We just got a bunch of fantastic new laptops in, and have updated a few of our systems to give you even more bang for your buck... so we couldn't wait to share the news! Our new May System flyer is now available on-line in downloadable PDF and JPEG format. Be sure to take a look and check out our latest deals and hot new desktop system configurations!

It isn't very often that you hear good news when the words "recycling" and "fee" pop up, but we're happy to report that today is an exception!

The Ontario government has now lowered many recycling fees which were implemented to promote responsible management of Waste Electrical and Electronic (also known as WEE.) As a result, many popular electronic items now cost less!

Click the link to check out the new recycling fees.

Our May System flyer is now available on-line in downloadable PDF and JPEG format. Be sure to take a look and check out our latest deals and hot new desktop system configurations!

Free training on Windows 8 with every new PC purchase! We know how tough change is, especially going from an old computer to a new one, and now, moving into a brand new world.....Windows 8!

Windows 8 is so drastically different from 7, it's like going from the stone age to the space age. We've heard many opinions and the feedback we've received has been very valuable and because of this, we're offering something to you for FREE - A 30 minute training session with the owner of Signa with every purchase of a new PC - ABSOLUTELY FREE!

Most of our clients love the new Windows experience especially how the "start menu" has transformed into the constantly-updating Start Screen (think CP24), with "Live Tiles." Some of you though, refused to upgrade because of it. We understand how intimidating change can be, but we can help. This is your chance to test-drive the new platform, with a personal trainer at your side.

We are committed to our customers, and I will personally train each and every person that buys a desktop, notebook, or upgrades to windows 8, with one 30 min Windows 8 lesson.

We're always here to help (almost 20 years now!) and our promise is to continue to provide peace of mind every time you purchase something from us. So give us a call, email, or come on in, and we'll prove that change is a great thing.

Thank you,

Greg Stapells

Although you might not consider yourself a gamer, do you know your PC can double as a gaming console delivering a much greater user experience? Here are some of the advantages!

People today spend a lot of time and money on devices and consoles when in fact, they have one right in front of their noses... Yes, your own PC! Did you know your PC is the optimum device for all your gaming needs and, can also save you time, money and frustration in addition to delivering a much greater gaming experience? Here are some of the key advantages our experts have noted your PC can deliver :

• More types of games with more gameplay variety - discover entirely new genres (like RTSs and MMOs) which are almost completely absent from consoles but available in abundance on the PC.
  
• Control - better controls with a keyboard and mouse. Actually aim precisely and know that you have skill, rather than relying on auto-aim to do it for you.
  
• Higher resolution on your PC, enhanced detail and better video experience - even older titles from a decade ago all run in high definition or better. Push your detail way beyond what consoles can handle, and run at a razor-sharp 2560X1600.
  
• Get up close and personal - ever miss seeing the enemy in the distance because you're too far away from the screen? Get up close and personal with your monitor and fill your view a truly immersive rendering of the game world.
  
• Take advantage of user-created content - Download tons of free maps and mods which simply aren't available on consoles. Give many PC games new levels to play, new skins, and sometimes even entirely new gameplay modes - all for free! The PC is where modding began, and it's still where it's at.
  
• Instantly find tips online while gaming - stuck on a particular level and can't find the way out? Google is your friend, and it's only an ALT-Tab away!
  
• Protect your gaming library - console games are tied to each console generation, and once your console's kaput, you can't play anymore. PCs are a very generic and flexible platform though, and most older games (even ones from as far back as the 1980's) can still be run on modern PC hardware.
  
• Your PC is a multi-purpose machine good for all types of usage - when you're not gaming, you can actually use it to do other things. You can even make games with a PC!
  

At Signa, we're always here to help and provide you with the knowledge and peace of mind you need to make sound decisions. Please call, surf online, or come in for a visit. We look forward to seeing you!

Thank you,

Greg Stapells

Have you ever experienced a weak internet signal, drop off, or just a slow connection? Well, there are many ways you can increase range and speed and with these tips, we hope you'll increase your at home WiFi experience.

1. Move your wireless router to a central location: The best spot for your router is on a main floor, as close as possible to the center of your home. Also, try and keep it away from walls and metal objects. Nice high placement on a shelf usually works best, and don't be afraid to experiment and see what spot works best. Keep any doors open that separate you from your router; even hollow wooden ones will cause you to lose bars.
   
2. Replace your router: Routers have improved greatly over the years, so if yours is 3+ years old, you may want to consider replacing it with a newer model. This almost always boosts signal strength and speed and as an added bonus, doesn't need rebooting as often.
   
3. Replace your WiFi card in PC, or upgrade the wireless card in your notebook: Wireless-N gives the best range and speed, and where possible, you should try to match the brands of wireless products. E.g. D-Link routers work best with D-Link wireless cards. Some notebooks can be upgraded with newer Wi-Fi cards. Drop by with your notebook and we'll be able to tell you on the spot if this can be done.
   
4. Install a Range Expander or Repeater: These work great to boost the signal in problem areas of your home, whether it be a bedroom, a basement corner, or your back patio.
   
5. Run a hard-wired Ethernet cable: When all else fails, it's time to consider a hard wired Ethernet cable to connect your PC or Mac. While the most difficult to install, you can't beat the speed and reliability of a physical network connection. Snap that cable into the wall jack and you'll find you'll cut down on router reboots and find much reduced latency or lag time.
   

At Signa, we're always here to help and provide you with the knowledge and peace of mind you need to make sound decisions. Please call, surf online, or come in for a visit. We look forward to seeing you!

Warm Regards,

Greg Stapells

... and those browsers will love the new Internet Explorer 10... Recently released with some serious enhancements to boot. Not only is IE 10 smooth with Windows 7, but is included in Windows 8 and, with all its cool added features, is a huge hit and worth exploring! It's a great time to test drive Windows 8 with IE 10 or upgrade your system. Come on in for a test drive!

Here are some of the features that promise to make your Internet experience even better with IE 10:

• Offers better security and safer browsing
  
• Touch screen optimized for all tablets
  
• Comprehensive management and deployment tools for big and small business
  
• Emulation modes supporting sites designed around IE9, IE8, IE7, and “quirks” modes
  
• Unprecedented support for modern standards such as HTML5, CSS3, SVG, and ECMAScript5.1
  
• Tom's Hardware says IE10 performs 37% faster than Google Chrome on Windows 8
  

At Signa, we offer a wide array of products and services that make your life easier and less stressful. Our promise is to deliver the best solution for your budget and needs, whether it's for your home or business. So come on in for a visit, test drive Windows 8 and IE 10, or ask us how to optimize your technology to keep you as efficient as possible.

Warm Regards,

Greg Stapells

Did you know that the experts say one of the key elements that will allow your computer to perform better is to simply re-install your operating system? Well it's true.

A simple and easy practice to live by as your PC or MAC will perform even better over the long haul. Think of it as an engine tune up, a furnace cleaning, or your annual physical - the more proactive you are about your computer's maintenance, the better it will perform, and the longer it will last.

We can help, and as always, peace of mind is our promise -- to keep you and your computers in tip top shape! So, click, or call, or just come in! We're happy to help, and always at your service... whether it's an in-store upgrade or an at-home/office service call, we are your support team. We guarantee you'll be back and will love the Signa experience, every time!

Warm Regards,
Greg Stapells

Did you know that Signa also specializes in Apple products and services? Well, it's true! We know how busy life gets, and often our clients look to us to simplify their needs. We're more than willing to recommend a custom Apple solution, and even make the purchase for you... how easy is that? We'll setup your home or office, and if needed, even show you how to use everything... Now that's that Signa difference!

We're about the same price as the Apple store, and we provide the installation and training you need. Rest assured you won't have to wait in line either, and if you have any questions, we're always available.

Thanks as always, and remember: Signa is here to help you. We're better than the big box stores, let us prove it to you - we know you'll love the Signa experience!

Warm Regards,
Greg Stapells

Dear friends,

Spring is a great time for us all, and the change of season brings new light! With longer days and warmer temperatures on the way, we're looking forward to seeing more of you stopping in at Signa to say hello.

Do you know we offer many of the same products, prices, and services as the big box stores? Yes, it's true! Our advantage over the big box stores is a much quicker turnaround, combined with actual knowledge of the products we sell. That advantage is also YOUR advantage, as it allows us to quickly tailor a solution to meet your exact needs. Our promise is to deliver the peace of mind and knowledge you demand - unparalleled service that keeps you coming back.

Thank you for your ongoing support. Whether It’s a new PC or Mac, in-home or in-store service for your desktop, notebook, tablet, or mobile phone, we're here to help. So give us a call, or come stop by in person. I promise: you'll love the Signa experience every time.

Warm Regards,
Greg Stapells

When we think of "computing" we usually think of computing devices (the hardware) first, but when all is said and done, what's really important to us is the data. Hardware is easily replaced, but our documents, photos, music, artwork (and even trivial things we take for granted like browser bookmarks, address books, and old e-mail) can be absolutely irreplaceable.

We rarely consider the possibility of devices wearing out and breaking -- at least not until something actually happens, and precious data is lost. But of course, at that point, it's often too late. Taking an "it won't happen to me" approach is simply not good enough.

Be pro-active, and take the safety of your data in hand today. There are many backup solutions available, and most of them are both easy-to-use and extremely affordable. To find the backup solution that fits both your needs and your budget, drop in to Signa to today. We'll give you a free evaluation, and put you on the path to safely securing your data.

It's been said that iPads and popular tablets are great for media consumption: browsing the web, playing games, or writing the odd email, and touchsceens are well suited to this. For those who create content, work extensively with spreadsheets or accounting packages, write books, and more, a desktop or notebook is still the best tool to get things done.

We've been designing and recommending Desktops and Notebooks for almost 20 years now, helping people get things done and get back to business rather than fiddle with tech issues. We won't sell what you don't need, and everyone's needs are different. Some people insist on very quick start-up and an instant response. Others demand more graphics performance for CAD, design, or games. Some clients want a really small, compact design without any compromise on power. With our custom solutions, you only pay for what you need, and not a penny more.

So, let's recap the benefits of a Signa Custom Desktop or Notebook:

- Choice of colour, size, style
- Decide where to spend your money - Graphics or Speed, or both
- Completely upgradeable, allowing you to easily renew the performance
- Standard off-the-shelf components that can be obtained anywhere
- Local support from people you’ll get to know and will be there to help

P.S. there's a brand new class of computer coming on strong, the new Windows 8 Tablets. Think of them as a hybrid between a notebook and a tablet. They do everything an iPad or Android will do, but have MS Office 2013 included (no converting docs!), a USB port, and video out - they're incredible!

Feel free to send an email to sales@signa.com to discuss your particular requirements and how we can help you.

Regards,
Greg Stapells

Which productivity suite do you use? If you're like most people, you're running Office 2010 as it's the world standard from schools to businesses. Windows Phones allow you to open and save MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote files without converting them. It also connects to your Exchange Server for wireless syncing of email, contacts, calendar, tasks, and notes.

Internet Explorer 10 offers the best browsing experience, and Live Tiles allow you to put the stuff you care about right on the home screen, like your family photos, the weather, news, and more. All of this is accessible without tapping and running an app, it’s so convenient!

Most of our clients aren't all that interested having pages of 3rd party apps, but if there's something you need, there's a growing base of 140,000+ apps, so there's bound to be something to fit your unique requirement.

Please don't hesitate to ask any questions you may have concerning Windows or any other smartphone.

Best Regards,

Greg Stapells

Now that we've installed a few hundred copies of Windows 8, we thought we would share a few key findings.

• Microsoft has really perfected the upgrade process from Vista and 7. It supports and backs up programs and settings, installs Windows 8, and then restores program and user settings. It's an amazing feature, pain free and really does create peace of mind when transitioning to a new operating system.
  
• Upgrading from XP saves documents and settings, but you'll have to reinstall programs as Windows 8 is similar to Vista and 7, but radically different than XP.
  
• Windows 8 Does Not require a touchscreen! It's nice with it, but definitely optional. Once you click out of the Modern Interface (new start menu with Live Tiles) you're back to a Windows 7-familiar desktop, with all your shortcuts etc. The Modern interface works great with a mouse, but it takes a bit to get used to it.
  
• We thought we would get a lot more calls about any bugs but we didn't. People are just using and enjoying Windows 8, which is great. (Some take us up on 30 minutes or an hour of home instruction, which we use to transfer data and show you the ropes.)
  
• Once you get used to searching for and running programs without the old start menu, you won't miss it a bit.
  
• Some like Windows 8 so much they're switching from Blackberry and iPhone to Windows Phone 8. It has Microsoft Office 2013 built right in, along with Live Tiles that show you the information you need right on the main screen without running an app.
  

FYI - Microsoft has announced its been selling 20 million copies of Windows 8 per month, putting its new flagship slight ahead of its last big success, Windows 7. We’re here to guide you through the process, so if you have any questions, ask away. In the meantime, come in and test drive Windows 8 for yourself, and see what all the fuss is about!

Best Regards,

Greg Stapells

Signa has always believed in giving back to the community and to people less fortunate.

This holiday season, we will be making a donation on your behalf to Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital. Holland Bloorview pioneers treatments, technologies, therapies and real-world programs that give children with disabilities the tools to participate fully in life.

Thank you for your business, wishing you a happy holiday and healthy new year.