However, nowadays, almost all computers (and laptops) come with Windows Vista. In fact, companies charge you extra if you want to downgrade to Windows XP. Being a computer geek myself (as are many others out there), I have absolutely refused to touch Vista ever since it was released. I tried out the beta for Windows 7 and I was blown away – I can’t wait for the actual release of that amazing operating system. I also happen to be in the market for a laptop, but I found that all the good laptops seem to ship with Windows Vista preinstalled (which I can’t stand). Rather than having to dish out $100 or more when Microsoft finally releases Windows 7, I did some research and found out how to get a free upgrade from Vista to 7 (when it comes out). Keep reading for the simple, official, and legal way of doing this.

On June 25th, 2009, Microsoft officially announced the Windows 7 Upgrade Program. This program states that any computer sold with Windows Vista after June 26, 2009, will receive a free copy of Windows 7. That’s it. No hoops to jump through, other than just having to confirm 2 things:

• The version of Windows Vista you are getting is Home Premium, Business, or Ultimate. (This does not apply to Windows XP).
• The manufacturer of your computer must support the upgrade program. To do this, simply call their customer service (or search online) and ask if they support it. They will tell you flat out – they make more sales, so they have nothing to hide! It only applies to OEMs, though, and can differ for various models, so make sure you ask!

That’s it. Just make sure you qualify with those two facets and you will be on your way from not having to touch Windows Vista for too long and jump straight to Windows 7, the widely acclaimed and well received Microsoft operating system.

That’s right, a green laser pointer for only $12. That’s more than a 80% discount. No shipping fee, no tax. The only downside is that you may have to wait for a while for it to arrive.

You can order this laser pointer from Deal Extreme.

I purchased this green laser pointer, and I am more than happy with it. It is EXTREMELY bright, and is very, very powerful. It is possible to even see the beam’s path in darkness, and you can see the actual green dot even in bright sunlight. The only downside was the waiting period between ordering it and having it in my hands; I waited for exactly 1 month, but a few of my other friends who also ordered it waited only 2-3 weeks. This is not an American shipping company, so you can’t expect it to come in a few days. If you do order it, just keep in mind that it does NOT have an infrared (IR) filter, and so it has a tremendous amount of IR output, which can be harmful if shined directly into the eyes. This laser can and will blind EXTREMELY quickly, so do not allow small children to play with it (or let it shine anywhere near anybody’s eyes). Even the reflected light can be dangerous. The battery life was decent for mine, but since it runs on 2 regular AAA batteries, substituting rechargable batteries instead makes it last much longer.

What are you waiting for? Go order that laser and make all your friends and family “green” with envy!