Avoid setting your laptop down on soft surfaces such as the bed, couch or a pillow. Soft surfaces like this may block the laptop's air vents causing it to overheat and potentially damaging it. Keep the laptop on hard surfaces when using it and you'll prolong your laptop's life. … [Read more...] about Don’t overheat your laptop
Electronics & Computers
Turn your old computer into a server
When you can't prolong your PC's life any longer as your main computer, you can still use it in other capacities that will save you money. For example: turn your old computer into a server. This could save you as much as $120 (the approximate cost of a comparable … [Read more...] about Turn your old computer into a server
Buy a refurbished computer
Many manufacturers repair (or 'refurbish') used or slightly damaged computers so they can re-sell them. This allows you to buy a high quality computer at a substantially lower cost than a brand new model. Refurbished models usually even come with a manufacturer's warranty … [Read more...] about Buy a refurbished computer
Get free software
There are three basic types of free software: 1) Available online 2) Download-able to your computer 3) "Free to Try" (aka a trial offer that you'll need to pay for if you continue to use it) Free Online Software These days, you can get a lot of basic software free online. … [Read more...] about Get free software
Buy a flat panel instead of a CRT monitor
On average, a flat panel monitor uses 100 watts less than a CRT (cathode ray tube) monitor while it's awake and 25 watts less when in sleep mode. Although a flat panel monitor may cost a little more up-front, it'll end up saving you money in the long run since your electric bill … [Read more...] about Buy a flat panel instead of a CRT monitor