Tired of pre-configured off the shelf computer systems? Then listen up. In this episode, Steve shows off two computers by Alienware that have personality and power. The desktop and laptop come equipped with the gamer in mind. Both use high-powered processers, state of the art video cards and tons of memory. Steve walks you through the customizing and ordering process at Alienware’s website.

Satellite Radio has become more portable than ever with the Sirius Stiletto. There are no longer any problems moving your satellite radio from your house to your car. No messy antenna setups. The Stiletto allows you to connect to Wi-Fi making it easy to use in your home. It also comes with a pair of headphones with a built in satellite antenna, so you can use it anywhere. 

Steve also shows you some very useful tricks and tips with Microsoft Word.

On this edition of Urban Upgrade, we walk you through setting up your audio system.

Original Airdate: October 10, 2007

Steve explores Vista, Microsoft’s latest operating system.  Steve looks at some of the new built-in features and looks at some of Vista’s improvements in terms of getting connected and protecting your computer. On Tech Toys Caroline looks at SmartShopper, a high tech way of creating your weekly grocery list.

Original Airdate: January 26, 2008

Feeling overwhelmed with the task of maintaining & protecting your PC?  Steve will take you through Windows Live One Care, a new approach to protection for your computer that's more than just anti-virus software.  Windows Live OneCare will care for all your security and maintenance issues in one easy to manage, and easy to use convenient package.

Steve will also look at a few tools and techniques to help you increase your productivity.  He shows us the difference between the most common email technologies, demonstrates the advantages and disadvantages of such options as POP and web based mail, and helps us choose the best option for our particular lifestyle.  Once you have an email system in place, Steve walks you the next step, choosing a calendar and explains why you need to back it up.  

Original Airdate: October 20, 2007

Steve explores Vista, Microsoft’s latest operating system. Vista has a whole new look with a lot of new built-in features. Steve explores Vista’s communication tools - from mail to messaging to web communications and finds that Vista is a huge step forward in staying connected. Vista has also taken measures in protecting your computer with its Certified for Vista program which assures you will get the most out of your investment in hardware and software.

Caroline prepares for a visit to the grocery store with the Smartshopper,  a digital shopping list maker. Simply press record and say the name of the item you want and Smartshopper’s voice recognition program will enter the item. Smartshopper then saves your grocery list so you can add items throughout the week. When it’s time to head off to the grocery store simply hit print and get a totally legible shopping list. The Smartshopper can even sort your list into logical categories for convenient shopping, so no more back tracking at the store because you forgot an item.

From phones to instant text messaging to video chat, the internet continues to evolve our communication landscape. Steve explains the cost-saving benefits of VOIP, as well as Microsoft's Lifecam webcam, and social networking. Caroline's got the ultimate Tech Toy for serious gamers; custom gaming keyboards by zBoard.

HP OfficeJet

This week we have a tool for you small/medium office users out there, an amazing tool! The moto of this baby is "get more work done for less". The HP OfficeJet 9100 series is a cost-effective, colour multifunction that also offers digital sending and networking features for high workload demands in small offices. Support productive workgroups with this up to 25/22 (black/colour) ppm office all-in-one designed to grow with your business, and equipped with the HP Embedded Web Server for simplified network management. Decrease office workgroup printing and imaging costs by replacing single-function devices with five-functions for printing, faxing, scanning, copying, and digital sending.