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A Periodic Newsletter for the Members of the Sarasota PC User Group and the World!!

Let's Start With A Windows Tip

One of the simplest and most often overlooked ways to protect your computer is to keep your OS and applications up-to-date. Windows includes a handy Windows Update feature that makes it easy to keep up with the latest security releases (but only if you use it). Windows XP users have an additional advantage. They can configure the update feature to automatically notify them about new updates. WinXP Service Pack 2 was initially available only through the automatic update feature, which emphasizes the importance of keeping this feature turned on.

Here's A Hardware Tip

Evaluate LCDs

As with CRTs, the most prominent distinguishing feature separating one monitor from the next is size. A bigger monitor is always going to be nice, and LCDs have the advantage of taking up little desk space no matter how large the display.
Before you decide, however, check out a couple of other factors. Look up the monitor's contrast ratio, which is the difference between the lightest and darkest areas of the screen. A higher contrast ratio is better.
Next, ask about pixel pitch, or the distance from one pixel to the next. Monitors with smaller pixel pitches will display a sharper picture. This is particularly important with larger displays.
Finally, inquire about the monitor's native resolution. Although CRTs can display the same screen at different resolutions, an LCD uses only one, such as 1,024 x 768 pixels. If a display model looks unexpectedly poor in a store, ask the salesperson if the computer driving the monitor is set to the monitor's native resolution.

Got something "computer related" to sell? Looking for that rare peripheral? If it's computer related you can submit a short classified ad for exposure in Dave "Bytes". Be sure to include your name and e-mail address in the ad. You can also include a picture of the item. Now some would suggest that there be a charge for this feature but alas, since my bookkeeping skills leave much to be desired I've determined that this will be a free service to all SPCUG members in good standing. "Bytes" is currently sent to almost 1500 homes in the area. Ad requests will be included as soon as possible. I assume absolutely no responsibility as to the accuracy or completeness of supplied info. All transactions are between consulting adults which leaves me entirely off the hook. Please let me know by clicking HERE when your merchandise is sold so that I can remove it from the listing. I will try to run each ad for a month.

Here's An Internet Explorer Tip

You may want to clear out your Internet browsing history occasionally. IE users should click Tools and Internet Options. Click the General tab and click the Clear History button. Netscape users, click Edit in the Menu bar, then Preferences. Click History in the Navigator section of the Preferences dialog box and then click the Clear History button in the upper-right corner of the dialog box.