Computer Services Auckland Blog - Pulse IT Blog

Can a $1.20 tool really help the mind-set I turn up to work with?

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 20:37:00 GMT

While browsing the 1000’s of iPhone applications available earlier this month I found a great little app that has the potential to make a big difference for iPhone owners...

Step 1: Set a wake up alarm on your iPhone.

Step 2: Place your iPhone beside your pillow and drift off... While you sleep your iPhone will do all the work! Sensing the motion of your movements during sleep it then makes a recording of them on a graph (see picture). The graph measures the peaks and lows of when you’re in a deep REM sleep, dreaming or near to waking up.

Step 3: Within 30 minutes of your set alarm time the iPhone will sense when you are at the optimum time in your sleep pattern to wake you. Often we wake up feeling groggy and still half asleep, that’s because we peaked to nearly awake and then headed back to sleep, dreaming and deep sleep again.

Looking at my example test on the night of 4th March 2010 – the alarm was set to wake me at 7am. I remember being in and out of sleep, waking up at around 3-4pm in the middle of the night for an hour before falling back to sleep again, just as its recorded. It then woke me at 6:42am as I started to drift back toward deep sleep .

The results – no grogginess or jetlagged feeling - I was awake, alert and ready to hit the ground running!

So far It’s been a true and correct representation of my sleep pattern but to prove its worth its weight in gold, I’ll test it again and post an update soon.

Efficiency in the work place - Single Monitor vs Dual Monitors vs larger Screens...

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 22:12:00 GMT

During 2009 we went through our entire organisation at Pulse ensuring that everyone had at a minimum dual screen monitors and preferably with large 22" wide screen monitors. Our goal was improving employee efficiency and that certainly has been achieved. To put a figure on it would be difficult, however we have pulled together a number of stats from around the world that more or less line up with our experience.

Having done a little research on what the statistics are saying, it appears there are varied opinions on who wins this debate, but the last place slot definitely belongs to the single monitor option, particularly 17" – 19" screens. It’s a minimal starting platform for your business but if you want to get ahead then it’s not an infrastructure you want to stay with for long.

A University of Utah and ATI Technologies survey of 108 university & non university personnel using Dual Screen monitors reported increases of productivity with 33% fewer errors, 16% faster edits, 6% quicker access to tasks, as well as usability benefits of 45% easier task tracking, 32% faster performance and 24% more comfortable to use than single monitor set ups. Production of work was of a better quality, performed faster and with fewer errors. Task focus of the user along with their speed and ease of learning were also increased.

A survey undertaken for Apple on its larger high definition 30in Cinema screen in comparison to using smaller monitors also offered statistics boasting at least a 45% increase in productivity across the board. This was then disputed as inhumanly possible by one productivity expert who stated that a 5% increase was a more likely figure for larger screen use and around a 30% increase in productivity potential for Dual Monitor use. Although it’s advantageous to having more space to work, it will help some more than others depending on what they are working on. Larger screens could also have positive health benefits for workers such as less eye squinting.

On the whole, viewpoints from professionals in the business of promoting and evaluating productivity through hardware and work habits are recommending the dual monitor option as having more verifiable productivity gains than larger screens. The bottom line comes down to how much you can view simultaneously, after that they are looking for increased speed, accuracy, time-saving, ease of use and comfortability. An interesting mix might be the combining of dual monitors and larger screens – a sure fire “win win” situation.

If you are interested in increasing the efficiency and productivity in your business then drop us a line at Pulse and we’ll advise you on the best solution for you... 09 525 1180

Apple Launch new iPad

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 03:32:00 GMT

Apple have decided to wow us again today with the much anticipated launch of their new “iPad”. Looking like an iPhone on steroids the iPad is just as thin, with the same layout but seems larger than life and its list of credentials make it worth a second look!

With a high definition screen you’ll be able to watch movies clearer and better than your home TV. No it doesn’t remove your wide screen black bands but who cares when the picture is supposed to be that good! Boasting a built in accelerometer the iPad can detect motion like a Wii and repositions your picture to suit – meaning there’s no technical up and down – whatever’s good for you is good with the iPad. This combined with the almost full size keyboard should make emailing a dream without the weight and space-taking of a traditional laptop.

The iPad claims it’s going to be the best Net browsing device on the market and to be honest I expect it will be . I envisage it being like an electronic magazine on your coffee table, with in-the-moment information at your fingertips, requiring an effortless ease to browse wherever, whenever. If it’s anything like my iPhone the iPad should give you a human friendly kind of experience that will make it a lifelong companion you won’t want to leave behind - definitely a device I can’t wait to try.

Along with Apps like Bluetooth, Wifi and a GPS it also has the iBook. I suspect that the “Kindle” book reader devices may be left in its wake due to all the amazing extra applications it comes with. Like Apple has iTunes for music and AppStore for games and software, iBook allows you to download exceptional quality electronic books to read from its own personal store. You’ll be able to literally flick pages at your own pace with its advanced sensors and high definition.

The iPad battery life sounds good with enough juice to run for a solid 10 hours and one month on standby which is a great bonus. The release date into New Zealand is yet unknown but you can count on us to keep our fingers on the Pulse!

A new reason to blog

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 04:03:00 GMT

I haven’t done this before, but looking at the devastation in Haiti, I find myself with no choice.

A very big thank you to one of our clients TEARFund for the amazing work that you do around the world in times like these.

To Jon and the team, my hat off to you

If you find yourself moved as I have been, and wish to assist, then one of your options is clicking the link below:

Thanks, Ryan

Do you qualify for a free Windows 7 upgrade?

Thu, 26 Nov 2009 08:43:00 GMT

If you have purchased or plan to purchase a name-brand vendor’s laptop or desktop (eg Lenovo/ HP etc) with one of the following eligible Vista versions listed below, between 26 June 2009 - 31 January 2010 then you are entitled to a free Upgrade to Windows 7.

Note: This offer only applies for those who have a network of 25 PC’s or lower. Larger clients required Software Assurance on their Windows Licences to receive the upgrade.

Version Eligible Windows 7 Upgrade Entitlement

A few points to also note are these:

• Microsoft Windows Vista Home Basic, Windows Vista Starter Edition and Windows XP (all versions) do not qualify for free upgrades

• XP Pro Downgrade models with Vista Business Licence are eligible for the Windows 7 Upgrade

SO if you think you qualify for a FREE Upgrade then contact us on service@pulseit.co.nz and we can double check for you!

Blackle - Saving the Planet One Search at a Time

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:52:00 GMT

“Blackle” - the search engine choice that saves the planet one search at a time.

If you haven’t seen it yet - its black and it’s supposed to be good for you. Blackle is a Heap Media creation powered by Google Custom search. It claims that because the screen is mostly black it’s doing the environment a favour and saving energy in the long run.

According to Blackle screen type does matter – the old style CCFL backlit LCD’s are constantly backlit but the newer monitors like LED backlit LCD screens, Plasmas and OLED’s don’t have the constant back lighting so Blackle becomes more effective with these types of monitors.

However, Google claims that when they turned the “lights out” for Earth Hour in 2008 - it saved no energy, it was merely a gesture to bring about awareness of the cause. Google advised that modern screens use the same amount of power no matter what they are displaying, thus being the reason they don’t permanently keep their Google search engine black.

A test done for Techlogg.com on different screen types advised that CRT screens do save a very small amount of power using Blackle. They suggest that those with LCD screens 22” or smaller should stick with Google, if you have a 24” LCD or larger you will also find a miniscule saving of energy with Blackle, though it’s not always guaranteed.

So “to Blackle or not to Blackle” seems to be a personal choice and if the saying ‘every microscopic bit counts’ has anything to do with it then it could be worth using Blackle and doing your tiny bit to help. As a reminder to save energy Blackle is a pretty good advocate though - here are
some simple energy saving tips for your office:

• Set ‘sleep’ features on your computer and any electrical appliances that power down after they’ve been idle for a while. Even better turn them off at the wall when not in use, even machines on standby use up to 30 watts of power.
• If computers must be left on, turn off the screen (they consume more than half of the total energy used to run your PC). OR turn down your screen’s brightness.
• Think about buying a laptop for your next computer upgrade; they use 70-90% less energy than desktop computers.
• If you can, use ink-jet printers - they consume 90% less energy than laser printers and only print what you need, re-using paper if possible for scrap or drafts
• Buy energy conscious equipment (Energy Star rated etc).

Get an inside look at history’s first ever Dual Screen Laptop...

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:59:00 GMT

Lenovo’s funky new W700ds laptop offers you the world’s first dual-screen option complete with in-built Wacom digitiser in the palm rest and fingerprint scanner.

Weighing in at a hefty 5kg (that’s without the 1 kg power supply), it’s primary screen is 17 inches featuring a remarkable graphic display far better than any other laptop around, while the 10.6inch smaller screen which slides out of the lid to the right, is only slightly dimmer and can bend to sit parallel or at a 45-degree angle to the main display.

It’s an all-in-one workstation with all the power and desired features of a first-class desktop in a transportable bundle with your choice of processors from a 2.53GHz Core 2 Duo T9400 all the way up to a 2.53GHz Core 2 Quad Extreme QX9300 with 12MB of L2 cache, 4GB of DDR3 and NVIDIA Quadro FX 2700M or 3700M graphics, fantastic for professionals who require as much screen space, connectivity and processing muscle as they can afford in a machine that can take the journey with them!

So if you are familiar with carting other heavy necessities around you probably won’t even notice the substantial kgs of the W700ds and if that’s the case – you’ll be overjoyed to know you can have two hard drives, but don’t count on setting up shop over the Pacific with it on your lap! It’s an ideal option if you are wanting to put down roots for a few weeks in several locations and will use less work space than a fixed machine and less juice as well. It’s not going to fit in your average laptop bag but Lenovo will be more than happy to sell you one large enough!

If your curiosity has peaked and you're dying to part with a few $$ then email Ryan for a quote ryan.balemi@pulseit.co.nz

Mobile Handsets

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 22:09:00 GMT

About to change your mobile handsets? Then STOP and read this info first – it could save you $$...

As a rule of thumb if you have an exchange server and you want full synchronisation between your new handsets/phones and your workstations then you’ll want to know if there are any hidden requirements or future costs that could come out of the closet down the road....

• The Blackberry: Yes – these guys have a lot of bells and whistles but the surprise set up costs may curve your opinion

• The iPhone: Sleek, stylish and ready to go - straight out of the box, no secrets with this one

• The Palm: A smartphone option that generally works but depends on the model you run with

• The Nokia: Some of these will tie in with your system, others won’t – once again it depends on the model so it’s worth finding out before you buy

Conclusion – if you are planning on changing smartphones and telecommunication providers soon – give the team at Pulse IT a call and ask us what we think – we can advise and recommend the best option for you based on your company’s IT setup and business needs. A little short term research could save you in the long term pocket!

Missed eWaste Day? You’re in luck....

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:15:00 GMT

On the 12th September, 966 tonnes of Electronic Waste was recycled in 38 centres around New Zealand – that’s enough to fill 55 shipping containers!

If you missed out then here’s the lowdown on a few options for eWaste recycling in Auckland –

CRTNZ
These guys recycle all electronic waste for FREE (apart from TV’s). They also offer a data destruction service that’s in accordance with all regulations and environmental laws as well as purchase some unwanted equipment. For more details check out their website www.crtnz.co.nz , Phone 579 2603 or email ceo.crtnz@hotmail.com . You’ll find their drop off location at 8B Monier Place, Mt.Wellington. Opening hours are week days 8am-5pm. CRTNZ will refurbish what they can and recycle what they can’t.

The ARK Computers
Among other things The Ark recovers computers, refurbishes them and sells them at
low cost to schools, charitable organisations, and to the public as well as through their non-profit initiative World Computer Exchange Programs to bridge the global digital divide in developing countries. Some cost is involved for disposal depending on age and quantity so take a look at www.the-ark.co.nz under ‘disposal’. You’ll find the Ark Computers at 1/11 Blackburn Road, East Tamaki, Auckland 09 272 2676. No pick up so freight costs apply if you are unable to drop off items.

Computer Recycling Ltd
Located in Penrose, Auckland, Computer Recycling offers an environmentally friendly disposal service with free pick up for more than 10 items in Auckland’s commercial areas – see www.computerrecycling.co.nz for items included or more information. Its FREE to drop off all unwanted computer and associated equipment to their recycling yard at 95 Gavin Street, Penrose from 9am-5pm Week days and Saturday 10-4pm – other times can be made through arrangement phone 525 5518 or 027 611 3582.

Happy Recycling!

Office 2010 on its way

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 23:14:00 GMT

A key product on the horizon is Office 2010.

There are a number of short videos available to see new features of this also.

The one that I thought would be of interest being Outlook 2010 and the way they've made it easier to manage emails on a daily basis.

Click here for Office 2010 videos - Then choose the Outlook one

Windows 7 - look good or going to flop?

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 23:16:00 GMT

Yesterday Microsoft announced that Windows 7 has been released to manufacturing so therefore they will achieve their expected release date of October 22nd 2009.

We have been running Windows 7 internally at Pulse now for many months and to be honest have found it an absolutely huge step forward in usability, stability and speed from Vista.
It looks nicer and is easier to use but is also certainly faster than Windows Vista even on the same hardware.

There are a number of short videos available on the internet to see what the new Windows 7 looks like, however I have a couple of the key ones here to look at if you are interested – please excuse the geeks!

Short Video showing the Windows 7 general experience - the second part of this video is key - showing how it is now easy to manage multiple open programs/windows

Short Video showing Windows 7 "Touch" capabilities

Is the iPhone good for business?

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:44:00 GMT

There is been a lot of media coverage about the latest gadget/toy – the iPhone.

Without question it is up the top of the list for many people wanting the latest gadget phone. But is it actually good for business?

I recently purchased an iPhone and found the answer to this question.

The short answer is yes, the iPhone is a fantastic business device.

In fact, the best all in one e-mail/calendar/telephone I have ever owned.

So apart from it being “cool”, what makes it a good business device?

There are a number of reasons I could cover here, so I’ll keep it to the main benefits I and some of our clients have found:

General ease of use of the phone

It is very easy to use the device and navigate around – in fact it only has one button on the front of the device – can’t get much easier than that.

Synchronisation of e-mail/calendar/contacts

Whilst many devices on the market do this (BlackBerry, iMate, some Nokia’s), without question the iPhone does it better.

Emails are shown just as they are in outlook – including tables, pictures etc, and is very easy to read attachments in Adobe Acrobat or Microsoft Word – much better than viewing them in text only

Meeting requests, sending emails, viewing your calendar is very easy and very visual.

Very fast to use

I had a bad experience with my last Nokia where if I started using it during an e-mail synch, the device would laterally make me wait a couple of minutes before I could use it. The iPhone has tonnes of processing power and seems to be ready for anything.

Reliability

Time will tell with this one. With only being on the market for a couple of months no one can draw a conclusion here, but what I can say is that from a usability perspective and linking in with the server for emails – it just works

GPS and Roadmaps

If you want a Navman, go and buy one. This device isn’t going to give you 100% of what a Navman can.

In saying this, if you’re happy with 80% - then look no further.

I recently participated in a clients offsite leadership strategy day in Hamilton. Having not travelled to the premises before (and being in a suburb I wasn’t particularly familiar with), I punched it in before I left, and it took me right to the door. It doesn’t give you voice prompts, although this is planned for a future software upgrade.

Other

But whilst it does the business functions very well, let’s not forget that it also has the personal “cool” factor of being your music device, playing movies, and having a tonne of downloadable applications.

One such application I’ve only just downloaded for $5 dollars, which shows me the tide charts and latest isobaric weather maps – perfect.

Downsides

Whilst it is a brilliant device, there are a few items I’ve found that I believe they can improve on – and you need to keep these in mind if you’re going to purchase one:

Can’t PXT (send a picture text) (Updated: New feature now in v3)
The only way to send a picture with an iPhone is via E-mail. This is fine when you are sending pictures to other people with E-mail enabled handhelds, but if they don’t have one, then you won’t be sending them any pictures.

Email synchronisation schedule
Whilst having “push” ability so that I am up to the play with all of my emails very moment they arrive is a great feature, I like to have this turned off after business hours.

With the iPhone I have not yet found the ability to do this, and so an e-mail can wake you up at 2AM in the morning – therefore I’ve turned off any audible alert when an E-mail arrives.

You can set it to check at certain intervals (e.g. every half hour), but not set what hours of the day it will check within.

Can’t be used as a Bluetooth modem (Updated: New feature now in v3)
Whilst the device does support Bluetooth (for a headset or car-kit etc.), it cannot act as a Bluetooth modem. So if you use to get online with your laptop using your phone as a modem, it’s not going to work here.

So if you just want to browse the Internet, the iPhone can do it anyway, but if you do need your laptop online, you’ll have to find a wireless hot spot, or continue using a 3G data card.

All in all, the iPhone his hands down been the best business phone I have ever owned.

If you want to know if the iPhone can help your business, call us now- we’d be happy to help – 0800

PULSE IT.

Office 2003 --> Office 2007 - Making life easier

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 01:50:00 GMT

Have you recently moved from Office 2003 to 2007?

Whilst it's a huge efficiency improver, until you're familiar with the new layout you can find yourself from time to time trying to locate a button that you just can’t see any more.

So we have provided this quick link to a very helpful site which will tell you exactly where the icon has moved to in version 2007