Hardware

Laptop or desktop computers and any components within.

How Can I Install the Latest Windows Update?

Windows

Episode 1642

Michael from LA, CA

Michael is having issues upgrading to the latest Windows 10 update. It keeps failing. What can he do? Rich says that Mike can take his computer to a nearby Microsoft store and they'll do a free diagnostic to see what's going on. It sounds though like it could be some sort of virus or malware. Worst case, he can back up the data, format the hard drive, and start over with a clean install.

Is Fingerprint Unlock Going Away?

Braille Institute's Best in Tech LA conference

Episode 1642

Julian from LA, CA

Julian is blind and relies on touch ID on his iPhone a lot. But he's worried that the fingerprint ID is being replaced and will no longer be available in mobile phones. Rich says he's heard rumors that Apple may be bringing it back in the next iPhone in 2020, so stay tuned. Meanwhile, check out IOS13's new VOICE CONTROL feature.

Also, check out the Braille Institute's Best in Tech LA conference, coming Sat, Nov 16 at the 

Why can't I boot up my computer?

Windows 7 (Upgrade to Windows 10 soon!)

Episode 1641

Gloria from North Hollywood, CA

Gloria's Windows 7 computer "went out" recently. It seems to be stuck in a boot loop. Rich says a software update may have broken your computer. Rich suggests going into safe mode and see if it will boot up. Use the F8 key when it's booting up. If it does, then that indicates a corrupted driver. Maybe a video driver. You can also bring your computer into a nearby Microsoft Store and they will run diagnostics to see what's going on. But with Windows 7 reaching End of Life in January, it's time to think about getting Windows 10. Rich also recommends looking at a Google Chromebook.

Can I get a keyboard for my iPhone?

iPhone 11 Pro

Episode 1641

Scott from Simi Valley, CA

Scott's company is shifting to using the iPhone from laptops and needs a keyboard for it. Rich says any Bluetooth keyboard will work, and he recommends the Logitech K480 ($50) or the Logitech Keys to Go. Is there a wired option? Rich says it's possible that you could get a wired to Bluetooth adapter. But if your company locks down the Bluetooth, you may be out of luck.

Why can't my wireless printer connect?

Epson Printer

Episode 1641

Bob from Tijuana, Mexico

Bob recently moved south to Tijuana, Mexico, and now his wireless printer won't connect. He's using the same equipment except for his new WiFi router. But still, no luck. Rich says that Bob will need to reset the printer to factory settings and then reset it up with his network to get the new settings. The printer is looking for an address that doesn't exist anymore. So remove the printer and then reboot and add the printer again.

Sam Abuelsamid ... Over the Air

Sam Abuelsamid

Episode 1641

Sam joins Rich to talk about how modern cars are connected, and as such, users can get over the air updates, much like their cell phones. Ford's next-gen infotainment system, called Ford Sync 4, will have some interesting new features including over the air software updates. Tesla was the first to do it in the Model S in 2012, and Tesla owners love it. Sam says that manufacturers are also going to ethernet connected systems since today's cars have multiple computers in them. But Rich worries that updates could break your car, or you may have to pay for updates if you want new features.