In the last couple of weeks I’ve had two instances of a computer not powering up as expected. First it was my own family desktop. Then last week a client asked me if I could replace the power supply in her desktop.

Her cousin had ensured her that the problem with her laptop not starting up was due to a fried power supply due to a severe lightning and thunderstorm that knocked out the electricity to the house.
It makes obvious sense. Occam’s razor theory would suggest that the most logical and simple cause is more than likely the one you’re …read more

OKAY! I admit it! I spend WAY too much time on my computer and on the Internet. I’ve got to balance that though with the knowledge that I make my living by working on computers, developing applications, designing websites, blogging and being active in a variety of social media outlets. But sometimes you really need a break don’t you? When do you call it time to unplug?

Taking a break for a few days from being plugged in. It’s a battle for me. Most of the time when I’m “attached” to the network I’m in the process of making money for …read more

We’ve all been happy and frustrated when we have wi-fi access at our local coffee shops or other businesses. We like to relax in our favorite 3rd place for work and enjoy a little community interaction at the same time.

I’ve found that my major challenge when working remotely though is finding power outlets that are available. I had an idea the other day for a new iPhone app that would let you search for a business establishment and then see a floor diagram of the tables and wall layout. You could then see what tables had power outlets available to …read more

For some reason the other day I hovered my mouse over the battery meter in my taskbar and noticed the little power bubble pop-up and show the information shown above.
Do you see that?
101% battery power remaining. 101%!
That’s nice to know isn’t it? The only problem is I know better. If you’ve ever seen me at a conference you know I’m now the guy carrying around the power strip so I can hopefully plug-in anywhere I go (or sit to be more exact). The reason is that my battery gives me about 15 minutes of power tops.
That fact was …read more

I’ve gotten a little more hands-on experience with Microsoft Vista lately. Will be getting more I’m sure in the days ahead. My business partner recently purchased a new laptop and it came pre-loaded with Vista. He’s been migrating most of his software and preferences over to the new machine, but that normally falls under my umbrella of responsibilities.
Also, yesterday evening as I was assisting one of my clients with some of their computer needs, his wife had recently purchased a new laptop and it had Vista installed on it as well. I only needed to setup her machine to connect …read more