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Shelby
#0010 My thoughts on Chromebooks
September 22, 2024
Chromebooks are e-Waste out of the box. There I said it.
It’s puzzling why many schools choose them, given that they aren’t widely used in
businesses and don’t prepare students for the professional world. While schools might be
attracted by their low cost, they’re discovering that many Chromebook models have
limited lifespans with actual expiration dates and need to be replaced frequently. This
leads to a significant amount of electronic waste. In response, some schools are
reverting to Windows-based computers.
Chromebooks generally have less powerful
hardware compared to Windows PCs or Macs. They tend to run slowly and offer no upgrade
options—most have their memory and storage soldered onto the main board, making it
impossible to upgrade. When a Chromebook becomes outdated, the only option is to buy a
new one that also has similar limitations.
Another drawback is that Chromebooks only support apps available in the Google Play
Store. You can’t download software from other websites or use physical disks as you can
with other computers. This severly limits your options. Additionally, Chromebooks have
few business applications; if the app you need isn’t available in the store, you’re out
of luck.
Chromebooks are best suited for basic tasks like web browsing, using Google Docs, and
playing simple games that don’t require much processing power. They are essentially very
lightweight computers, often described as being like a computer on training wheels—with
the key difference that you can’t remove the training wheels.
Shelby
#0009 We are now listed on DISCOVER DIXON
September 18, 2024
Recently, in August, we were now listed on the Discover Dixon Website run by the Dixon,
Illinois Chamber of Commerce. They kindly provide free busines listings to all area
businesses to promote commerce in the area. Meyer Computer is NOT a chamber member at
this time but MCC may join in the future.
>>
Webpage - Discover Dixon
Shelby
#0008 My First Look at Self Hosted AI
September 17, 2024
As an experiment, I decided to start messing around with self-hosted AI on
Windows. I don't plan on posting any type of review or instructions here until I
understand it a lot better. I'm just scratching the surface at this point.
Why
would you want to host your own AI? The most common answer is privacy. The content you
create will NOT become of someone elses AI model.
If you attempt to do this
yourself, you will need decent hardware for this project. As I recall the large language
model (LLM) is nearly 4 Gig. An NVIDIA graphics card is pretty much required as this
software will utilize the CUDA cores. AI works best when you have one or more graphics
cards in your system. I’m using an EVGA 3060 TI FTW which provides decent results but
there is somewhat of a lag.
There are 3 main components that you must install.
These include OOLAMA, LLAMA 3.1 and WSL. All three are free downloads. I did the
respective installs and I can confirm that it does work. I was running short on time, so
I haven’t get a chance to use it much. I will say that it works like ChatGPT but
phrasing your requests isn't as polished as ChatGPT. My ultimate goal is to use it
to help rewrite my documentation and portions of this website to make it flow better and
making it easier to read in the process.
Shelby
#0007 Used Computers and Component Parts
September 16, 2024 updated September 23, 2024
Have you ever considered purchasing a used computer? From time to time, MCC
takes in used computers but only if it's determined to be worth the time to be reworked
for resale. I refurbish and upgrade the device to make it usable again. Often this
includes adding memory and/or replacing the drive. All devices will have fresh
installations of Microsoft Windows 10. We can do anything else you may need, such as a
data transfer or software installation. This is a great option if yours looking for an
inexpensive device for paying bills online and other basic tasks.
I also have an assortment of used component parts available. These items were
taken in trade, donated or salvaged parts. Some items are new old stock. This is a great
option for a low cost repair or upgrade.
Items available include: older desktop
computers, memory, harddrives, routers, fans, cables and adapters, monitors, etc. that I
want to sell. Sometimes I get laptops but they go quickly. Equipment is overflowing and
we need the space!
NOTE: Choices, inventory and prices will vary.
Shelby
#0006 Laptops vs. Desktops
September 13, 2024
This article was rewritten from my original 2017 article.
There are advantages and disadvantages of both laptops and desktops.
Laptop Pros Portability!, The 'cool' factor!, laptops have built-in
wireless networking as a standard feature. They can go anywhere.
Laptop Cons More expensive when comparing to a desktop with similar
features, somewhat slower than desktops. Most laptops are not very expandable beyond
memory and drive upgrades. They are harder to service because they must be taken apart
and contain a much larger number of proprietary components.
Desktop Pros Less expensive when comparing to a laptop with similar
features. Typically faster than laptops, most are expandable, very easy to service,
fewer proprietary parts. Many off the shelf components can be used. Custom built
desktops are the easiest of all to service as all components are off the shelf.
Desktop Cons Lack of portability, wireless networking is not always
standard. Sometimes it must be added separately. Desktops tend NOT to be
portable.
Processors Processors are designed for desktops first. There is less
in the way of space constraints and cooling is easier. It takes the chip manufacturer
longer to develop a smaller version to fit a laptop.
Laptop Power Consumption The slower CPU's run on lower voltages which
can lengthen the battery life of the laptop. Faster CPU's consume more power but reduce
battery life. It's a trade off. The speed of the CPU also helps determine the
price.
Whats Included?
Some desktops come with a mouse and keyboard in the box. Others do not. Monitors and
printers are always separate because everyone wants something different.
Summary
Typically you can spend quite a bit more money for a laptop with 60-70% of the speed of
a desktop. Get a laptop if you want portability. Get a desktop if you want
expandability.
Meyer Computer Consulting typically sells both Hewlett Packard Business Desktops and
Business laptops. Other brands are available. The HP business line is designed to be
easier to maintain and have higher parts availability. Custom built computers are also
an option.