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Tools of the trade

Every profession has its tools. I have found a number of great tools that help get me through the day.

If you or someone you know tinkers with computer, here are some of the essential tools.

1. Swiss Army USB flash drive knife – This is a genuine Swiss Army knife with a built in USB flash drive, flashlight, ball point pen, screwdriver (perfect size for computer screws), scissors and knife.

2. External hard drive enclosure – this is a cool device that lets you place any hard drive into it to convert it into an external USB drive. These are perfect for transfering data from one computer to another.

Velcro – reuseable duck tape

I discovered a new tool this week – the Velcro strap. I have seen them around for a few years, but I just began using them this week.

Personally, I think that cable mess is cool. I think it is a geek status symbol. However, I know that there are a lot of people out there who prefer to keep their cables tidy.

The reuseable Velcro cable strap. You can get them in the computer department of almost any office supply or discount store, I have found that they are a lot cheaper if you go to the tool or building supply department though.

Blood relation does not equal computer expertise

A few years ago, I added two items to my list of common advice that I give.

1. Don’t let your kids fix your computer, no matter how old they are or who they work for.

2. Blood relation does not equal computer expertise.

I know that this makes me sound arrogant at times, but my first appointment this morning was a case in point.

It was a simple enough job, I was to setup a laptop and get it online. My client didn’t need any information transferred or any special tutoring, she just needed someone to tackle the initial setup with confidence.

Since this was my client’s first laptop she had consulted me a number of times about what to get and what to spend. Since Christmas, I had told her about a few good deals that were in the paper.

Keep Your Computer Clean

I am often asked what is the best way to clean a computer. Here’s how to do it safely:

In past tips, we discussed the importance of good air circulation around your CPU (Central Processing Unit)…the big box where you put CD’s and disks. One spot to start your cleaning is looking at the back end of the CPU and make sure that the vents do not contain too much lent and dust. If so, use a can of compressed air to blow the dust and lent away. It is best to keep your computer off when blowing the dust
from it.

If you feel up to the task, opening the CPU case and blowing out the inside of it is helpful as well. Again, shut the computer off first.