Skechers Sundown Festival 2014 in Singapore.

It's time to give in, party, dance and listen to your hearts content to the most awaited event every year which will finally take place this 22nd November 2014.  It's Skechers Sundown Festival at Marina Promenade, Singapore!

It will be bigger than ever this year with its massive line up of stars who will perform, coming in from 11 countries around Asia, meeting up in one place to entertain, brought about and put together by Red Spade Entertainment Pte. Ltd.

There will also be Asian street food available, so dig in and have a taste of what Asia has to offer of its array of mouth-watering food.

Early bird ticket buyers will have a chance to win a pair of Sketchers sneakers so visit their website now at  Singapore's Skechers Sundown festival and their Facebook page to get all the latest from promos to what's happening.

You may also get your tickets at any Rucksack Inn outlets in Singapore.  You can email and them as well at jacquelyn@rucksackinn.com and +65 96506090.

Don't be left out so do grab your ticket now!!

How often do you need to update your PC drivers from what Windows automatically provides?

If you own a computer (desktop PC or a laptop), you surely have experienced Windows notifying you repeatedly to update your computer from available software's they have on hand to update the current new ones you have already installed.

By default, Windows automatically downloads current softwares available for you when you want to install them.  It may also download and install them by default when you did nothing at the settings.  According to Windows FAQ, updating should be as often as possible since its the best way to prevent or repair known problems and they enhance the security ans stability of your computer.

From my experienced, updating as soon as possible from what Windows prompts us to install is not that obligatory or required if you don't want to apply them now.  I have experienced inconveniences which were introduced or brought about upon doing and applying certain updates which Windows often rapidly instructs me to do.  Its up to us users to decide if we want them or not, since its ours to choose.

You have to try to stick your nose onto a few settings here and there, so that you wont be prompted as often as possible and only do updates which you want your system to apply.  As long as your computer is working as it should be and how you want it to work, then updating can be DELAYED.  If you encounter a bit of trouble in the near future, then try to update then.

Providing such updates for each Windows user is how Microsoft proves that they are also focused on efficient after-sales customer service to enhance full customer experience by generously giving us these updates when they think that a driver should be revised so that it would act as efficiently as possible for full user satisfaction.  But if you are already satisfied from how your system runs now, why make the update.

How to declutter your iPad and iPhone to get free space.

Downloading apps which includes games and other useful ones, which aids us in our day to day schedule like maps and camera apps and most especially social application such as +Facebook  , +Twitter and +Instagram will seriously consume our available storage space. These again add up to our downloaded ibooks (if you love to read), songs and movies on your iPad and iPhone.  If you love to download like i do and does not pay attention to your +Apple devices free storage space, which subsequently clutter your gadgets storage space which will generally affect your device's speed.

Here's a simple way on how to declutter your device and promote additional free storage for other important apps you are looking at downloading in the near future.

Click Settings, select General and tap on Usage.  From here you will see your available and used-up space and which application contributes mostly on that used-up space.  Look closely and review each one.

You have the options in deleting some of these applications that you don't use much often or might have forgotten to access for quite sometime.  Look through the list and decide if you still would want to keep an app or two and delete those you would like to discard to free up more space.

Every data being kept on your device is coupled with an app which comes whenever you download them.
You may also tap on the Manage Storage and see through which apps are actually being backed-up.  You may want to buy additional iCloud storage if you do not want you iPad or your iPhone backing-up directly on your device and use iCloud service instead.  The idea here is to maximize your device storage capacity by focusing on which app or things you'd like your gadget to save and a few others goes to your iCloud storage.

Removing unwanted apps instantaneously free up space, but if you still need to free up some more and finds your remaining apps worth keeping.  You may turn and look for your saved songs, movies and photos. What you can do on these on the other-hand is to put them or save them in to your computer instead of deleting them.  deleting a photo is like deleting a memory or a part of you.  I definitely don't delete a single photo, i keep them safe so that whenever i would like to browse for memories i would turn to my picture folders on my pc.  The same thing goes for songs and movies, save them for future's use.

Freshening up your personal computer and leaving it invigorated.

Have you noticed your PC getting a bit slower every time you use it?  If you are experiencing this or is wondering why is it getting slower or what is wrong with it, then this is the possible simple solution for you.

Cleaning your computer from accumulated unwanted files stuck inside your hard drive, in your temporary internet files and others will definitely ruin the speed of your PC or laptop in due time.   Help it by following a few simple steps which will surely freshen up and re-energize it to do more task and make it perform much faster.  It's like removing toxins inside your body every now and then.

Actual photo from my pc

Using pre-installed Windows software will help you through this and if you still want to go for second options, you may download safe freewares to do the job.

Now to get us started.

First, using Windows Internet Options to do the trick:

> Go to Control Panel.
> Look for Internet Options and open it.
> Under Browsing History press delete and that's it.

Next, would be using Windows Disk defragmenter to removed unwanted file build-up. Defragging will save your PC's time to read billions of data information stored in your harddrive which are scattered and deposited all over the place randomly.  This will take a lot more time for your computer to read.  Defragging also rearranges all of your files in packets and removes gaps so that when it reads all things are in place and a hands reach so to speak, hence making everything easy to read and should improve the speed of your PC or laptop especially at start up.

To defragment your hard disk:

Actual photo from my pc

> Click the Start button. In the search box, type Disk Defragmenter and select it from the results.

> Under Current status, select the disk you want to defragment and click Analyze. Doing this will help you gather disk information and how much can be defragged. Once analyzing the disk is done, you can check the percentage of fragmentation on the disk in the results. If you'll see a number at 10% or above it, you should defrag your disk.

> If need be, Click Defragment disk.

It will take time to finish this process so when you decide to do it, if your using a laptop make sure it is properly plugged-in in an electric outlet and let your computer "chill" for a while.

Next would be deleting cache, cookies and other browsing data via your favorite browser.

> With an open browser, click Tools.

Actual photo taken from my pc

> Select Clear browsing data.

Lastly, you may also sought the help of a few trusted freewares that I'am also using to help me clean my PC thoroughly.  Do check my previous post "Helpful sites and software you can use for free".

Connecting to your favorite online game outside of your host country the easy way.

Have you ever encountered hassles connecting to your favorite online game (MMORPG- Massively Multiplayer Online Role-playing Game) and the outcome is futile do to your host country's restrictions?

If you did all your best downloaded everything that your friends suggested and still stressed out that your game wouldn't run.   If your haven't stumbled on trying a VPN (Virtual Private Network) which will help you solve your problems, then your missing out a lot. It will lengthen your connection and will institute a good connection through the use of devoted private links or connections.  It will also connects you securely and hides you from your host country's eyes.  It will definitely save you a bundle of your worries.

Now, when it comes to choosing your VPN provider, there are wide variety of sources to choose from.  But hey! Select the best by reading user reviews with the use of our friend.... Google.

Actual photo taken while I'm using the free version

I have been through that stress I mentioned above and this one saves me.  +Hotspot Shield powered by Anchorfree.  It connects you securely from your favorite public internet Wifi hotspots.  Just download it, install and run it and it will do everything for you automatically.  Its one of the largest free VPN service provider in the world and user tested.  The only unfavorable thing about it is the occasional ad pop-ups on top of your browser while running it, this happens if you are using the free version.   If you do not want ads popping up, download the Elite or paid version, which will boost your connectivity unlike the limited connections to other regions I've experienced using the free one.

When you want a lightweight VPN software solution which will enable the even the slightest privacy you would want whenever you connect to any public wifi hotspot, Hotspotshield is the software worth buying.

A guide to help you get around Singapore easily.

A lot of traveler experience walking their way to any spot in Singapore for the fear of hopping on a bus and missing their stop along the way.  Though walking a bit and riding the bus will help you see more and better appreciate the scenery.  Here's a bit of a guide which will help you think twice before walking your way to your next destination if its quite far for your feet to bear.

Before leaving the place where your currently staying make sure that you make use of the computers available at the lobby of your hotel or hostel.  Rucksack Inn chain of hostels has them for free and the crew on duty will surely assist and guide you (do check my previous post "Multi-awarded hostel in Singapore").  You may search for ( +gothere.sg - ) http://gothere.sg/maps or have their free app installed on your smartphone.

My thanks to appsinsg.com for photo

This website will definitely make your travel a lot easier in minutes to help you through the breathtaking tourist's spots.  It definitely work like a charm and incredibly fast.  It will give you the specific and shortest travel time to your desired destination.  It will direct you to which bus to take, where to take it and where exactly to stop.  Though transportation in Singapore is very convenient, disciplined and tourist friendly, you will still need this website to guide you to your destination and back.

So take that fear out and hop on that bus and +gothere.sg - will help you get there.

Rucksack Inn is one of the multi-awarded hostel chain in Singapore.

Going on a trip down to Singapore with just you or a few of your friends or family?

There's a  place that a lot of travelers are talking about when it comes to utmost cleanliness, exceptional service and very welcoming environment at  an affordable rates.  It's none other than Rucksack Inn chain of hostels in Singapore.

They are known for their superb service and light on the budget rooms and dorms meant for solo flyers, families and backpackers alike, who would like to see the exquisite beauty of Singapore and experience its local hospitality and outstanding food that a lot of people are craving for. So prepare to boost your appetite and dig-in to a variety of delicious food only Singapore can offer.

Rucksack Inn is most often the first itinerary of travelers as soon as they landed at Changi Airport, to chill-out and rest-away their jet-lagged in their cozy rooms and lounges.  It's unquestionably a home away from home which most tourist would say. You can also stay connected and chat with your families from their free to use iMac's and Wifi and let them know of your day to day experiences roaming around.

It has been the first choice of tourist since they initially started with their first branch located along Hongkong street and currently booming with 3 branches to serve you.  You will see their excellent reviews +Booking.com , +agoda , +Hostelworld , +HostelBookers and +TripAdvisor which only shows how outstanding their service is.  You'll see comments such as clean rooms, exceptionally friendly staff which will guide you to most beautiful spots if you are a first-time visitor or needing advise where to go first and save time and maximize your visit and make it very enjoyable.

Need i say more? So what are you waiting for, pay their website a visit and have a good glimpse of their facilities at http://www.rucksackinn.com/ .  Book your room or bed now and have fun like i did. It will be a vacation filled enjoyment.


Notes: Thanks to rucksackinn.com for all the photos

Cleaning your graphics card and read only memory (RAM) sticks with an eraser.

Have you ever tried on dismantling your PC piece by piece to clean it thoroughly? It is not often advisable to do, but if you know what you are doing, then why not.

I am used to clean my computer every now and then, and doing it takes a bit of time for the reason that when i do it, i often dismantle it part by part.  I'm not a technician but through the years, i found myself confident in doing it.

The first time i did it, is when i experienced a blue screen when i turned it on.  I had no choice but to force

Actual photo of my RAM stick

shutdown and turn it on again, sadly it didn't work and that blue screen is still there.   I was determined to have it fixed but before doing so, i sort of, tried to see if i can do it myself and find out what's wrong with my PC.  I took my laptop and searched the net for solutions regarding blue screens.  I found the answer from support forums.  They suggested that i should check my RAM sticks and have them cleaned by using an ERASER. It works!!  It did a great job.  Just make sure that before touching any part inside, do make sure that you are wearing an anti-static wrist strap or just by touching the unpainted metal frame of your pc.

Since then, removing my RAM sticks and my graphics card and cleaning then with an eraser has been my way of maintaining my computer.

In addition, cleaning your desktop PC from accumulated debris that gathered from the inside of your computer might help in keeping you pc in tip-top shape, especially the fans that might have stopped from running due to fragments around them.  You may use compressed air to blow these debris away to regulate the air that cools your computer.

Helpful sites and software you can use for free.

Who says, you cant have the best websites who offer very helpful software to help novice and professional-tweak-ters for FREE.

Photo by Majorgeeks.com

I have been using some of the best free to download and trouble-free software available to assist me managing, cleaning and tweaking my personal computer.  These applications are so easy to use that even a beginner can start using them without qualms on damaging their computers.  Their definitely safe, easy and at no cost to utilize.

One of whom is +MajorGeeks , offering shareware, free downloads of the best drivers to improve your
overall computer performance for beginner and advance users.  Each and every software they offer are backed-up with user reviews.  It's totally worry free. Try them, tweaking is definitely fun.

Photo by Howtogeek.com

Another is +How-To Geek.  On this site, you will be thought on how to use Systernals tools which will aid you in keeping your PC in excellent shape. The lessons they recommend will unquestionably educate and give you a wide understanding on your computer works.  Who knows, even professionals geeks might find something new here.

Actual photo using CCleaner free version

Last but definitely not the least is +Piriform which offers 2 of the best computer optimization and cleaning solutions easier and securely, which are CCleaner and Defraggler.   the former cleans all areas of your computer safely while the latter will defragg your entire hard drive and individual files and supports NTFS and FAT32 systems.

I have been using their product for years to keep my own PC's in tip-top shape and this is my own little way to say THANKS to them.

A computer gamer's point of view.

Photo by 6aming.com

Others may say that computer games are only for kids.  That may depend on which games your kids are playing.

As we all know, there has been a lot of debates whether playing computer games really does more negative effects than that of good ones.  These results may take effect depending on every individuals habit of playing.  If the habit becomes more intense that it does more harm than good like; skipping meals, becomes irritable, spends money unwisely, lacking sleep and poor eyesight.  Then its about time to reflect and lessen the time spent on playing.

As long as it does not hinders a person normal way of life or in doing things that the person normally does before he/she became addicted to computer games.  Then playing can be good and enjoyable.  Even food intake and exercising can be harmful when taken more than it should be. This only tells us that everything should be taken in moderation.

As a proud gamer myself, on my own point of view.  Playing my favorite pc games not only heightens my ability to solve problems and logic, they also provide me the following positive effects:

• Positional Awareness
• Coordination
• Precision
• Building strategy
• Attentiveness
• Enhanced memory
• Teamwork and a lot more 

Here are a list of the games I've played that i still recall:

• Galaga 
• Super Mario Bros. 
• Contra 
• Duck Hunt
• Sudeki
• Dota
• Fear
• Fable series
• Farcry series
• Cabal Online
• Torchlight
• Need for Speed series
• Hitman series
• Devil May Cry series
• Battlefied series
• Call of Duty series
• Resident evil series
• Bioshock
• Darksiders
• Castlevania Lords of Shadow Mirrors of fate (Currently playing)
• Prototype
• Deus ex
• Kindoms of Amalur Reckoning (currently playing)

Which one is best for you, a desktop PC or a laptop?

Looking for a suitable computer should come first by choosing which one is best for you from these 2 categories first: a desktop PC or a laptop PC. Once you have chosen.  Automatically the specifications would be next.  It all depends on the user and where it  is going to be used.  Its either for general writing, computing and surfing the internet or on Media streaming and hardcore gaming (eg.: Kingdoms of Amalur, Diablo 3_Reaper of Souls, Skyrim, Farcry series and Castlevania: Lords of the Shadow 2).  Even if you have the right budget to buy one, you still need to go through this process to determine which one will suit you best.

I have been a computer lover since i first saw one.  My eyes were gleaming with joy and amazement when i first saw a friend working on and playing with it.  It was a desktop PC running on Windows 95 operating system, which was the latest during those years.  Since then, I've been very motivated to learn how to use one and have one for myself, which manifested when i became a high school freshman. 

Photo by pcadvisor.co.uk

If you are a gaming enthusiasts and is looking forward on buying a computer, i would suggest a desktop PC to suit your needs. A PC that is packed with hardware specifications like:

• Intel I series CPU's (for Intel lovers choosing the right CPU ) and AMD FX series or A series (AMD processors )
• Hign-end video/graphics cards (List of Videocard manufacturers from directron.com  )
• 8-16gb RAM sticks (Random Access Memory cards)
• Motherboards (list of the best motherboard makers from ranker.com ( ranker.com )
• 1-2tb Harddrive (the best harddrive makers ranker.com)
• Gaming mouse and keyboards
• Minimum 21" LCD or LED monitor
• Out of this world casing ( directron.com ) 
• and not to mention a good power supply that would support all of the things mentioned above ( ranker.com ).

The good thing about going for a desktop PC  than a laptop is that you can customize it entirely bit by bit if you want the ultimate performance at your fingertips and upgrade it anytime you like.  Cooling solutions should also be considered to cool your PC when it's heating up.  You can just buy fans and heatsinks or you may also consult Cooler master to provide you the coolest casing ever built ( coolermaster.com ).

Photo by pcworld.com

Though laptop PC are a bit customizable nowadays, they could not support the ongoing upgrades to support each and every applications (based on my needs).  A few PC makers like Hewlett Packard (HP) now offers PC's that you can customize/personalize online and have it ship right to your doorstep. Once bought and built according to your liking, there will be no more upgrading in the future that can be done apart from RAM and harddrive.  Every little things inside are embedded especially the graphics card.  Most would go for Laptops for mobility which is the only logical feature that surpasses the desktop PC.  Gaming laptops that could play the latest high-end games but definitely couldn't withstand the heat that will surely generate while playing or even on streaming your favorite videos, especially for tropical countries like mine (Philippines) without you out of your air-conditioned room.  Battery packs and frequent charging will also become an issue to support being mobile most of the time.

Everything is said but at the end of the day its you who will decide on which PC you should go for that would sustain your needs.  Choose wisely.


Sidenotes:  The links given above are my choice of websites and manufacturers whenever i buy and compare hardware's to look for.