Rick's Daily Tips

Rick’s Daily Pick: Sperry Instruments GFI6302 GFCI Outlet / Receptacle Tester

Posted on November 7, 2025

Note: The links in this post are affiliate links.

My “Pick” for today is this inexpensive, but incredibly useful Sperry Instruments GFI6302 GFCI Outlet / Receptacle Tester.

Incorrectly wired electrical outlets will prevent your surge protectors from working as they should, putting everything that’s plugged into them at risk of being damaged by an upcoming power surge.

And even worse, incorrectly wired outlets are a potential fire hazard, putting your entire home and your family at risk.

Are the outlets in your home wired correctly? You can find out in minutes with this tester. Simply plug it into each outlet and look at the indicator lights.

Click here to check out the Sperry Instruments GFI6302 GFCI Outlet / Receptacle Tester at Amazon.

Picture of the Day: “Horse and Buttercups”

Posted on November 7, 2025

Today’s POTD features a horse grazing in a southwestern Virginia pasture field that’s blanketed with colorful buttercup blossoms. I hope you like the photo.

Have lots of treasured photos of your own that you’d love to display in your home but you have limited wall space? A digital picture frame (#ad) is an excellent solution. Check them out!

Enjoy these Pictures of the Day? Sign up for my free Rick’s Tech Tips Newsletter and you’ll never miss one (or any of my tech tips either)!

Monthly Tech Giveaway – November 2025

Posted on October 31, 2025

Note: The links on this page are affiliate links.

October’s winner will receive a fantastic Lenovo Idea Tab 11″ Tablet with Pen.

This premium Android tablet can do most anything you need a tablet to do (and you’ll love the large 11 inch screen).

All subscribers to the Standard edition of my Rick’s Tech Tips Newsletter have an equal chance to win.

Premium subscribers have two chances to win (their email addresses are added to the “pot” twice).

Not a subscriber? Just enter your email address in the sign-up form on this page.

Once subscribed you’ll be eligible to win each month’s drawing – starting with this month. Better yet, opt for a Premium subscription for double the chance to win!

The drawing for this month’s prize will be held on November 30 and the winner will be notified by email. The winner will be selected at random.

Good luck!

Q&A: How can I quickly see what time it is in a foreign country?

Posted on November 7, 2025

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Question from Glenda: My son accepted a job in Brisbane, Australia and he now lives there.

My problem is I seem to wake him up every time I call him. I guess I’m horrible with time zones.

Is there an easy way to quickly see what time it is over there so I can avoid disturbing him when he’s sleeping? Maybe an app I an install on my computer? [Read more…]

Q&A: Who makes better laptops, Dell or HP?

Posted on November 6, 2025

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Note: The links in this post are affiliate links.

Question from Anita: I’m planning to buy a new laptop to replace the one I have now. It has never performed well so I’d like to try a different brand.

I’ve been asking around about recommendations for a good brand, and most people seem to like either Dell or HP. The problem is there doesn’t seem to be a consensus.

I’ve been following your blog for a while now and I really trust your judgment. Which is better in your opinion, Dell or HP? [Read more…]

Why are more and more people choosing fat-tire electric bikes? A comprehensive look from practicality to riding experience

Posted on November 6, 2025

As urban cycling becomes increasingly popular, the pace of innovation in electric bikes is astounding. In particular, fat tire electric bikes are reshaping the landscape, becoming the top choice for many riders thanks to their unique “fat tire” design and all-terrain adaptability.

So what exactly makes fat tire electric bikes stand out? Let’s take a deep dive—from practicality to riding experience—and explore the “fat-tire revolution” in modern commuting.

[Read more…]