Discovering Computers

Chapter 3: Computers and Mobile Devices

Webcams: is someone spying on you?

Watch this report from NBC news about how someone can hack into your webcam and watch everything you do, without you even knowing. Most importantly, the video provides tips on how to avoid this happening to you.

Viruses and other malware (malicious software)

Viruses attach to a program file and spreads when the user runs an infected app or program. Other malware includes worms, which can replicate itself and infect the entire system.
Page 23 of chapter 1 and page 106 of chapter 3 discusses malware. Chapters 3 and 4 provide further explanation, along with good tips to help avoid infections.

 The best way to avoid a virus is to behave safely.

  • It's easy to be carless with online behavior. Can you outsmart a hacker? Take this safety quiz.
  • Use a firewall. Windows comes with one. Open the Control Panel and click System and Security and then Windows Firewall. If you're using another firewall (i.e. - Norton Internet Security), Windows firewall will automatically be turned off. More than one firewall on at the same time can cause conflicts.
  • Consider using another browser such as Firefox instead of Internet Explorer.
  • Delete executable or risky email attachments.
  • Use an aggressive spam filter.
  • Use a standard (not Administrator) account for everyday use. Click Start > Control Panel > Add or remove user accounts (the blue link)  > Create a new account > Standard user option
  • Learn to recognize untrustworthy websites and email. Before you visit a suspect website, check www.stopbadware.org
  • Windows 8 / 8.1 comes with Microsoft Security Essentials (Windows Defender). Windows Vista or 7 does not come with antivirus software. For anti-virus software recommendations, see links above.
  • If you think you have a virus already, try the following to eradicate it:
  • Spyware and Adware:
    • Spyware monitors your activities. Adware displays annoying advertisements. Sometimes spyware is hidden in adware.
    • You're most likely to pick up spyware and adware when you download file file-sharing (peer-to-peer), screen savers, toolbars, etc. Avoid these!
    • Windows Vista and 7 does come with spyware protection: Windows Defender (antivirus software is included in Windows 8 / 8.1 and it is still called Windows Defender). By default it is on. Choose Start and type "defender" in the search box to view the settings in the software.
    • No spyware cleaner can detect every spyware program. Try Ad-Aware SE Personal Edition from www.lavasoftusa.com and Spybot Search & Destroy from www.safer-networking.org (click the links to go directly to the download page to obtain the free spyware protection only - not the antivirus part of the program. If you want the antivirus too, type the web site address above into your browser).
  • Many browsers include features that help protect against phishing and pop-ups.

Three preventions can help ensure that your data is protected and you can restore your computer system in the event of a crash. 1) backup your data, 2) create a system image and 3) create a system repair disc.

Cloud computing

The "cloud" consists of servers that provide storage, services, and access to resources. I personally prefer Google Drive as it provides 15GB of storage for free. Why bother with a flash drive?! Below are links to resources, in addition to page 116 of your book, that may be of interest to you.

Recycling of electronics

As mentioned on page 117, only 20 percent of e-waste is recycled. Don't pollute the environment Visit the United States Environmental Protection Agency to learn where to donate or recycle your old electronics.

Smartphone purchase guidelines

A few guidelines for purchasing a smartphone are outlined on page 123. A recent bill passed by congress allows consumers to legally unlock* their cell phones, which enables consumers to use their phone with other, additional carriers. The bill does have limits (it only lasts until 2015 until it is again reviewed and it doesn't apply to tablets). But, it may be a start in the right direction for consumers. Learn more:

*Mobile phones sold by carriers in the US are integrated with software that locks the devices' capabilities to only one carrier's network.

How to fix common Android problems

Seven tips from C|net

E-Book readers

E-book readers are one of the many mobile devices discussed in chapter 3 (page 124). Did you know you can check out free digital books (and audio books) at a library? I use the Grand Rapids and Holland public libraries, a Nook device, the OverDrive and Nook apps on my Android phone, and the Adobe ADE software on my desktop (required for Nooks that are not color or HD). I am able to download and read free books on multiple devices. I also purchase books with my Nook device and Nook app. However, if you're only interested in borrowing books from your library, this process can be simplified. If you're interested in some tips and the basics of how all this works on whatever device you own, continue reading below:

  • Besides an Internet connection, you need three things to get started (1) a library card so that you are able to check out books, (2) the appropriate software, and (3) a computer and/or device.
  • All libraries use what is called OverDrive.  OverDrive is a global distributor of digital eBooks.
    Visit the OverDrive site for more information. You will need to download and install the OverDrive application software no matter what type of computer or device you use to check out and read free books.
  • OverDrive's site provides step-by-step directions and videos for how to get started, how to borrow eBooks and audio books and how to use the OverDrive app on your mobile device.
  • Digital books for the Nook have been available at libraries for years using OverDrive. Amazon's Kindle proprietary format became available October 2011 to many digital libraries. As of 2014, the number of books available for the Nook and Kindle are about the same, although libraries usually receive digital books for the Nook a few days before the Kindle (at least in Holland, MI).
  • The Nook uses Adobe’s ePub format, which is the widely used and accepted industry standard. You will want to select the ePub format when you check out a digital book..
  • If you're using a simple Nook, digital libraries require the Adobe Digital Editions (ADE) free software installed on your computer. If you're using a color or HD nook, you'll need the OverDrive Media Console (OMC) instead. Both software applications allow you to checkout, download, organize and transfer books, from the library, to your computer and devices. OMC is a little easier to use than ADE.
  • One nice advantage of checking out eBooks from your library, there are no late fees! When the book is due, and if you don't renew, it will automatically expire on your computer or device (you can try to read the book, but it won't open).

For me, I keep Holland's Herrick District library website bookmarked in my browser on my desktop computer. I then sign in to the library's site with my library card number, pick a book, and download the ePub format (a format for Nook) for my chosen book. The book then opens in the ADE software on my desktop for reading. Instead of reading on my desktop computer, I prefer to read eBooks on my Nook or Android phone:

  • Nook
    To read a library book on the Nook device (or mobile device with the Nook app), I use a USB cable to connect my Nook to my desktop computer. Next, I open the ADE software, select the desired book in the list of items and then drag it to my Nook device. This process is referred to as "sideloading" titles.
    On my Nook, I navigate to the Library and choose My Files (sometimes the library eBook is located in the Digital Editions folder instead)..
  • Android
    To read a library book on my Android phone, I open the OverDrive media app on my phone, sign in with my library card number (the Herrick District library was added and saved earlier), tap the account icon (looks like a solid black head and shoulders), tap the book to select it and begin reading! What is nice about using the OverDrive media app on the Android is that I do not have to sideload it as I do for the Nook. I can choose a book, download and begin reading it on my smartphone (using a browser). I do not need to download using my computer first and then transfer (sideload) it to my device.

To simplify checking out library books and reading on your mobile device(s), all you really need to do is download the OverDrive media app onto your device. You can find the app from the OverDrive site, Google Play or Apple stores. You do not have to use services associated with Nook or Kindle or even use ADE / OMC software. Also, creating an OverDrive account is optional; this is used to sync your bookmarks, libraries and Adobe ID across devices. After you have downloaded and installed the OverDrive media app, next locate your library, enter your library card number, enter your Adobe ID,* and you're set to look for your favorite titles and check out books! After you have set up the app with your library, library card number and Adobe ID, you never have to do it again. All that is required for books you borrow in the future is opening the OverDrive media app and tapping the book you want to check out!

*Registering for an Adobe ID is free and a link to register is provided in the app, if needed.

Are apps qualified to provide medical advice?

Some criticize fitness apps as they have not been evaluated by medical personnel. Page 126 raises several questions about these apps. One fitness app user claims a fitness bracelet actually made her gain weight (see video).. What do you think after watching this video and reading chapter 3?

Does in-vehicle technology foster a false sense of security?

Watch video for another perspective, provided by NBC, than what is discussed on page 127.

Ports and Connectors

If you're looking for clarification for the variety of ports and connectors on page 130, or just want to learn more than explained in the text book, keep reading. As shown on page 129., computers and mobile devices have ports so that you can connect the computer or mobile device to peripherals such as a keyboard, printer, monitor, etc . This allows the peripheral device to send data or receive information from the computer or mobile device. A cable, with two connectors, attaches to a port on the computer or mobile device to the port on the peripheral device. Many ports and connectors are pictured on page 130. Below is additional information about some of these ports and connectors.

  • Thunderbolt (pictured page page 130) was introduced on the MacBook Pro in 2011. It was co-developed by Apple and Intel and allows for high-speed data transfer. Although Apple adopted the technology first, PCs are starting to support Thunderbolt ports (HP is an example). Thunderbolt is not just for Macs anymore. Now available is Thunderbolt 2, which is four times faster than USB 3. Video editors especially love Thunderbolt's speed.
  • USB 3.0 is the third major version of the Universal Serial Bus (USB). It allows for high speed data transfer rate (although not as fast as Thunderbolt, but ten times faster than USB 2.0). When purchasing a computer or mobile device, you may want to look for USB 3.0 instead of USB 2.0. Keep in mind though that older USB devices do not run any faster in a newer USB port. Also, did you know it can be easy to add USB 3.0 to your desktop PC? All you need is an available PCI slot and about $25 to upgrade.
  • What's the difference between a Type A and a Type B USB?
    Type A is rectangle and typically found on smaller computer devices like a mouse or a flash drive. It is the most recognizable and commonly used.
    Type B is a square shape and typically found on larger computer devices like printers and scanners.
  • FireWire was developed by Apple and provides a high-speed connection. Although it was once standard on Apple computers, it has since been replaced by Thunderbolt and later versions of USB.
  • HDMI and DisplayPorts are both digital audio/video standards. HDMI made it's first appearance around 2003. It is the most common digital connection for TVs, game consoles, camcorders, etc. Display ports appeared in 2006 as part of an effort to replace the much older VGA (Video Graphics Array) and DVI (Digital Video Interface). DisplayPorts are designed to be the ultimate display interface for computers. Since they target different devices, they compliment each other. Better desktop PCs support DisplayPorts in addition to HDMI. Laptops have less room for ports, therefore you don't see as often for consumer laptops (but may find on business-oriented laptops). Learn more from PC World.
  • Lightning is a proprietary connector by Apple. You can plug this connector upside up or upside down. Learn more from Tech Radar.
  • Mini USB is smaller and found on handheld devices such as a mobile phones, digital cameras, and MP3 players. Micro USBs are newer (came out in 2007 and is not mentioned in your book) and smaller and is replacing mini USBs. Apple does not use Micro or Mini USB as Lightning is their proprietary connector.
  • Mini HDMI is a smaller version of the HDMI and tiny enough to be used on tablets and larger cameras. Micro HDMI (not in your book) is even smaller and used on smaller cameras and tablets. Users can connect their mobile device to HDMI compatible computer monitors, TVs and video projectors.
  • See a summary of the difference between micro, mini and regular HDMI.
  • A RJ45 is a standard type of network (Ethernet) connector and is used for plugging the PC into a wired network. It looks like a R11 connector used for telephones, except it is slightly wider. In my wireless home network, I use the RJ45 network connector to connect my computer to the router. Then another RJ 45 network connector from the router to the modem. There is a coaxial cable connected on the modem to the wall outlet.

A Port Replicator is an external device that provides connections to peripheral devices. For example, you can plug a keyboard, mouse and monitor into a port replicator (instead of plugging into your laptop). This allows you to use your laptop like a desktop. See an example.