Rick's Daily Tips

Rick’s Daily Pick: Gskyer 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refracting Telescope

Posted on February 20, 2026

Note: The links in this post are affiliate links.

My “Pick” for today is this inexpensive, but fantastic Gskyer 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refracting Telescope.

Are you fascinated by the night sky? This super-functional entry-level telescope will let you see the moon, the constellations and several planets with your very own eyes.

This is a great way for kids and beginner adults to get started in astronomy with a decent telescope without having to spend a fortune.

Click here to check out the Gskyer 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refracting Telescope at Amazon.

Did you miss (or want to revisit) one of my earlier picks? You might find it right here.

Picture of the Day: “Serenity in the Smokies”

Posted on February 20, 2026

Today’s POTD features yet another of the small, but very picturesque waterfalls waiting for you in the Smoky Mountains of North Carolina. This was taken just a few steps from the shoulder of the Blue Ridge Parkway, not far from the town of Cherokee. I hope you like it.

Have lots of treasured photos of your own that you’d love to display in your home but you have limited wall space? A digital picture frame (#ad) is an excellent solution. Check them out!

Enjoy these Pictures of the Day? Sign up for my free Rick’s Tech Tips Newsletter and you’ll never miss one (or any of my tech tips either)!

Monthly Tech Giveaway – February 2026

Posted on January 31, 2026

Note: The links on this page are affiliate links.

February’s winner will receive a fantastic SimpliSafe 10 Piece Wireless Home Security System w/ Outdoor Camera.

Every home needs a high quality security system. This is one of the very best and it’s easy to install.

All subscribers to the Standard edition of my Rick’s Tech Tips Newsletter have an equal chance to win.

Premium subscribers have two chances to win (their email addresses are added to the “pot” twice).

Not a subscriber? Just enter your email address in the sign-up form on this page.

Once subscribed you’ll be eligible to win each month’s drawing – starting with this month. Better yet, opt for a Premium subscription for double the chance to win!

The drawing for this month’s prize will be held on February 28 and the winner will be notified by email. The winner will be selected at random.

Good luck!

Q&A: Is a 6 digit PIN really all that much more secure than 4 digits?

Posted on February 20, 2026

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Question from Andy: My girlfriend and I have a bet that’s riding on your answer to this question:

Is a six digit PIN really all that more secure than a four digit PIN?

It don’t seem like just two digits could make that much of a difference. She says it makes a big difference if someone ever tries to break into my phone.

So who’s right? [Read more…]

Finding synergy in a high-output home office

Posted on February 20, 2026

In the modern freelance economy, your home office is no longer a secondary workspace; it is the command center of your professional life.

As a virtual assistant and writer navigating the complexities of 2026, I have learned that productivity is not merely a byproduct of discipline and software—it is deeply rooted in the physical infrastructure of our environment.

The transition from a “makeshift” setup to a professional-grade office is a milestone every freelancer must face. However, the most effective approach isn’t just about buying a better chair or a larger desk in isolation. It is about understanding the synergy between your tools. [Read more…]