Rick's Daily Tips

Q&A: Can lightning damage something that’s turned off?

Posted on March 1, 2026

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Question from Karen: I have a question about surge protection after reading this article of yours.

If there’s a lightning strike and your TV and computer gear are not on at the time, will the strike still damage the equipment?

I have heard that you should unplug your electronic things during an electrical storm but I’ve also heard that if something is turned off lightning won’t hurt it even if it’s plugged in. [Read more…]

Q&A: How long do USB Flash Drives retain their data?

Posted on February 28, 2026

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Question from Shaina: I have this USB flash drive with several hundred photos on it that I scanned during a recent visit to my grandmother’s house.

These are precious family pictures that will be difficult to replace if something were to happen to them.

I really don’t want to lose these photos and I was wondering how long I can count on the drive retaining them if I lock it up in my little fireproof safe? [Read more…]

Monthly Tech Giveaway – March 2026

Posted on February 28, 2026

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March’s winner will receive a fantastic Samsung 27” Odyssey OLED G5 Gaming Monitor.

Whether you’re a gamer looking to up your gaming experience or a regular user who is just looking for a great monitor to replace the one you have now, this is a fantastic option.

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 March 31 and the winner will be notified by email. The winner will be selected at random.

Good luck!

Sign up to get my daily Tech Tips via email!

Posted on February 28, 2026

Hi there!

I’m Rick Rouse, an A+ Certified Computer Tech with over 40 years of experience in the IT field.

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And finally, all subscribers to the Standard edition of my Rick’s Tech Tips Newsletter have an equal chance to win my monthly Tech Giveaway drawing.

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

March’s winner will receive a Samsung 27” Odyssey OLED G5 Gaming Monitor..

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