A window to Vista
A window to Vista
And so, after five long years, Microsoft has done it again — given the world a new reason for computers to crash, and still more reasons to get a new PC — Windows Vista! The project which began in 2001 codenamed Longhorn, is here and it doesn't look good.
Early reviews are not very positive. If you do a search in Google for Windows Vista feedback, you'll find lots of criticism and scorn.
The new Operating System requires a much higher system configuration, and quite a few reports suggested doubling the system specifications that Microsoft recommends.
Thanks to this, well over 50 per cent of computers — desktops and laptops — will need to be upgraded, or replaced. Especially the video cards, a graphics card built into the motherboard is not going to suffice. You will need a separate, dedicated card.
In their quest to ensure use of original licenced software, you will now have to register the software in 30 days. If you fail to do so, the system goes into a 'reduced functionality state', giving you few options to work with and then after an hour the system will force itself into shut down mode.
Its versions
Windows Vista is coming out in different versions starting from a simple basic package for the home user, going up to an 'Ultimate' edition which gives you all available features in Vista.
Shrewd that Microsoft is, even though there are bugs (yes, the first ones are out) the world is eventually going to shift to this new offering. At least be forced into it anyway, especially when companies create newer programmes and games that work only with Vista. And even more so when device driver support for Windows XP gets gradually phased out.
n The writer is a twenty-something techno-nut
System requirements
The Vista's website (www.windowsvista.com) says that you can run the basic version of Vista if you have:
- An 800 MHz processor;
- 512 MB RAM and
- A 20 GB hard disk with at least 15 GB of free space.
What's new
- The user interface looks and feels much more pleasant and most prominent is the 'Aero' interface that shows you windows through translucent panes floating on your computer screen.
- There is also a new 'Sidebar' with gadgets such as clocks, weather forecasters, etc.
- Photographs, video and music get a boost with improved viewing and editing abilities thrown in, rather than your having to rely on other software to view or make changes.
- Plus points also for improved search and back-up facilities. There's also an option to retrieve a deleted file.
- On the technical side, installation is going to be a lot easier, and you will no longer have the multiple reinstall processes that Windows XP had.
Would you upgrade your computer to Windows Vista?
Definitely not, because it is a plain copy of the Apple version."
Anshoul Purohit, business, American University in Dubai
"Of course because I would like to try new technologies."
— Zahiya Hassan, advertising, AUD
"Yeah. I have a lot of computer geek friends who recommend it. Plus aren't you sick of Windows XP?"
Anhar Yahia, business administration, Alhosn University
I-BYTE
More blurs on Google earth
Google has agreed to blur certain areas over India. The decision follows a request from the Indian Government after fears that terrorists could exploit the satellite images shown of the site.
The programme that has a huge database of satellite images of the Earth has in the past done similar blurring of military sites and nuclear power plants at the request of governments.
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