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Rick

Rick’s guide to trouble free computing

Advice chairIn January, this web site and my business will turn 13 years old. In that time, I have worked on thousands of computers ranging from the oldest DOS machines to the newest gaming and Mac monsters. My youngest client in that time has been 5 years old and my oldest was a 94 year old author writing a book for the first time on a PC. When your work in any field for a certain period of time, you start to spot patterns and consistencies.

After incubating the idea in my head for about six months, I want to share with you (and anyone you forward this article to) my opinion of how to use computer technology with the bare minimum of issues and cash. The following would be my advice to a computer user who truly wanted to follow my advice, no questions asked, based on my knowledge and experience.

  1. Buy a mid-range laptop costing no more than $600. Immediately install Ubuntu Linux on the laptop and allow Ubuntu to completely erase the drive’s contents (Windows and a ton of trial ware) as it installs. Ubuntu will provide you a top notch Office productivity package (word processor, spreadsheet, presentation manager, etc), tons of games, CD/DVD burning, secure, fast Internet browsing with Firefox, photo management and editing software, and more for no cost. Ubuntu also does not require

KAFM Computer Show Podcast – 07-13-11

Adam was off this week, so my daughter, Bri, stepped in and did an excellent job as my co-host. Am I biased, or do you concur? Have a listen and then leave a comment with your thoughts. Thanks!

How to disable trackpad when typing on your laptop

First look for a button or hot key combination that your laptop might provide to disable the trackpad or adjust its sensitivity…that will be the best method. However, if you cannot find or don’t have that option, these two downloads may help you type in more peace with your laptop: TouchFreeze TouchPadPal

HelpMeRick.com Podcast with Rick & Adam – 06-09-12

We had a couple of false starts on this week’s podcast, but quickly got into some interesting discussions about Microsoft and their upcoming version of Windows (release next year??), Weiner-gate, of course Apple news and much more. Thanks for listening!!

HelpMeRick.com Podcast with Rick & Adam – 05-26-11

Super fast editing from Mr. Adam this week allows us to reveal a podcast with some cursing, incredible stories of horrible customer service, technician incompetence and more!! Listen and then leave your comments and questions below!!

Troubleshooting Sharing Printers in Windows 7 or Vista – Video Tip

Windows Vista and 7 have helped make networking computers a little easier, but there are still some idiosyncrasies  that can be irritating. One of those is the default password required for sharing of printers or files. You can shut it off, thankfully. Here’s how: Click Start Type:  Advanced Look for and click Manage Advanced Sharing Options Scroll down to the Password Protected… Read More »Troubleshooting Sharing Printers in Windows 7 or Vista – Video Tip

KAFM Computer Help Show Podcast – 05-11-11

Tonight’s show was fast paced due to some breaking news from Microsoft buying Skype, listener phone calls and many other topics that kept us jabbering. Have a listen and let us know what you think by leaving a comment!