2. 20 Electronics and Appliances

3. Chapter Objectives Explain convergence and its impact on consumer electronic products and services. Define broadband and describe the pros and cons of several broadband delivery technologies. Evaluate telecommunications service providers. Compare similar electronic products and home appliances. continued

4. Chapter Objectives Identify reliable sources of information about consumer electronic products and appliances. Outline steps consumers can take to ensure online security and safety. Compare energy efficiency ratings of different home appliances and electronics. Describe some key causes of product obsolescence.

5. A Flood of New Products and Services Average number of consumer electronic devices in American homes –1–1.3 in 1975 – 25 in 2008 continued

6. A Flood of New Products and Services Technological change will result in obsolescence of many of today’s products and services Basic knowledge and careful planning can help you select those things you need and can afford New products often priced high, then drop; you can save money by waiting continued

7. A Flood of New Products and Services The many uses of a consumer electronic product: –c–communication –e–entertainment –e–education –i–information gathering continued

8. A Flood of New Products and Services Home appliances are electricity or gas- powered devices continued

9. A Flood of New Products and Services Telecommunication companies include Internet and telephone service providers Much of the sound, pictures, and data are created by mass communication companies –i–includes newspapers, books, television and radio programming

10. Convergence Convergence is combining several products into one Example: the smart phone continued

11. Convergence The distinction between goods and services is blurring as more products come bundled with services Business that once only sold products now also sell services to go along with the products

12. The 1996 Telecommunications Act Government regulation of telecom and mass communications used to restrict –t–types of services that different telecommunications industries could provide –n–number of mass communication outlets one company could own The 1996 law relaxed regulations continued

13. The 1996 Telecommunications Act Supporters believed the law would increase competition and lead to lower prices and better service for consumers Critics say it led to the creation of a few large companies that dominate the telecom and mass communication industries

14. Pros and Cons of Converged Products Ask yourself: –I–Is the device user- friendly? –D–Do I need all the functions? –D–Does the device require more energy to run? –I–Is the device more expensive to service?

15. Telecommunication Services There are many ways of transmitting information One company may use several different technologies Your choices may be limited depending on where you live

16. Wired Carriers Wired carriers transmit over networks of copper wires and cables Wireless carriers transmit –o–over radio waves –b–by bouncing signals off orbiting satellites Most companies combine wired and wireless

17. Dial-Up and DSL The first Internet service providers used phone lines to transmit information continued

18. Dial-Up and DSL Dial-up –u–uses a copper-wire phone line and a modem –i–is the cheapest and slowest Internet access –i–interferes with phone service Digital subscriber line (DSL) –u–uses wires or cable and a modem –p–provides faster Internet access –d–does not interrupt phone service

19. Broadband DSL is a type of Internet access called broadband, or high-speed Internet access What constitutes high speed varies The larger the bandwidth, the greater the amount of information that can be transmitted continued

20. Broadband Types of transmissions that require large bandwidths include –s–streaming video and audio –i–interactive television –t–two-way communication services The government and businesses are working to increase bandwidth and broadband speed in the U.S.

21. Cable and Satellite Program Distribution Programming that is broadcast through the air and using satellites is routed through cable into customers’ homes

22. Fiber Optic Cables Fiber optic cable carries data along glass strands at the speed of laser light beams continued

23. Fiber Optic Cables Transmission speed is very fast, but it can be costly for U.S. consumers to get connected Much of the U.S. copper wire network is being replaced with fiber optic cable

24. Direct Broadcast Satellite Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS) works by bouncing transmissions off orbiting satellites to satellite dishes on homes Global Positioning Systems (GPS) also utilize these satellites In remote and rural areas, this may be the only option

25. Wireless Carriers Companies providing cell phone, pager, and beeper services Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) and other technologies provide access to Internet broadband through many mobile devices

26. Questions for Service Providers Are they local, regional, or national? What services do they provide? continued

27. Questions for Service Providers Investigate the company’s reputation and record for –c–customer service –t–technical support –r–reliable performance and connectivity –u–user-friendly software and instructions continued

28. Questions for Service Providers How much will service cost—both initially and on a monthly basis? –C–Compare costs for different packages –A–Ask about fees and taxes Must additional equipment and software be purchased? Who pays for repairs?

29. Buying Consumer Electronics Today’s cutting- edge products will soon be obsolete Become informed before you buy

30. Computers Before shopping, know –h–how much you can spend –w–what you need a computer to do –w–where you will use it –w–which peripheral devices you need Read computer publications and manufacturer’s Web sites to learn about the latest developments

31. Desktop or Laptop Desktops: cheaper and can be upgraded; you will need a monitor, keyboard, and mouse Laptops and notebooks: portable, require little space to set up and store Netbooks: portable, limited functions

32. Basic Features The faster a computer can process data, the more it will probably cost Speed is determined by the amount of random access memory (RAM) and the power of the computer’s microprocessor RAM can usually be added at additional cost continued

33. Basic Features Most people buy computers with the most processing power they can afford Gamers and video editors often buy the fastest machines continued

34. Basic Features Software are computer programs that tell the computer functions to perform –O–Operating systems control a computer’s basic functions: creating files, storing data, manipulating working memory –S–Software applications are programs that perform specific tasks

35. Choosing Other Features Most computers include a modem, webcam, DVD burner, USB ports You may need additional features such as –W–Wi-Fi or other technology to access the Internet –a–advanced graphics and sound

36. Cell Phones Involves choosing a phone, service provider, and service plan Many are converged products

37. Cell Phone Features Text and multimedia messaging E-mail and Web browsing Instant messaging Music, video, and podcast downloads Camera GPS navigation Personal digital assistant continued

38. Cell Phone Features Thousands of software applications, called apps, are available for download from the Internet Apps allow you to customize electronic devices, including cell phones Most apps can be downloaded for a fee

39. Prepaid Phones Prepaid phones can be money savers, although cost per minute is usually higher continued

40. Prepaid Phones Advantages: –M–Minutes are purchased before they are used, making costs easier to control –N–No contracts to sign –S–Service can be ended at any time –N–No credit check required

41. Phone Billing Problems It pays to read your bills carefully because errors are common Check bills for fraud such as –c–cramming or unauthorized charges –s–slamming or unauthorized switch in service

42. Personal Media Players First personal media players played audio music files; other functions were added When shopping, consider features and –m–memory –c–compatibility –s–style, size, and ease of use –a–accessories

43. Personal Digital Assistants When buying, ask: –I–Is the PDA compatible with your computer? –C–Can you use the keyboard comfortably?

44. Televisions Pictures are sharper since –d–digital broadcasts became standard –h–high-definition TVs (HDTV) became popular Expanded capabilities include: Internet access, game playing, streaming video

45. Protecting Against Online Threats Online security is a serious problem for government, businesses, and individuals Number of cybercrimes committed is growing rapidly continued

46. Protecting Against Online Threats Types of online attacks include –v–viruses –w–worms –s–spyware infections –p–phishing and smishing –s–spam –T–Trojan horses –c–cyberbullying, cyberstalking, predators

47. What You Can Do Set up defenses: –a–anti-virus software –s–spam filter –f–firewall –a–adequate passwords –b–backup files –u–up-to-date software

48. Safeguard Personal Information Don’t disclose personal information including –y–your name, birth date, address, phone number, Social Security number –y–your parents’ names –p–photos of you, your family, friends –w–workplace or school names –a–account numbers and passwords continued

49. Safeguard Personal Information Check that a Web site store is secure and legitimate before you shop Don’t open e-mail from unknown senders Report suspicious requests for sensitive financial information and cybercrimes to authorities

50. Wi-Fi Security Issues Wireless networks pose additional security risks continued

51. Wi-Fi Security Issues Make sure your computer security and firewall software are adequate and current Check the safety of your browser Use complex passwords Disable file sharing on a mobile computer Limit activities in Wi-Fi hotspots

52. Buying Guidelines for Appliances and Consumer Electronics When choosing a store, consider –p–product selection and quality –a–after-purchase customer support and service –p–price –w–warranty provisions –r–return policies –d–delivery and installation charges continued

53. Buying Guidelines for Appliances and Consumer Electronics Appliance considerations: –C–Construction features; appliance should be sturdy and evenly balanced –H–Hard durable finish should not scratch or dent easily –S–Sturdy shelves with shelf supports –H–Handles and knobs should be firmly attached

54. Assessing Your Needs What size do you need? What are your installation limitations? continued

55. Assessing Your Needs What do you need the product to do? What safety and other features are important? Do you have the space required? Will the power source be appropriate and convenient to the product’s location?

56. Calculating Costs Based on your savings and budget, decide how much you can spend –W–Will you use credit or cash? –I–If you use credit, what will finance charges and monthly payments be? –H–How much will installation, servicing, and operation cost?

57. Researching the Market Information about products and services is provided by –m–manufacturers –r–retailers, government, trade associations, utility companies, and consumer groups –c–consumer publications Products with the most features usually cost more and cost more to run

58. Ease of Installation, Use, and Care Choose products with controls that are easy to read, understand, and operate continued

59. Ease of Installation, Use, and Care Look for easy care and cleaning features Ask to see a demonstration, if the appliance is already installed Make sure installation is performed by qualified service people

60. Energy Efficiency Consider energy efficiency and operating costs Energy-efficient products may cost more, but you save on utility bills, conserve resources, and generate less pollution Even when turned off, many devices draw electricity, so unplug them

61. EnergyGuide Label Compare EnergyGuide labels on appliances to see which are cheaper to operate

62. ENERGY STAR Label ENERGY STAR labels appear on appliances and home electronics that meet strict energy- and water-saving criteria The ENERGY STAR label appears on the EnergyGuide label when the product has one, or it may appear directly on the product or its packaging

63. Warranties and Service Contracts Compare warranty coverage between products Consider purchasing a service contract if you –m–move a lot and need installations and follow-up services with each move –w–will give an appliance heavy use

64. Product Safety Look for the UL seal of Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., which indicates that products were tested for safety Look for built-in safety features Keep products out of reach of children Use surge protectors continued

65. Product Safety Make sure appliances and power cords are in good condition Avoid using extension cords continued

66. Product Safety Turn off equipment before connecting or disconnecting Avoid overloading circuits Promptly call the gas company if you smell gas or suspect a leak

67. Product Servicing If repair cost is greater than the cost of a new model, buy the new product Keep paperwork including receipts, warranties, records of servicing; this information may be needed if you call for servicing Avoid unnecessary service calls

68. Finding Reliable Service Check product warranty for list of service centers Ask appliance dealers and people you know for recommendations Use local Better Business Bureau to check centers; if complaints were filed and unresolved, use someone else

69. Obsolescence Obsolescence benefits producers when consumers must buy replacements for broken or obsolete products Planned obsolescence is designing products to stop functioning after a certain amount of time or use Businesses hurt themselves by making poor-quality goods that consumers avoid

70. In Your Opinion Do you think planned obsolescence hurts companies more than it helps them? Why or why not?

71. Central Ideas of the Chapter Technological advances have created a steady stream of new consumer electronics and appliances. These goods and services can improve the ways people communicate, learn, spend their leisure time, and do business. However, consumers need to examine their needs and budgets before they spend their money.

72. Glossary of Key Terms bandwidth. The maximum amount of information that can be carried over an electronic cable or device at one time. broadband. High-speed Internet access that transmits data at speeds greater than 200 kilobits per second. consumer electronic product. Devices that run on electric current or batteries and are used for communication, entertainment, education, or information gathering. Back

73. Glossary of Key Terms convergence. The merging of separate devices, technologies, or industries into one. dial-up. Internet access through a telephone line using a modem in the computer. digital subscriber line (DSL). Internet access that uses a digital frequency that does not interfere with telephone service. Back

74. Glossary of Key Terms Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS). A type of television and Internet service that works by bouncing transmissions off orbiting satellites directly to receivers on customers ’ homes. EnergyGuide label. A label that lists the estimated annual cost of operating an appliance. Back

75. Glossary of Key Terms ENERGY STAR label. A program that is a voluntary partnership of the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency, product manufacturers, local utilities, and retailers. Its purpose is to encourage the purchase of energy-efficient consumer electronics and appliances. Back

76. Glossary of Key Terms fiber optics. Glass strands as narrow as a human hair that carry data at the speed of a laser light beam. firewall. A protection system to block unwanted e-mail, offensive Web sites, and potential hackers. high-definition TV (HDTV). Televisions that receive digital signals and display them as crisp images. Back

77. Glossary of Key Terms home appliances. Major or small devices that run on gas or electric current and perform a specific function in the home. mass communication. Device-dependent communications that reach large and dispersed audiences, including books, newspapers, magazines, radio, television, the Internet, movies, musical recordings, and video games. Back

78. Glossary of Key Terms obsolescence. The state of no longer being useful. prepaid phone. A type of phone service that you pay for before using instead of signing a contract and paying a monthly bill. software applications. Instructions written to direct a computer ’ s operations in performing specific tasks. Back

79. Glossary of Key Terms telecommunication. Communication at a distance, including phone and Internet. wired carriers. A network of copper wires, cables, and phone company switching centers that transmit signals. Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi). Wireless Internet broadband access that works by transmitting information using electromagnetic waves from radio towers. Back