drives you can consider:

Top 5 Best External Hard Drives of 2014

1. Seagate Backup Plus Slim

The Seagate Backup Plus Slim is the thinnest and one of the fastest portable external hard drive to date. According to thewirecutter.com, the hard drive's plastic case is very sturdy and does not flex or creak under pressure. It is very light and compact weighing only 0.33 pounds and is 0.48 inches thick, 4.47 inches long, and 2.99 inches wide. In addition, the Seagate Dashboard Software is very user friendly. It also allows you to customize your backup settings and create a continuous backup with its default settings. There is also a Seagate app available for iOS and Android users, which allows you to back up your contacts, messages, photos, videos, and other data from your smartphone to your hard drive thru either a Wi-Fi connection or your phone’s data connection. Furthermore, it supports backup from a PC and a Mac, mobile devices, and your data from your social media accounts.

2. Seagate Backup Plus Desktop

The Seagate Backup Plus Desktop is one of the first to offer up to 5TB of storage space. Like any other desktop external hard drives, it requires a separate power adapter and is ideal for home use. It is very fast, running at 200MBps and it also comes with the Seagate Dashboard Software.

3. Seagate Backup Plus Fast

The Seagate Backup Plus Fast doubles the capacity, physical thickness, and performance of the Seagate Backup Plus Slim. It is the only portable hard drive on the market that offers up to 4TB of storage space. It is very fast, running at more than 200MBps. It uses two internal hard drives (2TB each) on the inside in a RAID 0 configuration. Since RAID 0 configuration is prone to data loss, it is recommended to only use this drive for backup. Also, since there are two internal hard drives that can fail, the whole portable unit dies if one of the two drives fails. It’s also nearly twice as thick as the Seagate Backup Plus Slim and it is heavier. Furthermore, it also comes with the Seagate Dashboard Software, same with all the other Seagate external drives.

4. WD My Passport Slim

The WD My Passport Slim is a USB 3.0 portable drive with a speed of more than 100MBps. It is very compact and sturdy with its rugged, aluminum casing. It weighs 0.35 pounds and is 0.7 inches thick, 4.33 inches long, and 3.14 inches wide. It comes with a WD SmartWare backup software that allows you to back up your data automatically and also allows you to save versions of your files in order to protect them from accidental editing. Moreover, it has a security feature that allows you to add a password to protect your data from prying eyes.

5. WD My Passport Ultra

The WD My Passport Ultra is very similar to the WD My Passport Slim, but it is 10Mbps faster. It is slightly larger compared to the slim version and it comes in four different colors (titanium, red, blue, and black). It weighs 0.56 pounds and is 0.5 inches thick, 4.34 inches long, and 3.21 inches wide. It also shares the same WD SmartWare backup software and security feature as the WD My Passport Slim.

Most Common Causes of Computer Failure

There are thousands of problems that your PC will eventually encounter, from an endless list of possible error messages to various hardware failures. Most of these problems may have several possible causes as well.

Luckily, majority of these potential issues are rare. The problems most computer users see are common causes and errors only, which can also be seen by others.

This could spell good news because it means that there’s a great chance that the problem you're experiencing already has a solution at hand. However, if things get complicated, you may need to contact a tech support company for further assistance.

Computer Won't Turn On

Finding that your PC won't boot up is a very common problem. Whether you mean that the computer is completely dead or it powers on, but nothing happens, the result is the same -- you can’t use your computer at all. It’s a scary situation. For starters, try to see if you plugged the power cord into the outlet (no kidding, tech support companies get a lot of frantic calls from users who simply forgot to plug their computer). Also, try to see if the connectors inside have been loosened or dislodged.

Blue Screen of Death (BSoD)

There’s a good chance you've heard of or seen the Blue Screen of Death. It’s that all-blue screen with the computer code all over it that comes up as your computer is slowly dying. It’s actually caused by a STOP Error, which comes in many different kinds. STOP 0x0000008E and STOP 0x0000007B are two of the most common Blue Screen of Death errors.

“404” or “Page Not Found” Error

A 404 error means that whatever page you’re trying to reach on the Internet isn't there. Usually, this means that you didn't type the correct address in the browser or that the link you used to try to access the page was wrong. Check your Internet connection as well.

“Hal.dll is Missing” Error

Error messages about missing DLL files are unfortunately very common but the “Hal.dll is Missing” error is one of the more common and frustrating ones. There are a lot of possible causes for this problem, which means there are several troubleshooting steps you’ll need to follow to cover all your bases.

Applications Run Slowly

There are several reasons for software to run at turtle speed. You may have computer problems that involve your operating system or an application, your operating system might be missing updates, or your computer doesn't have enough hard drive space. If you don’t have enough hard drive space, you can scan, clean, and optimize your hard drive to avoid this problem from reoccurring.

Workarounds to Some Common iPad Air Problems

We can safely say that the iPad Air is the best 10-inch tablet in the market today. But as the saying goes -- nobody, or for this matter, nothing is perfect. Every new product has its bugs here and there, and below are some of the most common iPad Air problems reportedly encountered and their potential solutions.

Issue #1: Freezing, crashing, and rebooting

There have been reports where users have encountered frequent freezing issues, and crashing to the Home screen or to a black screen. Some have encountered random reboots to the Apple logo, which happens in an app or while closing an app at no particular reason. When the iPad Air freezes or crashes, the Home button and touchscreen becomes unresponsive. Here's what you can try to fix this problem:

Workaround:

Try resetting your iPad by holding down the Sleep/Wake button and the Home button simultaneously for about 10 seconds until you see the Apple logo. That should make it work, for now. However, there's still a chance that the freezing/crashing issue may happen again some time later.

Possible Fixes:

·         Make sure that your device is not lacking memory by going to Settings, then tapping General, and then Usage to close any running app that you don't need. You may also want to consider uninstalling any app that you don't want to use anymore.

·         Regularly close running applications properly by tapping the Home button twice, and then swiping up the applications that you want to close.

·         Try resetting your iPad's settings by going to Settings, then tapping General, then Reset, and then tap Reset all settings.

·         Try uninstalling your apps one by one to find out which app is causing the freezing or crashing problem. You can also perform a backup and the reset your device back to factory settings, and then selectively reinstall the apps. To do this, perform a backup, then go to Settings, then tap General, go to Reset, then tap Erase All Content and Settings, and then tap Erase.

·         If you're using a Bluetooth keyboard or other accessories, try not to use it for a while and see if the freezing/crashing/rebooting problem stops. If you determined that your Bluetooth device is causing the problem, contact the manufacturer and try to ask for a fix.

·         If you have performed a factory reset and don't restore from a backup but the problem still persists, take your iPad Air back to Apple and ask for a replacement.

·         Try check for any software update by going to Settings, tapping General, and then Software Update.

Issue #2: Overheating

Packing big batteries into small spaces, maximizing its processors capacity can definitely make a device to overheat. When it comes to this matter, Apple actually has a superb record. The iPad normally gets hot if you use it a lot, but if it becomes too hot, you'll see a temperature warning on the screen and it will automatically shut itself down.

Workaround:

·         If you're using a case or cover, try to removing it to prevent the iPad from cooling down.

·         Avoid using the iPad in a really warm environment. Try going somewhere cool or a place with airconditioning to prevent it from overheating.

·         Playing games for a long period of time will surely make it warm. Try taking a break once in a while.

Possible Fixes:

If you're not using the iPad Air for a long period of time or you're not using it heavily and then suddenly it gets hot for no apparent reason, take it back to Apple for further troubleshooting.

Issue #3: Restoring From a Backup Takes Too Long, Stalls, or Won't Start

There are times where you may encounter difficulties in restoring a backup from an older device to your new iPad Air. Problems involved with backup process taking too long, stalls, or will not start. Be reminded that performing a backup via wireless connection may take a while to complete.

Possible Fixes:

·         If you think that the process has stalled, try restarting your iPad Air. Some users have claimed that restarting the iPad prompted it to continue where it left off more quickly.

·         Try restarting your router.

·         If you're having problems restoring from iCloud, try using a cable and iTunes instead.

·         If the options above still didn't work for you, perform a factory reset on your iPad Air. Back it up, then proceed to Settings, go to General, tap Reset, then tap Erase All Content and Settings, and then tap Erase. Next, create a new account on your Mac or Macbook, then give it administrator privileges. Restart the Mac, and then log into it as the new user. Plug in and back up your old iPad with iTunes. When it's finished, connect your iPad Air and restore from the backup you just made.

Issue #4: Screen Has Dark Lines or Has Yellow Tint on One Side

Some iPad Air users have reported problems about the screen having dark vertical or horizontal bars, mostly on the left edge of the display when held in portrait view. Some have experienced about a noticeable difference in color between the two halves of the screen, with the left side having a yellowish tint.

Fix:

This issue is more likely a production defect, therefore your only solution for this is to return the unit to Apple or to the retailer and ask for a replacement.

Issue #5: Frequent Crashing of Safari Browser

This issue normally occurs when the user tries to open additional tabs, or have multiple tabs open in Safari. According to people who have reported this problem, pressing the tab button is enough to trigger a crash on the browser.

Possible Fixes:

·         Go to Settings, tap Safari, and then tap Clear History and Clear Cookies and Data.

·         Try restarting the iPad by holding down the Sleep/Wake button, and then slide to power off.

·         If it didn't work, go to Settings, then tap iCloud, then Storage and Backup, and then tap Back Up Now. Next, go back to Settings, tap General, then Reset, and then tap Erase All Content and Settings. Set up your iPad Air again, then proceed in restoring your backup.

·         Download the Google Chrome browser.

Issue #6: Slow, Intermittent, No Connection to Wi-Fi

Try the commonly-known solutions below if you are experiencing slow, dropping, or no wireless connection on your iPad Air.

Possible Fixes:

·         Power cycle your wireless router and your iPad Air by turning them off for about 30 seconds, and then turn them back on.

·         Enable the Airplane mode on your iPad, then go to Settings, then General, then tap Reset, and then tap Reset Network Settings. Once that's done, turn off the Airplane mode, then try setting up your wireless connection again.

·         Check your wireless router's settings and make sure that it has the latest firmware. If you need assistance on this, contact your router support. If you're experiencing signal problems, try changing the router's channel from automatic to a specific known-working one. This can be done on the router's configuration page.

·         Backup of your iPad to iCloud and then restore it.

Affordable Smart Tech That’s Perfect for Your Small Business

According to U.S. government data, small and medium-sized enterprises (SME’s) make up almost 98 percent of the companies in the U.S. Still, a number of business software providers do not properly consider the unique needs of companies in this market. They build solutions aimed at much larger companies, and sell them at prices that are simply unaffordable for smaller enterprises.

However, there are many tools in the market that are not only of very high quality, but have solutions that take a small business’ needs into consideration at a very affordable price. If you own a small business and want to find affordable smart tech tools, techs, and gadgets, try dabbling into the following:

Swivl

Producing video for your small business is now a lot easier. In fact, you don’t even need a cameraman; all you need is your smartphone. Set up the Swivl with your iPhone and get into position, with the “marker” in your hand. The Swivl will pivot the iPhone to follow the marker and also your movements as you demo a product, give a mini-lecture, host a video chat or broadcast a company announcement. The Swivl also has a built-in microphone so that the audio levels stay constant and aimed at your voice, even as you move around the room.

Behringer Soundscape Air iPod

A quiet office is a sad office. Throw out the 80’s boom box and get an iPod dock with speakers that will amplify the jams up to 150 feet from the base. The 3” speakers will charge up when they're placed back on the dock.

Powertech USB Charger

With a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop, and maybe even an iPod, you’ve got a lot of devices to keep powered. This USB wall charger lets you plug in traditional power cords, but there are also two inputs for USB devices to keep everything charged. The gadget has the world’s slimmest USB adapter. This will definitely prove to be a useful accessory for business travelers.

Karotz Smart Rabbit

They may look like toys, but Karotz are actually Internet-connected “smart devices” that can be integrated with your social network. The rabbits will update your Facebook and Twitter pages, send e-mails, and read texts. The voice-recognition software even helps the rabbit do requested commands, such as searching the web, playing music, checking the weather forecast, and consuming RSS feeds. There’s also a built-in microphone and webcam, so Karotz can snap a picture and upload it right to Facebook. At the office, you can set up the Karotz at the front desk, and when guests come to the office, they can swipe the RFID tag to notify you of their arrival. So Karotz is your new personal assistant and front desk person in one. You can also give orders to the smart rabbit remotely.

omNovia

Great tool that requires no software installations since it is completely browser-based. This is perfect for those companies that don’t have any IT employees and need an easy-to-use solution.  It’s also easy for your attendees as all they have to do to attend a meeting is click on a link. Another advantage of omNovia is that users can hold very small meetings with only two participants or large webinars with up to 5,000 attendees. All data and information shared is completely safe and secured. Users can also record their web conference and replay it later exactly as it happened on the day.

Iogear Bluetooth 4.0 USB Micro Adapter

The Iogear Bluetooth 4.0 USB Micro Adapter is a small device that turns any PC with a USB port into a Bluetooth-enabled computer. This minuscule adapter enables Bluetooth 4.0, the latest and fastest generation of Bluetooth technology. This adapter’s low power consumption won’t suck the life out of your laptop or other portable device.

Kensington International Travel Plug Adapter

The Kensington International Travel Plug Adapter is a portable power adapter equipped with plugs that work in more than 150 countries. You won’t have to buy a new adapter every time you travel to a different region. In addition, this gadget is so small it won’t take up much room in your luggage. This is great for any small business on the go.

Master Lock Combination Padlock

The Master Lock Combination Padlock is a maximum-security padlock with an electronic interface. This padlock is easier to use than standard locks. You can even program it for up to three persons with unique passwords. You also get access to the Master Lock Vault, where you can securely store documents and other files online with 256-bit SSL data encryption.

Reasons Why Your Smart TV is Having Trouble Streaming Netflix and How to Fix it

Have you ever wondered why your Smart TV keeps on buffering while you are watching a movie or TV show played from Netflix? Isn’t it annoying sometimes when you’re watching the most thrilling and exciting part of the movie and then all of a sudden it stops streaming? I know how it feels and that is exactly why I’d like to share to you some of the main reasons why you’re having these troubles and some tips on how you can fix the issue.

TV shows or movies played from Netflix, which buffer frequently on your smart TV usually indicate a slow or interrupted Internet connection. These are the 2 most common causes of the buffering issue with Netflix. But of course, there are other things to consider when it comes to this type of issue. But for today, let’s limit it to four reasons only and let’s focus on a network which is set up via wireless since most networks these days are already set up that way.

Let’s say that your network supports streaming and that means that you’re not connecting to a dial up or satellite connection. Otherwise, it would be impossible to stream Netflix movies or even other videos online.

Now, the first thing to consider is your Internet speed. If your network supports streaming, it must meet the minimum streaming requirements from Netflix. Also, let us remember one very important thing when it comes to streaming. Movies or shows playing in high video quality consume more bandwidth than low quality videos or movies. With that being said, I’d like to show to you the Internet speed requirements based on the quality of Netflix videos that you’re trying to watch.

• 0.5 Megabits per second – Required broadband connection speed
• 1.5 Megabits per second – Recommended broadband connection speed
• 3.0 Megabits per second – Recommended for DVD quality
• 5.0 Megabits per second – Recommended HD quality
• 7.0 Megabits per second – Recommended Super HD quality
• 12 Megabits per second – Recommended for 3D quality

If you do not know the Internet speed that you have subscribed for with your Internet service provider (ISP), you have to call and ask them. Then perform a speed test to check if your connection is really getting the speed of what you’re paying for. And if you like, you can upgrade to a higher plan so that you can also enjoy watching higher quality videos from Netflix.

Another possible cause for having trouble streaming Netflix videos would be the stability of your connection. Even if you have good Internet speed, it may drop the connection from time to time. Whenever it drops, it buffers your streaming experience, which can be really annoying.

The best way to check the stability of your connection is to connect your PC directly to the modem, and then observe your Internet connection. If you’ll still be getting the same connection problem, contact your Internet Service Provider and have them troubleshoot your modem’s connection. However, if it’s your router that’s causing the intermittent connection, upgrading the router’s firmware may resolve the issue. Same goes with the driver of the wireless receiver on your smart TV.

Aside from that, another thing to consider is the distance of your smart TV from your router. This is very common in a wireless network. The farther you are, the weaker the signal becomes. This will have a big effect on your streaming experience since streaming requires a stronger connection compared to simply browsing websites on a computer.

To avoid connection issues caused by distance, you have to make sure that your smart TV is in range with your router’s signal. If there is a limitation with the signal because of the type of network environment you have at home, or the type of router that you have, you may want to consider putting the router in a central location at home if possible, or adding a range extender to your network. That will definitely help you with your distance issues in your wireless network.

Lastly, interference in your wireless network may also cause your streaming problems with Netflix. If your other wireless devices, such as cordless phones or microwave ovens, operate on the same band as your smart TV, it may interfere with the wireless signal of your smart TV.

To avoid this, make sure that there are no other wireless devices near your smart TV or your router if possible. Otherwise, move them away from the router, or move the router to a new location to improve its signal strength and avoid getting disrupted if you can. Also, make sure that the router is placed in an open space where it won’t be limited from broadcasting its signal in your network. Elevate your router off the floor as it will give you a better reception.

So there you have it, those are the common reasons why we encounter problems streaming Netflix using a smart TV, and the suggested fixes for them.

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By: Mark Savella 
About the author: Mark has been a tech support engineer at SUPPORTrix for more than 5 years now and knows a lot of troubleshooting technique and guide to help people who are having trouble with modern technology.