STACK #244 February 2025

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STACK’s TECH TIPS FOR UNI Use a password manager

Keep track of multiple accounts with a password manager, which generates strong passwords and automatically fills them in, saving you time and the hassle of remembering them all. Leverage cloud storage Platforms like Google Drive or OneDrive allow you to access files online from any device and automatically back up your work. Collaborative features can also make group projects easier. Download productivity apps Apps for note taking, task management, and time organisation

FEBRUARY

DYK?

Samsung originally sold dried fish, noodles, and groceries. The company started in 1938 as a trading business before moving into electronics in the late 1960s.

Technology has become an integral part of Australian lifestyles and continues to advance in leaps and bounds. From smartphones to smart homes, STACK keeps you up to date on the latest consumer tech in user-friendly terms, along with key points to consider before you buy. If you love tech, you’re in the right place.

can help you stay on top of your studies. Protect your investment

Keep your tech in tip-top shape when travelling to, from, and around campus. Consider a sturdy laptop bag to prevent any damage, and keep devices secure with antivirus software. Insurance to cover portable items is also a good idea.

How Much Storage Do You Really Need? Running out of storage can be frustrating, preventing you from taking photos,

1986

What was the hottest tech in…

downloading games, or using devices fully. Understanding different storage types helps you make better choices. HDD vs. SSD HDDs (hard disk drives) and SSDs (solid state drives) are common in desktops, laptops, and portable

We’ve become accustomed to smartphones and smartwatches tracking our health and fitness statistics daily. It’s something that most of us take for granted in 2025. And the arrival of Samsung’s smart ring this month highlights the creative way that brands are envisaging the future of wearables. However, back in 1986, when Top Gun was ruling the box office, Puma took a huge – albeit commercially unsuccessful – step into the future with a revolutionary product: the RS Computer Shoe. Conceived for the athlete, the RS Computer Shoe, designed by Peter Cavanagh, housed an integrated computer chip in the heel. Incredibly for the year, runners could plug the shoe into a computer and then analyse their performance – a true forerunner of modern fitness tracking. This tracked key running metrics that included distance, time, speed, calories burned, and steps. Embracing a retro-futuristic design, the RS Computer Shoe maintained

storage. SSDs are much faster, especially for gaming and software loading. However, HDDs offer larger storage at a lower cost. Many users run software on an SSD while backing up data on an HDD. Choosing an SSD Budget SSDs work fine for casual use, though high-end SSDs are better for tasks like 3D modelling. Some devices, like Xbox Series X, require proprietary storage. Why is 1TB less than 1TB? Drives always show less useable space due to reserved system storage and byte conversion. A 1TB drive typically has around 930GB available. How much storage do you need? For gaming, 1TB is ideal. Smartphones need at least 128GB, but 256GB+ is better for heavy users. Expandable storage like microSD cards can help. USB and cloud storage USB flash drives are great for small file transfers but lack high capacity. Cloud storage is useful but requires subscriptions and internet access. A mix of physical and cloud backups ensures security.

the form of a traditional runner, although the bulky heel compartment hinted at the embedded technology within. Despite the leap forward in concept and technological thinking, the RS Computer Shoe failed to ignite consumer interest and ran out of puff at the starting block. The average trainer in 1986 cost around $US70. Puma’s price for the RS was $US200! The high price and limitations of technology of the time prevented widespread adoption. The RS Computer Shoe remains a symbol of Puma’s forward thinking and would inspire the wearable tech revolution long before it became a reality.

Stay tuned for the very latest in smart home technology as we bring together another comprehensive guide to everything you need to know in the automated home world. On The Radar

FEBRUARY 2025

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