Your daily dose of practical, easy to follow tech tips!
A few days ago a reader asked me if it’s possible to use a full-size PC keyboard with a Windows tablet. The answer is yes as long as the keyboard supports Bluetooth connectivity.
As I was answering that question it got me to thinking about all the Apple users out there who might have a Bluetooth-enabled Mac keyboard laying around.
As one would imagine, a Mac keyboard should be the perfect keyboard to use with an Apple device running iOS. [Read more…]
Question from Paula H.: I’ve noticed that Microsoft releases most Windows Updates to everyone at once but every now and then they’ll release one to people in batches, over several days.
Why don’t they just release all updates to everyone at the same time? Seems like it would be simpler that way.
Rick’s answer: That’s a great question, Paula. And if memory serves you’re the only person who has ever asked it.
There are actually two reasons why Microsoft “rolls out” some updates instead of making them available to everyone at the same time: [Read more…]
Every now and then I receive messages asking me how to launch the OnScreen Keyboard on Windows machines that don’t have a touch screen.
There are several ways to activate the OnScreen Keyboard, but my favorite method is by simply clicking a desktop shortcut.
If you’d like to create a shortcut to the OnScreen Keyboard on your own computer, just follow the steps below: [Read more…]
Recent versions of Windows make it easy to create a Homegroup for easily sharing files, folders and printers with any or all of the PCs on your local network. In fact, it only takes a few mouse clicks and keystrokes to set one up.
Note: There are a couple of things to consider before you create your Homegroup and begin sharing your computer’s resources: [Read more…]
Do you wish there was a faster and easier way to adjust the brightness of your computer screen?
Well, there is, and it’s a real time-saver!
A nifty free utility called ClickMonitorDDC lets you adjust your screen brightness by simply clicking an icon in the Windows notification area and selecting a new value.
Alternatively, you can save even more time by hovering your mouse over the icon and rolling the mouse wheel to change the brightness level. Either way is fine – whatever works best for you.
ClickMonitor DDC is a tiny portable utility that doesn’t have to be installed, and it couldn’t be easier to use. Here’s how: [Read more…]