Laptop or desktop computers and any components within.
Hardware
Apple Event Coming June 7th
Episode 1800
Another Apple event is coming June 7th, and that means as of now, it's a terrible time to buy a new Apple product. Leo advises that if you're in the market for an Apple device, to WAIT until you find out what's being announced.
Why Can't I Use My Mouse With My Mac?
Episode 1799
Andrew fromAndrew discovered that Echo has a whisper mode, which is very peaceful at night. Leo says that they added that feature about a year ago. Andrew would also like a dark mode so that Echo is easier to use at night. Andrew also has a Logitech MX Master 3 mouse, but he can't find a driver for it with his older Mac. Leo says that there's both a Windows and a Mac model, so Andrew may have gotten a Windows version, and the driver is expecting the Mac version. Check out the Steer Mouse Utility from PlentyCom.
Why Is My Computer so Slow?
Episode 1799
Resa fromResa is having issues with his computer dragging. Something is running that is making the computer slow down to a crawl. Leo says it could be an update or some sort of malware. Maybe something recently installed. Check out the task manager. There's an app called Sysinternals Process Explorer that can help. Or, it could be a failing hard drive that's causing problems being read.
What Linux Should I Put On an HP Stream Laptop?
Episode 1799
Paul fromPaul has an HP Stream, and he can't update Windows 10. Leo says that's because there's no real storage on it, with a 32GB hard drive. They want to compete with Chromebooks, but people can't do anything with them. As such, you can't really update them. You could install Linux on it. Leo recommends Linux MINT; it uses Ubuntu. There's also PopOS by System76 and Manjaro.
Dr.Mom: On the Sidewalk
Episode 1799
Doctor Mom calls in to warn that Amazon has turned on their Echo Sidewalk feature by default, and if users want to opt-out of the network, they have to go into the app settings and turn it off. Leo says that some people may feel it's an invasion of privacy, but it's really just a local network, and it doesn't carry any personal information; it just borrows some WiFi from you.
Is There a Browser for the Apple Watch?
Episode 1799
G. Scott fromG. Scott recently bought his wife a new Apple Watch. It can do just about anything, but it has no browser. Leo says that's what the iPhone is for! You really wouldn't want to browse with that tiny watch screen. And even if it did, it would be limited without the iPhone attached to it. Don't think of it as a separate computer; it's more of a companion.
What Laptop Should I Buy After My Retirement?
Episode 1799
Suzanne fromSuzanne is about to retire, and she needs a new computer to replace her school-issued laptop. Leo says there's an infinite number of choices in the Windows PC world, but there are also trade-offs, depending on what you plan on using it for. Suzanne wants a 17" laptop. Leo says if you get a 17" laptop, its battery life will be impacted greatly. Plus, there are fewer 17" models out there. Look at HP, Dell, and Lenovo. Leo says that the Lenovo P17 Mobile Workstation is a good option. And it's on sale. Look for coupon codes too, which can cut the price tag in half.
Sam Abuelsamid: Picked up
Episode 1799
This week, Ford announced their new F150 Lightning, an electric version of their iconic pickup design. Sam says that the F150L is aimed directly at the commercial market, and it isn't strictly a lifestyle consumer-oriented truck. One of the cool benefits is the "Frunk," a 14 sq foot trunk where the engine normally goes, which can carry up to 400 lbs. The frunk also has 4 120v outlets for its pro power electric system. Great for working and building on location, where you don't have access to electricity. It also has a crew cab, dual motors, and four-wheel drive.
How Can I Connect My Printer to My Network?
Episode 1798
Kevin fromKevin got some new equipment from his ISP and he can't seem to use his HP printer with it. Leo says that all of today's printers are WiFi enabled and Kevin will need to input the network information and password using the printer interface. If it can scan for the network, that would be easier. Input the password and he should be able to see it online after adding the printer in Windows. Leo also recommends going to HP's website to download the latest drivers.
The Giz Wiz and the Cheap Webcam
Episode 1798
This week's gadget from Dickie D is a cheap 2K webcam from China. Said to be a true 2K - 2560 X 1440, 30Fps per second obviously should be better than 1080P. These inexpensive webcams all seem to have wide-angle lenses; one mentions 105 & another 110 degrees. Note that they are fixed non-zoom lenses. But wait, there's more! The two webcams I bought came with a free privacy cover & tripod!