Battery Backup

Battery backup: How many Joules do you need for a battery backup (Uninterrupted Power Supply – UPS). ANS: This is an emergency device to allow you to shut the computer down safely. The number of plug-ins is a factor to consider. You will need a 500 to 550 volt amp unit, which should be large enough except if you have cable service you will need a 650 VA because you will also need a cable adapter. Plug in the CPU and Monitor into the UPS and all other plugs into the surge protector.—SNUG OK

Installing Programs Made Easy

Ninite is a cool new service created by two programmers in San Francisco who believe that installing software shouldn’t require work. It’s simple to use and has a large selection of popular freeware and open source applications. Just pick the apps you want to install, download the Ninite installer, then walk away and do something fun while it does all the work for you. The service installs the software with default settings and says “no” to any extra crapware (like browser toolbars) the installers might try to sneak in. Ninite isn’t even installed on your system, you just use a stand alone executable to begin the install process. – Cyber News

Try this

What are the commonest words in the English language? Think you know them? Well why not try this brain teaser that asks you to name the 100 most common words–against the clock. http://www.sporcle.com/games/common_english_words.php    
I scored a measly 45%, how about you?–Kim Komando

Download free music

You need to be careful when searching for free music. Many sites offer music illegally. You don’t want to get caught up in that!
Besides, you shouldn’t download anything online unless you trust the source. You could be downloading a Trojan.
That’s why I recommend visiting Amazon’s download site. You’ll find hundreds of free songs in a variety of genres. You’ll discover some great new music!
The songs are MP3s. That means they should work on any MP3 player or computer.—Kim Komando

Electronics disposal

For outdated electronics, which can pose environmental threats, go to www.mygreenelectronics.org for advice. Enter your zip code to find out the locations of recycling centers near you.—State Farm

Debit card fee

Some debit cards charge a service fee every time you select “debit” at the register and enter a PIN. Look for cards without this charge, or choose the “credit” option and sign for your purchases instead.—State Farm

Jacob is number 1 again!

The most popular baby’s names for 2008 were Jacob (for the tenth year in a row) and Emma, according to the Social Security people. To see the other names in the top ten lists, visit http://www.ssa.gov/OACT/babynames/ where you can also investigate any name’s popularity all the way back to 1879. Don’t miss the video on the right from the king of rock and roll, it’s a hoot. Ain’t your government wunnerful?—Kim Komando

Traditional Medicine: Any Questions?

WebMD is a convenient location for medical information of all kinds. In particular the Drugs and Medications A-Z pages lets you search for a drug or a medical condition by name. The drug pages include warnings, side effects, precautions, interactions and overdose information. There is also a Pill Identifier that lets you identify a pill, tablet or capsule by shape, color etc.—David Henry

Improve Your Vocabulary

Improve your vocabulary at Free Rice, a game that presents you with a vocabulary word. You must select the correct synonym from the list of answers. You can also hear how the word sounds so you can get the pronunciation right. If you miss a word, the game shows you the correct synonym. The word will also be repeated later. It’s a great way to memorize new words! There’s more to this game than just building your vocabulary. For each correct answer, 10 grains of rice are donated to help end hunger. With a game this addictive, the rice soon piles up!—Kim Komando

Keep Your Software Up-to-Date

CNet has a useful service called Tech Tracker. When you sign up, Tech Tracker scans your computer applications to see which ones are up-to-date and which are out of date, meaning you haven’t got the latest version. It reminds you if the appl is free, or a free trial, or purchase. Alongside each is a convenient Download Now button.—CNet