A few decades ago, the computers we used had displays made from cathode ray tubes. This made the size of the computer considerably large, having three aspects to them. These were input devices like mouse and keyboard, monitor, and a computer case!
Over a period of time, newer and improved technology resulted in smaller monitors, creating the need to reduce the size of the display, as well as to make the computer case built into the monitor. This gave rise to all-in-one computers. Even though these resulted from reduced size of displays, the first model was considerably large and expensive to install.
The Apple iMac was one of these all-in-one computers that seemed to create all the buzz. Originally, it was made on what seemed to be one block. The cathode ray display had all the components sitting under it.
While many other personal computer manufacturers adopted this design, they weren’t quite able to catch the essence of the iMac. LCD technology has helped reduce the size of the displays, which has resulted in the decreased size of personal computers as well as smartphones. This is because the LCD panel or even the display base could easily have the components embedded in them.
Desktop PC vs. all-in-one PC
All-in-one computers have redefined the style factor of most personal computers. While they do not make much of a difference in terms of functionality and specifications, the number of PC components varies. Desktop PC’s consist of a separate monitor as well as the computer case. On the other hand, the all-in-one computers have a display like a single box. This adds to the advantages of the all-in-one over the desktop PC.
While the counter-argument may be brought up that there are a new set of desktop computers like the Apple Mac Mini seem to be better suited, there are other advantages associated with all-in-one computers. A lot of wiring that may seem to make the computer bulky, and this is reduced in the all-in-one PC due to the integrated components.
Having said this, the Desktop PC brings quite a few things to the table that make it compelling to consider them as well. Because of the reduced size of all-in-one PCs, the memory, processor, and other drivers all need to be made smaller and this can affect their performance considerably. This may seem fast enough for most people. However, that does not justify the better performance given by desktop PCs.
Another factor to consider is that all-in-one computers are not as easily upgradable as Desktop PCs. The smaller components in the all-in-one PC’s makes it difficult to open and upgrade as compared to desktop PCs that are better suited for upgradability. With the graphics and USB drives growing at a rapid pace in terms of technology, upgradability matters a lot.
All-in-one computers vs. laptops
The biggest advantage that the all-in-one computer has over the desktop is the size. However, it is not the case when a laptop is bought into the picture. Laptop technology has advanced by leaps and bounds over the past few decades, so much so that one can compare the all-in-one computers with laptops.
Although the performance given by both these models are typically the same due to the similarity in size of the components, the laptop usually has a restricted size for display compared to the all-in-one computer. Laptops have the added advantage of being portable and more flexible, making it more convenient for users. The biggest advantage, however, comes from price as the laptops are considerably cheaper than the all-in-one PC.
In conclusion, the desktop has become less popular due to the advent of laptops in the market. Cost and portability have played a huge margin in this. However, performance and upgrades make the desktop PC a good option and are recommended to those looking for a good device for different purposes.
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Points to consider while buying used or refurbished laptops
Read moreUsed laptops are very different from refurbished laptops even though these two words are used interchangeably. First of all, lets understand the meaning of both of the laptops and gradually, the difference will be clear too. Used laptops, as the name suggests, have been previously used by someone. It is after the usage that these are sold to some other person.
Refurbished laptops might or might not have been used. They should have been having some minor defect like scratches or the issue may also be major and relating to the software. These defects were removed by the company and they have been restored to the condition of a brand new laptop. The refurbished laptops are thus, checked thoroughly for being capable of working as a new laptop. Hence, they are different from used laptops in many aspects.
The first difference between the two is that used laptops are not checked for their working before reselling, while refurbished laptops are thoroughly checked and repaired before reselling. Usually, refurbished laptops, due to minor defects, are returned to the manufacturer or seller. It is the company that deals with the further reselling of the product after repairing it. But the used laptops are usually directly sold by the previous owner of the laptop.
This difference is all the more reason that buying refurbished laptops is much more reliable than buying used ones. Third major difference is that the price of refurbished laptops is more than that of used laptops. This difference in price is justified as the working of a refurbished laptop competes to that of a brand new laptop and is certainty better than that of a used laptop. On this basis, refurbished laptop is a preferred option when it comes to both performance and price. It completes new laptops in price and used ones in usage.
Refurbished laptops usually come with a warranty, while the used laptops may or may not have a warranty; the warranty of the used laptop depends on the time of usage and the warranty received by the previous owner. Generally speaking, refurbished laptops are supposed to be more reliable as they are purchased from the company outlet or an agent. The seller has the responsibility as the warranty would have been given while the refurbished laptop was sold.
Used laptops, on the other hand, are less reliable as the liability of the seller (who is usually the previous owner of the laptop) ends when the resale takes place. So, whenever you are buying a refurbished laptop, a person can be assured that he has some place to go if something goes wrong with his laptop. Such luxury is absent when it comes to buying a used laptop unless the warranty is still valid.
Despite having so many points in their favor, it is not 100% guaranteed that a user will have a better experience with a refurbished laptop than that of a used laptop. Even though there is no warranty along with a used laptop, it is no reason to think that it won’t perform well. Similarly, having a warranty doesn’t mean a refurbished laptop is sure to give a pleasant usage experience.
It is so that some laptops are better refurbished than the others. The buyer has no way of finding out how thorough the laptop has been checked apart from buying and using it. Moreover, a person might need a laptop for very limited use and a used laptop may suffice. Even though a refurbished laptop has an edge over the used one in more aspects than one, it can never be said that users will stop considering the option of buying a used laptop.
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7 ways to keep the charcoal grill clean
Read moreCharcoal barbecue grill-made foods are full of flavors, but to maintain the functionality of the grill, it needs some cleaning along with regular maintenance. Like any other kitchen appliance, charcoal BBQ grill needs cleaning at least once or even twice at the time of the grilling season. It’s important as the ash or carbon, and rust buildup is not healthy for your health.
Even manufacturers recommend cleaning the public grills before use because, before you, someone has used it.
Here is a checklist to ensure you have all the necessary things for cleaning the charcoal barbecue grill.- Several grills do not have peeling scope inside the lids due to a coating of porcelain enamel. You may find some small pieces of paint like debris sometimes. Relax! These aren’t any kind of paint but the accumulated grease and smoke which are collected while using the grill. Make sure to check these things if you’re purchasing a charcoal grill on sale. The debris can be removed by simple brushing. Use a stainless steel brush before grilling. If you want to prevent the accumulation in future, wipe the grill with paper towels. Even mild soap water solution can also be used after the cooking is finished. Always do this when the charcoal barbecue grill is warm but watch out for the temperature.
- If you want to clean the inside portion, there are two ways; you can use machine One-Touch for removing excess grease and smoke accumulation out of the kettle bowl. Or use mild dishwashing soap with steel wool pad.
- For cooking grates to be free from stain and ash, preheat the grill and open all the vents while maintaining the grill temperature high. Keep it like this for 10 to 15 minutes, and after that use the bristle brush made of stainless steel to dust off remaining debris. Residue attached to the grate can cause the food to stick while grilling.
- For maintaining the charcoal BBQ grill perfectly fine for cooking, you can wipe down the lid as well as the bowl during cooling. Use mild detergent water or glass cleaner for this to get spotless shine.
- Check the ash catcher every time you grill. Keep it sufficiently empty and don’t overcrowd the catcher.
- Scrubbing with aluminum foil can be of excellent use. You can use it to clean the leftover debris off the part of the grate.
- If you’re using a public grill, make sure to place a paper bag or plastic to remove the debris out of the charcoal barbecue grill into another bag.
Keep the aluminum foil, paper, and plastic bags, bristle brush, putty knife and grill brush (coarse brush) in store if you’re working on a charcoal barbecue grill. A properly cleaned grill can elevate the taste of the food by maintaining appropriate hygiene.
If you haven’t purchased one already, look for the best charcoal grills on sale. However, opt for reliable and reputed brands even if you want to buy charcoal grills for sale.