Neighborhood Computer Services

Clouding your Mind

2011-06-28T11:08:00.000-07:00

Think you're gonna SCREAM if someone else mentions 'the Cloud'? Get used to it... it' ain't goin' away.

The concept of CLOUD COMPUTING, that is, relying on an internet connection for generating and storing all your documents and communications, has been heading toward us now like a herd of thundering turtles. Google Docs was the first public commercially interesting effort at this and now Microsoft is moving to make sure they aren't left behind. So lets take a few lines of text and explore the State of Cloud computing today.

The idea of applications to generate word processing, spreadsheet and presentation documents which can be shared over the internet and virtually 'backed up' is a sound idea. People have been talking for many years, maybe 10 or more, about web based applications like Word and Excel over the net. And they're handy, al beit abbreviated in their ability to match the power of PC applications. There are certain limitations to the on-line software that are understandable, given the 'newness' of all this. The level of refinement will advance as the user base grows.

To-date I'm not aware of any Microsoft Access quality relational databases available 'in the Cloud' yet. That'll come, I'm sure. When it does the users in the Cloud will have no limits.

I say "Bring it!"

Neighborhood Computer Services Website Markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net Call : 503-530-6623

'Talking Pictures' - Skype makes video calls E-Z

2011-05-18T14:24:00.000-07:00

Have I written about Skype before? Well I'm writing about it now...

Skype is a great tool whether your friends and family are across the country or across town. Like Dick Tracy's (Who?) Radio-TV-Phone Watch, it puts you right in front of the person you're talking to, making a call much more personal, real & FUN than the phone is. Best of all: Skype calls from Computer to Computer are positively free...between here and...well, China, even.

Getting a Skype account is as simple as visiting Skype.com but to fully enjoy it, if you don't already have one, invest about $30-$50 in a decent webcam. These handy devices, available from your local office supply store, include a microphone and camera to transmit your voice and picture to people you choose to call.

Once you're set up you can search by name in Skype's contact directory to find family and friends who also have accounts. Once you send them an invitation to find you on Skype whenever it's 'open' you'll see if they're online and available to call. They can see you're on line too so either one of you can initiate a call and begin a 'video visit.'

Skype is simple and fast to learn to use. And it's become hugely popular. When I'm teaching a Skype class I'm always full with a waiting list. But if you aren't into taking a class you can learn most of what you need to know by visiting www.youtube.com and searching for 'How to use Skype'

Enjoy.

Neighborhood Computer Services Website
Markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net
Call : 503-530-6623

It's Not a Matter of Life & Death...

2011-02-12T10:03:00.000-08:00

It's a phrase often used to make emphasis that something isn't 'A matter of life & death...it's more important than that.' A pretty effective visual. And it could well apply to software updates; in particular, those Windows and browser updates.

Most of us don't even know that every week...EVERY single week... Microsoft releases patches and security fixes. These fixes protect (or try to, anyway) the computers it's products are used on from bugs and malicious attacks sent by unscrupulous people who's greatest thrill is to read in the paper that they brought a million computer users to their knees. It's an on-going issue; won't go away... it's as certain as the sun rising every morning. The attacks WILL come. What are YOU doing about it?

Most of us don't even notice that little windows icon in the lower right hand of our screens letting us know "Windows has downloaded updates ... and are ready to install..". We ignore it if we see it at all.

You MUST run and install those updates. If you don't you may as well not use virus protection or if you DO then not update those files either. You leave a welcome mat out for the bad guys. And it's not like the booggie man in the closet.... These guys are REALLY there...and they WILL do you hard.

So is all this scare tactic making you freak out? Don't freak. Watch this small film on windows updates and see how you go about protecting yourself. Turn your speakers up... Oh, and I know, I know... be careful about links on the internet. Hey, trust me... I'm a (computer) Doctor.

Happy computing... ;-)

Neighborhood Computer Services Website
Markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net

Call : 503-530-6623

Nasty Little Virus Vermin!

2011-01-11T11:41:00.000-08:00

I write here so often about the virus boogie men who pester us all with their 'craft'. They just don't go away, they don't sleep. They STEAL control of our computers so that we can't use them for anything but a door stop (PC) or a paper weight (Laptop). Grrrrr how we HATE those guys!

Actually it's not impossible to restore an infected computer .... IF you pull the infected, possessed hard drive, hook it up with a cable to another PC and run various scans for hours on end, then reinsert in in the 'infected' computer and run a few MORE hours of scans to get any 'baddies' that got missed before.

See? Simple, huh? Or just call your friendly Computer Repair Guy and ask for help. But don't begrudge him his fee. I can assure you it costs ALL of that to undo the harm done and get you enjoying your computing experience again.

Neighborhood Computer Services Website
Markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net

Call : 503-530-6623

Hello? Santa? All I want for NEW YEARS is a VERIZON LTE IPhone

2010-12-13T16:56:00.000-08:00

Oh how the rumors do fly! But this one? This one may have some weight to it.

The rumor mills says Apple has shipped Verizon IPhones to dealers (JUST VERIZON Stores) for sale right AFTER Christmas, as part of a deal to let AT&T keep Christmas sales.

How great is this, then? These phones, which we've all been waiting for now for like 3 years are reported to be LTE meaning True 4th Generation wireless network. That'd mean faster... But we can't really say how many balls were dropped with the new Verizon IPhone and how many NEW balls are in play, because if we DID we'd have ta KILL ya.

Secrecy is everything; unless someone leaves one in a bar between now and Christmas!

So the cat's outta the bag, the genie is outta the bottle and the ...ok, I ran out of little sayings already. Just wait and watch like the rest of us.

Neighborhood Computer Services Website
Markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net

Call : 503-530-6623

"Hey, I was born at night, but it wasn't LAST night!"

2010-09-14T11:10:00.001-07:00

Well, the ever inventive virus community is at it again. And the creativity out of this groups is amazing...never ONCE taking the e-mail community for anything but FOOLS!

What you'll be seeing soon if you haven't already is an e-mail addressed to YOU from someone you may or may not know, saying something like: "Honey, here are the childrens birth certificates..." and there will be a zip file attached. You'd have to be certifiably NUTZ to click on that zip file...but undoubtedly many many many will.

But YOU won't, constant reader...because you're too smart; or because you read my blog!

Neighborhood Computer Services Website
Markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net

Call : 503-530-6623

Can you hear me NOW? Jabra Extereme Ear Bud

2010-08-16T15:45:00.000-07:00

Almost all states are moving to a law that requires car & truck drivers have hands free devices to handle calls while driving, or just leave the darn thing OFF till you get to your destination.While the 'in-the-ear' devices may make one look nerdy they sure do a good job.

We especially like the Jabra line and at $80- retail the Jabra Extreme is a nice choice. Your phone has to be Blue-tooth capable for this choices to work, but if it is then this one is slick. It's small, and has a loop around the ear which helps ensure it won't fall out mid-call and have you looking in your lap instead of the road. The noise blackout features help quiet background noise for whomever your speaking with. AND, this unit will allow streaming audio, which many other devices will NOT do. This is a nice feature if you have pop casts or the like to listen too while driving or walking. Talking time on a full charge is like 5.5 hours (or a little less) and 10.5 DAYS in standby mode.

We recommend it.

Neighborhood Computer Services Website
Markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net

Call : 503-530-6623

Printing with the IPad

2010-06-10T17:55:00.000-07:00

Yes, Virginia, you CAN print from the IPad. But you'll need an APP to do it till Apple comes up with a native solution. If you E-Mail me maybe I can hook you up with a solution. Oh, btw, works with IPhone, too!

Neighborhood Computer Services Website
Markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net

Call : 503-530-6623

The IPhone 4...

2010-06-09T12:33:00.000-07:00

The IPhone 4, going out June 24th, 2010 is the next 'insanely great' enhancement by Apple Computer. You can read about it everywhere and although it's press won't eclipse the IPad in the sexy category, it comes close.

So what will you get if you run out and buy the new IPhone, besides a new 2 year contract with AT&T and mediocre coverage? Well, the absolute best graphics presentation available on a phone. Two years ago who knew THAT would matter? Additionally, you'll be able to shoot pictures AND Movie clips on either side of the camera, which allows for the first time a video conference option with a cell phone. That is, if AT&T (or anyone else) can handle the band with that video conferencing will eat up. That makes it up in the air for now.

Beyond that the look and feel is 'cooler' now...thinner, lighter.

Apple has done it again...and this one will stave off the bite that the 'Droid phones are taking out of Apple...for a while, anyway.

Neighborhood Computer Services Website
Markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net

Call : 503-530-6623

S-MAC Me.... A good one!

2010-06-09T12:24:00.000-07:00

Ok, I admit to going a little Mac crazy since we added THREE to the household. There will always probably be things I can only get done in a PC world, so it's not like I've abandoned ship or nothing.... But they are just plain fun!

My new Mac Book Pro has great battery life, great graphics and...well...it's just plain GREAT. Some things defy description.

So are they easier to use? I don't see that as a compelling reason to get a MAC.

Do they have less problems? Ok maybe they get a slight nod over windows machines for less problems, but hey...again..probably NOT a decision making reason.

So why get a MAC? Hey, if you don't know maybe I can't tell you. Ask another MAC user for their reasons. For me? Well for me, it's personal.

Neighborhood Computer Services Website
Markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net

Call : 503-530-6623

Face Time....

2010-04-02T10:28:00.000-07:00

Ok, Facebook. You knew I'd have to write about it sooner or later.

There are so many angles to come at it...I mean, how did it EVER become so iconoclastic? Wasn't it all about MySpace just a few years ago? Now you NEVER hear about people using MySpace. What happened? Ok, who really even cares?

I 'put up' a Facebook page a little over a year ago because thought it might enhance my business presence. Instead I found family I knew I had, but had somehow long ago forgotten...and being reunited is the 'really good thing'. In fact, NOW when I see folks who ask to be 'friends' using my precious Facebook page for crass commercialism I don't like it. Ok, maybe an occasional burst of pandering and prospecting is allowed, but if you have a plan to do business on Facebook get a BUSINESS FB page; keep business and pleasure separate. I have my limits ... you need yours.

Facebooking is fun, and it's great to see what family and friends are up to. I mean, that's what brings ME back again and again. Do I need it? Am I a Facebook Junkie? Well, I have two IPhone apps for Facebook, but I'm no junkie. I swear! I'm not in denial... I really am not. I mean yes, I check in twice a day or more, but Facebook occupies only 15 minutes or less of any of my days, on the average.

Some like to play the plethora of Facebook games available at the site... I am completely NOT enamored with that pursuit. I have to admit I being a little annoyed when forced to see what folks are doing in 'Farmville' appears on my pages...but hey, to each their own. It's not really a pet peeve or anything. Play on, Facebookers.

I'm happiest that I've found cousins and nieces and nephews and childhood friends who are back in my life. I feel richer for it.

For those of you not yet on Facebook nothing could be easier to use. That undoubtedly has a lot to do with the site's incredible growth. A free account is just a few clicks away. Put in a little info about yourself, like name, place of birth, high school and college and people you MIGHT know who are also on Facebook will be suggested to you as potential 'friends'. Add them and their friends are all potential new friends for you; many, as you'll discover, you probably already know. And you don't HAVE to add anyone as a friend....But try saying 'decline' to someone you DO know... I mean, you feel like SUCH a snob.

Caveat>.. What you post anywhere on the internet is forever OUT THERE...you can't really un-write what you have written. But..once you get over the fear of being out there you begin to realize that we are all defined everyday by what we say, write and do. So in a sense its your shot, maybe your ONLY shot, at immortality.

I say 'Go for it!'

Neighborhood Computer Services Website
Markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net

Call : 503-530-6623

The "Wack-A-Mole" ... (aka SnDog Virus)

2010-03-26T13:17:00.000-07:00

The SnDog/Ave virus, dubbed the 'wack-a-mole', because no matter how hard you work to remove it back it comes, popping up again & again & again.

How do you know you have it?

Does your computer have a pop-up screen that comes up each time you try to start a program or do ANYTHING, prompting you that you have been infected? Maybe a bogus 'scan' runs supposedly detecting viruses and offering to remove them if you 'JUST CLICK HERE'.....? Yes?

Oh yeah, you've got it.

And it looks just like a Microsoft product, doesn't it?

You can spend HOURS trying to remove it. Or you can reformat your computer and loose absolutely EVERYTHING you've taken years to accumulate.....OR.....

You could call me, or any other qualified technician, who can surgically remove this pain you're experiencing.

Hey, we don't START 'em...we just TERMINATE 'em.

Neighborhood Computer Services Website
Markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net

Call : 503-530-6623

Virus Extraction...A Painless cure for the Seriously Infected

2010-03-10T10:01:00.000-08:00

There is a 'revolutionary' technique for removing especially difficult Viruses and Malware that I'm now employing with great results. I'm calling it the 'extraction method' because it requires I remove your hard drive from your PC and run certain scans on it with MY equipment to isolate and surgically remove the 'cancerous' stuff, avoiding hours of trial and error work, or worse...having to wipe your disk clean and rebuild it. I've tried other methods but this one works the best and costs the client the least...and that's always a good thing.

Got an infection that has taken control of your PC? Keeps wanting you to buy something to correct the mistake? Guess what...that won't work! My way will.

Worried I'll see sensitive data on your machine if I take it to my shop? Trust me, I have no time or interest to pry.

Neighborhood Computer Services Website
Markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net

Call : 503-530-6623

The WHOLE Truth about Computer Reliability

2010-02-19T14:46:00.000-08:00

PC World's March issue is out and it's a scathing indictment of the #1 computer seller in the market. HP/Compaq sells more PC's than just about anyone and yet they've scored (again) at the bottom of the reliability charts. The same can be said about their laptops as with their desktop models. It's a shame, really, and a reality that HP is on record as trying to change, but their efforts have been slow. Success, I suppose, has a down side.

Apple, Acer and....a surprise for some...eMachines have all scored at the top of their class. Apple, of course, has been doing this pretty consistently, but the other two are other than household names for the general consumer.

HP has a gigantic market presence with their PC's being sold into every market channel imaginable. eMachines, often equated with low end computing, has delivered the goods on buyer satisfaction, as has Acer. The Acre market has grown accordingly and is now available way beyond their traditional online sales. I guess sometimes the good guys DO win.

Are there others I'd recommend? Sure. Of course. I still like Lenovo for desktops and laptops and Toshiba still scores at the top of the laptop heap (as does...'gasp'...Apple).

It underscores my gut for many years...that HP, though leading in units sold is also leading in complaints registered, and unless and until they provide me with a test model that proves PC World AND Neighborhood Computer Services wrong I just can't recommend 'em to anyone that asks me. Wish I could...can't.

Neighborhood Computer Services Website
Markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net

Call : 503-530-6623

"Danger! Danger! Will Robinson"

2010-02-11T13:17:00.000-08:00

We've written before about various e-mail scams to get to 'click here' and make you wish you hadn't... Most of us know that there are "Ethiopian" money scams. But the latest and nastiest are:

CraigsList Verifier - The way this one works is to LOOK as if it's from the CraigsList people, asking you to verify your 'membership' and click here to avoid a scam. Devious, but effective. Tens of thousands have clicked the link.
Shipping Company Delivery - From 'FedEX' or the like...Hey, you WANT to get your delivery, right? Even though you can't remember having ordered anything? Well, just click the link and...and you're screwed! Sorry, but there's no nice way to put it. This was NOT a note from a shipping company.

Both of these viral scams have had a variety of results ... None of them pleasant. It's really a shame that a growing amount of my business is undoing these avoidable scams for nice people. Be warned, and be careful about clicking ANYTHING in e-mails you weren't expecting to get. Your bank, your brokerage firm, shipping companies and your friends don't operate this way, so be careful out there.

Another bite of the APPLE? The IPad

2010-01-30T22:39:00.000-08:00

What IS this thing called IPad? A keyboard-less Netbook on steroids? A two-handed IPod? Something more? Something....less?

Though the jury is out and it's much too soon to pass definite judgment on Apple's latest release it IS noteworthy, if for no other reason than Apple has never put this much power for sale at such a competitive price.

The biggest shake up is the lack of a keyboard, or rather the use of an on-screen touch keyboard. Apple is certainly king of touch experience though Sony gave that market a shake last year with its Vaio offerings. But all the touch features that made the IPhone so cool are present in the IPad.

I suspect anyone who takes a trip to an Apple store to check these babies out will love them or hate them, but the tablet market is still in search of a customer base and the IPad may be ahead of its time. Or, perhaps its like caviar...an acquired taste. But if you're a gadget hound like me you just want to PLAY with it....for hours....on...end!

Hurry Up!

2010-01-16T13:55:00.000-08:00

One of the most common complaints by PC users, right after "I think I have a virus!", is "My computer has become soooo slow". Uh huh. They do that.

But the GOOD news is it's like highly fixable. The first place to start is to know what's loading on your computer every time you start up and then eliminate the ones that you don't absoltively need! It's not difficult, really, but for the non-techno minded you'll probably want to call a tech in for help. Takes about an hour to do a tune up and shouldn't cost more than 65-75$.

The second thing you can do is evaluate the cost of adding more RAM memory. Prices on RAM have been really low in the last 6 months, so less than 100$ can many times double, or even four-ple, your memory greatly speeding up your computer's thought process. Putting in new RAM is only a little tougher than plugging in a light bulb, but again, if you need help we do that, too.

Call or write us (503) 530-6623 markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net

What the Heck are you DOING?

2010-01-15T11:09:00.000-08:00

What are you doing with your computer? E-Mail, probably. Maybe a letter now and then. Search the internet? Almost for sure you're searching the net...But what ELSE?

Some folks are doing one of these things, too. But add your favorite thing to the list by posting a comment at the bottom:

Finding a Restaurant (Using yelp.com or some such)
Listening to music streams at Pandora.com
Using Google for find Hotel accommodations or fun Bed & Breakfast places
Creating a FREE blog to share their thoughts...Hey, it's easy if you start at Blogspot.com
Downloading and installing free Picasa to organize and modify pictures on your PC
And what about Twitter? You don't need a fancy phone to keep up with what's going on...
Then of course maybe it's time to give Facebook a try. I know you said you wouldn't but...
Oh...wait...don't know how to DO any of this? Visit Youtube.com and type in 'how do I ...'
Oh and are you up on the news? New York Times maybe?
And wouldn't it be nice to know the weather in Timbuktoo?

Ok, that'll get you started. Check one or more out and get back to me. I dare ya.

Desperately seeking.....Computing Nirvana!

2010-01-06T21:40:00.000-08:00

Most of my clients (people in YOUR neighborhood) come to me with various technology related issues, but the all have one thing in common. They eventually got tired of having their problems plague them, they just wanted things to WORK and they wanted someone to rescue them.

Hey, we all want to be rescued, don't we? Thank goodness there are experts who can make our pain stop and allow us to get our lives back. And we ask ourselves "Why did we wait so long to call? Was all that suffering necessary?"

Well, I have a theory on that....some say I have a theory on everything. My theory tells me that people need to go through whatever it is they do to bring them to the point of understanding what it is they need to do next. Simply, yes? But folks don't call me till that happens. Some suffer terribly before they get to the point where they reach out to an 'expert'. Once they do, though, they feel liberated! It's freeing to give your problems over to someone who has the skills that you've discovered you lack; someone who can make the frustration go away and make things work again.

That's what I do....make headaches go away...restore functionality and allow people to enjoy their lives again; instead of stumbling over technology once again they become the master and the tools bend to their command.

Oh so it sounds grandiose, eh? Then you, my friend, are not yet at that point. But you will be. I WILL be. We all will need someone to help us through a tough time. But when it's your computing tools, smart phone or software issues making you pull your hair out...call me!

Logmein.com Makes PC/Mac repair easy and quick

2009-12-16T11:27:00.000-08:00

I have quite a few clients now who when they call me and wish to schedule a repair appointment find that I can help them without having to disrupt THEIR schedules by accessing their computer(s) from my computer or IPhone. Many repairs are very immediate and don't require the client to be available. Nice for you; great for me. And, it brings down the cost of a repair! Now isn't THAT nice?

Neighborhood Computer Services Website
Markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net

Call : 503-530-6623

Blogging without a PC

2009-08-19T10:53:00.000-07:00

Oh yes, it's possible, as I just found out when I left home and forgot my laptop power cord. The world doesn't end... It just sort of bends!

So, a quick search of the iPhone app store uncovers several choices for adding to your blogsite on the fly. This article is proof it works... Or WILL be proof after I push send.

Wanna know more on this subject? Drop me a line...

NetBooks...I forgot NetBooks!

2009-08-06T11:31:00.000-07:00

I said I'd recommend a NetBook and I like totally forgot! So sorry. Here it is...

First a disclaimer...NetBooks are NOT for everyone. They have a more cramped keyboard and a small screen that isn't suited to some folks, and those with failing eyesight (read that as 50 years old or over) may find it a handicap. Having said all this...They ARE the HOT THING for folks that just do word processing and internet/e-mail.

PC World Magazine likes the Asus EeePC 1000HE ($399) and I can see why. Beyond its attractive price, though there are lighter NoteBooks, at 3.2 lbs its no problem to lug around. Battery life is over 7 hours on a full charge, which is 'killer' good to airline travelers. Trust me though, you WON'T want to stare at a 10" screen for 7 hours.

NoteBooks aren't known for speed, but this one moves along at a respectable clip. General design is good.

If you MUST have cheap, small, light, with long battery life and l can recommend this unit.

A second choice might be the Acer Aspire One AOD150 ($349). The unit weighs a little less and as only a slightly shorter battery life.

Either of these two units should make a NetBook shopper happy.

Latop Recommendaions for the Average Joe (Or Josephine)

2009-08-06T10:52:00.000-07:00

Well picking a laptop for 'Joe Average User' is a bit like kissing one's sister....not the most pleasant to contemplate but every now and then, necessary.

What most of us can buy off the retail shelf these days is greatly limited by the virtual (tongue in cheek) collapse of computer retailers like CompUSA and a host of others. I've ALWAYS preferred to specify my computers from the manufacturers any way; customer service as a selling point at Best Buy or Frys is grossly exaggerated.

Priorities here are for keeping the cost down without buying a computer which will be obsolete in 12 months. (NOTE: Software, such as the rather critical Microsoft Office Home/Student was NOT included and would add another 125-150 of cost. No additional warranties were added as they run a lot, but are worth a lot to be honest, if one is forward thinking. So many things can go wrong with a laptop).

So quick to the point, two systems I'd recommend for people I actually LIKE and hope to see again sometime would be:

Dell Latitude E5500 $808
Intel Core duo T7250 Processor (2 GHz, 2M L2 Cache, 800 MHz)
15.4 Inch Screen (I like the smaller 14", but the Average Joe often has failing eyesight!)
Operating System Software: Windows Vista Business SP1 (This was my upgrade preference)
RAM Memory 3 GHz DDR2 2 DIIMS ... Folks this is NO place to scrimp!
250 GB 5400 RPM Hard Drive (I like the 7200 RPM better, but $$$ rules it out)
Optical Drive 8X DVD+/-RW This will do anything I can think of
Wireless Card Dell 1510 802.11 a/g/n (Yeah, its an upgrade but its current technology)
Integrated web cam
6 Cell Battery (Again, a 9 Cell would be better, but money, money, money...)

OR you could get and its almost as good...

Lenovo (IBM) ThinkPad SL500 $659
Intel Core Duo T6570 Processor (2.1 GHz 800 MHz, @MBL2)
Operating System Software: Windows Vista Home Basic (Used Vista Business on system above)
15.4 Inch Screen (I like the smaller 14", as I said above)
RAM Memory 3 GHz DDR2 2 DIIMS ... Folks, I say again, this is NO place to scrimp!
160 GB 5400 RPM Hard Drive (the 250 GB above is probably overkill)
Optical Drive CD-RW/DVD-ROM Combo Not as good as the Dell system; good enough for most
Wireless Card Intel WIMax/WiFi 5150 802.11 a/g/n (again, upgrade; performance is worth it)
Integrated web cam
6 Cell Battery

So would I go for the cheaper system for a customer? Probably yes. There's nothing in the Dell that would be missed that much in the Lenovo. Maybe I'd add Vista business which would get them closer together in price. But remember, you're STILL gonna be out 150 for MS Office software.

Happy computing!

Neighborhood Computer Services Website
Markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net

Call : 503-530-6623

Tweet! Tweet!

2009-07-18T09:46:00.000-07:00

Hey, have I talked about TWITTER? Do I need to? Well, there's a lot of argument about that.

Twitter is, depending on who you talk to:

A complete waste of precious time, making and reading short statements about nothing. Or ...
An indispensable tool for communicating from computer or cell phone and staying in touch with a rapidly changing world.

Ok well... as with MOST realities the truth most likely lies somewhere in between.

I LIKE Twitter, not that I use it all that much (YET!). I like what it tries to do; what it DOES do. It's sort of like CHAT on the fly, which is a little redundant I realize, even as I write it.

Twitter has been used to say silly little thoughts off the top of ones head to no one in particular, or to a business associate, or to someone you love, or someone you wish loved you.

But Twitter is rapidly becoming a LOT more. Recently a Russian break-away state used twitter as a means of organizing protest; so did dissidents in Iran who were unhappy with their Government's handing of an election. It was used to announce an impromptu concern by Comedian Dave Chappelle in Portland, OR only HOURS before it took place....Hundreds showed up. Granted, the last point is less important than the first too, but you should know the range.

Additionally, it's being marketed as the NEW MOBILE MARKETPLACE by innovative new businesses looking for ways to link clients to products and services.

Hey, like it or not TWITTER and services not yet dreamed of are part of the digital world we all have happening around us. I LIKE it. May as well; its gonna happen anyway. I'm not letting kids under 18 have ALL the fun to themselves. No way!

Going, Going.....

2009-05-04T16:46:00.000-07:00

Well, next Tuesday (5-19) I offer my periodic class on using using CraigsList to find and/or list things to Buy/Sell on the internet. This class is intended for those very new to CraigsList and many of my past students have never seen it in action.

CraigsList is actually a handy on-line bulletin board connecting buyers & sellers, usually in a local market, such as our Greater Portland/Vancouver Metro area. There are definite advantages in dealing with neighbors as customers and the fun of either adding to or cleaning out a closet is fun and for many a nice source of extra spending cash.

The following week I'm teaching at Oasis Center again on Using FaceBook...Social networking. This classes is a basic introduction intended for folks with Internet access and who don't yet have a FaceBook account. FaceBook is a site on the net intended to connect people, friends, family..to share thoughts, ideas and pictures. It's a site drawing an enormous ammount of press lately, as people flock to new and better means of connecting when miles and miles separate us.

If either of these might be something of interest click on this link for the Oasis Site and see if space is available.

Neighborhood Computer Services Website
Markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net

Call : 503-530-6623

Big Brother is Watching!...and it's a GOOD thing.

2009-03-22T13:29:00.000-07:00

Some of my clients have started asking me for regular visits to their machines via remote access to see just what their problems are...I'm more than happy to oblige. Making an 'ONLINE Service Call' has the impact of being fast, short and inexpensive, with no drive time...just wham bam thankyou Mame (or Mister).

Using a free software device and a high speed internet access I can log into your machine via a secure connection and you can SHOW me what's plaguing you while I watch from the my office. If I'm not tied up with another call it has the benefit of making the call immediate, fast and cheap. And you won't have to talk to China or India, not that there's anything wrong with it.

If you're interested in getting set up for this service give we a call and we'lld determine if its appropriate for you.

Software EXPIRATION Date

2009-02-21T13:45:00.000-08:00

Are you aware much of today's software comes with an 'expiration date'? Certainly all that crapware (as it's lovingly refered to in the trade) that came with your computer does.

Trial versions of Norton Anti Virus, Office 2007, etc. are all provided as 'teasers' to encourage you to buy. You use it for a month-or-six and you're hooked. Up pops an invitation to buy the full blown version at a 'nominal cost'; nominal cost....that's a good one....YOU'LL be the judge of that!

Well, constant reader, there ARE alternatives. In virus protection I've been signing my clients up for AVAST! It's a great program that takes up not much space and automatically updates it's virus definitions and database continually. Oh, there may be a better free virus protection out there; we could have that debate. But this one will save you 50$ and a lotta grief.

As for Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, MS Access, etc....), that one is a little tougher. It's a marvelous collection of programs 80-90% of all PC owners use everyday. But there ARE options, and they don't have to be too freaky for you. Open Office makes a free suite of software that has almost ALL of what Microsoft offers, AND you can set it up to read and save files in Microsoft formats so that your friends and business associates can open and alter your files even if they don't use Open Office. So if you can't afford $150+ for the Microsoft Office product then Open Office is the way to go. And the learning curve is virtually FLAT.

So don't let these EXPIRED warnings force you to get your wallet out. Check out these two tips. And if you don't like 'em, money back guarantee (just kidding....I don't recall you spending anything yet).

Neighborhood Computer Services Website
Markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net

Call : 503-530-6623

Attention IPhone Users

2009-01-21T22:02:00.000-08:00

Are you and IPhone or IPod user? Have you come across the dreaded error: 5002? Let me ease your pain. The first place to check, assuming you have an account with the Apple ITunes Store online, is that your account info is up-to-date. If your credit card is on file with Apple and your account is within a month of it's expiration date that's enough to prevent you from being able to add applications or update them on your IPod, IPhone or ITouch. You'll get an Error: 5002 when you try, till you correct the problem.

If you don't have one of these devices then 'never mind'. This post isn't for you.

'...and the Winner is.....'

2009-01-16T09:23:00.000-08:00

What's the #1 complaint on computer users' minds/hearts/souls when they are finally pushed to call for help? The results are in and the winner is....wait for it...

"My computer is so *@#$-ing SLOW!" Sometimes the complaint is followed by 'all of a sudden' or 'I've been living with it for AGES and I'm about ready to throw it off the deck'.

There are a host of reasons for why a computer might 'suddenly' move like a fly on fly paper and here are a just a few, in order of common offense (most of this having a WINDOWS slant):

Too little RAM memory. Yes folks, I know the salesman told you when you bought it that this would be PLENTY good for your purposes. The cold hard truth? ==>>Salesman LIE. There is no such thing as TOO MUCH RAM. It you have any spare change when buying a computer spend it on more RAM. Trust me...you'll be sooooo much happier.
Registry issues need 'curing'. What's a Registry, you might ask? It's a rather important file that Microsoft Windows (all versions) use to tell it who, what and where things are on your computer and what to do with them; and it entirely on it's own over time developes ways about it self that just aren't right.
Virus problems. You thought this one was gonna be 1st, right? Wrong. While still a common problem the other two issues are a bigger head ache for most computers. Didn't renew or replace the FREE trial virus protection when it expired? Shame on you. And there are PLENTY of great free virus protection software programs available.
Spyware issues. Oh yeah, when we get done celebrating the fact that the internet is FREE and UN-regulated we deal with the reality that any website, most in fact, can place small items ON OUR computers that make our machines slow from a run to a stroll to a crawl. Tracking cookies are a big problem because they're like little BEACONS using up your bandwidth (sorry....for the...geek-speak) to tell some commercial entity little things about you and your internet visits that marketing companies pay to know. Sucks, but such is the price of freedom. And spyware protection is NOT the same as virus protect...well, sometimes it is, but 98% of the time it's NOT. You need BOTH. Hey, it's a jungle out there.

But there's GOOD NEWS. It's not broke, it's just ailing. If you don't have hours and hours to research how to fix these problems then it's time I plug what it is I do and offer to come over and fix it for 'ya. Hey, it's what we do.

Wait, wait....I forgot number 5. Your computer is just too OLD. Yep, if it's over eight and you want it to do something more than prop a door open then you are likely to need ALL of the above to keep it going. But some of us would like to keep one more thing out of the landfill and wanna keep the ole machine goin' for a while longer. I repeat: Call us.

Another Phony Story

2008-12-31T20:03:00.000-08:00

Those folks at Apple...they just make fine 'stuff'. Ok, yesterday a phone was just a phone, yes? To make and receive calls? Well, get out of the way because that is so YESTERDAY....I'm sayin' the IPHONE is here...big time.

A phone today can be so much more and for NOT a lot more money. It should still keep us in touch with folks we need to be in touch with....but it is also an information device and an entertainment device.

Don't like the way things are going? You may was well try and turn back time and the tide. Like it or not phones will be mini computers that can 'sing' us to sleep or tell us what's at the movies down the block. It is dangerous to not know what these technological devices are all about. The danger that we'll become 'old' in our thinking and the world will pass us by.

I say it's exciting. And you know, it still has an ON/OFF button.

This is getting Sooooo Old!

2008-12-16T11:17:00.000-08:00

Yeah, I know. Age. It's tough to talk about. But we had this discussion in a previous post and it bears repeating, as a good 'rule of thumb' often does.

Computers, like out pets, age at a different rate than people do. Duh! You've noticed, right? While with our dogs and cats we allow 7 years to one to determine their age in the pet life cycle, with computers its more like 15 to 1. That is to say, a one year old computer is a 'teenager' and a 5 year old computer is passing mid seventies, virtually.

With our pets, no matter HOW much we love them, we begin to examine what is humane for their own good when considering those 'vet' bills; same is true for a PC. Though they can like pets, be born with 'genetic irregularities' that cause them to go 'terminal' early, this 15 to one rule of thumb rule works well in evaluating the computer life cycle. Sure, sometimes they live to be '100', but that is as rare with PCs as it is with people and pets.

It's useful to have this 'age calculator' when facing a PC replacement and if it makes sense to consider 'major surgery', or do we just 'put it down' mercifully. Never and easy decision, but you're the one in charge. Knowledge is power. Make good decisions. Call me when you need me and for the rest of the time 'Good luck with that'.

What? Left overs? Again?

2008-12-10T15:43:00.000-08:00

PC World confirms what most of us have always known...that those warnings from the printer software that we are 'OUT of INK' are usually bogus...that we may in fact have anywhere from 8-45% of the usable ink in a cartridge left over. It ain't right...it ain't fair, but those dudes who make 'em are in charge. Hey, some printers won't even let you go on till you buy and replace a new cartridge...Extortion! And it doesn't matter that you buy refillables....same problem.
>
What's a body to do? Well, for one, don't 'change over' just because they say you're low on ink...wait till your print quality suffers.

Beyond that everything you might to is too much of a hassle. Yeah, I know...you'd hoped there was an INK magic wand....sorry. The good news is that newer printers have become somewhat better at ink utilization...but with printer manufacturers making ALL their money on ink, we consumers are sort of down the ole ink well.

Get Some Class, Will you? Part II

2008-12-06T11:58:00.000-08:00

With the thought being that many may well receive either a computer or a digital camera (or BOTH!) thru the Holidays I'd like to offer a special class in Mid-January geared toward helping folks put their camera to use; then, get the pictures from the camera to their computer, perform minor editing and attach pictures to e-mails. It's a pretty basic class so no special skills are needed...just a will to learn.

If you're interested please call Mark at 503-530-6623 or e-mail to
markd@neighborhoodcomputerservices.net and ask for the full class outline & pricing. I'll only be taking a limited number of students for this class, so contact me NOW, before I run out of space.

Getting Digital Cameras to Work with Computers 101...a four hour class, taught/split between two days.

IPhone...Do you Phone?

2008-12-03T22:23:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I'm a gadget hound; and someone precious to me KNEW I lusted over the 'new' IPhone from Apple...and got it for me.

Is it the greatest? Maybe. I sure am having fun with it though. But if you JUST want a cell phone then this may not be for you. What I'm saying is it DOES require enthusiasm to learn how to use all its bells and whistles.

I mean, I like having my addresses and appointments with me, synced back and forth with my laptop...now I don't need the laptop with me every freaking moment. But knowing the stock market at this moment? Like it but don't NEED it. Having the music from my ITunes/IPod with me all the time on my phone? Well, I don't want to waste precious battery life on music when after all...it's a phone.

Ok, I'm making it sound like I don't love it. That is so NOT true. I do. But as I said from the get-go I'm a gadget nut. I WANT all the stuff I don't need. Voice recorder? Got it. Surf the net on my phone? You bet. Map Quest on my phone? Uh huh...you can't do that? Google Talk Instant Messaging, Google EARTH, Spanish lessons, 158,000 Recipes for what's for dinner...I mean how could anyone live without this STUFF? I want more STUFF in my life.

Ok so you can't do all this on your phone? So call me from your 'weak' phone and I'll tell you all about it. Make you a great deal on my old Verizon basic phone...

How's your OUTLOOK, Group....?

2008-12-02T20:44:00.000-08:00

It's amazing how often I get asked by folks using Microsoft's e-mail program, OUTLOOK: "I regularly send an e-mail to the same group of co-workers (or family)...How do I send the same E-Mail to a particular GROUP of people without having to put in their addresses each time?" No really, I get asked this...Ok, almost never...but here it is anyway.

To create a distribution list using names in the Address Book
First OPEN Microsoft Outlook, then

1. On the File menu, point to New, and then click Distribution List.
2. In the Name box, type a name.
3. Click Select Members.
4. In the Show names from the list, click the address book that contains the e-mail addresses you want in your distribution list.
5. In the Type name or select from list box, type a name you want to include. In the list below, select the name, and then click Members. Do this for each person you want to add to the distribution list, and then click OK.

If you want to add a longer description of the distribution list, click the Notes tab, and then type the text.

The distribution list is saved in your Contacts folder by the name you give it.

There, that was HELPful, wasn't it?

I can't get no.....no no no.....

2008-11-30T19:55:00.000-08:00

I wish I could say I've satisfied EVERY customer who's come to me with a problem; I wish I could say it without lying.

Truth is, I do alright...but 'alright', doesn't make me as happy as perfection would. I hate...I mean I HATE...leaving a job without the work done right, complete and to everyone's satisfaction. Folks have an expectation when they engage me that I'll satisfy them ... It's a realistic expectation, and I try hard...so very hard to exceed that expectation.

But if/when I don't make the grade (and don't get me wrong, it doesn't happen often) I WON'T ever, ever take a dime for my time. You have a right to have your expectations met. My customers can rest easy knowing I'm going to bust my ... my jewels ... to make them glad they called.

Better than anything ... yes, better than my fee....is hearing you say "Thanks. You made my day" whenever I've completed a job. I work hard trying to make friends out of customers; to get them back to seeing how computing can be fun again.

Put me to work for you. I bet you'll be pleased you did.

Look up in the sky...Was that a Comment?...or..."How to leave a comment at a blog site"

2008-11-21T23:24:00.000-08:00

Some of my no-nonsense readers have been so kind as to speak up and say that this blogging thing is cool, 'But how do I leave a comment!' Well to me it all seemed so intuitive and easy. Then I tried again tonight and now I feel your pain.

To post a comment at the end of an article look for the small selectable print that says Comment . Click it to open a new window.
There will be a spot at the lower right to click 'Anonymous'; after selecting that you can fill in your comment. Be cordial and friendly, but brutally honest. And type in your name or whatever nick name you like, so I know which voodoo doll to stick pins in.

Glad just to be Alive

2008-11-11T09:04:00.000-08:00

Yes I know...this is a site about computers. But, every once in a while I wake up just DAMN glad to be alive. And its times like this I think to myself, what can I share with my readers that is NO cost and kinda fun. YES...I really do think that...don't try and say I don't really....cause I DO.

And the link tied to the heading of this post is just such a share. My father, a member of the early HUMAN Potential Movement, was fond of telling people when asked that he thought of himself as an Portrait ART teacher, helping people to paint better pictures of themselves. I've always liked that thought.

So this POST is a diversion....a fun little opportunity to experiment with YOUR artistic talents, always remembering: 'If it worked for Jackson Pollock why not ME?'

Click on http://www.jacksonpollock.org/ Then....
Have fun, live long and prosper.

Oh PS....What made me feel so good? Somebody left a word of encouragement in the comments. See? With life, it's the LITTLE things....

APPLY Yourself!

2008-10-15T22:32:00.000-07:00

NET Appliances? What are those?

Only need internet/e-mail access? You're positively, absolutely sure? Then maybe a really light, really small/portable laptop with wireless capabilities is for you...I've been getting asked about 'em a bit lately.

8" to 10" screens (we're talkin' SMALL), small batteries and small hard disks make these babies lighter than your average laptop. And though they won't be replacing your 'day-job' computer anytime soon, they just might be right for Aunt Minnie or your second travel unit.

Lenovo's S10 should be checked out. click on this subjects heading above for a link to a post site with more detailed info...if this is something YOU'VE been looking for.

And they told you size doesn't matter....

Check out http://www.notebookreview.com/default.asp?newsID=4620 if this type of PC interests you...

MAC ATTACK!

2008-10-11T15:10:00.000-07:00

Ok, so not really an attack, per se, bt more a clarification.

If what you want is steady, reliable computing

Searching MY Blog...Whadya GOT here, anyway?

2008-10-05T13:50:00.000-07:00

You can search my blog for articles on stuff you may be seeking...did you know that? See the seach blog window towards the upper left of the Window? no, NOT THERE! Scroll to the very top of the posts and look at the left...YEAH....THERE!

Just type in the things that interest you relating to computers and see if I've written anything about it. Given enough time, I'll have one or more articles on ALL subjects relating to Mac's and PC's. After your search, just articles with the keywords you've typed in should appear.

Want to see ALL the posts again? Just search again with the window empty and it'll bring 'em all back. Just like magic.

Why Blog?

2008-10-05T13:24:00.000-07:00

So you've wondered, perhaps, WHY do people blog? Or even WHAT is the BIG deal about blogging? Watch this short video and see!

Pasting Youtube video

2008-10-05T12:32:00.000-07:00

Fancy a Lap Dance?

2008-08-22T14:39:00.000-07:00

I often get asked what my favorite laptop is. What? Nobody ever asks you?

Lenovo has been getting the nod for several years now. Never heard of 'em? Where have you been? Lenovo was once upon a time IBM's laptop, before they sold the division to the company that has always made them. IBM is STILL who answers the phone when you call for service. Like just about ALL service centers the person saying 'IBM' may say it with an accent, but hey..so what?

Lenovo is the choice of PC Magazine's readers, too (right after Apple's notebook line). Lenovo consistently scores high for reliability, technical support and low incidence of repairs, when weighted against other PC type laptops.

What do I look for in a Laptop? Way at the top is low weight. I ACTUALLY carry mine from place to place. So, there goes the gorgeous 17" screen, in favor of a very acceptable 14" one. I'd rather squint then lug, and those big screens are outrageously heavy...not to mention more susceptible to damage. Size DOES matter and small is better/lighter.

Additionally I look for long battery life. I have often selected a battery upgrade at purchase, taking a 9 cell or better. And RAM? Only a chump buys less than 2 gigebytes anymore...3 would be 'mo' bedda'. The size of your hard drive depends on your needs. Storing lots of music, photos and/or programs? Then go 160 GB or bigger. And yes, buying a 7,200 RPM hard disk WILL make things run faster.

Want to save money? Save it on software. You can get open source office suite software for free that will read and write Microsoft Office formatted files. Checkout www.openoffice.org. There is no substitute for Microsoft's OUTLOOK if you want a great e-mail handler, scheduler, calendar program. I buy it separate and save several hundred.

Hey, listen...if you don't agree with my picks or have favorites of your own then leave me a comment.

.

...Get the Picture?

2008-07-29T08:31:00.000-07:00

Staying with the theme of getting pictures from a digital camera ON to your Computer, and then organizing and editing the images...Picasa comes to mind.

Picasa is a free program (from the people who bring you Google). It downloads on to your computer and facilitates the picture handling process. There are some EXCELLENT online videos that walk you thru the process and I'll post them really soon.

There are MANY ways to handle pictures, but Picasa is pretty cool. Additionally, if you have a google/gmail account (also free) Google gives you space to store pictures online and share them with friends and family. How cool is THAT?

Want a short course on how to use PICASA? Just play the video below. For those of us with weak eyesight there is a small box to the right of the speaker icon at the lower right of the Video window that will let you 'blow it up' to full size. Enjoy!

Morning at the Oasis - Digital Cams

2008-06-16T11:43:00.000-07:00

I think I've mentioned before how the Oasis Center, Macy's Bldg. 4th Floor, Downtown PDX, is a great resource for folks over 50 who wish to hone computer skills. For very little bread you can take a class, or just float in and use the 9 Windows XP or 9 Windows Vista computers available in the lab. Pretty neat.

But what ALSO seems to be pretty neat is the number of ladies and gents who line up to learn how to use digital cameras with their PC's. This is perhaps the most popular class I've offered there and it just gets better each time we offer it.

Folks have these cameras but little to NO idea how to take pictures (or even know that they can take movies, too, with the same camera); and once they DO take one, how to edit it and attach it to an email of make a slide show of photos.

Call me, or Oasis (503) 241-3059 and ask how you can get on the list for this fun class.

Feeling a little Green around the....?

2008-04-23T14:18:00.000-07:00

So these days it seems folks are upgrading to newer computer gear and the question becomes "That do I do with my 'old' one (your old one being that machine you bought 5 short years ago!).

Well, there are going to be fewer and fewer choices soon, as Portland shifts it's recycling attention to deal with the mountains of old computer gear building up at landfills.

Thank god for FREE GEEKS, and others like them that handle hi tech waste and reduce it to its lowest common denominator, or better yet, recondition it and find it a new home. The Free Geeks folks (1731 SE 10th Ave, Portland, OR) ask only a small donation and that you drop your equipment of during normal working hours, M-Sat.

You MAY wish to remove certain components you could be using with your NEW computer, such as hard drive, CD/DVD drive and the like...but either way, isn't it nice to know your old gear will be handled in an environmentally sensitive manner? We think it is.

So...need help removing components to save? What? You thought we were going to pass up a chance to pitch our services? Call US and ask for a free estimate for decommissioning your old machine. After all, at the very least you don't want those pictures of the kids out there for some new user of your old stuff to be gawking at...I mean, I know they're cute, but.....

You've Got Mail!

2008-03-07T08:37:00.000-08:00

Well, a few weeks ago I taught a class of enthusiastic E-Mailers covering different ways to 'Do Mail'. With E-Mail now the number one use of computers and by FAR the largest communication vehicle on the planet (Bigger than TV, radio, phone or postal mail), it seemed to make sense to teach to the needs.

People wanted to know things like:

How do I access and make changes in my electronic address book?
How do I permanently delete mail, or move it to a new 'folder'?
What's the fastest way to add a contact to my address book who JUST sent me an E-Mail?
I see a calendar here...how can I use it to help me remember appointments and important dates?
Do I need to pay for Hi-Speed AND AOL? (No, by the way...you sure don't!)
How do I move my mail and address book from one E-Mail program to another?
How do I sign up for an additional FREE E-Mail account(s)?
How do I deal with attachments? Add a picture or file to my E-Mail
Send one E-mail to many people at once.
What is an E-Mail address book GROUP?

I can't tell you how fun it is to answer questions like these and have people leave happy. I can't tell you that is, unless you e-mail me or call me. Maybe there is something you've wanted to do with E-Mail, or that digital camera or.... We can help with that. Call or write us.

ADVERTIZING!

2007-11-05T17:38:00.000-08:00

Well, welcome to any that have found me thru the magic of advertising. I'm out there in a number of spots now, to help new friends find me. If you find me either thru this blog or via the NW Examiner please mention that you did. Its worth 10% off your next bill with Neighborhood Computer Services, just by telling me you read it here!

Some are missing the way a blog works. I don't just 'pontificate' here, but really seek your tips and incites to share. I learn more from my customers (and employees) than I have in ANY computer course I've ever attended. So add what you will to any of my articles...even if you go 'off subject'. Its interesting to read a new tip but its TONS more fun to add one. Be my guest.

Get some Class, will you?

2007-10-15T12:22:00.000-07:00

S0 in a previous post I mentioned that this Winter I'd be teaching classes to 'qualifying' folks thru the Oasis Center, which is moving back into the Macy's Building in downtown Portland, OR
They have other offerings by other teachers (but mine are always fun).

To get more info call the Oasis people at 503-413-5563

Get More Out of E-Mail – a frank discussion of the options for e-mailing
Wed. Feb. 20 10-noon

How can I make e-mail easy; what are my e-mail provider options and how do I pick one; are AOL/MSN, etc. worth the expense; how do I attach pictures and files to my e-mail; what do I do when I get an attachment; what is the difference between Outlook and Outlook Express and which is ‘better’. This course is both a general and specific look at e-mail options for the new and not so new to e-mail.

Music and Pictures…They’re worth a 1,000 words –
Wed. Apr. 16 10-noon

Do you have a digital camera or an IPOD and no idea how to connect it to your computer? How does one organize and manage their files? What about buying music online… how does that work? It’s all easier than you might thing. Learn how to enjoy more than just e-mail on your computer. Students are encouraged, but not required, to bring laptops and cameras or IPods, if they have them.

Going, Going, Gone! Buying & selling on e-Bay & Craig’s List –
Wed. Mar. 19 10-noon

You’ve heard it’s dangerous to buy things online and yet millions do it every day. Learn how to take advantage of these online market places to find and/or sell things for fun and profit.

Oasis...your horrizons expanded..

2007-10-15T11:55:00.000-07:00

The Oasis Center in Portland Oregon will be moving back to the Macy's Building (formerly Meir and Frank) with expanded computer services available for folks over 50. Eight Window XP stations and eight Windows Vista stations will double the Center's capacity. Classes will be available at little to no cost covering a number of subjects for the inquiring mind. I'll be teaching several and will write with a description and schedule as soon. If you are willing to admit you've become senior to some, you owe it to yourself to check this place out.

Flash me....Please!

2007-09-30T18:21:00.000-07:00

I have a few who still ask me what a flash drive is, and I don't see that as some admission of computer ignorance. Not at all.

A flash drive is a device that plugs into your computer quite easily and acts like a very small hard drive. Well, NOT so small, actually. You can get them now as large as several gigabytes. Oh, yeah...Gigabyte...that's a measure of size on a storage device.

What's a flash drive useful for? Well, you COULD use it as sort of a backup device to keep a copy of important data....documents, pictures, music...and the like.

They're quite handy, really, and they fit in your pocket or on a key chain...we're talking small and portable. You can buy a 2 gigabyte Flash Drive for about the cost of what a box or two of floppy disks used to cost...you remember those? And you can put about 2,000 floppy disks worth of information on a two gigabyte drive. Are you keeping up?

So what are they, again? : A really small, really inexpensive, really portable storage device that is worth looking into.

Call or write me and ask questions about flash drives, if you like. I'll get back to you in a flash!

Yeah, its new today, but will it be 'history' tomorrow?

2007-09-01T20:36:00.000-07:00

A lot of folks have gone out and spent good money on a laptop or desktop computer for their kid(s) to use at school; I hope they let their kids pick them out.

Well meaning parents, wanting desperately to keep the college costs under control skimp and buy under powered PC's/laptops only to later discover they've been penny wise and pound foolish. Take notes here, save a dime or two and avoid the 'instant obsolescence' trap:

1st: There is NO SUCH THING as TOO much RAM memory. RAM is a bad place to skimp; if you don't know what I'm talking about, just trust me and buy a machine with 2 GB of RAM.

2nd: Does the machine include the software the user needs for school? Probably better have them add Microsoft Office Basic, which includes most of what any student will need.

3rd: Ask for an Intel 'dual core 2' processor or better. Again, trust me...the Celeron processors suck; they just do. The ADM chips MAY be fine, but Intel is ALWAYS a safe bet.

4th: Yes, every college kid needs a WI-FI wireless card. No ifs, ands, or buts. Hi-School kids need 'em, too.

There's lots more to tell, but if you follow these 4 rules the rest will fall into place. If you disregard these rules you've just bought a machine that is yesterday's technology today.

Living Wirelessly....It's in the Air...

2007-07-07T14:14:00.000-07:00

Well, if you live long enough, you'll experience everything....almost...so they say. Like the time I was ABSOLUTELY, POSITIVELY sure that a cordless (wireless) phone next to a desktop computer couldn't be causing it to drop the connection to the wireless internet signal in the house. No way! I mean there was another wireless computer just 4' away, and IT had NO problems.

Silly me. 'Expect the obvious and eliminate that first', is the unwritten rule of computer repair. May it be tattooed on my forehead for violating this one. My recommendation? Make sure when you are computing wirelessly that cell phones/cordless phones/radio(s) are not sitting right next to your computer or wireless router; allow six feet or more. Duh!

Spring is in the air ... time to go Wireless

2007-05-06T14:29:00.000-07:00

If you've only one hi-speed modem in the house and you have more than one computer it's time to go wireless; in fact, it's past time. And the good news is it's fast and inexpensive to hook up. What's that you say? You aren't that techno-savy? Well that just makes me smile!

A wireless router can be as little as $3-$5 per month more than you pay now, if you are renting your modem from Qwest or Comcast; or if you prefer you can buy a wireless router for like $59-$79. Adding it to your system can take an hour or less. And if you like you can even arrange to slit your monthly internet access cost with a neighbor! Now that's using your head!

Call or e-mail me ... and end your wait to get to use the internet at home.

Older than God! or ... When to buy a NEW PC.

2007-04-19T05:51:00.000-07:00

Just as a dog's years are 7 to one, computers have a ratio that exceeds our aging span. Folks often ask me if they should keep and upgrade their computer or dump and replace. There IS a rule of thumb and the ratio is more like 15-1. That is:

Year 1 & 2 - Computer is like 1-30 : In its prime. Ask yourself, "How are things working? Do I need more RAM memory (more about that in another post elsewhere)? Do I need a 'check up' with a service technician"?
Year 3 & 4 - By the end of year 4, I hate to say it but you have a computer Senior Citizen on your hands. Not that that's any crime, but upgrades are almost too late to do much good to extend the life of your machine. Life is cruel but, though it still may have a lot to contribute, your computer is just NOT a kid any more.
Year 5 and above - Hey, it's a bear being over 75, but its not the end of life as we know it. With some tender loving care your computer will still give you good service. Have a 'computer Doctor' do an exam and consultation, but keep the money you spend on this cherished family member reasonable, given that it won't be doing 'Internet Disco' much anymore, likely.

Bottom line? Over 5 years of age replacement is probably a better choice than expensive upgrades. The world around the computer is moving so fast that software tools, graphics's from the internet and e-mails become more complex and begin to over tax older machines. Hey, if you are over 50 you KNOW what I'm talking about. We still have plenty we can contribute, but we aren't able to leap tall buildings in a single bound anymore. It's just a fact of life.

Backing up I stumbled on....Eternity. (Revisited)

2007-04-17T11:56:00.000-07:00

In my earlier article on the importance of backing up ANYTHING that you'd miss if it were gone (like that Outlook address book you've spent the last 5 years building!), I neglected to really thoroughly check out PC World users' recommendation of the FREE on line back up service MOZY. As this issue came up with a client, I owe it to my constant/periodic/infrequent and first time readers to say ... 'It ain't bad'! Now if you know me, that's high praise.

The site requires a member to sign up and some free software is loaded to your computer which allows you to set the time you'd like automatic back ups scheduled, and which files. You are allowed up to 2 GB (for many thats plenty) for free and charged if you need more. The first back up of 2 GB of data may take like 5 hours or more depending on your connection, so go get a cup of coffee .... a Venti size ... and maybe read War and Peace again, from the start. But subsequent back ups are quick, if you run them regularly.

I still am partial to having my own External Hard Drive for back ups ... but this on-line system is really very acceptable. For some it might be back up paradise. Call or write me if you'd like to know more.

Did you forget something? It's probably just your memory.

2007-04-07T07:44:00.000-07:00

Many problems for computers (and humans, too) relate to not having enough memory. RAM, also know as Random Access Memory, is every bit as important to computers as adequate brain power is to us; not enough and we just can't manage important, complicated tasks ... sort of like chewing gum and walking at the same time, if you know what I mean.

The symptom, when computing any way, is often general sluggishness, repeated hanging or locking up of the computer; occasionally but rarely you may even see an error message mentioning insufficient memory.

Fortunately in the computer RAM memory is easily added. In fact it's SO easy I almost feel guilty charging my clients for doing it for them ... BUT I get over it! If you want to do your own memory upgrade I can tell you in a quick, 'no-charge' phone call how to proceed. If you're less adventurous I'd gladly be of service.

Sit down...I think I love you!

2007-04-04T14:05:00.000-07:00

Some of us spend what seems like forever in a chair beating words and numbers into a computer and having the wrong chair is a just a big pain. I did some shopping (where else? on line!) and found what I hoped would be an affordable alternative to the Herman Miller Aron Chair, which is the recognized favorite amongst business users and upwardly mobile Fuppies (failed Yuppies). The Herman Miller chair costs 750-1,200 clams or more ... just unreachable for the practical user.

I've got great news to report ... I ordered my 'alternative chair' and I absolutely love it. It's ruggedly constructed, very similar in appearance and design to the H. MILLER chair, incredibly adjustable and, I sit on it all day without a single complaint from my nether end.

Call or write me and I'll share the details. Oh yeah, it's still not cheap ... Did I mislead you? It cost $550 I think. But that is still 36-118% savings, depending how you calculate, over the Miller chair .

Crash Recovery now offered!

2007-04-02T17:00:00.000-07:00

We've just added computer hard disk crash recovery to our bag of tricks, for the folks who won't head my warnings about the importance of backing up your system. Yes, in many cases most, if not all, of what you lost when your system 'died' may be recoverable. To many, we'll just grit our teeth and get over it. To some, recovery would be an answer to an anguished prayer.

Call or write to get more info.

Backing up I stumbled on....Eternity.

2007-04-02T16:50:00.000-07:00

Backing up...what a hassle! And why bother? We only need it when we loose everything we hold dear to us that's on our computers; and even then we only need it right before that happens.

Not backing up your data? Well I mean, folks, we got trouble, right here in River City. With a capital 'T' and rhymes with 'B' and stands for BACK UP. When? Just every time you change something on your computer that would cause you to look for the nearest bridge if you should loose it.

Now you can do it yourself, or you can subscribe to an on-line back up service (expensive), or you can pay a consultant to set up a back up routine for you that borders on automatic. How much is that gonna cost me? Well, my friend, a call or an e-mail and we can answer that question in a minute or so....painlessly.

Backing up is like an insurance policy. Would you drive your car without one? Well, that would be just wrong (and illegal). I recommend you get a back up 'thingie' going soon and save yourself some serious grief.

Write....Right now!

2007-03-27T08:13:00.000-07:00

Since we touched on writing, and the fact that there is a wonderful suite of free applications, including a free WORD compatible word processor available for the asking (you haven't e-mailed me to ask for more info? Tsk, tsk)... I should mention that you can get a pretty good word processor on-line with Google DOCS. What's that you say? Write on!

Google docs allows you to have documents stored on line or saved on your computer. The on-line docs can be shared with others, if you need to collaborate. It will allow you to import or export MS Word files, amongst others. This system is really useful if you are traveling, don't have your computer handy and have to work from someone else's; planning ahead a document you've been working on can follow you wherever in the world you might go.

Google docs can be found by pointing your browser to: http://docs.google.com/
Are spreadsheets available the same way, you ask. Why"YES", as a matter of fact, they are.

"You never call...You never write..."

2007-03-21T12:38:00.000-07:00

So which is the absolute BEST e-mail program/service out there? There are volumes written on this subject without a definitive answer offered. Seems there is room for personal preference, (isn't there always). Having said that, there are reasons so many business & home users alike choose Microsoft Outlook (or Outlook Express) as their e-mail 'client', regardless of whether they have e-mail through their business, or use Comcast, Hotmail, Yahoo or G-Mail as their e-mail service provider.

Outlook Express is a fine e-mail program and comes free with virtually all PC's these days, but its' big brother, Microsoft OUTLOOK, is MY personal pick. In addition to the ability to handle incoming, outgoing and mail history flawlessly, Outlook has the ability to save an e-mail to it's built-in calendar, which pops them back up at a date of your choosing ... 'set it and forget it'.

Appointments, to-do tasks all can be scheduled and if you so desire invitations to meeting attendees are easily e-mailed as a reminder to them as well. I also really like the way the OUTLOOK address book works and that it can important and export addresses as needed.

Amongst the free e-mail providers, I personally use Yahoo Mail, more from habit than anything else. I've set others up with Hotmail and Google G-Mail accounts just as often. They all are good and for home use any limitations are negligible. I say listen to what your friends tell you about what they are using, and why. Word of mouth is always the best endorsement, unless it's from someone you hates you; in that case, never mind.

...and in the Begining....

2007-03-20T22:45:00.000-07:00

I was inspired by by folks younger than me, who see see more clearly what can be done here, of the concept of a Web-Log [blog] as a space to communicate the 'Good News' of computing , and how to do it for not much money. When I hear talk like that, well, I listen.

This space will attempt to show the possibilities and ease the fears regarding what help can be found to make the use of computers pleasurable, as it should be. After all, if computers were just fine tools for work then what fun would that be? They certainly wouldn't command the time they do with Americans 14-35 years of age. For this age group computer time now surpasses television time, as "I'll be on the net just a few more minutes!" replaces "I want my MTV!".

So if you're reading this, lets get it on....Want to know how to get anti-virus and anti-spy-ware protection or a really good substitute for Microsoft Office all absolutely positively FREE?

Then send an e-mail to me at ncservices@comcast.net and ask. I live to serve.