|
|
|
|
|
 The CTSI Tech Times
Monthly Updates from Your Business's IT Department
June, 2010 - Vol 2, Issue 6 |
|
|
| Upcoming Area Events |
6/10/10 - "Alice in Wonderland," Lubbock Community Theater, 2pm
6/11/10 - Wolfcreek at the Lubbock Post 2466 VFW, 7pm
6/12/10 - Brass Band Concert in the Park; Wagner City Park, 8pm
6/12/10 - Meadow Country Western Jamboree, 6:30pm
6/12-6/13 - NMJC Foundation Golf Tournament, Hobbs Country Club
6/26/10 - Best Of- New Talent- Showcase, Cactus Theater, 7:30pm
|
| Milestones |
completed 7 years with CTSI.
|
| Symantec Best Practices |
To avoid malicious applications, Symantec recommends these Best Practices:
* Only click through to trusted sources when searching on popular news items
* Never update "media player", "codec", or "Flash" when promoted by site hosting videos or not affiliated with that application
* Do not use Peer to Peer (P2P) on business machines, and be cautious on home machines
* Do not click on links or attachments in email unless it's from a trusted source and you expect to receive it.
|
|
|
| From David's Desk... |
Unified Communications--it's a term you see and hear often in business these days. But what exactly does it mean? In layman's terms, Unified Communications is the integration of "real-time" means of communication (such as instant messaging, presence information, telephone, video conferencing, call control, and speech recognition) with other, "non real-time" communication methods (such as integrated voicemail, e-mail, texting, and fax).
Keep in mind that Unified Communications is not a single tool, but a set of tools that provides a consistent user interface across multiple devices and media types.To put it simply, this technology integrates all the systems that a user might already be using and helps those systems to work together. For example, Unified Communications technology allows a user to easily work with another person on a project even if the other person is in a different location. The user could quickly locate the necessary individual by accessing an interactive directory, engage the other person via text messaging, and escalate the session to a voice call, or even a video call - all within minutes. In another example, an employee might receive a call from a customer who wants answers. Unified Communications could enable the employee to access a real-time list of available expert colleagues. The person who took the initial call could then make a call to the necessary expert. This chain of events would enable the employee to meet the customer's needs more quickly, while also eliminating time-consuming back and forth emailing within the office.
 Unified Communications solutions help companies manage growing communication complexity and an increasing number of mobile workers, whether across the city or across the globe. Employees, business partners, and customers can collaborate with a combination of voice, video, data, and mobility applications. Such technology provides benefit to businesses by helping to streamline information delivery and by providing ease of use. The result is better, faster interaction and service delivery for the customer, and cost savings for the business. Unified Communications also allows for easier, more direct collaboration between co-workers, suppliers, and clients. The diverse feature set of Unified Communications also enables a business to incorporate a plan specifically tailored for its current and future needs.
As is the case with all new and evolving technologies, CTSI will strive to keep you informed of the latest developments and offerings. If you would like to learn more about how Unified Communications has helped our business, feel free to contact me or a member of our Technology Consulting Group, and we will be glad to discuss this with you as part of our continuing effort to be your Trusted Technology Partner.
Until next time,
David D. Baucum
President, CTSI
|
| Working Wirelessly: What you need to know |
Many companies are making the leap to wireless networks in the office for both financial savings in overall equipment and sheer convenience for their employees. They also often provide mobile PCs with wireless capabilities to their employees so that they can be productive anytime anywhere, hence enhancing the company's bottom-line.
In this article, I will explain what WiFi is and how it works. I will also discuss what you need to start working wirelessly as well as what you can expect to gain from doing so. Finally, I'll discuss the precautions you should take when working on the go.
What is WiFi? Learn the lingo
Wireless, or WiFi, technology is another way of connecting your computer to the network using radio frequency and no network cables.
Wireless works similarly to cordless phones; they transmit data from one point to another through radio signals. But wireless technology also requires that you be within the wireless network range area to be able to connect your computer. There are three different types of wireless networks:
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN): WLAN are wireless networks that use radio waves. The backbone network usually uses cables, with one or more wireless access points connecting the wireless users to the wired network. The range of a WLAN can be anywhere from a single room to an entire campus.
Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN): WPANs are short-range networks that use Bluetooth technology. They are commonly used to interconnect compatible devices near a central location, such as a desk. A WPAN has a typical range of about 30 feet.
Wireless Wide Area Networks (WWAN): WWANs are created through the use of mobile phone signals typically provided and maintained by specific mobile phone (cellular) service providers. WWANs can provide a way to stay connected even when away from other forms of network access. Also, be aware that additional charges are often associated with the usage of WWANs in some locations.
How do I get started?
The only thing you really need to go wireless (in addition to a mobile PC) is a wireless PC Card. Depending on the age of your mobile PC, the card is either built-in or needs to be inserted in the PC Card slot and includes an antenna. In addition, you can also use wireless keyboards and mice, which can provide more freedom and flexibility when you're working in your office.
It's always good to research the available hotspots in the area you're planning on visiting (whether a neighborhood in your city you're not familiar with or a city on the other coast).
As you head out in this brave new world of wirelessly connectivity, you can connect to a wireless network (whether at home, at work, or on the go).
Working wirelessly: What's in it for me?
Working wirelessly can offer you the following benefits.
Flexibility: The lack of cables that comes with wireless networking enables you to roam with your mobile PC. You can roam from your office to a nearby conference room for a meeting, or from the couch in the living room to a kitchen for a snack. For example, if you're working wirelessly in a meeting you can printout a report for a co-worker without having to leave the meeting.
Time-saving: If you're waiting for an important response you can use your mobile PC to monitor your e-mail even when you're in meetings or at lunch. As soon as you get the data needed, you can promptly forward it to your customer rather than wondering whether the information has come in while you were away and having to run back to your office between meetings and other commitments.
Increased productivity: Working wirelessly enables you to turn down times between meetings or while in transit into productive time. For example, you may be attending a conference and just found out that one of the sessions you were planning on attending has been cancelled. Rather than waste the next hour, you can check e-mail, start compiling your trip report, or order your son's birthday present.
Easier collaboration: Using wireless mobile PCs, you can easily share files and information with others. For example, you can collaborate on a presentation with colleagues during a flight delay in an airport lounge, or you can share the syllabus of a course with attendees so that they can take more notes digitally during the class.
What should I worry about when working wirelessly?
When working wirelessly from hotspots and public places, you are responsible for ensuring the security of your files and your mobile PC.
To make network access easier for their users, public hotspots typically leave all security turned off. This means that any information you send from a hotspot is most likely unencrypted, and anyone within range of the wireless LAN, whether at a next table or in the parking lot, can access and use your Internet connection, and look at your unprotected information.
WiFi gives you the freedom to go anywhere and still be connected to your office, your family, and other important aspects of your life. Your virtual office can now be an ice cream parlor in a seaside resort. Embrace and enjoy the flexibility that WiFi affords you.
This article was written by Armelle O'Neal.
View full article from Microsoft.
|
|
|
|
|
Tips of the Month
|
Some handy time-saving shortcuts for both beginners and experts:
To insert a row in Microsoft Excel, hit Ctrl + +(the plus sign)
To delete a row in Microsoft Excel, hit Ctrl + - (the minus sign)
Shortcut keys for Windows 7:
- Windows + ↑ (Up Arrow) - Maximize window
- Windows + ← (Left Arrow) - Snap window to left side covering half of desktop space. Continue pressing the keyboard shortcut will rotate the window between snap to left, snap to right and restore to normal position.
- Windows + → (Right Arrow) - Snap window to right side covering half of desktop space. Continue pressing the keyboard shortcut will rotate the window between snap to left, snap to right and restore to normal position.
- Windows + ↓ (Down Arrow) - Minimize the window. Restore to normal size and position if the window is currently maximized.
|
| Staff Spotlight - Kyle Levy |
 Kyle Levy, Systems Specialist for CTSI, provides complete customer solutions. He joined the CTSI team in November 2009.
Kyle grew up in Houston and moved to Lubbock after high school to attend Texas Tech University. He graduated with a degree in Chemistry and a minor in Spanish. After graduation, Kyle worked as an Analytical Chemist for 6 years where he concentrated on trace level analysis. He then transitioned to an IT position in Dallas, working from Help Desk up to Exchange Engineer, accumulating a variety of certifications along the way. Kyle moved back to Lubbock to work in a variety of roles in the family business, Brinks Suzuki. After spending some time in Lubbock, Kyle decided to get back into the IT industry and joined the CTSI team.
Kyle enjoys riding motorcycles, music (he plays the drums and the guitar), and reading (history, science fiction, fantasy).
Kyle has been married to his wife Julie for 11 years. They have two sons, Connor (7) and Wyatt (4). They stay very busy with baseball and Boy Scouts. When they get the chance to travel, they visit family in Houston. The Levy family also has an assortment of rescue pets: a cat named Lucky, and two dogs, Barkley and Riley.
|
| Helen's Recipe of the Month |
Helen Burns, CTSI's Purchasing Manager, has been with the company for the past ten years. In addition to her purchasing duties, Helen serves as our unofficial party coordinator. Helen (with help from our administrative assistant, Nancy Clark) makes sure we celebrate every staff member's birthday as well as various holidays by providing a wide range of delectable treats. Without further ado, from Helen's kitchen to you!
Fresh Peach Cobbler
1 cup flour
2 tsp cinnamon
1 1/3 cup sugar, divided
1 cup milk
1 tbsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 1/2 stick butter, melted
2 1/4 cups sliced fresh peaches
1/4 cup orange juice
½ tsp almond extract
Peel and slice fresh peaches (may use canned peaches, drained well) and combine with 1/3 cup sugar, 1/4 cup orange juice, and almond extract and set aside.
Sift together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and remaining sugar. Stir in melted butter and pour into a medium-sized baking dish (sprayed with Pam.) Pour peach mixture over the batter, and bake at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream, if desired. Serves 4-6.
|
|
|
The CTSI Tech Times
Monthly Updates from Your Business's IT Department
June, 2010 - Vol 2, Issue 6 |
|
|
| Upcoming Area Events |
6/10/10 - "Alice in Wonderland," Lubbock Community Theater, 2pm
6/11/10 - Wolfcreek at the Lubbock Post 2466 VFW, 7pm
6/12/10 - Brass Band Concert in the Park; Wagner City Park, 8pm
6/12/10 - Meadow Country Western Jamboree, 6:30pm
6/12-6/13 - NMJC Foundation Golf Tournament, Hobbs Country Club
6/26/10 - Best Of- New Talent- Showcase, Cactus Theater, 7:30pm
|
| Milestones |
completed 7 years with CTSI.
|
| Symantec Best Practices |
To avoid malicious applications, Symantec recommends these Best Practices:
* Only click through to trusted sources when searching on popular news items
* Never update "media player", "codec", or "Flash" when promoted by site hosting videos or not affiliated with that application
* Do not use Peer to Peer (P2P) on business machines, and be cautious on home machines
* Do not click on links or attachments in email unless it's from a trusted source and you expect to receive it.
|
|
|
| From David's Desk... |
Unified Communications--it's a term you see and hear often in business these days. But what exactly does it mean? In layman's terms, Unified Communications is the integration of "real-time" means of communication (such as instant messaging, presence information, telephone, video conferencing, call control, and speech recognition) with other, "non real-time" communication methods (such as integrated voicemail, e-mail, texting, and fax).
Keep in mind that Unified Communications is not a single tool, but a set of tools that provides a consistent user interface across multiple devices and media types.To put it simply, this technology integrates all the systems that a user might already be using and helps those systems to work together. For example, Unified Communications technology allows a user to easily work with another person on a project even if the other person is in a different location. The user could quickly locate the necessary individual by accessing an interactive directory, engage the other person via text messaging, and escalate the session to a voice call, or even a video call - all within minutes. In another example, an employee might receive a call from a customer who wants answers. Unified Communications could enable the employee to access a real-time list of available expert colleagues. The person who took the initial call could then make a call to the necessary expert. This chain of events would enable the employee to meet the customer's needs more quickly, while also eliminating time-consuming back and forth emailing within the office.
Unified Communications solutions help companies manage growing communication complexity and an increasing number of mobile workers, whether across the city or across the globe. Employees, business partners, and customers can collaborate with a combination of voice, video, data, and mobility applications. Such technology provides benefit to businesses by helping to streamline information delivery and by providing ease of use. The result is better, faster interaction and service delivery for the customer, and cost savings for the business. Unified Communications also allows for easier, more direct collaboration between co-workers, suppliers, and clients. The diverse feature set of Unified Communications also enables a business to incorporate a plan specifically tailored for its current and future needs.
As is the case with all new and evolving technologies, CTSI will strive to keep you informed of the latest developments and offerings. If you would like to learn more about how Unified Communications has helped our business, feel free to contact me or a member of our Technology Consulting Group, and we will be glad to discuss this with you as part of our continuing effort to be your Trusted Technology Partner.
Until next time,
David D. Baucum
President, CTSI
|
| Working Wirelessly: What you need to know |
Many companies are making the leap to wireless networks in the office for both financial savings in overall equipment and sheer convenience for their employees. They also often provide mobile PCs with wireless capabilities to their employees so that they can be productive anytime anywhere, hence enhancing the company's bottom-line.
In this article, I will explain what WiFi is and how it works. I will also discuss what you need to start working wirelessly as well as what you can expect to gain from doing so. Finally, I'll discuss the precautions you should take when working on the go.
What is WiFi? Learn the lingo
Wireless, or WiFi, technology is another way of connecting your computer to the network using radio frequency and no network cables.
Wireless works similarly to cordless phones; they transmit data from one point to another through radio signals. But wireless technology also requires that you be within the wireless network range area to be able to connect your computer. There are three different types of wireless networks:
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN): WLAN are wireless networks that use radio waves. The backbone network usually uses cables, with one or more wireless access points connecting the wireless users to the wired network. The range of a WLAN can be anywhere from a single room to an entire campus.
Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN): WPANs are short-range networks that use Bluetooth technology. They are commonly used to interconnect compatible devices near a central location, such as a desk. A WPAN has a typical range of about 30 feet.
Wireless Wide Area Networks (WWAN): WWANs are created through the use of mobile phone signals typically provided and maintained by specific mobile phone (cellular) service providers. WWANs can provide a way to stay connected even when away from other forms of network access. Also, be aware that additional charges are often associated with the usage of WWANs in some locations.
How do I get started?
The only thing you really need to go wireless (in addition to a mobile PC) is a wireless PC Card. Depending on the age of your mobile PC, the card is either built-in or needs to be inserted in the PC Card slot and includes an antenna. In addition, you can also use wireless keyboards and mice, which can provide more freedom and flexibility when you're working in your office.
It's always good to research the available hotspots in the area you're planning on visiting (whether a neighborhood in your city you're not familiar with or a city on the other coast).
As you head out in this brave new world of wirelessly connectivity, you can connect to a wireless network (whether at home, at work, or on the go).
Working wirelessly: What's in it for me?
Working wirelessly can offer you the following benefits.
Flexibility: The lack of cables that comes with wireless networking enables you to roam with your mobile PC. You can roam from your office to a nearby conference room for a meeting, or from the couch in the living room to a kitchen for a snack. For example, if you're working wirelessly in a meeting you can printout a report for a co-worker without having to leave the meeting.
Time-saving: If you're waiting for an important response you can use your mobile PC to monitor your e-mail even when you're in meetings or at lunch. As soon as you get the data needed, you can promptly forward it to your customer rather than wondering whether the information has come in while you were away and having to run back to your office between meetings and other commitments.
Increased productivity: Working wirelessly enables you to turn down times between meetings or while in transit into productive time. For example, you may be attending a conference and just found out that one of the sessions you were planning on attending has been cancelled. Rather than waste the next hour, you can check e-mail, start compiling your trip report, or order your son's birthday present.
Easier collaboration: Using wireless mobile PCs, you can easily share files and information with others. For example, you can collaborate on a presentation with colleagues during a flight delay in an airport lounge, or you can share the syllabus of a course with attendees so that they can take more notes digitally during the class.
What should I worry about when working wirelessly?
When working wirelessly from hotspots and public places, you are responsible for ensuring the security of your files and your mobile PC.
To make network access easier for their users, public hotspots typically leave all security turned off. This means that any information you send from a hotspot is most likely unencrypted, and anyone within range of the wireless LAN, whether at a next table or in the parking lot, can access and use your Internet connection, and look at your unprotected information.
WiFi gives you the freedom to go anywhere and still be connected to your office, your family, and other important aspects of your life. Your virtual office can now be an ice cream parlor in a seaside resort. Embrace and enjoy the flexibility that WiFi affords you.
This article was written by Armelle O'Neal.
View full article from Microsoft.
|
|
|
|
|
Tips of the Month
|
Some handy time-saving shortcuts for both beginners and experts:
To insert a row in Microsoft Excel, hit Ctrl + +(the plus sign)
To delete a row in Microsoft Excel, hit Ctrl + - (the minus sign)
Shortcut keys for Windows 7:
- Windows + ↑ (Up Arrow) - Maximize window
- Windows + ← (Left Arrow) - Snap window to left side covering half of desktop space. Continue pressing the keyboard shortcut will rotate the window between snap to left, snap to right and restore to normal position.
- Windows + → (Right Arrow) - Snap window to right side covering half of desktop space. Continue pressing the keyboard shortcut will rotate the window between snap to left, snap to right and restore to normal position.
- Windows + ↓ (Down Arrow) - Minimize the window. Restore to normal size and position if the window is currently maximized.
|
| Staff Spotlight - Kyle Levy |
Kyle Levy, Systems Specialist for CTSI, provides complete customer solutions. He joined the CTSI team in November 2009.
Kyle grew up in Houston and moved to Lubbock after high school to attend Texas Tech University. He graduated with a degree in Chemistry and a minor in Spanish. After graduation, Kyle worked as an Analytical Chemist for 6 years where he concentrated on trace level analysis. He then transitioned to an IT position in Dallas, working from Help Desk up to Exchange Engineer, accumulating a variety of certifications along the way. Kyle moved back to Lubbock to work in a variety of roles in the family business, Brinks Suzuki. After spending some time in Lubbock, Kyle decided to get back into the IT industry and joined the CTSI team.
Kyle enjoys riding motorcycles, music (he plays the drums and the guitar), and reading (history, science fiction, fantasy).
Kyle has been married to his wife Julie for 11 years. They have two sons, Connor (7) and Wyatt (4). They stay very busy with baseball and Boy Scouts. When they get the chance to travel, they visit family in Houston. The Levy family also has an assortment of rescue pets: a cat named Lucky, and two dogs, Barkley and Riley.
|
| Helen's Recipe of the Month |
Helen Burns, CTSI's Purchasing Manager, has been with the company for the past ten years. In addition to her purchasing duties, Helen serves as our unofficial party coordinator. Helen (with help from our administrative assistant, Nancy Clark) makes sure we celebrate every staff member's birthday as well as various holidays by providing a wide range of delectable treats. Without further ado, from Helen's kitchen to you!
Fresh Peach Cobbler
1 cup flour
2 tsp cinnamon
1 1/3 cup sugar, divided
1 cup milk
1 tbsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 1/2 stick butter, melted
2 1/4 cups sliced fresh peaches
1/4 cup orange juice
½ tsp almond extract
Peel and slice fresh peaches (may use canned peaches, drained well) and combine with 1/3 cup sugar, 1/4 cup orange juice, and almond extract and set aside.
Sift together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and remaining sugar. Stir in melted butter and pour into a medium-sized baking dish (sprayed with Pam.) Pour peach mixture over the batter, and bake at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream, if desired. Serves 4-6.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|