Wii and Netflix Match or Mismatch?

Netflix users have been waiting for an easier way to "watch instantly" on a TV for a while now, or at least I know I have. Watch instantly is a feature that comes with a membership to Netflix. It allows users to watch streaming movies and TV shows from Netflix.com. What does this mean? Basically, your Netflix Ready Device (including; Xbox, some DVD and some Blue-ray players, some TV's, computers, etc) will allow you to connect to the Netflix website and watch quite a few TV shows and movies instantly. Visit http://tinyurl.com/ye6wuf9 for a full list of compatible devices.
Watch Instantly is great for sick days when there's nothing on TV but soaps, and you've exhausted your current Netflix movie stash.

For those of us who have the Wii the capability to watch instantly from it has just been added. To do this simply visit the Netflix website, log into your account, and go to this address http://www.netflix.com/wii Follow the steps to have a Wii Instant Streaming Disc sent to you. Once it arrives put it into your Wii, and run it like a game. You will need to write down an activation code, then access your Netflix account from a computer to activate your Wii. Wait a few minutes for your Wii to activate and your set.

Now, for the nitty gritty. First of all, this isn't a difficult process, but it is more lengthy and time consuming than it should be. I have not set up any of the other Netflix Ready Devices so I'm not sure if this is the standard, but it is still a bit much either way.

The main issue for someone like me is that the Wii still uses component cables, which means its resolution isn't near what it should be considering it's main competitors are Xbox and Playstation 3 who both offer HD resolutions. What this means for you is that if you chose to watch movies from your Wii, they will be in a comparable resolution to a progressive scan DVD player (480i)! Why Nintendo continues to remain static in the resolution game I don't know. Nintendo has been using component cables for years, isn't it time for an upgrade guys. 480 is fine for the bulk of Wii games, but I would love to see some higher resolution games for the Wii.

For an avid movie buff like myself, watching streaming movies in 480i isn't worth it. I paid too much for this HD LCD TV to watch movies in low resolutions. That said, if this was my only solution I would probably use it. However, another downside is that whenever you want to utilize the Netflix Watch Instantly feature you have to put the Netflix Streaming Disc into your Wii. Now I'm certain a few of you out there are calling me lazy, fair enough, but the whole idea of watch instantly is convenience, and let's be honest, watching movies is a lazy activity, let's keep it that way.

Currently, my setup includes an old pc I had laying around connected to the VGA (PC) input on my LCD TV in the family room. This gives me near 1080i resolution and surround sound capabilities. Not everyone has 8 or 9 pc's laying around the house like I do though. I do think most people have an older pc somewhere in the house that's not being currently used. If it happens to be small enough to fit into your family room, the setup is quite simple. All you need is a wireless network, and a wireless card in your pc (check out TigerDirect.com for an inexpensive USB wireless card). You could even use your laptop if it has HDMI, S video, or VGA outputs.

Once you have your pc connected to the wireless network and your TV, simply visit the Netflix website, follow the tabs to Watch Instantly and pick something to watch! It's really simple to do. Some pc's may require a Microsoft Silverlight upgrade, or a Service Pack update, if so, DO IT! You should have the latest Service Pack for security and functionality purposes anyway.

So, what's the verdict? If already you have a Wii, and want to watch movies and TV shows instantly on your main TV its not a terrible solution. All you really need to know is that there are better solutions available. In this economy it is easier and cheaper to use the "I already have this" argument instead of buying new equipment.

If you have any questions, or need assistance setting up any of these configurations please feel free to contact us at StellarWindTechServices@gmail.com More contact info can be found on our website www.StellarWindTechServices.com

Rules For Safe Computing

Here are some good rules to follow that we find can greatly reduce your risk of getting viruses and malware.

1. Don’t open email attachments from people you don’t know or forwarded email from people you may not know.

2. Don’t click links in email. Copy and paste links into your browser, or type them in by hand instead. That link could lead you to a phishing site.

3. Do not file share. Peer to Peer file sharing sites (torrent sites) are virus laden.

4. Update your Operating System (ex. Windows XP, Vista, etc) regularly. Turn on automatic updates in OS X and Windows. Apply all critical updates immediately.

5. Make sure the Windows firewall is activated. We don’t recommend third-party software firewalls.

6. Only run as an administrator on your operating system when you need to. Run as a limited user as much as possible. Windows, Linux, and Mac OSX allow you to run a majority of features, but with some additional safety, as a limited user.

7. Be patient with software installation. Be sure to read each page carefully and deselect any unwanted check boxes. This will keep the amount of unnecessary software from sneaking its way onto your computer. (i.e. toolbars and smiley programs)

8. Keep your software. Every new computer comes with software discs or a secondary hard drive with restoration files. These files are key to fixing any major problems with your computer. Also, hang on to any software you purchase (i.e. Microsoft Office) so you do not have to repurchase it later.

Following these rules, and making sure those who use your computers follow these rules, should keep you running virus free, but there is never a 100% guarantee. Remember to always use an anti-virus along with these rules, and to maintain your computer with regular optimizations and cleanings inside and out.

For assistance with any of these rules or questions/comments, please feel free to contact us at StellarWindTechServices@gmail.com or visit us online at www.StellarWindTechServices.com

Chose the best Screen Resolution for your Computer Monitor

Often times we notice that some of the monitors we work on are not set to their optimal resolution. Most monitors these days are capable of resolutions in access of the old 800x600 of years past. Confused? No worries. We will give you a step by step guide to help you chose the best resolution for, well, you.

1. Start by right clicking on your desktop with your mouse and select “properties”

2. Select the “settings” tab

3. Move the “screen resolution” slider bar to the right one notch, you will see a small gray preview in the top part of the window.

4. When you find a resolution you would like to try out select “apply” and see if that works for you, if not, try another, and another.

Some video cards may only support 2 or 3 options, while others may have many options. Find the setting that works best for you. A good rule of thumb is that most websites are designed for a minimum resolution of 1024x768. 1280x1024 and higher resolutions can up take some getting used to, but after a short time it’s worth it.

Holiday Shopping Safety

Holiday Shopping Online—An Identity Thief's Favorite Time of Year

For most of us, the holiday season is one of joy, family, and happiness. These warm feelings coupled with crazy store lines and time constraints can create a distraction and sense of urgency while shopping online. Hackers know this is the best time of the year to capture personal information, and use it. In the commotion of the holiday season, it’s also easy to overlook the extra charges on your cards. You can even have your identity stolen and can lose much more than a few hundred or even few thousand dollars. So before you enter your information into a website we ask that you follow a few guidelines.

1. When you receive emails from websites with sale information, coupons, etc., do not click on the link in the email as this could lead you to a phishing site, instead type in the web address into your browser and write down any coupon codes from the email so you can redeem them if they are in fact valid.

2. Only buy items from reputable websites. If you find a great deal but have never heard of the seller before don’t be afraid to search the internet for reviews and check the validity of the website. This step may take a few minutes but can save you a few months or more of hassle if your identity gets stolen.

3. Look for “https://” in the address bar before entering any personal information.

4. Look for a little yellow lock (like the one in the picture to the left) somewhere on the bottom of your browser, this means the website is secure.

Enjoy shopping safely this holiday season!

PC System Optimization

New Video soon

Hello everyone. We will have a new video for you soon. Good tips and techniques soon to come.

Introduction

Welcome to the Stellar Wind Tech Services blog. We will be compiling our knowledge and giving free tips and techniques here for all your technological devices on a regular basis. The first installment will be up shortly, please keep up with us for some interesting content very soon.

We will also give brief reviews and information on new tech gear we feel might be a good addition to your collection.

Also, for all your tech needs in the Elgin, IL and Lombard, IL areas please visit us at www.StellarWindTechServices.com