Rick's Daily Tips

How to save money when shopping for a new computer

Posted on September 29, 2026

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Folks often ask me what they need to look for when they go shopping for a new computer.

In a nutshell, they want to buy the best machine they can get without spending any more than they have to.

In some ways trying to find the right computer is a lot like shopping for a new car. There are always dozens of “current models” to choose from, and they tend to look a whole lot alike.

[Read more…]

Understanding modern AI image editing and the evolution of creative workflows

Posted on September 29, 2026

Introduction

Image editing’s changed a lot over the past decade. It used to mean getting comfortable with layers, masks, selections, color adjustments, and a whole pile of other technical controls.

Those tools still matter for professional designers, but AI’s making a lot of editing tasks far more approachable — you can describe a change in plain language or use simpler controls instead. [Read more…]

How to pin the Volume Mixer to the Taskbar in Windows 11

Posted on September 28, 2026

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Do you find yourself frequently using the Volume Mixer on your Windows 11 PC?

If so, you can save a little time by pinning it right to your Taskbar so you can access it with a single click. [Read more…]

How to use your own Office software on any PC (even a borrowed one)

Posted on September 27, 2026

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Do you ever find yourself needing to use Microsoft Office on a PC that doesn’t have it installed?

An easy solution is to use a cloud-based Office suite like Microsoft 365 Online or Google Docs, but what if you happen to be in a place that doesn’t have Internet access?

Well, there’s a simple (and free) solution to this problem: Simply put the portable version of Libre Office on a USB flash drive and take it with you everywhere you go! [Read more…]

Q&A: Why did they give Bluetooth technology that odd name?

Posted on September 26, 2026

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Question from Ken: I know that Bluetooth is the wireless signal that connects smartphones to speakers and other portable devices.

What I’m curious about is why did they choose the name Bluetooth?

That seems like a really odd name for something to do with technology. [Read more…]