Gadgets Blog » Dell

While rival company Apple may have beat Microsoft to the initial launch, the computing giant of the ’90s has plans to strike back in a market where they have been hurting: personal electronics. The iPad, hailed as a computing revolution by bringing portable touchscreen technology to a new development point, has been the target of a serious amount of flack from hardcore computer users.

Specifically, Apple’s imposed limitations on the abilities of the iPad have made many customers frustrated, with the lack of third party applications and no way for the device to multitask programs. Combined with recent misgivings about the Apple iPhone 4, the proverbial iron seems hot for Microsoft to strike. In today’s news story, the giant did just that, announcing a line of tablet PCs with the potential to cut into Apple’s market share.

While the iPad was the media darling of the technology world long before its actual release, consumers have perhaps been less willing to jump on board the Apple bandwagon than the company might have hoped. The iPad, for all its flaws, is certainly a unique gadget with the capability to really shake up the computing industry.

At the same time, it also presents consumers with a bit of a quandary: what are we supposed to do with something that walks and talks like an iPhone, but can’t make phone calls? Add in complaints regarding the tablet’s inability to multitask and the scenario seems ripe for competitors to step in.

On that note, Dell officially unveiled what could be a legitimate contender in not only the tablet market, but also the realm of smartphones. Unveiled yesterday and dubbed the “Streak,” Dell’s tablet is noticeably smaller than the iPad, and boasts several features that could make it an attractive alternative.

With their highly-recognizable marketing jingle, computer manufacturer Intel has remained one of the most important companies in the realm of computing for over a decade. Intel processors are integral parts in all sorts of electronic gadgets, but their place in the market isn’t always the sexiest. By manufacturing the processors, Intel provides the beating heart for electronics; the other companies can then take that heart and transplant it into their new line of computers.

Nonetheless, when Intel introduces a new line of CPUs, it’s worth taking note. Their recent creations, the Intel Core i3, Core i5, and Core i7 represent not only a new naming scheme for Intel processors, but an indication of Intel re-tooling their distribution method. While previous Intel processors bore names detailing their specifications, the numbers in the Core i-series are nothing more than place-holders for computing power. The i3 is the entry-level chipset, the i5 a solid mid-range unit, and the i7 an upper-end powerhouse. Each chipset comes in several variations that are tailored to a specific type of gadget: the dual-core i3 Clarkdale is intended for mobile phones, while the six-core i7 Gulftown chipset functions in powerful desktop machines.

Today we’re looking at some great gadgets available at some great prices, which should be a great asset to anyone feeling the post-Holiday crunch. This time of year can be excellent for a smart shopper, as there are plenty of deals to go around. Companies are trying to clear off their shelves for new products, but here at Smarter we have some great items and even better deals.

Great Deals on Game Controllers!
For an avid video gamer, the controller can make all the difference. For the major consoles, there can be a bit of a decision to make, as Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft all have their own official controllers available, whereas third party developers oftentimes have units for significantly less. Alternative game controllers oftentimes boast features that can give huge boosts to the gaming experience. If you’re a PC or Playstation 3 racing fanatic, the Logitech G 25 Force Feedback Wheel provides one of the most realistic driving experiences available at a reasonable price for such a high-end steering wheel. Other great deals include the Thrustmaster Wireless Pad for the Playstation 3. It features a more naturally contoured fit to the hand that is very similar to the Xbox 360 controller. Also, the rubber grips function great during marathon gaming sessions and are a great cure for sweaty palms. If you prefer to stick with brand-name controllers, Nintendo offers a “Classic Controller” for the Wii that has the same shape and button scheme as the classic Super Nintendo controllers, which can be great for games where the Wii Numchuck isn’t a good fit for game play.

Great Deals on Dell Computer Hardware!
One great advantage of owning a PC desktop is the ease with which the hardware components can be upgraded. Instead of throwing down close to $1000 for a brand new machine, it’s straightforward to purchase and install new parts, such as video cards, sound cards, and memory. This extends the longevity of the computer, without the need for an entirely new model. Here at Smarter, we have some great deals right now on Dell hardware, which means it could be the perfect time to upgrade your machine. A Dell memory module is a great way to boost the RAM, giving increased computer speed and performance, while a Dell heatsink and fan can ensure the performance of your CPU, especially important if you opt to overclock your machine. If you’re in the market for a new PC, I strongly recommend looking into available upgrades first! You can save a lot of money by choosing to upgrade your current desktop instead of replacing it.