TECH In All Things

honest, affordable computer support

Linux Mint 10 RC

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Just want to let you know that Linux Mint 10 RC has been available for a bit now. I finally got some time to download the iso’s from here: DownLoad LinuxMint 10 RC I am preparing to install over my Linux Mint 9 install. I have never had any trouble with a Mint RC version. As always you should make a backup of your data before attempting any major OS upgrade.

I’m looking forward to trying it out, and when I get a handle on all the new features I will post a follow up.

Oh Yeah!

Windows Live Writer

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livewriterI just noticed that windows live essentials had an update recently. One of the applications I use almost daily is: Windows Live Writer, a component of Live Essentials. It is now version 2011 and looks a lot like Microsoft Word. I have already used it to publish a post or two, so It’s working. I will have to poke around a bit to see if they added any new features or fixed any bugs. However for now, I’m pleased with the overall look and feel.

Oh Yeah!

livewriter1

Just went to a customers house to install a new keyboard in their laptop. As soon as I took off the old keyboard, I noticed that it was very dirty inside the machine. They asked me if there was anything I could do to speed it up and make it not hang so much. The laptop was several years old and had never been cleaned. The vent slots on the bottom of the laptop were completely clogged with dust and animal hair. I just took the thing apart and was shocked to find about on inch of dust and hair blocking the exhaust fan. I used a can of air and cleaned the thing out. Let’s just say it’s running a lot cooler now. So if you have a laptop and it’s more than 6 months old you need to clean it out. Either hire someone or do it yourself, but if you don’t it will just overheat and die. Then you will be forced to buy a new one and you might lose data. So just get your laptop cleaned out!

Oh Yeah!

I recently purchased from Costco the Microsoft Comfort Desktop 5000. That’s the long way to say wireless keyboard and mouse combo pack. Anyway, it’s turned out to be an ok setup. There is a small usb key to manage both devices. The keyboard is nice. It has quiet keys and is somewhat ergonomically designed. The mouse however is not so great. It’s bulky and it has some lag when trying to game. Also the wheel is smooth, no clicks so it’s going to take some getting used to how far to move the wheel to get where I’m trying to go. They both require batteries. 4 AA for the set. It came with some to start off. I have no idea how long they will last. If I keep this setup I will invest in a set of rechargeable ones. The following link has some pictures and specs from Microsoft’s website. I only paid $49 at Costco. Membership has it’s benefits. Oh Yeah!

http://www.microsoft.com/hardware/mouseandkeyboard/productdetails.aspx?pid=117