Ask Mr. Modem! – January 2008
www.MrModem.com
Is Skipping OK, okay?
Q. When I change settings, at the bottom of the screen it has the OK and APPLY buttons. I always click APPLY, then OK, but when I skip APPLY and just click OK, it seems to do exactly the same thing. Can I save a step and just click OK without clicking APPLY?
A. Depending what you're doing, there may be a valid reason to use APPLY versus OK, or both in concert, so let’s take a look at what each button does: APPLY saves any changes you make without closing the dialog box or window. So you would click APPLY and not click OK if you make changes and need to make additional changes on the same screen. Clicking OK saves any changes and closes the dialog box, so you would click OK if you're making one change and then want to exit.
Most people click APPLY > OK out of habit, as a two-step operation to save and exit, but technically, it's not always necessary -- again, depending what you're doing at the time.
Q. I’ve been to the AVG Web site, but I can’t find the free version you’re always talking about. They must have it pretty well hidden. Can you point me to it, Mr. M?
A. The free version of AVG AntiVvirus continues to be my favorite anti-virus program. It automatically updates daily, has a scheduler so you can run full system scans in the middle of then night, and you can’t beat the price. Most vendors do tend to hide their freebies, and the good folks at AVG are no exception, but you’ll find the free version located at http://tinyurl.com/yo9npk. A paid version is also available, and you’ll find a features comparison of the free versus paid versions on the site, as well.
Q. Can you explain the difference between “Read Only,” “Hidden,” and “Archive” options for files?
A. When you right-click a file and select Properties, near the bottom of the Properties dialog box you’ll see the Attributes section. The items you refer to are three check-box flags or what are called file attributes that describe various characteristics of a file. Technically, it’s a bit more complicated than that, but for our purposes, and so my head doesn’t explode, I'm going to keep this as simple as possible.
The Read-Only attribute, as its name implies, causes a file to be "read-only," meaning that you can view it, but you cannot edit or delete it.
The Hidden attribute causes a file to be invisible under certain circumstances, such as when lists of files are displayed or when there’s a full moon. For example, there are certain files within Windows that most of us have no business using, so those are typically hidden. No good can come from most of us tinkering with hidden files, so to protect us from ourselves, Microsoft designates certain files as “hidden.” System files are generally hidden files, as are files that are critical to the performance and operation of Windows.
The Archive attribute was created by Microsoft to allow developers to quickly determine whether a file requires a backup (archive) copy. The Archive attribute is established whenever an existing file is either overwritten or modified. The idea, in general, is to signal a backup program that a certain file needs to be backed up. A backup program may not know to save a new or modified file without the addition of the Archive attribute.
Mr. Modem’s DME (Don’t Miss ‘Em) Sites of the Month
APA Help Center
At varying times, many people experience some form of depression, anxiety, or other psychological challenge(s). The American Psychological Association's Web site provides useful links to help us learn about dealing with anxiety and stress, practice techniques for healing our bodies with our minds, and when additional assistance is warranted, locate a therapist.
http://tinyurl.com/3yljbu
Worst Jobs in History
The Web site behind the U.K. television show “The Worst Jobs in History,” which explores the most miserable professions of the past 2000 years. If you think you’ve got it rough, think of laborers during the free-spirited Middle Ages or the swinging Victorian era. Good times, indeed. Each job is described in humorous and occasionally shocking detail. Fuller, Bog-Iron Hunter, Wattle-and-Daub Applier -- they’re all here.
http://tinyurl.com/2tmf5c
Virtual Vaudeville
Take an entertaining trip back to the 19th Century, where the past meets the future thanks to the convergence of nostalgia and technology. There are many fun features on the site, the highlight of which is the Virtual Vaudeville Live Performance Simulation System. Sounds like a party to me! Learn all about the development and production of this concept, which preserves online live theater for future generations to experience and enjoy.
www.virtualvaudeville.com
Start the year off right by treating yourself to a subscription to Mr. Modem’s award-winning, weekly computer-help newsletter! Helpful PC tips, great Web sites and personal, plain-English answers to your questions by email! To view a sample issue or subscribe, visit www.MrModem.com.
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Ask Mr. Modem! – March 2008
www.MrModem.com
Dell’s Dilemma
Q. I heard that some Dell laptops have defective batteries that have been recalled. How do I know if I’ve got one of them in my computer, and if so, what do I do?
A. First of all, though the recall involves more than four million batteries, according to Dell, there have only been six reported cases of “overheating” that resulted in property damage, but no injuries. (I suspect the term “overheating” is being used in the same manner that a physician says, “You may feel some slight discomfort,” just before the searing pain begins.)
This battery problem stems from flaws in the production of lithium-ion batteries made by Sony and used in Dell’s Latitude, Inspiron, XPS, and Precision mobile workstation notebooks that shipped between April 1, 2004 and July 18, 2006.
To determine if you have one of the batteries in question, other than the ability to toast marshmallows over your keyboard, go to the Dell Battery Return Program Web site (www.dellbatteryprogram.com) and enter the 20-digit ID number located on your battery. If your battery is a candidate for free replacement, you’ll be directed to an online request form. You can also call 866-342-0011.
If you do have one of the batteries in question, it is recommended that you remove the battery and use the computer exclusively on AC power until you receive your replacement.
Q. I’m having trouble printing ZIP Codes that begin with a zero in Excel. My spreadsheet displays zeros in the ZIP Code column, but when printed, it drops the zeros every time. Can you help?
A. Excel is doing what it normally does in this instance, and that’s dropping the leading zero because it’s assuming that the ZIP Code is an actual number. Since 1 and 01 have the same numerical value, Excel thinks its doing you a big favor by dropping the “unnecessary” zero.
This is easily resolved by instructing Excel that your ZIP Code column is not comprised of arbitrary numerals, but rather that those numbers are ZIP Codes. To do this, first highlight the entire column by clicking the letter at the top of the column, then click Format > Cells > Number tab.
In the Category section, scroll down and select Special, then ZIP Code from the Type section, followed by OK. Your ZIP Codes should now print correctly, with no disappearing digits.
Q. When removing programs and the question appears, “Do you want to remove a shared file?” should I answer “Yes” or “No”?
A: Shared files display the extension .DLL, which means they’re Dynamic Linked Library files. That’s just a high-falootin’ way to let you know that the file in question is possibly being used by one or more other programs. For example, a word processor and spreadsheet may share a .DLL file, so removing a shared file may cause one or more programs to function improperly.
Removing a shared file can also result in an “XYZ file cannot be found” error message. If that appears, it’s usually because the missing file was removed when a shared file was deleted as the result of uninstalling another program.
If you’re asked if you want to delete a shared file, just say “No.” It won’t hurt anything to leave the file alone, and it’s better to err on the side of caution rather than risk accidentally disabling another application.
Mr. Modem’s DME (Don’t Miss ‘Em) Sites of the Month
eLibs.com
Do you remember the wild and wacky Mad Libs books, which invited readers to provide words that were ultimately incorporated into a quasi-amusing story? Think of eLibs.com as the online equivalent of Mad Libs. If you fancy yourself as a writer, you can even try your hand at creating your own eLib, then share or inflict it upon others.
www.elibs.com
Free Information Society
Here you’ll find free MP3 downloads of historical speeches, interviews and other significant moments in audio history. Listen to Spiro Agnew waxing expansive about long-haired hippies, Mahatma Gandhi speaking about peace, Mr. Modem explaining quantum physics, or Amelia Earhart ruminating about flying. The site is divided into topical sections, so it’s easy to find just about any voice from the past.
http://tinyurl.com/266scl
Make Your Own Kaleidoscope
This site reminds me of the Beatles’ Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds. Such mind-blowing lyrics. Remember “The girl with colitis goes by”? They don’t write ‘em like that anymore. Copy and paste the URL to any .jpg file into the Image field, click the Load button, then hold down the left button while moving your mouse to enjoy the groovy kaleidoscopic images. Far out! It makes me feel like I had a hit of tofu. Man, that’s good veggie.
http://tinyurl.com/2dywn4
Mr. Modem provides prompt, personal answers to computer and Internet questions by email, plus easy-to-use PC tips, including Windows Vista, for subscribers of his weekly computer-help newsletter. For more information, to view a sample issue, or to subscribe, visit www.MrModem.com.
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Ask Mr. Modem! – April 2008
www.MrModem.com
Create Your Own Newspaper
Q. I’m a news junkie and though many sites permit me to customize the type of news I want, I was wondering if there is any way to pull together news from various sources so I can just go to one place and see my favorite news items?
A. One of the oldest news sites on the Web is one that does permit you to do that in a clever way, and for free. The site is called CRAYON (www.crayon.net). The name is an acronym derived from CReAte Your Own Newspaper. After registering on the site, go to Your Paper’s Settings where you can name your publication, give it a motto, select the page layout, graphics, and then select your news sources from a vast array of publications, news media, by topic or other criteria. Once you’ve made and saved all your selections, log-in and click “Read My Paper.” It will be assembled and presented to you faster than you can holler, “Extry! Extry! Read all about it!” If you’re a news junkie, be sure to check out www.newser.com, also.
Q. When I click View > Details in a folder, is there any way I can keep that view so I don’t have to re-select the Details view again with the next folder?
A. Theoretically, Windows will remember the View selected for each folder and will display it the same way each time the folder is opened. The operative word in the previous sentence is “theoretically.” Sometimes Windows remembers, sometimes Windows doesn’t. I can relate.
You can encourage Windows to remember your View settings by first configuring a folder the way you want it to appear. Then, go to the Control Panel > Folder Options > View tab. For versions of Windows prior to XP, look at the list of options in the Advanced Settings section and locate “Remember each folder's view Settings." Click to place a check mark in front of this option, then click Apply > OK to save and exit. XP users, click the “Apply to All Folders” button, followed by Apply > OK.
Vista users, go to the Control Panel > Appearance and Personalization > Folder Options > View tab and click the “Apply to Folders” button. A less click-intensive method with Vista is to click the Start button and in the “Start Search” field, type “folder options.” Click Folder Options when it appears as a search result and you’ll be transported to the Folder Options dialog box.
Q. I’m divorced, but my married name appears in the From: field of email that I send using Outlook. I can’t figure out how to change the name people see when I send messages. Can you help, Mr. M?
A. You can easily change the name that identifies you as the sender. The process is the same for both Outlook and Outlook Express: Click Tools > Accounts > Mail tab. If you have more than one email address, you will see them displayed in a list. If you only have one, it will be the only one displayed. (When it comes to stating the obvious, you can count on Mr. Modem.)
Click to select the account you want to change, then click the Properties button. The current name displayed on your email will appear in the Name: field, which you can edit to reflect your new name -- or old name, as the case may be. When you’re finished, click Apply > OK to save your changes.
Mr. Modem’s DME (Don’t Miss ‘Em) Sites of the Month
The American Roadside
This site is bumper-to-bumper full of entertaining roadside attractions, interesting destinations along scenic routes, and wonderful old “meat-loaf-and-taters” diners. Read articles, view the photo gallery, or buy books, t-shirts, and other American Roadside paraphernalia, all destined to end up in your junk drawer.
www.theamericanroadside.com
About Big Numbers
Have you ever wondered how big an octovigintillion is? How about a tredecillion, or a quattuordecillion, or a million-jillion, or perhaps a penicillin? There are so many big numbers here that you’ll have a splitting headache in no time.
http://tinyurl.com/yslq65
Brain Training
BrainMetrix advises us that when it comes to our neurons, “use ‘em or lose ‘em.” To help keep the ol’ brain cells stimulated, BrainMetrix provides an assortment of cerebral games and exercises that will keep our minds sharp for… for… well, perhaps it’s too late for me, but hopefully it won’t be for you. Give your gray matter a vigorous workout by participating in any of a number of these mind-training exercises.
http://brainmetrix.com
Mr. Modem’s weekly newsletter delivers helpful computer tips, great Web sites and his personal answers to your questions! Trial offer: Subscribe online using Promo Code 1146 and receive one free month with your 6-month subscription (28 issues!) To view a sample issue or subscribe, visit www.MrModem.com.
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Ask Mr. Modem! – May 2008
www.MrModem.com
The Mouse in Your House: Laser or Optical?
Q. When I attempt to enter some sites, I have to type some weird numbers or words that appear in a box. The letters and numbers are so difficult to read, it usually takes me about three attempts before I get it right. I know it’s for security, but how does typing in those numbers actually help anything?
A. Those characters appear as an image, rather than plain text, in order to prevent what are called spambots (robotic programs), using a computer script, from copying and pasting those characters into the fill-in form. The numbers are distorted to prevent optical-character recognition software from reading them. Only the human eye can decipher the characters, thus ensuring that the site or service is only accessed by human beans (homosapiens legumous), not robotic programs.
Some sites offer an audio link that “speaks” the characters, which can then be typed into the form. The theory is the same, though, that only humans will be able to listen to the audio and type in the numbers correctly.
Q. I was mouse shopping the other day and looked at both a laser mouse and an optical mouse. I bought the laser mouse, but now I’m not sure if I bought the right thing, so I’m turning to you, Mr. M: What’s the difference between an optical mouse and a laser mouse, and is one better than the other?
A. The difference between an optical mouse and a laser mouse is the light used to track movement. An optical mouse uses an LED (light-emitting diode), while a laser mouse uses a -- care to venture a guess? That’s right, a laser. The more dots per inch (dpi) a mouse can track, the more sensitive and accurate it is. A typical optical mouse tracks between 400 and 800 dpi, while laser mice track more than 2,000 dpi.
Neither is really better; it all depends on your needs and preferences. Unless you're a gamer or a graphic artist with a need for super-precise movement, you'll probably find a 2,000 dpi laser mouse overly sensitive, but that’s the primary difference. An optical mouse would have served your purposes very well, but you didn't purchase the "wrong" mouse unless you find its sensitivity to be excessive. Many gaming mice (lasers) allow sensitivity adjustments so you can have precision when you need it, but can revert to 400 dpi or 800 dpi for regular mousing activities. Check the documentation or Help files in conjunction with your laser mouse to determine if you have that capability.
Besides tracking speeds, laser mice work on nearly every surface, where optical mice may occasionally experience difficulty tracking on black or shiny surfaces. I use an optical mouse, but have never had a problem using it on any surface.
Mr. Modem’s DME (Don’t Miss ‘Em) Sites of the Month
Eli Stein Cartoons
For more than 50 years, Eli Stein cartoons have graced the pages of many prestigious publications, including The Wall Street Journal, The National Law Journal, Barron’s, Better Homes and Gardens, Good Housekeeping, The Saturday Evening Post, King Features Syndicate, Modern Maturity, National Enquirer, Woman’s World, and National Review, just to name-drop a few. Cartoons are categorized by decade (beginning in the 1950’s), publication or topic. And if the brilliance of his cartoons isn’t enough, Mr. Stein’s insightful, humorous comments and recollections accompany many of his works.
www.elisteincartoons.com
OR Live
This site was launched approximately eight years ago as a way for physicians and surgeons to bone up on new techniques by logging on to watch their peers perform various surgeries. Recently, the site has been attracting many patients who, understandably, are also curious about procedures. Categories of surgeries include Cardiovascular, OB-GYN, Orthopedics, Pediatrics, and other specialties. Most videos require RealPlayer, but you’ll be prompted if your system is lacking the necessary program to view a given procedure.
www.or-live.com
Pets on the Go
Do you like to travel with your pet? If so, this site is the definitive guide for information and links to more than 30,000 pet-friendly hotels, inns, B&Bs, and private rentals. The “Tips for Trips” section provides some great information if you’re planning to fly with Fido, cruise with Kitty, or surf with Sushi. (Okay, okay, I couldn’t think of anything else.)
http://petsonthego.com
Mr. Modem’s weekly newsletter delivers helpful computer tips, great Web sites and his personal answers to your questions! Trial offer: Subscribe online using Promo Code 1146 and receive one free month with your 6-month subscription (28 issues!) To view a sample issue or subscribe, visit www.MrModem.com.
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Ask Mr. Modem! – June 2008
www.MrModem.com
Save Data With Proper Windows Shut Down
Q. What is the reason for exiting out of programs before shutting down my computer? What happens if I don’t?
A. Unless you enjoy living on the digital edge, exiting out of programs permits each program to shut down in a specifically designated manner, which includes saving your data and tidying up before closing.
For example, many programs create temporary files while being used. These files are deleted during the course of the program’s shut-down process. Some programs that contain a “Deleted Items” or “Trash” folder will empty these folders upon closing, as well.
If you fail to close programs before shutting down your PC, it may, under certain circumstances, result in the loss of data, so it’s always best to close programs first.
For the most part, Windows will automatically close open programs as part of the overall shut-down process. If Windows isn’t shut down properly—for example, if you press the power button on your computer or (gasp!) yank the plug out of the wall—the next time you start your computer, it will run through a series of additional tests to verify the integrity of your data, as well as take a look around to be sure everything is functioning properly.
All things considered, it’s best to shut down your system as Mr. Gates requests, via Start > Turn Off Computer. It only takes a couple of seconds, so better safe than sorry.
Q. Is there any maximum length for an email address?
A. A username (the first part of an address, before the @ sign) can be up to 64 characters, which is much less than the domain part, which can be 255 characters. That means the total maximum email address length can be a staggering 320 characters. (Why characters would be staggering is unknown.)
A 320-character email address would (320) be unbelievably annoying to anybody who has to manually type the address. To understand just how lengthy that would be, this question and answer, up to the parenthetical (320) in the previous sentence, is 320 characters.
Realistically, any email address that long is going to continually run into problems with mail servers and email programs. Even the Microsoft Access database only permits a maximum of 50 characters for an email field.
When it comes to Internet protocols, there is always a gap between what is permitted and what is supported. Shorter email addresses are desirable for a number of reasons, not the least of which is that they’re easier to remember and use on a daily basis.
Q. How do I show more than one window when viewing Web sites?
A. The specific steps for opening additional windows to view multiple Web sites or pages depends on your browser, but generally, CTRL + N will open a new browser Window. When the new window opens, type in or paste a Web site address and press Enter to navigate to another Web page. You can continue to press CTRL + N to open as many windows as you wish.
If you’re using Internet Explorer 7, Opera or the Firefox browser, press CTRL + T to open new tabs, within which you can navigate to additional sites.
Mr. Modem’s DME (Don’t Miss ‘Em) Sites of the Month
Analytical Problems and Puzzles
The first thing you’ll have to do upon entering this site is choose your challenge: Lateral Thinking or Logic Problems. I was stumped right there. Next, select a level of difficulty ranging from Very Easy to Very Difficult. These are excellent exercises for the brain, though my few remaining neurons didn't find the very easy ones to be particularly easy. Humbling? Yes; Easy? No. Here’s an example of a “very easy” question: “How could a baby fall out of a twenty-story building onto the ground and live?” Hint: You’ll find the answer in the Lateral Thinking section.
www.folj.com
Hard-to-Find 800 Numbers
If you have ever tried to find an 800 number for a product, service or company, you know the meaning of frustration. This site provides a comprehensive and convenient reference for that purpose. Interestingly enough, the most frequently sought 800 numbers, are for Amazon, eBay, PayPal, Yahoo, and Microsoft. (I said it was interesting, not life-altering.)
www.hardtofind800numbers.com
Plot-O-Matic
Have you every watched a movie and thought to yourself, "I can write a better movie than this piece of predictable fluff"? Well, you probably can. And it's easier than you might think. Just select the characters and plot elements you want to include in your movie, then click the “Lights! Camera! Action!” button.
http://tinyurl.com/6n42xd
Mr. Modem’s weekly newsletter delivers helpful computer tips, great Web sites and his personal answers to your questions! Trial offer: Subscribe online using Promo Code MODEM and receive one free month with your six-month subscription (28 issues!) To view a sample issue or subscribe, visit www.MrModem.com.
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Ask Mr. Modem! – July 2008
www.MrModem.com
“Help! My PC Won’t Start”
Q. I recently moved my desktop computer. When I tried to start it, nothing happened. It won’t turn on. Any help would be appreciated, Mr. M.
A. First, remove then plug the power cord into the back of the computer. Make sure it’s inserted securely. Likewise, make sure it’s plugged into the AC or power strip or whatever your source of power is. Also, be sure that the outlet it is plugged into is functional. Try plugging in a lamp to confirm that it is. Do the same thing if you’re using a power strip or surge protector, just to be certain everything is functioning independently.
Next, check the back of the computer in the area where you plugged in the power cord. Look for a switch with a little horizontal line on one end and a little circle on the other. The line means “On,” so make sure that it is turned on. It’s very easy, when moving a computer, to accidentally toggle that switch to the “Off” position.
If the power switch is on, and everything is plugged in securely, the electric outlet is working, as is any power strip or surge protector, and you still can’t start your PC, then it’s time to contact a reputable computer repair service and have them check it out. It may require something as simple as replacing the system’s power supply unit.
Q. Is there a way to configure Word so it will automatically leave two blank spaces after a period at the end of a sentence?
A. Yes, you can do that, though one space after a period is the standard these days. Years ago, it was two spaces, but for most publications today, one space is preferred.
Microsoft Word does not provide an ATS (automatic two-space) setting, but you can configure Word's grammar checker to note any spacing anomalies. To do that, click Tools > Options > Spelling & Grammar tab > Settings button. Use the “Spaces required between sentences” drop-down list to establish how many spaces you would like between your sentences, followed by OK to close the Grammar Settings dialog box, then OK to close the Options dialog box.
The grammar checker will flag any sentences that do not conform to your spacing preference by displaying a green wavy underline. When you right-click that line, you’ll be able to correct the spacing for that occurrence.
Q. I know this is probably a stupid question, but what does “URL” stand for?
A. First and foremost, there are never any stupid or silly questions here in Mr. Modemville. For most of us, Geekspeak is not our native tongue, so if you encounter a word and you’re just not sure what it means, “Ask Mr. Modem.”
Having said that, depending who you ask, URL stands for either “Uniform Resource Locator” or “Universal Resource Locator.” I was always a uniform kind of guy since my days in the Boy Scouts, so I prefer “Uniform Resource Locator.” A URL is the unique address of a resource on the Internet. A “www” URL, commonly called a Web address, appears in the Address bar near the top of a Web browser. For example, the full URL or Web address for my Web site is http://www.MrModem.com, though URLs are typically shortened to www.MrModem.com or even MrModem.com.
Mr. Modem’s DME (Don’t Miss ‘Em) Sites of the Month
Craftzine
A project-based, online magazine dedicated to do-it-yourself crafts. The Projects section gives crafting a modern makeover, mixing traditional art with modern elements such as technology, recycling, the use of creative materials, and toxic waste (just kidding). Lots of free information is available on the site, though visitors are encouraged to enter a paid subscription.
www.craftzine.com
Historic Tale Construction Kit
Whether you are a history buff or just trying to look busy at work, this site lets you create your own story from the Middle Ages, complete with warriors, beasts, and shamans. When finished, you can submit it to the site so others can view it, or email it to annoy as many friends as possible. The process is a bit like writing your own comic strip in individual frames.
http://tinyurl.com/t3xe
New York Public Library Digital Gallery
You don’t have to live in the Big Apple to experience one of the most impressive libraries in the world. The New York Public Library Digital Gallery Web site provides visitors with free access to half a million digitized items from its collection. http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital
Mr. Modem’s weekly newsletter delivers helpful computer tips, great Web sites and his personal answers to your questions! Trial offer: Subscribe online using Promo Code FREEMO and receive one free month with your six-month subscription (28 issues!) To view a sample issue or subscribe, visit www.MrModem.com.
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Ask Mr. Modem! – August 2008
www.MrModem.com
Why Rebates Instead of Lower Prices?
Q. Why do hardware and software companies offer rebates instead of just selling a product at a lower price?
A. Companies have various reasons for offering rebates, but in general, there are three primary motivations: First, the time between the purchase and the rebate can be several weeks, a period in which your money is in the company's possession, earning interest or working in other ways to its advantage.
Second, what better way for a company to obtain your personal information for subsequent contact or to sell to others than by offering you money in the form of a rebate?
Third, companies know that most people are busy or lazy (or both) and won't go to the trouble of cutting out a bar code or providing the requisite paperwork to obtain a rebate. In this way the company gets to attract purchasers by advertising a low price, and in many instances selling an item for a higher price, because the purchaser never applies for the rebate. What a deal!
You can avoid any unpleasant surprises by reading rebate offers carefully before sending them in. Somewhere within the fine print, any restrictions or limitations will be noted, such as the rebate being paid in Drachmas or Rupiahs, or the rebate being a coupon that can only be used to purchase merchandise from the same retailer.
Q. What’s the difference between 32-bit and 64-bit computing? When asked, should I get the 32-bit version of a software program or the 64-bit? I don’t have a clue. I love your weekly newsletter, Mr. M. Keep up the good work.
A. Within your computer, there are many items that you won’t (mercifully) need to concern yourself with, and one of those items is called the data bus. A bus provides transportation, but instead of transporting people, this type of bus transports data within your computer. Basically, it connects memory to the rest of the system, including the processor.
A bit, by definition, is the smallest unit of data that a computer can recognize. At the risk of causing your eyes to glaze over, there are eight bits to one byte, and one byte equals one character, such as the letter “s” or the numeral “7”. A typical data bus is 32-bits wide, like a 32-lane highway, kinda-sorta. A 64-bit bus is twice as wide, so the system can move twice as much data. Being able to process more data results in a faster system—but only for specific purposes. You won’t notice any increased speed doing normal computing chores such as word processing, email, or viewing Web pages; noticeable speed increases primarily occur in the areas of graphics processing, math and scientific calculations, or what we in the biz refer to as “number crunching.”
Manufacturers are currently working on 64-bit processors that are faster, but with cooler operating temperatures. 64-bit is an up and coming technology, but there still isn’t a great deal of 64-bit software to choose from. For that reason, if you’re shopping for a new computer, I’d steer clear of 64-bit and stick with 32-bit, at least for the foreseeable future. When it comes to software, if you’re asked to select a 32- or 64-bit version, select the 32-bit.
Mr. Modem’s DME (Don’t Miss ‘Em) Sites of the Month
Charity Navigator
Have you ever wondered where your money really goes when you donate it? Who hasn’t? The Charity Navigator evaluates the financial health of America’s largest charities. Be sure to visit their Top Ten Lists which include the “10 Best Charities,” as well as “10 Charities Routinely in the Red,” “10 Charities Stockpiling Your Money,” and “10 Charities in Deep Financial Trouble.”
www.charitynavigator.org
One-Stop Instant Messaging
Launched less than two years ago, today Meebo is used to transmit more than 90 million instant messages each day. Using Meebo, you can IM from anywhere, using any computer, and it doesn’t matter if your friends, children or grandchildren are using AIM, Yahoo!, MSN, Google Talk, ICQ, Jabber or just about any other instant messaging service. Meebo is entirely Web based, so there is nothing to download or install. Even better, it’s free.
www.meebo.com
The Why Files
The objective of this site is to explore the science, math and technology behind the daily news. Recent Why File stories include information about a molecule that cures alcoholism in rats (I had no idea they drank); a scientist who perpetrated the biggest scientific fraud since my father built my 7th grade Science Fair project, and an analysis of the Bird Flu pandemic situation.
http://whyfiles.org
Mr. Modem’s weekly newsletter delivers helpful computer tips, great Web sites and his personal answers to your questions! Trial offer: Subscribe online using Promo Code MODEM and receive one free month with your six-month subscription (28 issues!) To view a sample issue or subscribe, visit www.MrModem.com.
