For many years, I’ve recovered data from defunct computers for my customers. But having changed to a remote support role, this service is one of the few things I can no longer offer. So, I think it’s time I describe this process in detail, in case some of you are comfortable doing it yourself. Update … Read more
Once or twice a year*, your computer needs dusting! Their grills and cooling elements attract dust, and too many years of particulate build-up can lead to overheating and shorter lifespans. An inexpensive can of compressed air is all you need to knock loose any accumulated dirt. Here’s an example of what to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Falcon-Compressed-Disposable-Cleaning-DPSJB/dp/B0000AE67M Shoot … Read more
When a phone gets wet, many people immediately rush to get a bag of rice. Don’t do this. Resting a soaked phone among dry grains of rice does very little to draw out moisture. And it can encourage starchy particles to get up inside your device, worsening its condition. I know this may hard to … Read more
Last year, Logitech came out with these fab new universal remotes with Alexa built-in! But things didn’t go so well, and Logitech has decide to retire these remotes. Because these things are reliant on their links to the internet, apps & Amazon, they will stop working when Logitech shuts down their associated connections. If you … Read more
Just don’t. It’s a trap. No good can come of it. It’ll all end in tears. Please don’t buy that laptop. I’m talking about the Windows laptops that are out there for $200 (or less). I call them traptops. They look and sound awesome, from the marketing! Especially on Black Friday or Prime Day, but … Read more
Apple has really stepped up their technology recycling efforts. Check out their website for trade-ins and recycling: https://www.apple.com/shop/trade-in First, Apple is willing to consider any of their devices for trade-in value towards your next Apple purchase. That means iMacs, Macbooks, iPhones, etc. You can use the website to get an estimate or you can carry … Read more
If you lose your smartphone or tablet, don’t give up hope. That goes for stolen devices, too. You may be able to locate your device! Android and Apple devices offer tracking tools, built-in to their accounts and devices, and they are free for all to use. The Tools On a computer, open your browser and … Read more
Installing a printer? You typically won’t use a CD these days, everything comes from the internet. So if it’s an older device, don’t fret if the disc has gone missing. You just need to download your printer software. And this is always done for free! For HP devices, go to https://support.hp.com/us-en/driversFor Epson printers, try https://epson.com/Support/sl/sFor Brother devices, … Read more
The summertime heat has arrived! Here’s your annual reminder: Don’t Leave Laptops in Hot Cars. Same goes for your other tech items, like tablets, phones, portable game consoles. Computers and other devices are vulnerable to the extreme temperatures inside of a car’s cabin. In very little time, heat build-up in your vehicle can bake your … Read more
The hard drive in your computer is going to wear down some day and fail. Everyone hopes their hard drive will last a long time, and most do. But hard drive death is unpredictable, and your computer may give you no warning about what’s coming. As your computer ages and slows down, you can spot-check … Read more