What to do if you have a new (Windows) computer?

It's just after Christmas, there are some folks that either have enough money for a new computer (notebook, netbook, or desktop) or was given a new PC as a gift. Either way, before anything else, here are some "important" things to do:

1. Install an Anti-Virus and an anti-Spyware program - most Windows PC comes with either a trial version of an anti-virus or a year's subscription to one. But for those who does not, then get/download one. There are lots of FREE anti-virus softwares out there. I recommend the AVG Free. For casual users this will suffice. Another free anti-virus software is AVAST.

Then go to Google Pack, there's SpywareDoctor included in the pack, download it. But most computers now, be it Windows XP or Vista has it's own anti-Spyware program so no need for this, but check anyways.

2. Download and Install Firefox - again, most Windows PC's will come with Internet Explorer. The security in IE has improved but still, most websites and hackers will target IE because, yes, it still has it's vulnerabilities and simply because it's a Microsoft product.

If you're the social networking type, then Flock is an ideal browser for you. It's got Mozilla deep under it so, it's basically a socially active Firefox.

3. Fire up Windows Update - this will keep your system up to date on the latest fixes from Microsoft.

4. Install an Office Suite - you can get a discounted price of MS Office in your nearest computer store. Or if your skimping on shelling out money, you can always opt for the open source type but as functional as it's Microsoft counterpart. Download Open Office. It has (almost) the same functionalities as that of MS Office for free. But the current version does not support the XML files of the new MS Office Suite. But hey, you're just going to type letters on it.

5. Now that you've optimized your system, let's have fun! Download your favorite Instant Messenger - Most will use Yahoo! Messenger even if these Windows PCs come with it's own Messenger.

6. Install iTunes - even if it's an Apple product, and even if you don't have an iPod yet, and even if your new computer have Windows Media Player already installed, still for me, iTunes is one of the best MP3 applications out there.

7. Then for your pictures I recommend Picasa 3 - it organizes and let's you touch up and share your pictures easily. It even integrates itself to an online version seamlessly.

There you go, these are the "essentials" for a new computer. Other applications will depend on what you're going to use the PC for. Enjoy!

HP Mini 1000

Now I am very jealous of my Mom. I gave her an HP Mini 1000 for Christmas. This is one beautiful netbook. The glossy exterior commands respect. The wide screen is stunning, the keyboard is to die for. Not all netbooks offer this kind of comfort for typing. Even if I praised the ASUS EeePC (which commands some aknowledgement for starting all these), the HP among the ATOM netbooks, has the prettiest and the most functional keyboard.

The size is just right and is very sleek, though the Mini Note 2133 looks sleeker, I don't mind the plastic casing, still beats the MSI Wind and the Acer Aspire One with the design.

The speed is acceptable as this is not going to be used as a powerhouse machine. As with connectivity, pretty good, with WLAN and Bluetooth. The hard drive capacity is fair with 60GB on-board. RAM is ok as well with 1GB power. Two USB slots available as the 3rd one is for the HP proprietary flash dirve. Unfortunately on the downside, the VGA out is non-standard, just like a Mac, one will need an adapter, but you have to buy it, doesn't come with the device.

The trackpad is bigger (my basis is the tiny trackpad of the EeePC), but the trackpad buttons are placed on both sides, unusual for a notebook since most are at the bottom of the trackpad.

The screen (as compared to the 4G EeePC), is, again, bigger but I noticed that the colors are a bit pale. Nonetheless, for the few hours I've used this machine, it's one great deal. I still can't say anything about the battery life, since I've plugged this baby ever since. No benchmark on it.

Will be updating the review as I get used to it. I will be installing MS Office tomorrow. Hope it will work.

SMART's Updated Website

Smart has updated their website. Pretty nice. I always want to see an updated website, especially the contents. It eventually becomes boring when the contents remain the same all the time. I guess, Globe has to follow suit!