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  • The Right Way to Clean Your PS5 and Controller for Optimal Performance

    The Right Way to Clean Your PS5 and Controller for Optimal Performance

    Nobody likes a dirty PlayStation 5 (PS5), and keeping it clean is crucial for its performance. Luckily, you don’t need to be an expert to maintain your PS5 – simple cleaning can go a long way in preserving its functionality. Let’s explore how to clean your PS5 console and controllers the easy way.

    PS5 console

    How Often Should You Clean Your PS5

    Dust and dirt are inevitable, no matter how clean you are. These tiny particles can sneak into your PS5 and harm its internal components, especially the fan. Over time, this can lead to overheating issues. To avoid such problems, it’s advisable to clean your console every couple of months.

    As for your PS5 controller, it’s a good idea to clean it weekly or after each use. Even if you wash your hands before gaming, natural oils and sweat can accumulate on the controller, making it dirty. Dust can also threaten your PS5 DualSense controller, collecting around buttons and causing drifting issues. Cleaning your controller regularly helps prevent these problems.

    Essential Cleaning Supplies

    Cleaning your PS5 is straightforward, and you won’t need fancy equipment. Here are the essential supplies:

    1. A terrycloth or microfiber cloth.
    2. Isopropyl alcohol.
    3. Q-tips.
    4. A low-powered vacuum.
    5. Compressed air.

    It’s crucial to use the recommended products to avoid causing harm to your console. Liquids like soapy water can damage electrical components, so stick to isopropyl alcohol, which evaporates quickly, reducing the risk of damage.

    Avoid using household vacuum cleaners as they are too powerful and can generate static electricity, potentially causing serious damage to your console.

    How to Safely Clean Your PS5

    Cleaning your PS5 and DualSense controller is simple, and you don’t need to take everything apart. Here’s how to safely clean them:

    PS5 Console

    1. Turn off your PS5 and unplug it
    2. Use a low-powered vacuum to remove dust from vents and openings.
    3. Gently wipe the console’s exterior with a microfiber cloth.
    4. Dampen a cloth with isopropyl alcohol and clean the surface, paying attention to stubborn spots.
    5. Use compressed air to blow away dust from hard-to-reach areas.
    6. Plug in and turn on your PS5 once it’s completely dry.

    DualSense Controller

    1. Turn off your DualSense controller.
    2. Wipe the controller with a microfiber cloth to remove surface dirt.
    3. Dampen the cloth with isopropyl alcohol and wipe down the controller.
    4. Use a Q-tip dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean around the joysticks and buttons.
    5. Rotate the joystick while cleaning to reach all areas.
    6. Ensure the controller is dry before turning it on.

    Regular cleaning helps maintain your PS5’s longevity and performance. While you can’t completely prevent dust, these cleaning tips will keep your console and controller in top shape.

  • Samsung might offer seven years of updates for Galaxy S24 series

    Samsung might offer seven years of updates for Galaxy S24 series

    Samsung, known for its top-notch smartphones, is gearing up to unveil the Galaxy S24 series, with leaks revealing significant details. Besides the expected focus on AI features, there’s speculation about an impressive software surprise—Samsung may provide seven years of support for the new Galaxy flagships. The report, while not confirming if it’s about security patches or full Android/One UI updates, is a potential game-changer for Android. Google set a precedent with seven years of updates for Pixel 8, and if true, Samsung’s move could influence other smartphone makers.

    Galaxy S24 series

    While the exact details remain uncertain, Samsung’s possible move to extend software support is gaining attention. If it includes Android and One UI updates, it would be a substantial commitment, setting a new standard for the Android ecosystem. Google’s announcement of seven years of updates for Pixel 8 last October drew considerable attention, and Samsung appears to be considering a similar strategy for its flagship Galaxy S24 series.

    The report suggests that the seven-year support might encompass both security patches and full Android/One UI updates. If implemented, it would be a welcome move for users, assuring them of long-term software support for their devices. This could significantly impact the Android ecosystem, urging other smartphone manufacturers to extend their support timelines, thereby enhancing the overall user experience.

    Google’s initiative last year highlighted the importance of prolonged software support in building user trust. If Samsung follows suit with a seven-year commitment, it could reinforce the idea that manufacturers are invested in ensuring their devices remain relevant and secure over an extended period.

    It remains to be seen whether Samsung will include its 2023 flagship devices, like the Galaxy S23 series, under this extended support program. Past trends, such as the extension of Android and One UI upgrades from three to four years, suggest that the company might adopt a similar approach.

    Additionally, the report hints at another move by Samsung to provide Galaxy AI features for free until at least 2025. However, from 2026 onwards, there might be a shift toward monetizing some of these AI capabilities. This strategy could be aimed at creating a balance between offering innovative features and establishing revenue streams for sustained development.

  • Decoding VFX: Unveiling the Magic Behind Movie Special Effects

    Decoding VFX: Unveiling the Magic Behind Movie Special Effects

    Visual Effects, commonly known as VFX, plays a significant role in today’s film industry. This technology enhances scenes after the movie is shot, utilizing computer software for various special effects.

    Visual Effects

    VFX brings unreal situations to life, like people falling from airplanes or massive explosions. These scenes are created on computers to make them look realistic. However, many people wonder why filmmakers use green or blue screens during such shoots.

    While both colors are used, green is more prevalent. The choice between green and blue relates to the camera sensor’s color filter. The camera sensor has a filter layer capable of detecting three primary colors.

    The green color filter holds the most significant presence at 50 percent, followed by blue at 25 percent and red at 25 percent. This configuration mimics the human eye’s ability to detect green well. Additionally, editing software can easily recognize and remove the green screen.

    The human eye is adept at recognizing green, making it a suitable choice. Editing software can then remove the green color, allowing the addition of the desired background. Using other colors complicates this process, making them less practical.

    While blue screens are an option, they are more expensive due to the requirement for ample lighting. Movies like Harry Potter and Spiderman have used blue screens. The advantage of using blue is that it does not negatively impact the subject’s color.

  • Windows QR Code Scanning Made Simple: Step-by-Step

    Windows QR Code Scanning Made Simple: Step-by-Step

    Scanning QR codes on your Windows computer is a straightforward process that doesn’t require a smartphone. Windows provides multiple options, including using the native Camera app for live scanning and external services for image-based QR code recognition. Additionally, dedicated apps like Codex offer a user-friendly experience for both live camera scanning and extracting QR codes from existing images. This guide simplifies the methods, making QR code scanning accessible to users on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

    QR codes

    1. Using the Windows Camera App
    – Click the magnifying icon on the taskbar or press Win + S to open the search menu.
    – Type “camera” and choose the first result.
    – Click on the arrows to reveal the Barcode button.
    – Place your QR code in front of the computer’s camera, and it will be scanned automatically.

    2. Scanning QR Codes from an Image
    – Use an online QR code scanning service like ScanQR.
    – Visit the ScanQR website and click Drag & Drop or Browse.
    – Select the image with the QR code, and the website will scan it, showing the result in the Scanned Data box.

    3. Using the Codex App
    – Download and install the Codex app on your PC.
    – Open the app and click the Scan QR Code button.
    – Choose the Camera option and allow camera permissions.
    – Place the QR code in front of the camera for automatic scanning.

    If you want to scan a QR code from an existing image
    – Open Codex, select Scan QR Code, and choose File.
    – Click Select Image, locate the image with the QR code, and open it.

    Now, let’s break down each method:

    Using the Windows Camera App
    Microsoft has added a QR code scanner to the native camera app on both Windows 10 and Windows 11. You can easily access it by searching for “camera” in the taskbar. Once open, click on the Barcode button and position your QR code in front of the camera. The app will scan it automatically.

    Scanning QR Codes from an Image
    While the Windows Camera app is handy, it can’t scan QR codes from existing images. To do this, use an online service like ScanQR. Visit their website, upload the image with the QR code, and let the website scan it for you. Copy the result from the Scanned Data box if needed.

    Using the Codex App
    Codex is an app available on the Microsoft Store for scanning QR codes. Download and install it, then open the app and click on Scan QR Code. Choose the Camera option, grant camera permissions, and place the QR code in front of the camera for scanning. If you want to scan a QR code from an image, follow the steps provided within the app.

  • Affordable Gaming: Top Budget Motherboards for 2024

    Affordable Gaming: Top Budget Motherboards for 2024

    Choosing a good and affordable motherboard for gaming in 2024 is important. Building a gaming computer can be expensive, but the motherboard doesn’t have to be. You can save money on the motherboard and use that budget for a better GPU and CPU. Even budget motherboards come with features like the latest Intel and AMD sockets and Gen 5 M.2 slots.

    MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk

    The MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk is a great budget motherboard for gaming. It has many features without major drawbacks. While having Gen 5 M.2 sockets would be nice, Gen 4 is still good. It provides three sockets, giving you plenty of space. The motherboard also has a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot for your GPU, capable of handling full-sized GPUs without sagging. The LGA 1700 socket is perfect for budget builds, allowing you to start with an entry-level CPU and upgrade later with just a BIOS update.

    The Gigabyte A620I AX is another budget motherboard that is easy to work with, making it ideal for those new to PC building. It supports AMD’s Ryzen 7000 series processors and comes with the Q-Flash Plus feature. This feature lets you update the BIOS with just a USB drive, power support, and the press of a button. The EZ-latch ensures a snug fit for your GPU and makes it easy to eject when upgrading your rig. While limited to PCIe 4.0 GPUs, it still works well with modern GPUs.

    For those who want to overclock their Intel processor on a budget, the ASRock B760M PG Riptide is a good choice. It supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors. Overclocking can provide extra power, especially when combined with proper cooling like an AIO cooler. The motherboard also supports PCIe 5.0 GPUs, allowing for future upgrades. The slot has anchor points and a strong latch to hold heavy graphics cards securely.

    On the AMD side, the ASUS TUF B650-Plus is a budget motherboard with an unlocked AM5 socket, perfect for overclocking AMD processors. It supports DDR5 and overclocking, providing a performance boost. The motherboard features heatsinks for the VRM and M.2 slots to manage heat generation. It also has RGB and ARGB headers for personalization, allowing you to sync colors using ASUS’s Polychrome Sync software.

    Finally, if you want personalization without breaking the bank, the ASRock B760M Steel Legend is a budget-friendly motherboard. It features RGB and ARGB headers for customizable lighting. The LGA 1700 socket, DDR5 support, and PCIe 5.0 graphics card support make it a solid foundation for your gaming build. While limited to Gen 4 M.2 speeds, it provides three slots for big SSDs.

  • Avoiding Scams: Understanding Phishing, Smishing, and Vishing

    Avoiding Scams: Understanding Phishing, Smishing, and Vishing

    Scams want your money, and they come in different forms. Have you ever got strange emails, texts, or calls asking for money or personal info? Scammers use tricks called phishing, smishing, or vishing to get you. How can you know and avoid falling for these tricks? Let’s break down the differences between phishing, smishing, and vishing:

    Phishing

    Phishing
    Phishing usually comes through emails. Scammers send emails that look like they’re from your bank, a store, or a government agency. They make it seem urgent, like a problem with your bank account or an order from Amazon. They want you to click on a link that seems real but takes you to a fake page. When you enter your login info there, they can access your account and cause trouble.

    Smishing
    Smishing is like phishing but through text messages on your phone. Scammers send texts that look real, maybe from your bank or a friend. They include links for you to click. If you click and give your login details, you fall into their trap.

    Vishing
    Vishing is voice phishing over phone calls. Instead of emails or texts, scammers call you. They might use tricks like saying your Social Security number is in trouble or you owe money to the IRS. They create fear to make you share personal info.

    Phishing Emails
    Bad people send fake emails, pretending to be your bank or others. They make you click on links to steal your info.

    Smishing Texts
    Scammers send tricky texts, acting like your bank or a friend. They want you to click links and share your info.

    Vishing Calls
    Bad guys call and tell scary stories, like problems with your Social Security. They make you share personal info.

    How to Spot These Scams
    Look for signs like strange sender addresses or emails about things you didn’t sign up for. If it seems odd, it probably is.

    Example
    I got an email that looked weird and claimed to be from Cash App. I don’t use Cash App, and the sender’s address seemed fake. They wanted me to click a link, but I deleted the email because it felt wrong.

    Tips to Stay Safe
    1. Don’t click on strange links.
    2. Check sender details.
    3. If it seems urgent, double-check with the real company.
    4. Delete suspicious messages.
    5. Don’t share personal info over the phone unless you’re sure.

    Remember, scammers want to trick you, but being careful keeps you safe!

  • Breakthrough Study Reveals High Levels of Nanoplastics in Common Bottled Water Brands

    Breakthrough Study Reveals High Levels of Nanoplastics in Common Bottled Water Brands

    Scientists found almost 250,000 tiny nanoplastic particles in a liter of bottled water, using a special microscope with dual lasers for the first time. The researchers at Columbia and Rutgers universities discovered these microscopic plastic pieces in five samples each of three common bottled water brands. The particle levels ranged from 110,000 to 400,000 per liter, with an average of around 240,000, as reported in Monday’s Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

    nanoplastic particles

    Nanoplastics are less than a micron in size, which is much smaller than previous studies on slightly larger microplastics. The study found 10 to 100 times more nanoplastics than microplastics in bottled water. The plastic seems to come from the bottles themselves and the reverse osmosis membrane filter used to keep out contaminants.

    The researchers are uncertain about the health effects of these nanoplastic particles, and further studies are needed to determine if they are harmful. The International Bottled Water Association and the American Chemistry Council emphasized the lack of standardized measuring methods and scientific consensus on the health impacts of nano- and microplastic particles.

    Plastic pollution is a significant global issue, with more than 430 million tonnes of plastic produced annually, leading to microplastics in oceans, food, and drinking water. The United Nations Environment Programme notes efforts for a global plastics treaty, which has faced challenges in recent talks. The study’s co-authors have reduced their bottled water use after conducting the research, recognizing the impact of plastics on the environment and potential health concerns.

    While the danger of plastics is still uncertain, experts express concern about additives in plastics, as nanoparticles can be internalized into cells, potentially causing cell stress, DNA damage, and changes in metabolism or cell function. The study introduces a new tool for detecting nanoplastics, and experts recommend further research to replicate the technique and results.

  • How to Fix Uneven Earbud Volume: Simple Solutions

    How to Fix Uneven Earbud Volume: Simple Solutions

    Dealing with one earbud being louder than the other can be really annoying. Luckily, there are easy fixes you can try right now. One common reason for this issue is earwax. Our ears produce earwax to keep them clean, but it can affect earbuds. To clean them, remove the silicone tips and use cleaning putty to gently remove built-up dirt. Avoid using liquids like alcohol, as they can damage the earbuds.

    Earbud

    If the problem persists, you can remove the mesh covering the earbud and clean it with putty. Be gentle and avoid piercing the earbud. Ensure the mesh is securely glued back after cleaning. Another unconventional trick is gently sucking on the earbud to dislodge internal dirt. It might sound strange, but it can be surprisingly effective.

    Ear tip size matters. The tips create a seal in your ears, blocking external noise. Experiment with different tip sizes to find the perfect fit. Also, consider that ear canals may not be symmetrical, leading to differences in volume perception. On Android devices, absolute volume can cause issues.

    Disable it in the developer options to separate earbud and phone volume controls. Ensure your earbuds have separate volume adjustments for this to work.

    Check for firmware updates through the manufacturer’s app. Firmware updates can improve functionality, add features, and fix issues. Keep your earbuds’ firmware up-to-date regardless of volume problems. These simple solutions should help you enjoy balanced volume on both earbuds again.

  • Razer’s Latest Blade 16: A Gaming Powerhouse with Cutting-Edge Display

    Razer’s Latest Blade 16: A Gaming Powerhouse with Cutting-Edge Display

    Razer, known for gaming accessories and sleek PCs, unveiled its updated Blade laptop series at CES 2024. These laptops are not only popular among gamers but are also appreciated for their performance, making them suitable for office use. Let’s take a closer look at the refreshed Razer Blade lineup for 2024.

    Razer's Blade Laptops

    The spotlight of the new lineup is on the Razer Blade 16, featuring the world’s first OLED 240Hz 16-inch display. This promises to deliver one of the finest laptop screens available. Powered by the Intel Core i9-14900HX processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 graphics card, the Blade 16 is designed to handle demanding tasks and provide exceptional performance.

    With an aluminum unibody design and advanced cooling using vapor chamber technology, this laptop aims to stay cool while looking stylish – earning it the nickname of the “MacBooks of gaming laptops.”

    The Blade 14 is a more compact option at 14 inches, targeting gamers who are often on the move. Equipped with the AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 graphics, this laptop maintains a slim and lightweight profile at 0.71” thin and 4.05 lbs.

    It boasts up to 10 hours of battery life, making it suitable for portable gaming sessions. The 16:10 QHD+ 240Hz display, upgradable DDR5 memory, and modern connectivity options like USB4 and Wi-Fi 7 add to its appeal.

    Razer offered a sneak peek at the upcoming Blade 18, set to release later in the year. Positioned as a large and powerful gaming laptop, the Blade 18 aims to feature the world’s first 18-inch 4K 165Hz display and Thunderbolt 5 for high-performance connectivity. While specific details are yet to be revealed, this model is expected to cater to gamers seeking a robust and immersive gaming experience.

  • Top Picks: Dell Laptops for Business Professionals in 2024

    Top Picks: Dell Laptops for Business Professionals in 2024

    Dell is a well-known laptop brand that many people trust. They make laptops for students, everyday users, and especially for businesses. Dell has different kinds of laptops like Latitude, Vostro, Inspiron, and XPS, and each of them is good for different reasons. We picked some Dell laptops that we think are the best for businesses. If you’re looking for a new business laptop, keep reading to find out which Dell laptop might be perfect for you.

    Dell

    Dell Latitude 5540: The All-in-One Business Laptop
    The Latitude 5540 is our top pick for business because it’s like an all-in-one package. It does a lot of things really well, and the price is reasonable. It has a good camera for video meetings, and the battery can last up to 11 hours. Plus, it charges really fast, going from 0% to 35% in just 20 minutes.

    Dell Inspiron 14 2-in-1: Versatile and Comfortable
    The Inspiron 14 2-in-1 is special because it can transform into four different modes. You can use it like a regular laptop or flip it around to use it as a tablet. The large touchpad and Full HD touchscreen make it easy to work or play for hours comfortably.

    Dell XPS 17: Perfect for Content Creation
    If your business involves creating content, the Dell XPS 17 is a great choice. It’s a strong competitor to popular laptops like the MacBook Pro. The big 17-inch display can be upgraded to 4K resolution, making it excellent for video editing. With four Thunderbolt 4 ports, you can connect other devices easily.

    Dell Inspiron 16 Plus: Ideal for Remote Work
    The new Inspiron 16 Plus is perfect for remote work. Dell managed to fit a big 16-inch display into a size similar to the old 15-inch model, giving you more screen space. It’s powerful with an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, making it one of the best laptops for its price. The 16-inch screen has Full HD resolution for a clear and vibrant display.

    Dell XPS 13: Budget-Friendly Business Companion
    If you’re on a budget, the Dell XPS 13 is a great choice. It’s a popular laptop that’s been around for a while, and it still offers good portability and power. The InfinityEdge screen has Full HD resolution, and it has cool security features like a fingerprint reader. Even though it’s not the newest, the Dell XPS 13 can still get your work done well.