Computing Au Naturel - A Study on Multi-Touch and Natural User Interface (NUI)

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Smartphones and tablets have heralded the touch revolution. Computer mice and on-screen cursors are starting to feel antiquated. And yet there is a problem.

For all its expediency and efficiency, touch still runs mostly like a mouse cursor. So we added more contact-points: enter multi-touch. But now there's another problem, how do we plan out a schema that properly uses multiple touch points?

Well, there are different proposals for that. But perhaps the best answer is something completely different.

Paradigm Shift

We still use touch screens in a manner based off traditional computer mice: single click, single contact. Yes, we gain the benefit of moving in three-dimensions with our hand, as opposed to the two-dimensions a cursor trapped on-screen has. But we weren't taking advantage of our other nine digits.

So we developed multi-touch. Now different amounts of touch contact perform different tasks. One finger clicks. Two fingers scroll. Three fingers switch screens. Etc. This is true touch, a new mode of interface. But we still weren't exploiting the most out of our hands.

Not-So-Modest Proposals

This problem didn't just call for advances in touch screen technology but a whole new paradigm; a unique design schema. A different way of thinking. Different companies and organizations proposed their own visions of a multi-touch schema, like the notable 10/GUI.

They sought to expand the different types of functions able to be performed by varying hand configurations. Ultimately, they proposed a whole new way of interfacing with a computer, one that was faster and more efficient than even current multi-touch schemas.

Unfortunately, all these proposals missed the point entirely.

I Like To Move It, Move It

The reason why touch screens exploded in popularity was because they were supposed to make interfacing with computers easier. Rather than use awkward mice, trackballs, or pens/styluses touch screens promised users the ability to directly interact with their tool.

Other tools we can pick up in our hands. We can twirl them about, hold them at different angles, etc. We are creatures of sense, we like to be hands-on. Touch interface got us closer to the illusion that we were physically interacting with our computers.

The 2002 movie Minority Report revolutionized something, and it wasn't in the world of cinema.

It was in human-computer interaction. Seeing the protagonist manipulate his computer through gestures alone planted a seed in everyone who saw it, into the social consciousness itself. A new way of computer interface, and it was cool, and we all wanted it.

Why? Because it all looked so seamless.

Eliminating the Middle-Man

Not that there's anything wrong or inferior with multi-touch. Or rather, with the concept of touching. We like to touch, we like being hands-on. But what gets in the way is artificial interfaces between us and what we want to manipulate. Mechanics can hold parts in their hands. Coders cannot.

The original command-line interfaces (CLI) were highly abstract, and while expedient in the hands of the skilled were nevertheless highly non-intuitive. Using them required knowledge of syntax, semantics, and vocabulary; essentially a foreign language.

Then we developed graphical user interfaces (GUI) which allowed the layman to approach computers and use them effectively. The mouse and arrow cursor are a highly precise and fast mode of manipulating these visual elements, but demand working through a middle-man. It's awkward.

Touch screens promise the ability to eliminate that middle-man. But unfortunately proposed schemas like 10/GUI's only present more artifice and abstraction; in order to use a computer like that would demand learning specific gestures. It's effectively replaced the middle-man (mouse) with more regimentation, not unlike command-line. Only instead of having to learn a language, it's learning a specific dance.

The Right Answer

The best tool does what you want with the least amount of effort. Having to learn a whole regime, be it specific text-sentences or gestures, is just another obstacle in that tool's usefulness.

The holy grail of human-computer interaction is natural user interface, NUI. Completely intuitive, with almost no learning curve; all because the interaction is based on everyday, ingrained human mannerisms. Normal human gestures, everyday conversational vocal dialog. No regimentation whatsoever.

In short, Iron Man's JARVIS.

That. That is the new Minority Report. That is the bar that science-fiction has set and we are all waiting for reality to reach. A computer visual layout that reacts to us, with us, and that natively understands us.

There's almost no middle-man there. JARVIS understands Tony Stark's casual, everyday speech; even his slang. The graphical elements respond to his movements; not the other way around. A baby could operate that system. It's a computer that works like our minds do, as opposed to having to get our head into the computer's learning curve.

Living the Dream

And now we have something, mass-marketed, that can approach that vision: Microsoft Kinect. Control your Xbox with your body movements. But we didn't just stop there.

We have eye-tracking technology prototypes in development. And of course we have Siri.

Gesture-control. Eye-control. Voice-control. These technologies are still in the refinement stage, but they are coming along. Touch screens had a rocky start too and now look at their prevalence. Laptops even more so.

Many cars, not even luxury brands, feature voice control. It's far from perfect; you need to speak according to its regimented semantics, and its vocal recognition leaves a lot to be desired. Even Siri has a ways to go. We must still work ourselves around these tools, which is the mark of their immaturity.

But the tech is there, it's known by the masses, and it's in their hands. We, the people, the users, are growing up with it and the technology is revolving around us. And as each of these advancements evolve they will hopefully, likely, merge into one awesome interface. One that adjusts to where you're looking, converses with you and responds to your verbal demands, and moves with you.

Keeping It Natural

It doesn't necessarily have to be holographic. It can still be two-dimensional, still on a screen. It's not so much about the medium, but about the interface. One that has almost no obstacles between me and what I want to do, be it a middleman device or a mandatory regimen.

Now the ultimate ideal is a computer that responds to our thoughts. And while we have tech that's starting to react to our brain waves, that's still a field barely in its infancy. For now, just give me JARVIS and I'll be a happy camper.

What are your thoughts on the current abilities of multi-touch, and the possible future of true NUI?

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Cloud Computing: An Effective Method of Ensuring Convenience to End-Users

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We notice around us that at this time, compared to ten years ago, we have had so much going on in terms of advancement. In technology, the ways in production and distribution and the provision of goods and services have all been influenced by advancement. If at one point we see agents hired to go on field and to let the people know of certain services being offered now they do not have to...

Many People in at least the past ten years have learned to use multimedia devices and were educated to use the World Wide Web. This advancement in information technology allowed bridging of seas and the crumbling of transactions bound by time for certain goods or services to be delivered globally. The world market has become more dynamic and was able to evolve to a certain state that developed an utter reliance to this global technology. The internet is by far the most used medium in all of the world's economy. The use of the internet ranges from marketing to selling and the very provision of services regardless of nature.

Also, if many people have not noticed, many World Wide Web pages now run more efficiently than before. Matter of fact many of these web pages run without downloading all the necessary peripherals from the host server but is still capable of running optimally regardless. How is this done? Make you curious? It made me wonder too!

Have you heard about Cloud computing? This is a technology that is rooted to the use of the internet and the utilization of remote servers to store the data and other computer applications. This methodology is widely used now a days because this allows individuals and or business entities to store the information necessary for operation and yet not to compromise both personal and corporate security. Also, this will permit access to the information wherever the authorized personnel is in the planet as long as there is internet access in the vicinity.

I believe that by providing examples you are best able to understand what Cloud Computing is. Do you have an email account? Yahoo, Google, MSN, even Facebook, Tagged, Twitter and many other online tools of the same nature all use cloud computing.

Is your data secure in the cloud?

Perhaps this is the biggest concern to most people, as many companies fear their data is not safe. However, looking deeper into their concern, what they really fear is the loss of control over their data. They fear the thought of handing their data over to some 3rd party and perhaps never seeing it again. However, this fear is not only unfounded, but when you think about it, it's almost foolish.

Cloud computing companies have a vested interest in keeping your data safe and secure from loss, corruption and malicious attacks. They use all of their resources to insure your data is protected, building safety measures and redundancies, backing-up your data in mere moments when you change it. They not only have a back-up plan B, but have plans C, D and maybe even E. You can even send you data encrypted or have the company encrypt it even before it reaches their serves.

What many companies don't have a vested interest in is your data itself. They want to be able to protect it and ensure you always have access to it, but they could really care less about what data you store and send through their cloud servers. Even if you use company money to buy tickets to a baseball game in San Diego, cloud computing companies wouldn't really know or care to know about it. And, if you're really paranoid about security, there is such a thing as a private cloud, which means you don't share resources with other companies and you can even manage it yourself, in-house.

Is it worth the switch from regular servers?

Cloud technology is not the cure-all for everything that ails business today. However, while the cloud technology continues to advance, soon it will be the only affordable option for many businesses. After all any business that needs its email services and hosted platforms active 24 hours a day, 365 days as year - needs the resilience that a cloud infrastructure can offer. The nearest technology businesses had up until recently was clustered servers will automatic fall back facilities.

Cloud computing however does this in a much more elegant and seamless way meaning businesses will have to start considering it or they will miss a great opportunity.

Jan K is working for BizToCloud - company, specializing in cloud solutions for various industries, especially Small businesses, Health care industry, Construction industry, etc.

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What Is Cloud Computing?

To an average user Cloud Computing is a kind of Buzz Word. It describes the approach, abstracted IT infrastructures (computing capacity, data storage, network capacity, or even finished software) dynamically adapted to the needs of a network to provide. This technology and Virtualization requires to be specially adapted to the newer technology and offer reliability, scalability and easier management.

The technical development of cloud computing is progressing rapidly. Both the Service providers and the Users should be aware this technology, specially Public usage has inherited risk of Privacy issues. However, Hybrid and Private Cloud does have risks too. However, it does not nullifies the possibilities of cost reduction with with the technology. This kind of skepticism about any technology actually arises due lack of education. But, handling the vulnerabilities properly can reduce the risks to a minimum. Here is the importance where the cloud computing providers have a duty to inform their customers about the appropriate security measures.

The easiest way to explain the concept of the technology would be that cloud computing is what everyone has been using the web 2.0. Otherwise can be defined as cloud computing is the tendency to base applications externally hosted services, out of the website.

Private cloud is defined as the establishment of a network based on this technology or a data center providing hosted services for a limited number of users.

Specifically, the virtualized applications on private cloud are either administered directly by the company (which manages its infrastructure alone) or pooled (a trusted provider supports some of the outsourced services). For the users of public cloud services, the underlying infrastructure plays a minor role. This model is supposed to bring the benefits of this technology: lower cost of application virtualization in the case of a shared infrastructure; without the drawbacks.

Cloud computing describes the three service models:

IaaS - Infrastructure as a Service offers virtualized system to access to computer hardware resources such as networks and storage. With IaaS, users freely create their own virtual computer cluster and are therefore responsible for the selection, installation, operation and functioning of their own software.
PaaS - Platform as a Service enables the access use of programming or run-time environments with flexible, dynamic, customizable screens and data capacity. With PaaS users develop their own software applications or have them perform here, within a software environment that is the service provider (service provider) provided and maintained.
SaaS - Software as a Service offer the access using collections of software and application programs. SaaS service providers offer special selections of software running on their infrastructure. SaaS is also known as software on demand (software as needed).

Cloud Computing section of The Customize Windows has more than 200 articles on the topic, suitable for both new users and advanced users.

Got interested about Cloud Computing or need more information on the technology? Simply navigate to Cloud Computing Articles for more information and resources.

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Benefits of Cloud Computing

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Even though cloud computing is still in its infancy with users gradually discovering it and how it can help them, a number of benefits have emerged. In order to holistically analyze this type of computing, read the benefits mentioned below.

Benefits for CSPs (Cloud Service Providers)

Cloud computing benefits both who use it as well as those who provide it. If you are a CSP (cloud service provider), there are a number of benefits that you will get. Some of them are as follows:

1. Optimum Utilization
If you are on the catering side of the business, your service will be typically be used by a diverse range of users who will use different types of applications, features and at different times and of different volumes. Hence, the load of the hardware will be distributed in different ways and at different times.

2. Economies of Scale
When it comes to cost, this type of computing follows the economies of scale policy. Although fixed costs are high as they are with the setup of any data center. However, the bigger you grow the lesser per unit cost gets. Hence, if you provide reliable service to your customers, your business will flourish with positive word of mouth and marginal cost will eventually decrease.

3. Flexibility
Cloud computing works on virtual servers instead of physical ones. Hence, if the load becomes too much for a particular set of hardware to handle, the data and processes can be easily shifted to another set of servers. Also when the load is relatively light, the load can be shifted to only a few servers while the others can be put to rest for the time being.

Benefits for Users
Users of cloud computing too will it to their benefit in a number of ways.

Low Cost
Since cloud computing is a service, no investment in hardware has to be made. All you need to do is to subscribe to the services of a CSP (Cloud Service Provider). Before doing so be sure that they type of cloud computing you are subscribing to is the correct one for you.

Also, if you run a business, the cost of buying licensed software will go down because of the option Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) cloud computing gives.

Accessibility
Naturally if you have all of your data on a cloud server, you can access it from anywhere and at any time given that the machine is connected to the internet.

Manageability
User of cloud computing are free of the responsibility of maintaining and upgrading the servers. Unlike how you take care of your computer by running regular security and hardware checks such as Disk Defragmentation and CheckDisk.

Flexibility
As your needs change, you can ask your CSP (cloud service provider) to add different software, licenses and more storage space to your package. This is particularly applicable to small sized businesses.

For more information about Cloud Computing visit Ancoris who are are an authorised Google Apps Reseller offering help with cloud computing and enterprise security solutions.

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Types of Cloud Computing

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Cloud computing has three different types of services to offer. Depending on the users' requirements, each type of cloud computing service is employed either individually or in combination with others. Following is a brief on the three types of cloud computing services.

Software as a service (SaaS)
SaaS is also known as "on-demand software". The users of SaaS instead of completely buying the license of different software rent the software periodically and use them through an internet browser. The variety of software made available by SaaS is very wide. There are a number of software delivered by SaaS used by businesses that deal in content management, human resource management, accounting, ERP, customer relationship management and other relevant areas.

The software-as-a-service type of cloud computing is growing very fast while the largest market for software-as-a-service current is customer relationship management.

Platform as a Service (PaaS)
(PaaS) provides computing platforms to users of cloud computing. It is also the link between the other two services provided by cloud computing i.e. SaaS and IaaS.

A normal computer requires a computing platform that includes hardware architecture along with a framework of software. Such a platform is the base of collaboration of the hardware and software that includes the computer's operating system, architecture and languages. Hence, when it comes to cloud computing, in the absence of a real computer, it is Platform as a Service that provides the users with all that is required to compose a computing platform.

Some of the facilities that PaaS offers include hosting, deployment, testing, and application development and application design. Furthermore, cloud service providers offering PaaS include a number of features to design, test, deploy, host and run applications. All of these facilities can be availed by individual as well as business clients by subscribing to a single package with all of the features included.

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
IaaS is the third type of computing via the cloud. Just like PaaS and SaaS deliver different software and hardware facilities based on a cloud platform, IaaS delivers a virtualized platform. The process of hardware virtualization shows users only the abstract computing platform instead of the physical features. Such virtualization leads to the creation of what is known as 'virtual machine monitor' or 'hypervisor' that enables the creation of the third part of cloud computing i.e. Interface as a Service.

Infrastructure that becomes available to the users of Interface as a Service includes software, servers, network equipment and data-center space. The cost charged by cloud service providers from customers generally depends on the amount of activity done by the user and hence, is not fixed. There is however, a minimum amount of charge depending upon the number of facilities a user has subscribed too.

There are a number of advantages of using this computer technology. However, each type of service comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. In order to make the right decision, it is imperative that users carefully weigh the pros and cons.

For more information about Cloud Computing visit Ancoris who are are an authorised Google Apps Reseller offering help with cloud computing and enterprise security solutions including Google Sites.

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Cloud Computing Basics

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As the name suggests, cloud computing is a method of using a virtual computer literally from anywhere in the world with the same personalized experience. Cloud computing is cloud hosting taken a step higher.

Using this type of computing you can organize and have access to your data from any computer that is connected to the World Wide Web. Your user account does not exist on any single PC or laptop but on the Web and your data is saved not on a single hard-disk but, again, on the Web. This allows you to share all your data including your movies, photos, documents, etc. with whoever you want and that too instantly.

Interestingly, almost all of us are partially using cloud computing in a way. All our information that is stored on the servers of one or another internet company such as Yahoo or Picasa is actually a part of a cloud-based computing system. This is why we are able to access the data stored in our email accounts from anywhere we want.

Hence, the criteria for information to be called part of a cloud-based system include instant accessibility, transferability and mobility. The best part of it is that all the information that you own at different platforms such as workplace, email, mobile phone and social networks will get synched. Do not be alarmed, what is on the web does not necessarily have to be on display for the public. Just like your emails cannot be read by others, other data too will be protected and will be on display to only those who you intend to show it to.

One of the advantages of the cloud is for business executives. Whenever corporations buy computers they have to buy several different licensed software such as Microsoft Windows, Office and other field specific programs. With the help of cloud computing, executives can gain access to readymade computers that already have all the desired software installed. The most important advantage to corporations in such a case is cost saving. Cloud computing services offer deals at relatively lower costs because of a number of reasons such as large number of customers, low costs and mass purchases by single entities.

However, the issue of security remains a big question mark especially for corporate clients whose data is of very sensitive nature. There are three types of cloud computing services -infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS), platform-as-a-service (PaaS) and software-as-a-service (SaaS). The features that a user of cloud computing will be able to enjoy depend on the type of service he or she is using, i.e. PaaS, IaaS or SaaS. SaaS is the most commonly used type of cloud hosting service.

For more information about Cloud Computing visit Ancoris, who are a UK based Premier Enterprise Reseller of Google Apps, providing comprehensive deployment, migration, support and training services for Google Apps, Google Sites, Google Docs and everything related to Cloud Computing.

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Answering Common Questions About Cloud Computing

You might have heard a lot about cloud computing, but what is it really? Cloud computing refers to being able to access infrastructure, software, and data from servers not located on your own network. It involves accessing computers and networks located at a cloud service company. As far as your users are concerned, their data and programs come down to their desk from this cloud. It is a great option for companies that are just getting started.

Is cloud computing really just a gimmicky name?

The cloud part of the name is a bit gimmicky. However, it refers to a common symbol for data traveling through the internet instead of a through an internal network. When companies started offering services and hardware through the internet, they adopted the cloud term in reference to this common symbol. When you hear cloud computing, though, it is not always the same thing every time the term is used. There are different underlying services from which you can choose.

Is cloud computing reliable and safe?

If you choose the company well, you will be in good hands. These companies offer state of the art security as well as fortified buildings. They have redundant power and bandwidth connections to ensure your data is up and available 24/7. They provide redundant servers and can replicate your data onto multiple servers for even more security. You can ensure your security by taking steps on your end to secure your network and to restrict access to the data.

Who uses cloud computing concepts?

These concepts are becoming more acceptable to companies every year. Some companies have gone completely to the cloud model of computing. They maintain thin clients on their desktop PCs that access the data and software on the cloud. Others have adopted a partial model where they have some of their systems in the cloud with others still in their own facilities. This is a good model for companies that already have an established computing base.

What do you need to know before embarking on the cloud?

You need to do your homework before you embark into the cloud. Many companies have a great deal of success with this model. Nevertheless, it requires understanding the way in which your company currently operates and how it would operate with this computing model. For some companies, it is not a good fit. For others it is a perfect fit.

Gain the benefit of cloud computing and have access to resources in an environment that maintains security and protection of your data.

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Den Computing . . . A Bit of Fascinating History

I define Den Computing as having a computing device of manageable physical size mounted on or tucked under a table in a small place. The title, Den Computing, was chosen to dramatize the evolution of computers from the early "Tally Sticks", which were dark brown length of bone with a series of tally marks carved in three columns running the length of the tool, to the modern digital computing machines with their stunning capabilities and speeds.

Den Computing would have been a Science fiction story few decades ago. Even back in the fifties and sixties, computers were stone-age machines by today's standards. They computed but with limited capabilities, occupied inordinate floor space, consumed massive amounts of power, had gigantic price tag, and were as reliable as New England's weather.

The Abacus, invented in Babylon around 2400 BC, is the earliest actual computation tool known. It was an arrangement of lines drawn in the sand, with a systematic set of pebbles that can be displaced. Many centuries later, namely in the 2nd century BC, ancient Chinese invented a more sophisticated "Abacus" device known as the "Chinese Abacus". That may have been the first computing device of a manageable size to fit in small space and be suitable for den computing.

Mechanical analog computing devices appeared several centuries later in the medieval Islamic world. The earliest known mechanical analog computer was the "Antikythera Mechanism" discovered in 1901. It is believed to have been designed to calculate astronomical positions.

The ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator And Computer)[was the first general-purpose electronic computer, announced in 1946. It was designed specifically to calculate artillery firing tables for the United states Army's Ballistic research Laboratory. It represented a significant technological leap, as it was more powerful and vastly faster than all earlier electromechanical devices.

The first commercial Digital computer produced in the United States was UNIVAC I (UNIVersal Automatic Computer I), It was designed by J. Presper Eckert and John Mauchly, the same team who in 1946 had developed the Analog computer ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator And Computer) for calculating artillery firing tables for the United states Army's Ballistic research Laboratory. The power of the new Digital computer was highlighted, when in 1952 CBS used a UNIVAC I machine to predict the results of the presidential elections. It correctly predicted that Dwight Eisenhower would win with a sample of only 1% of the voting population.

Unlike modern digital computers however, UNIVAC was hardly a machine suitable for Den Computing. It required a floor space no less than 400 square feet, weighed 29,000 pounds, consumed 125 kW of power, and ran at a clock frequency of 2.25 MHz By contrast, a modern laptop computer can run a clock frequency 1000 times faster, consume 5000 times less power, and weigh near 5,000 times less. That is Den Computing.

I define Den Computing as having a computing device of manageable physical size mounted on or tucked under a table in a small place. The title, Den Computing, was chosen to dramatize the evolution of computers from the early "Tally Sticks", which were dark brown length of bone with a series of tally marks carved in three columns running the length of the tool, to the modern digital computing machines with their stunning capabilities,speeds and reduced size.

Den Computing would have been a Science fiction story few decades ago. Even back in the fifties and sixties, computers were stone-age machines by today's standards. They computed but with limited capabilities, occupied inordinate floor space, consumed massive amounts of power, had gigantic price tag, and were as reliable as New England's weather.

The Abacus, invented in Babylon around 2400 BC, is the earliest actual computation tool known. It was an arrangement of lines drawn in the sand, with a systematic set of pebbles that can be displaced. Many centuries later, namely in the 2nd century BC, ancient Chinese invented a more sophisticated "Abacus" device known as the "Chinese Abacus" which can be still found in certain locations. That may have been the first computing device of a manageable size to fit in small space and be suitable for den computing.

Mechanical analog computing devices appeared in various forms and configurations several centuries later in the medieval Islamic world. The earliest known mechanical analog computer was the "Antikythera Mechanism" discovered in 1901. It is believed to have been designed to calculate astronomical positions.

The ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator And Computer) was the first general-purpose electronic computer, announced in 1946. It was designed specifically to calculate artillery firing tables for the United states Army's Ballistic Research Laboratory. It represented a significant technological leap, as it was more powerful and vastly faster than all earlier electromechanical devices.

The first commercial Digital computer produced in the United States was UNIVAC I (UNIVersal Automatic Computer I). It was designed by J. Presper Eckert and John Mauchly, the same team who in 1946 had developed the Analog computer ENIAC The power of the new Digital computer was highlighted, when in 1952 CBS used a UNIVAC I machine to predict the results of the presidential elections. It correctly predicted that Dwight Eisenhower would win with a sample of only 1% of the voting population.

Unlike modern digital computers however, UNIVAC was hardly a machine suitable for Den Computing. It required a floor space no less than 400 square feet, weighed 29,000 pounds, consumed 125 kW of power, and ran at a clock frequency of 2.25 MHz By contrast, a modern laptop computer can run a clock frequency 1000 times faster, consume 5000 times less power, and weigh near 5,000 times less. That is Den Computing.

Bertrand is a professional with more than 35 years of Engineering and management experience in the Electronics industry. He received his education in Liberal Arts, Science, Engineering and Operations research in French and Ivy League American Universities. He is a lecturer on engineering subjects, a technical writer and Editor, a researcher and a strong advocate of Human Engineering and Engineering Ethics,
Bertrand resides in Connecticut with his wife Ping. Together they enjoy the peacefulness of rural life, fine dining and travel.
Web: http://www.dencomputing.com/|

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What Does Cloud Computing Mean?

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Cloud computing is the delivery of computing products and operations as a service rather than a purchased product.

Cloud computing can be a paid service or free depending on where the user acquires the service. Business users will usually utilise a paid managed service from a reputable supplier.

Cloud Computing uses software stored on a remote server that is in principle accessable 24/7. Cloud Computing also encapsulates Cloud Backup which is the backing up of a local computer onto a remote server at regular intervals, using software provided by the service provider.

The cost of shared data storage has in recent years fallen so dramatically that it can be very cost-effective for a user with small or large amounts of data to backup using a Cloud backup service provider.

This means that instead of purchasing software for use on a local machine, the user will effectively rent software running on a remote server.

The cloud is effectively the Internet and cloud computing is the term applied to the user putting data into the Internet as opposed to on a PC or local server.

A cloud services provider is a third-party company providing access to a server together with the appropriate software allowing the user to store data on this server.

Cloud computing is effectively a marketing term for organisations that provide, software, data access, computation processing and backup services to end users who do not require knowledge of the physical location or configuration of the system that actually delivers the service or product.

Any form of remote backup can be encapsulated in the term Cloud Computing this could include the use of free server space e.g. Google documents, Flickr, and paid services via Amazon or one of the many providers offering online backup services.

Cloud backup is a service provided by an organisation, providing access to a remote server using a browser-based software or software downloaded onto the local machine. The actual storage and backup of data is carried out online and the data is kept in a secure location on this remote server.

As hard disk space becomes cheaper and cheaper it is now a viable option for the small business owner and home computer owner to store their data, pictures, videos in a remote location and being backed up on a regular basis.

The latest mobile phones and tablet devices open the doors to new opportunities using the cloud as these devices all potentially have access to stored data dependent on the service selected.

John is a regular commentator on computing subjects, companies and websites specialising in online applications. online cloud storage reviews.com Has a full range of Cloud Storage reviews for people looking for an off site backup Solution.

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Use Cloud Computing To Outmanoeuvre the Corporate Competition

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In the past large companies have had a definite technical advantage over their smaller rivals. Their financial firepower and the economies of scale that they could achieve allowed them to invest in very sophisticated computer systems, with the best IT Support to keep them running.

In contrast SME's had to compromise with relatively inflexible and inexpensive packaged computer software and simple Microsoft Windows-based computer networks. And in the past fairly patch IT Support.

But now the tables have turned. Large companies are locked into very sophisticated, but inflexible computer systems. And changing them is a massive job - just look at any of the large government IT projects. The private sector is little better.

Packaged Computer Software Catches Up

Meanwhile the sophistication of relatively inexpensive packaged software and the Microsoft Windows networks have grown beyond all recognition. I marvel at the sophistication and flexibility of modern packaged software. In my own business we use 4 main software packages and they are absolutely superb. Without these computer systems my business would not have been able to grow as quickly nor be as profitable as it is.

I didn't need to commission bespoke software to keep up with the corporates. I have everything I need in an inexpensive package. And Microsoft Windows server software is incredible now. Remote access, superb security, recovery etc. are all excellent - again at a very low price.

Cloud Computing Moves The Game Forward

But the thing that brings it all together is Cloud Computing. With Cloud Computing you can turn on and off applications and server resources as you need them. The flexibility that Cloud Computing delivers is incredible. What's even better is that you only pay each month for what you use.

At my own company we are in the process of moving into the Cloud. Currently we are partially Cloud Computing based and I can see a point in time, not far away, when we will be 100% Cloud Computing based. It will enable us to accelerate our growth and improve our profitability.

The combination of Windows networking, superb software packages and Cloud computing means that small companies do not need vast amounts of capital to have truly incredible computing power at their fingertips.

For the savvy CEO a strong IT strategy can transform the business. Don't get me wrong; Cloud Computing will not in itself make your business larger and more profitable. But it will enable that to happen more easily. You will still need clear vision, good management, effective strategy, brilliant sales and marketing and great delivery of whatever your thing is. Cloud Computing will make this easier. As always it will be the best companies that will grab the Cloud Computing opportunity and leave their slower less innovative competitors behind. Some things never change!

IT Support Companies Deliver The Cloud Computing Edge

If you are an innovator you need the right IT support company to partner with. The ideal IT support company will understand your business, provide IT Support for similar companies and be able to work closely with you over the long term. Your IT Support Company will need to work both strategically and tactically with you. In other words they will need to act as your guide to developing an effective IT Support strategy and to provide excellent day-to-day IT Support services.

Ziptech Services Ltd is the best IT Support Company in the UK. They are providing all kinds of IT support services at fixed cost.

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Cloud Computing - What The Heck Is It And How Can It Help Me and My Business?

Cloud computing - what the heck is it and how can it help me and my business? That question may or may not be in your mind right now, but if it continues to soar in publicity, it might soon well be! If you are shrouded by fog as to what all the fuss is about, I have gone deep undercover to snoop out what's happening way up in the cloud, so join me and keep up!

I recently asked my nearest and dearest what he thought about "the cloud", and his response was as near to "naff off" as it was polite to be. He had no interest in the cloud, what the cloud is, what might be in the cloud or what it could possibly offer him. This - from a 35 year on-the-job-senior computer systems engineer!

So, gathering up my wits, I sloped off to find out for myself all about cloud computing - what the heck it was and how it could help me.

Firstly, I was intrigued to learn that the cloud is not new technology - it has been around for quite a while and many people are using it without knowing. It is simply a new word for services that use the internet to function. It has only become more popular recently because some of the bigger business companies spotted a new earning potential and repackaged it.

For example, I discovered that I am already using cloud technology when I access my emails on the web through Gmail. I can do that because although the code for the software is not on my PC, it is on the web server, so I can access it through a web browser. If you use Dropbox, Google Docs or Windows Live Skydrive, then you are also using services which exist in the cloud.

Secondly, I discovered that using cloud computing can give you more storage space on your own computer. For example, you may have bought products where you can only access them via the owner website with a username and password. There is no option to 'download' the material onto your own PC - someone else is storing your stuff. That is cloud computing.

Thirdly, Apple ramped things up a notch or three when they launched their own iCloud by giving their customers the ability to connect all their Apple devices. That means, taking a photo on an iPhone, viewing the picture on your iPad and then making a gallery on your iMac. Every device is synched to work together using cloud technology.

So how can you use it in your business? There are now cloud-based office services online, which means that projects and documents can be accessed by many people because it is not stored on one computer - it is in the cloud. This offers a lot more scope and freedom to non-office based personnel to touch base.

The obvious point that crosses the mind here is security - how secure will your information be? Occasional privacy breaches are a fact of life in our society, but it is possible to make things difficult for hackers by choosing very strong passwords for sensitive information and keeping a back-up copy.

Keeping up with new technology is vital for any business and if you are feeling overwhelmed, that simply means you do not have access to good online education. Do something about it now so that you can stay at the top of your league and master new technology before it masters you. I hope you have enjoyed Cloud computing - what the heck is it and how can it help me and my business?

Olive Bush is an online marketer who loves helping people from around the world to make money online and build their home based business. To learn more about Olive and her business please visit http://www.earnyourwealth.co.uk/

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HP Customer Support: Core Computing and Nothing Else

HP Pavilion series is a right combination of design, performance, and affordability. It is a unique approach of HP to configure laptop performance in a netbook size. Empowered with the Intel's latest Pentium and Core i processors, built in Wi-Fi and Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium one can stay productive and connected anytime anywhere. A 6-cell battery and ENERGY STAR qualification will combat with extended computing. The product incorporates optional 1GB graphics for superior viewing experience; a few of the products also dock free HP games to entice gamers.

The networking feature has been revamped with the innovative Wireless-N (draft 802.11n) technology which can easily balance among overlaying multiple radio signals, the technology is often termed as "multiple in, multiple Out" (MIMO) technology which accelerates the data traversing rates. Unlike ordinary wireless networking technologies that are confused by signal reflections, MIMO minimizes the "dead spots" in the wireless connectivity and maximizes the coverage area. The amplified signals have better penetration power and speeds up to 4 times farther than standard Wireless-G. Thus, running media-centric applications such as streaming video, gaming, and Voice over IP telephony becomes easy and simple.

To continue better experience with HP technologies one can easily access HP Consumer Support service over the Internet. Experts can provide comprehensive support regarding operating system, application software, Internet connection, networking and data transfer, security and connected peripherals. They can remotely install, activate, update and upgrade software besides setting up and configuring the peripherals such as printers, scanners, and all-in-one. Remote access gives them the power to analyze the settings pertaining to the Internet, browser, e-mail, web -based applications, social networks and more.

They have the expertise to take care of your infected system and repair it well as per demand. Experts will do it either manually by unraveling the system hidden files or through the use of some legitimate scanning tools.

HP Support Forum is further an extension of the customer-support but it's a type of community based service. Here, similar users share HP problems and solutions with an objective to make maximum of the HP Technology. One can actively participate in the forum discussion adhering certain rules or terms. Remember, not to trust every solution. Better options stay ahead in the form of HP Help knowledgebase, available with the PC support portals. The pool shows well-organized solutions under Windows 7, Windows XP or Windows Vista. Even you can download software update, drivers and security patches.

Some registered tech support companies also have collaboration with software vendors like Microsoft, AVG and others, and people can download their choice of products from these sites as per requirement. To help novices to know about the system compatibility, portals may recommend users to download system analyzer tools. On-demand HP technical help is also catered from these franchises regarding installation, activation, update, upgrade and repair of the software.

However, people are advised to go through the terms and conditions of these portals before downloading software or are asking for any technical assistance. You may have the options to choose from the array of support plans including incident based-plans or comprehensive package.

The author is a technician at Techvedic technologies, a firm that delivers end to end HP Support to clients. Online computer repair, HP Customer Support, Computer technical support, HP Technical help are few services offered at this one platform along with many others.

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Kindle Fire Vs iPad: How the Two Leading Tablet Computing Devices Compare

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Few people will argue with the assertion that Amazon's Kindle Fire and Apple's iPad are amongst the leading devices in the tablet computing niche. Being that they are manufactured by two different companies with different game plans, the two devices are naturally different in several fundamental ways. That sets the stage for the Kindle Fire vs. iPad comparison, as people try to figure out which of the two is a better device.

The iPad first appeared in the year of 2010, whereas the Kindle Fire was announced towards the end of 2011. Prior to the announcement of the Kindle Fire, the name "Kindle" was synonymous with "e-book reader", as all the previous Kindle versions were purpose-built e-book readers. What Amazon did with the Kindle Fire was add functionality to the basic Kindle, so that the device could serve as a full-fledged tablet computer at a similar price.

The fact that both devices have full tablet computing functionality is what sets the stage for this comparison of Kindle Fire vs. iPad. Most people, who undertake the comparison endeavor, know how the devices compare in terms of computing power, storage space, application hosting capabilities, and cost.

Computing Power
It is hard to make a meaningful Kindle Fire vs. iPad computing power comparison, because of the fact that both devices are powered by 1 GHz dual core processors and that they both come with 512 MB of memory. Both devices seem to be capable of doing things at decent speeds. Still, the fact that they are based on different operating system platforms means that their equality in terms of processor power and RAM doesn't always translate into equality in task execution speeds. There are tasks that the Kindle tablet seems to be capable of performing faster and vice versa, although the differences are barely noticeable.

Storage Space
The iPad offers choices between the 16 GB version, the 32 GB version, and the 64 GB version. The Kindle tablet, on the other hand, comes in one version alone: the 8 GB version. Thus, if we are to conduct a comparison based on storage space considerations alone, the iPad wins hands down. To be fair to Kindle Fire, most people are likely to find that the 8GB it offers is more than enough for their needs, especially given the fact that only 3GB is set aside for apps with the remaining 5GB being available for storage of content such as movies, books, music and so on.

Application Hosting Capability
Kindle Fire can host and run all applications developed for an Android platform, because it is a tablet computer powered by the Android operating system. The iPad, on the other hand, runs Apple's proprietary iOS platform. The iPad's superiority in terms of storage space translates into capability to host more apps. On the other hand, the fact that the Amazon Fire is based on the open source Android operating system means that its users have access to more free apps.

Price
In terms of prices, the iPad is substantially costlier than Kindle Fire. Yet it would be unfair to conduct a Kindle Fire vs. iPad cost comparison based on the bare figures. It is because whilst the iPad is costlier, there is also no denying that it offers more in terms of storage space and other things. The Kindle tablet may seem cheap, but it is designed in such a way that its users have to pay for most of the content they enjoy on it, meaning that they may end up spending more in the long run.

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Safe Computing for the Holidays

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Taking time off to spend with family and friends is such a treat, but alas for many it is hard to stay away from the computer. If you are going to do some online shopping, play a new game or check your work email, be sure to practice safe computing. Your home computer may not have the same protection as work, so before you download that file or visit a new site make sure you are protected.

Protecting your computer

1) Make sure your operating system is updated and all security patches are installed. If you are using Windows, go to Control Panel Home, then Windows Update. This page will show you if you are up to date or if you need an update. If you are out of date, follow the instructions and consider turning on automatic updates. If you have a Mac, the update is similar to Windows so just follow the instructions. If you have Unix or Linux, you are probably an expert and know how to patch your system.

2) Browse safely. Be sure your browser is current and that you are protecting against malware. Malware are those nasty intruders that we often call viruses, trojans, worms or spyware. For Windows, you can use Microsoft Security Essentials. It is a free Microsoft tool that runs in the background and will alert you when a threat is identified. Remember no protection is 100%, so you have to think before you click and be prepared to remove infections.

3) Use a firewall. Firewalls can be hardware or software and screen Internet traffic as a first line of defense.

4) Use spam filters. Most email programs include a spam and junk filter. Not only can you trash unwanted junk mail, but you can disable email links (recommended) and be warned of malicious content. There are many malicious emails that look legitimate so be careful when opening emails and never click on attachments or links unless you are certain of the source.

5) Download safely. Only download from sites that you know are legitimate and reputable. When you download, save the file and be sure that your antivirus software is set up to scan when you open files. A good rule to follow when opening anything is when in doubt - don't!

6) Have a computer expert you can count on. If you are unfamiliar with computer protection, be sure to have someone who you can consult for advice and help. It seems complicated, but there are many tools that are easy to configure that run automatically to keep you safe. Be sure you are protected so that you can enjoy the holiday season with your family and friends rather than fixing your computer.

7) Don't forget to keep a current backup. Your backup should be current and easily accessible. In case the worst happens, you can restore to your most recent backup.

Online information and help is abundant, but be cautious that you don't get fooled by malware that pretends to offer help. If you get a pop-up that claims it will remove an infection from your computer for a price, stop and call your expert!

Ms. Hester is the CEO of LAN Systems which provides IT solutions in the Greater Metro Atlanta Area. LAN Systems is dedicated to providing business technology that works for people. In 2004, Mary founded Intelligent System Solutions, Inc. (ISS) which provides high-tech consulting, sales and service to utility customers. Mary brings extensive experience managing a support and service group renowned for its "Best in the Industry" rating and standards. She is an expert in customer loyalty and retention. She has designed and delivered numerous training courses and workshops on a variety of topics.

http://www.lansystems.com/

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Tablets, Tablet PCs and eBook Readers - A Revolution in Personal Computing Devices

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It's hard to think of a world without tablets and smart phones just as much it is difficult to think how mankind survived before Facebook and orkut. The need for humans to interact with each other, the urge to know what is happening with the world and their friends at all times and the feeling that I am not alone in this world has been more or less satiated with these platforms. Earlier, a simple telephone call would do the trick but it was not possible to remain in touch with many people who formed a part of our lives at school, college, work and the marketplace. Today, Tablets, Smartphones and eBook readers have fulfilled that need to a large extent.

The Evolution of tablets was a gradual one with many false starts before the Tech pundits figured out what to do. The main person behind this revolution was Steve Jobs with his now famous "i Series" viz The iPod, iPhone and the iPad. However, a lot of credit should go to Amazon for their Kindle eBook reader and the books ecosystem that they developed which really kick started the E-reading revolution. The others followed suit but the honours go to the originators. However, with so many devices available, each doing a part of what the other could (you can read a book on the iPod or the Smartphone, but the display size is small or you could make a phone on a Tablet/Tablet PC with a 3G connection, browse the net and do your office and personal work with ease ) Knowing which device to buy and what to buy became a big issue. ( Tablet PC, VS eBook Readers helps you make that decision) and buying these devices became a drain on the pocket. The craze has become so widespread that it is now a distraction. People just buy the devices because they are so cool and do a lot, but no one asks the question, Do I Need It?. What are the good points of this Revolution:-

(a) People are able to connect instantaneously with each other.

(b) Boredom levels have reduced because you always have something to do.

(c) It does improve productivity if you are not distracted by it.

(d) Good for technological evolution and progress towards more natural forms of interaction with devices.

(e) Decreased usage of paper.

The Pitfalls

(a) Economic Hardship - people buy because its new and not because they need it. That definitely puts a strain on their pocket.

(b) Increase in Crime - Many cases nowadays deal with theft of devices and personal data on them.

(c) Increased Distraction - How many times have accidents occurred with some driver talking on the phone or a teen banging into a pole because he/she was updating their Facebook status.

(d) Increased Stress and Ill Health - People have become compulsive users - they wake up to their mobile, check their laptop/Tablet for the latest news and email and other updates and the worst of them all, continue to work even when they are on holiday...what a life!!!

Conclusion

Have these devices improved our life - Yes. Have they harmed it - I would say even More as the effects of Technology can be debilitating. But they are here to stay and there is no escaping that fact. The only thing to be done is to use it effectively and judiously and be its master rather than letting technology be our master.

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Cloud Computing: The Lowdown

A growing proportion of people are relying on the internet for their daily business and personal requirements. With the rise in popularity of laptops, smartphones and other mobile communication technology, the question of where do you store you data comes into mind?

Traditionally a computer user stored data on a computer's internal hard drive, making occasional backups to an external drive. This was perfectly acceptable prior to the 'internet boom'; however it now poses a problem when people need to access data when they are away from their computer.

Many computing tasks are now being done on smartphones and tablet devices. Accessing emails, writing documents, viewing photographs, mathematical calculations, and instant messaging are just a few tasks people are increasing participating in when away from a computer. Cloud computing has enabled much of this to be done. Facebook, Amazon, and Google are among a number of companies offering cloud computing solutions.

Cloud computing is the practice of using remote servers connected on the internet to store, process and retrieve files. The data is not stored locally and instead stored on these servers. There are benefits to this form of data storage. One of the main benefits is being able to access the files from any devise and from any location as long as there is an internet connection available. Cloud services can be relatively inexpensive to use and are usually easy to for both individuals and businesses to adopt. Of course there are positive and negative sides to any solution. With discussions constantly in the news regarding ensuring people keep their data safe, some people may feel unsure about keeping all of their data stored on the internet.

Depending on individual needs, cloud computing may not be the ideal solution to everyone. If you are purely after a mobile working solution; there are other options out there including using a virtual private network (VPN) to access data stored on your network. Wide area networks (WANs) can bring ideal solutions to larger organisations.

Whatever solution you feel is right for your business, it is important to ensure that you have an IT support solution in place covering the IT infrastructure and computer hardware. This is very important as any system outages or problems can cause major delays to working. Disaster recovery solutions are also important for businesses to adopt because you never know when a natural disaster may strike causing data to get corrupted or lost.

Thank you for reading,

Steven Tully

http://www.integratech.co.uk/

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