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Audio Books - Have You Tried Them?

alisongeiser — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 10:58:51 +0200

Have you listened to a good audio book lately? Rather than read a novel, why not listen to one? You can listen to an audio book whilst commuting to and from work, jogging, or participating in any other activity in which you have brain capacity to spare and would like to make better use of your time.

Audio books can be used to educate and entertain, just like their written counterparts. They are available in more or less every topic including Arts & Drama, Biography, Business, Crime & Thrillers, Fiction, Foreign Language Study, Health & Recreation, History, Humor, Juvenile, Radio Shows, Religion & Spiritual, Self Help, and TV & Film. Audio books are often much cheaper than printed books, particularly if they are purchased as digital downloads.

So, what is an audio book? Well, it's just an audio file (MP3 or WAV) that is stored and played on devices such as MP3 players, iPods, computers, and even cell phones (mobile phones). You can also burn the file to audio CD and then play it on your home Hi-Fi or pop it into your in-car audio system and, of course, your computer's CD drive.

How do audio books differ from other MP3 or WAV files, then? In essence, they are no different to song files or podcasts downloaded in these formats. Instead of a song playing, a narrator reads a book.

How can you be sure that audio books are for you? You will only find out by giving it a try. And just like there is no guarantee that you will like the paperback novel bought from your local bookstore, there is no guarantee that you will like the audio version either. But before you spend your hard earned money on an audio book, do some research and find merchants who allow you to listen to (long) samples of your chosen audio book title and offer a money back guarantee. Yes, these merchants do exist! There is nothing more frustrating than to purchase an audio book only to find out that the narrator's voice is monotonous, or the story is told without passion.

When purchasing audio books via the Internet, you might purchase them as physical products, e.g. a CD shipped to your home or office. However, it is more convenient to purchase an audio book as a digital download, if you have a fast Internet connection such as broadband. You get your audio book delivered 'immediately' and avoid problems like the product being lost in the post. As a rough guide, expect 1 hour's high quality content to result in a file size of around 60MB. This should only take a few minutes to download on a moderately faster broadband connection; if you only have dial-up Internet access, it will take considerably longer.

So, the next time you're taking a walk in the park, are on a long and boring train journey to work, exercising, cooking, gardening, or just chilling out, why not listen to a good novel? Remember how you enjoyed your teacher reading you a story at school, or your parents reading you a bedtime story? I am sure you do.

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Download a FREE sample (1 hour's duration in humor category) and/or buy an audio book from a range of over 5000 titles by visiting http://www.easybuyebooks.com and clicking on the 'Audio Books' link. Full money back guarantee. Sample each title (5 mins) before you buy. Get 25% discount using coupon on home page.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dick_Grant

Profits of Using VoIP - Internet Broadba...

alisongeiser — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 11:32:40 +0200

Recently, my neighbor asked me about how to call international long distance with a no-minute charge. He also was interested in learning how to lower his home phone bill. I told him about a phone system called VoIP that would benefit his interest. This article is a brief information to introduce VoIP to you.

First, do you know how many people are using VoIP services? Here are interesting numbers... In 2007 there were almost 65 million worldwide voip subscribers. In the USA, over 16 million US VoIP subscribers, with continue to grow 6-8 million new subscribers every year, about 24 million US VoIP subscribers expected by 2008. By 2010 , US VoIP Subscribers will reach 44 millions, and the number of worldwide subscribers is predicted to rise to over 197 millions.

So what is VoIP - VoIP is standing for " Voice over Internet Protocol ". VoIP also is referred to as Internet Telephony, IP Telephony, or Voice over the Internet, VoIP Telephone, Broadband Telephony, Broadband Phone, Voice over Broadband, or simply Internet Phone.

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a protocol optimized for the transmission of voice through the Internet or other switched networks. It's described as the transmission of voice traffic over IP-based networks, a unique technology that allows us to make calls using a broadband Internet connection ( through broadband modem ) instead of a regular (analog) phone line. At first, the Internet Protocol (IP) was originally designed for data networking systems. Later, with its success in data networking field and the explosion of Internet Era, the IP has been developed in voice networking and nowadays it is bringing us the most profit in this field. VoIP has become more and more popular because of the cost advantages to consumers compares to traditional telephone networks.

A brief explanation on how does VOIP work? - The traditional phone system is using analog phone signals to deliver and receive calls, with VoIP system, it's using digital signals that can be sent over the Internet. If you have quality Internet connection - DSL (digital subscriber line), described as High Speed Internet Service which makes fast Internet connection ) you can get phone service delivered through your Internet connection instead of from your local phone company. In basics, here is how system works:

PC to PC: Computer connects to Broadband Modem connects to Internet connects to Broadband Modem connects to Computer

PC to Phone: Computer connects to Broadband Modem connects to Internet connects to Telephone Network connects to Telephone

Phone to Phone ( using Router ): Telephone connects to Phone Adaptor connects to Router connects to Broadband Modem connects to Internet connects to Telephone Network connects to Telephone

Benefits of using VoIP: There are two major reasons to use VoIP: Low Cost and More Profits

Low Cost: Phone services via VoIP costs less than equivalent services from analog systems. With the traditional analog phone services, users pay a flat monthly fee for the service, and pay other fee for long distance call service plus per-minute charge. With VoIP, the users who already have High Speed Internet service (DSL), can take advantage by using VoIP over this service - Many VoIP Service Providers allow you enjoy unlimited in-network calling - it means you can call any other in-network customer without charge. Other companies allow you to call any number, including local, long distance, mobile, and international numbers. For International calling, the users who using VoIP can get big savings with lower rates. Depends on each VoIP service offer, you can enjoy unlimited calling worldwide to many destinations for a flat monthly fee with no minute charge or low rates.

More Profits - Compares to analog phone networks, VoIP has more advantage functions. You can make calls from your personal computer to other's computer or other's regular phone, or you can make calls directly from your regular phone to other's regular phone. Besides, The digital signals let you enjoy high quality voice and many advantage services such as Voice Mail, Caller ID, 3-Way Calling, Call Waiting, Speed Dial, Repeat Dial, Do Not Disturb, Call Forwarding, Emergency 911 Service, Online Account Management, Virtual Calling Card, access the service to your cell phone...

Further more, Incoming phone calls are automatically routed to your VoIP phone where ever you plug it into the network, so you can take your VoIP phone with you on a trip, around the world - anywhere you can connect it to the High Speed Internet, you can call and receive your incoming calls anytime. The VoIP Router can be set up anywhere with High Speed Internet, it provides you the advantage of savings. For example, a VoIP provider allows you get the US number and connect the router outside of the US. So when you call to that number, just like you call locals, and the person who is in other country calls you by using this service (connected through router) just pay a very small charge per minute, or sometimes it's free.

Loi Nguyen is a freelance writer, webmaster and internet, direct mail marketer since 1996. Visit VoIP Service Source, also Online Shopping Source with listing of helpful information on shopping stores, personal or business products and services. Foryoulist.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Loi_Nguyen

Try Before You Buy, Try Out the EverQues...

alisongeiser — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 11:04:30 +0200

There are so many MMOs these days that it is difficult to decide which online game you should choose. Even if you would like to, you can not try them all because you have not enough hours in one day, and the monthly cost would be enormous. It's just not practical to buy all the licences for the games you might, or might not, like. The games all have unique playing styles and communities so the best thing you can do is read about the games and when you have decided what game you would like to take a closer look at, for example EverQuest, you download a (free) EverQuest trial and you can play the game for 14 days.

Instead of paying, thirty or more dollars for the game and then fifteen for the first month of game play, for a something that you may possibly not enjoy, EverQuest offers a free EverQuest trial so that you can test it out before laying down the cash.

Exploring the continent of Kunark

The EverQuest trial will allow you to explore the continent of Kunark for 14 days without having to pay any money. If you like it than all you have to do at the end of this period, is upgrade to a full subscription, the cost will be:

* 1 month - $14.99

* 3 months - $41.99

* 6 months - $77.99

* 12 months - $143.99

There are no other hidden terms or catches you are just able to try out a great game for 14 days. If you don't like the EverQuest trial then you have not lost any money just some time. And you can try out another game trial. But make sure you do not become a game hopper, the great thing about the EverQuest trial is that you learn the game and make some friends in the ever growing EverQuest community. If you are a game hopper you will not make any friends at all.

In fact inside the EverQuest trial, you can meet thousands of new people, and its an easy way to make some new friends while questing with them. You are going to explore the massive region of Kunark and you will discover a world full of danger and intrigue. In the EverQuest trial you can engage in all kind of adventures uncover acient arifacts that are thought to be lost for centuries. You will join crusades to reveal secrets and historical facts about the wars between the Iksar Empire and the Sarnak.

To start with the EverQuest trial you need to be aware of the following minimum system requirement "Windows 2000 or XP, Pentium® III 1 Ghz or greater, 512 MB RAM, DirectX 9 Compatible video card. Pixel shader and vertex shader compatible hardware with 64MB of texture memory, DirectSound compatible audio hardware, 56k Internet Connection, 16x DVD-ROM, 10GB Hard Drive Space" (* according to the official EverQuest II website)

This configuration is the absolute minimum for a good playing experience however a Pentium® 4 2 Ghz or greater with 1 GB RAM and a Broadband Internet Connection is recommended.

So what are you waiting for? The continent of Kunark is waiting for you, and you don't have to pay a cent for the EverQuest trial. With this EverQuest trial, you can join a game and a community that has been popular for years.

Jenny Cumbersome plays online games as if here live depends on it. So if you want to find out about some world of warcraft screenshots or if you are searching for a world of warcraft hints just visit her site.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jenny_Cumbersome

Digital Transcription Service

alisongeiser — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 12:27:23 +0200

People have less and less time. Have you ever sat down at your desk first thing in the morning and write yourself a long list of things you need to do that day? I often find that I never manage to finish my list by home time. The same is true for all businesses; deadlines are often broken with not enough time to get jobs completed. In a world where time is so valuable, it can be a great advantage to have an extra pair of hands. This is where the services of a digital transcription company can come in really useful.

Digital audio transcription is the process of converting digital audio files into transcripts for companies without the time of manpower to do so. The companies using the service can vary widely, from medical to law, building to insurance, entertainment to IT, the list goes on and on. By saving yourself time with outsourcing your digital audio transcriptions to a professional transcription company you will be free to do other things like finish off that list of things to do.

Digital transcription has certain types of files which are used in the process. These files vary and can consist of the following.

1) WAV - Also known as WAVE files. One of the first audio files developed for use with the PC. The problem with these files is that it is very large, which is not so much of a problem with broadband speeds, but this file is not used so much as a consequence.

2) MP3 - Compressed WAV file often used in music. A lot of digital recorders allow you to record in MP3 format as well. The WAV file can be shrunk down to 12th of its original size.

3) WMA - Windows Media Audio files. These files were developed for Windows Media Player, which comes with all Windows based PCs. These files are even more compressed than an MP3 - about one 36th of the size of a WAV file.

The types of transcriptions which will come on these formats can range from Police interviews to teleconferences and everything in-between.

Medical Digital Transcription Service
Digital Transcription Service

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nick_Schofield

Computer and Laptop Repair

alisongeiser — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 11:06:17 +0200

We all would agree that with the advent of computers, our lives have changed. We all love to sit on our PC's and laptops for long hours for various individualistic reasons. But what happens when your Computer or Laptop breaks down and is need of a repair? Computer Repair can be a headache for most of us who are unsure of whom to trust.

If you are located in and around the North London and Herts area, there are many computer repair, laptop repair, PC maintenance, Wired and Wireless Networking solutions, and several other IT enabled services-offering companies that can help you out! Many of these companies have thorough professionals employed and have been offering their services for over a decade now.

These companies offer the services of computer repair, networking-related etc. services at affordable prices and onsite repair facilities are also available, depending upon the feasibility. Many residential, commercial, learning and government bodies employ their services. There is also a facility of replying to the inquiries made by a customer within a day.

The professionals from these companies located in and around Herts are efficient and have loads of experience in diagnosing all types of computer problems. They are willing to help you in case your computer has troubles with upgrading, is running slowly or has stopped working altogether! Services like Removing Viruses, Spy Wares, Installation of Broadband, Wireless and Wired Network set-up, Upgrading the PC's/laptops; Computer Setup, Laptop Data Recovery, File Transfers, Laptop servicing, Made-to-order computers, Network maintenance and many more related Computer Services are on offer.

Apart from the basic PC and Laptop Repair, here is a detailed list on what all you can avail from these companies:

Trouble Shooting, Fault finding, Ad ware & Mail ware Removal, PC Running Slow, Blue Screen Errors, Dead Computers, Registry Repair, Hardware Installation, Hardware Diagnostics, Software Diagnostics, Computer Maintenance, System Valet, Driver Errors, DLL Errors etc.

Facility of Remote Access

How about a facility by which one is able to get instant access to their computers at their home or office even when on the move! What if one can access their main office server machines as well!

Well, with the Remote Access Facilities that these companies offer, one can access and/or control their computers remotely. Even the people working under you have the option of sending and sharing files, folders, emails, programs etc. Even when on the move. Your customers and co-workers can also get connected. The list is never ending and benefits are manifold.

Want to avail these computer repair/laptop repair services? Want to know more about Computer Maintenance? Visit britec.org.uk for more details.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marvela_Luna

Beware of Unlimited Bandwidth - The Catc...

alisongeiser — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 10:43:24 +0200

To have your website perform well under major traffic, you need a huge amount of bandwidth. Bandwidth is simply the amount of data that can be downloaded or transmitted over an internet connection. Therefore, when you are building a website or choosing a web hosting company, make sure the company provides enough bandwidth for your website.

There are many providers out there but which one provides the genuine bandwidth that will deliver performance to your website? Some companies out there even promises unlimited bandwidth if you choose their services. To be honest, if you come across these ads that claim that they provide unlimited bandwidth, you can just forget about these companies because there is no such thing as unlimited bandwidth. These companies are just trying to attract you and lure you into signing up with their hosting plans. The so-called unlimited bandwidth is only a trick. After you eventually sign up with these companies, they will inform you that you will have to pay additional fees when you exceed your limit. This is the so-called unlimited bandwidth. You pay for whatever extra bandwidth you use.

So, if your pocket has unlimited cash, you really can enjoy unlimited bandwidth.

The only way to have unlimited bandwidth is to have you own broadband company. If not, there is no way a web hosting company provides unlimited bandwidth. Among the experienced that we have with customers that sign up with an unlimited bandwidth, customers finds that their website is not running after they sign up with the companies. When they ask for a refund, the company would just turn to 'legal mean'.

When they do that, customers will have no choice but to accept the fact in the terms of service, the one detail where customers always fail to study properly. In the end, the company does not have any reason to refund the customers.

In any case that you may encounter a company that provides unlimited bandwidth, make sure that you read the terms of service properly. Better safe than sorry. The better solution is to determine how much bandwidth that you will need for your website. To do that, you need to estimate the amount of visitors that you expect will visit your website daily, the amount of pages that you visitors will browse through and the size of the codes on your website. Once you have that figured out, you will roughly know how much bandwidth that you need. So, you won't actually have to go for an unlimited bandwidth after all.

If you are looking for an affordable web hosting service that offer unlimited bandwidth, perhaps you should check out Hostmonster hosting. At the time of writing, they are offering "unlimited bandwidth and disk storage space" with just about $6 per month.

Wonder if their offer is for real?

Well then you have to review Hostmonster service and compare Hostmonster hosting packages with other web host.

Article by Phil Anderson.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Phil_Anderson

Broadband - What Speed Do You Need?

alisongeiser — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 11:03:36 +0200

There are a wide range of deals that the leading broadband providers are offering customers. There are so many that customers do not often know which one to choose with varying speeds at various costs available.

The connection speed required depends on what you plan to use the internet for. A 1MB connection is suitable for someone who uses their internet primarily for email and general surfing. However, if you want to stream music videos or download your favourite films then you will need speeds of 1Mb to 5Mb.

Modern technology has allowed more than one person in a house to surf the internet at the same time. This has made things a lot easier as fighting for the home computer is now a thing of the past. However, if like many other families, you have more than one person using the internet you will need faster broadband.

Broadband speeds vary and your internet activity will dictate the speeds you require. Playing video games and watching high quality videos will certainly require faster connection speeds. The area of residence plays a big part in the speeds you are able to receive. The broadband speed test allows you to get a good understanding of what speeds you should be expecting from you deal.

Deals will vary depending on the provider but one thing to ensure is the amount of data you are allowed to download will be sufficient enough. This is the most common way of customers receiving extra charges as they choose the cheaper broadband deals that do not cover them. Unlimited downloads are very popular and for a extra small fee, it eliminate the chances of you getting a nasty surprise when your monthly bill arrives.

With a wide range of options available, customers should search online for the best deals around as comparing the leading providers can ensure you get the best package for you.

To ensure you receive the highest broadband quality, ensure your internet speeds are sufficient enough for your requirements. The broadband speed test allows you to see the expected speeds for your area. Find the best broadband deals online and surf your way to the best deals.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karl_Bantleman

10 Things You Didn't Know About Connecti...

alisongeiser — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 10:49:15 +0200

Connecting for Health is the countrywide IT programme for improving the NHS (National Health Service). The NHS is improving its healthcare and efficiency by implementing advanced computer systems and communication technology to provide a better service and more effective patient care.

1. Connecting for Health is currently the world's largest civil IT programme and Connecting for Health is improving efficiency and effectiveness in all areas of information sharing and record keeping in the NHS. Connecting for health will ensure that the medical records of all 60 million NHS patients in the UK are stored electronically.

2. Connecting for Health will improve all aspects of patient care, such as allowing a dentist to see what medication a patient has been prescribed by their GP, or whether the patient has recently undergone an operation. Patient records can be accessed and transferred within a few seconds, rather than the days or even weeks for this information to be between departments before the Connecting for Health programme.

3. The Connecting for Health Choose and Book system allows GPs and patients to decide the best time and place for their appointment, with a choice of at least 4 hospitals. Doctors can help decide the most appropriate hospital based on the patient's needs, meaning that appointments are now much more convenient. If the patient's circumstances change, the appointment can be changed or cancelled online, or via telephone, which will dramatically reduce the number of people who don't turn up for their appointment. Choose and Book means that patients no longer need to wait weeks for their appointments. Up to 24 000 patients a day are choosing the most convenient time and location for their appointment thanks to Choose and Book.

4. The Electronic Prescriptions Service (EPS) system will allow every doctor's surgery to send patients' prescriptions directly to pharmacies. Patients can also have their prescription sent to a pharmacy of their choice. As EPT progresses, paper prescriptions will be phased out. Currently around 70% of prescriptions are repeat prescriptions. Connecting for Health also means that patients don't need to visit their doctor's surgery to obtain a prescription for their medication. Currently, around 1.5 million electronic prescriptions a week are received from GPs.

5. As well as the benefits for GPs, hospital staff will see enormous improvements. For example, the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) allow images such as X-rays and ultrasound scans to be stored digitally and so available immediately, no matter where they are needed. Previously, according to the NHS, up to 1 in 5 X-Rays went missing.

6. Over 15 000 staff undertake a rigorous training and registration programme, every month, so they can have secure access to more information about the patients in their care.

7. One of the priorities of the Connecting for Health programme is to make sure that the NHS meets current and future staff and patient requirements. Computers and IT are increasingly used on wards and electronic patient records are rapidly replacing handwritten bundles of notes.

8. The National Network for the NHS (N3) broadband network connects all NHS locations, and other locations that provide NHS care together. Data and Images such as X-rays and scans can now be transferred between hospitals in seconds. Previously if patient records or scans were needed, they would often have had to be delivered by courier or taxi.

9. Thanks to the impressive broadband system, Voice Over IP (VOIP) telephone calls are can now be made. This means that phone calls between departments, hospitals and other NHS locations are free. This massive cost saving, combined with reduced call rates from landline to mobile phones, will save over £20m according to the Connecting for Health N3 programme director.

10. Patients who change their doctor have their notes transferred within seconds, rather than the usual 6 weeks or more. As well as being more efficient, patient data is much more secure, and less likely to get lost in transit.

Connecting For Health is moving along rapidly, and providing better care than ever for patients, better and more appropriate systems and procedures for medical staff, and saving the NHS over £120 million each year.

SYstem C is heavily involved in the Connecting for Health programme, and works alongside NHS Trusts and Local Service Providers. Find out more about Healthcare Systems designed for the NHS National Programme for IT (NPfIT) designed to benefit both the patients and staff.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=M_James

VOIP Questions and Answers

alisongeiser — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:42:33 +0200

Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, has grown in popularity recently and with that rise in popularity has come a number of common misconceptions and confusion. Global Value Conncet ( http://globalvalueconnect.com ) has complied this simple guide to address some of these most common questions and concerns.

What is VoIP and what does it stand for?
How do I make a VoIP phone call?
What equipment do I need for VoIP phone calls?
Are there any differences between making a local call or a long distance call?
Who can I call if I am using a VoIP service?
Are there any advantages in using VoIP phone service?
Will I be able to dial 911 emergency services?
Will I be able to use my computer while making a VoIP phone call?
Will I be able to take my phone adapter with me while traveling?
Does my computer need to be running in order to use VoIP service?
How will I know when I receive a phone call over my VoIP service?
Who regulates VoIP services?
What are the computer system requirements for VoIP?
Are free trials normally available?
How can I improve the sound quality?

1. What is VoIP and what does it stand for?

VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol and it allows you to place telephone calls over a data network like the internet. It operates by converting your voice signal from your telephone into a digital signal that can then be transmitted over the Internet. The digital signal is then converted at the other end back to a voice signal that the other party can hear. When you use a phone with an adapter the calls are placed just like a regular telephone. You first hear a dial tone then the call is made. You are also able to place a call directly from your computer using a conventional telephone or microphone.

2. How do I make a VoIP phone call?

Making a VoIP phone call is no different from using a regular land line telephone. You pickup the receiver and listen for the dial tone. You can then dial your number as you always have in the past. The call connects to your high-speed Internet connection and travels to your local telephone company's equipment to a VoIP provider which transport the signal through the Internet to the local provider of the party you are calling. They relay the signal to your parties telephone. As an alternative, you may also place the call using your computer's hardware and software, entering the number through your keyboard. The signal is then sent through your cable modem to your local telephone carrier.

3. What equipment do I need for VoIP phone calls?

Your existing incoming high-speed Internet connection should be sufficient but the higher the connectivity the better the signal.

In terms of hardware, you can hook up an inexpensive microphone to your computer or connect a phone directly to a VoIP telephone adaptor (ATA). Or you can use a phone specially made to work with Internet Voice. This is called an SIP Phone. Each SIP phone is a network endpoint, and voice is routed via its IP address. It allows a DID (direct inward dialing) number to move with a user. You can move, add or remove stations and never have to call your interconnect/PBX service company. SIP phones also allow full use of advanced features like voice mail to e-mail and auto attendant.

4. Are there any differences between making a local call or a long distance call?

There are many different calling available for VoIP. The calling rates and fixed plans will vary from one vendor to another depending on the service you select. Please make sure to read all of the fine print associated with any plan that you choose.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that VoIP can blur the difference between local and long distance by issuing a local number for your Internet phone. This allows you to make LOCAL calls to your home area code from that phone, regardless of where you are geographically. All you need is an Internet connection to plug in your phone, it doesn't matter what Internet provider you use, and you can call your local area code from anywhere in the world without paying long distance rates.

5. Who can I call if I am using a VoIP service?

Your calls can be made to any local telephone number, mobile phone, long distance number, or any international number. You may even use the service to speak with more than one person at a time. More importantly, the person you are calling does not need any special equipment; just a regular telephone.

6. Are there any advantages in using VoIP phone service?

If you are using a broadband internet connection, you don't need to maintain and pay the additional cost for a regular land line just to make telephone calls. With VoIP you're able to talk to many people at the same time. You can set up conference calls with your colleagues, staff, family and friends. VoIP allows you to reduce interconnect/PBX fees by enabling you to add, move and remove stations from your network without calling your service provider. In addition, you don't have to buy an expensive phone switch to set up your network. VoIP also offers many advanced calling features from caller ID and call forward to voicemail and distinctive ringing to call tracing and reminder calls, among many others. You can also manage your features through the Internet; log-in and customize services that normally you would have to rely on your provider to change - for a fee of course. Voice over Internet can lower long-distance fees by assigning a local telephone number to your VoIP phone. You will then be able to take your phone anywhere in the world, plug it into any broadband connection regardless of specific provider, and you can make LOCAL calls to your home area code. Parents can keep in touch with children at college; churches can contact missionaries all over the world; and businesses can connect branch offices in different cities.

7. Will I be able to dial 911 emergency services?

Some Internet Voice services have difficulty seamlessly connecting with the 911 dispatch center or identifying the location of Internet Voice 911 callers. Check with your local VoIP provider to determine if they can provide this service in your area.

8. Will I be able to use my computer while making a VoIP phone call?

Yes you most certainly will be able to use your computer while making calls on your VoIP network.

9. Will I be able to take my phone adapter with me while traveling?

You should be able to use your VoIP service wherever you travel as long as you have a high-speed Internet connection available. Your adaptor should work the same as when you are at home or in the office as long as you have access to a high-speed Internet connection.

10. Does my computer need to be running in order to use VoIP service?

Your computer does not need to be turned on but your broadband connection must be active in order for VoIP to functionproperly. However, if you are not using an adapter and choose to use a microphone or headset with your computer then your computer must be on.

11. How will I know when I receive a phone call over my VoIP service?

Your VoIP phone will ring like any other telephone.

12. Who regulates VoIP services?

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has worked to create an environment promoting competition and innovation tobenefit consumers. Historically, the FCC has not regulated the Internet or the services provided over it. On February 12, 2004, the FCC found that an entirely Internet-based VoIP service was an unregulated information service. On the same day, the FCC began a broader proceeding to examine what its role should be in this new environment of increased consumer choice and what it can best do to meet its role of safeguarding the public interest. In November 2004 they ruled that States do not have the jurisdiction to impose taxes on VoIP services, another victory for the consumer.

13. What are the computer system requirements for VoIP?

The specific requirements of any VoIP system must be checked with each individual VoIP provider.

14. Are free trials normally available?

You need to check with your selected VoIP provider to determine if a free trial is available. Most VoIP providers will provide some kind of free trial or conditional free trial period. If you are dissatisfied for any reason you should return the equipment in their original packing boxes together with all shipping paperwork and packing slips to ensure they will honor their warrantee.

14. Will I be able to use VoIP behind a firewall?

You need to ask your network administrator regarding any special setting that are required to function through the firewall.

15. How can I improve the sound quality?

Speak with a headset instead of a microphone. Better still, use a phone with an adaptor.
If you are using a microphone, hold it away from the speakers to avoid having the sound from your speakers recirculate into your microphone causing feedback.
Lower the volume on your speakers.
Check with your sound card manufacturer to be sure you are using the latest drivers.
Use a direct phone jack. A split line or extension cord between your phone jack and computer can distort the sound causing an echo.

Global Value Conncet ( http://globalvalueconnect.com ) offers a wide range of VoIP products and services from the most reliable vendors at the most competitive prices. If you are in the market for VoIP services or curious as to what it may cost or how you may benefit then stop in and check out our products and services at: http://globalvalueconnect.com/VoIP.htm

You have permission to publish this article electronically or in print, free of charge, as long as the bylines are included. A courtesy copy of your publication would be appreciated - send to info@globalvalueconnect.com

About The Author

Global Value Connect ( http://globalvalueconnect.com ) has been providing the best value in telecommunication products and services for the home or office since 1995. If you want to cut your telephone bill in half register today for our free eBook entitled "Telephone Bill Saving Tips for Home and Office" and is available at: http://globalvalueconnect.com/Saving_Tips.htm

info@globalvalueconnect.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Raymond_Klesc

How to Sell High Tech Solutions

alisongeiser — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 10:52:19 +0200

Many companies are looking to improve upon the speed, security, and accessibility of business technologies, especially satellite and broadband connections to the internet. While customers are becoming more savvy, many don’t speak ‘tech-ese,’ and they still are baffled by terms such as routers, IPSEC, T-1s, WIFI, and broadband. While these buyers may have a genuine interest and need for the products they investigate, more often than not their sales experience ends up a frustrating and confusing one.

Don't Talk Tech!

Salespeople are often caught in the hype for their own products. It’s easy to lose touch with a client’s perspective with this approach. The other major blunder a tech salesperson may make is their need to be perceived as experts in their field. Talking tech to the point of no return does not usually yield a promising sale. How does one handle the tendency in tech sales to “show up and throw up?” It is critical to address ineffective sales approaches in the tech market, because these mistakes are often the most significant barriers to high performance.

Communicate Don't Baffle

Bringing the human side to selling high tech products is not easy, but it must enter into the equation or else a salesperson’s success is at risk. Communicating with clients, not baffling them, is key to building long-term relationships. Technology is evolving, and the customer needs to become aware of the new technology and not be intimidated by it.

Focus on Client Needs

I conduct high technology sales training throughout the United States for a variety of clients. For sales professionals in the high tech field, I often stress the need to shift the focus from the salesperson to the client. This is difficult, because products are complex, and sales people get caught up in the innovation and creativity the product may provide rather than focusing on the client’s needs. Typically, a salesperson approaches the client with a laundry list of questions or a lengthy Powerpoint presentation. Sometimes the questions are canned, or the presentation is a reflection of the salesperson’s agenda. The questions or presentation are designed to steer the conversation towards the highlights of the products for sale or the expertise of the salesperson.

Turn the Tone from an Interview to a Conversation

Instead of assuming knowledge of the client’s needs, I recommend a salesperson begin the first meeting by asking the client about their expectations. I also advise them to cancel the list of leading questions. Replace this with a list of results the client desires and their potential business challenges. Shifting the focus from the salesperson to the client will change the tone of the meeting from an interview to a conversation.

Ask the Right Questions

The art of selling is still about asking good questions. They simply must be framed with a different purpose. Try building in questions that put the client in the driver’s seat. For example, ‘What would you like to learn more about?’ or “How can I help resolve these issues?’ These questions can generate a host of answers that relate back to the product and the solutions technology offers.

Shortened presentations that focus on companies’ capabilities and how to expand them through technology help close deals. Info dumps are a bore and can even damage the sale process because the customer is not engaged. If high tech salespeople lose themselves in touting the capabilities of the product, they lose their most distinguishing feature – themselves.

About The Author

Amy Fox has designed and delivered sales training for Fortune 500 telecommunications and technology firms for companies such as Global Crossing Telecommunications, Cincinnati Bell, and Trivantis. Ms. Fox has taught M.B. A. courses at Xavier University on creating a coaching culture. Amy Fox founded Accelerated Business Results in 2003. Visit http://www.acceleratedbr.com for more information; amy.fox@acceleratedbr.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amy_Fox

Computer Problems. How Do You Avoid Them...

alisongeiser — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 11:13:24 +0200

I see Danny Burke of PC Magic once a month to sort out any problems on my computer and to help me move ahead with an internet info product business.

Danny spends most of his week rescuing business owners who are having problems with their computers.

Last week I asked him for the advice he would give a business owner who was having trouble with his computer. This is the advice he gave me:

Keep things simple on your computer. Don’t use it for games etc. Just use it for business. Danny finds that half his customers have caused their own problems by the extras they have downloaded from the internet such as:

Additional toolbars for internet explorer.
Unnecessary utilities like internet speed boosters which seldom work.
Eye candy such as wall paper changers, animated cats etc

All most businesses need is

A base operating system
An email client
A web browser
An office suite
A firewall and anti-virus system

Don’t download any old stuff off the internet. The more stuff you put on your hard disk, the more likely it is that you will have problems. Microsoft cannot check all the different applications you might download for compatibility.

Your first graphics package and another graphics package might fight over the file extensions. Try to stick with one package. Similar problems occur with music and video players which should not be on a business system anyway unless you are in that field.

Don’t upgrade unless you could name three good reasons to upgrade. After Danny gave me this advice, I rather guiltily tried to upgrade my BT broadband service to the new combined BT Yahoo broadband service.

Sure enough as soon as I had installed the new service, things started to go wrong. Things that had worked before (like links in emails) no longer worked. I’m not blaming BT Yahoo. I just had too much stuff on my computer! When I uninstalled the new service everything started working again.

Danny comments: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” When you upgrade, the file formats are sometimes different from the earlier versions of the software. This means you cannot go back to the earlier versions because they don’t recognise the new file format.

Do not assume that newer versions are better than the earlier versions. All you have done is make the software producer richer!

Have a firewall and virus checker and keep them up to date

Back up your data. 90% of companies who have a catastrophic data loss go bankrupt within two years. You should have two copies of important data and three copies of critical data stored in three different locations.

One copy should be in a fire safe off site. This should be standard practice. You cannot trust computers. Sooner or later they will get you! If you don’t back up, you are an idiot and deserve all you get!

Today I received this message from an ezine owner:

A lot of you sent me an ad this week, which
I had saved on my hard drive and guess
what?

My computer crashed and I lost every one.

I have a backup computer, but no ads.

Please re-send your ads so I can get them in
the Friday edition.

Sorry for the trouble.

The ezine owner is obviously a nice person but he may lose customers who haven’t got the time to resend their ads. No one likes to repeat their efforts.

Maybe his computer crashed because he had broken not only the back up rule but some of the other rules.

As a general principle, use your machine and don’t tinker with it. Once it is working, leave it alone!

Leave it alone!!!

John Watson is an info publisher on the internet and a martial arts school owner. He taught Religious Studies and Life Skills to teenagers in London schools for about 33 years before retiring in 2000 A.D. His own e-books and those of the English multimillionaire and businessman, Stuart Goldsmith, can be found on his site at http://www.motivationtoday.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Watson

The Purpose of Broadband Comparison

alisongeiser — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 10:36:11 +0200

Why would anyone want to take the time to conduct a broadband comparison? Aren't all broadband providers essentially the same? That's the mistake many people make when they are seeking a broadband provider. They assume that all providers offer the same services at approximately the same price. It's essential to know what you are getting before you agree to that service.

One important thing you want to check is download speed. If you do a great deal of downloading, this is going to make a difference. Some broadband providers allow web space while others do not. There are many differences between providers which is why it's important to do a broadband comparison before you make a final decision concerning a broadband provider. Some providers include free virus protection which can save you quite a bit of money each year in either product of subscription renewal costs.

Is there a best way to conduct a broadband comparison? If you have never done a broadband comparison, you will need to know how to search and compare different aspects of each broadband provider's business and home broadband services. The best way to make a broadband comparison is to make a list of what you expect from a broadband provider. When you have your list of expectations, you are then able to research potential providers to find out which ones come closest to your expectations.

It is not likely when you conduct your broadband connection that you will find one service provider that meets all of your expectations. You may have to take the time to compare services and decide what is the most important to you and move forward from there. Of course, when a business is doing a broadband comparison it is essential that they find a provider that can offer all of the services they need. The difference is that most providers will customize services under a business account whereas home broadband is pretty much a package deal with very little customization possible.

When you take the time to do a broadband comparison, you know before you sign up with the service what to expect in terms of service and offerings. Instead of choosing a broadband provider on speculation, you will be making an informed decision based on research and comparison. You would not choose a mobile phone provider without checking the services each one provides nor should you do so with a broadband provider. There are many broadband providers throughout the UK. Whether you want ADSL or cable broadband, you want to do a broadband comparison and select carefully. Failure to take the time to select the right broadband provider can cost extra money when you cancel your service and choose another provider. Not only do you face the possibility of a contract cancellation fee if you've chosen an annual plan, but you also may have to pay another set up and installation fee as well. If you take extra time to choose carefully the first time you will not have to worry about such trivia.

About the Author: Broadband comparison from DialToSave lets you choose the features you want in your broadband internet deal and then sort the results to show the broadband deal that is best for you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Caroline_Telford

VoIP: Finally Worth a Look

alisongeiser — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:49:56 +0200

Dear Internet Friends,

Hundreds of thousands of consumers collectively save millions of dollars each month by replacing (or supplementing) their traditional telephone service with personal voice over IP (VoIP) telephony.

Using IP to transmit voice is not new. Large corporations and long distance carriers have used IP to transmit voice on their private networks for years. Likewise, private citizens have used their computers and the Internet to talk with other PC users for a few years now, but in the past users of such solutions have had to contend with poor voice quality and the need for at least one computer to be connected to the Internet.

Widespread adoption of broadband Internet service (cable or DSL) in the last few years though has in turn fueled a surge in the growth of much-improved personal VoIP

Most VoIP service providers offer all-inclusive calling plans that provide you with unlimited local, regional and long distance (within the United States) at flat rates starting as low as $24.95 per month. Some offer usage-based plans at a lower monthly cost and most provide inexpensive per minute rates on international calls as well. In addition, VoIP service providers include a smorgasbord of advanced features such as name and number caller ID, call forwarding, call blocking and voice mail that traditional phone companies sell as premium services.

When you sign up for VoIP service, many service providers give you the option of choosing the area code, and possibly the exchange, for your service. You can select from any area where the VoIP provider has local service.

So what are the drawbacks of a personal VoIP solution? The main drawback is the need for a reliable broadband connection; without one a VoIP solution is probably not for you.

Power outages present another hurdle. Since VoIP requires a live Internet connection, losing electricity means losing your phone service.

The voice quality of your VoIP call is also another consideration. Since the data travels across the Internet, there's the potential for dropouts or "burbles" similar to what you might experience on a cell phone

Most people we called during our tests were surprised at the quality of the calls, and didn't realize they were on a VoIP connection until we told them. Keep in mind that the call quality for VoIP providers who don't manage their IP networks and depend on the Internet for routing will yield varying and sometimes disappointing voice quality and unreliable connections.

Syed Akram was 3 years experience in offline and online marketing. He now actively promoting the new free voip communication technology which improve relationship in internet far more better. His site can be visit at http://www.mdi365.com/futurebiz (Futurebiz's Free Internet Marketing Tool and Training for Work From Home)

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Syed_Akram

Laptop Computers and the PVP Effect!

alisongeiser — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:52:01 +0200

Roll over lumbering desktop computers, the limber laptop is here, and it's here to stay! For a while now notebooks have outstripped their ageing desktop PC siblings, easily winning the gold medal in the computer sales olympics. We will illustrate how the PVP effect has contributed greatly to the increase in popularity of notebook computers.

(P) Portability:

Firstly it may be stating the obvious, but people buy laptops because they can take them anywhere. Office workers need no more be confined to their claustrophophic cubicles. Instead those statistic charts and data reports can be compiled on a train, in the comfort of an arm chair, or even on the beach! Portability equals flexibility, but alas this hasn't always been the case. Todays ultra portable laptop computers have a come along way since the bulky, sewing machine sized machines of the late seventies and early eighties. Indeed one of the first portable computers was built by IBM, and this machine (IBM 5100) weighed in at a hefty 50lbs! Today's corridor warriors would have trouble lugging that puppy from meeting to meeting, unless of course they subjected themselves to an intensive dose of steroids :)

(V) Value:

In the seventies the aforementioned IBM 5100 would have set you back a staggering 20,000 dollars. Today a top of the range IBM Thinkpad can be bought for around 3000 dollars. Cheaper Thinkpads can often be obtained for well under a thousand dollars, especially if you don't mind purchasing a used or refurbished model.

(P) Performance:

Many laptops today come fitted with Centrino processors which offer superb performance and improved battery life. What is Centrino I hear you ask? Well this is Intel's name for their new notebook technology that combines their Pentium M processor, 855 chipset and the Intel PRO/Wireless 2100 WiFi 802.11 network interface. Laptops fitted with these processors are usually lighter because of the smaller components used.

Couple this attractive feature with wireless networking technology and you have a powerful technological package. Wi-Fi is short for "Wireless Fidelity" and it's usage is growing quickly amongst home users, office workers, even coffee shops. If you enter Wi-Fi areas with a properly equipped notebook, you can access the Internet at broadband speeds.

Tom Fox writes for the The Laptops Weblog, a web site providing information and articles related to notebook computers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Fox

A Cheap Alternative To Broadband?

alisongeiser — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 10:33:27 +0200

Are you a dial-up user looking for a faster connection,
but don't like Broadband prices? If so, you should take a look at a new service called OnSpeed, which has received rave reviews in Internet technology publications.

What OnSpeed does is to re-route web pages and email via
its own servers, compressing the data on the fly prior to sending it onwards to your PC. A small program then decompresses the data, so that you can view it in the normal way via your browser or email client.

In my own dial-up tests, with a modem running at a nominal
49kb/s I appeared to get speeds close to that of my normal
broadband connection of 598 kb/s - very impressive. Image quality is often reduced but the compression for this can be improved, though with an adverse effect on the speed of course.

Some file types like MP3 also cannot yet be compressed. The
company is working on these issues however and expects to
find solutions soon.

Unfortunately I was unable to use email in my tests, due
to a 'port' conflict with a spam filter that I was using. The
standard advice on the OnSpeed site for such cases is to disable the offending program. Not a constructive approach - to say
the least - so I hope that the relevant instructions will be changed soon.

More significantly, the problem persisted even when I
switched off the OnSpeed application on my PC; in the end I had to remove the program to get the spam filter working again. I expect that this fault can be resolved, but clearly there are issues in this area that need to be addressed.

The software is easy to install, and is available for Mac
as well as Windows PCs. On the whole the service is surprisingly
good, and a lot cheaper than broadband. Unlike other 'speed-up'
techniques that tweak your computer's settings but result in
little noticeable improvement, OnSpeed really works.

I can recommend OnSpeed for dial-up users who can't justify the
expense of broadband, or who are not located close enough to a
suitable exchange. OnSpeed is also stated to be great for mobile
or PDA users, as GPRS (wireless) speeds can be boosted by as much
as 8 times. It even helps with broadband if you can only get a
reduced service in your area.

My overall rating is 4/5 - very good, but the email support needs
to be improved.

If you want further details of OnSpeed, please visit http://www.On-Speed.net. There is a 14 day money-back
guarantee, so you can try the service without any risk.

Richard is a software developer and entrepreneur, and may be contacted via the 'Article Tips' site given below. This article may be published without permission, but only in its entirety.

Free email course: "Drive 'Hot' Prospects To Your Site For Free!" http://www.ArticleTips.com

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