|
Hardware Required
A Pentium II, Pentium III or AMD (Athlon or K6-2) processor running Windows 95, 98 or NT. Windows 2000 has not yet received the sanction of the producers of the programs. Speech software makers do not recommend Celeron processors because of their limited Level 2 cache and lower bus (or transfer) speed. The processor speed should be a minimum of 350 megahertz and, at least, 128 RAM - 256 RAM is even better. Several of the numerous sound cards that are recommended are: SoundBlaster 16, AudioPCI 128, SoundBlaster Live. Headset microphones come with the software but you can upgrade to better equipment. Microphone features that you should consider are: on/off switches, fit and cord length, especially if you like to stand up while dictating.
For a laptop, consider a microphone that works through a U.S.B. port because it replaces the often inadequate sound chip or card.
NYT - Susan M. Fulton
IBM VISIT
The tour of IBM Southbury was a huge success. Thanks to Don Crosby for handling the arrange-ments for this great experience.
How to Upgrade the Processor
Upgrading the computer's central processing unit or C.P.U. (microprocessor) is one way to extend the life of an older machine. While the hard drive is the storage area for all your programs, the CPU is the brain sending out instructions for the rest of the machine to follow.
Upgrade options will depend on the type of computer that you have, so refer to your system manual or manufacturer to find out what is possible. Kits for specific types of machines are available in computer stores. |
|
Depending on the type of kit, you may be able to plug in an upgrade "daughtercard" to your motherboard or stack the upgrade processor on top of your existing one. Some kits require replacement of the entire processor with a new one.
If you choose to upgrade, you will no doubt see improved performance but don't expect miracles as there is only so much an upgrade can do for an older machine.
New computers are relatively inexpensive, so if the upgrade kit costs more than a few hundred dollars, you may want to weigh all your needs before deciding which way to go. NYT- J.D. Biersdorfer
Door Knob Rattling
Computers are constantly under random attacks from hackers around the world who are looking to open doors (door knob rattling), or ports, enabling them to sneak in. Some hackers just like the challenge of entering someone's computer; while others are criminals who plant programs that tie up large, important Web sites. Some home computer users have a fire wall which protectsthem from entry by an unauthorized intruder. Believe it or not, Internet users connected through telephone lines are less vulnerable because a different address is assigned each time they dial in. It is the users that are connected by cable or D.S.L. lines provided by telephone companies that are more easily invaded because the computer's address is usually fixed, open to the public and easy to find.
University computers have networks that go to every dorm room. It is very easy to scan the address space and find the open servers and go in. How often your door knob may be rattled depends on one's ability to detect it. With the current trend to connecting by high speed cable and D.S.L. lines, the stage is set for break-ins but there are countermeasures such as fire walls and closing doors. NYT - Gina Kolata |