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Newsletter Number Twenty - May 2007
In this Newsletter... Spam Filters, the death of Floppy Drives, USB Drives and more....
You're getting this Newsletter because you are a client, friend, prospect or just because you enjoy the content and want to be kept in touch with some of the trends affecting Small Businesses and Information Technology.
Thank you for joining me again this month. As always, I trust that you'll find this issue informative, interesting and of value.
Springtime...
Spring has sprung, the grass 'as riss'
I wonder where the birdies iss'
The birdies' on the wing!!
but that's absurd,
the wing is on the bird.
I think we've had Spring, Summer, a sprinkle of Winter and Fall too, all in one month! At least it's warm, I think?
Spring Computer Interior Clean-up
Spring is traditionally a little slower for me and I again offer my clients a cleanup of the interior of your system. I bring along my air compressor and remove the covers, give the components, heatsinks and fans a blowup of the collection of lint and dust. Remember that heat is the enemy of computer components. I offer this service at a reduced price. This is because I schedule the calls when I'm in your area so it works for both of us. Call for an appointment and cost of the service.
Spam Filters
The amount of spam continues to increase as the "spammers" find ways to get around the filters. One of the better "tools" available is still the successor to Qurb, now CA® Anti-Spam 2007. Read more about it. It's affordable at $29.95US (about $34.00CDN). From the link you can also download a 30 day free trial.
It works by going through your Sent Folder and Contact List and creates an Approved Senders List. From then on, any email that comes in from an address not on the list goes directly to the spam folder. You do need to take a quick look through it to approve email from people that you know. This is much quicker that sifting through the myriads of email that would normally get through to your Inbox. Occasionally spam does end up in your Inbox (no it's not 100% accurate - sorry). All you need do it click on the "Block" button installed in your email client. If you want to minimise the amount of spam, give it a try.
The death of the Floppy Drive
Have you noticed that very few systems today are equipped with floppy disk drives? Most (or should I say all) new computer systems are equipped with USB 2.0 Ports. Some are also fitted with Multi-Card Readers, capable of reading Compact Flash, Secure Digital, Memory Stick and the variations available.
USB "Key" Drives - the alternative
This (above) is the KingMax 2GB USB 2.0 Flash Drive and is available at a cost of around $45.00. Its capacity is equivalent to 1400 Floppy Disks. The data transfer rate is much faster than floppy disks and can safely go in your pocket. The one in the picture measures 34mm or < 1.4 inches in length. It's encapsulated in plastic and supposedly is waterproof, although I have not tested it (nor am I likely to). It's a good way of carrying files around (like your accounting, presentation, spreadsheets, or pictures). It's also an easy way of moving files from one system to another.
If you really need a Floppy Drive, they are available with USB connectivity too.
Spot the Typo (continues)? Win a Prize (a standing offer)...
Yes... I do make typographical errors from time to time (who would have guessed)? Mainly because I'm a lousy proofreader of my own work. Sometimes I get the newsletter proofread - mostly not, because I leave it too late and then just want to get it out to you. Here's the deal. If you spot an error, send me an email with the details and I'll correct it on the Web Site copy and you get a mouse pad and a pen for your troubles and helping me.
In the upcoming issue... More on Vista, why Grisoft AVG AntiVirus, and protecting yourself againt spyware....
Once again, I appreciate your perspective on the content of my newsletter, both good and bad. I look forward to hearing from you. Just click this feedback link and let me have your comments.
PS: Feel free to forward this issue to any peers, friends and associates you think would benefit from its contents. They will thank you, and so will I!
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