TechGuy News

As it turns out, lightening and computers just don't mix. After a recent lightening storm, we had over 30 computers dropped off at our store within two days!

From my experience, the most common culprit is not a surge in power through your electrical outlet, but instead a surge of power through the telephone line connected to your computer's modem. Speaking of which, if you're on high-speed, disconnect your dial-up modem! If you're still using dial-up, you should get a surge suppressor that includes connectors for your telephone line... and hook it up. :-)

It's a good idea to invest in a good surge suppressor, especially if you live in an area that frequently has lightening storms or other power issues. I also recommend that you invest in a UPS, or Uninterruptible Power Supply.

A UPS frequently looks like an oversized power strip, but is really battery that allows your computer to run if the power goes out. They're advertised by the number of minutes the average computer will run with no power. Most likely, your power doesn't go off very frequently, or for very long. I still believe you should have a UPS, as they'll help to filter electrical noise and help maintain consistent power to your computer, even during small "brown outs," such as when an air conditioner's compressor kicks on. As a result, you don't really need the giant 60 minute UPS. A cheaper, say 15 minute, UPS can be found at your local electronics or office superstore for less than $50. Not only will it help save your computer in case of a black out, but will also extend your computer's lifespan by giving it consistent power every day.

As my shoes began to fall apart during a recent run, I decided that it was time to buy a new pair! And, what kind of shoes does a geek buy? Why, one that will connect to my iPod, of course!

Nike+ shoes have been around for a while now, but it seems a lot of people aren't really familiar with them. Here's the way it works: you buy a special pair of shoes from your local Nike store. These Nike+ shoes have a small pocket in the left shoe where you can put a wireless pedometer. The pedometer is designed to communicate with your Apple iPod Nano.

While you're running, your iPod displays how far you've gone, how long you've run, and other relevant details. At any time, you can press the center button of your iPod to hear a voice speak that same information to you while you run. It's a lot easier than trying to read a small screen while running and trying not to be run over!

Nike and Apple have taken things a step further than that. When you synchronize your iPod to your computer, it sends data from your runs to Nike's web site, where you can view your previous runs, look at graphs of your progress, set goals, and optionally share that information with other runners. You can even compete in virtual races with runners around the world. Now all we need is a TechGuy Running Team!

Visit www.NikePlus.com to find out more.

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