Hello, and welcome to 2005!
I was going to do a column on USB bridging - a technical topic, but one of interest to digital camera and music users. But that's too heavy for the holiday period. So, I then decided to do the standard old New Year's Resolution column, but decided that was too cliché. Then the thought occurred to me - I would write YOUR computer resolutions for 2005!
YR (Your Resolution) #1: Buy a new PC! If your PC is older than 3-4 years, or it if isn't running Windows XP, it's the time for a change. Prices on new PCs should be even better after the turn of the New Year. Do not consider upgrading your old Windows to XP - it may not work at all on your old hardware, and it's not worth the cost and effort.
YR # 2: Learn how to do regular backups. This resolution has three parts - A) get one or more hardware backup devices, such as a CD writer, a USB thumb drive, an external hard drive, etc. B) Get backup or synchronization software and learn how to use it. C) Know where your stuff is on your hard drive, so you know what to backup.
YR # 3: Get the latest anti-virus software and make sure it is configured properly. Use the built-in Windows XP firewall (make sure you upgrade to Service Pack 2 (SP2)) or buy the firewall that works with your anti-virus software.
YR # 4: Install and use an anti-spyware package, such as Spybot or Adaware.
YR # 5: Get a high speed Internet connection, such as Road Runner or DSL. Dialup connections don't work well, are very slow, and are rapidly fading as a viable option. The biggest problem with dialup connections is that they are so slow that you can't download all the latest program and driver updates.
YR # 6: Clean your PC! This entails taking off the side cover and using a vacuum to gently get rid of all the dust inside and on the back case fans and openings. You can also use one of those compressed air cans, but if there is a lot of dust they tend to make a mess. If you want to do this, take your PC out to the back porch.
YR # 7: Have fun with your PC! (Yes, I know some readers at this point are suggesting that I get a life!) Find a hobby or project and dive into it. Suggestions: Learn to write DVDs and transfer your old family VHS tapes to DVD, with editing, titles, and music. Or get a scanner and scan in all those old family photos and slides sitting in shoeboxes. Or put all your recipes into the PC so you can actually find one when you need to entertain. Or set up your home for Home Automation. Or even just get into PC gaming. Note: I don't consider cruising eBay a hobby, but some people do (talk about getting a life!).
YR # 8: Replace your old, sticky mouse with a new optical one. Even better, go cordless.
YR # 9: If you have a digital camera, get some really good software such as Jasc Paint Shop Pro or Adobe Photoshop Elements. Learn how to use it well and enhance your photos.
YR # 10: Finally, read and enjoy Bob's column every week!
Bob Seidel is a local computer consultant in the Southport - Oak Island area. You can visit his Website at www.bobseidel.com or e-mail questions or column ideas to him at bsc@bobseidel.com. For specific inquiries, please call Bob Seidel Consulting, LLC at 278-1007.