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What Does the New T-Mobile 42 MB/S Mean for You?

What Does the New T-Mobile 42 MB/S Mean for You?

This year, T-Mobile began a multi-stage plan to implement 42 MB/S 4G coverage in select markets for select devices. This past May, they expanded this coverage from three select cities to a much wider audience, implementing coverage in 55 areas around the country. This expansion includes many major cities, including Chicago, Phoenix, and Denver. With this project, T-Mobile is boasting the fastest 4G mobile speeds available. But how does it affect you?

With T-Mobile lacking devices that take advantage of 42 MB/S speeds, it likely doesn’t affect you at all. Well-known as a mobile phone company, T-Mobile has yet to announce, much less release, a smart phone that will be capable of utilizing the 42 MB/S coverage. For instance, one of the newest T-Mobile branded phones, the HTC Sensation 4G, is only capable of speeds of 14.4 MB/S. Currently, T-Mobile seems to be targeting broadband USB modems as the primary tech they’ll be marketing to utilize their new 42 MB/S speeds. One such modem, the Rocket 3.0, is one of the only devices capable of reaching such speeds.

Even if T-Mobile offered a wide array of 42 MB/S devices, the effect still would be fairly small. A large part of this is due to the fact that 42 MB/S is just a theoretically possible maximum speed. This means that many users would never be able to reach download speeds that come close to the 42 MB/S touted. Further still, while coverage for 55 areas sounds like a lot, it is mostly relegated to major cities. This is great for travelers and businessman, but this would leave many rural and suburban users out in the cold. Factor in that these major metropolitan cities are also likely to see much higher traffic, the speeds would be even lower during peak usage times.

Posted in Featured Articles, Gadgets, Random Stuff, Technology

Making Android Your Own

Making Android Your Own

The Android mobile platform is quickly becoming the fastest and most popular of smartphone operating systems. Another useful and helpful creation brought to us by the lord of the search engines, Google, Android is being enjoyed world wide, with its ease of use and customization options.

Most users will know that they can easily download apps from the Android Market (and now that of the Amazon App store) that can make life easier by keeping track of your health, your daily tasks and email (especially when using Google’s products), and even becoming your personal assistant. But what some may not know or attempt to achieve is that Android – unlike Windows or Apple – allow for users to really customize, with the use of hacks.

Let’s be honest – no manufacturer wants you to completely own your phone and by that, I mean, they don’t want you to remove the stuff they put in so that they make a little more money off of your cell use. That’s why you get all that bloat ware when you first buy your phone, but with some hacks, you can get around this.

Root Your Android – rooting your Android means that you basically get to the nitty gritty of your phone, by getting directly to the administrative areas. A root can open up a ton of options, including downloading those apps that are root only. One of the benefits of rooting is the ability to get newer versions of Android OS on your phone, even if it’s not on the list for upgrades.

There is of course the danger that comes with rooting any phone and that’s the case where, if you do it wrong, you’ll need to start your phone from scratch, as in everything will be erased. However, an upside is if you DO root your Android and want to unroot it, you can – unlike an iPhone.

Change Your Display – sometimes the default homescreen isn’t anything to shake your head at. For most, it’s probably fine and does what it needs to do and that’s show their icons. However, for some, seeing the same thing over and over gets boring. That’s why you can change the way your homescreen works.

You can chose home screen launchers that allows extra screens, as well as download icon to beautify each of your screens.

A World More – these are two of the many things that you can do with your Android phone. There’s still the ability of using your phone as a remote (media, YouTube, and even your garage door), running newer versions of Android on any phone, and of course all the awesome apps that you can download, many for free.

Posted in Featured Articles, Gadgets, Technology

What’s better? Mac or PC?

What’s better? Mac or PC?

The argument seems to never end. Mac or PC? Ask ten people and you can get ten different answers on why one is better than the other. However, the answer becomes much simpler when one variable is removed from the equation. Money. And when the cost is no longer a factor, the choices become much clearer. To put it simply, do you want a machine that has and can be personalized to your liking? Or do you prefer the most intuitive computer on the market?

The first option is a PC. If you want to personalize the innards of your computer, this is the one for you. Unlike a Mac, the PC is so user friendly anybody with little to no technical expertise can upgrade. A trip to the local Best Buy, access to Youtube, and a free afternoon, will result in the same person that couldn’t figure out how to use that VCR ten years ago having a finely tuned machine. The trick here is that parts are readily available, and extremely easy to install. Find out the graphics card is out of date? Twist four screws counter-clockwise, pull it out, and put in a new one. It couldn’t be any easier.

All of this, however, comes with a downside. PC’s are generally marketed for the entry-level shopper. They are made to be put on the shelf, running some flashy demo that attracts someone who knows absolutely nothing about computers. They need extensive upgrades to be able to run advanced programs. These upgrades are readily available, but are also not guaranteed to work with each other. This creates conflicts that require a fair to extensive amount of computer expertise to diagnose and rectify.

The second option is a Mac. Unlike the PC, for the most part you need to order the computer with the specifications required to accomplish your goals. And I make reference to ordering your Mac as opposed to buying it in the store. The options offered in the pre-built Macs are fine for the novice that doesn’t need much in their new computer. But, ordering your Mac affords you the opportunity to add RAM, a faster processor or graphics card, and even software without having to take the machine back to the Apple store for upgrades.

Since Apple must approve everything that “officially” interacts with their products, there are very few conflicts that occur when dealing with a Mac. In most instances, the system is completely “plug-and-play,” meaning you plug a peripheral into the USB and the Mac instantly recognizes it, configures it, and you are ready to use it. Also, Apple has its own operating system, Mac OS. The version changes with each iteration, but what doesn’t change is the ease of use. Drag-and-drop, spotlight searches, and even file management have been tweaked to seamless perfection.

Taking these facts into account, the Mac would be the obvious choice for intuitive work, while the PC is more in line with a smaller niche of the professional world. However, if money is not a factor, a PC can fit the bill, albeit much less efficiently.

Posted in Featured Articles, Gadgets, Technology

What’s Better?: A Ferrari Or An Aston Martin  Let Your Heart Decide

What’s Better?: A Ferrari Or An Aston Martin Let Your Heart Decide

If you are looking for a Ferrari (like the stretch limo modena pictured) or an Aston Martin then you are looking for the best of the best when it comes to performance and motor sport. Ferrari holds a name and an image that dates back for the last half a century. The story is the same with Aston. They are both icons to an automotive enthusiast. Which are you?

Aston tends to be best for those who have discriminating tastes, to say the least, and prefer the air of British craftsmanship. The Ferrari fans will enjoy more Italian pizazz with their car. Ferraris are provocative while the Astons are more subtle, but of course, no less powerful. Both cars will look great parked outside your home or down on the French Riviera. James Bond, of course, would never find himself in the Italian stallion, though he would of course feel at home in a DB9 from Aston Martin.

In a Ferrari you wear Gucci sunglasses while in the Aston you will turn up looking the part in a suit. They are worlds apart and when it comes down to it, the question is, which one are you? Are you a jet-setter who wants to spoil your latest catch? Either will suit you well. Prices are comparable.

Ferrari has spent more of their time on the race track of late and the evidence shows through in their road cars–each of their offerings are brimming with technology which some might find too scientific. For those that would rather ditch the science lesson and return to the French Riviera, consider instead a classic Ferrari 275 or Daytona. These will not perform on the track any more, but they will still win over your heart when driving through the Alps. A classic DB5 or DB9 from Aston will thrill your heart as well, but in quite a different way.

Bottom line is that if you ask a Ferrari owner which is best you know what the answer will be. If you ask an Aston Martin enthusiast which they prefer and the story will be the same. Let your heart decide which is best after taken each for a long drive on a winding road. There is no better way to tell which will actually move you the most. Let your drive begin with the search for the perfect model of ultimate performance.

Posted in Featured Articles, Gadgets, Life, Random Stuff, Technology

James Bond Would Undoubtedly Drive The Aston Martin Rapide For 2011 If He Settled Down With A Family

James Bond Would Undoubtedly Drive The Aston Martin Rapide For 2011 If He Settled Down With A Family

There is no question that James Bond would take delivery of a 2011 Aston Martin Rapide if he were to settle down with a family. There have been a number of four-door sports saloons to hit the market in the last three years including the Porsche Panamara, the aging Maserati Quattroporte and even the concept Lamborghini, but none of these cars say, ‘Bond. James Bond.’ They just do not have that quintessential of all British qualities like the Aston does. Therefore, if Bond were looking for a 4-door car to change up his style a little, he would not have to venture far from his favorite cars, the Aston Martins.

Yes, you’re thinking that Bond would never be caught in a four-door car, but do not be so sure of yourself. When you have had that many women, a family is bound to start at some point. And yes, you could squeeze a family (or business party) into the back on an Aston Martin DB9, but your guests would likely have sore legs after just an hour’s drive. The Rapide seems the only car to maintain the essence of the British sports car when making the leap to four doors. It should be noted that James Bond would never find himself bored to death by a soft Bentley or Rolls either, at least not if he still has some lead left in his pencil.

Posted in Featured Articles, Gadgets, Life, Random Stuff

Benefits of using T-Mobile

Benefits of using T-Mobile

T-Mobile USA said it has increased the speeds of its HSPA+ network to 42Mbps in 55 US markets, taking the fight to other LTE networks. T-Mobile will also release a mobile broadband dongle capable of making use of the increased speeds, the T-Mobile Rocket 3.0. T-Mobile has been in business for a long time. They have a fan base of loyal customers that are content with their service. They may not be the biggest fish in the ocean, but they have still managed to swim quite well amongst the sharks. There is a lot to be said for this type of performance in an industry as dominant as the world of cell phone technology.

Most T-Mobile customers would probably say that customers satisfaction is on the top of their list of things that indicate a good cell phone service provider. T-Mobile is the smallest of the major cell phone carriers, but this puts the company in a unique situation. They have the competitive advantage of being able to serve the customers quickly with short hold times on phone calls.

Customers are also thrilled about the unlimited talk, text, and data for one flat rate. T-Mobile knows that this is great selling point because no one else is doing this. Customers that have reviewed data plans from other carriers are well aware of how great of a deal this is.

The T-Mobile customer base is also built on great phones. Anyone that knows about cell phone carriers is aware each carrier offers a different selection of phones. Vendors like Samsung, for example, manufacturer a smart phone that is available for Sprint, AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. Customers have been very satisfied by the offerings that T-Mobile has presented.

T-Mobile offers a large variety. They offer the Sidekick and this model is not offered anywhere else. They also have the Nokia X2, the Samsung Nexus, and 20 different models of Android phones. This makes them one of the most diverse carriers in the business of cell phone technology.

The best thing, however, may be the upcoming merge with AT&T. This is a huge benefit for T-Mobile customers because it will give them the chance to join a larger network. These customers will still be able to keep their old plans, but they will have access to a lot more towers. This will increase the signal strength for many T-Mobile users that may have service issues.

T-Mobile may be small, but the company packs a powerful punch. They have managed to please their customers and grow as a result of consumer loyalty. They also have great phones and the best smart phone plans for anyone that seeks unlimited features.

Posted in Featured Articles, Gadgets, Life, Random Stuff, Technology

What’s Better?: Klipsch or Bang & Olufsen Speakers?

What’s Better?: Klipsch or Bang & Olufsen Speakers?

The kind of music you listen to doesn’t matter when you are listening to it on weak speakers. People may scroll through your album selection and rate your taste, but what they will really judge you on is the quality of speakers the music comes through.

Klipsch and Bang & Olufsen are two of the most recognized brands in the audio business. Their products have come to stand for reliability, style and quality.

But which one is better?

Klipsch

Founded in 1946, this American brand has come to epitomize the high end, high fidelity sound system heard in so many high rise offices. Through their success, Klipsch has stuck to a basic principle: make it work and people will make it theirs.

Klipsch champions high efficiency/sensitivity speakers. They are high in dynamic range and low in distortion. They produce soft and loud sounds in equal quality.

Their speakers are featured in the Hard Rock Cafe and Regal Cinemas. When sound quality matters to their customers, businesses choose Klipsch.

Bang & Olufsen

A Danish company that began in 1925, O&B has seen its speakers rise through the ages to become a top product in the audio business. Pioneering one of the first alternating current radios, they have expanded to all forms of audio-visual entertainment.

O&B are worth half a billion dollars. They achieved this by selling trendy, beautiful work that represents the finest in style. O&B products have a unique user-interface and a signature appearance.

Their speakers appear in Audi, Mercedes-Benz and Austin Martin cars.

The verdict

If you want quality, go with Klipsch. If music sound is your primary concern, they are your company. If you want style, O&B is the best choice.

Make a statement about what you listen to, but also what you listen to it on.

Posted in Featured Articles, Gadgets, Life

What’s Better?: WordPress vs Joomla

What’s Better?: WordPress vs Joomla

What’s Better?: WordPress or Joomla

So you’ve got to slap together a website quickly, and time is of the essence. What do you do? Why, you use a handy Content Management System, of course. A quality CMS is easy to find nowadays, and there are so many free solutions available that it’s tough to know which to choose. The reigning kings of the CMS world are without a doubt WordPress and Joomla. WordPress is used on over a million sites, and Joomla is the go-to solution for government and Enterprise sites. So, which is the best solution for you? Let’s take some time to explore that question.

The major advantage that WordPress has over Joomla is in its flexibility and extensibility. WordPress can do whatever you want with the minimum amount hassle, and you can be up and running in under thirty minutes. With a comprehensive ecosystem of plug-ins, add-ons and modules, WordPress can be everything from a simple blog to a full-fledged E-commerce website. The main drawback is that the “everything but the kitchen sink” approach means that there’s a lot of bloat that comes with WordPress. In some ways, it takes more effort to weed out the extras than starting out from scratch with a simpler CMS. 

Joomla, on the other hand, is more tailored to the discerning web developer who isn’t afraid to tinker around a bit to get what they need and only what they need. Joomla involves less bloat, and it’s generally leaner and more focused. While WordPress has a million add-ons for everything from generating mobile versions of your site for smart phones to integrating <a href=”http://piwik.org/”>Piwik</a> and <a href=”https://www.google.com/adsense/”>Adsense</a>, Joomla is no slouch in the plug-in department, either. As the number two CMS on the web, Joomla has a vast and dedicated following of developers that enrich their community and make just about anything possible.

The great Joomla vs. WordPress debate boils down to the following broad characterization. WordPress is easier than Sunday morning, but it’s not as streamlined as Joomla and can be a handful if you need to scale it to support tens of thousands of daily page views. Joomla requires a bit more tweaking, but it’s more “ready for business” than WordPress. If you’re a beginner when it comes to web development and you’re just starting out, go with WordPress. If you’re hiring a professional to do the heavy lifting for you, roll with Joomla. When you make the big time and you’re getting <a href=”http://www.reddit.com/”>Reddit</a>-level traffic (or thereabouts), you’ll thank yourself later.

 

Posted in Featured Articles, Gadgets, Technology