10 Ways to Get Technically Caught Up in 2010

It is now 2010 and technology continues to amaze me. We now hear terms such as "social media," "mashup," "interactive website" and "smartphone," all which give us ways to communicate that we didn't have even a decade ago. Our grandparents (and some of our parents) didn't know of a world where you could call people without a third-party operator making the right connection for you. Even our vehicles have gotten smarter with remote-start capabilities, individual climate controls, DVD-players and parking sensors to help you park your car.

Where do you fall in the technical evolution of the age? Can you handle a netbook? Do you know how to tweet? Can you find me on facebook? If you don't know what any of these terms mean, let me give you some lessons on current technologies that people are using.

Technology Lesson #1 - Smartphone

Smartphones are like mini-computers that people use to make phone calls with. Some of the biggest brands are the Apple iPhone, Blackberry Storm, Google Android and the Palm Pre. With smartphones you can check email, view documents, make dinner reservations, read the Bible, play Tetris, watch a YouTube video and more through various applications that are available.

Technology Lesson #2 - Facebook

Facebook is one of the largest social media platforms in operation. Update your "status" however you like, become "friends" with people, create fan pages, market products and find out the latest with your friends and family. Go to facebook.com for more information.

Technology Lesson #3 - Twitter

Twitter is text messaging with a purpose; at least that's how I can simplify it. It's a way for people to send out short messages about hot topics, products or just general personal updates. Go to twitter.com for more information.

Technology Lesson #4 - Google Maps

Google Maps is used to help web users map out directions to/from various places. It's also used to assist in finding locations near a specified address. You can get a live street view, satellite view or a mixed view of roads. Go to maps.google.com for more information.

Technology Lesson #5 - Netbook

Netbooks are mainly smaller, cheaper versions of laptops. They typically run the Windows XP or Linux operating system. Standard specs of netbook include resolutions at 1024x600, 100Mbps Ethernet, USB ports, and built-in camera. Unfortunately they don't come with CD or DVD drives.

Technology Lesson #6 - Digital Camera

I'm sure there are some that still use disposable cameras or cameras that you have to insert a roll of 200-speed film, but I want to give you good news this year - you don't ever have to use these former methods of taking pictures again. Digital cameras are as reasonable as $100. Look for at least 5-megapixels, 3x optical zoom and a nice-sized viewing window or picture-taking.

Technology Lesson #7 - DVRs

DVRs (or digital video recorders) have given us a new way to watch cable television. Now you can start/stop television shows in progress, and record a show from one channel as you watch from another channel.

Technology Lesson #8 - Blu-Ray

Blu-Ray discs were made for high-definition television. It's not just a DVD, it's an experience. Blu-Ray discs can hold 25GB on one layer, 50GB if it's a double-layer disc.

Technology Lesson #9 - Blogs

Blogs are a type of website. Most people use them as diaries, portfolios, or ways to get comments on thoughts and feelings.

Technology Lesson #10 - Wii

The Wii by Nintendo is the most interactive video game system out there. With extensions such as Wii Fit and Wii Sports Resort there are plenty of ways to not only stay in shape but have fun as well.

Sources:

What is a Netbook computer?
http://news.cnet.com/what-is-a-netbook-computer/

Blu-Ray.com - What is Blu-Ray?
http://www.blu-ray.com/info/

What exactly is a blog anyway?
http://www.pbs.org/teachers/learning.now/2006/05/what_exactly_is_a_blog_anyway.html