Since Feb 1994, Lube and Tune has been a source of articles that explain computer and communications technology to a general audience. The purpose is to describe even the most complex issues in clear and simple terms that anyone can understand. The main site is still http://www.yale.edu/pclt, but this space is an experiment in moving hypertext from a Web site to a Confluence wiki. Selected articles will be moved and reformatted.
Articles are available on:
An Introduction to PC Hardware - The PC may say Dell or HP on the outside, but inside it is assembled from a dozen standard components manufactured by companies whose names you have never heard. To make the parts interchangeable, all the standards are public. You can learn as much as you care to about how it all works and what the buzzwords really mean. No prior knowledge is assumed, and everything is explained in simple, clear terms.
Computers, Video Files, and HDTV - Just as the old LP record has been replaced by CDs, and the VHS tape is being replaced by DVDs, so the cable companies and TV broadcasters are moving to the digital transmission of TV programs, and consumers are adopting devices that digitally store TV programs on hard disks. This article has no sales pitch. It doesn't talk about makes, models, or program packages. This is strictly about how things work. How does a conventional TV work? What are the differences between a TV and a computer monitor? How does digital TV broadcast work? What kinds of hardware connect your PC your TV set? If nothing else, after reading this article you will realize just how little those sales clowns at Circuit City really know about the stuff they are selling.
