The Vivo V40 Lite is not a mile different from its sister phones, it embodies a fusion of aesthetic brilliance and cutting-edge innovation in its design. According to the company, the V40 Lite is poised to become a symbol of style and a powerhouse of technology. Combining a chic design with groundbreaking AI camera features, it transcends the ordinary smartphone experience.

“Vivo V series has always been a trendsetter in the smartphone industry, serving as the perfect companion for our users around the clock,” said James Irungu, Brand and Communications manager at Vivo Kenya in a press statement. “We are eagerly anticipating the market’s response to the upcoming vivo V40 Lite.” He added, “At the core of our product design is a steadfast focus on user needs. We strive to make premium materials and cutting-edge innovations accessible to everyone.”

The Vivo V40 Lite is set to captivate the market with its fashionable sleek design, powerful performance, and advanced camera capabilities.

The V40 Lite will come with an AMOLED Display with a refresh rate of 120Hz, under the hood; a Snapdragon 685 Processor, Android 14 OS, 8GB RAM (which can be expanded to 16GB), 256GB onboard storage, and 5,000mAh battery support 80W fast-charge.

Despite its ultra-slim profile, vivo V40 Lite offers unparalleled durability, ensuring robustness for its users. The device boasts an IP64 Dust and Water Resistance, providing reliable protection against dust intrusion and accidental splashes. It also incorporates Wet-hand Touch Technology, ensuring that the phone remains responsive even when users interact with it while their hands are wet.

As the newest member of the vivo V series family, V40 Lite is poised to elevate photography to new heights. Armed with a 50 MP Main Camera, a 2MP Bokeh Camera, and the iconic AI Aura Light, the V40 Lite will be capable of crafting high-quality portraits with ease. The AI Aura Light Portrait feature is expected to help users capture stunning portraits in nighttime settings. The device incorporates a suite of AI-powered photography features, such as AI Erase for effortlessly removing unwanted elements and AI Photo Enhancement for boosting image clarity.

The rear camera setup and AI Aura Light are exquisitely crafted in a Cushion-Cut Diamond Camera Shape module, merging the softness of rounded edges with the precision of sharp geometric lines. This innovative design marks a bold step away from the V series’ signature rounded design, achieving a harmonious blend of modern innovation and enduring elegance. It promises to provide users with a revitalizing, premium visual experience.

The Vivo V40 Lite will be available in two colors; Titanium Silver and Emerald Green. It will be priced at around KSH30,000.

The post Vivo Set to Unveil a Lite Version of the V40 Smartphone in Kenya appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

A graphics card also referred to as a video card and is a printed circuit board containing the GPU and the Video Random Access Memory (VRAM). It produces and processes the result of images and video for display on a monitor. In the absence of a graphics card, a computer could only be capable of displaying simple forms of graphics.

The physical and structural make-up of a graphics card

A graphics card is a hardware accelerator with numerous chief modules that generate graphics that users witness. Let’s break down the main components:

• Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

The GPU is that tiny heart that powers each graphics card. It is a digital processer that was designed mainly for unusual computer graphics to be processed at high speeds. Today’s GPUs feature hundreds of cores and sometimes even thousands of cores that render great parallel computations.

• Video Memory (VRAM)

All the visible graphic content such as texture, models, or framebuffer is stored in the buffer memory that we call VRAM at a higher speed. This means that more VRAM facilitates quick retrieval of more graphic data by a particular graphics card. Typically today’s VRAM is ranging from 4-16 GB.

• Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC)

The DAC converts the digital signal that is bi-polar and two valued into an analog form for usage by the display devices. This enables visual output.

• Video BIOS

A video BIOS gets into some components within the card and it has low level software that are useful in the card’s basic operations.

• Outputs

HDMI, DVI, or VGA used to take graphics card output to displays, but that’s not as common anymore. Many cards include a number of ports to allow for different kinds of configurations.

• Cooling System

Graphics cards bring a lot of heat from the computations made on the card because of the graphics algorithms. The temperature is therefore controlled using heat sinks, heat pipes and multiple fans, rather than with critical temperature levels being reached. There are also such possibilities as, for instance, liquid cooling and vapor chambers.

Things to consider when selecting a graphics card

Deciding on what specific graphics card to purchase can often be a very challenging endeavor because of the large number of available units. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Usage

Decide why you want the card. High definition gaming, film editing, 3D designing and even data analysis requires more energy. For normal office use or simple operations where there will not be a lot of graphic software running, then integrated graphics will do.

• GPU

The GPU is the main single component on a graphics card and is typically described as defining it. Currently, there are two companies in the market that are major providers of GPUs: Nvidia and AMD. Find out which GPU will be the most suitable for your planned purpose and offer the most performance per dollar.

• VRAM

More VRAM means that a GPU can process more graphical data at once. More VRAM allows a GPU to fetch more graphical information concurrently. Four to eight gigabytes of VRAM are sufficient for 1080p gaming and twelve to sixteen gigabytes of VRAM are beneficial in 4K video editing.

• Outputs

Except check that your graphics card supports the type of connections to display(s) you want, HDMI 2.1 or DisplayPort 1.4, for example.

• Cooling System

Accurate airflow maintains a graphics card at specific temperatures in with demanding operations. That’s why, it is required to cool the cards well.

• Power Consumption

Some higher form factors need additional PCIe power connectors from your power supply unit. Check that it is suitable for the card and check the availability of extra PCIe connectors.

• Brand

Asus, MSI, Gigabyte, EVGA, and Zotac are some of the best workstation graphics cards, or rather their brands. They provide reliable and customer care services by working with their customers.

See also: Techie’s guide: How to choose the best laptop for yourself

Troubleshooting graphics card issues

Occasionally, you may encounter issues with your graphics card. Here are some common problems and troubleshooting steps:

No display: If your monitor displays no signal, then try updating your video card’s driver. Switch to Device Manager, right click the display adapter, select uninstall, reboot your computer, and update the necessary driver.

Artifacts on the screen: Dynamic objects such as flickers, a dot or lines on your screen may be pointing towards a faulty graphics card. You might give it a try to perform a clean driver installation after DDU that uninstalls the prior driver.

Game crashes or freezes: Some game issues may be attributed with graphics driver. After you apply DDU, you’ll need to let it uninstall your current driver to the best of its ability then, get the newest driver directly from the manufacturer.

Low frame rates: If you find ourself at a lower FPS simply reset you graphics settings or try a clean driver install. Experiences have also shown that it is possible to use the CPU load and temperature to diagnose performance problems.

BSOD (Blue Screen of Death): This is a critical system error that can be caused by various factors, including faulty hardware or driver conflicts. Try resetting a graphics card driver or reinstalling it. If the problem persists, it may indicate a hardware issue with the card.

The future of graphics cards

In the world of graphics cards, new technologies and innovations appear every single day. Here are some trends shaping the future of graphics cards:

Ray Tracing

This enhanced lighting approach creates natural light physics for a very realistic and extremely realistic effect. Nvidia RTX has its own ray tracing units incorporated in the graphics card. AMD also supports ray tracing. Someone expect it to bacterial vaginosis become more widespread.

Artificial Intelligence

Nvidia DLSS as well as the AMD FSR take advantage of artificial neural networks to increase the frame rate. Future advancement in using AI will improve the speed of rendering images as well as the quality of the images created.

Cloud Gaming

Companies such as Playgiga are making game streaming procedures in which you do not need a strong equipment at your home. Visuals are run on dedicated server computers that have GPUs. However, most mobile broadband services are still limited by maximum monthly transfer allowance also known as bandwidth caps.

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)

Consistent high frame rate stereo graphics quickly becomes a GPU resource-intensive process, driving the importance of VR headsets. Subsequent versions are likely to take things to the next level where GPUs are concerned. AR glasses are also set to enjoy evolutions in the graphics tech field.

Isolated to the graphics cards, innovation remains an unstoppable process, and the following innovations clearly stand for it. As GPUs grow ever more potent, greener, and intelligent year by year due to AI and micro-specialized cores, video games, artistic software, and tech applications in games, virtual Reality will come again to an entirely new visual level.

The post Unlocking the Power of Pixels: A Guide to Understanding Graphic Cards appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Vivo V40 is a top-tier flagship that seamlessly blends innovation with sophistication, boasting a sleek design, state-of-the-art photography features, a lasting battery, and an array of eye-catching colors. For consumers seeking professional-grade portrait photography, vivo V40 stands as an unparalleled choice.

“With the Vivo V40, we’ve focused on blending powerful mobile portrait photography, lasting battery performance, and sleek design to enhance the overall user experience,” said Mr. James Irungu, Brand and Communications Manager. “We partnered with ZEISS to co-engineer a professional-level portrait system that provides endless opportunities for creativity and self-expression. The long-lasting battery, effortless performance, immersive display, and intuitive interface ensure that users stay connected, productive, and entertained throughout their day.”

Specifications

The Vivo V40 is a Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by) and also supports eSIM or Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by). The phone comes with a 6.78-inches AMOLED, HDR10+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a screen resolution of 1260 x 2800 pixels, and its peak brightness reaches 4500 nits, 60.7% higher than the previous generation, providing a clear and vibrant display under bright sunlight.

Under the hood, the phone comes with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 (4 nm) chipset, an Octa-core processor, an Adreno 720 GPU, 12GB RAM (which can be virtually extended by another 12GB), and an onboard storage of 256GB. The phone runs on Android 14 coupled with Funtouch 14 and is powered by Li-Ion 5500 mAh, a non-removable battery that supports 80W wired fast charging —and also supports reverse wired charging. The vivo V40 is the slimmest vivo phone to date packing a huge battery, measuring 7.58 mm in thickness.

The device has IP68 and IP69 dust and water resistance, ensuring durability in various environments.

The vivo V40 has two 50 MP cameras on the back and at the front a 50MP shooter as well. All the cameras can record up to 4K at 30fps. The cameras are the main focus of the phone. It is attentively engineered for professional-level portrait photography, meeting the high standards jointly defined by Vivo and ZEISS. This will allow users to capture stunning portraits and videos with cinematic quality —even in low-light conditions, as claimed by the company. The cameras have Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) that reduces blur, achieving consistently sharp and bright images.

The V40 offers a variety of ZEISS Style Bokeh effects, all expertly designed to give user portraits a unique and refined visual appeal. Building on this foundation, the AI Aura Light Portrait feature offers professional lighting, perfect for low-light portrait photography. The upgraded AI 3D Studio Lighting enhances image quality with precise and natural fill light, making it ideal for indoor and backlit scenarios.

The V40 doesn’t come with an audio jack. In terms of communications; it supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band, Bluetooth V5.4, NFC, and USB Type-C 2.0.

Availability, price, and color

The Vivo V40 is available for purchase at KSH64,999 —and comes in two color variants; Moonlight White; a soft mix of blue and white with an Anti-Fingerprint Coating, and Stellar Silver; an elegant shade featuring AG technology for enhanced scratch and fingerprint resistance.

See also: Infinix records impressive 18.8% growth in global smartphone shipments for Q2 2024

The post Vivo V40 Launched in Kenya: Price, Specs, and Availability appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

“Tecno’s ethos has always been to create an exceptional range of products and services that meaningfully improve people’s lives. With the advent of AI we are committed to becoming a leader in this field, ” said Timmy Shen, Tecno Brand Manager.

As the company celebrated its 16th anniversary in Africa, a heritage they say “they’re so proud of” —Shen noted that much of their product innovation stems from listening to their customers. “We are excited to hear what our customers think of our latest AI-powered devices and services —and we will stop at nothing in our ambition to be the brand people trust to deliver true innovation.”

Among the devices the company launched today —powered by artificial intelligence include the Phantom V Series; which was the headliner of the launch, Tecno Spark 30S; an addition to the Spark series, MEGABOOK T16 series laptops; which according to the company offers top-tier performance with AI tools to boost productivity, MEGAPAD 10 tablet, MEGA MINI Gaming G1 water-cooled mini PC, Pocket Go; a mimic of VR-gaming, Sonic 2 noise-canceling earbuds, and Dynamic 1; german shepherd-inspired robotic dog.

Without a doubt, the product lineup was impressive —showcasing Tecno’s comprehensive innovation across hardware and software, with breakthroughs in areas such as productivity, creativity, connectivity, photography, performance, and design, delivering smarter, more connected experiences for users. They come with the company’s AI Assistant, Ella which is built on Google Gemini —which offers text generation and creative tools —and other key AI features including Smart Q&A, AI photo editing, AI writing, AI search, AI artboard, and AI video production, etc., all designed to streamline tasks and enrich everyday experiences.

Tecno gave a chance to all attendees to try out all these products —and effective Friday, they are available for purchase except for Dynamic 1.

The Phantom V Series

Tecno began by launching the Phantom V series as the event’s main headliner. The new phones; the Phantom V Flip2 and the Phantom V Fold2 are the second in the series and they come with some minor upgrades and improvements compared to their predecessors that were launched last year in September —the biggest upgrade is that both phones come with the maker’s own AI Suite —making them the first devices to have the features straight out of the box.

The Phantom V Fold2 evolves from its predecessor while keeping some key specs, like the Mediatek Dimensity 9000+ —good for gaming “somewhat”, the 7.85-inch inner screen, and the 6.42-inch cover AMOLED display. The big change is the body, which is about 6.1 mm thin when unfolded and under 12 mm when folded. Despite the increased battery size, the phone has lost a lot of weight —from 299g to 249g — as we know weight is a strong factor when it comes to a phone.

Under the hood, the Fold2 comes with Android 14 coupled with HiOS 14, an Octa-core processor, 12GB RAM; which can be expanded virtually, and onboard storage of 512GB. The phone comes with a 5,750mAh battery and supports 70W wired and 15W wireless charging.

The Phantom V Fold2 has an Ella AI assistant, powered by Google Gemini. The AI features Smart Q&A (a chatbot for real-time answers), AI Summary to use in PDFs and webpages, AI Translation with live translation during calls, and AI Writing for text summary, creative writing, proofreading, and rewriting capabilities. Some other features that will utilize the big screen are AI Artboard, which turns scribbles into drawings, and AI Wallpaper, which allows users to create a wallpaper from a simple text prompt. Tecno is also using AI to boost its Universal Tone Technology, which accurately captures diverse skin tones in photos.

For the imaging and optics, the camera island on Fold2 has been completely redesigned. The island is much neater and clearer replacing the trypophobia-inducing look of last year’s Fold. On the island sits a trio camera setup with a 50MP sensor for three cameras; the main wide, an ultra-wide shooter, and a portrait lens. On the front, there are two 32 MP selfie cameras behind punch holes —one on the cover screen and the other on the inner screen. This makes the Phantom V Fold2 boast a 5-lens camera system with ultra-clear low-light shooting and professional portrait features like Universal Tone for accurate skin tones.

For the availability, price, and color; the phone is available for purchase in all Tecno stores countrywide, and at authorized phone dealers and comes in two color options; Karst Green and Rippling Blue. The phone is priced at UGX4,300,000.

The Phantom V Flip2 on the other side also comes with some upgrades —one being a big cover screen with a resolution of 1,056 x 1,056 instead of the small circle first seen in the Phantom V Flip. The 3.64″ square panel uses most of the cover and wraps around the cameras. Bruce Dickson, Tecno’s Product Consultant in his presentation noted that the cover screen can support over 200 apps to “make life easy for users who often don’t even need to open up the main screen. The main screen is 6.9-inch LTPO AMOLED with Full HD+ resolution.

Unlike the Fold, the Flip did not see any significant changes in weight or size—it is still a sub-200 gr foldable—7.6 mm thin when unfolded and 16 mm thin when folded.

Under the hood, the Flip2 comes with Android 14 coupled with HIOS 14, a Mediatek Dimensity 8020 chipset, an Octa-core processor, 8GB RAM which can be virtually expanded, and 256GB onboard storage. The phone comes with a 4,720 mAh battery, which is one of the biggest cells among flip foldables. Tecno claims the 70W charging provides 50% charge in 15 minutes and a full battery in 50 minutes.

The Flip2 comes with dual cameras on the back, and both have 50 MP sensors. Tecno also placed one selfie camera on the inner screen with a 32 MP sensor and autofocus.

The Phantom V Flip2 has all the AI features in the Fold2; AI Translation, AI Writing, the voice assistant Ella, and others.

For the availability, price, and color; the phone is available for purchase in all Tecno stores countrywide, and at authorized phone dealers and comes in two color options; Travertine Green and Moondust Grey. The phone is priced at UGX2,600,000.

Tecno Camon 30S

Tecno also unveiled two new additions to the Spark series; the Camon 30S and Camone 30S Pro. The new variants are an addition to the 5 models that the company unveiled in September —which now brings the total of the Spark 30 series to 7 devices. There was no comment as to why they were launched separately.

The devices don’t differ that much by specs. In similarity, both devices are powered by Tecno’s AI; Ella, Dual SIM, IP53 certified; dust and splash resistant, AMOLED display with a refresh rate of 12oHz, and a screen resolution of 1080 x 2436 pixels. Both have a screen size of 6.78 inches and have Corning Gorilla Glass protection.

Under the hood, they both come with Mediatek Helio G100 (6 nm) chipset; which is good enough for high performance (for a phone in its bracket), an Octa-core processor, Mali-G57 MC2 GPU, and runs on the Android 14 operating system which is coupled with HIOS 14. They are powered by a 5,000mAh battery and unlike the which supports 33W wired charging, the Pro version supports 45W wired charging and 20W wireless charging. As advertised by the company, the wired charging on both devices can fill up the phone from 0-100% in 45 minutes.

The cameras are the same as well; a duo rear setup, 50MP (wide) + 2MP (depth), and as for the front-facing camera, a 13MP sensor.

There’s no earphone jack.

In terms of storage, unlike the Pro version that comes with 8GB and 256GB onboard storage, the 30S comes with the same version as the Pro but with two more storage options; 6GB RAM + 128GB, and 8GB RAM + 128GB 8GB.

For pricing, colors, and availability, the phones are available for purchase starting at UGX798,000 for the Camon 30 and UGX978,000 for the Camon 30S Pro. The Camon 30S comes in Nebula Violet, and Blue color options while the Pro version comes in Interstellar Grey, Pearl Gold, and Shim Silver Green colors.

The post Tecno Launches AI-Driven Flagship Devices, Including Phantom V Series 2 and a Robot Dog appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Rhino shield grip: Secure and stylish phone accessory

If you’ve ever dropped your phone, which I know you have, you’ll want to consider getting yourself a Rhino Shield Grip. It is designed for MagSafe but any phone with this stick-on option can be supported —allowing you to comfortably hold your phone one-handed. It also doubles as a stand to admire nature’s beauty or in portrait mode when you need to be hands-free, which makes it great for FaceTiming or daily vlogs too.

So, in 2024, don’t worry, the MagSafe version is strong enough to handle your daily tossing and turning. But do remember, it is still magnets, so if you’re looking for something a little more permanent and to avoid dropping your phone at all costs, there is the stick-on option, perfect for any hard shell case with a smooth back. Once you smack it in place, it’s not going anywhere. Plus, when not in use, it’s about the thickness of two credit cards, making it feel natural when you slide it in and out of your pockets.

Now, if you have your fancy case and don’t want to cover up too much, they also have the Grip Mini, which comes in several designs to choose from as well. Pick a spot, choose a direction, and it will be secure with plenty of angles for your fingers to sit comfortably in. Better yet, you can pair it with its MagSafe clear cases and lanyard attachment, so even if you manage to let go, it’ll land safely on this loaf of bread that I call abs.

The designs they come in are the funniest part though, with collabs, custom artwork, or my favorite, matte black everything. Not only are these also made of 85% recycled bottles, but the packaging is also recyclable, and the grip tape is reusable, so you can pick up a few designs and swap them out when you get bored.

Use the code in the description to save a few extra dollar bills! At Technologenic you can read engaging articles.

Booyti 9-in-1 adapter: Ultimate cable solution

If you never seem to have the right cable on you, then the Booyti 9-in-1 adapter is the only stick of gum you’ll need to remember to take with you. Not only does opening and closing it make you feel like a total spy, but its metal casing is something James Bond would use too. Minimal branding, all-black design, and this sick pullout method are just bonuses. It has slots for microSD cards on the inside, adapter heads for every type of plug, and a whole USB-C cable tucked in there too.

However, if you plug the cable into the adapter itself, slide one of the microSD cards in, and plug that bad boy in, it’s also a microSD card reader. What can’t this do? Well, maybe not save the world, but it may save you trying to hand in the assignment right before a deadline. Better yet, not having to carry another long cable in your pockets for every single device is worth it alone. Plus, there’s a hidden SIM card ejector too, because why not at this point? Everything neatly tucks back into its dedicated slot, and you can toss this into your bag without having to worry you may have forgotten something. Unfortunately, you’ll probably still forget your keys anyway.

Scotch brite mini travel lint roller: Keep your clothes neat

The Scotch Brite Mini Travel Lint Roller. Yeah, unfortunately, you need to lint roll your damn clothes, especially if you wear all black. This stores away at the size of a cannoli. The best part is when you store it back away, it saves the current roll and can be used another day. And while it’s all plastic, it still feels sturdy, something you probably never thought you’d care about for a lint roller.

OXO sweep and swipe laptop cleaner: Maintain your devices

This cute little package is like what a mop is to a floor or a dust buster to your high school trophies. It’s got a retractable soft brush on one end, which feels like it’s made of a teddy bear, and on the opposite end, a microfiber cloth with sharp ends for those tricky corners. But those cute little crumbs are a no-go. That’s where the Sweep and Swipe shines.

Flicker lighter case: Functional and fun

If you already carry a lighter with you, this is a no-brainer. Keeping my fingers busy is the Flicker Lighter Case. Don’t worry, it doesn’t block or stop you from being a pyromaniac, but it does add this knob, a free-spinning axle smack dab in the middle. Not only does it align perfectly to spin around, but it’s also designed to fit the Bic lighter design, which can be had for a low price for free when you borrow it from a friend and never return it.

Although it’s plastic, it’s thick enough that it doesn’t feel cheap. They do come in different designs, but blackout everything is a vibe. The lighter is friction-fit and clipped in place, so it isn’t going anywhere.

Hero clip carabiner: Essential EDC accessory

Everyone should have this carabiner by now the Hero Clip is the quintessential EDC accessory. In its mini size, it operates as a regular clip to hold onto things but also includes a second hook on a free-spinning handle. So for the times that you drink one too many coffees and need to rush into a public washroom, you no longer have to set your bag down on those grimy, wet floors. You’ll always have a bag hanger with you.

It’s also good to hang anything you’re too lazy to hold for yourself.

They come in a few sizes and colors, like this yellow and orange one that makes me feel a little like Iron Man.

Tinker force attachments: Organized and modular

You probably never thought to carry this, but they’re durable, affordable, and with the Tinker Force attachments, really organized too. They have 3D-printed inserts to fit inside the tin, like the size of an Altoid box, so not only are your candies protected from banging around the metal, but they don’t have to touch your other food either.

I opted for the Velcro patch attachment on the front, it is perfect if you like to glam it up. But the best part is how modular it is on the inside, as it includes these four wall strips that you can move around into any of the cutout slots. So it’s great as a mini tech organizer or to carry your daily essentials.

The post 7 Gadgets Under $20 You Should Consider Buying appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Here are eight tips to make sure your printer works according to your expectations. From routine cleaning to maintenance, and troubleshooting of common problems, these practical steps will help you to get full advantages from your printer and reduce its downtime.

How to Keep Your Printer Running Smoothly?

1. Regular cleaning

To keep the printer running smoothly and efficiently, it’s important to regularly remove dust and debris from both the inside and outside. This can be done by wiping with a soft cloth that doesn’t shed lint. Make sure to turn off the power before cleaning any parts to prevent electrical mishaps. It’s also beneficial to remove dust from areas like paper trays and rollers, as this can help prevent paper jams and enhance the quality of prints.

2. Use high-quality ink and paper

Investments in top-notch ink and paper can significantly improve a printer’s durability and performance over time. Subpar materials might lead to printhead blockages or paper jams. Using authentic ink cartridges along with the suggested paper varieties guarantees printing and less strain on the device. Despite the allure of options, they usually end up incurring more expenses through necessary repairs and replacements. In such a scenario, professional HP printhead can be a great option.

3. Update firmware and drivers

Manufacturers often provide firmware and driver updates to address issues and improve performance while introducing features to their products. Regularly checking for these updates will ensure that a printer operates with the most recent enhancements. Installing updates is typically easy through the manufacturer’s website or dedicated software. Maintaining current firmware and drivers helps prevent compatibility problems and optimize efficiency.

4. Avoid overloading paper trays

Loading too much paper in the trays can cause jams and feeding issues, especially if you don’t follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how much paper to put in each tray to keep things running smoothly. It’s important to distribute the paper and not mix different types or sizes in one tray. Also, make sure the paper is aligned correctly before printing to reduce the chances of jams occurring.

5. Conduct routine maintenance

Printers typically include maintenance features meant to ensure they remain in top-notch shape over time. It is recommended that features like HP printhead cleaning and alignment be used to effectively uphold the quality of printed materials. For maintenance routines and guidelines tailored to your printer model and usage frequency, consult the user manual diligently. Keeping up with these upkeep tasks diligently can extend the lifespan of your device while also preventing any printing problems from arising.

6. Use the printer regularly

Using the printer infrequently can lead to ink drying up and causing blockages in the printhead. Printing a test page regularly can keep the ink flowing and prevent blockages. When a printer is not used for periods, consider running a maintenance cycle to maintain its functionality. Regular use of the printer ensures that it performs reliably when needed.

7. Handle paper jams carefully

Dealing with paper jams can lead to more issues if not handled correctly. To prevent damage to the printer’s parts, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when clearing jams. Switch off the printer. Delicately extract the stuck paper while making sure no shreds are left behind. Being patient and handling it gently can avoid any complications.

8. Seek professional help when needed

At times, and despite our attempts to avoid them, problems may surface that necessitate the expertise of professionals. Engaging repair services can be a time-saving measure that prevents potential escalation of issues. Experienced technicians possess the skills and equipment to identify and resolve intricate problems effectively. Routine professional maintenance is also beneficial in preserving the printer’s functionality and prolonging its longevity.

Keeping your printer in shape and making it last longer requires regular cleaning, using good supplies, and staying on top of maintenance tasks. The above helpful suggestions can guarantee smooth functionality and prolonged lifespan for the device by being proactive in preventing common problems and ensuring consistently excellent print results. Properly taking care of your printer not only boosts its performance but also saves you time and money over time.

The post 8 Ways to Keep Your Printer Running Smoothly appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

ZEISS has been developing the most advanced imaging technologies, some of which are breakthroughs for photography and cinematography. As an imaging pioneer, ZEISS inspires generations to see beyond, enabling countless iconic images —from Oscar-winning films to humanity’s first steps on the moon.

The collaboration between vivo and ZEISS will bring an outstanding imaging system to vivo V40, empowering users to capture high-quality visuals with sophistication. The groundbreaking ZEISS All Main Camera brings the refinement of a pro-level cinematic look and feel into your pocket.

James Irungu, Vivo Kenya Brand and Communications, said that since the end of 2020, Vivo has embarked on a global strategic partnership in imaging innovation with ZEISS. “Our collaboration encompasses in-depth research and development, joint product creation, and cultural branding efforts,” he said —adding “Now, V series users can also enjoy the thrill of professional portrait creation as the collaboration between vivo and ZEISS extends to V40, bringing top-tier mobile photography capabilities to a wider audience than ever before.”

The latest vivo V40, co-engineered with ZEISS, exemplifies Vivo’s persistent pursuit of professional portrait photography.

Vivo is continuously raising the standard for smartphone portrait photography tracks, aiming to provide every user with cinematic quality for personal creation and expression in the mobile imaging era. V40 will incorporate the ZEISS Cinematic Portrait Video feature to elevate users’ mobile videography experience to new heights.

With ZEISS Focus Transition and ZEISS Cinematic Video Bokeh, users can expect to capture professional-grade videos with stunning bokeh effects and smooth focus transitions with ease. V40 will introduce ZEISS Style Bokeh, which adds portraits with a distinct character, unlocking a world of creative possibilities and professional-grade results.

Furthermore, vivo remains committed to exploring the boundaries of smartphone portrait photography, driven by a determination to empower users to capture stunning portraits. A hallmark of the V series, the Aura Light Portrait has been completely revamped in the upcoming V40, delivering a brighter Aura Light for improved illumination. V40 is set to introduce AI 3D Studio Lighting, a feature that utilizes advanced AI algorithms for 3D facial light recognition. This technology enhances lighting in challenging conditions, providing precise illumination to shadowy areas and creating an even, three-dimensional effect.

Beyond advanced imaging capabilities, V40 will redefine perceptions of stylish slim smartphones. The phone will come in captivating color options; Moonlight White, and Stellar Silver, and according to the company, it will allow users to showcase their style effortlessly.

The V40 is equipped with a 5,500 mAh battery offering long-lasting power and challenging the traditional notion that large-capacity batteries result in bulky devices. V40 is backed by 80W FlashCharge for rapid recharges. The actual charging power is dynamically adjusted as the scenario changes, and subject to actual use.

The phone has been tested under controlled laboratory conditions and is rated as IP68 and IP69 under IEC standard 60529. The resistance to splashes, water and dust is not permanent and may be reduced due to daily use.

The phone will be launched on October 14th in the Kenyan market. “The Vivo V40 is about to debut, and this revolutionary device will transform how you record life, empowering everyone to become the director of their own story,” said Irungu.

The post Vivo V40 Release Date in Kenya Announced, its Cameras are Co-engineered With ZEISS appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

If you want to know what SSD to install, if you search KingSpec m.2 nvme ssd 2230 you should be able to find what you want. One acquired, the good news is that installing an SSD is a straightforward process.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through the installation process.

1. Start by backing up your data

Make sure to back up all your important files before you start the installation of your SSD. If you’re replacing an old hard drive, you’ll want to transfer any necessary data to an external storage device or cloud service. This ensures that none of your files are lost during the transition, especially if you’re doing a clean install of the operating system.

2. Get all of the necessary tools together

Installing an SSD typically requires just a few basic tools. You will likely need a suitable screwdriver, A SATA cable, if it’s not already included with the SSD, and an external SSD enclosure or USB-to-SATA cable. This is optional but is useful for cloning data from your old drive.

3. Power down and disconnect your computer

Shut down your computer completely, then unplug it from the power source.

4. Open the computer case

Check where your drive is located and how to access it. Some devices have dedicated panels for accessing the storage drive, while others may require removing the entire bottom cover.

5. Locate the drive bay and SATA port

On a desktop, locate the drive bay where the SSD will be installed. Laptops typically have a 2.5-inch slot ready for the SSD. Once located, find an available SATA port on your computer’s motherboard. The SSD will connect to both the SATA data port and the power connector.

6. Install the SSD

For desktops, insert the SSD into the drive bay and secure it with screws if necessary, then connect the SATA data cable to the SSD and the other end to the motherboard’s SATA port. As for the laptops, slide the SSD into the 2.5-inch slot, ensuring that the connectors line up properly with the built-in SATA and power port.

7. Reassemble your computer and boot it up

Once the SSD is securely installed, reassemble your PC or laptop. Plug the computer back in and turn it on. The SSD should be recognized by the system automatically.

8. Install or clone your operating system

If you’re replacing an old drive, you’ll need to install a fresh copy of your operating system on the SSD. Use a bootable USB drive with your OS installation files to do this. Alternatively, if you want to clone your existing hard drive’s data to the new SSD, you can use disk cloning software like Macrium Reflect or Acronis True Image.

See also: How to install an operating system on a PC (Windows, Mac, and Linux)

9. Set the SSD as the boot drive

If your system has multiple storage drives, go into your computer’s BIOS settings to set the SSD as the primary boot drive. Restart the computer and press the designated key to access the BIOS. Then select the SSD as the first boot device.

Once you have followed all of these steps, you should be good to go with your newly installed SSD.

The post Upgrading Your PC: A Step-By-Step Guide on How to Install an SSD appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

“The Spark 30 Series is poised to revolutionize the smartphone experience, offering a symphony of unparalleled features and a coveted exclusive Transformers Edition,” said Jack Guo, General Manager of Tecno Mobile. “With continuous enhancements to the SPARK Series, we ensure that vibrant, tech-savvy youth embrace and revel in the power of our innovations to create new possibilities.”

Complementing its ultimate performance, the Tecno Spark 30 Series features a trendy, sleek, and tech-infused design. The Spark family’s signature large circular design is now enhanced and refined for a more streamlined appearance. With a 7.4mm ultra-thin body, the Spark 30 Pro embraces the emerging minimalist technology trend, bringing an unprecedented grip experience in hand. With evolved Magic Skin 3.0, it provides a blend of soft plush and premium leather with an ultra-refined texture.

Taking inspiration from the unstoppable Transformers robots, Optimus Prime and Bumblebee, the Spark 30 Series Transformers Edition infuses technology with a Cybertronian-inspired design texture. The integrated DECO design is crafted with a metallic sheen and precision color coordination, adding a vibrant look while paying homage to the resilience of the iconic characters. Additionally, the edition debuts a customized interface adorned with Transformers motifs, bringing the iconic world to life and providing a dynamic platform for users of all ages to express their love for the franchise.

The Spark 30 Series comes with onboard storage of up to 256GB and RAM of 8GB that can be extended up to 16GB. The Spark 30 has a 6.78-inch 90Hz FullHD+ screen with 800 nits peak brightness and support for wet and oily touch. It also has a centered punch-hole for the 13MP selfie camera while on the other hand, the pro version has a 6.78-inch AMOLED with FullHD+ resolution, up to 120Hz refresh rate, and 1,700 nits peak brightness. The pro also has a 13 MP selfie camera under a punch hole.

As for the rear cameras, the Spark 30 comes with 64MP while the Pro comes with a 108MP primary camera, and the other is called “AI Camera,” likely a depth sensor that assists with background blur in portrait photos. Equipped with Tecno AI, the Spark 30 Series offers advanced AI-driven features, including AIGC portrait, AI Eraser, and AI Artboard, enhancing your productivity and creativity.

The Spark 30 Pro is powered by a MediaTek Helio G100 SoC and the Spark 30 is powered by Helio G91 SoC. The smartphones run Android 14 coupled with the company’s HIOS.

The series is equipped with exceptional battery capacity, impressive storage, and powerful performance, and according to the company the phones have a battery health of 80%+ enduring after 1,000 charge cycles. While both smartphones come with a 5,000 mAh battery, the Spark 30 supports 18W charging and the Pro version supports up to 33W fast charging. According to the company, the Pro version’s convenient 33W Fast Charge offers 3 intelligent charging modes and can charge the device from 0-100% in approximately 70 minutes.

Led by the masterful Spark 30 and Spark 30 Pro, the new Spark 30 Series also features the exceptional Spark 30C, Spark 30 5G, and Spark 30C 5G. The Transformers edition of the Spark 30 and Spark 30 Pro have two different paint jobs. Tecno gave the Spark 30 a black and yellow Bumblebee-inspired look, while the Spark 30 Pro comes in Blue, Red, and Silver, which are the colors of Optimus Prime.

Tecno stated in a press release that its partnership with Hasbro, the company that holds the rights for Transformers, aims to add a “layer of excitement for energetic youth.” The phone will come with exclusive branded merchandise and gift sets.

The post Tecno Spark 30 Series Debuts: 5 Models, 5-Year Lag-Free Guarantee, and a Transformers Edition Twist appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Infinix Zero Flip is expected to be unveiled soon as the company officially teased its arrival via X, however, the launch date and availability details weren’t revealed. Ahead of anything concrete, alleged promotional images of the foldable smartphone have surfaced online. The images suggest the design of the phone alongside some key features such as it will come with 8GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. It will also have two vertically aligned cameras integrated into cutouts from a big square cover display.

Promotional images of the handset have been leaked in a Facebook post by Queen Mobile, a Vietnam-based retailer. The phone is expected to come in Titanium Black and Pink colors —and per leaked images, the phone could have a 6.7-inch full-HD+ AMOLED main screen and a 3.64-inch AMOLED cover display. Both displays are tipped to support a 120Hz refresh rate and Corning Gorilla Glass protection.

The Infinix Zero Flip 5G will be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8020 SoC. It is expected to run on Android 14-based XOS 14.5 powered by a non-removable 4,590mAh battery with 70W wired fast charging support. Connectivity options of the phone are expected to include 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, and NFC.

The handset is expected to carry dual stereo speakers with support for DTS, Hi-Res Audio, and TUV certification.

For optics, the Infinix Zero Flip will likely be equipped with a dual rear camera unit, including a 50-megapixel primary sensor and a 10.8-megapixel secondary sensor. The front camera is tipped to house a 12-megapixel sensor. The front and rear cameras are said to support 4K 30 FPS video recording.Preview (opens in a new tab)

These are all the specs that have been outed so far. Since Infinix plays the mid-range game, don’t expect this one to come with a flagship chipset or a high price.

The post Infinix Mobile Teases The Arrival of its First Foldable Smartphone, the Infinix Zero Flip appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.