Computers

Before the internet became popular, privacy problems were not as rampant as they are today. Although the popularity of the internet nowadays has brought a lot of advantages and convenience to people, there are also some disadvantages that arise such as privacy problems.

If you want to increase or maintain your privacy when you are using the computer, there are some techniques that can be employed. It is always important to prioritize reducing the risk or chances of your personal information being exposed or stolen.

Remember, when you personal information is hacked, a lot of problems can arise and it can lead to a lot of complications, especially financially-wise.

Privacy Problems: Is There A Way To Escape Them?

If you really want to prevent yourself from experiencing privacy problems, here are some ways in which you can do by yourself:

*create multiple user accounts: Usually, a computer is set by default to have only one account that lets everyone share the same set of temporary files, browser favorites, recycle bin, form entries, cookies and other data. By creating multiple user accounts, you can be sure that you have private access to your account. Other users of the computer will also benefit from the creation of multiple user accounts since their files and other important data are password protected.

There is only one thing to remember in using personal user accounts and that is: never forget your password. Aside from the fact that you will encounter more privacy problems and complications when you forget your password, you may also end up not being able to retrieve important files that are located in the password protected account that you have made.

*Use screen saver security: This promotes the eradication of privacy problems by integrating screensavers with a log-in requirement. For different users not to get confused with the existing different accounts, it is highly advisable to use visual reminders for different users to associate specific screensavers to their own accounts.

Although the above mentioned security measures are not that “highly” secure, they still provide moderate protection as well as basic answers to your privacy problems.

For you not to encounter horrible privacy problems in the future, always remember to employ the suggested methods mentioned above. In addition, you should also be a responsible computer user by not leaving important files out in the open for everyone to see as well as not giving out important information right away, especially of you are transacting business online.

For the latest tips to
Optimize PC performance visit our site. We provide independent software reviews, daily PC news and various PC tips and tweaks to help you get the most out of your computer.

Xvid.dll is an application for Windows, and this process can create Xvid.dll error messages on your computer. A DLL is a dynamic link library, and a DLL file will hold data that has been stored in a library which is retrieved and shared by different applications which have a purpose which is basically the same. Because of all the sharing going on between applications, errors may occur. One error occurs when two software programs use the DLL file, and one program is updated. This may cause the DLL file to be overwritten. Now when the software which is not updated attempts to access the DLL file, you will get an error message. There are ways to prevent Xvid.dll errors from appearing.

Xvid.dll Errors Can Be Stopped

One way to prevent any Xvid.dll errors is to ensure that you have a good anti virus program on your system. Any malicious software programs may infect your computer and create a whole slew of error messages, but an up to date and current anti virus program will stop many of these errors before they occur. Make sure you scan your entire system frequently, so that if an electronic infection is on your PC it can be caught and removed quickly, before any damage or corruption can occur. This will stop many of the annoying Xvid.dll errors.

Because DLL files are shared, minimize the number of programs that you have installed. If you have programs which you do not use or need, remove them. This not only frees up some system resources that may be put to better use elsewhere, but it will also improve the performance and speed of your system. Because there are fewer programs, there are not as many sharing the DLL file and so the result is fewer error messages. It is also recommended that you only keep one application or window open at the same time to prevent error messages.

An Xvid.dll error may happen because the DLL file is missing or corrupted, and this is simple to fix. You need to locate the DLL file you need on the Internet, then download and install it on your computer. If the error is caused by the DLL file being missing or corrupted then this will fix the problem. These errors may also occur if you are using older software, so try to update your software as soon as updates become available, because this will help to minimize Xvid.dll errors. These steps will help you keep your PC error free and running great.

The registry of your PC may be full of unnecessary files and pieces, and this can cause Xvid.dll errors to occur. Cleaning out the registry will not only stop the error messages but increase the speed and performance of your system as well. The most effective and safest way to clean the registry is to use a registry cleaner. These software programs will quickly and easily clean your registry with none of the risks that come with manual editing, and the software makes this chore much faster as well, taking a small fraction of the time needed for manual editing. There will be no more Xvid.dll errors on your screen.

Brian Williams is a self-confessed PC fiddler dedicated to ’spreading the word’ when it comes to fixing PC errors and helping people make the most use of their PCs. For FREE ACCESS to more PC tips n’ tricks, just visit Optimize-Your-PC.com.

With all the powerful features come built in with the modern notebook computers, they are threatening the very existence of their desktop alternatives. The modern consumers have practically run out of good reasons to buy desktop computers as they can find all the essential features available with the notebook with no dramatic difference in the prices. Well, despite how close the notebook computers have come to their desktop replacements, some of us still need one or more features which may not be found in the notebooks.

However, this is not a very good reason why you should buy a desktop computer while you can get the same features and even more in a notebook at the same price. I have seen many users complain about the small screen size, absence of DVD burners, and other stuff like that which some standard low-cost notebooks might not have. However, the good news is you can always upgrade your notebook with any accessories you want. Let`s talk about a bit about the common features people have been heard complaining about and how to solve these problems easily.

DVD Burner: Some people crib that the notebook doesn`t have a DVD burner. If you are one of them then you can buy an external DVD burner and connect it with your notebook via the USB port. You will be ambushed with a galaxy of DVD burners; however, you can count on Hewlett-Packard DC4000 External DVD RW Writer. It can convert video from different formats such as Betamax, Digital8, VHS and Hi8. It also works as any other standard DVD writer and burns music, data, photos to DVD and CD. While taking a DVD burner take care of the compatibility of the accessory with your notebook.

Flat-LCD Screen: Few prefer watching their favourite action flicks on your notebook; blame it on the small screen. Take home a Flat- LCD screen monitor and watch your favourite movies in the virtual theatre surroundings. You can search and check for different Flat screen LCDs available and compare their prices. Also check for the contrast ratio, resolution and scanning frequency.

Musical Experience: Listening to music on the tinny notebook speakers is hardly interesting to any music lover. If you are suffering from this problem, buy your notebook a pair of speakers, preferably a model that comes with 5.1 speaker system with Dolby Digital and DTS Hardware decoding. It will offer you superlative sound quality both for listening to your favourite music and watching your favourite movies on your notebook.

Notebook Keyboard: Using the keyboard of the notebook can be tiring and painful for your fingers. How often have you ended up with your finger experiencing an unusual pressure? Even the notebook users may have experienced the generated heat on their hand. An additional keyboard is the best solution for it. You can enjoy the functionality from a wireless keyboard with a separate media pad for accessing. The keyboard combo is also available with a wireless optical mouse have great sensitivity of movements. Keyboards of varied types are available; just you need to find the best for you.

USB Mobile Port Replicator: Of course you are taking a notebook to take it with you wherever you go. But where are you going to plug in all these accessories if you are taking it to some other place. You can`t afford every time to plug them out while moving and plug in again while using. You can sort the problem out with an USB mobile port replicator. Whatever you need to plug into your laptop you can plug into it and plug in the USB mobile port replicator to your notebook.

This article can be accessed in portuguese from the Article section of page www.polomercantil.com.br/notebook.php

Roberto Sedycias works as IT consultant for www.PoloMercantil.com.br

As technology has advanced more and more people have become computer savvy. While some use computers only for emails and games many are using their computers for everything from communication to online banking and investing to shopping. Security of our computers has now become a huge problem as well an enormous market potential. Learn how to secure your computer today and you will rest easier tonight.

It seems there are hackers, crackers, spies, and viruses at every turn. Some only want to learn about your personal preferences in order that they can possibly sell something to you in the future, but others may want to phish your personal information and identity for resale. Still others simply just want to use your computer as a platform to be used to attack other unsuspecting targets. Below you will find a few tips and easy, free, or low-cost steps you can take to help secure your computer.

1. The golden rule of computers is to have backup copies of all important information stored in a safe place; that safe place must be separate from your computer. This includes passwords, usernames, etc.
2. Update and patch your operating system, web browser and software frequently. If you have a Windows operating system, start by going to www.Updates-Free.com and click the download button. This program, ErrorSmart will scan your computer system, detect and correct problems like spyware infections, failed, stalled or interrupted installations, and your PC performance can be improved by as much as 70%.
3. A good firewall is essential in protection from viruses, worms, Trojans, malware and adware. Without a firewall all of those culprits can easily access your computer from the Internet. Careful research should be done prior to the selection of your firewall as some are better than others.
4. Check out your browser settings. I suggest that you set the Internet Zone to High and Your Trusted Sites to Medium.
5. You definitely need an anti-virus software. Again, you will need to do some research. Some of these programs only filter some viruses. Be sure to set your software for automatic updates so you will always have the most current version available.
6. Use filters on your email settings. Do not open mail from unknown addresses or senders. Viruses may be attached.
7. You know the cute little poems, jokes and stories that peoples send from computer to computer? Oftentimes they contain a Trojan horse waiting to infect a computer. Do not be a part of that. Avoid opening those if possible and definitely do not forward them.
8. The Windows systems is automatically designed to hide file extensions for known file types. You should disable the hidden filename extensions. Disable hidden filename extensions. This will enable you to be more likely to see any unusual file extensions that do not belong.
9. This will probably sound strange to you and I admit, I do not always practice this one myself; it is wise to turn off your computer and disconnect from the network when not using it. Your computer would be hacker safe during that time period.
10. This could be your life saver some day, make a boot disk in case your computer is damaged or compromised by a malicious program. Computers crash all the time. Viruses are rampant. Do not be caught off guard! Take this step now and you will be prepared if that dreaded incident ever occurs!

With those ten quick tips you should be well on your way to a more secure computer. Protect your computer and the information you have stored there. Your identity and much more is at stake!

Want to know if your computer is infected? Scan your PC for free by following this link: http://www.FitInsidenOut.com/PCProtect.html

Debbie Allen is a writer, internet marketer (visit: http://www.InternetDivaDeb.com) and personal coach.

The PDAs are the device which contains almost all sorts of features that you may require for advanced communication. It can also be called a mini computer which is equipped with all possible features that makes life easier. The full form of PDA is personal digital assistant.

They are extremely helpful when it comes to storing and analyzing important data. These devices are used all over the world by the busiest business men, doctors and other professionals. The PDA software is precisely designed keeping in mind the various requirements of the users.

There are barcode software, medical software and gaming software. You can get your PDA loaded with the software that you feel is essential for your work or entertainment.

Barcode PDA Software

This is specific software that is designed for the enhanced performance of the instrument. This software is quite fast and handles the data accurately. It can transmit the processed data and collect them as well which is a very helpful feature for the professionals who are heading an organization.

This program will give you uncomplicated arrangement of database. You do not need to be a skilled programmer to handle this PDA software as they come with manuals which contain all details that you need t o handle it.

You can also use this particular software for tracking documents, inventory and fixed assets. There are many websites which offer free download of this barcode software.

PDA Medical Software

There are many doctors who prefer using the PDA devices with the extremely helpful software for their work. The busiest doctor is the person whose chamber is always filled with patients and this becomes very tough top remember the details of the patients.

The conventional way of doing this with the pen and paper is simply outdated as this consumes a lot of precious time. This is the reason why now-a-days the doctors use the right PDA software to record the names, descriptions, ailments and medicine prescribed to them. He can retrieve any o f the information within a few seconds on his own when his PDA is loaded with the right medical software.

This is equally helpful for the nurses as well. Using this “Medical palm software” where they can get to see the details of 241 diseases at the same time.

The software is also available in various languages including Spanish and English which makes it more popular. If you are interested in PDA games then there are many of the gaming PDA software that can make you really happy.

These are just a few of the PDA software. There are many moire which can turn your pocket computer into a faster and smoother acting device.

April Kerr owns website Emcon Emsys which has details of where you can buy PDA phones, cheap PDA batteries and discount Toshiba PDAs.

If you are like me you understand that Adware, spyware and computer viruses are all bad for your computer but you do not really know the differences between them. Until recently all I knew was that I wanted my computer to run efficiently and do what I wanted when I wanted it to.

I really was not too concerned with anything else. That is, until I started having problems, big problems! Not only was my computer running slower but it was freezing up! I was told by different people that I needed to try to locate where I had downloaded my problem.

I began reading about the three possible culprits, Adware, Spyware, and Anti-viruses. I found out that Spyware is software that does not harm your computer, at least not intentionally. Spyware creates pathways in which someone other than the computer owner can communicate with the computer.

The normal function of Spyware is to record the various types of websites that you visit; this information is used by web advertisers. Of course they will be sending you unwanted emails and pop-ups. So essentially Spyware is not good but it does not harm your computer.

That is your word of warning, avoid Spyware whenever possible! As the name implies, Spyware actually have their own programs that allow them to record your keystrokes, scan your files, look at applications you use, and even your Web browser settings. What an invasion of privacy! In some cases the Spyware author may even sell this information to advertisers or other parties, thinking nothing of taking such liberties with your information!

So how do you know if your computer is infected with Spyware? One clue may be that it suddenly slows downs. This slow down effect would be very noticeable. Other signs include pop-up ads that are not related to the site you are viewing, very often they are ads for adult content. Your basic desktop may take longer than usual to load. If you notice any of this I suggest that you scan your system immediately

Let us talk about Adware now. Adwares are often legitimate forms of freeware. However, you need to be aware that adwares are advertising materials which are pre-packaged into a software or program. This means that the advertisements are installed automatically when the particular software or program is added to the computer application.

Okay, now for the worst of the three, the dreaded computer virus. Computer viruses can be very destructive. That is what they are designed for. I have no idea what pleasure the creator gets from that but none the less that is the purpose. Just as with a human virus, a computer virus infects as many of the applications and components of the computer that it comes into contact with as it initiates self-replication. But it does not stop there; a computer virus can be passed from one computer to another and another, that is how you got it, right?

There are many products available today that offer protection for your computer. But even those products do not insure your complete protection. Some only provide Spyware and Adware scanning and others claim to focus on particular computer viruses. It is wise to scan your computer often. Use a good protection system, including a firewall system.

Want to know if your computer is infected? Scan your PC for free by following this link: http://www.FitInsidenOut.com/PCProtect.html

Debbie Allen is a writer, internet marketer (visit: http://www.InternetDivaDeb.com) and personal coach.

Windows XP is one of the most current operating systems, and as such it is one of the most popular operating systems available. Millions of users around the world use Windows XP every day, and this operating system is one of the best and most powerful you can find. There are some errors that can occur, however, and there are some things you can do to prevent errors and optimize the performance and speed of your system. By following these steps you can keep your Windows XP system running great and error free.

Install an anti virus program on your PC to detect and remove any harmful programs which can cause problems. This step is important because some viruses not only harm your files and data but can actually cause physical damage to your hardware, causing it to need replacement which can be expensive. Make sure the program you choose offers updates, so your definitions stay current and you are protected against the latest PC threats. It is recommended that you scan your PC daily, or at least three to five times weekly.

Use a good anti spyware program, as well as an anti virus program, because spyware is one of the biggest causes of Windows XP errors and system problems. These programs run quietly in the background, so that you are not even aware that they are there. Spyware usually installs without the user’s knowledge or consent, and can cause serious problems and risks. Some of these programs can even record any keystrokes you make, giving others access to private and confidential information such as account passwords and sites visited.

Only keep one window or application open at a time, and this will optimize your system performance. When you have more than one thing open at a time, it can create errors and system slowdown. It is also advisable to remove any unnecessary or unwanted programs from your PC, so that these resources can be used somewhere else. This will help to increase the Windows XP system speed and performance as well as stop some of the errors.

Windows XP and Registry Cleaners

Keeping your registry clean will take care of any Windows XP errors that occur. This step is recommended by the computer experts to stop error messages and optimize your system performance and efficiency. You could manually edit the registry by hand, but this is not a good idea because there are serious risks involved and it can take an extensive time to do, not to mention a massive amount of effort. Instead use a registry cleaner, so that you can clean your registry quickly and efficiently without any of the risks.

A registry cleaner comes with a simple interface that is easy to use, and only requires a minimum of effort to start. You simply download and install the program, and then run it. The software knows which entries to remove and which entries are needed by the operating system and installed programs, so there is no risk of any mistakes being made. Using a Registry Cleaner will help optimize Windows XP and keep things running great.

Brian Williams is a self-confessed PC fiddler dedicated to ’spreading the word’ when it comes to fixing PC errors and helping people make the most use of their PCs. For FREE ACCESS to more PC tips n’ tricks, just visit Optimize-Your-PC.com.

Every computer user should know at least a bit of computer troubleshooting. There will always come at time when you need to do some computer troubleshooting of sorts to meet an urgent need of your computer.

Before resorting to taking your computer to a computer repair guy or calling a technical support, it is best to try a few simple computer troubleshooting techniques first.

If you have been using your computer for more than a year now, it is expected that you know your computer well enough to be familiar with its basic information such as brand, model, processor, RAM or memory, operating system you are using and hard disk capacity.

You need to keep in mind that every detail prior to a computer error counts. Try to recall what you’ve been doing before the error occurred and note them down to make it easier for you and the technical support people to determine what troubleshooting strategy to use.

Computer Troubleshooting In Few Easy Steps

If you are quite familiar with your computer’s performance, you will be able to determine the right button to push and the correct tweaking to administer. But for now, here are the basic easy-to-follow steps that you can routinely practice in case errors persist.

1. Try rebooting first your computer. It’s no surprise that rebooting resolves most errors.

2. Update and run your anti-virus application. If you have an active anti-virus it will automatically update while you are online.

3. Determine the error- if it is a network, software of hardware problem. If you’re having trouble accessing the internet, surely enough it is a network error. You can also check the network status or connectivity of your computer by looking at the network icon on your system tray. It should be active and both computer icons should have blue lights.

4. Check the cables that are attached at the backside of your computer tower. Sometimes we overlook this, but it happens, so it’s best to check as part of this routine.

5. Check the hardware attached to the power supply. All should have their lights on when the power supply is turned on. If there are lights on, check if the computer will start and if sounds will come out of your speaker. If nothing happens, there could be a problem with your power supply. You need to replace you power supply and not use it to try and check your computer. Seek a computer repair man’s help.

6. If your computer hangs up on you, reboot your system and immediately press F8 to put rebooting into safe mode. Uninstall the last application you installed to see if this is causing the problem.

If in case still nothing happens to your computer, you may seek the help of a computer repair man or an online technical support. You can supply your findings to them to make it easier for them to do computer troubleshooting.

For the latest tips to
Optimize PC performance visit our site. We provide independent software reviews, daily PC news and various PC tips and tweaks to help you get the most out of your computer.

Windows XP errors may happen frequently, and these errors can be a great source of frustration and confusion for some users. The Windows operating system is one of the most popular operating systems available, and it is very powerful. Windows errors can range from minor annoyances to critical errors that will greatly impact your system. Millions of users use Windows XP daily, and preventing these errors are a major concern for all of them. There are things that you can do to prevent these error messages, and make your PC run faster and perform better.

The first thing you need to do is to eliminate any unnecessary or unwanted programs that are installed. The more programs that are installed, the more errors that can appear. Many computers are bought new and come bundled with many different software programs, some of which you may never need or use. Removing these programs will free up resources that your system can use somewhere else, and will also get rid of some of the Windows XP error messages. This will also cause your system to perform more efficiently and run faster.

What Causes Windows XP Errors?

Windows XP errors can be caused by a wide range of things, including electronic infections from viruses and other malware programs. Make sure that you have an anti virus program installed, and this will prevent any electronic infections from corrupting your system and doing any damage. An anti virus program will also eliminate many of the error messages you get from Windows XP. Keep the virus definitions up to date, because new malware is created frequently, and the software program must be updated to be effective.

One method that may work to eliminate these error messages is to use System Restore, and return your system to an earlier configuration. Sometimes this may prevent the error messages from occurring. System Restore will allow you to change your computer to the settings from an earlier time, a time when the error messages were not happening.

Spyware can be a frequent cause of errors too. These programs are usually downloaded and installed in secret, without your consent or knowledge. These programs will run in the background quietly, without the user even being aware of them. An anti spyware program will detect and remove these programs, keeping your PC secure and improving the speed and performance of your system. When you have anti spyware installed, you will receive a lot fewer error messages concerning Windows XP.

Using a registry cleaner can eliminate all of the errors that are displayed, making your computer experience much better and allowing your system to function more efficiently. The registry has critical components that should never be removed, because they are needed for the operating system and other crucial programs. Manually editing the registry is not recommended because of this, but a registry cleaner will clean the registry in minutes, with no chances of any mistake being made and your system crashing or failing. The registry cleaner is the best way to clean the registry, and the risks involved are not high, like they are with manual editing. This will prevent Windows XP errors from appearing.

Brian Williams is a self-confessed PC fiddler dedicated to ’spreading the word’ when it comes to fixing PC errors and helping people make the most use of their PCs. For FREE ACCESS to more PC tips n’ tricks, just visit Optimize-Your-PC.com.

Just think without software nothing would work. It’s the be all and end all of how we interact with computers. Beyond the rather boring element of the operating system itself, I mean who wants to get excited about Windows Vista, software allows you to manage your music, edit your photos, write documents, view the web. It’s everywhere.

So what makes a good software package and what are the ones you should be using to do the task at hand? Here are some suggestions for both PC and Mac users:

Storing and managing photos.

When it comes to storing and managing your photos on your computer there are lots of options both online and offline. Online there are a number of photo services such as Photobox or Kodak’s EasyShare gallery, including the newly launched Adobe Photoshop Express service, and that’s before you start looking at Flickr from Yahoo and Picasa from Google. Offline and one of the best solutions for the PC is Adobe’s Photoshop Elements software. Simple yet effective there is plenty here for the digital photographer. The interface is clean and crisp and there are some really good features like the photo merge option and the flash based web galleries that will make this appeal to lots of people. On the Mac the best option for consumers is Apple’s own iPhoto application. Although you can now get Adobe’s elements for Mac, iPhoto does virtually everything you need including allowing you to make and publish your own book or website.

For Music.

Chances are you have a large music collection and there are two really good music programs for the PC and the Mac to help you manage it. For the PC it’s the incumbent music application; Windows Media Player 10. The software will manage you music, let you connect it to virtually every MP3 player (apart from Apple’s iPod) to transfer songs and also is again virtually guaranteed to work with music subscription services (although again not with Apple’s iTunes) so you can buy tracks or rent tracks online. On the mac there is really only one option, Apple’s iTunes. It allows you to manage your music, is the only player to work with the company’s iconic iPod MP3 player and also allows you to buy video and music through its iTunes store, which has recently become the number one music store in the US.

For the Office.

Like storing and managing your photos, their are a number of solutions on and offline to help you write documents, manage spreadsheets and give presentations. Microsoft’s office for Windows and Mac is very impressive, offers lots of features and will get the job done. The trouble is that it’s also very expensive. If budget is tight, as in non-existent then you can opt for Google’s online offering, which has the benefit of being able to be managed by a number of different workers at the same time. Alternative there is Open Office a free office application that offers a document writer, spreadsheet program and other bits and bobs so you can still write letters of resignation or find out much you’ve got in the bank.

For Surfing.

Although there are plenty of browsers for surfing the web and the market leader is Microsoft’s Windows Internet Explorer you really want to be surfing the Internet using Mozilla’s Firefox. Firefox is an open source browser that allows you to bolt on third party applications it’s the way to surf the web quickly and effectively, and tab browsing, if you aren’t already using it, will revolutionise the way you surf the internet forever.

Without these essential pieces of kit undoubtedly our computer usage would be considerably more difficult.

Technology expert Thomas Pretty looks into the importance of software reviews when purchasing programs for your computer.

My first printer was a dot matrix model that looked and was the size of a vacuum cleaner. In fact it made about as much noise as one to. Today however and printers are very different beasts coming in a variety of shapes and sizes and offering to meet a variety of demands from the office machines that churn out 1000s of pages a minute to photo printers at home that save us from having to go to the developing lab to print out of favourite images of family and friends.

So what’s what in the printer world? Well HP has a range of photo printers that promise to get the job done. The company has two ranges that it focuses on - its all in one models aimed at small medium businesses such as home workers looking to print, scan, copy and sometimes fax documents and a portable range of printers that are the size of a large wash bag. The portable range fondly known within the industry as the toaster range will let consumers print 6×4-inch prints quickly via a computer, a camera through PictBridge or via a memory card. Most of the company’s models feature touchscreen’s so you can see the picture you are printing as well as make slight adjustments like fixing Red-eye.

But HP aren’t the only company to offer printing solutions with a difference, some of Lexmark’s printers come with CD drives built in so you can back up your images without the need for a computer at all. It also means you can print directly from the disk, again without the need for a computer.

Kodak’s unique selling point over its rivals is its price. Ink, which is always expensive, promises to be 50% cheaper from Kodak making a big difference when it comes to managing a budget in an office. The Kodak models might be cheaper to run, but they are big beasts.

The same can’t be said for the Polaroid PoGo. A pocket sized portable printer that comes without ink and is tiny. In development for over 10 years, the printer offers users the chance to print business card sized (2 x 3 inch) colour photos from their mobile phone via Bluetooth or digital camera via PictBridge without the need for a computer. The size of a large smartphone (0.93 x 2.83 x 4.72 inches), the Polaroid PoGo printer uses thermal printing meaning there is no ink needed.

Instead users will use Polaroid’s specially designed paper, which will cost an expensive 3 pounds for 10 sheets. The process takes just 60 seconds from pressing go to a print in your hand and the photo paper will have a sticky back so you can stick them to your mates, the wall or anything that moves. The printer does come with a lithium-ion battery, however it will be able to print just 15 images before needing a recharge.

Of course if none of those sound your cup of tea you could always opt to get everything printed online. Kodak, Photobox and a number of other companies offer to print your images for you and then send them in the post. You can even use the image galleries online to publish books, t-shirts, photo mugs or wall paper with your ugly mug on it as well as push them to a digital photo frame saving you having to print them at all. All this is a long way from my first dot matrix.

Technology expert studies the importance of valid printer reviews when buying a new printing device.