Convenient wireless needs careful setup
13.02.10
A: Wireless network do offer a lot of convenience — most notably, the elimination of Ethernet cables.
As you suspect, wireless networks also have some potential disadvantages. First and foremost, security is more difficult to ensure. Wireless routers broadcast signals that can be picked up by neighbors or hackers looking for unprotected networks. If you're going to use wireless, be sure and configure it for security. Turn off the broadcast station identifier and set up encryption so that the data transmitted between your computers can't be read. The documentation that comes with your router should give the details about how to do this.
The second potential disadvantage used to be that wireless networks offered significantly slower performance than hard-wired networks. With the introduction of the 802.11n standard, however, transmission speeds are comparable — assuming there is no interference. Interference and range limitations are the final major potential problems with wireless networks. Equipment that supports the 802.11n standard has a range of about 300 feet indoors — roughly double that of earlier standards. Walls and floors, especially those with metal in them, can cut down on the effective range. And some electrical devices, such as microwave ovens, can play havoc with wireless signals.
Source: Seattle Times
Shopping for an appliance?
06.02.10
"The most important thing to consider when buying an appliance is the size of the space in your home," says Lisa Lanteigne of Alpha Appliance Solutions on Halifax Street.
Lisa says other major considerations are energy efficiency and warranties, which will both ensure your money is well spent.
The average lifespan of an appliance is between 10 and 18 years, and to ensure your new addition stays shipshape throughout the years, Lisa suggests performing regular maintenance.
"A lot of people don't do preventative maintenance," she says. "For a washing machine, all it takes is to put it through a clean wash cycle once a month to avoid clogging the pump."
With all the available colours, styles and features, it can be difficult to find the appliance that's right for you. Here is a guide to the basic must-know features of all major appliances to help you make the right choice.
Washing machine: Today's washing machines come in an unimaginable number of colours and can pack a big punch with high-tech features to make your chores easier and more efficient.
Source: Times and Transcript