Tech Questions & Answers Archives

Q&A: Will my existing USB devices work with a new MacBook Pro?

Posted on January 4, 2026

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Question from Kelly: I’m thinking about buying a new Apple MacBook Pro but I need a bit of advice first.

The reviews I’ve read were great, but they said this machine doesn’t have any old-style USB ports, only USB-C.

If I buy this laptop will I have to replace my external hard drive and other USB devices with new ones that have USB-C connections? [Read more…]

Q&A: Why does Windows 11 use so much RAM on a new PC?

Posted on January 3, 2026

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Question from Bill: I have an Acer desktop PC with 4 GB of RAM that I updated to Windows 11 a while back.

When I have all the programs and browser tabs that I normally use open at the same time the Task Manager says there is approximately 1.2 GB of RAM not being used.

I recently bought a brand new Dell desktop with 8 GB of RAM and Windows 11.

When I have the same exact configuration of programs and browser tabs open on the new machine it says there is still less than 2 GB of RAM that’s not being used.

How can this be? [Read more…]

Q&A: Can a phone catch a virus from an infected email?

Posted on December 26, 2025

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Question from Theresa: Rick, I was wondering if it’s possible for an infected email to load a virus onto a smartphone?

Last night I was using my iPhone to check my email and I accidentally opened an email that appeared to be from China while I was trying to delete it. When the email opened up it said it was downloading a file.

I haven’t noticed any problems with the phone so far. I’m cautiously optimistic because I’ve always been told that only Windows computers are subject to virus infections.

Do you think I have anything to worry about? [Read more…]

Q&A: Can you give me advice on choosing a new laptop?

Posted on December 22, 2025

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Question from Janessa: My company allots every employee $1000 every 2 years to buy a new laptop, and I have until January 28 to pick one out and put in the request for it.

I’ve checked out some laptops online and I’m really confused about what I should buy. Even though the company is paying for it, this laptop will be mine to keep. The problem is there are so many to choose from!

Can you point me in the right direction? [Read more…]