Good evening to all, as most users here in the DMV know, I have been providing a blog about Technology here on Active Rain for the last year or two. As of this evening, I have created an outside blog using google's blogger. I made it specifically for Maryland, DC and Virginia Computer Users. it will include information on local IT news, and problems, and will also give some real estate technology information as well. http://marylandcomputermaintenance.blogspot.com/
I hope you will bookmark it and check in often! You can also add an RSS feed too!
The Blackberry Storm, Just Released from Verizon Wireless
In my previous blog "Taking the World by Storm...The First TOUCHSCREEN Blackberry" I wrote about the upcoming Blackberry Storm, the new touchscreen blackberry. I wrote about the features, benefits, and had great discussion about it. Today, however I got my hands on the brand new blackberry! Here is a quick review.
First off, I need to say that I have been looking for a replacement of my current PDA phone Audiovox XV660 Windows PDA for a while now, but nothing has gotten my attention, had the right features, or a large enough screen until now. I have loved these features about my phone: Slide out keyboard, LARGE touchscreen, Windows mobile (great for my IT needs-Remote Desktop Connections, software compatibility, email and internet browsing)
I have done ALOT of reading of reviews and specifications of the new blackberry. It is a really well built phone, there is a ton of excitement about it, and upon entering verizon today, I noticed several on display (all being gawked up). Several employees at the store already had the Storm and they let me demo their personal phones (you really get great support and information from Verizon--some of the best employee's around)
The size of this phone is amazing, slightly thinner than my XV6600, and slightly shorter, and since it has an onscreen keyboard (will discuss that in a minute) it stayed one size since it didn't have any parts that slid out or moved
A nice sleek black design, and with no moving parts, I knew this phone would be trouble free as far as that went (I've had many clients as well as myself who have had their phones replaced multiple times because of the slide mechanism failing or starting to fail...nothing is worse than trying to hold the phone up, and attempting to type a message at the same time)
The Touchscreen - WOW! the icons were very easily seen and clickable via their size--they were not super tiny like on the palms or the windows PDA's. There is no stylus to lose on this phone, everything is activated via your fingers. You also don't have to worry about pressing buttons while in your pocket because the phone's screen works off the electrical current in your fingers.
Typing on the touchscreen - Hmm this took a bit of getting used to, you really have to press down on the keys for them to actually work, and sometimes you hit other keys, but you learn quickly. Plus the associate also showed me that the sensitivity and speed can be adjusted for the screen/keyboard, which when I made a slight change I liked the keyboard much better. I will still miss my actual keyboard, but I am looking forward to using just the touchscreen.
Applications - there are a ton of applications on the phone and available for download, Social networking is great on this phone with built in apps like facebook for blackberry, making it very easy to keep in touch in the real estate and business world.
Video and Audio playback - WOW!! I watched part of a movie on this phone, and it was definitely HD quality, I have NEVER seen playback on a phone like this before! You will be impressed.
Email/Texting - It's a blackberry, enough said! Blackberries are world renowned for email and texting capabilities. There is no difference here with the blackberry storm!
Battery Life - They say 5 hours talk time and 15 days standby, and although I haven't played with one long enough, I have no reason to doubt them...blackberries always have good battery life
Overall Feel - I liked how the blackberry felt in my hand, very easy to use with one hand - just touch and click the application of choice.
Availability - Verizon Wireless only. Which is good for me, I love their service, I travel alot and go to many places outside of Metro area's and never have an issue. The phone however is mostly out of stock (big shocker there!) But you can put your name on a list, they usually come in within a few days, or you can order from Verizon Wireless online (like I will be doing within the next few weeks)
Should you get one now? Well as with any technology or software, I always say to wait a while for good reviews to come out, and for them to be widely tested and for bugs and kinks to be worked out. I will order mine mid december, that will give me a few weeks to really check out the reviews and make a full decision.
And another AWESOME feature: The data package. If anyone has a PDA from verizon other than a blackberry and you have the data package (most people do) you are spending $45 a month for unlimited. The blackberry however has the data package for $29.99 for unlimited, which will save $15 a month. Plus as with any PDA you can connect it to your computer and use it as a high speed modem (such as an aircard from verizon) without the extra cost of an aircard!
Finally the cost: $249.99 Minus a $50 mail in rebate makes the phone $199.99. If you are eligible for an upgrade (like me) you get a hundred dollars off the cost of the phone, making it only $99.99 You really can't go wrong.
Let me know what you think of the Storm or your current blackberry! Your comments are more than welcomed!
Recently Download Anti-Virus Protection? Think you are protected?
Well if you downloaded Anti-Virus 2008 or 2009 or XP Anti-Virus, then you are not protected. In fact these three "Anti-Virus" software packages are actually very harmful viruses/spyware themselves.
What is it?
Spyware/Virus
Rogue software disguised as legit anti-virus protection
How did I get it?
You can opt to download it from a harmful website
You accidently visited a harmful website and the software automatically downloaded without your consent.
How Do I know if I have it?
You can be overwhelmed with Pop-ups
Antivirus 2008 or 2009 will consistently open up and say that it has found multiple (or hundreds) of infections and prompt you to purchase the software to remove it
Balloon pop-ups by your clock will say that there is an infection on your computer, click here to remove
Your REAL anti-virus or spyware software has picked it up and either deleted it, or prompted you that it can't be removed
What harm does it cause?
Well there are several versions floating around, some can collect info and send it back the software maker
It can overtake your web browser and either not display the webpage you requested or will bring up another harmful website
Overwhelm you with pop-ups
Install other rogue software on your computer
Use your computer to infect other computers
Slows down your computer system
Renders your computer useless
Among other many ill effects
How can I resolve this?
It depends on the level of infection
Sometimes it can be removed by your Anti-Virus/spyware software
It possibly can be removed by following steps on the internet
Some PC repair companies can successfully remove it (without reinstalling windows)
But mostly the damage is done, and the infection can really only be 100% resolved by backing up your data and reinstalling windows.
How many people does this affect?
Thousands, probably more than that, I currently fix between 5-10 pc's with this infection a WEEK.
How can I protect myself?
Make sure your Anti-virus protection is up-to-date, if not renew your subscription or download free antvirus from AVG or AVAST!
Make sure windows is up-to-date by running windows update
Carefully type in the web address of websites you wish to visit. Often times these harmful websites where you can contract the virus comes from common websites mispelled (such as mispelled myspace or facebook, and the such)
Use another web browser when possible. When using Mozilla Firefox for example, you are at less risk for contracting the virus (or any virus for that matter) than when using Internet Explorer
I have this problem, but can't fix it myself!
Send us "The Real Estate Tech Desk" a message, we will be glad to give advice or remotely log in and see whether or not it can be fixed remotely or if you will need a complete windows reinstallation
If you are in the Baltimore or Washington Metro area's give us a call or send an email, we would be glad to assist on site, to resolve this issue for you
Contact your company tech support or visit a local repair shop (we recommend not using best buy or circuit city or similar big box stores, because they do not have well trained techs and have long turn around times, not to mention very high costs to perform these services)
This is a major problem, and needs immediate action to protect you, your files, and your clients!
On The Road and Need to View a PDF file from another agent?
Well if you have a Windows Powered PDA or a Palm Powered PDA, you are in luck! Adobe (Maker of Adobe Acrobat, and Aodbe Reader) has a version of Acrobat Reader for the PDA.
Basically you need to download the program, and run the install process. The program will then prompt you to sync your pda/phone and follow the steps on your screen. You will now be able to view PDF files directly on your phone! Imagine how much time this will save you.
Verizon Wireless announced recently the upcoming release of the newest Blackberry: STORM. It is the first ever Touch Screen Blackberry, following suit of most other major PDA phone manufacturers.
My opinion: It's about time! This has been one of the major holdups of not getting a blackberry. I like their battery life, the reliability of the blackberry, the built in features, and ease of use (for most tasks). But have usually stayed with Windows PDA's because of what they can do, plus they have the touch screen, which I find very useful. Upon announcement of the STORM, I decided to do more research on the phone. Here is what I found:
3.25" Touch and Feel Screen - Yes it is a Touch screen, but you also feel your selection, I'm sure its some sort of pulse. Some Verizon phones already have this feature-and it feels and works fine.
Full HTML Browser - Allows you to view most web sites, in either PDA scaled down size, or full desktop PC version (handy for websites not designed for PDA use)
VZ Naigator capable - Turns your phone into a handheld GPS! Whether you are walking through Manhattan or driving through Baltimore, this is a great solution for a GPS unit (for a small monthly fee)
Microsoft Office Mobile - View and Edit Word, Excel and Power Point files no matter where you are, then attach them to email and send them to whomever, or sync to your PC.
PDF Files - View PDF files! Another great tool for Realtor's. How many times have you needed to view a contract when you are on the road?
Visual Voice Mail - One of my favorite new features! Just like on the iPhone, You can see a list of voicemails and who they are from, length and time of call, then you can selectively listen to each message - with just a click!
Battery Life - 6 Hours of Talktime...higher than most windows PDA phones
Memory - It comes with an 8GB micro SD memory card! TONS OF STORAGE! WOW
Broadband Internet Access - Another PDA & Verizon benefit! No need for an aircard for your laptop, just use the USB cable to tether your phone to your pc or use a bluetooth connection to turn your phone into a high speed internet connection for your computer - no matter where you are! (A feature I use alot on my windows PDA)
Built-in Mobile Video and Audio Streaming
Global Capabilities - The phone works in CDMA mode for the USA, and can easily switch to a GSM network when oversea's...great for business users.
Facebook for Blackberry - Built in Facebook program! I'm sure there will be more applications like this for similar sites in the near future.
Too many other features to list!
Phone Release Date: 11-21-2008
There are a TON of features with this phone, and will be extremely handy for real estate agents. I really think this is Verizon's true comeback at the iPhone. However, one feature I would miss on my windows PDA (and which current blackberrys have, which this phone doesn't) is an actual keyboard. This phone/PDA only has a virtual keyboard which is something I will have to learn to love (or hate)
What do you think about this newest Blackberry? What do you like about your current PDA phone? Your opinions are much appreciated.
Are you dealing with a nagging technology issue related to real estate? Can't do certain tasks in Top Producer? Does an error pop up randomly that you can't explain? Spyware and popups continually harrassing you? Need a PC tune-up? Ignoring these problems can really restrict what you can do on the computer, and we all know how much real estate work depends on computers & technology.
Leave a comment below and let us know what your current technology issue is! We will try to resolve it through a blog comment response, hopefully together we can solve your issue or help someone else resolve their issue. If your problem requires further attention, we can arrange a remote access session.
Most Computer Issues can be solved remotely when you use "The Real Estate Tech Desk" - Real Estate Computer Experts! No matter WHERE you are located, we can solve the majority of issues through our remote repair service.
Does your computer run slower than it did when you first purchased it? Do programs and web pages take forever to load? Well rest assure that it's not just you having this problem, almost every computer user will have slowdowns and issues over time with their computers, but you don't have to LIVE with it! Here are a few solutions and items to look for if you notice slow downs and problems.
Memory: Check to see how much memory you have in your computer, alot of Windows XP machines that are a few years old, only have 256MB of memory. This was fine several years ago, as programs that you run didn't demand much memory to run, but as software has updated, new software is released, and users are using more and more programs at one time 256MB is just not enough, heck even 512MB isn't enough for many users. To check to see how much memory you have on board, click on START, RIGHT CLICK on MY COMPUTER, then click on PROPERTIES on the main page that pops up, under the " Computer: " section, it will tell you how much memory that you have. If it is 512MB or less, I recommend a memory upgrade, it is a small cost to pay (less than $30 usually for 1GB of memory - 1GB = 1000MB) It will GREATLY improve productivity and help with alot of quirks associated with low system memory.
Spyware & Junk Software: Here is another big item that the majority of computers have. More than likely there is spyware and other junk software installed on your computer. You may ask how it got there, since you don't think you installed anything. Well most of that software comes into your computer by you installing software you think is legit (or IS legit) but it has other junk software attached to it. Spyware also comes from emails, and from websites that you visit. You may notice popups on your computer, even if you are not in Internet Explorer, this is all from junk and spyware. Now, you can't always get rid of all of that software, but you can get rid of some of it. Visit: www.spybot.com and download it, and run it, and remove what it finds. This will help, but you still may need to hire a professional to properly clean the system, since your privacy and files on your computer may be at risk. A professional will use many different types of software to clean the computer, as well as know-how to access parts of your computer known to store spyware, what I like to call "Hot Spots".
Windows Updates: These also can help with performance, also not to mention fix many flaws and security risks in Windows. You can access Windows Updates by clicking START, then ALL PROGRAMS, then clicking on WINDOWS UPDATES at the top. You can also open Internet Explorer, and type in: http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com. These updates should be done on a monthly basis. Simply follow through the prompts to update your computer.
Up-To-Date Anti-Virus: This is a must! It helps keep your computer running normal, blocks junk software and viruses from attacking your computer. Not only do you need Anti-Virus software, make sure your subscription is up-to-date. Expired Anti-Virus won't do you much good. I recommend AVG AntiVirus (www.grisoft.com) You can download the FREE version (absolutely free) for your home computer, and you can purchase the security center for your work/office PC's. I recommend this over Norton or McAfee, because the cost is less (or free) and it doesn't use as many system resources (meaning it doesn't slow your computer down as much by running the software) Norton and McAfee are bloated software, and they don't seem to release as many updates as AVG.
If your computer is running slow, has popups, or just isn't running properly, give "The Real Estate Tech Desk" a call. We can log remotely into your computer, no matter where you are, and evaluate and fix your computer from our location. Don't fuss with taking your computer in to the store and spending crazy amounts of money that companies like Best Buy and Staples charge, and use a company that will keep your cost minimal, knows the technology needs of real estate professionals and doesn't require you to leave the comfort of your home or office! Call 410-274-4871 or visit: www.defpc.net to contact us today, to schedule a computer cleaning session. We guarantee your satisfaction, and will keep your cost to a minimum!
Choosing a new laptop for your College Student (or yourself)
First I want to Thank Margaret Woda for this blog idea, I was talking with her a few days ago, about a few of her computer issues, and told her how I've been dry with blog idea's. She came up with a few ideas for me, this being one of them... I don't know why I didn't think of this one myself, since I've spent a few days with my younger brother who starts college next week, searching a new laptop for him!
This might be coming late to some people, whom already sent off the students to college with a new computer, but to those who have not, or for those agents who are looking for a new laptop for themselves, this post will have a lot of information for you!
Laptop's have really come down in price since you probably have last looked. Just take a look at Best Buy's, Staples, Lenovo's, or Dell's selections. Laptops starting at $300-400. There are several items you REALLY need to look at before making your purchase for your student... Those are all outlined below. Remember, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at "The Real Estate Tech Desk".
• Brand: Tend to stay with a trusted brand such as: HP/Compaq, Dell, Toshiba, and Sony.
• Processor Type: I ran into this issue the other day with a client, who bought a new laptop, it had a 64 BIT processor. UNLESS you or your student HAS A NEED for a PC with a 64 BIT processor, stick with a 32 BIT processor.... Applications and Devices such as printers, scanners and phones that work with 64 BIT PC's are VERY limited. My client cannot print to ANY machine in his office because none of the printers (10 different printers) support 64 BIT.
• Memory: Since almost EVERY computer now comes with Windows VISTA you NEED a MINIMUM of 2 Gigabytes of memory. I would recommend 3 Gig's, since your student will more than likely be running music or video programs, while running interactive internet programs, games, and of course doing studies ---usually multitasking the entire time. This also applies to you agents out there looking for a new laptop.
• Hard Drive: Minimum of 120 Gigabytes of storage is needed, again for all of the music files, videos, applications, and documents. Laptop hard drives come in sizes from about 120 Gigs to about 450 Gigs.
• Video Card: If you student is a GAMER, I would choose something that does NOT have BUILT IN Graphics, I would choose something that has a NVIDIA or a INTEL graphics chip in it. This will give you optimum performance for games. If you student (or yourself) is not a gamer, I wouldn't really worry about this too much, as all laptops now come standard with a pretty hefty video processor, that can handle your needs, and intermediate gaming support.
• Built In Web Cam: If you want to keep in touch with your student (or with clients) This is a nice option that comes with a lot of different model laptops. Another option is to get a external web cam, but then that is something else your student (or yourself) that has to be lugged around.
• Bluetooth: Most every laptop has this feature, but make sure you get one that has it. This is for syncing phones/PDA's with phones, Wireless headphones, Wireless Mice (most people prefer to use a mouse instead of the touchpad, Bluetooth mice eliminate the need for a plug in device in your USB port.
• Wireless: You don't need to worry about this anymore, every new laptop has wireless built in.
• CD/DVD Burner: Your student (or yourself) with absolutely need this feature, for school reports (some schools allow students to email the reports, but there are times when making a CD is necessary. Most laptops come with CD Burners and or DVD burners. But you want to buy a laptop that has a CD & DVD burner built in.
• Screen Size: I would go with a 14.1 Standard or a 15.4" Widescreen laptop, you REALLY don't want a 17" Laptop screen...it is way too big to carry around (I call 17" laptops, desktop replacements) When you go to the store, you will see the size of the 15.4 is pretty reasonable.
• Weight: Obviously the lighter the better. You or your student will be doing a lot of walking and carrying. If you go to Best Buy, Staples, Fry's or a store of the similar type, ask an associate to unlock the laptop you are interested in so that you can pick it up and feel the size and weight.
• Windows Version: If you are buying for a student, I recommend Windows Vista Home Premium or Basic. If you are buying for you or your office, I recommend Windows Vista Business or Ultimate.
• Price/Budget: This is something you really have to set. BUT As I said before, laptop prices have dropped. Here is an example: Best Buy currently has a Compaq Presario Laptop, with 3 Gigs of Memory, CD/DVD Burner, AMD Dual Core Processor, 15.4" Widescreen, 5 in 1 Card Reader, 200 Gigs of Storage and Vista Home Premium. Now it doesn't have Blue Tooth, but that shows you what a deal you can get for $650.
I hope this helps you choose a laptop for your college student or for yourself. If you are looking for a new laptop for your business, please look at our Agent Resources page on our website for a list of must haves for agents.
Best of luck to you and your student!
David Fox, Owner The Real Estate Tech Desk A Division of DEF PC Services
There have been a lot of blogs surfacing recently about making the switch to Windows Vista, or Windows VISTA OR XP, or Will XP Still Be Around....and comments surfacing like: Xp isn't going to be supported...you have to go to Vista...
Well I'm gonna lay out the facts regarding Vista, XP, and some other pertinent info!
Quick Facts:
Windows XP was released in October of 2001, since then it has undergone 2 service packs, and hundreds of patches, making it the most widely used Microsoft Operating System to date. The majority of software works with windows XP (except for some really old software, that was designed for DOS or 95....even then some of it works in XP)
Windows XP is STILL available in stores for purchase until JUNE 2008 (and who knows, that date could be extended)
Windows XP is STILL available on new DESKTOPS and LAPTOPS which are available ONLINE (Dell, HP, Lenovo, etc.) or through Independent computer shops whom build computers... They will continue to be available for quite some time.
Now onto a big issue on many peoples minds...I might also add that retail store employees have been known to falsify this information (saying XP is already unsupported and such):
Windows XP Support will be available to HOME USERS until 2010, and Enterprise and Business Users through April 2014. Now these are the dates that are being circulated. I might also add, that history shows that Microsoft OFTEN extends these dates. One example: Windows 98. Windows 98 was released June of 1998 and was supposed to have support end in JULY 2004, HOWEVER this date was then expanded to JULY 2006, due to such heavy useage of the Operating System. (Mind you, XP has a stronger usage than 98, so we are more than likely going to see an extension of support for XP)
Why would you choose XP (released almost 7 years ago) versus Vista (released 1 year ago)?
There are many reasons why, but here are the main reasons:
XP is widely supported in the IT industry (software and hardware manufacturers) It is still hard to find Vista Experts
Users prefer the XP Operating System. It's what they have used for years, and have grown comfortable to it
SOFTWARE INCOMPATIBILITY WITH VISTA...yes this is still a HUGE issue, and the main reason why I just ordered my new laptop with XP. There are still TONS of software that cannot run on Windows Vista.
XP is still the industry standard for Operating Systems.
Things to Consider when buying a new computer with Vista:
Does my OFFICE fully support VISTA?
Will the printers/scanners/accessories that I use on my XP machine work in VISTA?
Will ALL of my software work correctly in VISTA?
Does my VPN Software (software used to remotely connect to your office) work correctly in Vista (alot of vpn software currently doesn't work in VISTA)
Will all of the OFFICE EQUIPMENT work in VISTA? (Just because the office supports it, doesnt mean that your favorite printer in YOUR private office will work with VISTA!)
These are all major items that need to be looked at!
I personally feel that VISTA is GREAT for the home user, but currently is not up to par with business users yet. Give it some time, and it will be there! Remember: XP IS STILL BEING SUPPORTED, and WILL BE SUPPORTED FOR YEARS TO COME, and that you can still BUY a computer with XP on it, if need be.
Should you have any questions regarding making the switch to windows Vista, or need support with your computer, feel free to contact us at "The Real Estate Tech Desk"
I'm constantly asked by agents, oh it would be great to have a device that does this or does that. What surprises most agents, is that their "imaginary" "non-existent" device or product, actually exists! As far as real estate technology & technology in general goes, if you can think of it, it probably exists!
One recent example is about going paperless! This agent thought it would be expensive, and confusing...here is the result:
Agent want's to go paperless. How to save paper, and ink! She wanted to be able to take documents or contracts and email them versus printing them. This is actually simply done. Using a free PDF printer software, the agent now can easily print documents, emails, or virtually anything directly into a .PDF file (files that open in Adobe Acrobat Reader) Now the agent can easily store the document on the computer or email it to whomever needs it. The agent also already had a printer/scanner machine which allows her to take paper documents and scan it into her computer---a few lessons on how to properly save the documents, email them and a few other tips, and this agent is now 85% paperless!
Having the proper resources in real estate is essential. Here's your chance to add a tech resource to your arsenal. Add a comment, ask me a question regarding a tech or marketing service (real estate or non real estate related) or a technology QUESTION and I'll give you a answer/solution. I know you've got something on your mind that you wish was possible!
Lets see the type of questions we get here! I bet you'll be surprised with the results!
Disclaimer: ActiveRain Corp. does not necessarily endorse the real estate agents, loan officers and brokers listed on this site. These real estate profiles, blogs and blog entries are provided here as a courtesy to our visitors to help them make an informed decision when buying or selling a house. ActiveRain Corp. takes no responsibility for the content in these profiles, that are written by the members of this community.
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