Computers, Laptops & Tablets

Father's day gifts from Google are the best alternative to the traditional tie, and you can get them at your neighbourhood Best Buy.

Intel describes its RealSense technology as enabling your PC to see more like you do. That sounds interesting, but once you realize what this actually means, it becomes clear that RealSense isn’t just another incremental upgrade. It’s a new direction for computers that has the potential to dramatically change the way we interact with PCs and what we do with them.

 Keyboards are often the most common peripheral we have connected to our computers and yet a lot of us don’t really give them a second thought when it  comes to what we have connected to our computers. Perhaps the one that came with your computer is just not good enough, certainly if you plan on doing any gaming on your machine. This article explores the details of why you might want to consider a better keyboard for yourself and some of the common things to look for.    

Microsoft just wrapped up its Windows 10 event and the future is looking very interesting indeed. Even more so considering Microsoft’s version of the future arrives later this year. We saw Windows 10 as expected (it looks like the OS that will finally get you off Windows 7) and a very compelling demonstration of how this operating system will unify your devices —from the PC to smartphone, tablet and Xbox One. Microsoft also dropped some hardware surprises, including HoloLens, the company’s take on augmented reality. Here’s what you need to know about what went down in Redmond.

 If a router could be designated as a tank, the Linksys AC5400 might be it. While already large in physical stature, it’s the power under the hood that makes this unit as robust as it is, even if a good deal of what’s in there can’t be utilized by most devices yet. In many ways, this is a router that is built more for the next year or two than it is for the here and now, and if that appeals to you, the AC5400 is worth a look.

In calling it “Velop,” Linksys has designed this mesh Wi-Fi networking system to envelop a home with better throughput to enable users to get more out of their Internet connection. With easier setup and management courtesy of a newer app, and blanketing performance, this is a router system that delivers as advertised.

Asus made a string of announcements at CES that will see the new Zenfone 4 Max Plus, ZenBook 13 and a new-look Lyra come out this year.

Wrapping up my overview of the big names in routers, the final instalment in the series is Netgear. The US-based company has a long history of manufacturing telecommunications gear (it was once a division of Canada’s Nortel Networks) and has an extensive line of wireless routers, Wi-Fi extenders and adapters for the home and small business market. You probably know it best for the Nighthawk series of blistering fast AC routers.

Got an older iMac, MacBook Air or other Apple computer you’re thinking of handing down to someone in your family? It’s tempting to pass your old Mac on to someone—especially a student—but new Macs bring a lot to the table. In many cases, it may be better to buy them a new Mac than to give them your old one.