General Info

How Should I Back Up My Media And Data Files?

Question:

You may know the feeling. That sinking feeling you get deep in your gut that tells you something just went horribly, horribly wrong with your computer. It's usually confirmed when you navigate to your photos, music, or documents folder and find... that... it's... EMPTY. Or maybe you try to access the file and get some strange error, or your computer locks up, never to be resurrected again.

Because of this type of devastating occurrence, one of the most common questions I get is: "How should I back up files on my computer?" You'd think it would be easy, but the truth is that there are a lot of ways to safeguard your digital loot - and I'd like to help make a little more sense of them.

From Acer's Aspire One to the MSI Wind... A Netbook Buyer's Guide

Even though I'm a Mac guy at heart, even I'll admit that I would like to get a netbook this Christmas. Indeed, packed with power and light on the wallet, netbooks make a great gift for the laptop-hungry on a budget. I might even gift one to myself sometime soon!

Best Sites and Apps For Reading News On Your iPhone

I'll confess... I've been a little obsessed with the news lately. What with the recent presidential election and the ongoing financial disaster, it seems only natural to be more interested in tailing current events than ever. It took a while for me to truly jump on board, but once I got all my RSS feeds up and running, synced with NetNewsWire, and ready to go, I'm a virtual dumping ground for all things headline.

Tech, finance, and world news updates pour into my reader(s) faster than bailout money into AIG's coffers, and I can barely keep up.

That being said, I'm fortunate enough to possess one of the best mobile news readers around: the iPhone.

15 Ways to Stop Technology From Emptying Your Wallet

Times are tough. Families are on budgets. Your 401k has taken a beating. In times of economic turmoil, it's often necessary to take a look at the family budget and get yourself back on track. While many will first think to switch to generic food items, buy everyday products in bulk, and forego highlights and spa treatments, what most may not realize is how much the technologies we use everyday are affecting our bank accounts.

How To Get Rid Of Virus and Spyware Infections on Windows XP PC's

Recently, Revelations2212 posted a question to the experts: "I have some nasty spyware or adware on my PC. I have ran Ad-Aware, Spybot and Anti-Malware and I can't get it removed. I have done everything I can think of, can someone give me some suggestions on what to do? What is the best spyware / adware remover out there? I need it badly, as this has been going on for more than a week now."

I've decided to tackle this question since it seems to be the root of the vast majority of people's computer related issues, and in many instances, can be easily resolved. I'd like to share some of my personal insights and experiences, gleaned over the years from helping dozens of people with this type of issue.

How To Play Your iPod In Your Car

User amanda69 submitted an awesome question about using her iPod MP3 player. She's wondering how she can connect her iPod to her car stereo.

A little background, first - Amanda has a Hyundai coupe, and I do as well. I also listen to my MP3 player through my car stereo, so this question really hits home for me. I'm guessing that many of you out there haven't even used a CD in months or maybe even years - personally, I can't remember the last time I played a CD in the car.

Amanda, you'll be happy to know that there are a number of different ways that you can listen to your iPod in your car.