The Desert Computer Tutor

Category: Productivity

  • Do We Need Mousepads Anymore?

    mouse pad

    Do you still use a mouse pad? I haven’t used one in years but I don’t use a mouse much either. I like the trackpad on my Chromebook just fine.

    Now that most of us use an optical mouse that works on almost any surface, I figured we didn’t need mouse pads anymore but a recent article by Michael Crider on howtogeek.com made me realize that there are actually some benefits to using them.  I thought you would like to know.

    Remember the old ball-driven mouse?  Mouse pads provided a smooth and predictable tracking area, and helped to keep the tracking ball free of dirt.  Do you remember having to open them up to clean the tracking ball with alcohol?  (I thought it was kind of fun and used to do it for people at my office.)

    At the turn of this century, Microsoft and Logitech introduced the optical mouse, which has a tiny, low-powered optical sensor and LED (light emitting diode) instead of a mechanical roller ball.  These offer consistent tracking on almost any surface (as long as it isn’t reflective or transparent, like glass) and eliminate the buildup of oil and debris on a tracking ball.

    A few years later, the laser-equipped mouse came on the scene and it would track on any surface. Thus, mouse pads began to fall out of fashion.

    However, mouse pads still serve several important functions. First, they project the surface of your desk at your usual mousing spot.  The repeated motions of the rubber or plastic feet of your mouse against the surface of your desk will wear away the finish on most pressed wood, particle board, leather, and even polished hardwood if it’s not well maintained.

    And even though your mouse’s tracking function no longer picks up dirt and skin oil from your desk, the feet of your mouse do.  A mouse pad won’t completely alleviate this, but it will keep those little feet fresh longer. Crider says you can even buy replacement pads to stick on the feet of your mouse if they are so worn that the plastic body is dragging.

    So, do you need a mouse pad for your desk? Technically, no. But you should probably use one if you’re mousing in the same place for any extended amount of time. Both your desk and your mouse will thank you.

    But the most important reason to use a mouse pad is that the pictures on them are just so darn cute.

    For the complete article and some great illustrations, go to https://www.howtogeek.com/304367/do-you-really-need-a-mouse-pad/

    Share this with the folks you care about and save their desks and mice too.

    Enjoy!

    Mardi

  • Digital Calendars Rock!

    image of google calendar

    Are you using the Calendar app on your computer or mobile gadgets? Perhaps you have considered using a digital calendar, but wonder if it’s worth the time and effort to learn?  Perhaps you are curious about some of the features you aren’t using now?

    Digital calendars are one of the best uses of modern technology and they are easy to learn.  They have a lot of “bells and whistles” that you may not need, but you might be surprised at how many features you will enjoy.

    Here are 7 Good reasons to use digital calendars and
    2 great articles on how to use them

    1. You have a lot of appointments and it’s a challenge to keep up with them — social, medical, business, family

    2. You would like to be reminded via email or pop up screens so nothing falls through the cracks.

    3. You have a big project you would like to do but you can’t seem to get started.  Breaking it down into small steps and putting it on your calendar would get it done.

    4. You would like to be able to see your spouse’s schedule so you won’t schedule conflicting appointments.

    5. Many of your To Do’s on your To Do List have deadlines and you’d like reminders so they will get done on time.

    6. You would like to be able to see your appointments on your smartphone or tablet when you are away from home so you can know if you are available to schedule something — to get it done the first time, instead of having to say “Let me call you when I get home and am in front of my calendar.”

    7. You would like reminders to purchase birthday cards or gifts so you can get them in the mail in time for the big day.

    Outlook syncs with Calendar Apps
    Years ago, I used Microsoft Outlook but now I use the Google Calendar.  I have an iPhone right now and I downloaded the Google Calendar app to my iPhone. However, the Calendar App that comes with the iPhone can be set up to work with Microsoft Outlook and the Google calendar.

    If you are in the Apple ecosystem, you can easily use the Apple Calendar App. It should be activated in your settings alread.

    If you have an android phone, the Google Calendar is probably activated already.
    You Can Easily Use the Calendar App on Your Phone

    Here is a great article about the advantages of Google Calendar with some neat tips and tricks.  Click here

    Here is a detailed article on all the features of the Apple Calendar and how to use them.  Click here

    If these articles seem too daunting, consider hosting a playshop, or schedule some one-on-one time with me. You will be using your digital calendar like a pro in no time!