30+ Days of Christmas, #27 Backup!

Thanksgiving 2013 is in the rearview mirror, Black Friday is nearly past, Hanukkah is in full swing, and Christmas is getting closer every day.    Welcome back to our gift idea countdown.


We've looked at some household and travelling ideas so far.  Today, we're going to go back to the computer.   Today, we're going to look at backing up your information, and a couple of suggestions for you.


It's good to have a backup of your important files.   You never know when your primary drive may fail, or someone accidentally erases something important - or even if someone maliciously damages your computer.   Not every repair center is able to save your info.  It's best to keep a backup copy of the things you really don't want to - or can't replace.   

For some this could be as easy as keeping a CD or DVD (or a few) with your important pictures and documents.  For others multiple discs or flash drives are needed.  For others, an external hard drive is needed for the volume of data to be stored.  

As technology has improved, we've seen the size of hard drives increase.  Seagate has a 4TB drive available on the market currently.   They have these in both internal and external styles.   Seagate also makes smaller drives.  There are many possibilities depending on your needs.

The 4TB is currently retailing for about $160, is available off the shelf in several major retailers - as well as online.   It has the capability for storing the greatest amount of data on the market presently.    This is very useful for those with media collections to back up.   This is also useful for people who use these for things like video editing, which may comprise very large files.   

Economical Value:
What is the value?   For the price, it offers a good value.   At $40/TB, approximately, it's a good value.   The 4TB may be excessive, in some opinions, or it could be the starting size for others.  


My final verdict on this, is that it's a good value for the price.   There are smaller drives available, and other maufacturers.   I've personally had the best luck with Seagate products, but I'm not going to knock the others completely.   If you have any questions on picking out the right drive for your needs - or need help with a data backup - don't hesitate to contact us for a hand!

Check back tomorrow, as we'll have another holiday gift idea for you to check out!

30+ Days of Christmas - #28 - CAN you?

Happy Belated Thanksgiving, and Happy (now Second Day of) Hanukkah.


Between the hustle of yesterday, and some type of hiccup in posting yesterday's post, it came up empty.    So, let's try this again.

We recently looked at the Kitchenaid stand mixer, then went out on the road with GPS devices.   We'll now go back into the kitchen for a storage idea.

For me, this began after making some Turkey soup following Thanksgiving, and Christmas.   Leftovers froze nicely enough, but take up a lot of freezer space.   A friend recommended canning.   I looked it up, and found the Presto 16 Qt Pressure Canner.  From the first day I had this, I was successful in canning my first batch of soup on my first attempt.  

"Canning", I had found was a slight misnomer, as I was using glass jars, rather than metal cans.   I also learned some things in the process.   There are two primary forms of home canning - hot water bath or pressure.  Both can be accomplished with the Presto canner.   The type of canning depends on the food wished to be preserved.  It's important to use mason jars designed for the task, as well.  Standard store-bought jelly or sauce jars will shatter under the pressure.    Jars can be purchased from about $1 a piece or $5/12 pack and up depending on size and store.  In addition to the jars, you will need rings and lids.  Metal lids can be purchased for a couple bucks /box and up.   Unless specified, like Tattler Reusable Lids, the lids are one-use only.     Reusing a lid may not get the right seal, allowing canned food to spoil.   It's also handy to have a jar funnel and jar lifter for moving hot jars from the canner to the side to cool off.  Ball makes a set that includes jar funnel, jar lifter, magnetic lid lifter and bubble remover for between $5-10 at several retail stores.

What can I do with this?
There are many uses for this - or other pressure canners.     I had started with soups, but have used it for other things as well.   I've canned taco meat, fajita mix, stews, soups, jams, sauces, and more.    This cuts down on freezer space, and future prep time for some foods.  

Economical Value?
The initial cost of the canner, for me was about $70, at a retailer nearby.   While some store4s like Target and Best Buy sell them online, Walmart appears to carry them in stock on the retail level.   In addition to the canner, you'll need jars and lids.   The jars will come with rings and lids, initially, so lids will only be a necessity on your second batch.   Initial setup may run about $100, or so, depending on how many jars you pick up.   This can "pay for itself" though in waste reduction, and  cutting down of grocery bills.   For instance, using the carcass from a turkey, the broth and meat, plus some vegetables can easily make, perhaps two gallons of turkey soup.   This is 16 pint jars.   If you compare this to the cost of 16 cans of Chunky or Progresso soup, this could be quite a savings down the line.   This also allows you to buy and cook in bulk, and then re-use as needed.   

Personally, I think it's a great investment, if you can use it.   I've made some pretty good use of this over the past few years.   For the craft-minded, the jars open up their own gift-giving possibilities as well (such as putting all fo the dry ingredients for a batch of cookies and tying a wooden spoon and recipe card to the lid).  

Thanks for reading this, and I hope it gave you some food for thought.   I will repost later on today with the next idea!\

Black Friday 2013

Black Friday 2013 Specials

Happy Thanksgiving, and for those observing, Happy Hanukkah! Whether you're celebrating, shopping, working, or whatnot, we hope you enjoy your day. This year, we bring you our no-hassle Black Friday Specials.

No hassle? That's right. Many places may have you waiting in line from the morning for a chance at a laptop or TV deal – and those sell out fast. For our specials, there is no need to wait in line. In fact, to get the deal, you don't even need to have the job done on Friday. You just need to put in a call or email during the promotional window. That means that anytime between the time you read this, and 11:59 Friday 11/29 or Sunday 12/1, you get the promotional pricing. Project completion can be on your timeline. On to the specials!

He's making a list, checking it twice:

Would you like printed address labels for your Christmas or holiday cards? We can do that for you. Your address book will be printed in your choice of font and alignment. Turn around time from receipt to return may be as soon as one day, depending on orders.

Cost: $30

Order by 11:59 Central Time 12/1/2013

Naughty or Nice:

Have you had any difficulty with your computer? Think it might be running slowly, or may have some problems or viruses? We'll run your drive through a diagnostic to make sure it is free of viruses, spyware, malware, and other unpleasantries. In addition, we'll look at your computer settings to see how to make it more efficient (faster). Don't have an anti-virus? We can help out with suggestions. Turn around time starts at about one afternoon, and is handled in the order received.

Base cost $30, software and installation may be extra.

Order by 11:59PM Central Time 12/1/2013

Santa Claus is coming to town:

Would you like to upgrade something on your computer? Contact today via email or telephone, and receive 10% off the standard installation price for hardware or software. This may be combined with other promotional offers, and can be scheduled on your timetable.

Cost – Hardware varies by type, software base install price is $20 / program

Order by 11:59 PM Central Time 11/29/2013

Just like the ones I knew before:

Do you have old home movies that you'd like to hear again? Do you have old records that you haven't been able to play for some time? This is for you! This special will give you 10% off of a VHS to DVD or LP to CD transfer. VHS or LP to digital media is also available. Just reply by Sunday night to take advantage of this special. Turn around time depends on size of order, and is handled in the order received.

Cost – Base price $10/2 hour VHS, or $10/LP

Order by 11:59PM Central Time 12/1/2013

Don't forget the cookies for Santa:

Beside that tip, don't forget that backing up your data can be a lifesaver. We can do this for you. Whether you want to combine a data backup with a clean format of your computer, or just to keep a copy of your important files, we can help you!

Cost - $50, plus external media (flash drive, DVD, external hard drive, etc)

Order by 11:59 PM 12/1/2013

Miscellaneous:

Remember, we also do custom computer builds, network setup and maintenance, PC repair, software installation, computer configuration, instruction, and much more!

Email sales@skylance.us

Phone (847) 754-6283

Free Tech Tip:While it's still technically autumn, winter weather is coming upon us, and winter is closing in. With that come cool temperatures and low humidity. This is the perfect climate for static shocks. Your equipment doesn't like static electricity, and can be damaged by it. Protect your equipment by grounding yourself before touching your equipment – especially any internal components. Touch something metal before your PC or its components.

30+ Days of Christmas #29 - On The Road Again

Welcome back!

Yesterday we spent some time in the kitchen with a gift idea to make holiday baking a little more manageable.  Today, we're going out on the road, so to speak.    For those thinking I was plugging the latest album from Willie Nelson - sorry to disappoint.  

Today, the day before Thanksgiving, is traditionally one of the busiest travel days of the year.    Travel-wise, we're going to look at the road rather than public or commercial transit.    Today, we'll look at a device that has helped some, came around too late for others, and despite technological advances can still bewilder some folks.  Today we're talking about the GPS.

What is it and how does it work?
GPS, or Global Positioning System, is not that new.   They have been improving over the years in cost and accuracy.   These devices connect to a series of satellites orbiting the Earth.   When they have enough information from the satellites, they can tell you your location, with accuracy depending on the device.    In addition to the satellites overhead, they rely on preprogrammed or downloaded maps to give more accurate detail on where you are - or how to get to the next place.

Where is it?
Today, there are several GPS device manufacturers, such as Rand McNally, TomTom, and Garmin.  In addition most of the latest "smart phones" have included (and additional) GPS apps available from repositories like the iTunes Store or Google Play Market.  

But I have it on my phone:
It may seem redundant, but sometimes it's worthwhile to have a separate device.  Why?  Sometimes there are problems with cell towers, or a phone's battery, or someone calling through at the wrong time, or a service interruption, or....    A standalone model frees up the phone for use.   There's also the pesky issue that not everyone has the latest in smart phones.   Typically the GPS will plug into the cigarette lighter in the car, drawing power to run and charge.


Economic Value:
This will depend on the unit purchased.   Some like this from Rand McNally with built-in wi-fi come at a steeper price, but includes features that are geared toward RV users.  Some of the Garmin and Tom Tom models can easily be purchased for under $100.   As a gift item, this can be especially useful for someone prone to getting lost, or who takes a lot of road trips.   The scenic route may be nice, but with the price of gas, one of these may "pay for itself" in a couple of trips made - without getting lost!


Personally, there is a GPS app on my phone.  It works OK, from what I've seen, sometimes.   I've encountered problems with it in the recent past - even after updates.   We have a stand-alone unit, as well.   So far, it's performed well.   I prefer to have that around, though, as I'd rather not tie up the phone or its battery.  

30+ Days of Christmas #30 The Kitchenaid Mixer

Welcome back!

Today, I'm changing technological directions a bit.   Yesterday we looked at the office (or wherever you want) with a fun little computer accessory.   Today, we're going to move into the kitchen.   While Christmas is the biggest upcoming holiday, it's not the only one.  We also have Thanksgiving and Hanukkah coming up very quickly.  But, you don't need a holiday - or to celebrate one - to make use of this one.

Today I'm going to highlight the Kitchenaid Stand Mixer.   We'll take a look at what it is, where you can get it, and what you can do with it.

Kitchenaid has a strong reputation for making high quality appliances.   Today's focus is on their Stand Mixer.   I wasn't so familiar with this until my sister bought one years ago.   At the time, I thought it was expensive (they can be), and wondered "What's so special about a mixer....?".

I'll say that first of all, while price does not always equate to quality, Kitchenaid has maintained a strong reputation for high quality products, and they tend to live up to - and stand behind - that reputation.   My sister has used these (she's had a few over the years) for her business.   It can be set to run, allowing one to carry on other tasks, rather than standing over a bowl stirring with a spoon or a hand mixer.    There are many attachments that work with this mixer, allowing for countless possibilities.  Plus, these have a good longevity.      We received one as a gift a couple years ago, and it has performed flawlessly.   In fact, tomorrow it's coming out to make Pumpkin Cake Rolls for Thanksgiving, and will be used for making a bunch of the Christmas Cookies (that I will not admit to sneaking when no one is looking).

Where can you get one?
Well, you can order one directly from the site, such as this one.   They are also available from such local retailers as Kohls, Walmart, Target, Best Buy and more.  There are several models, available at different prices.

Economical Value:
The "entry level" model runs about $199.99.  This may seem expensive, and may be outside of some budgets.  There are alternatives - similar products from other manufacturers.   These may very well be worth your consideration.   As I said earlier, price is not always an indication of quality, though here the price combined with the brand reputation goes pretty far.   Some of the other brands may or may not perform the same, or have the same expandability or accessory options.  


The Kitchenaid mixer, from what I've watched, heard, and tasted over the years is both a good investment and a good gift idea for someone who would get the use out of it.    It's the kind of appliance that can handle a lot of use, and is useful year-round - not just to make occasional goodies during the holidays.    I hope you enjoyed this look at today's idea.  Come back tomorrow, as we'll be hittin' the road!

30+ Days of Christmas (2013 Edition)

Hello Visitors,

Thanks for stopping by.  Last year, I got the idea to use this space to share some creative gift ideas, leading up to Christmas.   I thought I would do similar this year.    I'm staying away from specific things like "Lord of the Rings Collectors Edition Blu-Ray Set", "Samsung 4K 50" HDTV", and the like.   There will be a span of "buying guides" upcoming, though, to cover a spectrum of products in some classes.

Some things seemed fairly straight-forward to me.  Music and movies, for instance, make for great gifts and stocking stuffers, although everyone has their own individual tastes.  With Black Friday coming up, most of the major retailers will have unbelievable specials on new releases and classics alike.  

Over the course of the next month, I'll be showing an assortment of gift ideas that look to be fun, unusual, and affordable.  I will also be giving pitches for some small businesses.  

Here's a bit of a teaser for what you'll see coming up:

The Thunder Rocket Launcher by Dream Cheeky:

The Thunder Rocket Launcher has been a fun computer accessory for several years.   There are many uses for it.... You can shoot your family from across the living room, or break up the monotony in the office by firing a few shots into the neighbor's cubical.  What you do with this product is your own business.   I am not responsible for your actions, or the consequences thereof.   So, consider spankings, groundings, noogies, firings, and retaliatory strikes before engaging the Thunder Rocket Launcher.   For those of you with iProducts, there is also an iThunder Rocket Launcher, that works with the popular iPads, iPods, & iPhones.

At $34.99 & $59.99, respectively from Dream Cheeky, it's not exactly a "cheap" gift idea, but the fun factor could make this worth the investment.   When buying this, it's probably a good idea to stock up on ammo.   They have replacement rockets for the Thunder and iThunder.   This will help for rapid reloading - or if someone tries to sabotage you to get an advantage.

Dream Cheeky also has a lot of other fun and entertaining gift ideas to check out.

Thanks for stopping by, and I'll see you tomorrow.