 | Increase Smartphone Battery Life
9 Ways to Increase Smartphone Battery Life
- Set your device to automatically turn off at night.
- Only use the vibration setting when necessary.
- Use short ring tones.
- Reduce the display brightness level.
- Keep GPS usage at a minimum.
- Limit RSS feeds.
- Limit Facebook notifications.
- Turn off Wi-Fi when not in use.
- Turn off Bluetooth when not in use.
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| Internet Browsing Safety 101
Internet Browsing Safety 101
Do not have any websites open which use a password such as banking sites, Facebook, or shopping websites while you are browsing.
If you're unsure of the sites you will be browsing, use Mozilla Firefox in Safe Mode.
Close any programs in which you might type confidential information.
Think before you click that link.
Never click on a pop-up that indicates your computer is vulnerable.
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| Save Energy and Have Your Computer Boot Up Fa
Save Energy and Have Your Computer Boot Up Faster
Use Hibernate instead of powering the computer off.
This may take an extra few seconds as the computer is storing open programs and files to the hard disk. The benefit is boot time is substantially reduced and the computer uses no power in Hibernation mode.
Sleep mode is another option, but does use power when in this state.
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| Homelink – Helpful or Harmful?
Homelink – Helpful or Harmful?
Many new cars come with a feature called Homelink.
What Homelink does is allow the programming of a button in the car to open garage doors, security gates, and control lights.
While Homelink is nice because it doesn’t require keeping a separate remote control garage door opener in the car, it has a dark side.
If a Homelink equipped vehicle is stolen, it makes it very easy for the thief to get inside the garage, and once in the garage can work on breaking into the home without being seen.
Remember, people are use to seeing the same vehicle pull into the driveway.
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| Summer Photography Fun
Summer Photography Fun
Summer is a great time for family fun, vacationing and warm weather adventures AND we all want to capture those precious moments with our digital cameras.
When capturing that moment to last a lifetime… follow these photo tips:
1: Watch for Interesting Angles
Shoot up or down, lay down on the ground. Whatever it takes.
2: Experiment!
Shooting more used to cost more, now it doesn’t.
Walk around your subject.
3: Consider Black and White
Some pictures just look better that way.
4: Horizontal or Vertical?
Most cameras are designed to be held for a horizontal image, but your subject may look better if you turn your camera to frame up a vertical photograph.
With photography there are tips and there are guidelines... but there is only one rule.
Back up, Back up, Back up!
Onto a CD, DVD, or external hard drive and get it out of the house.
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| Flip Style Video Buying Questions
Flip Style Video Buying Questions
Before purchasing a new portable video recorder, consider these questions.
Will the battery life be sufficient, or do you need a device with a replaceable battery?
Would a device with built-in memory work or would one with a removable memory card be better?
Do you need image stabilization?
Would the ability of using a portable microphone be beneficial?
Do you require a waterproof video camera?
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| Facebook Privacy
Facebook Privacy
While security is important for adults, it is crucial for children. If your children use Facebook, here are some suggestions.
Limit access to pictures, birthday, religious and political views.
Be careful sharing information such as your address, mobile phone and home phone.
Restrict access to who can post or make comments on the wall, to keep inappropriate material off the page.
You can also eliminate their page from the Public Search Results.
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| Social Media Safety Tips
Social Media Safety Tips
Do not use your real date of birth in a social media profile.
Do not use the names of children in any caption or when tagging photos.
Do not state you will be going on vacation or away from home.
Be very careful in who you invite into your group.
Be very careful about accepting invitations from others.
Even though you may be careful with what you post, others may not.
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| Safe Wireless Connection Tips
Tips for Keeping Your Wireless Connection Safe
The first line of defense is a software firewall. Many computers come with Windows Firewall. While not optimum, this is a no-cost option worth using.
Use websites which are secure whenever possible. These are sites which have an https:// in front of the address and show a lock.
Keep your software updated with the latest security patches.
Use strong passwords and change them frequently when possible. Strong passwords include: numbers, upper and lower case letters, and symbols.
Be careful sending or receiving email and using instant messaging programs. Assume someone is watching everything you type.
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| Turn Your BlackBerry Into a Flashlight for Fr
Turn Your BlackBerry Into a Flashlight for Free
Using the method below, you can have a powerful flashlight with you everywhere you take your BlackBerry.
Scroll to the Video Camera and click
Press the “BlackBerry” menu button.
Scroll to Options and click
Scroll to Video Light and click
Scroll to On and click
Press the Return button
Click on Save
Use the following procedures to have very fast access to the flashlight you just created.
Scroll to Options and click
Scroll to Screen/Keyboard and click
Scroll down to the Right Side and Left Side Convenience Keys
Choose either key and click the item it opens
Scroll to Video Camera and click
Press the Return button
Click on Save
Now go into a dark space and try it.
Enjoy.
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| Easy Method for Creating Strong Passwords
Easy Method for Creating Strong Passwords
The best practices for passwords include; numbers, upper and lower case letters, and symbols. It is also highly recommended to change passwords often. The problem with this is many people forget their passwords or write them on paper or document them on their computer, defeating the purpose of security.
An easy way to create and remember passwords is to make a sentence. Write out the sentence using proper punctuation and capitals where required. Substitute appropriate symbols if possible.
Here are two examples.
Sentence: I have been a Yankees fan since 1985.
Password: Ihb@Yfs1985.
Sentence: The Boston Red Sox won the World Series in 2007.
Password: TBRSwtWSi2007.
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| Track Your Work in Outlook
Get The Boss to Give You Credit for All Your Work Using Microsoft Outlook
Microsoft Outlook provides a good method for tracking what work you perform on a daily basis and which accounts or contacts it is for. Unfortunately this feature is not enabled by default, but this is easily remedied.
Open Outlook
Click Tools
Click Options
Click Journal Options which is about midway down the page
Check the items you want recorded
Check the items you want to record files from
Lastly check the contacts you want them tracked for
Click OK to save
You will need to periodically review your contact list in this section as new contacts are not added by default.
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| 3 Things Don Corleone Could Learn From The Bo
3 Things Don Corleone Could Learn About Google Search From The Boss at HITman Services
1) Someone called Don Corleone’s cell phone (his mobile phone, not the phone in his cell) and he wants to check out who called. In the Google search bar he could type phonebook:714-867-5309 because that is the number of the person who called him. (Note this only works for residences and published numbers.)
2) Don Corleone now decides he needs more information about where this person lives, so he types in the area code 714 into the Google search bar.
3) In a meeting, Don Corleone needs to calculate the VIG (interest payment on a loan). In the Google search bar he types in 253500 which is the amount of the loan, the * and .08 which is the weekly interest rate.
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| An Easy Way to Switch Monitor Displays
An Easy Way to Switch Monitor Displays
Several high end notebooks have a button which allows changing monitor settings quickly.
Windows 7 adds a new command which is almost as good and does not require purchasing an expensive notebook.
Simply press the “Windows” key, plus the “p” key and choose which monitor setting you want.
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| 10 Surefire Signs That You Are Infected With
10 Surefire Signs That You Are Infected With Spyware, Malware, and Viruses
Since most malicious programs are designed to hide themselves, detecting their existence is not always easy. However, there are a few surefire signs that you have been infected:
1 - You start getting swamped with pop-up ads that seem to come from nowhere and constantly interrupt your use of the computer.
2 - Your computer is unstable, sluggish, locks up, or crashes frequently.
3 - Your web browser's home page changes on its own and you cannot modify the settings. You may also see toolbars on your web browser that you did not set up.
4 - You get a second or third web browser popping up behind your main browser that you didn’t open or request.
5 - Mysterious files suddenly start appearing.
6 - Your CD drawer starts opening and closing by itself.
7 - You get constant runtime errors in Microsoft Outlook or Outlook Express.
8 - You find emails in your "Sent Items" folder that you didn't send.
9 - Some of your files are moved or deleted or the icons on your desktop or toolbars are blank or missing.
10 - You suddenly see your self appear in a window from your webcam.
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| Alert - Internal Revenue Service Fake Notice
Alert - Fake Internal Revenue Service Email Circulating
The latest scam to hit is one which is especially devious as it instills fear in most Americans.
The email states in the subject line something to the effect of "Under Reported Income Notice".
Once opened, it starts its insidious work by downloading software to steal sensitive data such as bank information.
In the event the link in the email was clicked, unplug the computer from the Internet and contact a professional to help resolve the issue.
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| Keep Your iTunes Library Safe For Free
Keep Your iTunes Library Safe For Free
If you are one of the millions who has an iPod and is concerned about losing your music library, here is a solution.
CopyTrans is a free download which will backup: music, videos, podcasts, audio books, and much more from your iPod to your computer.
CopyTrans also offers other programs for iPods and iPhones which make transferring to and from a PC simple and convenient.
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| Facebook Alert - Virus Targets Password Theft
Facebook Alert - Virus Targeting Theft of Passwords
Be advised there is a new virus which is circulating through the Internet via email.
The email explains that the users password for their Facebook account has been reset and recommends they click an attachment or link to get their new password.
This virus, as with all similar style emails, only works if the recipient clicks the link in the email.
Remember, it is never good to click an embedded email link.
For details on how to reduce threats, please visit our website as we have several free reports which can help.
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| Twitter Adds Location Service
Twitter Adds Location Service
Twitter recently added a tweet your location option to their service.
Here are a few things to keep in mind if you have a twitter account and decide to enable to location option.
Your location will be stored along with your tweets. People will know where you were when you tweeted.
Your tweet will be in the public domain once you post it.
Even if you disable location sharing later, any tweets which were previously posted with your location will still be there.
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| How Safe Are Facebook Private Messages?
How Safe Are Facebook Private Messages
On February 26th, a bug in Facebook’s update sent private messages intended for one person to strangers. This is just the latest in concerns over privacy.
The safest method to correspond with people over the Internet is with a private email account.
With free or public email accounts the security is generally not nearly as good. In addition, many free email companies review email messages in order to provide “appropriate” advertising to the account holder.
As the old saying goes, there is no free lunch.
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| Is a Web Beacon reporting on your email?
Is a Web Beacon reporting on your email?
A Web Beacon is an image which gets embedded into an email. When you open the email, the Web Beacon reports back to the person or company sending the email that it has been read.
Web Beacons can also report if the email was forwarded to someone else. They also have the ability to send your IP (Internet Protocol) address along with time and date information.
If you are using a newer version of Microsoft Outlook and did not modify the security settings, you should be OK.
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| BlackBerry Camera and Video Tips
BlackBerry Camera Tips
Press or click the Camera button
Press the BlackBerry (menu) button
Scroll to and click Options
To Enable Flash
Scroll to Flash and choose On from the dropdown menu
To Set the Picture Quality
Scroll to Picture Quality and choose which setting you prefer from the dropdown menu
To Choose the Size
Scroll to Picture Size and choose the size you prefer from the dropdown menu
Press the Return button and click Save
BlackBerry Video Tips
To Zoom In
Use the trackball to scroll up or to the right
To Zoom Out
Use the trackball to scroll down or to the left
To Start, Stop and Pause
Press the trackball
To send a video via MMS
Press the BlackBerry (menu) button
Scroll to and click Options
Scroll to and click the dropdown next to Video Format
Choose MMS
Press the Return key and click Save
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| Save Energy and Time
Save Energy and Time
We get asked frequently if computers should be turned off or left running. Hibernation is a good compromise.
When possible, turn on hibernation by clicking the Start button, clicking Shutdown and choosing hibernation.
The benefit is it will leave your computer as is. If you have Outlook open, a spreadsheet and a browser window, they will all be in the same state when you power the computer back on.
The power used by hibernation mode is about the same as if the computer was simply plugged in and turned off.
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| Don’t Get Locked Out
Don’t Get Locked Out
A great new feature in Microsoft Windows 7 is the ability to create a password reset disk in the event you forget your password, it gets reset and no longer works or for any other reason.
With the password reset disk a major issue and/or cost is averted. All it takes is a few minutes of your time and following the instructions on this page.
To create a password reset disk in Window 7, follow the steps below.
1.) Have a USB drive or removable memory handy
2.) Click on the Start button
3.) Click on the Control Panel button
4.) Click on the User Accounts button - (If you are using Category view, click on User Accounts and Family Safety first
5.) Insert your memory into the computer
6.) Click the link “Create a password reset disk” in the left navigation bar
7.) Choose the proper drive from the list
8.) Enter your current password
9.) Click Next
10.) Remember to stop the USB or memory service before you remove the memory device
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| TV and Movies on the Web
Do you find yourself working late and in need of a break?
Navigate to hulu.com where they have hundreds of movies and TV programs available for free download.
The quality of their videos are very good and there is no need to create an account to watch.
Check with your company before watching at work as this is bandwidth intensive and may violate the company's computer use policy.
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| Speed Up Your Computer Part 2
Speed Up Your Computer Part 2
Many new computers come with software called trial-ware. Examples included Quicken, Office and games. They are called trial-ware because they can be used for x amount of days or x amount of times being accessed.
Sometimes these programs have processes which run in the background, causing your computer to run slow.
Uninstall the trial-ware can help your computer run faster and use less disk space.
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| Speed Up Your Computer Part 1
Speed Up Your Computer Part 1
Remove auto-loading software.
Many times when software gets loaded, a component is installed which loads the software or a portion of the software in the auto-start section.
When you log in to your computer these programs load. The more programs which load, the longer it takes for your computer to finish the boot process.
These programs should be removed from the start menu or if you don't use them, deleted.
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| BlackBerry Browser Tips
BlackBerry Browser Tips
If you have a new model BlackBerry such as the Storm or Tour, you have two browser views. One is Column View and the other Page View.
To access them while on a website, press the BlackBerry (menu) button and scroll up. If you are in Page View you will see the option to change to Column View and visa versa.
To add a bookmark, while on a Website, press the BlackBerry (menu) button and then click Add Bookmark. You can change the name here, then click Add.
To set a different home page, go to the Website you would like as your home page. Press the BlackBerry (menu) button, then click Options. Scroll to the bottom and choose Use Current.
To forward this website, press the BlackBerry (menu) button, then click Send Address. You will be prompted for how you want it sent. Choose the method, then the recipient.
If you are having difficulty reading web pages, you can change the font size. While on a website, press the BlackBerry (menu) button, then click Options and General Properties. Scroll to the font size and change it to your liking.
To set the BlackBerry Browser home page, from the Browser, press the Menu key. Click Options, then Browser Configuration, and type your desired web site in the Home Page Address field.
Here are some shortcuts to keep in mind when browsing.
To refresh the page, press r
To move down, press the Spacebar
To move up, press the Shift Key and Spacebar
To move to the top of the page, press t
To move to the bottom of the page, press b
To get back to your home page, press h
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| Winter Storm Preparation
Winter Storm Preparation
Winter is here and it is always a good idea to review plans and supplies before they are needed.
The government has a very good website with valuable information for many scenarios.
Their winter preparedness information can be located at www.ready.gov/america/beinformed/winter.html
As it is said an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
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| RFID protection
RFID protection
RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification.
Examples of RFID in use are EasyPass, SpeedPass, passports and the New York State enhanced drivers license. Several banks also embed RFID tags into their credit cards.
One of the concerns is people are able to scan for RFID’s without the knowledge of the person being scanned. A person equipped with a scanner could use it while in a movie theater to gather personal information. Since these scanners are inexpensive, this is entirely possible.
The next time you are buying a wallet, check to see if it has RFID protection built in.
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| Don’t Drown from Phishing
Don’t Drown from Phishing
Phishing has cost millions of people millions of dollars.
Phishing is a method used to get someone to click on a link in an email.
Once clicked, viruses or malware can be installed on the computer.
Other Phishing expeditions are attempts to gather personal information.
For more on staying safe from phishing, visit our blog at HITmanServices.com/blog
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| BlackBerry Email and Messaging Tips
BlackBerry Email and Messaging Tips
Enable Spell Check
Click Email icon
Press BlackBerry (menu) button
Scroll to Options and click
Scroll to Spell Check and click
Choose the Spell Check Options you want
Press the Return button and click Save
Select Text Easily
Scroll to the start or end of the text you want to copy
Press and hold the Shift key while using the trackball to highlight the text
Press BlackBerry (menu) button
Scroll to and click Copy
Paste Text
Open the item you wish to paste into
Scroll to the section where you want to paste
Press BlackBerry (menu) button
Scroll to and click Paste
Shortcut Keys
Press T to go to the Top
Press B to go to the Bottom
Press F to Forward a message
Press L to repLy to a message
Press C to start a new message
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| Coming in 2010 – Blu-ray Managed Copy
Coming in 2010 – Blu-ray Managed Copy
Managed Copy provides buyers of Blu-ray disks to make a backup to a recordable Blu-ray disk, download a copy to a Windows Media DRM-compatible player, memory card or hard drive.
At the present time iPods, iPhones and other Apple devices are not included.
New Blu-ray players will probably have to be purchased to take advantage of Managed Copy.
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| Online Shopping Safety
Online Shopping Safety
With ID theft on the rise it is all the more important safe shopping guidelines are adhered to.
Make sure the website uses an SSL, you can tell if there is a lock displayed on the browser. Extended Validation SSL’s have a green bar.
Use websites which offer a security seal such as those offered by ControlScan or GeoTrust?
Use a PayPal account instead of a credit card?
Check the return policy. This is especially important if purchasing software.
Make sure business offers a phone number and address.
Don’t save passwords in your browser.
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| Black Friday 2009
Black Friday 2009
Black Friday is coming up fast.
Here are two websites which may help your shopping efforts.
http://blackfriday.gottadeal.com
Can be followed on twitter and facebook
http://bfads.net
Offers updates via an email list, facebook and twitter. They also offer a mobile version at http://m.bfads.net
Next week we will offer shopping safety tips. If you have family and friends who could benefit from these tips, please have them sign up.
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| BlackBerry Telephone Tips
BlackBerry Telephone Tips
To answer a second call coming in, press the menu (BlackBerry) button, scroll to Answer. Pressing the menu key again will let you swap between calls.
Don’t remember your phone number? Press the Phone button, it is displayed at the top.
To add a number to Speed Dial, open your Contacts. Press the BlackBerry button and choose Add Speed Dial. Now choose the button you want to associate with this phone number. You can also add to the Speed Dial in the Phone Log using the same method.
To use Speed Dial, simply press and hold the button associated with the contact you want to call.
To access your Voice Mail, press the Phone key and press and hold the 1 key.
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| HDMI 1.4 on the Horizon
HDMI 1.4 on the Horizon
HDMI 1.4 will add the HDMI Ethernet Channel.
This will allow home entertainment devices which are connected to exchange information as well as share a connection to the Internet.
Also included in HDMI 1.4 is support for 4K resolution, a Micro HDMI connector and 3D.
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| HDTV 1080p Seating Distance
Do you have a 1080p HDTV?
If so are you sitting too far away to take advantage of the enhanced picture?
To determine the best seat-to-screen distance in your living room for a 1080p display, THX recommends dividing the diagonal screen by .84. For example, an HDTV display with a 65-inch screen divided by .84 equals a 77-inch viewing distance (6.5 feet).
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| Use AOL IM to Send Texts to Your Phone
Use AOL Instant Messenger to Send Texts to Your Phone
(In the event you do not have an AIM account, go to www.aol.com and subscribe.)
Open AIM
Click Edit
Click Settings
Click Mobile
Click “Register Mobile Device”
Type in your mobile phone number and click Send.
Look at your phone for the confirmation number
Enter the confirmation number and click Confirm
Enable the Turn IM Forwarding On button and choose who you would like to receive mobile messages from.
When leaving your computer, keep AIM on and change your status to Mobile.
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| FBI Warns of Three Hoax e-mails
FBI Warns of Three Hoax e-mails
The Federal Bureau of Investigation issued a warning for three hoax e-mails which are currently circulating and claim to contain confidential law enforcement reports regarding terrorism and an audio from Osama bin Laden.
The FBI website states these e-mails are a fraud and may contain viruses and malicious software. The FBI does not send unsolicited e-mail or official reports.
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| Wide Scale Security Breach
Wide Scale Security Breach
Thousands of email accounts have been compromised as a result of passwords being posted online.
You should change your password ASAP, especially if you have one or more of the following accounts:
GMail
Google Talk
Google Docs
Hotmail
Yahoo
YouTube
Additionally if you used this same password for other accounts, they should also be changed.
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| Prepare For The Next Power Outage
Prepare For The Next Power Outage
Whether you live in a hot or cold region, the city or country, at some point there is a high probability there will be a power interruption.
For whole house solutions, companies like Generac offer several options, though may be beyond the budget of many.
Another solution is to use portable generators. Companies such as Troy Built, Briggs & Stratton and Honda along with others make smaller generators which depending on size can power the major appliances in your home.
If you decide to use a gas powered portable generator, make sure you safely store the gasoline.
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| Only Download Legal Music
Make sure others using your computer are not downloading illegal music.
A recent suit won by the RIAA for the amount of $1.92 million was awarded to be paid by a single mother because her children illegally downloaded 24 songs.
Additionally, downloading songs from friends or sources which cannot be verified, could also contain viruses or other malware.
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| Keep Your Finger Off The Trigger
Keep Your Finger Off The Trigger
Don’t be so fast to click the send, update, enter or ok button on the screen.
Before you do, check the following:
Is everything spelled correctly?
Does the email, text, post, update or tweet make sense?
Is it going to who you intend to send it to?
Is there anything embarrassing which should be removed?
Remember, just like when something is said it can’t be taken back, when something is posted on the Internet it will remain there forever, so slow down on the enter key.
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| Is Paperless Really in Your Best Interest
Is Paperless Really in Your Best Interest?
Remember the saying the computer doesn’t make mistakes?
What if someone hacks into your account and makes changes or steals money? Maybe they will remove a deposit which was recently made.
By having your bank send you statements at least you have a paper copy of your transactions to refer back to if needed.
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| Ease Your Comfort While Sitting at Your Desk
Ease Your Comfort While Sitting at Your Desk
Relax your back, shoulders and hips
You can do this sitting or standing.
Place your palms on the lower portion of your back.
Stretch your upper body backwards.
Stay in this position for five seconds.
Relax.
Do this five to ten times.
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| Smartphone Versatility
Smartphone Versatility
Many Smartphones do much more than let you communicate with others and keep track of your calendar.
Setup with the tethering option they become broadband modems, allowing you to access the Internet or email.
Smartphones can play MP3’s and even function as a GPS (Global Positioning System).
Many Smartphones also have software which let them act as dictating machines.
Smartphones like BlackBerry’s can also be used as an external file storage device when equipped with a MicroSD card.
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| Don’t Be a Phishing or Vishing Victim
Don’t Be a Phishing or Vishing Victim
Phishing is a phony email sent under the guise of a legitimate company.
Vishing is the act of a person contacting you and identifying themselves as someone they are not.
Both of these are forms of social engineering.
Social engineering is one of the greatest threats to computer security.
NEVER respond to an email asking for personal information.
If you receive a call and the person is asking information about your computer system or others who work at your organization, get their number and call them back. Also as a safeguard look their number up independently to verify as people can spoof their phone number.
Remember to trust your inner instincts and go with your gut.
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| Better Mileage and Tire Safety
Better Mileage and Tire Safety
Nitrogen vs. Air
Replacing the air in your vehicle’s tires with nitrogen could save you money at the gas pump and over the long haul with tire longevity.
Nitrogen does not fluctuate with temperatures as much as air. The benefits include a more stable psi (pounds per square inch) in your tires which if you are not diligent about checking your tire pressure often, could save you money. Savings depend on the cost of gas, how many miles are driven and the mpg the vehicle gets.
As nitrogen runs cooler, it also increases the safety of your vehicle. The small rubber contact patch on your tires is one of the most important safety aspects of vehicles.
The downside to nitrogen is it typically costs about $50.00 to fill a set of 4 tires.
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| Don’t Look Now, But You’re Being Followed
Don’t Look Now, But You’re Being Followed
Are you one of the millions of people who use Google Calendar or one of Google’s other products such as Google Search?
Google collects personal information you provide plus information you don’t. Google Calendar can also combine this information with information from other Google services plus services from other companies.
If you are under the impression that by deleting your cookies you are erasing traces of where you have been, think again. Google uses other methods such as your IP address to know who you are and where you’ve been.
Google can also share this information with third parties and can keep your information in servers located in other countries.
Google shares this information with other Google services. Based upon the information you provide, Google will send you information it thinks you need. Going to the dermatologist, Google may send you information on skin care products.
Do not be under the impression that by deleting something on your calendar it will be deleted by Google, as the likely hood is it will remain in their possession for years.
Big brother is here and he is not wearing red, white and blue.
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| Keep Your Phone Safe at The Beach
Keep Your Phone Safe at The Beach
Going to a beach or pool this summer?
With so much personal information being stored on cell phones these days, not to mention the cost of the phone itself and the replacement issue you’d have to deal with if your phone was lost, stolen or damaged, it may pay to invest in the proper case.
Many manufacturers offer waterproof cases. Some have bands which can go around an arm while others have neck straps. If you’re concerned about where to get one, companies such as L.L. Bean and EMS carry them.
While the cost is around $40.00, just imagine not being able to make or receive an important call at a critical time, or a stranger getting access to your address book.
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| Handheld GPS For Your Phone
Handheld GPS For Your Phone
Google Maps vs. Verizon VZ Navigator
We have been testing Verizon’s VZ Navigator and Google Maps for a while.
Google Maps is free while Verizon charges $10.00 per month for VZ Navigator.
VZ Navigator offers voice prompts while Google Maps does not. You must look at the phone or have someone read the directions to you if you use Google Maps.
Google Maps uses both GPS and cell tower triangulation to pinpoint your location. VZ Navigator uses GPS.
On several occasions the directions provided by VZ Navigator were very poor, all requiring using alternate methods to navigate to our destination.
A better solution to VZ Navigator or Google Maps is a low cost Garmin or similar unit. Many of their models could be purchased for close to the annual cost of Verizon’s VZ Navigator.
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| Recognize The Signs of a Stroke
Recognize The Signs of a Stroke
In the event of a stroke it is imperative that a person get to a hospital within 3 hours.
SMART
S - Ask the person to SMILE.
M - Ask the person to MOVE in a straight line.
A – Ask the person a current event question.
R – Ask the person to RAISE both arms.
T – Ask the person to stick out their TONGUE.
Stroke symptoms include the onset of:
• Numbness or weakness of the face or limbs, especially on one side of the body.
• Partial or complete loss of vision.
• Confusion or trouble speaking or understanding others.
• Loss of balance.
• Dizziness or vertigo.
• Difficulty swallowing.
• Memory issues.
• Severe headache.
If the person has a problem completing any of these, call 911 immediately.
It could save a life.
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| Photo Savings Tips 1
Photo Savings Tips 1
Do you like to take photos, but don’t have the software to improve them?
Take a look at picnik.com.
Their free version will let you fix red eye, crop, resize and rotate your photos.
They also offer special effects which can be applied to your pictures.
A benefit to picnik.com is it does not require software to be loaded on your computer. The downside is you need to upload your pictures to the Internet for the system to work.
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| Pros and Cons of Internet Based Phones
Pros and Cons of Internet Based Phones
Time Warner, Vonage, Magic Jack and Skype all provide phone service called VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol).
The benefits to these services over traditional POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) lines is there is a substantial reduction in costs. A phone line from Verizon could cost over $50.00 per month by the time taxes and fees are added in. By contrast, Vonage is roughly half that and magic Jack is about $60.00 including a year of service.
The big advantage to traditional phones over Internet based phones is they still work in the event of power outages and do not rely on a computer to be on or a router to function correctly.
If you do a lot of calling and are concerned about your security, the best of both worlds would be to combine a basic service from a company like Verizon with either Skype or Magic Jack. Your cost would be about the same as if you had Vonage, except now you have redundancy.
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| Create Your Own Wallpaper
Create Your Own Wallpaper
Would you like to have wallpaper on your computer which is unique and has special meaning to you?
A company on the Internet offers a service which will let you take anywhere from 1 to 30 pictures and create a collage out of them.
To create your own customized photo collage wallpaper visit photovisi.com.
Photovisi even lets you use pictures which you have loaded on flickr.
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| Create a Shortcut Key
Create a shortcut (hot key) to your favorite applications
Click the start button
Click programs
Highlight the program you want to create a shortcut for
Right Click on Properties
Tab to shortcut key
Press the letter you would like to designate for this program
Click Ok
To use your new shortcut key, just press ctrl + alt + the letter you used.
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| Increase Performance on Windows Vista
Increase Performance on Windows Vista
If you would like to get Windows Vista to run faster for very little cost, try the following:
Locate a USB 2.0 high speed drive or purchase a new one.
Put the drive in one of the USB ports on your computer.
Wait for the pop-up window to appear.
Choose Speed Up My System.
That's all there is to it.
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| Child Internet Safety
Child Internet Safety
If you have children at home, you may want to review the following with them.
Do not give out your email address.
Never give anybody your real name, phone number or home address.
Do not open any email from people you don't know.
Talk with a parent before opening any attachment.
NEVER setup a meeting with people you have met on the Internet.
Do not give out family information.
Do not share your personal diary items.
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| Data Backups
Safeguard Your Data
Purchase 2 or 3 USB thumb drives in a capacity which will handle your documents, data, email and music.
Open Windows Explorer.
Put one of the drives into the USB slot.
After the drive is recognized, right click on it and rename it so each one has a unique name.
To rename the folder do the following:
Right click on the folder.
Move your mouse to Rename.
Left click on Rename.
Give the drive a unique name so it can be identified easily from the others.
Once this is done use the following procedures to backup the data.
Right click on the folders you want to copy and drag them to your USB drive.
Let go of the mouse button and click copy.
Once the files are copied, the drive can be removed.
Remember to eject the drive before pulling it out.
Do this by clicking on the icon in the system tray and then clicking eject.
Put the USB drive in a safe place. If possible, keep one at a different location.
If you have a DVD burner and a program like Roxio, you can use it to create data disks.
Another solution is to use an Internet based service. These can be configured to backup any changed data files throughout the day.
Companies such as Carbonite offer this service.
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| Micro USB Initiative
New micro USB initiative for cell phone chargers
The GSM (Global System for Mobile communications) Association is working on standardizing cell phone chargers.
Several manufacturers and providers have agreed to use the same connection for cell phone chargers.
This should reduce the number of chargers people need, and are expected be meet or exceed a 4 star energy rating.
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| Stay Safe From Virus’
Stay Safe From Virus’
Keeping the electronics and other items you touch and place near your face is a good first line of defense.
Consumer wipes such as those from Clorox or Lysol work well. These towelettes have the proper amount of cleaners on them so that the liquid will not get into the electronics.
Rubbing alcohol also works well when used with a cotton ball. Try not to over saturate the cotton ball.
Some items you might want to disinfect on a regular basis include: cell phones, regular phones, pens or pencils if others use them, steering wheel, shift lever and door handles.
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| Credit Card Safety
Credit Card Payment Safety
When writing checks for credit card payments, do not put the entire credit card account number on the check.
Use only the last 4 digits in the "For" line.
Credit Card Phone Numbers
Document the phone numbers for your credit card companies along with the credit card number.
Keep this in a different location than your credit cards.
In the event you need to cancel your credit cards, you will quickly be able to locate the phone numbers.
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| Stay On Top of Movies While Out and About
Stay On Top of Movies While Out and About
Moviefone has a nice website for Smartphones and cell phones.
You can see the top movies along with movies playing near you.
Moviefone also has information on upcoming releases and what’s new on DVD.
The address is
www.moviefone.com
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| Information For The Traveler On The Go
Information For The Traveler On The Go
While each airline has their own website for mobile users, Orbitz has a mobile website which has information for all airlines.
In addition, Orbitz has travel information for large airports and hotel availability for the top 20 cities.
The address is:
http://mobile.orbitz.com
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| Relieve Wrist Tension and Stiffness
Relieve Wrist Tension and Stiffness
You can perform this stretch sitting or standing.
Place your palms together at chest height as if you were praying.
Push your palms together slowly while slightly lifting your elbows.
Hold this position for five seconds.
Repeat this stretch five to ten times.
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| Credit Theft or Fraud Resolution
In the event your credit cards are stolen, immediately file a report with local law enforcement.
Contact the three credit reporting agencies and have them place a fraud alert on your name.
Also be sure to contact the Social Security Administration.
Equifax - (800)525-6285
Experian - (888)397-3742
Trans Union - (800)680-7289
Social Security Administration - (800)269-0271
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| Cell Phone Suggestions
Cell Phone Suggestions
In meetings, while eating, at church or the movies:
Turn off or set to silent.
Use vibrate only if it will not disturb others.
Use an appropriate ring tone.
If you’re a professional keep it professional.
Going into a meeting or driving soon?
Rather than having family or your office call you, call them in advance.
Let them know you will check back in again at your next available moment.
In a car using the speakerphone or Bluetooth?
Let the person on the other end of the phone know the conversation is not private.
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| Travel Around the World for Free
Travel Around the World for Free
Google Earth 5.0 lets you travel all over the world.
You can explore the Rocky Mountains, the Grand Canyon, the Atlantic Ocean. View the earth from satellite and discover buildings in 3D.
With Google Earth 5.0 you can record your trips to view and share with family and friends.
To load Google Earth, go to http://earth.google.com
Click on “Download Google Earth 5.0”
Follow the prompts
Enjoy your travels
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| Help Finding a Restroom
Help Finding a Restroom
There is a new application for BlackBerry and iPhone users which may help.
Using the GPS in the device, the system will show you public restrooms in the area where you are, along with a cleanliness rating.
To sign up, go to www.sitorsquat.com
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| TENS Unit
TENS Unit
A TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) unit is a small portable electronic device.
Through small sticky patches attached to an area of the body experiencing pain, electrical impulses are transmitted from the TENS unit.
The impulses suppress pain by helping the brain release endorphins. Additionally nerve fibers get stimulated which can block pain.
Many people get relief through the use of TENS units.
If you feel one could help you, talk to your physician or chiropractor.
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| New Email Appliance
New Email Appliance
Do you know somebody who is not able to have or operate a computer, but would like email?
A new device called Presto allows people to receive photos and email sent by family and friends.
While Internet access is not required, there is a fee of $12.50 per month above the $150.00 price.
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| Read That Menu Easier
Read That Menu Easier
Have there been times when you wish you could see that menu a little better.
Adding a coin-sized LED flashlight to your pocket or purse could be just the tool.
Many LED flashlights have batteries which can last up to 30 hours and the LED bulbs are nearly indestructible.
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| Check Safety
Check Safety
Use your work phone number on your checks instead of your home phone.
If you have a P.O. Box, list that address instead of your home address.
Never have your social security number printed on your checks.
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