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Tech Talk

Rain, Rain, Go Away…

by Charles Swarts published June 2010

Prepare now for the summer storms

Q: Rainy season is coming. What can I do to protect my computers and other electronics from the storms?

The best thing you can do for your electronics is to make sure they’re plugged into an uninterruptible power source (UPS). A UPS differs from a surge suppressor in that it has its own battery on board, so it not only protects from power spikes, but from power drops – which are just as potentially damaging to your electronic equipment – as well. You can purchase reliable brands of UPS’s from many of the larger stores in town, but I favor the TrippLite model available from Sam’s Club. Not only is it a high-quality UPS, but it also has a button that lets you shut off the alarm so you don’t have to listen to incessant beeping when the power is out for extended periods.

Tech Talk

It's Gettin' Hot in There

by Charles Swarts published April 2010

Inside your computer, heat can be a problem

I am getting ready to leave for the Summer. How can I protect my computer while I am gone?

It's all about storage. To store your computer properly, you will need to buy a couple of items. First, go to any of the plastics stores and buy one of the large, thick, clear plastic bags. Get one larger than your computer. Next, go to any store and buy a box of disposable diapers. Yes, diapers.

Tech Talk

Computer Care: Weather Wear & Tear

by Charles Swarts published February 2010

Mazatlán’s “perfect” climate can wreak havoc on your computer

Q: Some of my CDs and DVDs have black and green blotches on them and are ruined. What happened? Is there a way to save them?

While there is a CD-eating fungus that’s been documented in tropical climates, the more likely cause is the salt air corroding the reflective metal layer of the CD or DVD. There’s nothing you can do to rescue already-damaged disks, but there are ways to prevent damage to future disks.

The best thing you can do for your discs is always keep them covered; don’t leave them sitting out on your desk or bookshelf. Any kind of case works, even the cheap paper sleeves. The important thing is to protect them from dust because dust significantly speeds the corrosion process.

Tech Talk