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REVIEW: Portable laptop monitor

In an era where mobility is paramount, the evolution of technology continues to shape the way we work, play and even travel. Among the many innovations out there aimed at enhancing our digital nomadic lifestyle, the Mobile Pixels DUEX range of portable laptop monitors stands out as a true game-changer. Gone are the days of being tethered to a single screen. With Mobile Pixels' DUEX Series, you can extend your workspace effortlessly, transforming your laptop into a dual-screen powerhouse anywhere, any time. It's such an easy way to seamlessly blend convenience with functionality, redefining the possibilities of productivity while you travel. Travelling for work is one thing, but as often as not it's all about embracing new experiences and enjoying moments of leisure. With a DUEX, your entertainment options are no longer confined to a small laptop screen; you can immerse yourself in your favourite movies, play games, or catch up on the latest episodes of your favourite TV shows in stunning clarity and detail. The vivid display and immersive audio of the DUEX screens also ensure that every moment of downtime is a delight. Designed with the modern traveller in mind, a DUEX laptop screen strikes the perfect balance between portability and functionality. Its sleek, lightweight design makes it the ideal companion for any journey, fitting seamlessly into your backpack or carry-on luggage. It unfolds effortlessly, instantly expanding your workspace wherever you go. Whether you're working from a bustling cafe, a tranquil park or a cramped airplane seat, a DUEX portable laptop screen adapts to your environment with ease. So whether you're a digital nomad, a frequent traveller, or simply seeking to optimise your productivity, the Mobile Pixels DUEX range of portable laptop monitors are a must-have companion for the modern adventurer. Embrace the freedom to work, play and explore on your own terms, wherever your journey may take you. The range comes in the DUEX Lite, Plus or Max varieties. The DUEX Lite is the most affordable option, weighing in at under 600g and boasting a 12.5” screen for $499. The DUEX Plus has a 13.3” screen and retails for $549. The DUEX Max is the premium option with a 14” screen, retailing for $599. All versions are available in Grey and Navy, and can be found at JB Hi-Fi, Officeworks, Harvey Norman, Amazon, Mwave and Rosman Computers. For more information, check out the full <a href="https://www.mobilepixels.com.au/duex" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mobile Pixels DUEX range here</a>. Image: Mobile Pixels

Travel Tips

Why do I have to take my laptop out of the bag at airport security?

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/doug-drury-1277871">Doug Drury</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/cquniversity-australia-2140">CQUniversity Australia</a> Anyone who has travelled by air in the past ten years will know how stressful airports can be. You didn’t leave home as early as you should have. In the mad rush to get to your gate, the security screening seems to slow everything down. And to add insult to injury, you’re met with the finicky request: “laptops out of bags, please”. But what does your laptop have to do with security? <h2>The day that changed air travel forever</h2> Airport security changed dramatically after the terrorist attacks in the US on September 11 2001. Before 9/11, you could pass through security with a carry-on bag full of everything you might need for your holiday, <a href="https://www.npr.org/2021/09/10/1035131619/911-travel-timeline-tsa">including a knife</a> with a four-inch blade. Indeed, that’s how the 9/11 attackers brought their <a href="https://www.npr.org/2021/09/10/1035131619/911-travel-timeline-tsa">weapons on board</a>. After 9/11, screening processes around the world changed overnight. In the US, private security contractors being paid a minimum wage were swapped out for a federalised program with highly trained security personnel. Anything that could be <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnhum.2013.00654/full">considered a weapon</a> was confiscated. Around the world, travellers were suddenly required to <a href="https://books.google.com.au/books?hl=en&lr=&id=6hBnJ-1hRp0C&oi=fnd&pg=PA86&dq=why+do+I+have+to+take+my+shoes+off+at+airport+security&ots=o6JIFHJzF1&sig=B6azb6xqN2uxM9CP-VZdfyt3Ag0#v=onepage&q=why%20do%20I%20have%20to%20take%20my%20shoes%20off%20at%20airport%20security&f=false">remove their shoes</a>, belts and outerwear, and take out their phones, laptops, liquids and anything else that could be used as part of an improvised explosive device. This lasted for several years. Eventually, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2212478013000944">more advanced</a> screening methods were developed to effectively identify certain threats. Today, some countries don’t require you to remove your shoes when passing through security. So why must you still take your laptop out? <h2>Airport scanners have come a long way</h2> The machine your bags and devices pass through is an X-ray machine. The main reason you have to remove your laptop from your bag is because its <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/traveller/reviews-and-advice/why-do-i-have-to-remove-my-laptop-from-my-bag-at-the-airport-xray-machine-20170320-gv1vqs.html">battery</a> and other mechanical components are too dense for X-rays to penetrate effectively – especially if the scanning system is old. The same goes for power cords and other devices such as tablets and cameras. With these items in your bag, security officials can’t use the screened image to determine whether a risk is present. They’ll have to flag the bag for a physical search, which slows everything down. It’s easier if all devices are removed in the first place. A laptop inside a bag can also shield other items from view that may be dangerous. Scanning it separately reveals its internal components on the screen. In some cases you might be asked to turn it on to prove it’s an actual working computer. With newer multi-view scanning technology, security officials can view the bag from multiple angles to discern whether something is being covered up, or made to look like something else. For instance, people have tried to <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2212478013000944">mix gun parts</a> with other components in an effort to pass checked baggage screening. Some airports have upgraded <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/traveller/inspiration/no-more-removing-liquids-and-gels-laptops-at-melbourne-airport-as-new-scanners-installed-20191002-h1ijdf.html">3D scanning</a> that allows travellers to pass their bags through security without having to remove their laptops. If you’re not asked to take out your laptop, it’s probably because one of these more expensive systems is being used. Nonetheless, amping up the technology won’t remove the lag caused by airport screenings. Ultimately, the reason these are a major choke point is because of the speed at which staff scan the imagery (which dictates the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2212478013000944">speed of the conveyor belt</a>). Unless we find a way to automate the entire process and run it with minimal human supervision, you can expect delays. <h2>What about body scanners?</h2> But your bags aren’t the only thing getting scanned at airport security. You are too! The tall frame you walk through is a <a href="https://science.howstuffworks.com/transport/flight/modern/airport-security3.htm">metal detector</a>. Its purpose is to uncover any weapons or other illegal objects that may be concealed under your clothes. Airport metal detectors use non-ionising radiation, which means they don’t emit X-rays. The larger body scanners, on the other hand, are a type of X-ray machine. These can be <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2212478013000944">active or passive</a>, or a combination of both. Passive scanners simply detect the natural radiation emitted by your body and any objects that might be concealed. Active scanners emit low-energy radiation to create a scan of your body, which can then be analysed. The kind of machine you walk through will depend on where in the world you are. For instance, one type of active body scanner that emits X-rays in what’s called “backscatter technology” was once <a title="https://electronics.howstuffworks.com/gadgets/high-tech-gadgets/backscatter-x-ray.htm" href="https://electronics.howstuffworks.com/gadgets/high-tech-gadgets/backscatter-x-ray.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">used widely</a> in the US, but is no longer used. It’s also banned in <a title="https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/about-us/what-we-do/travelsecure/passenger-screening" href="https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/about-us/what-we-do/travelsecure/passenger-screening" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Australia</a> and <a title="https://www.forbes.com/sites/daviddisalvo/2011/11/15/europe-bans-airport-body-scanners-over-health-and-safety-concerns/" href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/daviddisalvo/2011/11/15/europe-bans-airport-body-scanners-over-health-and-safety-concerns/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the European Union</a>, where only non-ionising technology can be used. Another type of scanner emits lower-energy <a href="https://science.howstuffworks.com/backscatter-machines-vs-millimeter-wave-scanners.htm">millimetre waves</a>, instead of X-rays, to image the passenger. Millimetre wave frequencies are considered to be non-ionising radiation. <h2>AI in our airports</h2> AI seems to be all around us lately, and our airports are no exception. Advancements in AI systems stand to transform the future of airport security. For now, human reviewers are required to identify potential threats in scanned images. However, what if an advanced <a href="https://thinkspace.csu.edu.au/artiificialintelligenceinsecuritycheck/article/">AI was trained</a> to do this using a database of images? It would do so in a fraction of the time. Some airports are already using advanced <a href="https://www.in-security.eu/index.php/editorial/the-future-of-airport-security-faster-smarter-safer">computed tomography</a> (CT) <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/jun/21/3d-body-scanners-at-australian-airports-what-are-they-and-how-do-they-work">scanners</a> to produce high-definition 3D imagery. In the future, this technology could be further enhanced by AI to detect threats at a much faster rate. Hypothetically, CT scans could also be used for both humans and their baggage. Could this allow travellers to walk through a body scanner while carrying their bags? Possibly. Until then, you should probably try your best to leave the house on time.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/209041/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/doug-drury-1277871">Doug Drury</a>, Professor/Head of Aviation, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/cquniversity-australia-2140">CQUniversity Australia</a> Image credits: Getty Images This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-do-i-have-to-take-my-laptop-out-of-the-bag-at-airport-security-209041">original article</a>.

Travel Tips

Why it's important to install updates on your device

Ever wondered if installing updates is worth the bother? Here's what you need to know. Whether you use an iPad, tablet, laptop or desktop computer, you have probably been prompted at one point to update your device. While these pop-up boxes may look like the spam you see on websites, they’re far from it. The device you use will have an operating system built into it, so iPads or Mac laptops will operate on Apple’s iOS system while tablets and laptops not made by Apple will run on Windows. Whichever system your device uses, it will eventually need an update. While it can be easy to dismiss the update notifications when they pop up on your screen, here’s why you shouldn’t. What’s the point? When a software program is developed, it is put through tests and quality checks and only once that has been satisfied is it released to the general public. However, once the software is out there in the world, and being used in real-life environments, it can come across little issues which get reported back to the developer. These companies then fix the issues and release the solutions as software updates. For electronic devices, especially laptops and desktop computers, security issues can be a big problem. Software updates include security solutions to malware or hackers, as well as fixes to bugs and any other issues that have occurred since the software was released. Is it different to an upgrade? While they may sound similar, a software update and an upgrade provide two different functions. An update will install a current version of your software to your device, so basically updating your existing version of iOS or Windows. On the other side of the coin is an upgrade, which allows you to upgrade a program to its next major version. Generally, there will be a cost for a software upgrade. How do I get updates? If your device is connected to the internet and it detects an update is available, it will prompt you with a notification message. This will alert you to the fact that an update is available and advise you of the next steps to step, such as clicking on a button on the notification message which will start the process for you. In System Settings on Apple devices and Control Panel for Windows devices, there’s an option where you can turn on automatic updating. This can provide significant benefits, such as improved security and reliability. Ultimately, software updates exist for a reason. While they may take a little while to download and install on your device, they are worth it. So, the next time that grey box pops up on your screen saying there’s an update available, click on it. It’ll keep your tablet or laptop secure and up-to-date with your software’s latest features. Image credits: Getty Images

Technology

5 appliances you’re shortening the life of through misuse

Buying electronics and appliances can be a huge investment, and when something goes wrong with them, it can also cause a huge headache. So, of course, you want to keep everything working for as long as possible. While many of us blame the seemingly shorter lifespan of these products on the fact that things just aren’t made like they used to be, that’s not entirely true. It turns out that much of the time, the culprit is us! Read on for the mistakes you probably don’t even realise you’re making, which can cause the early demise of everything from your laptop and your phone to your stove and your toaster. 1. Laptop There’s nothing more frustrating than a laptop that goes from on the fritz to suddenly needing to be replaced. It turns out the key to keeping our laptops longer is turning them off at least once a day. This allows the operating system to install software updates and patches so everything can run smoothly and up to snuff. Another mistake that causes the early demise of this essential and expensive device? Failing to install anti-virus and malware programs. 2. Smartphone If you feel you need to replace your smartphone way before the newest one comes out, it’s probably because you’re letting it overheat. According to PCMag, a major cause of this is something most of us are guilty of: charging our devices overnight. In fact, your phone is at risk of overheating every time you keep it plugged in with a full battery. And while many of us know it’s best to leave our phone at home when we go to the pool or beach, water damage isn’t the biggest risk. An article from Time reveals that too much heat exposure from the sun can cause lots of problems, including battery leakage and loss of data. 3. Vacuum No one wants to empty the dirt cup after vacuuming your entire home or even before you vacuum, but an overfilled unit will not only run less efficiently – it will also ultimately shorten the life of the appliance. While most bagless units have a line indicating it’s time to empty the cup, it’s less obvious for bag machines. A sudden decrease in suction is a good indicator. 4. Car A good car doesn’t come cheap, and to get yours to last as long as possible, you can’t skimp on regular maintenance. One biggie: oil changes. If you wait too long to change the oil, you’re asking for trouble. So how often are you really supposed to be doing this? According to Cars.com, it depends on the make and model of your car. Check the owner’s manual. Changing the oil keeps the corrosive material and debris out of your engine, so if you live in a city, it’s best to change the oil even a little sooner than the manufacturer recommends. 5. Fridge If you have a big family and you find yourself with a fridge that’s constantly full, it might be time to consider buying a larger one. That’s because overloading it places pressure on the fan blades, causing them to work improperly or even break. Cleaning the fridge is another way you can extend its life. The coils, the internal mechanism and the outside of the fridge need to be cleaned on a regular basis. Source: <a href="https://www.rd.com/advice/ways-youre-damaging-home-appliances/">RD.com</a> Written by Amanda Lauren. This article first appeared in <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/food-home-garden/home-tips/12-ways-youre-shortening-the-life-of-your-home-appliances">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.com.au/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=RDSUB&keycode=WRA93V">here’s our best subscription offer.</a>

Home & Garden

World’s first laptop unveiled with foldable display

The first laptop with a foldable computer screen could be yours as early as next year thanks to Lenovo. After intense development for more than three years, they’re proud to announce ThinkPad X1, which will be launched in 2020. Lenovo are aiming to make the device to a laptop standard instead of being a regular secondary computer like an iPad. One of the appeals of the new foldable laptop is portability. After the trials and errors with the folding phone from Samsung, ThinkPad has been designed for users to make a full-sized object smaller instead of the other way around. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en-gb"> We came, we saw, we unveiled a wild & bright vision for the workplace of the future. That's a wrap on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LenovoAccelerate?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LenovoAccelerate</a>. Learn More: <a href="https://t.co/wYIimDzM6t">https://t.co/wYIimDzM6t</a> <a href="https://t.co/dvcj6N5S0f">pic.twitter.com/dvcj6N5S0f</a> — Lenovo (@Lenovo) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lenovo/status/1129365266666860544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">17 May 2019</a></blockquote> The 13.3-inch 2K OLED display folds into the size of a regular hardback book and is said to weigh less than a kilogram. Initial reviews of the product have been good, although a lot of work needs to be done in regard to the software and making the folding mechanism sturdier. These were the same issues that were faced with Samsung and their foldable phone. The Verge were thrilled with the foldable feature, saying that’s where the real size savings are. “I got to try out a functional prototype, but there’s not a lot to see at this stage,” said Chaim Gartenberg from <a href="https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2019/5/13/18537302/lenovo-foldable-pc-thinkpad-x1-prototype-hands-on-folding-screen">The Verge.</a> “The screen does fold, as advertised, and Windows worked well enough as a touch interface. But the real magic here — if it happens at all — will come with software and optimizing things to run on the unique form factors that a folding screen can provide.” <img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7827346/lenovo-book.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/586cb3f21ce5490381319448970ceb93" /> The foldable ThinkPad compared to a regular 13-inch laptop Photo credit: <a href="https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2019/5/13/18537302/lenovo-foldable-pc-thinkpad-x1-prototype-hands-on-folding-screen">The Verge</a> Reviewers were asked not to take close up photos of the hinge mechanism for the device just yet. Lenovo is also well aware of the issues that happened with Samsung’s foldable phone and have been doubling the amount of testing for their laptop hinge. As of yet, there is no official release date for the ThinkPad X1.

Technology

How to outsmart your salesperson when laptop shopping

Lisa Du is director of <a href="https://readytechgo.com.au/" target="_blank">ReadyTechGo</a>, a service that helps people gain the confidence and skills to embrace modern technology. Muddled by the tech terms used by the salesperson? Not sure what Ram, SD, Intel means? From time to time, we hear of clients being sold laptops that are not appropriate, because the sales person used tech terms to glorify a particular laptop, or sell something that is not required. We're here to help you understand these terms, so that you can choose the most suitable laptop to suit your needs. What will you be using the laptop for? We always ask this question, because if you use your laptop to do basic functions such as: <ul> <li>Browse the internet</li> <li>Viewing photos</li> <li>Emails</li> </ul> This is very different to someone who is using their laptop for Video Editing or Work. Based on what you use your laptop for, these are the important features you need to consider: <ul> <li>Choose a PROCESSOR</li> <li>Choose RAM Amount</li> <li>Check HARD DRIVE storage space</li> <li>Find one that you like the look and feel of If</li> <li>Have a budget and pick a computer which matches your budget</li> </ul> Processor Processor is the brains behind your computer. Choose a processor from: Intel Core i3, i5 or i7. The processors have different capabilities which you should match to your own usage needs. The numbers refer to their processing power. Core i7s are better than Core i5s, which in turn are better than Core i3s. AMD Processors are generally cheaper processors, and Intel processors are more powerful. If you see Intel Dual Core - this is like having two brains! RAM RAM stands for Random Access Memory, and is like your brains short term memory. Your short term memory can only hold so much information, and your computer is the same! The more RAM in your computer, the more functions your computer can perform. If you find yourself frustrated at how slow your computer is working once you having multiple applications open (such as email, internet and photos), it generally means you don't have much RAM If you love to multitask (like me! I have over 30 internet tabs opened at once), you definitely need at least 8GB RAM. Hard Drive Hard Drive is your computers long term memory. This is where all your computer information is stored. Think of the hard drive like your stomach. How much food can you fit in? The larger the hard drive, the more information it stores! (The bigger your stomach, the more food you can fit in!) If you are someone who loves photos and storing photos... you definitely need a bigger hard drive. You can buy computers with SSD (solid state) or HDD (hard disk drive). Both types do the same job. Generally speaking, SSD drives are faster than HDD and more expensive in terms of dollar per gigabyte. Example: A computer with SSD drive will boot up in less than one minute (often in seconds), whereas a computer with HDD drive will require time to speed up to operate and be slower than SSD during normal use. The look and feel Lastly, you need to enjoy using your computer or laptop so aesthetics can be important. Choose a device that you like the look/size of! Hope you found this tip helpful when choosing your next computer!

Technology

Common household item caused Melbourne housefire

A common household item has been blamed for the housefire in suburban Melbourne on Sunday night, with fire officials warning homeowners to be wary. Firefighters arrived at the home in suburban Canterbury after the occupants had already extinguished some small spot fires in the residence. The laptop was quickly identified as the culprit which, as firefighters noted, was fitted with an after-market battery purchased online. Fire officials said the computer had probably overheated after being left charging for too long. "We don't recommend that any appliance be left on continuous charge," Fire Investigator Damian O'Toole told 7 News. "That includes iPhones, iPads and any laptop computers." Have you ever had to deal with a housefire?

Insurance

US heightens security to avoid laptop ban

Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly has revealed enhanced security measures for foreign flights arriving in the United States. Officials say these security measures will prevent an expansion of in-cabin ban of laptops and other large electronic devices. “Inaction is not an option,” Kelly said, explaining that he believes airlines will comply with the new screening. Kelly explained that the measures will not be the last step to tighten security. Officials are requiring enhanced screening of personal electronical devices, passengers and explosive detection for the roughly 2000 commercial flights that enter the United States from 105 countries. There will also be more thorough screening at checkpoints and increased use of security technology, canines and preclearance locations. The decision not to impose new restrictions on laptops is a boost to US airlines which feared the ban would cause logistical problems and deter travel arrangements. Kelly noted that airlines that fail to comply with new security requirements could still face future in-cabin electronics restrictions. European and US officials told Reuters that airlines have 21 days to implement increased explosive screening and have 120 days to comply with other security measures. In March, the United States imposed restrictions on laptops on flights originating at 10 airports in eight countries including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar and Turkey. This came amid concerns that a concealed bomb could be installed in electronic devices and taken onboard a flight. Britain followed suit by implementing similar restrictions. Homeland security officials said those 10 airports can be removed from the list if they meet the new security requirements.

Travel Insurance

Your handbag or laptop could be included in your carry-on limit

A shocked Jetstar passenger has recently complained that they have been hit with a fee for going over the airline’s carry-on weight restrictions after their handbag was weighed. The passenger received a $50 fee for going over the limit and took to Jetstar’s Facebook page to complain about the situation. <img width="490" height="257" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/37050/jetstar-in-text.jpg" alt="Jetstar In Text"/> However, handbags aren’t excluded from the carry-on weight limit and airlines are beginning to crack down. Jetstar’s policy regarding cabin baggage allows one main item per person and one small personal item, with a combined weight of 7kg or under. A small personal item includes a handbag, a small camera, a laptop in a thin case, duty-free goods and other things. A Jetstar spokesman said that the policy “always included a combination of a main bag and small bag, such as a handbag or laptop case”. In 2014, the airline cut its weight allowance from 10kg to 7kg, which might have added to the confusion of carry-on baggage. When the change was announced, a spokesman said that the airline was eager to keep customers happy and speed up the boarding process. “We know many customers get frustrated when there is not enough room for their bags in overhead lockers. To address this we are reducing the amount of baggage that customers can bring on board, which will align us with other carriers in Australia and across the Asia Pacific region,” the spokesman said. “This change will help speed up the boarding process, enable more flights to depart on time and ensure all customers get their fair share of overhead locker space.” Tigerair Australia has the same policy as Jetstar which allows customers 7kg carry-on free of charge. A Tigerair spokesman said, “The 7kg carry-on allowance may be spread across up to two separate pieces of cabin baggage, including handbags and purses.” “Tigerair’s model is all about providing the lowest fare for the seat, then allowing the customer to pick and choose what optional extras, if any, they wish to pay for,” the spokesman added. “As we are a low cost carrier, we allow you the choice to choose the travel options you want rather than lump you with a one fare fits all — many of our passengers like the fact they are able to tailor their travel to meet their needs and save money on their flight to have more in their pocket to spend when they get there.” Virgin Australian and Qantas allow passengers to have one personal item in addition to the 7kg allowance.

Travel Tips

Demanding dog shuts owner’s laptop in bid for attention

A dog’s life is very tough. After hours and hours of being alone, your owner comes home, only to jump straight on Facebook. For one dog, that simply wasn’t good enough. <iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshyannrachael%2Fvideos%2F10206846736365265%2F&show_text=0&width=400" width="400" height="700" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe> Cheeky pooch Koda has won himself some fans after his owner, Shyann Rachel, posted a video of her sassy dog slamming her laptop shut, captioned, “do you think he maybe needs attention?” It’s almost as if he’s saying, “what are you doing on Facebook? Are you looking at other dogs? There’s a dog right here!” The cute video has been seen almost 5,000 times and dozens of people are saying how much Koda reminds them of their own four-legged friends. Tell us in the comments below, has your dog ever been as demanding as this?

Family & Pets

How to save money on your computer running costs

Many homes have a computer, and once you bring it home you might not think too much about how much it is costing you. But if you are trying to save money, there are ways that you can actually be saving money on the cost of running your home computer or laptop. 1. Ask around before you buy You might think you need a certain type or brand of computer, but in fact there may be better options for you. For instance there’s no need for you to own a laptop if you only ever plan to use it in the same place each time. A great tip before you buy is to ask your friends what they love and hate about their computer. This might give you some insight into what the best option is for you. 2. See if you can get a pre-loved computer Many people upgrade their computers even though their old machine is still in perfect working order. If you are only using your computer for internet searches, email and word processing, you may be perfectly happy with a second hand or reconditioned computer. Check out the local computer store, ask around your friends, or look on sites like Gumtree. You might find yourself a bargain that is ideal for your needs. 3. Let your computer rest when you are There’s no need to leave your computer on, or on standby, when you aren’t using it. The running cost of the power alone could save you serious cash each year in energy bills. Get into the habit of turning the computer off, at least overnight. 4. Give your computer a checkup before replacing it Many computer repair shops can take a look at your computer and tell you if it needs to be replaced or repaired. Sometimes your computer is so full of old files, movies and music that it is slowing down everything else. A clear out of old files as well as a lower cost option like replacing the hard drive (instead of the whole machine) can save you stacks in the long run. 5. Combine and save with one bill Instead of paying for your internet as a stand-alone bill, you may be able to save some cash by joining it up with your home phone or mobile phone plan. Give your current provider a call and ask. Have you got any other ways to save money as a computer owner? We would love to hear from you in the comments.

Technology

How to use your smartphone for wifi

Ever needed internet while on the move? There’s a simple solution for that: use your smartphone! If you want to surf the web on a bigger screen than your smartphone, you can turn your smartphone into a portable wifi hotspot. That means other devices such as your laptop or tablet can connect to your smartphone and use its internet data. The only downside is that since it uses your phone internet data, it can use up your monthly allowance quickly. Make sure that you have enough data to spend otherwise you will most likely end up with extra costs. iPhone 1.Go to “Settings” and then “Personal Hotspot”. Turn it “on” by sliding the button right. 3. Note the network name (the name of your iPhone) and the default wifi password (which you can change if you like) 4. On the device you want to connect with your phone, enable your wifi and search for wifi networks. Select your phone and enter the password. A note at the top of your iPhone will tell you when the networks are connected. Android 1. Go to “Settings” and then “Wireless & network”. 2. Click the check mark beside “Portable Wi-Fi hotspot” to turn it on. 3. Tap “Portable Wi-Fi hotspot settings” to find the default password. You can change your password if you want. 4. On the device you want to connect with your phone, enable your wifi and search for wifi networks. Select your phone and enter the password. Top tip: Make sure you turn off the wifi hotspot feature when you no longer need the internet from other devices, since this will drain your phone’s battery significantly if left on. Related links: <a href="/lifestyle/technology/2015/03/print-smartphone-photos/" target="_blank">How to print photos from your smartphone and tablet</a> <a href="/lifestyle/technology/2015/03/clear-space-on-smartphone/" target="_blank">4 ways to clear space on your smartphone</a> <a href="/lifestyle/technology/2015/03/things-your-iphone-earphones-can-do/" target="_blank">12 things you didn’t know your iPhone earphones could do</a>

Technology

How to avoid eyestrain from your laptop and tablet

Instead of waiting for the symptoms of eyestrain to appear (blurred vision, headaches and sore dry eyes) take the proactive steps to look after your eyes now.Take a blink breakWhen we are looking at a screen our eyes naturally blink less, leading to dry eyes. Be mindful of this and take a break every half an hour to just sit with your eyes closed for 20 seconds – this will help to rehydrate your eyes.Use moisturising eye dropsIf you regularly sit at a computer or use a tablet for long periods, it is a good idea to be proactive and use some lubricating eye drops. Available from the chemist, these artificial tears can help avoid dry itchy eyes later.Lower the lightsIf you are working under harsh bright lighting it can make eyestrain worse. If you can, try using some lower wattage bulbs to make the light softer. Not sure if your lights are too bright? Try putting your hand over your eyebrows (as though you are wearing a visor). If your eyes feel more comfortable, it’s time to dim those overhead lights.Move your workspace aroundIf you need to move your eyes from a document on the desk up to your screen and back, this can cause eyestrain. Try placing a document holder next to your screen so that your eyes only need to move minimally. You can also ensure that your screen is up at eye level where possible, as this will help avoid neck strain.Keep it cleanDust on your laptop or tablet means your eyes have to work harder to see. Keep the screen clean with a baby wipe or a very soft cloth.Related link:<a href="/health/hearing/2015/02/communicating-with-people-with-hearing-problems/" target="_blank">How you can help someone with hearing loss </a><a href="/health/hearing/2015/02/communicating-with-people-with-hearing-problems/" target="_blank">The different types of hearing loss explained</a><a href="/health/hearing/2015/01/different-types-of-hearing-loss/" target="_blank">5 reasons to cherish your sense of hearing</a>

Eye Care

Simple fixes for common computer problems

If you’ve ever used a computer you’ll know problems are just a fact of life, unfortunately. But before you give up on your computer or run to the repair shop, give these five often overlooked fixes a go.1. Restart your computerWhen all the banging and hitting doesn’t work, restart your computer. It seems like the most obvious and simplest of solutions but many people just don’t do it. Computers often encounter temporary problems which a simple restart solves.2. Clear the cache of your internet browserIf you’re internet is playing up, clearing your cache can help. Caches are the collection of recently visited webpages saved to your computer’s hard drive which saves loading time next time you visit the webpage. However, sometimes they can become corrupted and you might experience some errors when surfing the net. Clearing your cache depends on your browser but the option is usually under the “Setting” or “Option” menu in “History.”3. Delete the cookiesCookies are files stored on the computer’s hard drive that contains information about your web browsing preferences. It makes life easier so instead of logging on with your details all the time, it will remember them for you. However, sometimes cookies remember something you’d rather they didn’t or they become corrupted leading to problems. So if your webpages are acting up, try deleting your cookies first. This can be found under the “Settings” or “Options” menu in the “Privacy” or “History” tab.4. Scan for virusesViruses and malware can ruin havoc on your computer or they can be more insidious so it’s not always clear if your computer problems stem from viruses. If it’s not obvious pop-ups, people often forget problems can be caused by viruses so give your computer or laptop a full virus scan to make sure problems aren’t caused by those pesky malwares. 5. Reinstall the programIf there’s just a particular program that’s not cooperating, uninstall and then reinstall said program. Starting afresh often solves the problem.If none of these fixes work it might be time to bite the bullet and call tech support.

Technology

Are you a tablet or laptop person?

If you’re in the market for an easy-to-use device, you can’t go past either a compact laptop or a lightweight tablet. But which one?First it was the clunky desktop computer, next it was the compact and portable laptop and now as the new kid on the block (sort of) iPads, iPad Minis and Android tablets have grown so popular that in 2012, a UK study found Aussies snapped up tablets faster than people in most other countries around the world!Has this meant the humble laptop is losing popularity? Perhaps not. It seems Australians like a bit of diversity with their electronic devices, with 2012 research by Optus indicating that over-60s boast an average of 3.4 devices each! The most common devices being a desktop computer or laptop, tablet and smartphone. But, for many of us, we just won’t use that many electronic devices, so, out of the portable electronics arena, would you purchase a tablet or iPad, or a laptop? Here’s the case for each device.Android tablets and iPadsLightweight, sleek and easy to use, over-60s love their tablet or iPad! It’s no surprise why. Much more affordable than laptops or computers, simple to navigate, big, interactive screens and not too many confusing buttons, who wouldn’t love one of these sleek devices? Plus, they’re easy to take with you anywhere and are light enough that you can pop them in your handbag or library bag.Related link: <a href="/technology/technology/2014/06/a-guide-to-ipads-and-android-tablets.aspx" target="_blank">Learn more about Android tablets and iPads.</a> Developers have also been very thoughtful in the capabilities of these tablets, with users able to expand the type on the page to make words on the screen easier to read. In the case of an iPad or iPad Mini, there’s also Siri. She’ll help you find whatever you need or provide illuminating answers to random questions you ask her.Unlike laptops, you can also take beautiful photographs of wherever you happen to be. Spending the day in a national park with your grandchildren? Get a great photo of everyone and then save it as your desktop image! Easy-peasy.The only downside of tablets or iPads is that if you want to create professional-looking word documents, it’s going to be difficult. It’s better to use laptops if you’re planning on doing anything work-related, since the larger keyboard, screen and functionality to add software, such as Microsoft Office or Mac Office, will make it much easier to get work done.LaptopsLaptops have come a long way since their ancestors – the desktop computer – first arrived on the scene. Smaller, lighter, easier to use and with whizz-bang features (at least with some of the new laptops) of touch screens and a nice big keyboard to type lengthy emails, they are practically unrecognisable compared to older versions of the device.If you’re looking for more functionality with your device in terms of watching movies, typing chapters of your years-in-the-making debut novel, and professionally editing family photographs or home movies, a laptop could be the best way forward. The other advantage of laptops over tablets is their built-in power.Generally, laptops have more powerful processing hardware, which allows for a wider variety of uses, perfect for those multitasking over-60s who like to browse several websites at the same time! Unlike tablets or iPads, which generally all sit within the same price range, laptops can range from $298 for a compact Windows-operated notebook to around $1349 for an Apple MacBook.Basically, if you want to get some serious work done or want to do multiple tasks at the one time, you can’t pass up the trusty laptop.What if there was a combination of both? There is!If you’ve ever dreamed of having the best of both worlds, say hello the hybrid. The most recognisable of this new line of combining a laptop and a tablet is the Microsoft Surface series, which does feature some nifty design elements. Not only is it meant to be lighter than a laptop, but it comes with a thin screen cover which doubles as a full keyboard. Microsoft’s Surface Pro 3 is the newest model available and will be released later this month. It will retail at about $979. It’s on the higher end of the scale and will be too expensive for many people, but may come down in price in the future as another new gadget or device arrives.Whether you’re a tablet or laptop person (or even a hybrid), it’ll come down to how you use or want to use your device. If you’re simply looking to browse the world wide web or keep in touch with your family via Facebook and email, go with a tablet. If you’d like more functionality and the option of saving much more to your device, choose a laptop.

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