Airplanes, lightning, & the wild world of Static Electricity ScottiesTech.Info 2023-05-23 | Last time you were on an airplane, did you notice those little "antennas" on the backs of the wings? Turns out they're not antennas at all! And that's where it gets interesting. Join me for a look at the wild (and mysterious) world of static electricity!- A Better Faraday Box video: youtube.com/watch?v=NguyYHPjwnI- Cling film article on ScienceFocus: sciencefocus.com/science/why-does-clingfilm-clingMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
Convert files to the format you need in 3 clicks ScottiesTech.Info 2023-05-02 | You know the drill: You've got an image, audio, video, or document file. Either you can't open it, or you need to convert it to a different format to send to someone else. You could use complicated software, but why not do it in just a few easy clicks? With File Converter, you can convert video files, turn video into audio files, change Word docs into PDFs, and a whole lot more. And it's FREE!file-converter.orgMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
The Secret of electric cars, mowers, and power tools ScottiesTech.Info 2023-04-04 | Everything these days is powered by batteries: power tools, mowers, cars, etc. But why does this even work? A quick look at the power provided by lithium-based batteries should make even armchair techies cringe! Something doesn't add up... So, what's the secret?
This common electric motor is SUPER easy to fix ScottiesTech.Info 2023-03-14 | The name "shaded pole motor" might sound scary, but these things are REALLY simple inside. So simple that if you have one, you can probably fix it yourself in about 10 minutes with a few simple tools. DIY, save some bucks, and Bob's your uncle. When they're used, how they work, and how to fix 'em good... Join me for a look at this common motor type!Tools in the vid (affiliate links):- BOSCH GSR12V-300FCB22 12V Max EC Brushless Flexiclick 5-In-1 Drill/Driver: amzn.to/3l9N3HD- BOSCH GBA12V60 12V Max Lithium-Ion 6.0 Ah Battery: amzn.to/3ZXVzs8My other SuperSaver vids: youtube.com/watch?v=BxiSXoEdwXk&list=PLrTCa4nP8TlGe1G7Vq4u7urrStiDdEGLCMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
What happens if we ditch Fossil Fuels? ScottiesTech.Info 2023-02-07 | These days, it's all about the green, reduced carbon footprint. While that all sounds nice, what would actually happen if we just ditched fossil fuels - coal, oil, and gas - overnight? It turns out it's WAY more complicated than you might think...Links:- The Power Problem with Electric Vehicles: youtube.com/watch?v=_rK45FG73jIMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
Is your gizmo eating batteries? Try THIS! ScottiesTech.Info 2023-01-10 | A little while ago, my electronic lockbox started eating batteries. When I opened her up, I discovered the problem: condensation! Join me for a look at how you can save your own battery-powered devices from the scrap heap - and save some bucks in the process!Goodies (affiliate links):- Phoenix KS0032E Key Safe / Lockbox: amzn.to/3ipVlts- TOLEBLID 30 Keys Cabinet Lock Box: amzn.to/3XbTPKs- WEICON Acrylic Resin Insulating Spray 400 ml: amzn.to/3GxZl34- Techspray Conformal Coating: amzn.to/3GwtAHOMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
Do surge protectors really work? ScottiesTech.Info 2022-12-13 | With everything getting more expensive these days, you want to be sure your costly electronics stay protected. One of the most common ways is to plug them all into a surge protector. The question is: Do these things really work? The answer is, as usual: It's complicated! Join me for a look at 3 different types/levels of surge suppressors, how these gizmos really work, and how best to protect your techie goodies from unfortunate zaps.Goodies in the Vid (some affiliate links):- Whole House Surge Protection: youtube.com/watch?v=hO-R0phSXXM- EMP Video: youtube.com/watch?v=fFT3rj8wtU4- Dirty Electricity Video: youtube.com/watch?v=ecwetD2zsms- APC small surge protector (EU): amzn.to/3iYj1Fj- APC small surge protector (USA): amzn.to/3W9h4nK- Eaton 4-outlet surge protector (EU): amzn.to/3FN5fhw- Brennenstuhl Super Solid 5-outlet surge protector (EU): amzn.to/3FMSkMB- APC Back-UPS PRO BR650MI: amzn.to/3iOJK70- APC Back-UPS Essential BE650G2: amzn.to/3PmK9tAMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
20 Windows tricks to save time (and sanity) ScottiesTech.Info 2022-11-29 | Most people are NOT power users. We all still need to get stuff done. After many years of watching eyeballs widen when I do something on a Windows PC, my wife suggested it was time to make this video! Without further ado, these are 20 time-saving tips and tricks so that you can get the most out of your puter time - and maybe even save your sanity in the process!More techie tips: scottiestech.info
Printout color is off? Fix it fast! ScottiesTech.Info 2022-11-15 | When you need a color printout, it's nice when the colors on paper look the same as those on your screen. Most of the time, however, that's not the case. Fortunately, there's a quick cheat you can use to get MUCH better print colors - and it only takes a few seconds!Goodies in the vid (some affiliate links):- Video on calibrating your screen colors:Make any LCD computer screen high-endyoutube.com/watch?v=POoc3IS_Naw- Datacolor SpyderX Elite – Monitor Calibration: amzn.to/3UQpZtO- My favorite color inkjet: amzn.to/3Ghgq2JMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
Why phone SAR ratings are silly ScottiesTech.Info 2022-11-01 | The Specific Absorption Rate, or SAR, of a phone shows how much energy from radio frequency waves is absorbed by body parts - head, torso, whole body, etc. The idea is that phones can be certified as "safe", while also allowing some sort of comparison between different phones. In reality, the whole thing is a bit of a bad joke. Even the FCC admits SAR is a pretty useless rating! Join me for another fascinating look inside our modern "Wireless Wonderland"!- FCC SAR Database: fcc.gov/oet/ea/fccid- FCC Guide to SAR: fcc.gov/consumers/guides/specific-absorption-rate-sar-cell-phones-what-it-means-youMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
Hot to fix choppy sound in VLC ScottiesTech.Info 2022-10-18 | VLC media player is free, popular, and just awesome. It'll play just about any audio or video file you throw at it. For video quality, there's an easy fix for choppy vids in VLC. But what about audio? How do you fix choppy AUDIO in VLC media player? Believe it or not, the fix is even easier than with choppy video...- How to fix choppy video in VLC: youtube.com/watch?v=PIIE9oO458o- Get VLC: videolan.org- Pleasantville (Copyright 1998 by New Line Cinema): amzn.to/3CXCzB3 (affiliate link)- Cletus Hawaiian Shirt - BLUE: scotties-techinfo.creator-spring.com/listing/cletus-hawaiian-shirt-blue?product=823- Cletus Hawaiian Shirt - SUN: scotties-techinfo.creator-spring.com/listing/cletus-hawaiian-shirt-sun?product=823- Cletus Hawaiian Shirt - DUSK: scotties-techinfo.creator-spring.com/listing/cletus-hawaiian-shirt-dusk?product=823More techie tips: scottiestech.info
When NOT to use Dirty Electricity filters! ScottiesTech.Info 2022-09-20 | Dirty Electricity is when all our wondrous gizmos generate noise that couples to the human body from the electrical wiring in our homes, schools, places of work, and so on. Fortunately, there are simple filters you can get that reduce the dangers from this type of noise. UNfortunately, you need to be careful using these filters if you have a backup generator! Join me for a look at one of the pitfalls of D.E. filters.Links from the vid:- Dirty Electricity: What it is and how to fix ityoutube.com/watch?v=ecwetD2zsms- Make your own Dirty Electricity Filters!youtube.com/watch?v=0bimHcxTDqg- EEK #4: What the heck is Power Factor?youtube.com/watch?v=9fg96FcDSw4More techie tips: scottiestech.info
Why your tech is giving you headaches ScottiesTech.Info 2022-09-06 | Who doesn't love technology? Unfortunately, working and playing with our toys often results in bad, chronic headaches that just won't seem to go away. The good news is that by correcting your posture and paying more attention to your body, you CAN end the headaches. While the exact mechanism at work here it still a bit of a mystery to me, honestly: Who cares?! My headaches are gone!Goodies from the Vid (some affiliate links):- Healing Back Pain: The Mind-Body Connectionamzn.to/3BiuTbG- Anda Seat Kaiser 3 Series desk chairandaseat.com/products/andaseat-2022-new-kaiser-3-series-premium-gaming-chair?variant=40547305193531- E.T. (copyright 1982 by Universal Studios)amzn.to/3Bh7AiF- E.T. in Blue Flannel Robeamzn.to/3ATrmiUMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
Windows STILL wont update? Do THIS! ScottiesTech.Info 2022-08-23 | These days, updating Windows is like playing Russian Roulette. Microsoft keeps breaking things, and I have to continually figure out how to fix them. I recently had ANOTHER problem with Windows Update. After trying everything, this is the solution that finally worked for me! Don't worry: they'll break it again soon enough!More techie tips: scottiestech.info
Android vs iOS: Which is better for privacy? ScottiesTech.Info 2022-08-09 | Ah, the eternal battle: iOS or Android? These days, there's a big war going on where both sides are trying to prove that their mobile OS is the safest and most privacy-friendly. So, which is it? Join me for a deep dive into the wonderful world of smartphones...0:00 - Intro10:06 - How to turn an iPad OFF-OFF11:13 - What LEVEL of Privacy?12:52 - Android17:21 - iOS26:12 - Apple Mail vs GmailLinks to stuff (some affiliate links):- Oxford study: "Are iPhones Really Better for Privacy?" - arxiv.org/pdf/2109.13722.pdf- iPad Air 5th Gen: amzn.to/3bJvs4v- Logitech Folio Touch iPad Case: amzn.to/3Qd2Zmv- Apple Pencil: amzn.to/3QbQ9oK- Apple iPhone SE 2022: apple.com/shop/buy-iphone/iphone-seMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
The biggest tech company youve never heard of ScottiesTech.Info 2022-07-19 | We all know about Apple, Google, Amazon, and so on. But there's one tech company that's utterly massive in its importance to the entire industry, and no one is talking about it. Well, to be precise, no one is talking about what MIGHT happen should the current global mayhem go one step too far. Join me as I take a look at TSMC: the biggest tech company you've never heard of!More techie tips: scottiestech.info
Is LaMDA sentient, or just clever programming? ScottiesTech.Info 2022-06-21 | In recent news, a guy at Google claimed that one of their AIs, LaMDA, had become sentient. Well, that's quite a claim! So, I decided to read the entire transcript of a chat with LaMDA and see what all the fuss is about...The whole transcript:cajundiscordian.medium.com/is-lamda-sentient-an-interview-ea64d916d917More techie tips: scottiestech.info
10 tips to speed up your PC ScottiesTech.Info 2022-05-17 | Who doesn't want a faster PC? Well, it's easier than you think. Most of the time, the way we use our puters is what slows them down. By making a few minor adjustments to how you work, you can get the most bang from your existing PC - without forking over bucks for a new one!Try: malwarebytes.comMore techie tips: scottiestech.infoFB: facebook.com/ScottiesTechInfo
How Big Tech Privacy actually works ScottiesTech.Info 2022-05-03 | A recent revelation from inside Facebook has called into question all these privacy laws we now have... Or more specifically, how companies are actually implementing (or not) these laws designed to protect our data. The truth, as usual, probably shouldn't surprise you: it's pretty much just smoke and mirrors!Vice article:vice.com/en/article/akvmke/facebook-doesnt-know-what-it-does-with-your-data-or-where-it-goesFB internal doc:documentcloud.org/documents/21716382-facebook-data-lineage-internal-documentMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
Quietest gaming keyboard in the entire universe! ScottiesTech.Info 2022-04-19 | Despite the prevalence of touch devices these days, chances are you still have an "old fashioned" computer with a keyboard. Many keyboards are very quiet and comfortable to type on, but they don't last very long. Enter the Gaming Keyboard! It's old school durability and reliability meets modern tech... Only trouble is, these things are SUPER noisy to type on. Or at least, they WERE super noisy. Behold the world's most silent gaming keyboard!Goodies in the vid (affiliate links):- SteelSeries Apex 7 Gaming Keyboard: amzn.to/3rAQeYZ- Glorious GMMK Modular Barebones Keyboard: amzn.to/3JUAE0u- Razer Doubleshot PBT Keycaps: amzn.to/3jXAL0x- Glorious Keyboard O-Ring Set: amzn.to/3KWTohf- Gazzew Boba U4 RGB switches (110 piece): fr.aliexpress.com/item/1005001809357064.html- C.K. Tools T3887 Ecotronic Side Cutters: amazon.com/Tools-T3887-Ecotronic-Side-Cutters/dp/B00W1ML6B2More techie tips: scottiestech.info
Windows 11 DOES have new features! Who knew? ScottiesTech.Info 2022-03-29 | If you have no idea why you might want Windows 11, you're not alone. Microsoft is terrible with the whole marketing thing. Nevertheless, I happened to discover by accident a handy new feature in Win 11 just the other day. How many more are hiding in the shadows just waiting to be found?- Make win 11 work on your puter: scottiestech.info/2022/02/22/how-to-make-your-pc-work-with-windows-11- Fix Windows Update: youtube.com/watch?v=bYWntRMKDfcMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
Foot Pedals: An input device you didnt know you needed ScottiesTech.Info 2022-03-15 | Everyone knows about keyboard and mice... But the foot pedal?! What the heck? As usual, it turns out that they're not so expensive and very easy to set up - if you use the right software. Speaking of software, it's exactly because of NCH's Pedable application that this thing is so incredibly useful. You can use your foot to do 3 different things - including in games! Foot pedals aren't just for translators and transcribers...Goodies in the vid (some affiliate links):- VEC Infinity 3 USB pedal: amzn.to/3MNJm3g- NCH Pedable application (FREE): https://nch.com.au/footpedal/index.html- All NCH software: https://www.nch.com.au/software/index.html- VLC Media Player (FREE): videolan.orgMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
The color printing nightmare is OVER! ScottiesTech.Info 2022-03-01 | Printing in color has been a total nightmare as long as I can remember. If it wasn't the initial cost, it was expensive replacement parts for a color laser printer. Then toner cartridge price went through the roof. And let's forget the dreaded "laser line" problem that often happens even with brand new toner. Thankfully, there IS a solution: Business-Class Inkjets! While these may have been around for awhile, it's only recently that they seem to have taken their rightful place as the color printing solution of choice for the masses.Goodies in the video (affiliate links):- Brother MFC-J5945DW color inkjet multifunction printer:amzn.to/347FatO- Brother MFC-J5845DW color inkjet smaller version:amzn.to/3C5qKql- Canon GX6020 All-in-One Wireless Supertank Printer (24 ppm!!):amzn.to/3tenvci- Epson EcoTank ET-2760 (with slower 5ppm print speed):amzn.to/35nDZqxMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
Make it stick with Superglue Secrets! ScottiesTech.Info 2022-02-15 | Who doesn't love superglue?! Well, I suppose there are some people who glued their fingers together one time... Anyhow, superglue is still super-useful. There are just a few tricks you should keep in mind for best results. You can save a ton of money and even unstick your fingers in record time. So join me for the secrets of of my favorite adhesive!!Stuff in vid:- My article on superglue:scottiestech.info/2016/07/10/superglue-everything-you-need-to-know-and-some-things-you-dont- 20g bottle of superglue (affiliate link): amzn.to/3GPXchi- Acetone: Visit your local hardware store - chemical aisle!More techie tips: scottiestech.info
The Best way to Propose (for a Techie) ScottiesTech.Info 2022-02-01 | This time, for video #151, I'm gonna do something a bit different. A few weeks ago, I decided to propose to my girlfriend. Naturally, I had to include tech in my proposal because, well, I'm a nerd. Well, you'll just have to watch to find out what happened...Goodies in the vid:- Dark Welder 2.0 video: youtube.com/watch?v=pyQ-gbYM8Og- Language with Chu: youtube.com/c/JulianaBarembuemMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
Whats up with 5G and airplanes?! ScottiesTech.Info 2022-01-18 | As if all the controversy about 5G and health isn't bad enough, now there's a new saga: 5G vs Airplanes! Specifically, mid-band 5G vs radar altimeters. So, what's the deal? It turns out it's utter insanity. But then, I guess we shouldn't be surprised!More techie tips: scottiestech.info
How NOT to clean your screen ScottiesTech.Info 2021-12-21 | Who doesn't love a shiny, clean screen? Smudges and fingerprints are just seriously annoying. But what's the best way to clean the screen on your computer, smartphone, tablet, or TV? Well, there's one thing you do NOT want to do - as I discovered in a moment of temporary insanity. The rest depends on a variety of factors...Stuff mentioned in the vid (some affiliate links):- ViewSonic VP2458 24" 100% sRGB LCD monitor (amzn.to/3FikWL8)- Datacolor SpyderX Elite monitor calibrator (amzn.to/3EnzuIg)- My vid on getting perfect color: "Make any LCD computer screen high-end" - youtube.com/watch?v=POoc3IS_NawMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
Cloudless Windows backup thats RELIABLE and FREE ScottiesTech.Info 2021-12-07 | Everybody needs a backup, but not everybody wants all their data stored in the cloud. Until now, File History was good enough. Starting with Win 11, it's effectively crippled to push everyone to use OneDrive. Ug. So, what to do? I'll tell you what: Back up Windows like a Pro! The robocopy command and a handy script I wrote is all you need. And it only takes 5 minutes to set up!Links mentioned in the vid (some affiliate):- Article with details: scottiestech.info/2021/12/07/cloudless-windows-backup-thats-reliable-and-free- Batch script: scottiestech.info/download/robo_backup.bat- Samsung T7 1TB external SSD: amzn.to/3duoBZTMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
Windows Update is MISSING? Fix it for good! ScottiesTech.Info 2021-11-23 | So you've tried to fix Windows Update, but it just won't work. Even my earlier solution didn't work... Never fear! There is a way to essentially 'reinstall' Windows Update that should work. But first, there's one other step you should take to make sure this never happens again...Goodies from the vid:- Malwarebytes cybersecurity: malwarebytes.com- Command prompt goodness:dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthsfc /scannow- Registry entry to delete:HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\wuauserv- Registry import file:scottiestech.info/download/WindowsUpdateFix.reg- My video 'Windows won't update? Fix it fast!':youtube.com/watch?v=BPHnOM3Tnp0- My article 'How to fix Windows Update errors, including in Windows 10':scottiestech.info/2015/12/13/how-to-fix-windows-update-errors-including-in-windows-10- My video: Windows Updates broke your PC? NO PROBLEM!youtube.com/watch?v=-NqdDXlDIXUMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
Make your own Dirty Electricity Filters! ScottiesTech.Info 2021-11-09 | So you want to prevent Dirty Electricity, but you don't want to spend a fortune on filters? No problem! With a few tools and some parts, you can DIY your own DE filters that perform just as well as pre-made Greenwave or Stetzerizer filters. I made 14 additional filters and saved a TON of money. Just be aware that you should probably have some experience soldering and working with 120/240V AC equipment. Don't want to burn your house down! ;)Part List (some affiliate links):- 4.7uF 305V X2 EMI capacitors: aliexpress.com/item/1005002911470812.html- 10uF 305V X2 EMI capacitors: aliexpress.com/item/1005002911445999.html- 220pF ceramic 1kV capacitors: aliexpress.com/item/32213256790.html- 220k 2W 1% resistors: aliexpress.com/item/32958363818.html- Electricity Saving Box (UK plug WITH GROUND): aliexpress.com/item/32858486011.html- Universal to EU Plug Adapters: aliexpress.com/item/32838881793.html- Weather stripping: amzn.to/31L8uVv- Hot Glue Gun: amzn.to/3wnVUq8- Glue sticks: amzn.to/3kfUYzx- Dremel 8220 cordless: amzn.to/300M41B- Dremel EZ Lock cutting disc kit: amzn.to/3BUuzgzMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
How to fix an alternator and save big $$ ScottiesTech.Info 2021-10-26 | Raw materials, parts, even cardboard - everything's in short supply these days! So, what do you do when your alternator is dying and you can't even find a new one? Why, you repair it yourself! While it may seem like this is way beyond your ability, it turns out it's not so difficult. With a few tips and a bit of patience and persistence, you can DIY your alternator back into like-new working condition! Just be careful if you bench test it: There are several misconceptions out there about the voltage/current your alternator is supposed to output...Alternator Image: starteralternators.co.uk/alternatorworksMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
Dirty Electricity: What it is and how to fix it ScottiesTech.Info 2021-10-12 | While everyone is paying the most attention to wireless tech like 5G, dirty electricity is often completely overlooked. In short, all our wondrous gizmos generate noise that couples to the human body from the electrical wiring in our homes, schools, places of work, and so on. What effects does this dirty electricity have? Well, it ain't pretty. Fortunately, there are simple filters you can get that reduce the dangers from this type of noise. Join me for a look at DE and get clean power!Goodies from the vid:- Dirty Electricity book by Milham (affiliate link): amzn.to/3BBiTzR- Capacitive coupling: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capacitive_coupling- Displacement current: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Displacement_current- Stetzer Electric web site: stetzerelectric.com- Greenwave web site: greenwavefilters.comFluo tube pic: BaronAlaric - en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Fluorescent_tube_under_electric_line.jpgMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
What happened to RAVPower? Well, its nuts... ScottiesTech.Info 2021-09-28 | RAVPower was all the rage not so long ago. They make some of the BEST USB power bricks and USB chargers that have ever existed. Then one, day, POOF! They were gone. What the heck happened? Join me for a look at the glorious world of Amazonism... Amazocracy? Whatever!Stuff in the vid:- Video: FAST Power Bank: No more 2-day recharge times!youtube.com/watch?v=7c0ui6iB9a8- RAVPower Power Bank 26800mAh 3 Ports: aliexpress.com/item/1005003308081017.html- RAVPower 32000mAh Power Bank: aliexpress.com/item/1005003245658516.html- RAVPower USB C Power Bank 15000mAh: aliexpress.com/item/1005003244934301.html- RAVPower 65W USB C PD GaN Charger: aliexpress.com/item/1005003299205966.html- RAVPower 100W USB C PD GaN Charger: aliexpress.com/item/1005003304053363.html- Xiaomi Power Bank 3: aliexpress.com/item/4001296405703.htmlMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
mmWave Madness: No, youre not crazy! ScottiesTech.Info 2021-09-07 | Ah, 5G... It's a mixture of new technologies, the most "interesting" being mmWave, or millimeter wave. If you're wondering if a particular phone actually HAS mmWave, good luck figuring it out. Even worse, in most areas it's darn near impossible to find out what flavor of 5G is being used: Is it mmWave, or not?! Good luck with that one, too. And to top it all off, it doesn't really matter anyway because even official government bodies are really looking at 5G and EXISTING wireless tech, and starting to get worried...Links from the vid:- mi.com/global/mi-11/specs- en.wikipedia.org/wiki/5G_NR_frequency_bands- androidauthority.com/xiaomi-mi-11-review-1201093- phonedas.com/smartphone/samsung-galaxy-s21_68619- samsung.com/semiconductor/minisite/exynos/products/mobileprocessor/exynos-2100- ariase.com/mobile/carte-5g- https://www.europarl.europa.eu/RegData/etudes/STUD/2021/690012/EPRS_STU(2021)690012_EN.pdfMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
The Hidden Dangers of 5G & wireless tech ScottiesTech.Info 2021-08-31 | A friend recently bought a new 5G smartphone. She was worried about the '5G' part especially. Two problems: First, there is no 5G where we live, so I just turned it off. Second, the 5G Samsung phone only supports lower frequencies than our local 4G network - IOW, no millimeter wave! Of course, it's about more than just frequency. In reality, it's about way more than just the technologies involved. There is a hidden danger to worrying TOO MUCH about the effects of our wireless wonderland...Stuff mentioned in the vid:- 5G is just the tip of the iceberg: youtube.com/watch?v=h-qzqOhDc_0- No more WiFi: How to wire your house for Internet: youtube.com/watch?v=ZyVpunl8By8- Invisible Rainbow: A history of EMFs and health: youtu.be/e-l1gro7wFU- The Fourth Phase of Water: Beyond Solid, Liquid, and Vapor: amzn.to/3mNjJ8j (affiliate link)More techie tips: scottiestech.info
QUICK FIX: No more Snagit Mic Error! ScottiesTech.Info 2021-08-24 | Video captures are pretty easy with Snagit. There's only one problem: That dreaded 'No Mic' error! It's almost made Snagit infamous instead of famous. Solutions abound, but THIS one actually works. It'll cost you a few bucks, but the same trick works with other video and video capture software. Which probably means it's a Windows issue in the end, but whatever...Goodies in the vid (affiliate links):- Snagit: techsmith.com/snagit-features.html- USB audio adapters:- UGREEN USB external Sound Card (1 TRRS jack for both headphones + mic): amzn.to/3CaO2e5- UGREEN USB external Sound Card (2 TRS jacks: 1 for headphones, 1 for mic): amzn.to/3A5wgY1More techie tips or if you want to Hire Me to solve your techie problem:scottiestech.info
What do YOU want to see? ScottiesTech.Info 2021-08-17 | This one's pretty simple: I make videos, and you get to choose what the next one is about! Let me know in the comments below or via the Contact form on my web site scottiestech.info !!
Youre using your A/C WRONG! ScottiesTech.Info 2021-08-10 | Common wisdom dictates that you're supposed to use your air conditioning in a certain way. Let it warm up during the day or when you're not at home. If you're really hot, turn it way, WAY down and it'll magically cool faster. How you use your A/C depends on who you listen to... And on that front, you probably want to listen to the people who design, install, and maintain A/C. Because while scientific theories are great, practical realities back down here on Earth are better!More techie tips: scottiestech.info
How to easily make screen recordings ScottiesTech.Info 2021-08-03 | Taking screen captures is pretty easy. But what about VIDEO captures? It might seem like you need a PhD in computer science, but it turns out that recording a video of a single window or your desktop is VERY easy these days. Here are 3 easy ways to capture video from your puter, and the first one won't cost you a penny! I also include a fix for the very common and dreaded 'Snagit Mic Error' that seems to plague quite a few Snagit users.0:00 Intro0:40 Xbox Game Bar4:43 Xbox Game Bar is Missing?5:25 Snagit8:30 Fix Snagit Mic Error!!10:59 Aiseesoft Screen RecorderGoodies in the vid (affiliate links):- Snagit: techsmith.com/snagit-features.html- Aiseesoft Screen Recorder: aiseesoft.com/screen-recorder- USB audio adapters:- UGREEN USB external Sound Card (1 TRRS jack for both headphones + mic): amzn.to/3CaO2e5- UGREEN USB external Sound Card (2 TRS jacks: 1 for headphones, 1 for mic): amzn.to/3A5wgY1More techie tips or if you want to Hire Me to solve your techie problem:scottiestech.info
How to fix choppy video in VLC ScottiesTech.Info 2021-07-13 | VLC media player is free, popular, and just awesome. It'll play just about any audio or video file you throw at it. Beginning in version 3.0.0, it supports hardware acceleration so that it SHOULD play even hi-res vids smoothly. But quite often when you try to play a 4K (2160p) video, the playback stutters and is basically unwatchable. What gives?? Turns out there's a very simple fix that works 95% of the time! And it'll take you all of about 10 seconds to do it...Get VLC: videolan.orgMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
Is Chrome spying on you? ScottiesTech.Info 2021-07-06 | Chrome is a fantastic web browser - except when it eats all your CPU power and crashes your puter. What's going on here? I thought Chrome was lean, mean, and zippy? Well, it IS... But the Software Reporter Tool that it downloads and runs to scan your computer "for evil add-ons" may be up to more than just making sure Chrome runs well (which is hilarious, since it ends up crashing the puters of so many of us!). Well, whatever... How do you turn the dang thing OFF?! Now, it's easy! I also throw in a few other privacy-enhancing tips if you're using Chrome.More techie tips: scottiestech.info
Will Windows 11 run on your PC? YES!! ScottiesTech.Info 2021-06-29 | Microsoft can't seem to get Windows 10 right, and maybe now we know the reason: because they just announced Windows 11! Coming sometime around the end of this year, Windows 11 promises to be everything Win 10 is not. There's only one problem: Everyone is claiming (including MS) that you'll need a super-modern puter to run it. In this vid, I take a look at Windows 11 and its system requirements. I also review past Windows releases, and how each time, the same thing happened. In short, YES, your computer will run Windows 11 just fine! Nothing to see here...0:00 Intro1:14 Windows 11 Intro2:40 Android Apps3:50 System Requirements4:20 TPM 1.2 or 2.0?5:50 PC Health Check App6:50 So what is TPM?!8:25 History of Windows ‘Requirements’10:18 Enable TPM13:30 Enable UEFI + Secure Boot16:23 Do you actually WANT Windows 11?!Links mentioned in the vid:- Windows 11 Intro:microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-11- Compatibility requirements for Win 11:docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/compatibility/windows-11- TPM fun:docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/security/information-protection/tpm/tpm-recommendations- My guide on how to, "Convert your Windows 10 boot drive from MBR to GPT":scottiestech.info/2017/11/12/convert-your-windows-10-boot-drive-from-mbr-to-gptMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
The EASY way to use Material Design Icons ScottiesTech.Info 2021-06-22 | If you're a web developer, you've probably used Google's Material Design Icon font. It's a great way to include 1 small file and get gajillions of icons - instead of making 20 different pixel sizes of numerous icons, and then creating sprites and all that jazz. The trouble is that until now, there was no reference for PAST versions of the MD icon font. You're supposed to just load it from Google's servers and be happy. But what if you you don't need 1800+ icons at 102kB in file size? What if an older version of the MD icon font is just fine, you want to load the font file from your own servers or CDN, and you just want to know what icons are available in that older version? Now, you're all set! You can also use my Material Design Icon Viewer to see the differences between versions of the icon font, search for a certain icon, and even see the difference in font file sizes between versions. And then you can make a more intelligent decision as to what you really NEED in your application!Links mentioned in the vid:- Material Design Icons on Google Fonts: fonts.google.com/icons- Material Icons on github: github.com/google/material-design-icons- Scottie's Material Design Icon Viewer: scottiestech.info/material_icons- Code Example: scottiestech.info/2021/06/22/the-easy-way-to-use-material-design-iconsMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
Phishing Scams and how to protect yourself ScottiesTech.Info 2021-06-15 | Even if you don't know the term 'phishing scam', chances are you've already been targeted by many of them. A phishing scam is when someone uses a genuine-looking e-mail, login page, SMS, or whatever to fool you into giving up personal data - like logins, passwords, card and banking info, etc. They often involve some kind of 'hook' that makes you worried or scared. When that happens, you stop thinking and fall into the trap. But these scams are very easy to avoid with a bit of extra attention. I'll show an example of a phishing scam I received recently and then take it apart piece by piece so that next time, you'll know exactly what to look for to protect yourself.More techie tips: scottiestech.info
How to learn to code (or anything else) ScottiesTech.Info 2021-06-01 | For reasons unknown to me, other people are always asking me how to learn programming. Well, there's the traditional route: go to school, become a coder. Done! But as we all know, many of the best and most famous programmers were those who dropped out of school and were essentially self-taught. Are they onto something? Actually, yes, they are! Not only that, but most of the 'techniques' I talk about in this video are applicable to pretty much anything else you want to learn or do.Mentioned in the vid:- PikaJS: Think jQuery but smaller, lighter, and just as easy to use:scottiestech.info/2017/10/03/pikajs-think-jquery-but-smaller-lighter-and-just-as-easy-to-use- How to code smarter - now with 50% less irritation:scottiestech.info/2017/11/21/how-to-code-smarter-now-with-50-less-irritation- PikaJS on github: github.com/Scottie35/PikaJSMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
Are you wasting your internet speed? ScottiesTech.Info 2021-05-18 | Most people probably don't even notice the actual speed of their internet connection. If it 'goes fast', they're happy. What many folks don't realize is that they may be wasting a large chunk of their very high speed net connection. If you use even newer flavors of WiFi, chances are you aren't taking full advantage of the connection you're paying for! Heck, even with Ethernet, your download speeds may be lower than you think. So, how do you tell? Well, as always, it's complicated. But if you keep a few little details in mind, you can find out for yourself in just a few minutes... And then you can download at lightspeed to your heart's content!Goodies mentioned in the vid (affiliate links):- UGREEN Type A Ethernet Dongle: amzn.to/3uX9PCj- Anker Type C Ethernet Dongle: amzn.to/2RYDAnw- TP-Link TL-SGF105-M2 2.5 Gbps Ethernet Switch: amzn.to/3bzYSip- TRENDnet TEG-S350 2.5 Gbps Ethernet Switch: amzn.to/3eWKhj6- PCI-E 2.5 Gbps Ethernet adapter for Desktop: amzn.to/3op4RM9More techie tips: scottiestech.info
The BEST way to stay safe on the Internet ScottiesTech.Info 2021-05-11 | Ah, the internet! It's so incredibly useful, and at the same time you won't find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy. Well, technically, it's more useful than villain-y. Still, it's good to be careful! So what's the best way to stay safe when using the internet? Strong passwords? Antivirus? Browser add-ons? Privacy enhancers? VPNs?! That's all well and good, but there's one trick that will never let you down...Stuff mentioned in the vid:- malwarebytes.com- Fix stunnel “Bad magic at ssl.c” error / crash on Ubuntu (article):scottiestech.info/2020/06/23/fix-stunnel-bad-magic-at-ssl-c-error-crash-on-ubuntu- The Biggest threat to Privacy: Browser Fingerprints (video):youtube.com/watch?v=vDynjSbaCpUChapters:0:00 Intro0:43 Updates2:19 Antivirus4:49 Antimalware8:13 Firewall9:27 Private Browsing10:17 Security Add-ons11:17 VPNs15:13 THE BIG SECRET!17:51 What's your goal?19:26 A story of Nosy NeighborsMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
How to fix black thumbnail preview icons ScottiesTech.Info 2021-05-04 | This one is fun: One day, your thumbnail preview icons turn into black squares instead of showing a preview of the file's contents as usual. You may even find that the usual methods to fix the problem simply don't work. Fear not! With a few easy tricks, you can get your black icons displaying previews again... And you just might discover something new along the way!More techie tips: scottiestech.info
Taking screenshots is easier than you think ScottiesTech.Info 2021-04-27 | Every now and then, you need to make a snapshot of what's on your screen - or maybe what's in a single application window. Most people think you need some kind of special software to take screenshots, but the truth is that it's actually a whole lot easier - and cheaper! Windows 10 has five simple ways to take screenshots. That means you're literally a keystroke away from taking as many screen captures as you want!More techie tips: scottiestech.info
FLoC and the future of Internet Privacy ScottiesTech.Info 2021-04-20 | When it comes to privacy on the internet, the new word on the street is 'FLoC'. Led by Google, a group of businesses and advertisers is pushing a new standard that would have your browser identifying your particular group of interests (or 'cohort') by a unique ID number. This number will be sent to all sites you visit. VOILA! No more 3rd party cookies, and supposedly more privacy! Of course, there's the marketing mumbo jumbo and then there's the reality of the situation. So: What is FLoC? How does it work? And most importantly: Will it improve your privacy??Further info on FLoC:- Building a privacy-first future for web advertisinghttps://blog.google/products/ads-commerce/2021-01-privacy-sandbox/- Google Is Testing Its Controversial New Ad Targeting Tech in Millions of Browsers. Here’s What We Know.eff.org/deeplinks/2021/03/google-testing-its-controversial-new-ad-targeting-tech-millions-browsers-heres- Google’s FLoC Is a Terrible Ideaeff.org/deeplinks/2021/03/googles-floc-terrible-idea- Why Brave Disables FLoCbrave.com/why-brave-disables-flocMore techie tips: scottiestech.info
