Phone on a USB

Skype, the program that makes it easy to have telephone conversations over the internet, is one of the most useful programs ever created for the PC. However, it can be frustrating and inconvenient to pitch up at a computer and discover that the program isn’t installed.

Fortunately, it’s relatively straightforward to get around this by putting a copy of Skype on a USB memory key and carrying it around – then, when the time comes to make a call, just plug the key into a spare socket and run the program as normal. Well, almost as normal. As this step by step guide explains, with only the smallest amount of tinkering it is possible to have Skype always on hand, whichever PC you’re using.

Don’t have Skype? Go to www.skype.com, download and install the software. Plug in a USB memory key and then double-click on My Computer, the main drive (usually C) then open these folders – Program Files, Skype and Phone. Open the USB key and then click and drag the Skype icon over from the hard disk to the USB key window. Next, right-click there and choose New, and then Folder and call it ‘Data’. Make sure the Skype program and the Data folder are stored at the key’s top level and not inside any other folders.

Next, click the Start button and choose All Programs, Accessories and then Notepad. We’re going to use this to create a small launch command that will make our USB-based version of Skype work properly. Type the following, exactly (including the spaces): skype.exe /datapath:"Data" /removable. Then click File, Save As and when the dialogue box opens, open the dropdown menu next to Save as type and choose All Files. Type in Skype.bat as the file name and save the file onto the memory key next to the copied Skype program.

Switch back to the open USB key window and scroll through the list of files. See the new one called Skype? To start the portable version of Skype we’ve created, double-click on this icon (be sure to choose the one that says MS-DOS Batch underneath it, not the original blue and white Skype icon). After a moment an odd-looking black window (a DOS window) appears and disappears, followed by the Skype program. Either create a new account or sign in with an existing name and password to continue and use the program as normal.

PC Sockets and Cables

Without any ports or sockets a computer wouldn’t be much use ­ you couldn’t easily connect a monitor, keyboard or mouse. Today, though, just about every desktop and laptop is covered in sockets, with many different types doing much the same thing. And, annoyingly, they’re usually not labelled at all.

Here, we have produced a complete pictorial guide to every socket you are likely to find on a modern, or even not so modern, computer.

So the next time you find yourself wondering exactly what on earth that strange square socket on the left of a laptop is there for, or which one of the three alternatives is the best way to connect an external disk, you’ll find the answer here.

1
In this picture, the left-hand socket is for connecting to a wired network. There are three speeds of network: 10Mbits/sec, 100Mbits/sec and 1,000Mbits/sec, known as Gigabit Ethernet, but all use an identical-looking socket. Most modern computers have a 100Mbits/sec socket. Many sockets include two small flashing lights to show when the connection is active. The socket on the right is Firewire 800, a newer, faster version of Firewire. Unlike USB2 and USB1 the two use different connectors. Firewire 800 is an extremely fast way to transfer information between a PC and external device such as a hard disk, but it’s relatively rare on Windows PCs.


2
On the left is the Mini DVI connection. This carries the same information as DVI (see step 9) and can be converted to a DVI socket using an adapter. It is rare and found only on Apple Mac computers such as this Mac Mini. The Mini DisplayPort, on the right in this picture, is a small video connector that can be found on some desktop and laptops, primarily those made by Apple, and a few projectors. Adapters are available to convert Mini DisplayPort outputs to a DVI-D connector.


3
USB (Universal Serial Bus) sockets such as this pair of USB 2 Type A can be used to connect just about any peripheral device, from printers to cameras, to scanners and hard disks. Most use the USB2 standard, but older PCs may have the slower but identical-looking USB1 ports. USB can work with many types of socket and plug: this Type A socket is the most common on PCs, but the squarer Type B socket is often found on printers and smaller Mini-B sockets are common on cameras (see step 13). All are interchangeable, so a cable can have a Type A plug on one end and a Type B plug on the other, for example.


4
The PS/2 connector is used to attach a mouse or keyboard. Many come in pairs, with a green connector for a mouse and a purple one for the keyboard, but this port can accept either. Although most mice and keyboards now connect via USB instead, many desktop computers continue to include these sockets for older peripherals. They can be handy: some PCs have Bios setup tools that can only be controlled via PS/2, and as most USB mice and keyboards include PS/2 adapters they can be used to free up a USB port for other devices. The abbreviation means ‘personal system 2’.


5
On the left is a Co-axial S/PDIF. Like the optical S/PDIF socket (see below) this connector is used to transmit digital audio to an external decoder. Unlike the optical version, however, it uses a standard RCA phono cable. On the right is an Optical S/PDIF socket. One of the silliest acronyms in computing, S/PDIF stands for Sony/Philips Digital Interconnect Format and is a way to transmit sound digitally. It’s also a method for transmitting information rather than a connector, so there are two common types of S/PDIF socket: optical and coaxial. This optical type, sometimes labelled TOSLINK, must be connected using a special fibre-optic cable. S/PDIF is used to link a computer to an external surround sound decoder, and as such is only of use to serious audio or home-cinema fans.


6
On the left is the eSata socket. The Serial ATA (Sata) system is used to connect the hard disks inside most modern computers, and eSata is a version of that system designed for external disks. Because most external hard disks contain a Sata hard disk inside, eSata allows for a direct link between the computer motherboard and the disk without any need for a system such as USB or Firewire. ESata allows for very fast file transfers, but it is still relatively uncommon and set to be superseded by USB3. On the right is a Firewire 400 port. Like USB, Firewire can be used to link many types of device, but it is most common on external hard disks and camcorders. This six-circuit connector is most common on desktop PCs, while some laptops have a smaller four-circuit Firewire socket. Firewire is also known as I.Link (on Sony products) and by its technical name IEEE 1394, so you may see either labelon the socket.


7
Most PCs use 3.5mm audio sockets that accept a jack plug of the type commonly found on portable headphones. These are usually colour coded: green for stereo audio output and pink for mono microphone input. Some PCs include extra surround-sound channels coded black (stereo rear speakers) grey (stereo side speakers) and gold (centre speaker and subwoofer). Some include a blue socket, which is a line-level stereo audio input.


8
The HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) socket provides a digital video picture and sound, so there is no need to use an extra audio cable alongside an HDMI one. HDMI inputs are common on high-definition televisions, and outputs are becoming more common on computers. HDMI has a lot in common with DVI (see step 9), so the two can be linked using an adapter to transmit video but not sound.


9
The VGA port is correctly known as a D-Sub DE15 socket, but everyone knows it as VGA (Video Graphics Array). It’s used to connect most older computer monitors, and is found on many older desktop and laptop computers as well as some flat-panel TVs. It supports only an analogue video signal, so when possible a DVI or HDMI socket should be used instead.


10
The white DVI or Digital Video Interface white socket for displays has replaced the older D-Sub VGA socket on most desktop and laptop computers, and can also be found on some flat-panel televisions. Most DVI outputs (marked DVI or DVI-I) can transfer both digital and analogue video, so it’s possible to connect a VGA monitor to one using a small adapter, but those marked DVI-D cannot be used this way. An alternative Mini-DVI socket is found on some Apple computers; this can be converted to DVI using an adapter (see step 2).


11
The yellow Composite Video plug at the bottom of this picture is found on some PCs. It carries a low-quality video signal. It can be converted to a Scart plug using an inexpensive adapter. Sound must be carried separately; normally using a stereo phono cable. The Component Video socket (at the top of the picture) is a high-quality video output that is sometimes available on powerful graphics cards using an adapter. It uses three RCA phono plugs, coloured green, red and blue, and is sometimes labelled YPbPr. It is capable of transferring high-definition video, but separate audio cables are required.


12
USB Type A is the most common type of USB connector. It has a flat rectangular plug. Almost every common peripheral will use one of these to connect to your PC.


13
USB Type B connectors are generally used to connect printers and scanners. This end will go into the printer, with a USB Type A plug (see step 11) on the other end for the PC.


14
Although there are many types of small USB connector, the USB Mini B is most common. It's often used to connect cameras and music players, with a Type A plug (see page 11) on the other end for your PC.


15
The Ethernet cable is used to make a wired network connection. You might connect one between your PC and router, for example.


16
A Firewire 400 cable of this kind is normally used to connect a camcorder to your PC, although some modern camcorders use USB instead.


17
The circular PS2 connector might be found on an older mouse or keyboard. Look for a green (mouse) or purple (keyboard) socket on your PC.


18
The VGA plug connects an analogue monitor to your computer. If no suitable socket is available you may need a DVI to VGA adapter.


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The DVI plug, normally coloured white, connects a monitor to your computer. Look for a white socket on your graphics card or laptop.

Choosing the Right Desktop PC

Today's modern desktop PCs offer a wealth of options: You can go for a PC with a fixed retail configuration, or you can customize your system by stepping through a sometimes dizzying array of choices from a configure to order vendor. The resulting array of components is no longer wrapped up in a beige box, but in a colorful shell of highly variable shape and size, differentiated by indecipherable naming conventions.

Presented with so many possibilities, you need to narrow the field by considering what you want to use your new desktop for. Are you an avid photographer looking for a speedy but cost effective platform for editing high resolution photos? If so, you'll benefit from buying a machine with extra RAM and a discrete graphics card. If you've acquired an extensive media collection, and want an inexpensive and compact way to pipe it to your HDTV, a compact PC tailored toward media sharing and playback may be your best bet.

Whatever your needs, you can find a desktop configuration to fit the bill.

Desktops fall into three major categories, each with its own range of price and performance: compact PCs, all in one PCs, and classic tower PCs (which we subdivide into budget, mainstream, and performance categories). Each style of machine has different strengths and weaknesses, and choosing the one that's best for you depends largely on how you plan to use it.

Once you've picked the appropriate desktop category, our guide to PC specifications will help you pick a machine that delivers the performance you need, while staying within your budget. And when you're ready to buy, check our shopping tips for advice on how to get the most from your investment.

Compact PCs
As the smallest members of the desktop computer family, compact PCs often omit features to deliver computing power in a space saving package. The combination of energy efficient components, quiet operation, and small size makes compact PCs ideal for people who want a nonintrusive machine. A typical compact PC costs between $300 and $600, though the price goes up as you add upgrade options.

Compact PCs tend to be equipped with notebook or netbook components, such as Intel Atom processors. This limits their usefulness in tasks that demand lots of processing power, but it makes for quiet, energy efficient operation. Not all compact PCs are created equal, however, so pay attention to specifications when shopping. Some compact PCs are configured for as low a bottom line price as possible; others are packed to the gills to deliver optimal performance in a compact system.

Most compact PCs rely on integrated graphics. In some cases (depending on the CPU and the integrated graphics chipset), anything more complicated than a Flash based browser game will be unplayable, but you will be able to eke out competent media streaming with Intel integrated graphics. A machine toting nVidia's Ion platform, like the Acer Aspire Revo R3610, usually fares much better. Gaming still isn't an option, but 1080p video is, whether you stream from a larger PC or over the Web.

When assessing smaller PCs, keep an eye on the ports. The smaller the footprint, the fewer features you can reasonably expect, and that includes fewer connectivity options. Though you'll get a VGA port and (on average) six USB 2.0 ports, many compact PCs also offer HDMI an asset for home theater setups. The typical hard drive size is 320GB, though 250GB is also common and we've seen compact system carrying up to 1TB (for a $100 upgrade premium). For a chart of recent high ranking PCs in this category.

All in One Desktops
All in One PCs are self contained: components are mounted behind a display, with screen sizes ranging between 18 and 27 inches. With no cords to manage or peripherals to juggle, setting up your new all in one PC can be as simple as pulling the machine out of the box and plugging it in.

With their compact size and integrated displays, all in one PCs can generally be placed wherever you've got a spare power outlet. Some all in ones also offer a rather distinct perk: Touchscreens. With support for multitouch gestures worked into Microsoft's Windows 7, all in ones offer a clever way for users to interact with their media, while still getting a full fledged PC.

All in one components vary from brand to brand, but you can expect to pay more for an all in one than for a similarly equipped desktop; again, some models target buyers on a tight budget, while others load up on performance oriented system components (at a higher price, of course). For example, to low priced machines like the MSI Wind Top AE2010 use notebook or netbook processors and integrated graphics. You'll get reduced performance to match the reduced price tag. If you have a larger budget, you can opt for a model like the Sony VAIO L117FX/B, which includes a quad core processor (most often seen on full size desktops), to deliver superior performance, and offers a large 24 inch screen. You'll be paying in the area of $2000 for those high end specs, however.

Many all in one PCs come with a wireless keyboard and mouse, Bluetooth support, and Wi Fi connectivity. This recuces cord clutter to a minimum an important consideration in spaces where an attractive décor or efficient use of space is at a premium. For ranked charts of all in one PCs that we have tested in recent months.

Budget PCs
A budget tower desktop carries standard desktop components, but can cost as little as $300 if you select older hardware or inexpensive, low end processors. Typically, these PCs are minitower systems, with fewer drive bays than a full tower has. The Acer Veriton X270, for example, offers an older Core 2 Duo processor but delivers relatively speedy performance for just $500. Beware models that come equipped with AMD Sempron or Intel Celeron processors, as those CPUs' performance drawbacks will cancel the advantage of their low cost.

Inexpensive tower desktops usually incorporate low powered, integrated graphics rather than discrete graphics cards. As a result, your entertainment options may be limited. High definition media playback suffers on models equipped with older Intel based integrated graphics; and if you're interested in gaming, you'll be hard pressed to tackle anything more demanding than Flash based offerings. Machines equipped with Intel's Core i3 processor build improved integrated graphics performance right onto the chip; though they still won't be adequate for video games, they will support satisfactory high def media playback.

Budget PCs generally offer at least 320GB of storage space and at least 2GB of RAM, but permit few upgrade options beyond adding RAM or a larger hard drive. They rarely leave much room for expandability inside their cases, either. Still, if you need a machine for nothing more than word processing, e mail, and occasional DVDs or online videos, these machines should suit you just fine. For a ranked chart of systems in this category.

Mainstream PCs
Higher up in the desktop chain, you'll find machines aimed at mainstream users. These PCs start in the vicinity of $800, and carry at least 500GB hard drives and about 4GB of RAM. Powered by dual core and lower end quad core processors, they deliver better performance than budget desktops, without breaking the bank. Consider the Gateway FX6800 01e: For just over $1000, this machine features a quad core Core i7 920 processor, and an ATI Radeon HD 4850 graphics card.

Photo editing applications stand to benefit from working with multicore processors, and entertainment enthusiasts will appreciate the improved gaming performance and stutter free HD media playback that a discrete graphics card helps deliver. Many of the machines in this category include a Blu ray drive, either standard or as an optional extra. And if your video editing needs are modest, you probably can find a machine in the mainstream price bracket that has enough power to handle your creative projects.

Performance PCs
Occupying the high end of the spectrum are performance desktops. Such PCs generally start at a little over $1500, with some outliers like the Maingear Shift hovering in the range of $7000. Most performance PCs are full tower systems, equipped with a slew of drive bays and expansion slots. Designed to tackle challenging tasks, they come equipped with the latest and greatest Intel and AMD dual and quad core processors, 6GB or 8GB of RAM, and at least one discrete graphics card. Some performance desktops include multiple graphics cards to deliver improved graphics performance.

Performance desktops are suitable for users who need a lot of processing power to get their work done professionals who do extensive high resolution photography or video editing, and gamers who are willing to pay for top of the line visual effects.

Traditional PC manufacturers like HP and Dell sell performance machines, but so do smaller boutique PC makers that specialize in highly configurable custom machines, tailored to your needs and budget. For a chart of recent high end models.