FYI
 Data Destruction It's Harder Than You Think

Whether you're a business owner or just keep electronic records about yourself and your family, chances are you could learn more about digital data destruction. In fact, now's a very good time, as the FTC just mandated "proper data destruction" of records such as names, addresses, and social security numbers if you collect them for any reason--credit reports, car sales, employment, or if you're a landlord. Also, it's just good to know that running over a hard disk with a car may not do the trick. Robert Vamosi of CNet.com explains.


 Enter the Robots

Robots are cool, fascinating, and not just a little bit creepy. But it's time to get over our fears of a robotic future, because the future is now. Here, a tour of some of the robots--humanoid and otherwise--that Molly Wood saw at the International Expo in Japan in April of this year.


 PCs Get Faster.  But Who Cares??

Desktop computers are faster than they've ever been, thanks to new dual-core processors, SLI graphics technology, and 64-bit operating systems. But who's this stuff for? Does anyone really need a computer that fast?


 DVD Storage is so Over!

The format wars over the next generation of DVD media are heating up, and both sides are hoping for a compromise or a clear winner. They're kidding themselves. When it comes to storage, and even recording high-def video, DVDs are over. Bring on the next generation of storage.


 When Nationwide Coverage Isn't Nationwide

I don't cotton to cell phone companies who say they have service in a state like Montana--but really don't. Even worse, they say they have nationwide coverage, but it doesn't include some states that are actually in the nation. That and other issues are plaguing cell phone customers everywhere. Luckily, Kent German of Cnet.com is here to answer the call. Check him out.


 The Evils of Old Tech

With thoughts of environmental responsibility in the air today, it seems like a good time to explore some of the many ways to be less-destructive users of technology. Suzanne Brannon of CNet's Anchordesk has kindly compiled a guest column that warns you of the dangers of toxic technology in the most helpful way possible--by also offering real-world solutions for gadget recycling.



 Why In-dash GPS Nav Systems are Lost

He's back! Brian Cooley returns to the column world with the launch of CNET's newest coverage adventure, Car Tech. And believe me when I tell you, the guy knows cars. In his new column Driving It (just like Living It, remember?), Cooley will be cruising around in luxury vehicles, offering his opinions on the cars themselves, their included technology, aftermarket gadgets, and more. In the inaugural edition, he's taking a look at in-car GPS systems and wondering, frankly, why they're so doggone bad. C'mon, admit it. You missed him.




 Are Rebates Worth the Hassle?

No rebate goes unfulfilled in our house, no matter how small.  I am a rebate junkie.  I'm also in the minority, it seems. Tom Merritt of CNet.com explores the troublesome world of rebates and gives you the step-by-step on how to get back your hard-earned cash.





 Computer Donation and Recycling Sites

Time to upgrade your old computer, printer, scanner, etc. or replace a dead monitor?  OK, what do you do with that old dinosaur?  Little Jimmy or Amy may not want it, no friends willing to take it off your hands, and it's definitely not 'PC' to put it in the local landfill.    We've come to your rescue.  

Here's a list of some of our national and local agencies that either take donations of computers or old computers/hardware for recycling - and it's tax deductible:

Adaptive Computer Empowerment Services
(619)275-5028

Computer Training & Education Center (CTEC)
A computer literacy program in Chula Vista who take donated computer equipment (486 processors or better).  They also take hardware, software and most any  parts.  More information: (619)427-9066

Friends of  Torrey Pines
The local non-profit is taking donations of used computer equipment to help students at Torrey Pines Elementary School.  They are looking for used IBM Pentium/Celeron-based systems, with CD-ROM drives and network interface cards.  They would also welcome any MAC computers (LC or higher).  Contact: Julie Lin (858) 453-2323

IMS Recycling
(619)231-2521

National Cristina Foundation
(NCF) provides computer technology and solutions to give people with disabilities, students at risk and the economically disadvantaged the opportunity, through training, to lead more independent and productive lives.
1-800-christina

PEP (Parents/Educators/Publishers)
            http://www.microweb.com/pepsite/
On the menu click on "computer recycling" for a state, national, and international "directory of agencies that facilitate donations of used computer hardware for schools and community groups."

Rancho Bernardo Community Presbyterian Thrift Shop
(858)486-5023

San Ysidro Health Clinic
Their clinicians need computers for communication, word processing and data imput and retrieval.  Contact: Dr. Hector Vera (619) 428-5561

Second Chance
This is a non-profit agency that provides job readiness training, work experience, job placement and housing assistance for situationally homeless and long-term unemployed people.  More information: Second Chance, (619) 239-1003. http://www.secondchanceprogram.org
E-mail: mail@secondchanceprogram.org

Technology Training Foundation of America
This foundation will not only take any computer donations, but also printer cartridges, cell phones, small appliances, and electronics, keeping them out of the landfills.  
(858) 547-3992

Please contact us if you know of any other organizations we can add to our listing.  Send email to:  webmasters