Computer users shouldn't brush off latest virus alert

Article Abstract:

Michelangelo, the computer virus, is set to strike on Mar 6, which is the birthdate of Michelangelo Buonarroti. This is a particularly destructive virus that destroys all data on a hard disk. It is not transmitted, as many other viruses are, via networks or bulletin boards. Instead, it conceals itself on floppy disks and moves to a hard disk when a microcomputer is 'booted.' Michelangelo is said to have been discovered on some commercially sold disks. Two things can be done to protect against Michelangelo: back up data on a hard disk; and use an anti-virus program. Anti-virus software must be new enough to cover Michelangelo, which was only identified in the summer of 1991. Another way to foil Michelangelo would involve resetting a microcomputer's internal clock to read Mar 7, avoiding the date that activates the infection. Companies that publish anti-virus programs include Symantec, Microcom and Central Point Software. McAfee Associates publishes a noncommercial package, which is available on bulletin boards.

Safety and security measures, Microcomputers, Prevention, Computer viruses, Data security, Virus

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PC users can benefit and foster innovation by buying 'shareware.' (Personal Technology)(Column) (Buyers Guide)

Article Abstract:

Microcomputer owners who find that software is unexpectedly expensive can save money by purchasing 'shareware.' Such programs are sold on the honor system. Users who try shareware programs and decide to keep them are asked to send a relatively small amount to the program's author. Payments typically range between $10 and $50. Shareware programs, generally speaking, are dependable, practical products. Some users are anxious about the possibility of introducing viruses into their systems, but many sources of shareware routinely screen their programs. Paying for shareware is good for the software industry, encouraging innovation and broadening the base of available programs. Shareware can be obtained through computer bulletin boards or commercial on-line services. There are also books about shareware that come with programs on disks.

Purchasing, Buyers Guide, Shareware, Shareware (Software), Purchases, Guidelines

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Fine printers offer little to users who stick to text

Article Abstract:

A new generation of laser printers offers vastly improved resolution and print speed at reasonable prices. For users who mostly print out text, though, the switch may not be worth it. The new machines print 600 dots per inch (dpi), up markedly from the 300-dpi norm of the previous generation. HP's new 600-dpi LaserJet 4 supports only IBM-compatible PCs and sells at discount for about $1,400; the company's new LaserJet 4M supports both IBM compatibles and Apple Macintoshes and sells for about $2,000. Each machines features built-in PostScript, lots of built-in fonts and a 250-sheet feeder. Each can print on envelopes and can print as many as eight pages per minute, and each is rated a good buy for users with lots of graphics output. Apple's new LaserWriter Pro 600 and 630 both sell for about $2,000; these were not evaluated.

Computer peripheral equipment, not elsewhere classified, Evaluation, Product information, Hewlett-Packard Co., HWP, Laser printers, Laser Printer, High Resolution, HP LaserJet 4 (Laser printer), HP LaserJet 4M (Laser printer)

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