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- 06/05/2008: "We Have Moved"
- 09/04/2008: Malaysia - Something for everyone: by John Foster
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Archive for April 2007
Cheap New Laptop Discover The Hidden Secrets Of Buying A Cheap New Laptop - Guaranteed: By Steve McArthur
30/04/2007 by admin.
Should I buy a cheap laptop or a cheap desktop? When planning to buy a cheap laptop computer, you need to consider factors that go well beyond performance and memory. Buy a cheap laptop with older technology Rapid advance in technology makes it meaningless to buy the latest technology at a high price.
When cheap laptop computers were first made available in the market, everyone was jumping on ahead to get themselves one. But the average user can find themselves cheap laptop computers that provide all that they need in power, connectivity, and then some. But for the average user, you can find cheap laptop computers that provide all the power you need and then some.
Scan through gaming forums and local gaming community if you do not already have friends who like to play computer games, then scanning through gaming forums on the internet is another way to get good and cheap deals for used laptop. Now here is the key to finding the right cheap computer laptop for you, and that is to figure out exactly what you need it for. The key to finding the right model for you is to figure out exactly what you need it for.
However if you do not require the portability of a laptop, play a lot of 3D games, graphic intensive applications, if you care about upgradeability to prolong the lifespan of your investment, then desktop pc is a smarter choice for you. Furthermore with a desktop pc, you can always upgrade to a bigger and better screen whereas for laptop you are stuck with the same screen display for the whole lifespan of the laptop. An Acer laptop with touchpadAs personal computers, laptops are capable of the same tasks as a desktop PC, although they are typically less powerful for the same price.
For the teachers and professors, using cheap laptop computers as one of the medium of teaching will give more realistic views about the things that they are teaching.
Keyboard: Laptop keyboards are quite different from the keyboards we use with the desktop computers. By the end of the 1980s, laptop computers were becoming popular among business people.
As you get to know more of what you are talking about, you must decide which features are the most important to you in a laptop. Another invention that is revolutionizing laptop batteries are the new external batteries that offer a run-time of about seven hours (also depends on the programs being used on the laptop) at about half the price. Alkaline batteries are the cheapest among batteries, but incur the highest cost per cycle.
You may now get a laptop for below $400. The modern UK market is going quite fast in terms of Laptop markets. The online purchase of laptops is always suggested as that ways you are able to find the best buy with thorough research completely online.
So whether you should buy a cheap laptop or a cheap desktop, ask yourself what are your needs?
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Focus on Physical Computer Crime - Not Just Cyber Crime: By Digby Farquart
30/04/2007 by admin.
It isn’t just computers but the integral components that thieves will focus upon. Computer crime is on of the UK’s fastest growing crimes, according to the Association of British Insurers; in 1995 a third of all commercial claims were computer crime related. It isn’t just the loss of a computer or related equipment that represents the biggest loss; it is the costs of business interruption and important or sensitive data loss.
There is a simple solution; prevent thieves from having access!
When budgeting for IT security we need to ensure the expenditure is appropriate to the value of the IT assets at risk, not just the replacement value but also other losses incurred.
A simple risk analysis can be deployed by calculating the harm to your business as a result of theft or damage to such assets. Create a ‘what if’ scenario and ensure you calculate every aspect from loss of business, interruption to services and compensation to clients including farming out work or bringing in other contractors for damage limitation.
Then take this figure and consider the real likelihood of it happening; taking on board prevailing threats and current climate.
This information shouldn’t be taken lightly and should be used to build an IT Security Policy Document. So in the event of such an incident, there is a chain of command from top managers down the ranks, a contact list of 24 hour telephone numbers and individual responsibilities so that there is no room for ‘I thought he was doing that!’ Each individual on the IT Security Policy Team should have his or her own copy and a signed as read and understood copy filed.
There should be a list of suppliers and back up systems including all identification markings and asset control numbers. This can only be achieved through formal training.
This could be a good time to call in your local CPO (Crime Prevention Officer).
Commercial premises that maintain large numbers of computers clearly face a disproportionate risk from crime. If IT equipment is spread out or scattered throughout the premises, it is more difficult to establish a secure perimeter, than if the ‘IT’ area was concentrated in secure pockets.
Let’s take a look at the physical security of the actual building.
No matter how good the locks are on Entry/Exit Doors, if the door and frame cannot withstand a violent attack, your premises are vulnerable.
Often Health & Safety and security don’t mix, for example; Regulations state that when the building is occupied, fire exit doors must be able to be opened quickly in the direction of escape without the use of keys. A perfect escape rout for thieves too!
· Fire exit doors must not be overlooked. Regulations state that when the building is occupied, these doors must be able to be opened quickly in the direction of escape without the use of keys. Look at alarming these doors so they comply with regulations but notify the appropriate individuals that access has been made. Perhaps CCTV cameras could be fitted too. When the premises are empty, however, these doors can be secured like any other.
· If you occupy offices of multiple tenancies then the landlord and appropriate tenants should address the security of communal doors No one benefits if this area is deemed the responsibility of the other. · Look out windows, check either side for potential access points, and look for flat roofs. Internal grilles should be considered for all accessible windows, don’t overlook skylights.
· If there is no reason for goods lifts to be used after working hours they should be disabled at the end of the day. Perhaps taking them to the top and switching them off.
· Talk to your Crime Prevention Officer about installing an intruder alarm system linked to a central monitoring station. This should be fitted in accordance with Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) policy and Association of British Insurers (ABI) guidelines.
· Be mindful that nominated key holders must be able to get to the building within 20 minutes of being notified of alarm activation. This allows police to check the premise if a forced entry is not apparent. Consider using a reputable key-holding company if you cannot meet this requirement.
· Keep the number of people able to arm and disarm the alarm system to an absolute minimum and make sure that they are issued with individual ‘pin’ numbers that can be monitored and their activity is logged. This will facilitate better management of the system and minimise in-house mischief or activity from disgruntled ex-employees.
· If employees work during periods of reduced occupation, for example, overnight or weekends then personal attack buttons will need to be incorporated into the alarm system. In these circumstances, staff should never work alone always insure there is more than one person on the premises in order that someone can raise an alarm.
· Consider revising name signs that might advertise the presence of computers and never leave computer related boxes in public view. Empty or otherwise, these cartons inform all passers-by that you have new IT equipment on the premises..
Thieves rarely rely on guesswork when selecting a commercial building to break into. This isn’t about ‘walk-in’ crime. Companies have had new computers stolen the very same day as they have been delivered, it not not pure coincidence or extreme bad luck! It is obvious that intelligence is gained before the event inside information or poor security measures. It cannot be over-stressed how important it is to control access during office hours as well as when closed.
If possible, restrict access to the building to one entrance/exit, with all other access points being controlled.
Is your front of house staff, whether it be security or receptionist, fully aware of staff that have left - voluntary or otherwise? All personnel should be identifiable. This begins at the reception point where a visitor should be registered and supervised by an authorised member of staff. It extends to the active vigilance of employees - fully aware of the defined procedure for challenging strangers.
If visitors sign in or are issued with security tags, does anyone check to see that they actually leave the premises? Is anyone tasked with an end of the day procedure for checking the building to ensure that no one is hiding in it?
We mentioned at the beginning about creating a perimeter for access control. If that perimeter is breached, look at the measures below will help to reduce your losses.
· House your IT equipment carefully, away from the perimeter and behind obstacles that slow and frustrate the intruder, in locked rooms for example.
· Mark property with your full postcode in a permanent and prominent way. Heat branding or chemical etching can do this.
· Anchor equipment to solid furniture and building fixtures with an enclosure unit designed to resist dismantling. Choose a product that has been certified to Loss Prevention Standard 1214.
· If an enclosure unit is not in use, special security screws are available that replace the standard back cover screws and help, to some extent, to prevent quick entry to the computer’s interior.
· Safes and security cabinets can be obtained which allow the computers to be used during the day and locked away at night.
· Smoke generating devices, activated by the intruder alarm system, work to create conditions where intruder penetration is severely hampered.
· Computer alarms that detect tampering can be fitted to units. These are suitable for buildings either during office hours or when an on-site response can be generated at night.
· Lap-top computers need to be locked away when they are not being used. Security instructions should be issued to personnel for care of equipment when used away from the office.
· Key security - keys to security devices should be kept in the custody of authorised personnel only and either removed from the premises when they are left unattended or put in a locked safe.
· Asset control - make sure that an up-to-date inventory is in existence so that full details of any equipment that is stolen can be given to the police and insurance companies.
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Digby Farquart is a leading UK security consultant and crime prevention advisor. He writes articles for top sites such as Computer Crime Prevention and UK Crime Prevention.
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Expert Witnesses in Computer Crimes: By James Walsh
30/04/2007 by admin.
Sounds like tall talk? On the contrary, the role of computers in crime can not be undermined in any way. For those who still labour under the impression that computer related crimes refer to a far-fetched specialized matter affecting only a remote community of geeks – the truth can not be harsher. Almost all crimes reported in the UK , from theft, murder, rape, robbery to corporate horrors where an entire banking chain or some other form of public service (including governmental security issues) may be endangered – computers are being misused everywhere. The cases of hacking company or government (specially in the areas of security and finance) records, hate mails, blackmail using photographs or malicious information, child pornography are snowballing the courts across nation. February 2007 saw another important eye opener for the less informed – Jim Gamble, Head, Child Exploitation and Online protection Centre (Home Office) admitted that the government resources were inadequate to deal with the downpour of paedophile leads submitted to their department.
What the Law Says
Till date, a stunningly small number of areas in UK’s legal texts explicitly define the role of computers in criminal acts.
- The Computer Misuse Act – Discusses the probable misuses of computers for illegal purposes, with emphasis on unauthorized access to and modification of information.
- Data Protection Act – This Act addresses the processing, storage, display and transmission of personal data and its illegal manipulations using networks.
- Terrorism Act – This Act covers interference to electronic systems by terrorists and other individuals posing a threat to security of life and property.
- Police and Criminal Evidence (PACE) and Regulation of Investigatory Power Acts (RIPA) – these cover situations evidence is to be largely obtained from uses of computers, also noting the specifications of presenting evidence to a court of law.
- Apart from these, the Good Practice Guide prepared by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) details the correct handling, storage, and analysis of computer-derived evidence so that it may be acceptable in a court.
Needless to say, this is just not enough in the face of the immense possibilities that computer-related crime has.
Need for Expert Witnesses
In a situation where the outcome of the case is dependant on its effective presentation, the role of the witness is obviously vital. Choosing the wrong witness can have disastrous results in computer-related crimes, as the court is more prone to be misdirected than other crimes. A quack will endanger more than he can grasp, especially in corporate cases, where the entire effect of the crime may not always be manifest at the beginning.
Fields Associates – the Difference An Expert Witness Can Make
In the relatively young field of computer forensics, Fields Associate has the advantages of a veteran firm, having been around since 1997. Specializing in the area of recovery of digital ‘fingerprints’ (evidence) left by the routine use of computers, this company deals with all kinds of cases ranging from data theft to child pornography. Interestingly, a solid 86% of their cases come through recommendations, making it a strongly symbiotic existence. In other words, since they depend so heavily on the quality of their work, their performance level and reliability would be of key concern, and is strictly maintained by the firm. Their areas of work, if summarized, would be:
- Forensic Computer Examination - a team of specialists procure forensic evidence through the most secure methods of examination. This is done keeping in mind that the data procured might have to be produced before a court of law, and therefore should be in their original, non tampered version so that they are acceptable.
- Providing Expert Testimony - When it comes to the testimonial itself, there is tremendous performance pressure on the witness, since the fate of those involved depends on him. Naturally, a total understanding of information and network security measures, prevention and detection of intrusions, and digital forensic analysis is a necessity in these cases. The experts at Fields Associates have the extra edge of experience apart from the given qualifications required of a specialist.
- Proper Reportage and Court Presentation - This is perhaps the most crucial issue in computer related crimes. A jury would be lost if the witness spewed out a torrent of incomprehensible jargon, and despite his learning, the case would be lost. Since Fields Associates is also into conducting courses in related areas, they already know the danger that unclarity can pose. Therefore, accurate but comprehensible presentation of the matter – whether as an oral case before the jury or as a written document – is given utmost importance.
- Presentation of graphics – A similar emphasis on clarity and correct presentation of facts is laid on any graphics prepared for court presentation.
The need of the day is enlightenment, followed by right choice. The law can no more afford to remain ignorant about the importance of computers in crime, and those affected must realize that they depend entirely on who they choose to help them out.
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James Walsh is a freelance writer and copy editor. For more information on digital forensic investigations see http://www.fieldsassociates.co.uk/computer-forensics.html
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Cherish The Gifting Process - You Have An Opportunity To Touch A Life: By Amber Dulce
28/04/2007 by admin.
:arrow: Gifts are an essential element of our lives. They serve multiple roles as per occasion. While a Christmas gift is an attempt to rejoice in the glory of Christ, a birthday gift is a tool to celebrate a particular person in our life. While a gift given to a loved one on a rainy night is a referendum on the love that both of you share.
Gift selection is undoubtedly a job easier said than done. How many hours of our life have we spent purchasing a gift? I am sure the hours turn into days and months actually…
One of the main advantages of the net has been in the arena of gift shopping. Now you do not need to do a cross country to find the perfect gift, you can find it with the click of a mouse from the comforts of your living room.
And to add to this fact is the advent of Cashback portals. These portals pay you a certain percentage of the purchase amount as a commission for using them. Cash back site is a place where you can buy online gifts, compare online gifts and to be very honest if any gift is present in UK you would find it on a Cashback site. The concept of Cashback has revolutionized shopping in the UK.
On the high street you would never find the opportunity to compare gifts on a wholesale basis, while comparing online gifts in UK is so easy… And again buying gifts on the high street is an experience less remembered and on a Cashback site… Voila…. Buying online gifts is easier than slicing a cake of butter.
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Online Shopping Compare site and compare online gifts&enjoy the rewards. Cashback, Ambience, Variety - You name it, you have it.
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Funny Gifts: To Give or Not to Give: By Mary Mailler
28/04/2007 by admin.
:arrow: When deciding whether or not to send someone a funny gift, consider the following two things in order to avoid potentially embarrassing your receiver. First and most importantly, consider your relationship with the recipient in judging the appropriateness of your humor. A secretary, for example, should not give her married boss a suggestive gift on the occasion of his retirement, and likewise, a boss should not give his secretary such a gift in recognition of her tenth anniversary with the firm. Second, consider the occasion, and err on the side of conservatism whenever doubt exists as to whether or not it calls for humor. It is never appropriate, for example, to give a gag gift to a bride or groom on their wedding day, nor is ever acceptable to send a card or gift that makes fun of something personal such as a person’s appearance, health or age.
Unless you are absolutely positive of the recipient’s sense of humor, it is better, as a rule, not to send gifts that are humorous if there’s a chance they might offend. If you simply cannot resist the temptation to yuk it up at your friend’s expense, practice at least some degree of restraint in choosing the gift by keeping a few common-sense rules of etiquette in mind. Always consider carefully your receiver’s audience at the time your gift is revealed. Will there be children present at the party? Will someone’s wife be offended by what your gift implies? Ask yourself if a loved one’s feelings might be hurt when they open up a gift that makes fun of their personality, their physical appearance or their age?
Even if your recipient seems to possess a great sense of humor when he or she is alone with you, that does not indicate a “green light” for you to give a funny gift that teases. Always remember that there are people out there who enjoy dishing it out and playing their jokes upon others, but when the tables are turned, they cannot take your ribbing no matter how harmless it may seem to be. It is in this way that some people are more selective than others in maintaining a sense of humor. If this is the case with your friend, you are a better off in taking the highroad than in choosing a gift that may cause his haunches to rise. Remember too that what you and your friend once shared as a private joke between you many years ago, may not seem so funny to him now. Understand and accept that with maturity, a person’s perception as to what is funny and what is not may change with time.
So think twice before you decide to send or give a funny gift, and always remember that a gift is more than just a gift, it is an affirmation of the relationship that you share with your recipient right now. If you do decide to send a funny gift, be sure that it is one that will not only make the recipient laugh, but that his guests will laugh as well. An appropriately funny gift should also turn out, somehow, to be useful later on, after the occasion has past.
Does all of this serious talk about gift giving take the wind out of your sails when it comes to showing your good cheer? Well don’t let it, because there are certain types of gifts that you can give that do manage to tickle a funny bone while remaining well within the bounds of what most people would consider acceptable humor. Traditionally, these gifts are items which are not normally given as gifts, but for the circumstances of the occasion make them funny in and of themselves. The young graduate, for example, who is sure to set the world afire, may be given a fancy lighter to start him blazing down his path. Later on in life, when he’s succeeded in making partner, he may display or keep the lighter as a reminder of his earlier days.
Gifts of anticipation can also be humorous in a good hearted in a unique and sentimental way, and these gifts are the easiest to give when one’s financial situation does not allow for something bigger. As an example, a young sailing enthusiast might be given a world map wrapped up with a card that expresses something like the following : We hope that the enclosed map will help you to find all of the treasures of the world, and, the quickest way back home should you find yourself in need of a hot shower and a place to get your laundry done for free.
One last thing to keep in mind when choosing funny gifts for women, as a rule, woman are less appreciative of such things, especially when the gift is given by a male. According to a large-scale survey, the percentage of females who are receptive to receiving funny gifts is very insignificant in comparison to men. The reason is not likely to be that women in general lack the sense of humor of men, but more likely, it is because most women do not like to be made to feel as though they are being laughed at in any way. Just as women don’t commonly like to talk about their age, neither to they want do be reminded of it by the so called funny cards and gifts they are bound to receive when turning yet another year.
In general occasions of gift giving are taken more seriously by women and by nature, women are more sensitive, and more likely, therefore, to be upset by someone’s clumsy attempt at being funny. It is always best with women to be sincere in your attempt to recognize an important occasion; always remember that with women, it is not about the gift itself, its about the thought that you put into picking it out for them. For her, it is your intention that turns a humbly wrapped trinket into precious treasure every time.
To see good examples of funny and humorous gifts, try visiting Gift Ideas Finder at www.LazyGift.com and select their “humorous” or “fun” links as the category to search. Feel free, while your there, to browse the many other gifts for good ideas on what to send when you’re simply stumped as to what to choose.
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Life Insurance Should Be Secured Early: By Andrew Regan
27/04/2007 by admin.
:arrow: A recent life insurance study has led to suggestions that individuals in the UK should look into securing a life insurance policy earlier in life rather than later, in order to effectively invest in and plan for the future.
According to James Harrison, chief executive of Insurancewide.com, consumers who begin saving earlier will enjoy the security of life insurance. According the research undertaken by the insurer comparison service, men aged between 35 and 42 are far more likely to apply for life insurance than individuals in their early twenties. Mr Harrison suggested that the early twenties was a good age to begin setting aside funds as people with debts or mortgages, and those who are self-employed are excellent candidates for setting up a life insurance policy.
Mr Harrison commented: “Life insurance is certainly not a top priority for most twenty-somethings, but when you stop and look at the cost you’ll see that it pays to start buying a policy as early as possible where there is a genuine need.”
However, choosing life insurance at such a young age can be daunting. After all, if neither death nor illness seems to be facing you anytime soon, how do you establish what’s best to include in your life insurance policy? Whatever your age, if you’re planning to purchase life insurance, it’s important to be aware of the options that face you in your search.
For instance, if you choose to buy life insurance in your twenties, then it might be best to opt for investment-type life insurance, also known as a whole-of-life or endowment policy. This type of life insurance will both pay out in the event of your death and accumulate in value during your lifetime. This means that, the younger you are when you choose to take out your life insurance, the greater the value it will accrue as the years go on.
Other types of life-insurance include protection-only life insurance. This is more popular with older life insurance buyers, particularly those looking for protection in times of illness, as it covers you only for a specified amount of time. However, if your death occurs after this period has lapsed, your family will receive no payments from your life insurance.
The study conducted by Insurancewide.com also revealed that men in the 40s and 50s were more likely to apply for life insurance than women.
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Andrew Regan is an online, freelance journalist.
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Posted in insurance, Health and Personal care, Finance, General | Print | No Comments »
Home Insurance And Flooding: By Best Deal Insurance
27/04/2007 by admin.
:arrow: It is thought that over two million homes throughout the UK are at risk from flooding. This is due to many factors such as heavy rainfall or high tides due to bad weather, although flooding can also occur through other mishaps such as broken pipes.
While certain areas are affected more than others, for example those near the coast, it is important that you check that you have adequate protection against the ramifications of a flood. A recent survey showed that more than half of British people were inadequately covered against flooding. In 2006, 52% of people who were affected by floods found that they weren’t covered.
This having been said, those who live in high risk areas will of course have to pay a higher premium than those who live in a low risk area. You are considered to be in a high risk area if there is a greater than 1 in 75 chance and a low area if the risk is 1 in 200. This data is used by insurance companies and is taken from a flood map which was originally devised by the Environmental Agency. While those in the low and medium risk areas should be able to get flood insurance for a price, those who are considered to be in the top risk bracket could find it next to impossible to get flood insurance.
Homeowners who are at risk are of course expected to take every possible step towards minimizing flooding themselves. Special products can be bought to help minimize the risk and you could be asked to purchase these before a company will accept your application.
As with any type of insurance, it is essential for you to shop around as premiums can vary from company to company particularly if you are in a higher risk area. Shopping online and visiting a specialist brokerage will enable you to get as many quotes as possible for insurance which includes flood damage and you should always make sure what you are and are not covered for.
While you may not be at high risk of flood, some companies that use postcodes to asses the risk could deem that you are high risk and unfairly you might have to pay over the odds. However by shopping around you can access a company that uses a different method for assessing the risk and so get a lower price premium.
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Launched in March 2003, BestDealInsurance are a completely independent specialist broker. They offer the full range of household insurance from buildings and / or contents insurance to buy to let cover, ensuring that their clients have the protection they need, without leaving a hole in their pocket
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Car Insurance: Company Comparison for the UK: By Sara Sentor
27/04/2007 by admin.
:arrow: According to the Independent newspaper, UK households are spending an average of £1000 annually for car and home insurance. Despite the rising cost of car insurance, many insurance buyers are not researching the market thoroughly. If they do so they will be able to get a bargain auto insurance.
There could be many reasons for not researching the insurance market. It could be less time, lack of information, not asking the right queries and many people simply don’t bother.
- Comparison of 3 popular Car Insurance Companies:
Norwich Union, More Than, Tesco Personal Finance.
More Than: Car Insurance
A financial brand of Royal Sun Alliance Insurance Group, More Than was launched in 2001. Its services include not only car insurance but also insurance in home, pet, travel and life.
Tesco Personal Finance: Car Insurance
Tesco Personal Finance provides services in finance and insurance. Insurance product range includes car, health, home, pet and life.
Norwich Union: Car Insurance
It is a subsidiary of AVIVA, worlds fifth largest and UK’s biggest insurance groups. Norwich Union’s insurance activities are monitored by Financial Services Authority.
Features of these Car Insurance Companies
- Online Discount Offers: Of the three car insurance firms, More Than offers maximum online discount of 15%. Both Norwich Union and Tesco Personal Finance offer 10% online discount.
- Breakdown Cover: More Than: 50% off breakdown is added to car insurance quote, specifically for prospective customers. Norwich Union: Does not offer a flat rate for breakdown cover. It is calculated based on the insured’s situation and £5 off is given for online breakdown cover.
- No Claims Bonus
More Than- Offers maximum no claims bonus for the life of your car insurance policy. This is offered to drivers with a good record, as a part of fully comprehensive car insurance policy. Driving conviction will make you ineligible for it.
- No Frills policy No Frills policy is offered by Norwich Union and Tesco personal finance. This does away with replacement car and personal injury cover and consequently reduces the cost of premium considerably.
- Pay as you go Pay as you go is the latest technology installed by Norwich Union and More Than in order to track down motorists’ usage. An optional offer, this will help car owners to cut down on their insurance cost.
More Than- Targets young drivers between the ages of 17-25 and offers a bonus at the end of the year if they don’t drive between the 11pm and 6 am.
Norwich Union- If motorists keep their car in the garage for six months, they will be charged less premium.
- Pay your premium in one go If you do not wish to pay a monthly premium, then Norwich Union gives you the option of paying your premium in one go.
All these offers are subject to availability so do check before hand with the company, when purchasing a car insurance policy.
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Sara Sentor Webmaster http://www.insurancesoso.co.uk
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Posted in insurance, Motors, Finance, General | Print | No Comments »
Playing Your Wild Card: By Nancy Ayash
26/04/2007 by admin.
:arrow: Why can’t I have the cards of other people? They get face cards; the King and Queen of Hearts; the great parents. And then the dealer throws them another high card; the Jack; good environment, private school, safe neighborhood; add the Ace of Diamonds; physical beauty and intelligence. Yes, they all get great hands. Life seems a bit easier when the cards are high.
All I have is a deuce, a four, a five, and an eight. And they’re not even the same suite. It’s not fair. I’m not happy with these cards. What can I do with such a poor hand? Then, just as I’m in the middle of feeling sorry for myself, the final and last card lands in my lap. It’s the Wild Card. And suddenly I realize I’ve just been thrown a powerful message; my success now depends on how well I play this card; the most important one in the deck.
The Wild Card can change any hand, even a poor one. It’s a mystical card; for it holds the potential and possibility of your life. The reason many people don’t use it is because they don’t realize they have it. They are so caught up in trying to “play their hand” that they take little notice of the Wild Card in their midst.
Your Wild Card represents YOU. It’s your talents, your inner-most desires and the means to achieve success. It is NOT a card of chance; it’s NOT a “lucky break” or coincidence; it is NOT an empty promise. The Wild Card is purposeful and functional; it contains determination, resolve, and an objective. You can play this card in any circumstance, any environment, against any “dealer” and you’ll always win.
It doesn’t matter what other cards you have been dealt. The Wild Card trumps them all. The trick of the Wild Card is for you to know its power. Stop worrying about the game; or being preoccupied with the hands of other players; or concentrating on the dealer. It’s time to pick up this card and use it.
Your Wild Card is most powerful when you know your goals. It’s not at all like other playing cards; they can be shuffled; used to add value to other cards; or even lose their worth (depending on the game). This is not the case for the Wild Card. It never loses its effectiveness or influence.
Remember, this card is your inner self, and the other cards are mere representations of your environment. Even if you have been dealt a poor hand, you always have this magical card that can be played anywhere, anytime. All you have to do is realize that the card exists, and that you can achieve any goal you set for yourself.
Now, I think it’s your turn to deal.
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Nancy Ayash is a freelance writer currently residing in the Pacific Northwest. http://www.creativewordz.com
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DVD to DivX - How to Convert DVD Movies to DivX Video Format: By Albert Eshbach
26/04/2007 by admin.
Divx is a popular multimedia format which allows you to enjoy your favorite movies, videos and shows on a variety of devices. One of the best things about Divx is that it compresses the original file to make it smaller. This is ideal for not only storage purposes but also for sharing as well.
Large files, even zipped ones, are difficult or even impossible to share with others. Not only that, but they can clog up your computer and eat up your available space in no time. Divx is an ideal solution for these problems. And, you can even convert your DVDs into Divx form so you can enjoy them anywhere at any time. Here is how it works:
The first thing you will need to do is make sure you have Microsoft Media Player and an MP3 Codec installed. Then you will need to choose a conversion software program. There are lots of them out there from which you can choose. Examples include AutoGK, XmPeg, Imtoo DVD to Divx Converter, DVD Ripper and many more. Once you’ve purchased and installed your conversion software, you’re ready to get started.
How to convert your DVDs into Divx format will depend on which conversion software program you have. Luckily most converters work much in the same way. When you use a conversion program, you will simply select the target output format you want to convert your DVD into. For example, you would choose Divx if that is what you wanted. After that, you insert your DVD into the drive and from there you can convert the whole thing, or just the specific chapters of your choosing. Some programs first convert DVDs into AVI format, then to Divx. Others go straight from DVD format to Divx.
It really is fast and easy to do once you get the hang of it. After a few conversions with a good software program, you’ll be an old pro. Conversion software is helpful and affordable, with most programs costing under $50. Once you convert your DVDs, you can do lots of things with them. You can watch them on your cell phone or iPod if it supports the Divx format, or you can burn them on disks so you’ll have backup copies. Always make sure you understand and are adhering to the state and federal laws which relate to the copying and conversion of DVDs and other multimedia material.
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