July, 2010


31
Jul 10

Blizzcon* 2010

Blizzcon 2010When one thinks of PC gaming, no company pops into your mind faster than Blizzard. Blizzard has locked down the the PC gaming market with their industry giants Warcraft, World of Warcraft, Diablo and StarCraft, widely considered to be the greatest Real Time Strategy game of all time. Gaming conventions have been around for a while now and generally every single one them encompasses gaming from all platforms like Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Nintendo Wii, PC and others. Some conventions even focus on one specific platform but no convention around is completely dedicated to one solitary company except for Blizzcon.

Blizzcon is Blizzard’s very own convention focusing on everything that the gaming giant has to offer. Beginning in 2005, Blizzard has unveiled some pretty impressive products from World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade and Wrath of the Lych King in 2005 and 2007, respectively, to the Diablo III Monk and Wizard classes in 2008 and 2009. There is no place on earth where you can find all the inside details on Blizzard and their upcoming products.

Blizzcon 2010 is coming up soon and this year will be one that you will definitely not want to miss. This year’s convention will be heading back to California to the Anaheim Convention Center on October 22-23, 2010, and will feature a ton of new stuff for Blizzard fans to occupy their time with. At this year’s convention attendees will get a chance to experience:

-Hands-on playtime with upcoming Blizzard games

-Discussion panels with Blizzard Entertainment developers

-Competitive and casual tournaments for players to showcase their talents

-Community contests with great prizes

-Commemorative merchandise based on Blizzard Entertainment’s game universes

-and much much more…

Blizzcon is an incredible experience for not only Blizzard fans but also the entire PC gaming community. This year’s show will definitely focus on StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty which is available now. StarCraft II is the highly anticipated sequel to what is considered to be the greatest Real Time Strategy game ever created. Playable games, incredible merchandise, extravagant Blizzard-based fan costumes and more fun than you can shake a Zergling at, Blizzcon is everything you could want in a PC gaming convention and more.

There will be a ton of exhibitors at Blizzcon this year, some of which may have trouble gathering all the different pieces of technology they might need in order to present a top notch vendor booth. This is where Rentacomputer.com comes into play. Rentacomputer.com has high quality computer rentals for any type of convention, trade show or event. You can get a fast and easy computer rental quote that allows for fast and easy local delivery and installation directly to your booth. Rentacomputer.com is your top source for high quality computer and av rentals.

*TechTravelAgent.com is not affiliated with nor in any way authorized by the Anaheim Convention Center or Blizzcon 2010. TechTravelAgent.com is an independent nationwide technology rental provider and this page in no way implies exclusivity of our services at the Anaheim Convention Center or Blizzcon 2010.


30
Jul 10

Renting Apple’s iPad

apple iPad rentals
Do you have a computer training class, business trip, or maybe are just curious about Apple’s new iPad? Well then renting an iPad is your best bet. It’s light, portable, fast, and feature-filled. It’s much easier to tote around than a laptop.

The iPad is perfect for all of your business needs. It has countless features and apps that will assist you with everything that you can imagine. If you’re renting the iPad for business purposes then apps like iWork could definitely come in handy. It is an application that allows you to easily create documents, stunning presentations, and spreadsheets.

The iPad is jam-packed with not only useful business apps and features but also apps that fit anyone’s needs. It’s perfect for your next training class or business trip, because it allows you to take care of the business side of things and then use the iPad for all your entertainment needs in your free time.

Rentacomputer.com is the perfect place for all of your technology rentals. You can easily get an online iPad rental quote. To rent an iPad, laptop, or other technological device contact a tech travel agent today at 800-736-8772.


30
Jul 10

California’s Dreamin’ About Computer Rentals

California's Dreamin' About Computer RentalsFrom the sunny Pacific Coast to the gorgeous Sierra Nevada Mountains, California is one of the most popular states for temporary technology.  People are always traveling in and out of the “Golden State” for a number of different reasons.  Here’s a look at why and how California’s residents and visitors are taking advantage of California Computer Rentals.

1.  So Many People!

 California is the most populated state in the United States and is considered the most populated sub-national entity in North America.  It’s also home to eight of the nation’s top 50 most populous cities.  In 2009, the United States Census Bureau estimated the state’s population at 36,961,664.  That’s almost as many people as the entire country of Poland.   Big populations mean more new businesses and new businesses often use office equipment rentals when they start-up due to their affordability.  

2.  So Many Convention Centers!

California isn’t just heavily populated, geographically, it’s the third-largest state in the country.  With such a large population spread over such a large piece of land, you can bet California has its share of convention centers. As a matter of fact, it’s home to some of the largest convention centers in the country!  The Los Angeles Convention Center is perhaps the most well-known and is one of the largest in all of North America.  The San Diego Convention Center, Moscone Center in San Francisco, the Anaheim Convention Center, and the Long Beach Convention Center are a few others that rank among the biggest in the United States.  Millions of people travel to and from California for conventions, trade shows, and other corporate events and they often rely on technology such as projector rentals and plasma TV rentals to spruce up their booths and presentations.  Because they are traveling from all over the country, these technology rentals make the trip a little easier; the projectors and plasmas can be delivered to any convention center in the entire state! 

3.  Tourism

California sees a large number of tourists each year.   From its sandy beaches and gorgeous state parks, to attractions like Hollywood and Disneyland, millions of vacationers choose California.  Most people like to stay in touch with the office while they’re on vacation, however with today’s tedious airport rules, they don’t like to take their own personal laptops on long trips.  Renting a laptop is a great solution for anyone who is traveling for business or pleasure and doesn’t want the hassle of carrying a laptop with them.  A computer rental firm such as Rentacomputer.com can have a laptop delivered to meet you at your destination and you can keep it for as long as you need. 

4.  Marina del Rey

When CNN announced its “100 Best Places to Live and Launch” list this year, Marina del Rey, California came in at number four due to its “business-friendly tax structure.”    From CNN.com: “There’s a tremendously vibrant retail and tourism sector – the area is home to the highest density of restaurant seating in one square mile outside of Manhattan. The major employers in the area are hotels, airlines, and the L.A. Department of Beaches. The county offers a handful of business incentives, from tax credits for firms that hire long-term welfare recipients to rebate programs to promote energy conservation. Located four miles north of LAX, Marina Del Rey tends to be more affordable than many of its nearby towns, such as Santa Monica.”  Other California cities topped the list as well; American Canyon came in at number eleven, Novato at number sixteen, and Carlsbad at number thirty-two.  Prominent lists such as these are always attracting new small and medium-sized businesses to these cities and new SMBs mean a new need for temporary technology.  Desktop rentals, laptop rentals, and copier rentals are just a few things new businesses are renting.


22
Jul 10

Fan Expo 2010* Coming Up in August

fan expo 2010Fan Expo is entering into its 16th year this August. It is being held in Toronto, Canada at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre which is located in the vibrant heart of downtown Toronto. It starts Friday the 27th of August and goes until Sunday the 29th.

The Metro Toronto Convention Centre is one of Canada’s top trade show and convention facilities. It features 600,000 square feet of exhibit space, 64 meeting rooms, a 1,330 seat theater, and two different ballrooms. It’s only 20 minutes away from the Pearson International Airport, and it is right in the middle of fine shopping, restaurants, attractions, and entertainment.

So what is the Fan Expo? It is the ultimate fan event. It is one giant exposition with 5 unique genres: comic book, anime, science fiction, horror, and gaming. It features a variety of different events including: gaming tournaments, question and answer sessions, artist competitions, special effects/make-up workshops, portfolio reviews, a masquerade (where everyone dresses up as their favorite character), and so much more. Major companies exhibit their latest products, and retailers offer limited edition items.

This is the largest event of its kind to be held in Canada. Last year alone, the convention brought in over 59,000 attendees. This year it features a variety of celebrity guests such as Dean Stockwell, Michelle Forbes, Ogata Megumi, Summer Glau, Thomas Jane, J. Michael Straczynski, Adam and Andy Kubert, and James Marsters.

Ticket prices are as follows:

Basic Fan Expo Pass
Adult $29, Child $10
Includes limited access to the comic, sci-fi, anime, horror, or gaming expos for any 1 day; access to autograph area; access to entire show floor

Deluxe Fan Expo Pass
Adult $59
Includes unlimited access to all expos for all 3 days; intimate, interactive sessions with celebrity guests; access to masquerade

Premium Fan Expo Pass
Adult $89
Includes Deluxe Fan Expo Pass; VIP Fan Expo badge; Fan Expo bag; exclusive Expo entrance; special Expo preview on Friday; exclusive ticket counter; free admission to all Hobby Star Events until July 2011

Ultimate David Cronenberg Package
Adult $129
Includes VIP reception with David Cronenberg; an in-person autograph from David Cronenberg; an 8 x 10 picture of you and David Cronenberg; priority seating at the David Cronenberg presentation; limited edition Festival of Fear poster signed by David Cronenberg

Festival of Fear Package
Adult $199
Includes Deluxe Fan Expo Pass; VIP badge; exclusive Expo entrance; exclusive ticket counter; special Expo preview on Friday; Santo Sangre featuring El Hijo Del Santo; Night of the New Flesh featuring Bill Moseley and Heather Lagenkamp; Rue Morgue Special Issue #100 signed by the Rue Crew; Rue Morgue Issue poster signed by Rue Crew; one year subscription to Rue Morgue Digital; new collectible Rue Morgue belt buckle; limited edition Rue Morgue patch

Festival of Fear Ultimate Package
Adult $349
Includes Festival of Fear Package; Ultimate David Cronenberg Package; VIP ticket to Rue Morgue Shocktail Private Party Event Friday evening

Ogata Megumi Concert
Adult $30
Live concert Saturday, August 28th at 7:30 in the John Bassett Theater

This is going to be a huge event. You’re going to want a laptop or iPad to keep track of all the events, keep in touch with everyone at home, and maybe even take some notes during the workshops, question and answer sessions, and presentations. Rentacomputer.com can help take care of all of your computer rental or iPad rental needs. Get an online rental quote or talk to a tech travel agent today at 1-800-736-8772.

*Rentacomputer.com is not affiliated with or in any way authorized by Fan Expo or the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Rentacomputer.com is an independent nationwide technology rental provider and this page in no way implies exclusivity of our services Fan Expo or the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.


21
Jul 10

Great Ideas for Going Green at Meetings and Events

Going Green at Corporate Meetings and EventsIn recent years, the issue of corporate responsibility has become a relatively new problem facing businesses and corporations who have found themselves scrambling to prove their green credentials. “Going green” is a corporate responsibility that is almost always entirely voluntary, constantly falling onto the shoulders of conscious employees and supervisors who wish to promote only the most responsible corporate behavior.

However, making a major shift towards green sustainability takes years of planning and policy implementation which may not be feasible for every business out there. The new model for going green, instead, focuses on the ability to save your company capital as well as resources with immediate results. For convention planners, exhibitors, host facilities and vendors of all kinds, highlighted are green and money saving ideas for your trade show or event.

1. Utilize Lightweight Booths

Just because there is a recessionary economy doesn’t mean you need to downsize your marketing budget, which could hurt your company in the long run. Instead, consider the next generation of lightweight booth designs which will save you a bundle on shipping and fuel costs with the added bonus of reducing your carbon footprint. New wrinkle-resistant fabrics and plastics are made from over 80% recycled material and are stretched over recyclable aluminum frames. This allows different panels to be swapped in and out of an event at your discretion to create unique looks at various events. New retractable banner stands take the same exact same approach and are easy to set up, completely recyclable, and weigh in at 10-15 pounds each.

2. Minimize paper, Maximize wireless

Literally thousands of sheets of paper are wasted at nearly every single meeting and convention located in the United States. This problem has compounded so much that even state agencies are taking a stand by certifying convention centers that adhere to their guidelines as “green.” The overall purpose of this is to minimize the use of paper as much as possible by making online registration the preferred method for confirming attendance and by delivering program materials via PDF downloads and other eco-friendly means. In addition, convention centers are rapidly deploying their own wireless networks in an effort to capture more business and so exhibitors can be prepared to distribute post-conference materials by download rather than in printed form.

3. Coordinate Transportation

Even when a conference or event is held in a single location, all attendees should be encouraged to carpool, walk and use alternatives to single-passenger cars such as public transportation. Conference managers may be able to strike a deal with local public transportation agencies for discounted prices, and even the act of simply providing fare information has shown to increase the use of public transportation and carpools among event participants. Exhibitors who use Rentacomputer.com for their convention rentals need not worry about transporting any equipment to the site as Rentacomputer’s certified technicians can take care of delivery, setup, installation, and breakdown anywhere in the United States and Canada.

4. Cultivate the Proper Mindset

All types of conference participants, from attendees to exhibitors to public speakers, should be encouraged to do their part and support reduced waste and increased recycling. A green mindset doesn’t happen overnight, but through careful planning and the desire to better your business you can take charge and take the first few steps towards a greener tomorrow. Not only are you doing the environment a favor, but you’ll be saving some green while being more green yourself. Rentacomputer can help you towards a greener future since we ourselves have expert knowledge concerning conventions, trade shows, and events of all kinds. On top of that, we are the premier source for the latest computer rentals, plasma monitors, audio-visual equipment and video walls that are sure to make your exhibit a success.

5. Utilize a Tech Travel Agent©

By using a Tech Travel Agent©, manpower and inventory are already in local markets. This minimizes shipping and paying a tech to travel… which helps keep our planet green. Take the first step in making your next event environmentally friendly by utilizing the services of a Tech Travel Agent©. Tech Travel Agents© coordinate the various technicians and engineers to install and manage everything including: laptop computers, iPads, sound, projectors, rigging, lighting, staging, pipe & drape, media servers and other event equipment.

 

Call us today at 1-800-736-8772 or fill out a Quick Rental Quote Request and an experienced Tech Travel Agent will personally attend to your needs.


13
Jul 10

New Orleans Computer Rentals

New Orleans Computer RentalsThe New Orleans Metropolitan area is the largest in Louisiana and one of the 50 largest in the United States.  It’s also one of the largest and busiest ports in the world, making it a major center of the maritime industry.  As recent news has reminded us, the city is a major player in the country’s oil refining and petrochemical production.   Secondary education is big in New Orleans, with over 50,000 college students enrolled in schools like Tulane University.   The city is a major hub for the health care industry and of course, there are a lot of people making their living on the city’s tourism business.  And while a number of large companies have significant operations in New Orleans – AT&T, Capital One, Popeye’s Chicken, Lockheed Martin, IBM, and Rolls-Royce to name a few – small business rules in The Big Easy. 

This makes New Orelans a great city for computer rentals. Right now, Rentacomputer.com has 31 Tech Army members in New Orleans alone! What does this mean? It means that when you are in need of a  computer rental or other technology rental, we aren’t relying on one vendor to supply your equipment. We have enough back-up for any job, no matter the size. Need a desktop computer? We have at least five sources who can provide you with the rental, deliver it to your preferred site, and will install the computer to make sure it meets your standards. We offer competitive rates and excellent customer service. There’s no reason to go anywhere else!

For computer rentals in New Orleans or anywhere in the United States, call 1-800-736-8772 today or visit our website, Rentacomputer.com, to get receive an express quote on technology and computer rentals in New Orleans.


12
Jul 10

Nerd Camps

Is your child in the top five of his class and in every talented and gifted program the school has managed to salvage from the tax cut crowd? Does the prospect of summer sports teams and traditional summer camp put a terrified look in his or her eye? Take heart, your child can have a great summer, learn some great educational tools along the way, and be in his or her element ,  send your talented and gifted child to “Nerd Camp.”

What is Nerd Camp? Well what its not is a place ride horses, swim in a lake, or play organized sports. Instead kids spend five hours a day in class studying subjects they have an interest in, and incorporate cutting edge technology in their work. After class, the kids chill at a mandatory fun time, then have dinner, followed not by the old camp fire sing along, but a two hour study hall. If this sounds like a fun time for your talented and gifted child, then Nerd Camp may be an ideal three week camp. Of course, at a camp like this you will want to send you child with cutting edge technology (unlike some camps that will immediately relieve your child of their cell phone and tell you not to pack laptops). Nerd Camp encourages kids to bring their laptops and blackberrys and you can encourage you child with the newest in laptop technology like an I-Pad. Talk to the great people at rentacomputer.com at 800-736-8772.  You can also visit their site at www.rentacomputer.com

So for a different type of summer camp, send your talented and gifted child to Nerd Camp. Its might be something they look forward to every summer.


11
Jul 10

Computer Rentals for Market Research

Computer Rentals for Market Research

Market research is something many companies often do to gather information about their customers or today’s consumer markets. This can involve gathering opinions, attempting to understand consumers interpretations of products, and gaining insight into decision-making.

Often times, a company will create a temporary focus group, inviting members to gather at a specific location and give their opinions, perceptions, attitudes, and beliefs about a product, its advertising, packaging or other qualities.

Focus groups can provide a company with a number of benefits. The group setting allows the company to get an insight into consumers they would not be able to get otherwise.  The person conducting the research can watch as the consumers feed off each other and add more to a discussion.

Unfortunately, if you’re a small business and you tend to do your own market research when you have a new product or service, you probably can’t just run out and purchase new technology just for this purpose. There are bigger financial needs at your business. This is a time when many companies choose to rent a computer or other technology.

So what kind of technology can help you with your market research?

- Desktop or Laptop rentals are great if you want every member of your group to have internet access or a place to take an online or computerized survey.

- You may even consider an iPad rental because they are smaller and easier to use when you just need a quick gadget.

- Projector Rentals are a must have if you need to show a series of slides or Powerpoint presentation to your focus group.

Regardless of what type of technology or computer rental you need, Rentacomputer.com understands that market research is important to your company and we want to do what we can to help make your focus group comfortable and help them feel at east. This means providing you with state-of-the-art technology that is current and that will work without a hitch as soon as you turn it on. Best of all, you can rent a computer, iPad, projector or any other technology for as long or as little as you want!

Just call 1-800-736-8772 today to speak to one of our Tech Travel Agents about what types of rentals you need for your next focus group or market research meeting.


9
Jul 10

Going to Gencon* Keep in touch with an I-Pad!

What’s the biggest event of the year for Gamers? Gencon*! Gencon* is held annually in Indianapolis this year on August5-8 2010 at the Indiana Convention Center*. Tens of thousands of gamers, game manufacturers, and designers gather to show off their new products, get new ideas, and frankly play games. In all this mass of gaming humanity, an I- Pad is a great tool, and anyone who has basic internet skills can use one. The I-pad is perfect for down loading the newest fantasy artwork, or accessing a gaming company’s website for a brand new application or game. The I –Pad makes it possible to instantly connect with people back home through easy access to your e-mail account.

Complete your convention hard ware package with a Nextel Radio Rental to stay in touch with your gaming group. One of the best things about gaming is the spontaneity that occurs at the event or gaming table, and if you have to wait, you miss the moment. The Nextel Radio by-passes poor reception and phone mail making it much more possible to be in the moment!

So when you go to Gencon, famous for pen and paper and little plastic multi-shaped dice, take some cutting edge Nextel Rental technology to help you enjoy the different world that you enter into for the weekend. If you need assistance with outfitting your gaming convention safari with an I-Pad rental talk to the great people at www.rentacomputer.com

*Rentacomputer.com is not affiliated with or in any way authorized by the Gencon or the Indiana Convention Center. Rentacomputer.com is an independent nationwide technology rental provider and this page in no way implies exclusivity of our services at Gencon or the Indiana Convention Center.


6
Jul 10

Everyone is Talking About iPad Rentals

Everyone is Talking About iPad Rentals iPads are all the rage these days but did you know you can actually rent an iPad?

Renting an iPad is an ingenious idea and it can serve a number of purposes.  Whether you need something to use for a training class or trade show, you travel a lot, or just want to check out the new technology, here is a look at a few reasons why you should consider renting an iPad today.

Training and Workshops

Andy Wendt of  Rentacomputer.com says he often gets calls from people looking to rent iPads for training classes.  “A really good use for an iPad rental is that training class or other event that just requires basic internet access. Before Apple released the iPad, the best you could do was to use a net-book or tablet device for internet access. An iPad is much smaller and easier to use. You can have an entire group of people online in minutes with their built in Wi-Fi or 3G connections that are available as needed,” Wendt said about the product.

Trade Shows

When you exhibit at a trade show, you often find many customers and consumers gathered around your booth, and maybe even more than you and your staff can handle at one time.   Imagine if you’d rented a few iPads for the weekend and had them sitting around your booth with your company website on the screen,  ready and waiting for those customers and consumers to explore your website, register, and more.  The sleek, new technology is attractive and will surely catch more than just a few people’s eye, as well as keep them at your booth while they’re waiting on you to help them.

Business Travel

If you travel for business, you probably find yourself with a lot of extra time on your hands.  Whether you’re stuck in an airport or a boardroom, pulling out your laptop every time you want to check the latest news, sports or weather, or to check your office email  isn’t always easy or convenient.  The iPad is so much smaller and easier to handle that you can use it virtually anywhere.  And it comes with both 3G and Wi-Fi capabilities.

Testing New Technology

Maybe you’ve been thinking about getting an iPad but you’re not really sure you’re ready to invest that much money into the new gadget.  Or maybe you’ve been thinking about purchasing several iPads for your office or staff and want to see if they’ll fit your company’s needs.  Renting an iPad for a day or even a week will help you determine whether or not the iPad is right for you and your company.

Renting any type of technology is great because you don’t have to spend a ton of money on equipment you may only need for a certain period of time.  If you’re exhibiting at a trade show one or two weekends a year, or holding training classes for one week every six months, purchasing equipment for that can be expensive.  And it’s such a waste to spend money on equipment that’s going to spend the majority of time in storage.   Not only that, but technology is ever-evolving and becomes obsolete quickly.  By renting, you get to take advantage of the latest technology without having to pay for constant upgrades.

So, if you’re thinking about using some type of portable technology for your next event, business trip, or training class, consider iPad rentals from Rentacomputer.com.   For more information, call 1-800-736-8772 today!