Tech News Archives - Page 12 of 135

Why you need a ‘Whole House’ surge suppressor

Posted on February 11, 2024

Note: The links in this post are affiliate links.

If your home is like most others these days it probably has surge suppressors plugged into the outlets that are powering a sensitive electronic device.

And some homes have one plugged into every outlet.

These portable surge suppressors are fine for protecting your computer equipment, flat panel TVs and other devices from moderate power surges.

However, if your incoming power line gets struck by lightning or a strong power surge you will likely be replacing many of those items the very next day. [Read more…]

Q&A: Are Chromebooks safer than Windows laptops?

Posted on February 10, 2024

Note: The links in this post are affiliate links.

Question from Patsy: My friend just bought a Chromebook after the salesman at the computer store told her they are safer to use than Windows computers.

Among other things, he said it’s impossible for a Chromebook to catch a virus.

I’d just like to know if you agree with him because I’m needing to get a new laptop myself.

So, are Chromebooks really safer than Windows laptops? [Read more…]

Monthly Tech Giveaway – February 2024

Posted on January 31, 2024

Note: The links on this page are affiliate links.

February’s winner will receive this super-compact, but powerful Beelink Mini PC.

This little gem is about the size of an extra wide brick but it has all the power and features of a full-size mid-grade desktop PC.

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 form on this page. Once subscribed you’ll be eligible to win each month’s drawing – starting with this month!

The drawing for this Beelink Mini PC will be held on the evening of February 28 and the winner will be notified by email. The winner will be selected at random.

Good luck!

Does your Apple device qualify for a free replacement battery?

Posted on January 29, 2024

For reasons I explained in this post, I usually recommend skipping the extended warranty when you buy a new computer or mobile device.

That being said, plenty of folks disagree with me, and that’s fine.

If having your new computer or other device covered by an extended warranty gives you a warm and fuzzy feeling and lets you sleep well at night, then I’d say it’s money well spent.

And guess what? If you happen to have an Apple device that’s covered by an AppleCare Protection Plan, it might already qualify to receive a new battery at no charge under the plan. [Read more…]