Back up your computer files
You have three basic options when it comes to backing up your files. You can burn your files onto a CD or DVD, copy them onto an external hard drive, or transfer them to an online storage site.
External hard drives are available for $50 and up, depending on the amount of storage space you want, whether you want a standard or portable model, and the transfer capability. Standard hard drives are less expensive than portable models, but portables are bus powered, meaning they run off the power supply of the device you plug them into – which means one less cord to worry about. External hard drives come with either USB or FireWire transfer capabilities. FireWire is more expensive, but much faster. You might also want to consider a cross-platform drive that will work on PCs and Macs. LaCie is a good manufacturer to check out.
If you aren’t sure how or what to back up, software is available to help. Windows XP users can use the backup software from their system discs. For Mac OS X users, backup software is available via your .Mac account.
Clean up your hard drive
Software can easily do this task for you, such as Spring Cleaning (Mac $49.99, Windows $29.99), which will fix common problems, delete duplicate files, and maximize your computer’s performance.
Add new software
Once you’ve finished backing up and cleaning out your computer, you might want to take the opportunity to add some new software. In “For Dummies” fashion, OrganizeMY Electronic Filing Cabinet for Dummies ($59.99) is easy to use and will help you organize files fast with its pre-loaded file structure. It will keep track of medical records, moving, insurance, warranties, accounts, prescriptions, pets, weddings, and the list goes on and on. The software runs on Windows XP and Vista, with a Mac version in the works.
Throw out old discs
Before you through out those CDs and DVDs, you might want to make sure that no one else will be able to access them. A CD/DVD shredder will scratch and dimple the surfaces enough to prevent those files from being read.
Manage those wires
For power surge protection with style and purpose, the PowerSquid Surge ($30) offers five outlets on flexible arms (for bulky A/C adapters) and comes with a 3-foot cord. In case of a power surge or outage, the PowerSquid will automatically shut down and protect your connected equipment. If the surge protection feature breaks, the PowerSquid will block power to the outlets so your equipment isn’t in danger. It comes with a $100,000 limited connected equipment warranty.
IKEA has a Cable Reel ($3.99) that works very well for speaker wires. Look for it in the lighting department, and pick up a Montera kit at the same time, which supplies all kinds of wire management options in one package.
For a professional look, Vantage Point’s Wire Cover ($34.99) can be installed in concrete, brick, or tile via its adhesive backing, screw holes, or both. It can be painted to match your wall colour and will hide 60” of wires. It also includes a 90 degree corner piece. Multiple sets can be connected.
If you want to get creative, attach a length of bamboo horizontally along the base of your wall and simply run wires through its hollow centre.
A quick trip to The Apple Store revealed the most simple solution – they use basic white nylon cable ties, which you can easily pick up at a local dollar store.
Cleaning supply checklist
LCD Cleaning solution $15Laser/Inkjet Printer Cleaning Sheets $14CD/DVD Cleaner $9CD/DVD Drive Cleaner $9Keyboard Air Blaster $15Keyboard Brush $6
You have three basic options when it comes to backing up your files. You can burn your files onto a CD or DVD, copy them onto an external hard drive, or transfer them to an online storage site.
External hard drives are available for $50 and up, depending on the amount of storage space you want, whether you want a standard or portable model, and the transfer capability. Standard hard drives are less expensive than portable models, but portables are bus powered, meaning they run off the power supply of the device you plug them into – which means one less cord to worry about. External hard drives come with either USB or FireWire transfer capabilities. FireWire is more expensive, but much faster. You might also want to consider a cross-platform drive that will work on PCs and Macs. LaCie is a good manufacturer to check out.
If you aren’t sure how or what to back up, software is available to help. Windows XP users can use the backup software from their system discs. For Mac OS X users, backup software is available via your .Mac account.
Clean up your hard drive
Software can easily do this task for you, such as Spring Cleaning (Mac $49.99, Windows $29.99), which will fix common problems, delete duplicate files, and maximize your computer’s performance.
Add new software
Once you’ve finished backing up and cleaning out your computer, you might want to take the opportunity to add some new software. In “For Dummies” fashion, OrganizeMY Electronic Filing Cabinet for Dummies ($59.99) is easy to use and will help you organize files fast with its pre-loaded file structure. It will keep track of medical records, moving, insurance, warranties, accounts, prescriptions, pets, weddings, and the list goes on and on. The software runs on Windows XP and Vista, with a Mac version in the works.
Throw out old discs
Before you through out those CDs and DVDs, you might want to make sure that no one else will be able to access them. A CD/DVD shredder will scratch and dimple the surfaces enough to prevent those files from being read.
Manage those wires
For power surge protection with style and purpose, the PowerSquid Surge ($30) offers five outlets on flexible arms (for bulky A/C adapters) and comes with a 3-foot cord. In case of a power surge or outage, the PowerSquid will automatically shut down and protect your connected equipment. If the surge protection feature breaks, the PowerSquid will block power to the outlets so your equipment isn’t in danger. It comes with a $100,000 limited connected equipment warranty.
IKEA has a Cable Reel ($3.99) that works very well for speaker wires. Look for it in the lighting department, and pick up a Montera kit at the same time, which supplies all kinds of wire management options in one package.
For a professional look, Vantage Point’s Wire Cover ($34.99) can be installed in concrete, brick, or tile via its adhesive backing, screw holes, or both. It can be painted to match your wall colour and will hide 60” of wires. It also includes a 90 degree corner piece. Multiple sets can be connected.
If you want to get creative, attach a length of bamboo horizontally along the base of your wall and simply run wires through its hollow centre.
A quick trip to The Apple Store revealed the most simple solution – they use basic white nylon cable ties, which you can easily pick up at a local dollar store.
Cleaning supply checklist
LCD Cleaning solution $15Laser/Inkjet Printer Cleaning Sheets $14CD/DVD Cleaner $9CD/DVD Drive Cleaner $9Keyboard Air Blaster $15Keyboard Brush $6
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