The desktop computer is not what is once was thanks to the increased popularity of laptops, but it is still a mainstay of personal computing. The value and power offered by a desktop system, as well as the versatility and upgradeability is still unrivaled, making it a great choice for anyone who doesn’t have to move their computer around very often. Today’s desktops come in an incredible assortment of sizes, prices, and performance levels so there is one out there for every buyer.


This desktop computer buying guide will educate you about what to look for when buying your next desktop, on a component by component basis. Desktops are highly customizable so most consumers will able to make the best decision after learning about the parts and then going to a manufacturer’s website or retailer, opposed to narrowing in on a specific model. Today’s computer makers–the Dell’s, Lenovo’s, and HP’s of the world–are extremely competitive with one another so if you have your facts straight, choosing a computer will be easy and fun. After that it’s just about looking for the best price.


Monitor
The monitor is your window to what is happening with your computer. A bigger monitor will be better for media watching and gaming, plus will allow for multitasking. A big monitor isn't mandatory, but it's one of the reasons why you get a desktop.


Recommended:
24-inch LCD display

Minimum:
22-inch LCD display


Operating System
Your operating system is the foundation of your computer's software and something that is being utilized when your computer is on. It's the single most important decision in choosing your computer.


Recommended:
Windows 7 Professional, or alternative OS depending on your needs.

Minimum:
Windows 7 Home Premium


Optical Drive
The drive in your computer that plays optical discs... you know, CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray. Useful for playing video, backing up files, and mandatory for installing some software titles.


Recommended:
Single DVD burner, unless if you want Blu-ray

Minimum:
Single DVD burner


Memory
Computer memory, or RAM, is important for system performance and helps when operating demanding software. This isn't the same thing as a hard drive!


Recommended:
6GB DDR3

Minimum:
4GB DDR3


Hard Drive
Your desktop computer's hard drive is where all your data is stored. You can have different sized hard drives as well as more than one drive within the computer.


Recommended:
1TB 7200RPM

Minimum:
500GB 7200RPM


Video Card
The video card is the part of the computer that enables graphics, including games and video. Normal desktop operations (word processing, email, etc.) don't require much graphics power but gaming and HD video requires much more.


Recommended:
ATI Radeon HD 5850

Minimum:
ATI Radeon HD 4650


CPU
The CPU, or processor, is the brain of the computer. It's the primary factor in determining the power of the system.


Recommended:
Core i7 920

Minimum:
AMD Phenom II X2 550 Black Edition

Right now, at this point, you probably already know the urgency of antivirus software to guard your PC. But to decide which product best suits your needs is a whole different matter. And among so many alternatives being offered all with perplexing technical information, you need to be alert not to fall for the useless ones. In order for you to do some effective comparison, here we list 8 tips when doing an antivirus software comparison.

1. Effectiveness
Figure out how effective the software you are by checking what threats it can eliminate. In this fast moving field of antivirus and antispyware, you want to know which product is able to cope with the latest versions of computer threats. Yes, it is a basic recommendation to have an antivirus with virus, worm, and trojan protection. But if you frequently bank and shop online, you need a software that can protect your sensitive data from being stolen.

2. User friendly (Easy to use)
See whether the product provides an easy to use interface and also whether it comes with a manual or user guide. It is important because even though the software provide with complete features and breakthrough technologies, but if the customization buried deep beneath a pile of complex menus and settings, it is not worth the try.

3. Virus definition and scanning engine updates
As new type of viruses and other malicious software keeps mutate in an alarming rate every day, it is mandatory that a good antivirus software offers a routine virus definition and scanning engine update. For virus definition, daily update has become a general requirement these days. So check if the software offers daily update.

4. Real-time Scanning
Using a product that provides ‘real-time scanning' means that a virus or other malicious software will be automatically detected as soon as it tries to get onto your system. And it will continue run in the background to keep you safe from any threat.

5. System resources consumption
Regarding its vigorous and extensive activity in the background when running real-time scanning, it is better for you to find an antivirus that has low-impact on system resources. Because noticeably, some products may slow down your general computer processes.

6. Know Your Needs
Nowadays, antivirus vendors usually offer various type suite of protection. From basic product that offers protection against viruses, worms, and trojans to the all-in-one security solution that offers protection against all malicious software there are. Not only that, some product even offer online data backup and even PC tune up. But of course the more features a product offers, the more expensive it will be. So the key here is to know exactly what is your need. If you're computer are rarely online, then even the free basic antivirus can accommodate your security need. I recommend AVG Antivirus (Free Version) for this. But if you online all the time and do business with it like banking or shopping, then an internet security suite is a must.

7. Technical support
Find out what kind of supporting services it provides, such as a live chat service, 24/7 call service, or even remote assistance. It is important, because in case the software miss one threat that make problems to your computer (yes, nothing's perfect),you could get help in no time. Or it could be useful when you want to ask about customizing the software to be more-suited your needs.

8. Have a taste before you make a purchase
You should test for yourself whether or not the antivirus of your choice meet their promises. Furthermore, what might seems good to someone, does not necessarily feel quite good for the other. So this is why you should test it out first. And fortunately nowadays, most of antivirus vendors offer trial version of all their security software. These trial software usually have 30 days limited time. But it is enough for you to make a decision.

Now you can make a comparison based on these 8 simple tips I have discussed. Comparing price is logical, but when it comes to choosing antivirus software, it is not just about the price. But one thing to remember is that the more expensive a product is does not necessarily mean better. But it is always a welcome when we found an affordable security products with a solid performance. Regarding this matter, you can check this list of discount antivirus and internet security.

Deep breathing is a relaxation technique that can be self-taught. Deep breathing releases tension from the body and clear the mind, improving both physical and mental wellness.
We tend to breathe shallowly or even hold our hold our breath when we are feeling anxious. Sometimes we are not even aware of it. Shallow breathing limits your oxygen intake and adds further stress to your body, creating a vicious cycle. Breathing exercises can break this cycle.
The importance of good posture cannot be overstated. While sitting, we tend to slouch, which compresses the diaphragm and other organs, resulting in shallow breathing. Slouching also strains muscles in the neck and back. It is helpful to sit in a chair with good back support to avoid fatigue that leads to slouching.
How to do Deep Breathing Exercises:
Sit up straight. (Do not arch your back) First exhale completely through your mouth. Place your hands on your stomach, just above your waist. Breathe in slowly through your nose, pushing your hands out with your stomach. This ensures that you are breathing deeply. Imagine that you are filling your body with air from the bottom up.
Hold your breath to a count of two to five, or whatever you can handle. It is easier to hold your breath if you continue to hold out your stomach. Slowly and steadily breathe out through your mouth, feeling your hands move back in as you slowly contract your stomach, until most of the air is out. Exhalation is a little longer than inhalation.
After you get some experience you don’t need to use your hands to check your breathing.
You can also do the above breathing exercise lying on your back. Deep breathing exercises can help you to relax before you go to sleep for the night, or fall back asleep if you awaken in the middle of the night.
You can also practice deep breathing exercises standing – e.g. while sitting in traffic, or standing in a lineup at the grocery store. If you are really tense and feel as if you are holding your breath, simply concentrate on slowly breathing in and out.
Other relaxation techniques that can be self-taught are meditation and progressive muscle relaxation.

The majority of people in the world want to and try to make a descent effort to stay in shape. There are very few of them who purposely choose to become overweight and out of breath. Most of them have the desire to stay healthy, but the main problem for them is finding the time and ways to stay fit.

Chances are, you may be one of those individuals who do not have a physically demanding job and therefore the majority of your day is either spent sitting behind a desk working on a computer or sitting behind the wheel of a vehicle. Most of us find ourselves caught up in the same routine which consists of getting up at 6am, getting the kids ready for school, taking care of the pets, getting ourselves ready for work and then commuting a half hour or more to get to work. Then we work all day and come home to make dinner, do housework, pay bills and take care of every other thing in between that needs to be done and by this time, we are ready for sleep. We are assuming that all of this is done in an average 8 hour work day, but this is not always true as some people work more than this in a day. So the big question is how can you possibly make time to exercise and stay fit when you are so busy?

The first thing that you have to do is to be creative and find ways to stay fit even when you are behind a desk. You might want to consider replacing your office chair with an exercise ball. This will help you to assume proper posture for your back and it will also help you to strengthen your core muscles which will in turn improve your balance. Do some research and look for different exercises that you can do while sitting at your desk or driving that will tone your transverse abdominal muscles. These are the deep muscles that hold your organs in place and they have more of an impact on the flatness of your stomach than any other abdominal group of muscles. The best thing about these muscles is that you can work them without having to put yourself on the floor. You can engage them by simply sucking in your breath . This can be done while you are behind your desk or a steering wheel and all you have to do is to push your stomach out and suck it partway in and then pull it in towards your spine and hold it for a few seconds before letting out partway.

You should also make sure that you make enough time to get up and walk around while you are at work. Instead of running directly to the coffee pot on your break, consider taking a short power walk around your office building for 10 minutes or so. If you are one of those individuals who work in a tall office building, try riding the elevator to the bottom floor and then head up the stairs as fast as possible . If you are one of those who do not have a long break, try doing a few push-ups or sit-ups to get some exercise and this will not take a lot of your time. For those who have the luxury of an hour lunch break, try taking a walk in your local park or work out for a few minutes at your local health club or gym.

Last of all, you should not rely totally on your vehicle to get you around . If you live within 10 miles or less of your workplace, consider riding your bike to work and if you are fairly close to your job, walk or jog to work . For those of us who absolutely have to use our vehicles to get to work, try parking as far away as possible from your office and walk the rest of the way to get some needed exercise. There are always creative ways that we can look for and implement in our busy lives to make room for some sort of physical exercise that will help us to live and lead a more healthy life .

Mesmerizing colors and perfumes of fresh flowers give a sense of satisfaction to the mind and heart because for a few minutes, the person simply forgets the world and surrenders to the flowers sweet perfumes. There is nothing more special to give on a birthday than a greeting with beautiful birthday flowers. It gives a unique feeling of appreciation to the person who has been greeted with such stunning floral arrangement.

Sending your loved ones flowers of their taste is the best thing they can ever get. However, gifting flowers to the birthday person requires a little bit of effort which can be minimized if you choose to order online. Keep in mind these points while ordering birthday flowers online for someone special:

Taste

Ensure that the persons taste in flowers is met.

To whom are you presenting the flowers

Do inform the Flowers delivery company about your relation with person to whom you wish to send flowers on his /her birthday? For example, your relative, friend, lover, spouse, etc.

Presentation

Make sure to inform the florist company about the way you want these flowers to be reached at his/her place. For example, bucket, bouquet, etc.

Not having good skin is a pain. A lot of us (unfairly) associate having bad skin with having bad hygiene habits even though bad skin is not a sign of whether someone keeps clean. Anybody can experience a breakout.

There is no single cause for acne, which is the reason that everybody gets it. Adult acne is not always as severe as teenage acne but it is more embarrassing so learning how to properly care for your skin is just one of things you have to do as a grown up. Here are some tips to help keep your skin clear and acne free.

Take it easy on your face when you wash it. Scrubbing is bad for you! Scrubbing your face too hard can cause damage and make it more susceptible to breakouts. The skin on your face is incredibly sensitive and easily injured so scrubbing is far more harmful than helpful. Giving yourself scrubbing scars can be very embarrassing! This is why it is important that you take are to wash firmly but gently. This sounds harder than it actually is. Here is a hint: if you have a bright red face after you finish your skin care routine, your routine is too harsh. The goal is to have a flush, but that flush should not be beet red. Go for the glow, not the stoplight effect.

Try not to let your hands touch your face. How often are you aware of the time your hands spend touching your face? Letting your face rest in your hands is just one way to clog your pores. Give yourself a minute to contemplate this. Touching your face after you touch an object is sort of like resting your face on the object that you touched. It is really easy to clog your pores with the oil on your hands when your hands serve as a resting spot for your face. Your face is a prime entry location for germs which is why touching your face is one of the ways that the flu is transmitted from others to you: you touch something that has been touched by a sick person and then touch your face: viola! you have the flu! This is just one reason why touching your face with your hands is a bad idea.

If you find that you can’t help but touch your face, make sure that your hands are always clean! Washing your hands often can help combat acne.

Stay out of the sun as much as you can! Spreading on sunscreen probably seems really stupid if your main goal is to keep your pores free of outside substances. Today there are plenty of oil free sunscreens available.

Protecting your skin no longer means spreading heavy layers of cream all over it. Sunscreens are now lighter and many of them can be sprayed on instead of smoothed on. Even better, many facial moisturizers and cosmetic products already contain sunscreen so you don’t have to worry about purchasing more products. It is important to remember that the old wives take about tanning preventing acne is false!

Keeping your pores clear and your skin clean does not have to be difficult. A twice a day face washing might be all you need. Someone else might need a more invasive facial cleanser. There are also people who choose to fight acne with diet and exercise. Your acne cure will be specific to you and your skin so don’t be afraid to try new things. You need to go slowly–try each acne fighter for a while.

Nothing will work overnight so give all of your trials at least a week or two to start working before moving on to something new.

1. Go to the Youtube video page you want to download.

2. Set the quality of the video you want to download.

3. Right Click on the page.

4. Click on Inspect Element

5. Then go to the Resources Tab

6. Click on Enable Resource Tracking

7. Go to the Others tab.

8. Find "videoplayback" on the resources list. This is the one usually with the longest bar. Then double cllick it, or drag it into the window.

9. Your download will start. Usually, the download will be instant, since the video started to load.

10. Rename your downloaded file, and put a .flv extension to it.

Important

Make sure you have permisssion to download the video and it is not covered by Copyright Law.

A new rose bush can provide decades of beauty and enjoyment if properly planted and tended. The planting requirements for a new rose are both simple and important. The first months in a new home are crucial for the plant’s survival. While it’s true that roses will grow and thrive without the benefit of your expertise, a little knowledge can go a long way.

When you receive your new rosebush, chances are it will be un-planted and its roots wrapped in moss. It is very important that you keep the plant moist and cold until you are able to plant it properly. For example, a basement is an ideal place for an unplanted rose bush. While a rose bush can survive outside of the soil for an extended time, it is also very important that you plant it as soon as possible.

Rose bushes are usually sold in the winter while dormant. They begin to grow and bloom in the springtime and it is crucial that they are planted before this occurs. Your rosebush should be securely rooted in the ground before springtime, when new shoots begin to grow. Generally, March and April are ideal months for planting.

The first step in planting your new rose is finding a good place to put it in the ground. Your rose should get at least 6 hours of sun each day, and should be planted in soil with good drainage. You can check the drainage of your soil with a simple test: dig a hole that is 12 inches deep, fill it with water and wait for the water to drain. Once the water has drained, refill the hole, if it is empty in less than two hours your soil has excellent drainage!

In addition to drainage, roses have other specific soil requirements. They prefer a more acidic soil with a pH ranging from 5.8 to 6.3. If your soil is too acidic—or too basic—you may ask your local nursery what you can add to the soil in order to correct the problem. Pine needles and lime are both acidifying agents that you may find in your own home or garden shed!

If you are planting more than one bush in your garden, be sure that they are reasonably far apart. Remember, they will grow and air will need to circulate between them to keep them disease free. Rose bushes will crowd each other out if planted too close together. The distance between the bushes ranges from two to ten feet, depending on the type of bush. Ask about the specific spacing for your new rose bush at the nursery at the time of purchase.

Weed your garden bed and clear it of plant debris and waste before planting. A clean garden bed means less likelihood of pests and disease ravaging your beautiful roses. They will not tolerate root competition, especially from heavy feeders like grass. Also, if it has not already been done, prune back the roots of your rose bush one half inch; this will encourage new growth.

Soak your new rose bush in water for 24 hours before planting in order to prepare it for the change. Make sure to dig a hole that is at least two square feet for your rose. Build a small mound of dirt in the center of the hole and spread the roots out on top of it. In colder climates, the roots should be buried slightly deeper than in warmer Southern climates.

Once you have planted your rose, mulch the area surrounding it. Remember to leave a space of several inches around the rose clear of mulch. If mulch is placed too close to the plant, rotting can occur. Mulch is organic plant matter that spreads nutrients to the soil surrounding the rose as water runs through it. It is a natural and simple way to improve your soil!

The first few days after transplantation are the most crucial. You should build a small basin of dirt around the base of your rose bush in order to help it to retain water. Water the rosebush daily for the first week after transplantation. After this week, water every three days adjusting to the weather.

Once you begin to see new shoots coming out of the mound of dirt surrounding your rose, it is time to wash the mound away. Your rose bush is growing, this is good! But you must continue to care for your rose throughout its life. Rose specific fertilizers can be found in any drug store and should be added to the soil around your rose bush every two to three months.

By following these planting instructions you are ensuring a healthy, stable rose bush that will beautify your garden for years! A new rose bush is like a baby, while it requires a lot of love and attention at first, it will grow stronger and more independent with time and you will surely be proud of the results! 

A solar bottle light bulb, an innovation introduced in the Philippines by Illac Diaz of MyShelter Foundation, as a cheap alternative to other light sources. It was an ingenious invention by an engineer in Brazil. It is called “bottle bulb” because it is made of an empty 1.5 liter soda bottle and in it is a liquid bleach and purified water that can be used as an alternative electric powered light bulb. However, it is only useful during daytime but its luminance was tested and shown to produce as much light as a 50W incandescent bulb.

How to make your own Solar Bottle Light Bulb?

The materials are the following: 1.5 liter soda bottle, 1’x1’ roof sheet material, purified water, camera film dispenser, chlorine and a rubber sealant.

Procedures

Step 1. Fill the 1.5 liter clear soda bottle with purified water then add 3 tablespoons of liquid bleach and tightly seal the cap. Do not use tap water because this will allow the growth of moss.

Step 2. Make a hole in the 1’x1’ roof sheet material, just the same size of the bottle’s circumference and insert the bottom part of the bottle leaving it exposed under the sunlight.

Step 3. Next, make another hole on the roof of the house (same as the bottle’s circumference) where you want to put the solar bulb and firmly fix the device.

Step 4. Seal the roof with a sealant to prevent raindrops from getting inside the house. It will produce a light when the water inside the bottle bulb refracts and scatters the light inside the house.

The solar bulb is expected to last up to two years before it needs changing.

Watch the video on YouTube

1. Replace old light bulbs with energy saving fluorescent bulbs. They may cost more, but will save you much more in the long run.

2. Turn off all electronic devices that are not in use. Not only turn them off but try to remember to unplug them. You will be surprised how much you will save with this simple step!

3. Air dry your dishes. When washing in a dish washer, the heat generated during the wash cycle is more than enough to dry your dishes.

4. Clean or replace air filters regularly. This can vary depending on the filter you are using. It's important to follow the instruction found on the packaging. If you no longer have it, here are some basic guidelines:

Deep Pleated = Once or twice a year

Ordinary Flat or Pleated = 2-3 Months

Traditional Fiberglass/Polyester = Monthly


It is also important that your air filter fits properly and air is moving through it and not around it.

5. Close vents and doors in unused rooms. No need to cool or warm areas that people are not in.

6. Weather strip doors and windows! Weather stripping is an inexpensive alternative to replacing windows and will save you hundreds of dollars!

7. Wash clothes in cold water. Believe it or not cold water does clean, and many laundry soap manufacturers now offer soaps specifically made for washing clothes in cold water.

8. Repair or replace leaky faucets. A leaky faucet waste upwards of 30,000 gallons of water a year. Thats right, imagine what you would be saving with a quick fix!

9. Wash clothes in the morning or evening when its cooler. Sounds silly but the heat generated by the dryer will warm the house and in the summer months your air conditioner will use more energy to cool your home.

10. When shopping for new appliances invest in Energy Star. Energy Star appliances are not by any means cheap, but the upfront cost will pay for it self ten fold in the amount of energy you will be saving over time.