Best free apps from Microsoft

When it comes to free software, the open-source community certainly has a monopoly on high-minded posturing and puffy rhetoric. Just take a look at the Philosophy page of the GNU operating system's website:

"Free software is a matter of liberty, not price. To understand the concept, you should think of free as in free speech, not as in free beer. Free software is a matter of the users' freedom to run, copy, distribute, study, change and improve the software. More precisely, it means that the program's users have the four essential freedoms."

But when it comes to free software, those free-loving, free-wheeling open sourcers have an unlikely challenger: Microsoft. Yes, you heard us right, Microsoft: the ice to Fedora's fire; the night to Ubuntu's day.

But as unlikely as it may seem, Redmond actually has a thriving – though largely unsung – library of free applications available to download. And we're not just talking about freeware cobbled together in bedrooms by people who don't get out much.

We're talking well-engineered, high-quality programs written by the same people who created Windows and all the rest. It's stuff we're sure that Microsoft would love to charge for, but with uncharacteristic benevolence, it's chosen to give it away.

The only difficulty is finding the stuff : it's hidden here and there in and around Microsoft's sprawling website. We've played detective and tracked down the best free Microsoft apps.

Our travels through the world of Microsoft freebies started by looking for utilities. Could we find 15 worth including on our list? Half an hour later, with a shortlist of 40, we realised that finding enough wasn't going to be an issue – the real problem would be deciding what to leave out.

Sysinternals produces some of the best Windows tools around. With more than 70 utilities on offer, we could fill our pages with nothing else, but that would make for an unimaginative selection. We picked just two, then, but take a look at the site to see what else is available.

Microsoft's Research Labs, technical blogs and Download Centre also proved fertile, revealing everything from simple utilities to an app that used to sell for £360 but can now be yours for nothing. Sounds like a good deal to us.

1. RichCopy

This handy file transfer tool is multi-threaded, copying several files in parallel for improved performance. Versatile file filters let you customise exactly what is copied, while you can also pause and resume operations, which is useful if your network connection goes down.

Download RichCopy

2. Scalable Fabric

Install Scalable Fabric and any windows you minimise simply shrink to thumbnail size and slide to the side of the desktop. This helps program content to stay more visible, which means that it's easier to pick out the window you need. Restoring windows is as easy as dragging the thumbnail towards the screen centre.

Download Scalable Fabric

3. Debugging Tools for Windows

What's causing your blue-screen crashes? If Windows won't tell you, just install the debugging tools and open the crash dump file. Within a minute or two you'll often get your answer. Browse the Ask the Performance Team blog for more advanced debugging tips.

Download Debugging Tools for Windows

4. Insomnia

It's annoying when your Windows 7 PC goes to sleep while you're downloading a big file, running a backup or doing something else important, but there's an easy solution – just run Insomnia. It'll disable sleep mode for the moment, allowing your tasks to go ahead without interruption. To get back to normal, all you have to do is close the program. Easy.

Download Insomnia

5. Process Monitor

Process Monitor logs all your PC's file and Registry activity, making it easy to identify over-active processes that might be hogging your system's resources. It's also good at diagnosing odd application behaviour in general, and can be handy when you're on a malware-hunting expedition.

Download Process Monitor

6. Virtual PC
Virtual PC makes it easy to run different versions of Windows on your own desktop. It's the central technology behind Windows 7's XP Mode, which allows the new OS to launch old software that would otherwise be unable to run on your updated system.

Download Virtual PC

7. Learning Content Development System

LCDS is a powerful tool for creating what Microsoft call 'e-learning content': Silverlight-based online courses that feature quizzes, games, assessments, animations and other interactive features.

You work with pre-defined forms, so no programming skills are required in order to create good looking, impressive content.

Download LCDS

8. Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer

Let MBSA scan your PC for a couple of minutes and you'll get a detailed report on all of its security holes, including missing system patches, user account or password issues, problematic Internet Explorer and Microsoft Office security settings and a whole lot more.

Download MBSA

9. Process Explorer

A Task Manager on steroids, Process Explorer displays in-depth information on every process your PC is running right now. You can use it to spot big resource hogs, diagnose memory leaks or find out which process has opened a particular file.

It's also handy for pausing badly behaved programs that grab all your CPU time, closing them down safely when all else fails and generally troubleshooting all kinds of other odd Windows behaviour.

Download Process Explorer

10. Truespace

This fully featured 3D authoring package contains everything that you need to build 3D models, add textures and lighting effects, render the models and even create cinema quality animations.



It used to cost around £360, but then Microsoft bought the technology for Virtual Earth and now it's available for free. Pretty impressive, huh?

Download Truespace

11. Expression Encoder 3.0

Expression Encoder is targeted at web developers who want to "publish rich media experiences with Microsoft Silverlight", but in reality this is an excellent tool for anyone who wants to play around with video.

Essentially, it's a grown-up version of Media Encoder: you can import clips, carry out basic cut editing, crop or deinterlace them, add visual or audio overlays and then encode the finished results to WMV files with complete control over all the video settings (bit rate, size, aspect ratio, encoding method and more).



Extras include a powerful screen capture tool that will record whatever's going on in the window or region you specify. There are a few limitations with this free version (no H.264 output, and it's WMV-only), but it's still a capable program in its own right, and one that will never time out. It's well worth a look.

Download Expression Encoder

12. Windows Automated Installation Kit for Windows 7

The Windows Automated Installation Kit (WAIK) is an advanced tool that can create a custom Windows 7 set-up disc with your own settings, device drivers and other tweaks.

If you're looking after several Windows 7 PCs then this can save a great deal of time, as every time you reinstall Windows 7 it'll have the default settings and files you need ready and waiting.

Download Windows Automated Installation Kit

13. Windows SteadyState

Are your kids always breaking the PC? Then you may need Windows SteadyState. With this clever tool you first take a snapshot of a PC the way you'd like it. Then, no matter what any users happen to do – delete something important, install malware, or just poke around in the Control Panel – any changes will be reversed on rebooting, and everything will be back to the way it should be. This app works with XP and Vista.

Download Windows SteadyState

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BenQ G920WL

A 19" LED backlit monitor that will suit designers and gamers alike

When it first tipped up three years ago, LED backlighting was the must have technology for folk using their PCs and monitors for anything that needed accurate colour reproduction.

As with any new tech though it came with the expected price premium and it's taken a while for it to trickle down to a price that us normal folk can afford. Now though BenQ has released a wee fella called the G920WL for under a ton that can do the job for you.

At less that £100 it's what you'd normally expect to pay for a diminutive 19" monitor, but with the LED backlighting tech in tow that's a nice added extra to have on your specs sheet.

With this pricing even if you're just an amateur photographer or designer you've now got the chance to cadge a display that you can trust to give you a proper representation of your chosen images.

It's a sharp, clear panel, with a thoroughly impressive viewing angle and great black representation. If you're into your poorly-lit, survival horror then this is a great display for you, allowing you to see far more detail in the dark than a standard LCD.

The limited 1440x900 native resolution which can feel cramped on-screen, especially if you want to work with multiple windows open at once - but at this price you can afford to think of it as a second monitor that you use for image manipulation or the darkest gaming.

The G920WL then is a bargain backlit beauty, perfect for the amateur photographer/designer and one who's also a closet gamer.

www.techradar.com

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Best Dual Core

Intel's latest processors are dual core CPU with a system equipped with integrated graphics and memory controller. Is Intel managed to keep his promise that the Clarkdale can compete with quad-core CPU? Let's look at these early test results.

Intel comes back with new innovations. This time, the processor Clarkdale. This processor is still using the base as Lynnfield Nehalem. However, Clarkdale plans will be offered at affordable prices. In short, this is the processor that will be the successor generation of Core 2 in middle-class to lower prices. In this article, CHIP Clarkdale test two processors: Core I5 661 (3.33 GHz) and Core I3 540 (3.06 GHz).

The fundamental difference of the two processors are located in turbo boost. I5 Core series has a turbo 6 was boosted, while the Core I3 was not possess. Both processors are equipped with hyper-threading. This makes her look like a quad-core processor in the Windows Task Manager.

As has been previously disclosed, Clarkdale has integrated graphics system. VGA is guaranteed to have a higher capacity than the G45. Although the processor fabrication Clarkdale using 32 nm, the VGA is still using a 45 nm fabrication.
The existence of the integrated VGA make Clarkdale require special motherboards to take advantage of graphics systems. For that, Intel chipset provides H55/H57. With an HDMI port available you can directly obtain the data stream digital video and sound directly from the processor.

Because of Clarkdale is still using the socket 1156, the processor automatically tested CHIP can also be used on the P55 board. However, you will not be able to take advantage of graphics systems. 

Chip.co.id

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Limiting Hard Disk Capacity

Available hard disk space is where the easy out. Various types of files and folders are likely to continue growing each time, plus the tendency of the file size growing.

In order to save money, you can use quotas feature of Windows. Basically, this feature works to give hard-disk space quota for each user. To use it, the partition must use the NTFS file system. After that, you can right-click the drive you want to set its quota. Then select the tab "Quota". Check "Enable Quota Management" to activate it. Then check also "Deny disk space to users exceeding quota limit".

Click the "Quota Entries" to regulate how much quota for each user. How, from this window, simply click the name of the user who wants to be given quotas. Then adjust the desired large quotas. For example, here is set quota of 100MB for the guest account with 80MB warning level. That is, if the guest user account to use more than 100MB space, then the window will pop up a warning that disk space is not enough anymore.

Another advantage of the quota, the label that shows the amount of hard disk space available will change depending on the user's quota. Back to the example above, if the guest user account is open My Computer, then the amount of disk space on the screen is only 100MB. So, as if his hard disk capacity is only 100MB, though it did not for it.

The use of quotas would be very helpful, especially for PCs that are used together. With the division of quotas, there is no longer expected to fight hard disk space quota, which in turn facilitate the administration of the system.

Pc Plus

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ViewSonic VX2233wm

ViewSonic VX2233wm 22 "(wide view 21.5") 16:9 wide screen provides an elegant style and affordable and full HD 1080p performance on your desktop. Automatic aspect ratio setting ensures that the image in full screen without distortion. Connect your game consoles, DVD players and more through the DVI input (with HDCP) or VGA. High brightness and fast video response provides a brilliant image and blur-free, and ultra-high contrast ratio 18.000:1 detail and definition gives a great, especially for the dark picture. This multimedia monitor provides a hidden stereo speakers. Eco-mode saves up to 40% of energy use and extend lamp life. Policies supported by the strongest pixel performance and 3-year warranty, you'll enjoy peace of mind on your investment. VX2233wm is ideal for student, home user / small office, gamers and business people.




Widescreen aspect ratio with a resolution of 1920 x 1080
Widescreen aspect ratio allows you to view HD content in its original format with no deflection or distortion.

Dynamic Contrast Ratio 18000:1
Black level gives a darker and performance in front of the screen better overall.

Video response time 5ms ClearMotiv ®
Fast video response enables broadcast quality video with HD

Input OptiSync ® digital / analog expand your connectivity
Multi-mode input technology supports digital signals (DVI) and analog (VGA) for best compatibility and configuration flexibility.

ECO mode
Eco-friendly fashion environment and reduce power consumption extends the backlight

Aspect ratio settings
Eliminate image distortion by maintaining correct image proportions for both widescreen and native 4:3 content.

Design a stylish slim frame with a layer of glossy piano black.
Thin bezel lets you see more without taking up valuable desktop space. Floating head design accents add visual experience.


Specification:

LCD Panel Type 21.5 "Wide Color TFT Active Matrix LCD with 16:9 aspect ratio Display Area 21.5 inch True Resolution 1920x1080 Contrast Ratio 1000:1 (typ), 18000:1 (max) Brightness 300 cd/m2 (typ) Angle 170° (H), 160° (V) (CR≥10) Response Time 5ms Panel Surface Anti-glare, With coatingkeras Light Source 50.000 hours (typ.) Signal Input Analog RGB Analog (75 ohms, 0.7 / 1.0 Vp-p) Frekuensi Fh: 24~82KHz; Fv: 50~75Hz Sync Separate Sync Compatibility PC VGA to 1920 x 1080 Non Interlaced Power Mac, up to 1920 x 1080 Mac Connector Analog 15 pin mini D-sub Digital DVI-D Power Built-in power Adapter, 3-Pin plug Audio Speakers 2 x 2 watt Power Voltase AC 100-240V (Universal); 50/60Hz(Switch) Consumption 45 (typ.) / 51 (max.) Control OSD Bottom [1], [2], Power, Down, Up Auto image adjust, Contrast / Brightness, Input select (D-SUB, DVI), Audio adjust (volume, mute), Color adjust (sRGB, 9300K, 7500K, 6500K, 5000K, user color [R, G, B]), Information, Manual image adjust (H / V Position, Horizontal size, Fine tune, Sharpness, Dynamic contrast, Aspect ratio, Eco mode), setup menu (select Language, Resolution notice, OSD position, OSD time out, OSD background) Memory Recall Operating Conditions Temperature Humidity 32 ° F - 104 ° F (0 ° C - 40 ° C) 20 to 90% (Non condensed) Dimension Physical 512mm(W) x 388mm(H) x 217mm(D) weight Net 4.2 Kgs Regulasi UL, CUL, FCC-B (ICES), CB, CE, CES-003B, ISO13406-2, GS, ERGO, NOM, GOST-R, HYGIENIC (20 copies), Energy Star®, CCC, BSMI, PSB, C-TICK, MIC(KCC), SASO, WEEE, RoHS, VCCI , SASO, Ukraine, EPEAT Silver Manajemen Power Meet the standards of ENERGY STAR ® Note: 1) Specifications are subject to change without pemberitahuan.sebelumnya. 2) equipment installer in VESA ® wall sold separately 3) DVI Optional

Galva
Viewsonic

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First motherboard with USB-IF Certification

Being the first always feels good, too proud. And this must be felt by the motherboard Gigabyte GA-P55A-UD3 it. Motherboard USB 3.0 is the first motherboard in the world to receive the USB-IF certification.

GA-P55A-UD3 obtain certification after graduation test ketaaatn and strict product quality by the USB-IF (Universal Serial Bus-Implementers Forum). This motherboard also became the first motherboard in the world to show off SuperSpeed USB logo.

The presence of SuperSpeed USB logo provides assurance that the products concerned are able interoperability with products existing USB 2.0 and also provides increased speed and power efficiency offered by USB 3.0. Logo is also giving assurance that the product is easy to use, just like the USB products.

Please visit the GIGABYTE website to see the full specifications of this motherboard and also to find another line that was in the certification stage.

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World's Leading Expert in LED Monitors

BenQ – the world's leading LED monitor brand – invites you to witness the splendid beauty of this world with its all new LED monitors. The BenQ LED monitors are built with revolutionary LED backlight technology to offer only the best picture quality for your personal visual enjoyment. With a full lineup of the BenQ LED monitors to complement your personal lifestyle, things are certainly lookin' great!

BenQ LED Monitors Slim and Energy-Efficient with Brighter Picture Performance

Stylish and Slim Design that Fits You Perfectly

Built with the latest LED backlight technology to create an ultra-slim, elegant shape, the BenQ LED monitors add modern sophistication to your living space.

Ultra High Dynamic Contrast for Depth and Definition

The BenQ LED monitors come with an ultra-high dynamic contrast ratio of 5,000,000:1 to add color depth and definition to darkened and complex visuals, so that everything you see – from the brightest white to the darkest black – is perfectly rendered to deliver the most incredible picture performance.

Splendid Color Presentation in Every Little Detail

With the help of LED backlight technology and its capability to promptly address the lighting changes, every image detail is perfectly rendered with optimized color and brightness performance without light leakage even in darkened scenes. This is especially true for the black and yellow color gamut.

Performance-Steady Right at Start

The BenQ LED monitors are backlit by performance-steady LEDs to give you the most stable brightness and flicker-free settings. Their instant-on capability boosts operational efficiency, keeping everything is picture-ready from the moment you turn on your screen.

Energy Efficient and Money Saving

With global warming worsening, it's even more important to cut down CO2 emissions! The BenQ LED monitors can reduce power consumption by 36% in comparison to traditional monitors, saving you energy as well as money.

Mercury-Free for Extended Use and Waste Reduction

LED panels are mercury-free – which means they won't pollute the water during manufacturing or recycling process. Since LEDs are known for their durability, this monitor is practically maintenance-free.

BenQ Senseye® Human Vision Technology With 6 Proprietary Techniques to Calibrate a Perfect Picture.

Thanks to Senseye® Technology and its six proprietary calibration techniques, the BenQ LED monitors now display the truest colors via the five pre-set modes – Standard, Movie, Game, Photo, sRGB. You can get the best viewing quality fitting to your everyday needs. What's more, addition of Eco Mode helps to save on your total power consumption.

Comfortable Clear Brightness is carefully calibrated for optimal viewing Well-enhanced sharpness defines edges and adds detail

Detailed Clean Dynamically adjusted contrast and backlighting add depth and dimension Noise reduction eliminates visual noise around borders

Brilliant Balanced Independent color management purifies every hue BenQ's proprietary algorithm optimizes the perfect picture quality

A Clearer View of a Cleaner World BenQ V2200/V2400 Eco LED Monitor

Built with an LED backlight panel to create the 2.1cm slim and elegant shape, the BenQ V2200/V2400 Eco unveils the natural beauty of this world with revolutionary Full HD 1080p 16:9 picture quality and honors it with its eco-friendly design – from its pristine white shell free of coating chemicals to the multi-function round holder placed into its signature asymmetrical base stand to serve as a handy spot for small keepsakes or mini plant pot. So go ahead and enjoy the crisp clear view with the BenQ V2200/V2400 Eco LED monitor! A cleaner, greener world is just around the corner!

A Clearer View

2.1cm Ultra Slim Elegance The V2200/V2400 Eco comes in a 2.1cm ultra-slim design that's 14.6% lighter than its original weight. Although coating-free, this monitor is dressed in a beautifully textured cover to keep your living space simple yet beautiful.

Outstanding LED Color Presentation BenQ LED monitors evenly distribute brightness to render the most splendid colors for your personal enjoyment.

Full HD 1080p Ultra-High Resolution Enjoy cinema-class image quality with ultra-high Full HD 1080p resolution (1920x1080), you can see each image in its full magnificent detail, making your viewing experience even more absorbing.

5,000,000:1 Ultra-High Dynamic Contrast Ratio BenQ brings picture performance to a new height, defining and refining every little detail with an ultra-high 5,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio.

Senseye® Technology The BenQ Senseye® Technology brings truly splendid colors to your eyes through its six proprietary designed calibration techniques and displays them via its 6 pre-set modes – Standard, Movie, Game, Photo, sRGB, and Eco – with the Eco Mode especially designed to save power and money.

16:9 Visual Perfection A 16:9 picture gives you true-to-life HD images that match 100% dot-to-dot your content.

HDMI 1.3 Multimedia Entertainment With the newest version of multiple multimedia interface cable – HDMI 1.3, you get to enjoy a whole lot of multimedia fun at a much higher, smoother data transfer speed and with a much better picture quality.

A Cleaner World

Save Energy and Money

‧Energy-efficient LED panels are used to reduce power consumption by 36%*. ‧With the Eco Mode on, another 30% of energy can be saved. *In comparison to the last generation model – E2400HD

Save the Forest with Green Packing

‧Recycled paper is used for 80% of packing to save trees.  ‧With LED panels, monitors are made thinner to reduce packing materials and increase cargo room by 56%*. *In comparison to the last generation model – E2400HD

Protect Water Resources

‧Mercury-free LED panels are used to make the monitors, so water resources can be kept clean and pure.

Reduce Waste Impact on Earth

‧The monitors are made coating-free and 100% recyclable. ‧28% of the monitor frame is made of recycled plastics to save Earth's resources. ‧Soybean ink is used for all printing to improve the recyclability of the printed materials produced, saving 70% on ink usage.

http://www.benq.co.id

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