computer hardware Archives - Page 4 of 10

Why your computer really needs a battery backup device

Posted on October 22, 2023

Rick’s Tech Tips Newsletter

Note: The links in this post are affiliate links.

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…]

Should you buy a refurbished computer on Amazon?

Posted on October 8, 2023

Note: The links on this page are affiliate links.

A couple of people have asked me if buying a refurbished (or renewed) computer on Amazon instead of a new one is a wise move, and my answer is “it depends”.

I know that’s a rather squishy answer, but it’s the best one I have.

Here are a few things to consider while contemplating the potential purchase of a refurbished computer: [Read more…]

How to prevent your laptop’s keys from fading

Posted on September 5, 2023

The typical computer keyboard uses dozens of black keys labeled with white letters, numbers and symbols.

Over time these labels fade out and eventually disappear as they are touched and pressed numerous times.

For touch typists, fading keys are no big deal, but for the countless “hunt-and-peck” typists in the world it’s a big deal indeed.

In fact, it’s a bit like turning off the lights and typing in the dark. [Read more…]

3 reasons why you need an external USB hard drive

Posted on August 14, 2023

Note: The links in this post are affiliate links.

External hard drives used to be expensive luxuries that transferred data between the PC and the drive at a relative snail’s pace.

But thankfully, that has all changed thanks to the proliferation of incredibly fast, yet very inexpensive external USB hard drives.

In fact, prices have now dropped to where you can pick one up starting at around $50.

I now believe that every computer user should own at least one external USB hard drive, for the following reasons: [Read more…]

Get detailed information about your PC’s hardware with HWiNFO

Posted on July 11, 2023

There are several handy free utilities out there that will tell you what hardware is inside your PC.

One of the best I’ve ever used is HWiNFO.

Like Speccy, HWiNFO is a free program that provides tons of details about your system’s CPU, motherboard, memory and such.

But HWiNFO also provides a live snapshot of the CPU temperature and various system voltages, great information to have if you’re a computer tech or system builder. [Read more…]