computer hardware Archives - Rick's Daily Tips

Why your computer really needs a battery backup device

Posted on May 12, 2026

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Battery backup devices have been around for decades now, but relatively few computer owners use them. And based upon my experience, that is a mistake.

What are battery backups (and why do I need one)?

If you’re unfamiliar with how it works, a battery backup unit basically sits idly by monitoring the power line for voltage drops and power outages.

When an issue with the power line occurs, the power source to the computer is switched virtually instantaneously from line power (electrical outlet) to the unit’s internal battery. This prevents the computer from losing power.

Why is preventing your computer from losing power important? Well, there are several reasons: [Read more…]

Q&A: How do I speed up my mouse pointer?

Posted on April 8, 2026

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Question from Rhonda: It seems the mouse speed on my Windows computer needs to be adjusted.

It seems like it’s too slow or something.

I seem to remember long ago someone telling me this could be done. Is this possible?

Rick’s answer: [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…]

How to charge any laptop (or most any other gadget) with your car

Posted on January 9, 2026

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These days it’s hard to imagine taking a long drive without having a car charger on board to keep the battery in your cell phone topped off.

But what about your laptop?

While some modern laptops can be charged with a standard USB-type car charger and a compatible cable, there are plenty of others that can only be charged using the AC power brick that came with the laptop. [Read more…]

Here’s the best way to open a link in a new browser tab

Posted on October 5, 2025

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If you’re like me you probably want many of the links you click to open in a new browser tab.

Most people do this in one of two ways:

1 – Hold down the Ctrl key while clicking the link.

or…

2 – Right-click on the link, then click on Open link in new tab.

Both of those methods work great in the browsers that support them, but there’s an even better way to get a link to open in a new tab… [Read more…]