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	<title>Geek Junk &#187; Reviews</title>
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	<link>http://geekjunk.com</link>
	<description>The musings of just another Geek and his Junk</description>
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		<title>Cisco Unified IP Phone 7940G Review</title>
		<link>http://geekjunk.com/cisco-unified-ip-phone-7940g</link>
		<comments>http://geekjunk.com/cisco-unified-ip-phone-7940g#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2009 00:39:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>The Geek</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[VoIP Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cisco]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cisco ip phone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cisco voip]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[unified communications]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[voip phone]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://geekjunk.com/?p=282</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://geekjunk.com/cisco-unified-ip-phone-7940g"><img align="left" hspace="5" width="150" height="150" src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/05/cisco7940g-150x150.jpg" class="alignleft wp-post-image tfe" alt="Cisco 7940G" title="Cisco 7940G" /></a>Voice over IP technology continues to gain ground over traditional technology everyday and will eventually replace it entirely. To meet this growing technological need Cisco offers up a wide variety of IP phones that are both technologically advanced as well as durable replacements for existing phones. The 7940G, is a well built functional VoIP phone [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/05/cisco7940g.jpg" alt="Cisco 7940G" title="Cisco 7940G" width="300" height="300" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-287" />Voice over IP technology continues to gain ground over traditional technology everyday and will eventually replace it entirely. To meet this growing technological need Cisco offers up a wide variety of IP phones that are both technologically advanced as well as durable replacements for existing phones. The 7940G, is a well built functional VoIP phone perfect for the average employee. A perfect complement to a Cisco Call Manager installation, this phone preforms well and is ideally suited to modern day offices. <span id="more-282"></span></p>
<p>The 7940G can be configured for up to two lines, each with a physical button to the side of the display screen. Other physical buttons include a messages button, which can be set to automatically enter one&#8217;s voicemail. There is a directory button to access missed dialed and received calls, as well as a corporate directory if it is configured in your system. There is a settings button that can be used to configure options on the phone, both technical such as networking settings, as well as items such as ring style and contrast. There is a services button that allows access to additional features that have been configured such as soft speed dial, news, and weather. Finally in the middle of those four is a help button that offers on screen assistance. </p>
<p>Along the bottom are three additional buttons. The first is shaped like a headset, will allow you to speak and hear through a seperatly attached headset connected to your phone. The button all the way to the right is the speaker phone button, allowing you to handle calls hands and attachment free, though be mindful of those around you, if you aren&#8217;t in an office or an enclosed cubical you might want to pass on the speaker phone, at least for calls to the doctor&#8230; Finally in the center is a mute button, useful for allowing you to hear the caller but not the other way around. </p>
<p>Other features include up to three person conference calls as well as your standard hold, and resume call options. With a configured phone system this can even be programed to play music or other recorded options. Also you can power the phone either though Power over Ethernet, or an external adapter. Plus there is an Ethernet jack on the back so that you can plug in your computer without having to worry about using up multiple connections. </p>
<p>With all Cisco products you can opt to get their warranty called Smart Net. Now, if you&#8217;re a small company who purchased three phones, you may want to protect your investment. If on the other hand you purchased five hundred phones, it will be cheaper to keep a few spares on hand. Generally speaking these phones will encounter few problems, they are durable, and well built. The only fragile part on them is the screen which can be damaged if hit too hard, so watch out for violent phone hang ups! </p>
<p>There&#8217;s not too much else to say about these phones. They offer the standard features of a digital phone plus a few extras. They are well made and hold up to wear and tear and for general office use this phone fits the role perfectly. If you need more lines, or hard coded speed dials, the 7960G is a similar phone with six buttons that can either be used for phone lines or speed dials. One last bit, despite the G in the name, the phone only connects at a 10/100 speed limiting both itself and any devices connected behind it. Something to consider if you want gigabit Ethernet to the desktop. </p>
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		<title>Dell Inspiron E7400 Review</title>
		<link>http://geekjunk.com/dell-inspiron-e7400</link>
		<comments>http://geekjunk.com/dell-inspiron-e7400#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2009 23:40:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>The Geek</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Computer Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dell computer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dell Desktop PC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dell Inspiron]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Desktop computer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Personal computer]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://geekjunk.com/?p=234</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://geekjunk.com/dell-inspiron-e7400"><img align="left" hspace="5" width="150" height="150" src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/04/dell_inspiron_e7400-150x150.jpg" class="alignleft wp-post-image tfe" alt="Dell Inspiron E7400" title="Dell Inspiron E7400" /></a>In recent years Dell has emerged as the king of the personal computer realm. Walk into any home or business and quite often you will see at least something made by Dell. However, having a popular brand and a large presence in the market, should not be the sole deciding factor when looking to purchase [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/04/dell_inspiron_e7400-231x300.jpg" alt="Dell Inspiron E7400" title="Dell Inspiron E7400" width="231" height="300" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-243" />In recent years Dell has emerged as the king of the personal computer realm. Walk into any home or business and quite often you will see at least something made by Dell. However, having a popular brand and a large presence in the market, should not be the sole deciding factor when looking to purchase a new computer. Lets take a look at one of Dell&#8217;s newer home computing systems, the Inspiron E7400 and see if it lives up to the branding that Dell has garnered over the past few years. <span id="more-234"></span></p>
<p>Coming in with a decent set of stats, the E7400 offers a package that is more than capable of day to day home computing. Activities such as web surfing, word processing, watching videos should not be a problem for this computer what so ever. The E7400 comes with a very capable optical drive, capable of burning CD&#8217;s and DVD&#8217;s right off the bat, with the included Roxio 10 burning software. Built into the front of the computer the E7400 comes with the increasingly common set of card readers that work with the majority of camera memory cards on the market. Light gaming should not be a problem as well, this would include basic windows games of course, as well as puzzle type games such as Jewel Quest. The graphics card however is a little on the lower end in terms of power, so I would recommend upgrading it if you want to play any more advanced 3D games, I am not saying they would not work, just that they would tax the computer&#8217;s resources. </p>
<p>With a price point of approximately 650 dollars, the E7400 falls into the budget computing range. Now, being a budget PC is not necessarily a bad thing. Being a budget PC in the current market means what you trade for in a good price is most often longevity. The old mantra, you get what you pay for, comes to mind, and unfortunately is true when it comes to modern computers. While it can vary greatly from computer to computer, as well as how well you maintain it, but the bottom line is, a budget computer just does not have the staying power as some of its higher end counterparts. Grabbing an extended warranty however, can often help mitigate this and while adding a little on top of the price tag, can still often come in less expensive than a more expensive computer. </p>
<p>The E7400 offers up decent stats, with a fairly decent price, however, for not too much more, there are other computers, such as HP&#8217;s Pavilion a6750y, which for less than a hundred dollars more offers much more in terms of computer power. Unless you really need to pinch pennies, find this on a sale or as part of a monitor/printer/computer deal, I would keep looking for a computer that gives you more bang for your buck. Even if you need to pinch pennies there are better budget brands such as eMachines that will offer similar staying power without paying for that Dell logo on the front. </p>
<p><strong>Specifications</strong>
<ol>
Warranty: 1 year parts and labor<br />
Operating System: Windows Vista 64 bit edition w/ Service Pack 1<br />
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo 2.5 GHz<br />
System Memory: 6GB (expandable out to 8GB)<br />
Hard Drive Capacity: 750 GB<br />
Graphics: Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X3100<br />
Network Interface: 10/100 Ethernet<br />
Optical Drive: DVD±RW/CD-RW<br />
Expansion Slots: 2 PCI, 1 PCI-E x1, 1 PCI-E x16<br />
Peripherals: Keyboard, Mouse, Speakers</p>
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		<title>SAMSUNG 2243BWX Review</title>
		<link>http://geekjunk.com/samsung-2243bwx</link>
		<comments>http://geekjunk.com/samsung-2243bwx#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2009 01:52:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>The Geek</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[computer monitor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Samsung]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Samsung computer monitor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Samsung display]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Samsung monitor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[widescreen monitor]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://geekjunk.com/?p=161</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://geekjunk.com/samsung-2243bwx"><img align="left" hspace="5" width="150" src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/04/s203-2414-main-150x150.jpg" class="alignleft wp-post-image tfe" alt="Samsung 2243BWX" title="Samsung 2243BWX" /></a>With widescreen, flat panel monitors becoming increasingly common, it becomes more difficult to make a solid decision as to which to purchase, and what to look for. While ultimately it comes down to personal preference, the Samsung 2243BWX offers up some nice features and superior performance that combined with an affordable price make it worth [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/04/s203-2414-main-150x150.jpg" alt="Samsung 2243BWX" title="Samsung 2243BWX" width="150" height="150" class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-199" />With widescreen, flat panel monitors becoming increasingly common, it becomes more difficult to make a solid decision as to which to purchase, and what to look for. While ultimately it comes down to personal preference, the Samsung 2243BWX offers up some nice features and superior performance that combined with an affordable price make it worth taking a good look at. <span id="more-161"></span></p>
<p>The first thing you&#8217;ll notice with this monitor is it&#8217;s sleek look and large screen size. Especially for those of you upgrading from older CRT or smaller LCD monitors, this will be a huge and noticeable upgrade. Even for those that have larger screens already, this monitor offers up a slick presentation as well as Energy Star compliance. The buttons to access the On Screen Display or OSD as well as the power button are flat and part of the bottom edge of the screen. You won&#8217;t have an extra &#8220;button&#8221; to push at all in fact, just push on the area of what you want to do, power, OSD, etc, and the monitor detects the force of your finger. The majority of the built in features are fairly standard for what is being offered. The OSD offers up the usual brightness and contrast, as well as position and color options. There is also an auto adjust feature to allow the screen to center itself according to the data it receives from your computer. It offers both a VGA and a DVI connection, that&#8217;s analog and digital for the less geeky folks in the audience, or blue and white plugs, for the extra non geeky! There are USB ports located on the stand rather than the front or side as some monitors, which depending on how you have the height adjusted means you will either have no problem at all, or the ports could be blocked by the screen itself. Beyond that, the monitor is one of the very few larger LCD screens on the market that comes with a matte background as opposed to a glossy background. This is extremely useful for those that find themselves in an area with lots of light as it significantly reduces glare.</p>
<p>Overall, the Samsung 2243BWX is a very nice, high quality monitor for the fairly low price compared to comparable monitors out there. It might not have the absolute top of the line features, but often those end up not being used with the monitor just being used well, as a monitor. If you&#8217;re looking for a good high quality monitor for a decent price, definitely consider this one.</p>
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		<title>Greenbox Spotlight</title>
		<link>http://geekjunk.com/greenbox-spotlight</link>
		<comments>http://geekjunk.com/greenbox-spotlight#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2009 20:43:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>The Geek</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[greenbox]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[interactive energy managment]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://geekjunk.com/?p=85</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://geekjunk.com/greenbox-spotlight"><img align="left" hspace="5" width="150" src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/02/greenbox_hor_color.jpg" class="alignleft wp-post-image tfe" alt="greenbox" title="greenbox_hor_color" /></a>There is a new technology when it comes to our energy systems; it is called The Greenbox Technology. What the company is doing is creating a one of a kind interactive energy management system that will allow all homes to be able to save money as well as lower their carbon footprint. With energy costs [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/02/greenbox_hor_color.jpg" alt="greenbox hor color Greenbox Spotlight" title="greenbox_hor_color" width="252" height="72" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-91" />There is a new technology when it comes to our energy systems; it is called <a href="http://getgreenbox.com">The Greenbox Technology.</a> What the company is doing is creating a one of a kind interactive energy management system that will allow all homes to be able to save money as well as lower their carbon footprint. With energy costs rising and global warming a reality, we need to do out part to help ensure the energy needs of the people in the world. <span id="more-85"></span></p>
<p>If a very small fraction of homes lowered the amount of energy use we normally would use on a monthly basis by just 20%. Then in past year those people who lowered their reliance on energy as an average could save over 80 billion dollars on the energy costs as well as reduce the amount of emissions by nearly 100 million tons of carbon dioxide, can you image that? It is possible for this to happen. Depending on where you live in the United States, you can lower your amount of money you save on your energy bill by at least 30 to 40% on a monthly basis.</p>
<p><strong>What are the benefits of Greenbox Technology?</strong></p>
<p>The premise of Greenbox is an Internet based solution system that will allow you the homeowner to follow the amount of energy you are using. There are no companies tracking your usage other than the electric companies. But as a homeowner, with Greenbox Technology, you can track your family&#8217;s usage and if you see areas where the cost is going to be high when the bill comes in, then you have the control to lower your bills.</p>
<p>We never really know how much energy we are using until the bills come in. With Greenbox you will be able not only to see where your energy is going but with how we can control and manage our own home energy use and this could result in a lot of money you could be saving.<br />
<img class="size-full wp-image-91 alignright" title="greenbox_hor_color" src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/02/greenbox_hor_color.jpg" alt="greenbox hor color Greenbox Spotlight" width="252" height="72" /><br />
Not only will you see how much energy you are using but also with this latest technology you can see how much your bills are going to be. It may be a trial and error as a home owner for a while but the first month when your bills are a bit high then the following month you will be able to set a plan to lower those bills and this can all be done with Greenbox Technology.</p>
<p>The Greenbox system will also allow you to get some energy saving opportunities along the way. They will help you realize and understand ways to save energy that you never thought of. In terms of your carbon footprint, this is something that we never really think of. The Greenbox Technology will calculate the carbon footprint based on your energy usage profile so you can measure and take in the reality of how your activities are making an impact on the environment.</p>
<p>Another great feature of the Greenbox Technology is that you will be able to see what others in your neighborhood are spending and using on electricity. Of course you will be able to do this anonymously so that no one will ever know what you are doing. You will also receive a Greenbox alert that you can receive either via email or SMS. This will keep you updated about any unusually high-energy rates or any changes in electricity prices before you see them on your next bill.<br />
How can I get involved?</p>
<p>Greenbox is a new technology so they are constantly looking for ways to help homeowners lower their bills as well as save the environment. Greenbox is always looking for people to join their company. They will also take in any suggestions that you may have or answer any questions that you might have. If you are the victim of company cutback and you want a rewarding job helping others save money as well as save the environment, the you should contact <a href="http://getgreenbox.com">Greenbox</a> through their website. They have plenty of job opportunities.</p>
<p><strong>Is the Greenbox Technology Available?</strong></p>
<p>Greenbox is currently working with 2 utility companies, the Silver Springs Networks and the Oklahoma Gas and Electric Company. The company is currently conducting in home trials. They are trying to perfect the system and make sure that the system is fully functioning and will be able to help the homeowner in the most efficient way possible. The company hopes to make Greenbox Technology available to homeowners in the near future.</p>
<p>Before this technology can be released the company are trying to establish a relationship with other utility companies as well as Smart Grid Companies who may be looking to grow their AMI Solutions System. They are looking to use real time feedback as well as on demand response programs and any energy efficient improvements that can be made.</p>
<p>If you currently work for a utility company or a Smart Grid Company, talk to your bosses about becoming a partner with the Greenbox Technology and be a part of a system that is one a kind and on the cutting edge of technology. Log onto their website and email and questions or any interest you have in becoming part of the solution.</p>
<p>Technology is a great thing and with technology comes advancement. Wouldn&#8217;t it be great if we could manage our own electric bills? Sure, we can turn off the lights and lower our energy costs by keeping our homes at a ridiculous temperature but with the Greenbox Technology we would not have to do that. There won&#8217;t be so many families who cannot afford their bills.</p>
<p>There may be some sacrifices that your family will have to make but to able to see what you are using before the bill comes it a great thing. Those founders of the company are trying to help as many people as they can with their energy bills as well as try to lower the carbon footprints that we put out everyday. The founders of this great new company are Jon Gay, Peter Santangeli, Matthew Smith, Gary Grossman and Robert Tatsumi.</p>
<p>This concept may sound too good to be true but it is a reality and it can help millions of people manage their electric not just by knowing how much energy you use but how much you will spend. If this concept does interest you, you should attend their planned events. Their next planned event is schedules for March 22nd to March 25th 2009 at the Hilton Miami Downtown in Miami Florida. Check out their website to see other events that are close to your home.</p>
<p>These events will provide the company&#8217;s vision and they explain how the plan will work and why it is so important to get this concept into people&#8217;s home as soon as possible. With so many families struggling to pay their bills, the utility companies are less forgiving of family&#8217;s financial situations. The homeowners need help as soon as they can and with Greenbox Technology it can be achieved.</p>
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		<title>Verizon Hub Phone Spotlight</title>
		<link>http://geekjunk.com/verizon-hub-phone-spotlight</link>
		<comments>http://geekjunk.com/verizon-hub-phone-spotlight#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2009 20:21:51 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>The Geek</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home phone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[HomePhone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hub]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[unified communications]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[verizon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[verizon hub]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[VerizonHub]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://geekjunk.com/?p=79</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://geekjunk.com/verizon-hub-phone-spotlight"><img align="left" hspace="5" width="150" height="150" src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/02/verizonhub-150x150.jpg" class="alignleft wp-post-image tfe" alt="verizonhub" title="verizonhub" /></a>Ever wondered if you could take all the best features of your cell phone, and the reliable low cost benefits of a landline and roll them all into one? Wonder no longer, Verizon’s new Hub Phone is finally going to be seeing the light of day and will soon find itself integrated into home networks [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-80" title="verizonhub" src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/02/verizonhub-300x183.jpg" alt="verizonhub 300x183 Verizon Hub Phone Spotlight" width="300" height="183" />Ever wondered if you could take all the best features of your cell phone, and the reliable low cost benefits of a landline and roll them all into one? Wonder no longer, Verizon’s new Hub Phone is finally going to be seeing the light of day and will soon find itself integrated into home networks and communications systems. <span id="more-79"></span></p>
<p>For those of you lucky enough to have worked in a company that is pushing out VoIP phones, you may already be familiar with being able to get any number of features such as weather info, text messages, or calendar updates, right from your phone. The Hub phone, takes all of those nifty features and rolls them into a nice neat home user experience. Think of it as something right out of Star Trek, with color touch screen displays and information at your fingertips.</p>
<p>While this is still technically a pre release phone and as such some of this information may change or be complemented with other information, the Hub phone is already starting to offer up a nice suite of features. Contact and calendar information can be synced up from your computer, combined further with available text messaging, creating a home unified communications setup. This is handy for keeping all your address, phone, and e-mail information both accurate and available from multiple devices. The Hub phone also offers weather, driving and traffic information right from your finger tips. How often have you wanted to check the weather real quickly, but found the computer or television tied up and unavailable? Yes, one can always stick their head out the window, but that will not tell you how it’s going to be 6 hours later, or 45 miles away.</p>
<p>Sounds too good to be true you say, must have a huge price tag. Well, actually the Hub Phone seems to be fairly decent, especially compared to what it can do and the presentation. The phone itself costs 200 dollars, after a 50 dollar mail in rebate, so be ready to have a decent amount of upfront cash. Though, compared to some cell phones, 250 dollars, does not really seem that unreasonable. The real measure of that amount is durability and costs for repair, yet for now that remains to be seen. The subscription fee though is much more reasonable when compared to similar plans. 35 dollars a month, with compared to other VoIP home solutions, such as Vonage, or Time Warner’s Digtial Phone package, which as of right now do not offer the same set of features is a very comparable amount. Finally, the real nice thing here, is that it can connect into any broadband connection, meaning that even if you do not use Verizon FIOS or DSL, you can still try out and make use of the Hub phone.</p>
<p>Will this be the end all answer to phones? No probably not, communication methods are growing all the time, but a success here will only help usher in a new age of digital communications, a new age of unified communications, where a phone number, e-mail, all of that is really one and the same. Like the railroads opened up the ability for populations to spread and merge, so too will more and more advanced communications lower barriers and allow a more global reach.</p>
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		<title>P3 Kill A Watt Review</title>
		<link>http://geekjunk.com/p3-kill-a-watt</link>
		<comments>http://geekjunk.com/p3-kill-a-watt#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 16 Feb 2009 20:49:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>The Geek</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Electricty Load Meter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Load Meter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[P3 Kill A Watt]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://geekjunk.com/?p=72</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://geekjunk.com/p3-kill-a-watt"><img align="left" hspace="5" width="150" height="150" src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/02/kill_a_watt_meter-150x150.jpg" class="alignleft wp-post-image tfe" alt="kill_a_watt_meter" title="kill_a_watt_meter" /></a>Times are tough and our electric bills are outstanding. What can we do to lower the monthly cost of the electric bill? Some people turn off everything they can in hopes of seeing just a small drop in their electric bills the following month. We never really take into account how much each electrical product [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/02/kill_a_watt_meter-183x300.jpg" alt="kill a watt meter 183x300 P3 Kill A Watt Review" title="kill_a_watt_meter" width="183" height="300" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-73" />Times are tough and our electric bills are outstanding. What can we do to lower the monthly cost of the electric bill? Some people turn off everything they can in hopes of seeing just a small drop in their electric bills the following month. We never really take into account how much each electrical product in out home gives off.</p>
<p>For example, electric companies base their calculation on wattage and price of per kilowatt. So why not test the items in your home and see how much your bills may be. In order to do this you will need a P3 Kill A Watt Electricity Load Meter and Monitor. <span id="more-72"></span></p>
<p>These monitors are priced around $ 15 to $ 20 and you can find them online in stores like <a href="http://newegg.com">Newegg</a> or <a href="http://thinkgeek.com">Think Geek</a>. This meter is a hand held device that you simply plug into the wall and then plug your appliance into it. The meter then does all of the work. You should base your calculations on a 24-hour period. Then read the amount of watts the appliances uses and see how much the electric company is changing you every day to use this appliance.</p>
<p>For example, let&#8217;s say you plug your meter into the wall and then plug your stove into the meter. Now read the meter 24 hours from the time you plugged in it. Then take the charge the electric company charges you just to simply have the stove plugged in over night when no one is using it. The simple money saving solution is to unplug the stove when no one is using it.   You will start to see the savings if you start doing this with every single electric product you have in your home.</p>
<p>You can do this with TV, DVD&#8217;s Computers, and Microwaves. If you started unplugging these items based on your P3 Kill A Watt Meter, then you will start to see the savings. With the P3 Kill A Watt Electricity Load Meter and Monitor, you will have the following features, an easy to read LCD display that will show you all of the meter readings including, voltage, current, watts, frequency, power factor and VA. As the unit is plugged in you will start to see the KWH and the power duration time only after the power is on.</p>
<p>The maximum voltage used is 125 VAC, the Max Current is 15 A, the meter also offers a 0.2% accuracy and you will see the cumulative kilowatt-hour monitor your electricity. Now that you see what the P3 meter does, how do others think it works? Most consumers who have tried it say that it worked perfectly.</p>
<p>They liked the simplicity of the meter and how accurate it is. Some have said that they lowered their bills by unplugging items that they don&#8217;t use at night.  The price is affordable and those consumers who have used the P3 Meter have used it on everything in the house they could</p>
<p>With times a bit rough, why not lower one of the bills that tend to be the highest. Invest in a P3 Electricity Load Meter and Monitor. It will really be one of the best investments you have ever made. You will start seeing the savings right away. It is well worth the price and the time you will spend collecting your data.</p>
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		<title>HP Deskjet D1530 Review</title>
		<link>http://geekjunk.com/hp-deskjet-d1530</link>
		<comments>http://geekjunk.com/hp-deskjet-d1530#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2009 14:36:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>The Geek</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[desk printer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[deskjet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hewlett packard printer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hp printer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[personal printer]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://geekjunk.com/?p=55</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://geekjunk.com/hp-deskjet-d1530"><img align="left" hspace="5" width="150" src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/02/hp-deskjet-d1530.jpg" class="alignleft wp-post-image tfe" alt="hp-deskjet-d1530" title="hp-deskjet-d1530" /></a>HP Deskjet D1530
Hewlett-Packard’s Deskjet D1530, is a low end personal printer that often gets bundled with their Slimline series of products. Despite being on the lower scale of home printers currently available for people who do not print too often and need a quick easy solution the D1530 is a decent fit. This would not [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/02/hp-deskjet-d1530.jpg" alt="hp deskjet d1530 HP Deskjet D1530 Review" title="hp-deskjet-d1530" width="220" height="120" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-56" /><strong>HP Deskjet D1530</strong></p>
<p>Hewlett-Packard’s Deskjet D1530, is a low end personal printer that often gets bundled with their Slimline series of products. Despite being on the lower scale of home printers currently available for people who do not print too often and need a quick easy solution the D1530 is a decent fit. This would not however be a good printer for either someone who prints a lot, or needs a rich set of features. <span id="more-55"></span></p>
<p>Installation of this printer is fairly quick and painless, once you have everything you need that is. First, the printer only ships with color ink, that’s fine if all you want to do is print in color, but most of us require black ink for the majority of what we print. Thankfully, ink cartridges for this printer are not very expensive; just make sure you pick one up before heading home. Second, as with most printers these days they do not ship with the required USB cable to actually connect it to your computer. This is not something unique to HP, just a fact about most modern printers. So, along with the ink, make sure you pick up a USB A to USB B cable. If you have trouble finding one ask a sales associate, any store selling a printer will have these cables it’s just a matter of tracking them down. Try to get a cable at least 10 feet (3.1 meters) in length if not longer. It may seem like a lot up front, but trust that the extra length will come in handy if you need to route cables behind a desk or move the printer to a different location. Finally, if this is your first printer you will want to print up some paper as well as this printer does not even come with a sample pack. Multifunction paper works just fine, but pick up whatever your preference is.</p>
<p>Once you have the supplies in tow, setup as mentioned earlier is quick and painless. Follow the quick start guide, it has pictures and a step by step guide that unless there was a defect with the device itself should go off without a hitch. From there, you should be able to print away. While not the quietest printer, the D1530 is not obnoxiously loud, but it will click and clack around a bit, so if you are going to print on a regular or semi regular basis you may want to move the printer just a little further away. You did pick up the slightly longer cable right? Again, this is more a matter of preference that only you will be able to decide on after setting it up and hearing for yourself what it sounds like.</p>
<p>A few issues to keep in mind, the ink cartridges are fairly small, and the color comes in one unit, unlike some fancier models that split out the color cartridges. This means that if you print with any sort of regularity your ink will not last too long. As they are not too expensive if you find that you run out more often than not, it might be worth the investment to keep an extra on hand, at least of black ink, so you never get caught not being able to print. Also, the paper tray is not very large and double as both intake and outtake. Try not to print more than ten pages at once, or if you do stay close by and when they start to pile up carefully but quickly take the already printed pages and move them to the side.</p>
<p>With the limitations on printing larger jobs or printing regularly, this printer is ideal only for those that need only the occasional print job. Couple that with a little bit higher price, this printer is fine if you are getting it on sale or in a bundle, but for just a little more one can purchase a much more capable printer with better features and print handling. Still, for a cheap printer that is not going to be used heavily this manages to do the job just fine.</p>
<p><strong>Specifications</strong></p>
<p>•    1 Year Warranty<br />
•    HP Tri Color Ink Cartridge 22 (Included)<br />
•    HP Black Ink Cartridge 21 (Not Included)</p>
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		<title>Linksys WMP300N Wireless Adapter Review</title>
		<link>http://geekjunk.com/linksys-wmp300n-wireless-adapter</link>
		<comments>http://geekjunk.com/linksys-wmp300n-wireless-adapter#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2009 22:52:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>The Geek</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home wireless]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home wireless networking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[linksys networking equipment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[linksys wireless]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[linksys wireless adapter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wireless adapter]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://geekjunk.com/?p=47</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://geekjunk.com/linksys-wmp300n-wireless-adapter"><img align="left" hspace="5" width="150" height="150" src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/02/linksys-wmp300n-wireless-adapter-150x150.jpg" class="alignleft wp-post-image tfe" alt="linksys-wmp300n-wireless-adapter" title="linksys-wmp300n-wireless-adapter" /></a>Linksys WMP300N Wireless Adapter
The Linksys WMP300N is an internal PCI wireless card for a desktop computer. Designed to provide high speed wireless access to your desktop, this card boasts an external antenna that can be placed anywhere around your computer to help maximize the signal reception to your computer. As part of the current draft [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/02/linksys-wmp300n-wireless-adapter.jpg" alt="linksys wmp300n wireless adapter Linksys WMP300N Wireless Adapter Review" title="linksys-wmp300n-wireless-adapter" width="280" height="280" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-48" /><strong>Linksys WMP300N Wireless Adapter</strong></p>
<p>The Linksys WMP300N is an internal PCI wireless card for a desktop computer. Designed to provide high speed wireless access to your desktop, this card boasts an external antenna that can be placed anywhere around your computer to help maximize the signal reception to your computer. As part of the current draft Wireless N standard, this card takes advantage of the latest wireless technology, Multiple Input Multiple Output or MIMO. With the MIMO technology, this generation of wireless can achieve speeds more than doubling the current rates found with Wireless G. However, it is also backwards compatible with Wireless G allowing you to receive and maximize on connections from an older router better than with a Wireless G alternative. <span id="more-47"></span></p>
<p>The WMP300N offers reliable wireless access that takes full advantage of the internal workings of your computer. Rather than have to fool around with a USB device that often will take up the neighboring port as well, this adaptor becomes a fully integrated component inside your computer. With some internal wireless adaptors this can be a problem as it means the antennas are stuck to the back of the computer. Put it under a desk, sit in front of it and it can really degrade your signal reception. The WMP300N solves this with an external antenna with an extension cord long enough to allow placement of the antenna anywhere around your computer desk. The antenna itself features three separate individual antennas providing maximum reception from your access point. </p>
<p>Being an internal component to your computer as opposed to an external adapter such as a USB wireless device, there is a slightly higher degree of technical skill involved. That being said, Linksys provides fairly detailed instructions for this adapter making it fairly easy to install for even the most basic of computer users. A few words of caution, always make sure that the computer is off and unplugged before adding and removing components. Also, make sure you are standing in an area free from extra static build up such as a carpet or rug. Static can discharge and damage your computer with a person not even able to feel it. Those warnings aside, if you follow the included instructions you should be just fine, but if you feel you need extra assistance look for either an unsuspecting relative that can help you, or a local computer repair shop that won’t charge as much as Best Buy.</p>
<p>The actual install process is fairly painless. Linksys has to run their CD, shut down the computer, install the card, turn the computer back and finish the setup. From their they provide their own console for connecting to wireless networks, which is fairly painless so long as you know all the proper information for your home wireless network. If your wireless is provided to you by your internet provider they should be able to give you all of the information over the phone. </p>
<p>Once the card is installed and configured you are ready to start taking advantage in the latest wireless technology. Again, Wireless N uses its MIMO technology to provide significantly faster data transfer rates over the previous G standard. Combine this with a Wireless N capable router to take full advantage of this technology and you will be rewarded with wireless that is a reasonable alternative even to a 10/100 wired connection, making this handy for people whose internet connection is not near their computers but still need a viable alternative to be able to get work done. The WMP300N is a great choice when paired with or without a Wireless N router in terms of picking up signals and maximizing data transfer rates. </p>
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		<title>Linksys WRT110 RangePlus Wireless Router Review</title>
		<link>http://geekjunk.com/linksys-wrt110-rangeplus-wireless-router</link>
		<comments>http://geekjunk.com/linksys-wrt110-rangeplus-wireless-router#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2009 19:57:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>The Geek</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home wireless]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[linksys wireless]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[linksys wireless router]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wireless]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wireless router]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://geekjunk.com/?p=42</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://geekjunk.com/linksys-wrt110-rangeplus-wireless-router"><img align="left" hspace="5" width="150" height="150" src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/02/linksys-wrt110-rangeplus-wireless-router-150x150.jpg" class="alignleft wp-post-image tfe" alt="linksys-wrt110-rangeplus-wireless-router" title="linksys-wrt110-rangeplus-wireless-router" /></a>Linksys WRT110 RangePlus Wireless Router
Linksys’ WRT110 Router, is their entry level addition to the Wireless N market. While not technically part of the Wireless N draft standard, it does use the technology behind Wireless N to provide some very solid performance well over what Wireless G is capable of. Capitalizing on the new Multiple Input [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/02/linksys-wrt110-rangeplus-wireless-router.jpg" alt="linksys wrt110 rangeplus wireless router Linksys WRT110 RangePlus Wireless Router Review" title="linksys-wrt110-rangeplus-wireless-router" width="280" height="280" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-43" /><strong>Linksys WRT110 RangePlus Wireless Router</strong></p>
<p>Linksys’ WRT110 Router, is their entry level addition to the Wireless N market. While not technically part of the Wireless N draft standard, it does use the technology behind Wireless N to provide some very solid performance well over what Wireless G is capable of. Capitalizing on the new Multiple Input Multiple Output functionality of Wireless N, this router seeks to provide home users a gateway into better connections and faster data rates. Combine that with the latest security features, interoperability with Wireless B and G, and a slick new look and you have yourself a nice starter router in the Wireless N realm. <span id="more-42"></span></p>
<p>First and foremost, the biggest feature that stands out on this router is its Wireless N capability. Wireless N is the next major advance in wireless technology, offering eventually offering speeds up to 14 times faster than Wireless G counterparts. In addition to speed bonuses both the N capability plus Linksys’ RangePlus technology offers superior wireless coverage through walls and floors alike. In fact, you will have to take extra precautions to lock this router down because your neighbors well almost certainty be able to see your network now. The added bonus of RangePlus, is that unlike other manufacturers similar feature sets, RangePlus works with any vendors equipment. This means for you, that any existing, or future for that matter, Wireless N adaptors will take full advantage of what this router has to offer.</p>
<p>In addition to the Wireless N features, the WRT110, also comes with the standard set of features most home wireless routers come with. This includes a full security suite, providing both a hardware firewall, as well as the latest in over the air encryption. In addition to the standard security it also offers Wi-Fi Protected Setup which forces users to push a button on the physical router before a new device can connect for the first time. Very good tool in keeping unwanted neighbors or would be attackers from connecting to your network. Along with the security features, the WRT110 also offers the standard 4 port switch built in, allowing for nearby computers to connect into your network via a hardwired connection.</p>
<p>As a dual capable router, the WRT110 can operate both with Wireless N networks as well as the Older Wireless B and G networks. The nice thing about this particular router though is, that it suffers very little in terms of performance when running in a mixed mode environment. This allows you to upgrade your home network over time rather than having to run out and spend an arm and a leg upgrading every piece of wireless technology in the house.</p>
<p>While not the highest end wireless network on the market, the WRT110, offers quality at a much higher level than G counterparts, and comes in just slightly behind full on Wireless N equipment. Shop around for this and get a decent sale price and it will be more than worth the investment as a step up from an older worn out router.</p>
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		<title>Intel Core 2 Quad Q9550 Review</title>
		<link>http://geekjunk.com/intel-core-2-quad-q9550</link>
		<comments>http://geekjunk.com/intel-core-2-quad-q9550#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2009 21:38:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>The Geek</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Core 2 Quad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Intel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Intel Processor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Quad Core Processor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Quad Core Q9550]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://geekjunk.com/?p=34</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://geekjunk.com/intel-core-2-quad-q9550"><img align="left" hspace="5" width="150" height="150" src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/02/intel-core-2-quad-q9550-150x150.jpg" class="alignleft wp-post-image tfe" alt="intel-core-2-quad-q9550" title="intel-core-2-quad-q9550" /></a>The Intel Core 2 Quad, is as the name implies a Quad Core processor produced as part of the Core 2 family of processors from Intel. The Q9550 presents itself as a mid to high level processor and does not disappoint. Offering a 2.83 GHz clock rate over each core, this processor is a true [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="http://geekjunk.com/wp-content/uploads/pictures/2009/02/intel-core-2-quad-q9550.jpg" alt="intel core 2 quad q9550 Intel Core 2 Quad Q9550 Review" title="intel-core-2-quad-q9550" width="250" height="250" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-35" />The Intel Core 2 Quad, is as the name implies a Quad Core processor produced as part of the Core 2 family of processors from Intel. The Q9550 presents itself as a mid to high level processor and does not disappoint. Offering a 2.83 GHz clock rate over each core, this processor is a true powerhouse right out of the box. Combine this processor with an operating system and application suite that is optimized for a four core system and your computer will be waiting for you to do something rather than the other way around. <span id="more-34"></span></p>
<p>The Q9550 boasts an impressive array of specs, the first and foremost of which is a 2.83 GHz clock rate providing an impressive amount of raw computing power. It also features a 1333 MHz front side bus, 12 MB L2 cache, 45 nm construction, support for both 64 bit operating systems and virtualization, add on to that buffer over flow protection and a 3 year warranty and  that is one impressive looking processor, or so someone told you. Yes those specs are really good, but what do they mean in practicality?</p>
<p>Essentially what those specs mean to the average user, is that the processor will act like less of a bottle neck in terms of computing operations. The front side bus and the clock rate allow for data to get sent to and from the processor at rates fast enough to keep the processor busy and not waiting for the data rate to catch up to it. This means even under a heavy workload you will still be enjoying using your computer rather than wanting to throw it out the window.</p>
<p>As with any processor, it has to work in tandem with the motherboard. For the case of the Q9550, even though the socket type of LGA 775 is fairly common make sure to double check with the motherboard manufacturer to verify that your processor will be compatible. Finally, with the release of the Core i7 processor family, drops in cost have already become common meaning that you can pick up this reliable processor for a reasonable price yet still enjoy a high end performance. </p>
<p><strong>Specifications</strong>
<ul>
Warranty: Parts and Labor 3 Years<br />
Model Number: BX80569Q9550<br />
Socket Type: LGA 775<br />
Core: Yorkfield<br />
Frequency: 2.83GHz<br />
Front Side Bus: 1333MHz<br />
L2 Cache: 12MB<br />
Die Level: 45 nm<br />
64 bit Support: Yes<br />
Virtualization Support: Yes<br />
Multimedia Instruction: MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSE4, EM64T<br />
Voltage: 0.85V – 1.3625V<br />
Thermal Power: 95W<br />
Fan and Heat Sink: Included
</ul>
<p><strong>Compatible Motherboards</strong><br />
This list is composed of Motherboards certified by manufacturers for being compatible. It is by no means all inclusive, but rather just a good starting point for finding a solid compatible motherboard that meets what type of computer you want to build. The list is alphabetical from some of the larger manufacturers. The motherboards themselves are ordered by customer ratings.</p>
<ul>
<strong>Asus</strong><br />
ASUS P5Q Turbo LGA 775 Intel P45 ATX<br />
ASUS P5Q Pro LGA 775 Intel P45 ATX<br />
ASUS P5N-D LGA 775 NVIDIA nForce 750i SLI ATX<br />
ASUS P5E LGA 775 Intel X38 ATX<br />
ASUS RAMPAGE FORMULA LGA 775 Intel X48 ATX</ul>
<ul>
<strong>EVGA</strong><br />
EVGA 123-YW-E175-A1 LGA 775 NVIDIA nForce 750i SLI FTW ATX<br />
EVGA 132-CK-NF79-A1 LGA 775 NVIDIA nForce 790i Ultra SLI ATX</p>
<ul>
<strong>Gigabyte</strong><br />
GIGABYTE GA-G31M-ES2L LGA 775 Intel G31 Micro ATX<br />
GIGABYTE GA-EP45-UD3L LGA 775 Intel P45 ATX<br />
GIGABYTE GA-EP45-UD3R LGA 775 Intel P45 ATX<br />
GIGABYTE GA-EP45-UD3P LGA 775 Intel P45 ATX</ul>
<ul>
<strong>XFX</strong><br />
XFX MB-N780-ISH9 LGA 775 NVIDIA nForce 780i SLI<br />
XFX MBN790IUL9 LGA 775 NVIDIA nForce 790i Ultra SLI ATX
</ul>
<p>As always, feel free to leave any questions or comments you have!</p>
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