Laptop or desktop computers and any components within.
Hardware
What NAS should I get?
Episode 1422
Eric from
Eric is looking to get a new NAS and wants to know whether he should get a Drobo or Synology? He wants everything on RAID that can be swappable. Leo says that Drobo is USB and is essentially a very large, fast USB external drive system. But for network attached storage, Leo prefers Synology. It's a computer with massive storage on his network.So it really comes down to what he'll want to use it for.
Can I run a slideshow on a TV?
Episode 1422
JR from
JR wants to know what would be the easiest way to set up a slideshow presentation that he can show on an HDTV. Leo says that many TVs have USB slots, but it depends if the software supports running photo slideshows. JR could use AirPlay with his iPhone and keep the slideshow on it. Or he can make a movie of the slideshow and the TV could play it.
What's a good mini Bluetooth keyboard?
Episode 1422
Greg from
Greg is locked into using an old phone because his skin is too dry to use a touch screen. Is there a smartphone that has raised keys anymore? Leo says Greg could use a standard Bluetooth keyboard with any smartphone and that would solve a lot of his problem. Leo recommends the Aerb wireless keyboard at Amazon. It has a trackpad with it, and is only the size of a game controller. The RII i28 is another one.
What computer should I buy?
Episode 1422
Sylvia wants to get a new computer but can't decide between a laptop and a desktop. Leo says that in general, a desktop is best for business. A laptop is for personal use. Since Sylvia does video and photo editing, she also should get Adobe's Creative Cloud. She'll also need a minimum of 16GB of RAM, but for video, 32 would be even better.
What wireless doorbell should I buy?
Episode 1422
Jorge from
Jorge wants to get a wireless doorbell. Suggestions? Leo says that he uses Ring, and they are also a sponsor. There's also Skybell. But these smart internet enabled doorbells represent a security risk because they're connected to the internet (called Internet of Things) and often they aren't updated. So if someone can break into his network, they may be able to break into his house or system. With that warning, Leo says that Ring does a great job.
How can I protect my home from lightning strikes?
Episode 1421
Jay from
Jay's house was in a recent thunder storm and his cable modem (and other devices) are dead. What happened? Leo says that the cable modem has more than one access point to get zapped by power surges from a lightning strike. If there is a lightning storm, the best route is to disconnect and unplug. Another tip is to look into whole-home surge suppression, installed by an electrician.
The Giz Wiz ... ready for his close up
Episode 1420
For those that like to make videos with a smartphone, then check out the Movo Smartphone Video Rig with a Stereo Microphone, Grip Handle, & Wrist Strap. (It's also available without the microphone kit for under $30.) This kit is designed to improve the production value of smartphone video by letting one add mics, lights, a tripod, etc. Perfect for live-streaming, vlogging, interviews, performances, etc. (There are three female 1/4" threads for mounting accessories and tripod.) Also an integrated cold shoe mount microphone & lights.
Should I buy a new laptop?
Episode 1420
Brian from
Brian is looking to get a new Intel 8th-gen Core laptop. Leo says that the last few generations of processors really haven't had much of a boost in performance, making it really difficult to justify buying a new PC just for the processor. But if one needs a new PC, Leo recommends the Thinkpad X1 Yoga. It's a 2-in-1 that allows customers to turn it into a tablet.
What should I get as my new computer?
Episode 1420
Joe from
Joe is 76 years old and is ready to buy a new computer. General purpose computers can do anything, but they are often over powered and can be security nightmares for those who don't need a lot of performance. So Leo recommends a tablet or a Chromebook. They are relatively secure and very affordable.
Can I own my own modem?
Episode 1419
Cecil from
Cecil has been dealing with issues with Spectrum and he's replaced the router. Can he replace the modem too? Leo says yes. He can buy his own modem and save himself a $10 a month rental charge in the process. He'll want to check with Spectrum to see what routers Spectrum supports, and based on those, he can buy his own. Most support the Surfboard DOCSIS III. There's also the NETGEAR Nighthawk.
