www.MrModem.com
Save Data With Proper Windows Shut Down
Q. What is the reason for exiting out of programs before shutting down my
computer? What happens if I don’t?
A. Unless you enjoy living on the digital edge, exiting out of programs permits
each program to shut down in a specifically designated manner, which includes
saving your data and tidying up before closing.
For example, many programs create temporary files while being used. These files
are deleted during the course of the program’s shut-down process. Some programs
that contain a “Deleted Items” or “Trash” folder will empty these folders upon
closing, as well.
If you fail to close programs before shutting down your PC, it may, under
certain circumstances, result in the loss of data, so it’s always best to close
programs first.
For the most part, Windows will automatically close open programs as part of the
overall shut-down process. If Windows isn’t shut down properly—for example, if
you press the power button on your computer or (gasp!) yank the plug out of the
wall—the next time you start your computer, it will run through a series of
additional tests to verify the integrity of your data, as well as take a look
around to be sure everything is functioning properly.
All things considered, it’s best to shut down your system as Mr. Gates requests,
via Start > Turn Off Computer. It only takes a couple of seconds, so better safe
than sorry.
Q. Is there any maximum length for an email address?
A. A username (the first part of an address, before the @ sign) can be up to 64
characters, which is much less than the domain part, which can be 255
characters. That means the total maximum email address length can be a
staggering 320 characters. (Why characters would be staggering is unknown.)
A 320-character email address would (320) be unbelievably annoying to anybody
who has to manually type the address. To understand just how lengthy that would
be, this question and answer, up to the parenthetical (320) in the previous
sentence, is 320 characters.
Realistically, any email address that long is going to continually run into
problems with mail servers and email programs. Even the Microsoft Access
database only permits a maximum of 50 characters for an email field.
When it comes to Internet protocols, there is always a gap between what is
permitted and what is supported. Shorter email addresses are desirable for a
number of reasons, not the least of which is that they’re easier to remember and
use on a daily basis.
Q. How do I show more than one window when viewing Web sites?
A. The specific steps for opening additional windows to view multiple Web sites
or pages depends on your browser, but generally, CTRL + N will open a new
browser Window. When the new window opens, type in or paste a Web site address
and press Enter to navigate to another Web page. You can continue to press CTRL
+ N to open as many windows as you wish.
If you’re using Internet Explorer 7, Opera or the Firefox browser, press CTRL +
T to open new tabs, within which you can navigate to additional sites.
Mr. Modem’s DME (Don’t Miss ‘Em) Sites of the Month
Analytical Problems and Puzzles
The first thing you’ll have to do upon entering this site is choose your
challenge: Lateral Thinking or Logic Problems. I was stumped right there. Next,
select a level of difficulty ranging from Very Easy to Very Difficult. These are
excellent exercises for the brain, though my few remaining neurons didn't find
the very easy ones to be particularly easy. Humbling? Yes; Easy? No. Here’s an
example of a “very easy” question: “How could a baby fall out of a twenty-story
building onto the ground and live?” Hint: You’ll find the answer in the Lateral
Thinking section.
www.folj.com
Hard-to-Find 800 Numbers
If you have ever tried to find an 800 number for a product, service or company,
you know the meaning of frustration. This site provides a comprehensive and
convenient reference for that purpose. Interestingly enough, the most frequently
sought 800 numbers, are for Amazon, eBay, PayPal, Yahoo, and Microsoft. (I said
it was interesting, not life-altering.)
www.hardtofind800numbers.com
Plot-O-Matic
Have you every watched a movie and thought to yourself, "I can write a better
movie than this piece of predictable fluff"? Well, you probably can. And it's
easier than you might think. Just select the characters and plot elements you
want to include in your movie, then click the “Lights! Camera! Action!”
button.
http://tinyurl.com/6n42xd
Mr. Modem’s weekly newsletter delivers helpful computer tips, great Web sites
and his personal answers to your questions! Trial offer: Subscribe online using
Promo Code MODEM and receive one free month with your six-month subscription (28
issues!) To view a sample issue or subscribe, visit
www.MrModem.com.