2022 March eBytes
Best free tax software 2022: Free online tax filing
Best Amazon Prime alternatives 2022: Cheaper options, just as fast
What to Do When You've Been Hacked
50 useful Alexa skills you need to try today
Chrome OS Flex Turns an Aging Laptop Into a Chromebook for Free
5G Cell Data WiFi Internet setup by PCC Member
Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, or Linux: Which Operating System Is Best?
Best Wi-Fi Routers for 2022
What Is the Blockchain and What's it Used For?
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Best free tax software 2022: Free online tax filing
Professional tax preparation services are great programs for those with complex tax filings. But many online programs offer free tax software for those with simple returns.
https://www.zdnet.com/finance/taxes/best-free-tax-software/
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Best Amazon Prime alternatives 2022: Cheaper options, just as fast
Not satisfied with the latest Amazon Prime price hike? Seek these alternatives that are cheaper, just as fast, and in many ways, better.
https://www.zdnet.com/article/best-amazon-prime-alternatives/
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What to Do When You've Been Hacked
When your email, credit card, or identity gets hacked, it can be a nightmare. Knowing what to expect can be a help; knowing how to head off the hackers is even better. Our guide helps with both.
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/what-to-do-when-youve-been-hacked
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50 useful Alexa skills you need to try today
There are more than 70,000 Alexa skills. We've picked out the best 50, so you don't have to.
https://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/50-useful-alexa-skills-you-need-to-try/
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Chrome OS Flex Turns an Aging Laptop Into a Chromebook for Free
This might be the best way to keep a laptop out of a landfill.
https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/chrome-os-flex-turns-an-aging-laptop-into-a-chromebook-for-free/
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5G Cell Data WiFi Internet setup by PCC Member
Set up a T-Mobile 5G WIFI router a little over a week ago. Cost is $55/mo or $50 with auto pay. I get a strong signal with usually 3 or 4 bars on modem. Cost includes all taxes and equipment rental. 2.4 and 5 wireless and two ethernet cable connections. Can have multiple SSID (3 or 4?). No contract and do not have to be a T-Moble cell user.
Speed test on Ookla double+ of Xfinity: download (usually about 300mbps down and 60 upload). This is with modem behind a TV, (not recommended), and modem is in center of house on ground level. I live near Century college and believe the tower is on water tower near the college. I am about 3 or 4 blocks in a straight line from the water tower.
I use a Tablo 4 tuner OTA DVR connected to a 3 gb hard drive with Roku sticks on TVs. I had a poor Comcast connection, so the TV reception is as good or better than Comcast/Xfinity. I pay a subscription to get a 14 day on screen program (similar to Xfinity) and commercial skip. New Roku controllers match easily to control tv on/off and volume and speak to control. I have been using a Tablo for about 6 weeks.
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Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, or Linux: Which Operating System Is Best?
We break down the top desktop operating systems from Microsoft, Apple, Google, and Ubuntu to help you pick the one that's right for you. New for this update: Windows 11!
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Best Wi-Fi Routers for 2022
Your router holds your smart home together. From mesh to gaming to Wi-Fi 6, we've tested the latest models to bring you our top picks.
https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/best-wi-fi-router/
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What Is the Blockchain and What's it Used For?
Confused about the blockchain? Here's everything you need to know about this decentralized technology, how Bitcoin and NFTs factor in, and how it's used in the real world.
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/what-is-the-blockchain-and-whats-it-used-for
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Links - News, Tips, & Downloads
iOS 15.4 Beta: Anti-Stalking Alerts, Gender-Neutral Siri and More - Apple released a fourth beta for iOS 15.4 on Tuesday. Here are the new features you should know about.
How to Edit a PDF - PDFs can be a serious pain to edit if you don't have the right tools. While some are pricey, a few free tools can get the job done, too. Here's what you need.
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-edit-a-pdf
How to Convert PDFs to Word Documents and Image Files - Quite a few apps, including some free ones, turn your PDFs into editable Word docs or image files that you can embed. It's easier than you may think.
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-convert-pdfs-to-word-documents-and-image-files
How to Stop Windows Apps From Launching at Startup - Too many startup apps can be a drag on your PC’s performance. Here's how to prevent apps from automatically starting when you sign into Windows 10 or 11.
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/stop-windows-10-apps-from-launching-at-startup
Drop Everything and Clear Your Android Cookies and Cache - From Firefox to Google Chrome to Samsung Internet, your phone's web browsers need some cleanup from time to time.
https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/drop-everything-and-clear-your-android-cookies-and-cache
Best Chromebook for 2022: 7 Chromebooks Starting at Under $300 - These Chromebooks will let you experience the best of Google's Chrome OS, whether it's for work, school or play.
https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-chromebook/
How to Get a Secret Phone Number (and Why You Need One) - When you don't want to hand out your digits, don't buy a separate phone. Burner apps let you create disposable phone numbers you can even reuse.
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/burner-accounts-101-how-to-get-extra-numbers-for-a-smartphone
How to Factory Reset Windows - If your Windows 10 or Windows 11 machine is on the fritz, it might be time to restore the computer to its out-of-the-box settings. Here’s how to factory reset your PC.
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/factory-reset-windows-10
Windows 10 Settings You'll Want to Disable Right Now - Adjusting these default settings can stop annoying ads, boost privacy and up your computer's speed.
https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/windows-10-settings-youll-want-to-disable-right-now/
Best monitor under $200 you can get for 2022 - A second monitor can make work or school much more productive, and you don't have to pay much to get a decent model from Dell, Samsung, LG or others.
https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-monitor-under-200/
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Ask a Question - Send any Tips & Downloads, Ask a Question, For Sale, or articles to: TheMiningPCC@gmail.com
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Q. From a PCC Member – What would be the 1, 2, 3's of determining a new computer for a retiree? My husband would like something just for e-mails and finances; not a lot of photos or streaming, and no gaming. Looking for good VALUE, not necessarily lowest price.
A. From Tom Kreuzer, a PCC Board member. Knowing what you need to do will determine what will work best. For some a tablet may be good enough. A Chromebook is also an option. Are the finances software that runs in Windows or is it a site or app like Mint? Do you need touch screen? If you look at the last PCC Survey you see that people are using their phone and tablet for more of the things we used a desktop or laptop for. Chromebooks have an end of life date that you should check before you buy it. It's in the advanced settings
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Q. From a PCC Member – Options for Word and Excel?
A. From Tom Kreuzer, a PCC Board member. Check on the PCC Web site for the Aug 2021 meeting video and handout. Lots of options. Another alternative to MS Office is "Open Office" - it's free.
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Q. From a PCC Member – Most people were still having problems with VIA Benefits.
A. From Tom Kreuzer, a PCC Board member. It should get better. Everyone is in the same boat and phone support is very frustrating.
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Q. From a PCC Member – On my WiFi router I have weak security WPA. Can I reconfigure my router or do a firmware update to use WPA2/WPA3 or do I need a new router?
A. From Tom Kreuzer, a PCC Board member. Check the specs for your router or go in the settings. Most routers default to the highest security, so I would bet you need a new router.
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Q. From a PCC Member - I listen to pipe organ concerts from Europe on the internet. I am looking for headphones that are good for music with good bass reproduction. Any recommendations that will connect through a 3.5mm connection on a laptop?
A. From Tom Kreuzer, a PCC Board member. I do not have a recommendation because what I consider good is different than you. I suggest you go into a store with your phone and try different ones. If you can not hear them in person, buy from a local store or online that has a good return policy.
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Q. From a PCC Member - I’m interested in streaming high-resolution audio, such as from Amazon’s HiFi, Qobus, or other service. I’m confused by how to do this: both what type of equipment I’ll need (and not wishing to spend a crazy $’s) and how to connect to the signal. For example, I see that some audio receivers are “wifi enabled” for streaming music. I assume this means that the receiver can pick up the Amazon HiFi service in some way via my home wifi signal (??). It appears that other equipment is not “wifi enabled” yet can still stream music. I assume that in these cases that the music source material must come into the receiver through a device that’s wifi enabled, such as through a laptop computer that’s then connected to the receiver either via HDMI cable or maybe Bluetooth. Or maybe the music streaming wifi signal coming in through a cell phone that’s then connected to the receiver via Bluetooth. But in these cases, how do I know that the cell phone or laptop being used has the right capabilities for a high resolution audio signal? Or are there other ways to do this??
A. From Tom Kreuzer, a PCC Board member. Audio is like Video in that to stream it you need a device in your house with an app for the service you want to play. The device connects by Ethernet or WiFi to the service and downloads/streams the audio to play on your TV or receiver. The device could be a Smart TV, Smart Receiver, Ruko box, Google Chromecast, Amazon Fire Stick, or many others.
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Q. From a PCC Member – Good article in the NY Times Jan 31 on buying a modem and not lease. https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/tp-link-archer-a7-router-review/
A. From Tom Kreuzer, a PCC Board member. I always recommend people buy a modem and router instead of leasing a modem. Over the life you will save hundreds of dollars and have better equipment.
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Q. From a PCC Member – I need a new phone, was going to replace it with another Republic Wireless phone, but, per reviews I read, Republic Wireless has really gone downhill since its acquisition by Dish Network. I keep reading about problems with the Republic Wireless 5.0 plan, whatever that is. So, are you still on RW, or have you switched to something else? What else?
I'm like you. I like a bargain ($30/month is good enough for me), but, if it doesn't work, then that's not a bargain. I am still living without effective RW voicemail, since October, 2021. Republic Wireless says it is still broken, due to issues with Google/Android. But I seriously doubt AT&T, actual Sprint, & Verizon customers would accept broken voicemail. I bought the Moto G Power with 64 GB RAM ($200) and really long battery life, and, other than the voicemail issue, I like it.
A. From Tom Kreuzer, a PCC Board member. My issues with Republic are the text "VOIP" not accepted by some companies for two factor authentication which is nothing new and effects many smaller companies. The second issue is not seeing my voicemail in the phone app. I get the notification that a voicemail is left and then dial "1" and put in my PIN to get voicemail. The timestamp is Eastern so I subtract one hour. I have not had any new issues since Dish bought them. What have you had? I would guess the voicemail is fixed in the 5.0 plans.
The Republic Wireless 5.0 plans were started in Dec 2021 by Dish. Doesn't look like you can get any of the old plans today. Back in May 2021 I prepaid for a year of service "My Choice 1GB" for $250 that includes all taxes and fees. After mine runs out in May 2022 I expect I will have to decide to stay and get one of the 5.0 plans or move to another company. Sounds like there are some issues with old phones and plans moving to 5.0 that they are working on. I would guess it is the new 5.0 app running on old versions of Android.
I trust Cnet and PC Mag for recommendations. Example of cheap phone plans: https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-cheap-phone-plans/
https://www.pcmag.com/news/best-cheap-phone-plans
Most phones can be used with any plan as long as the phone is running a current Android version. This is because most phone today are unlocked and can run on most services.
Also, people should be upgrading old phones to a 5G phone as more 5G rolls out. 5G phones now start at $299 where they were $1,000+ a little over a year ago.
More info on plans I ran into... Best inexpensive phone plans. Best overall: Tello Economy costs $5/month for the first month, then $10/month for unlimited talk, text and 1GB of data. Best value: Mint Mobile, S15/month for unlimited talk, text and unlimited data. though the data will be slowed after the first 4GB. Cheapest prepaid phone plan: Boost Mobile, $100/yr. ($8.33/month) for unlimited talk and text and 1GB of data. Cheapest unlimited plan: Mint Unlimited, $30/month for unlimited talk, text and data is slowed after you use 35GB in a month. Best cheap multiple-line plan: Visible $40/month for unlimited talk, text and data for one line, or $35/line for two lines shared with two parties… $30/line for three… or $25/line for four. Each party pays for their own line. Note: Some plans are available only to new customers, and offers are subject to change.
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Q. From a PCC Member - I am looking for a reliable computer tech/business to help me decide if my ASUS laptop is worth upgrading or if I need to get a new one. Thanks for any suggestions?
A. From Tom Kreuzer, a PCC Board member - If the laptop is over 3 years old or can’t be upgraded to Win 11, go to “Settings/Windows Update” to see, it is not worth updating. If it is newer and running Win 11 or can be upgraded to Win 11 check to see how much RAM it has in “Settings/System/About”. If it has less than 8GB, it should be upgraded. If it is old, you can continue to run Win 10 till late 2025 or look to buy a low end laptop or ChromeBook for less than $500. In either case you can tune your PC for free to speed it up if it is running slow. Example: https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-tune-up-your-windows-10-pc. You can also message me if you need more instructions or questions.
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Q. From a PCC Member – My Internet seems slow, not sure if I have a problem?
A. From Tom Kreuzer, a PCC Board member. Check you Internet speed at a site like https://pcmag.speedtestcustom.com/ which will show your upload and download speed. You should plug your laptop directly into Modem/router with an ethernet cable and not use WiFi. You should be getting the speed you are paying for from your provider. If not contact them. If the connected ethernet is good, the problem is your home WiFi. You can check your WiFi speed from multiple locations near and far from your router on your phone or laptop.
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Q. From a PCC Member - Thanks for your presentation yesterday. Someone made a comment about Chrome’s Incognito Mode. I think they might find interesting the article available at:
https://www.quora.com/How-does-Google-track-me-even-when-Im-not-using-it/answer/Gabriel-Weinberg?ch=17&oid=309379241&share=4ea195cd&srid=szKFY&target_type=answer?
A. From Tom Kreuzer, a PCC Board member. Looks a good deal of the info in the link is false from a competitor. I usually stick to unbiased sites like PCMag or CNet, many other sources have other interests or are just false. There is more false info on the internet than there is truth. Gabriel Weinberg is the CEO/Founder of DuckDuckGo, what he says has some truth, but his product is not any better with ads sold and targeted to make money for his company. Personally I use an ad blocker which cuts down on what I see and the ads that I see I would rather they be for my interests than CBD, ED, or others. As far as tracking, when you use an Amazon, Facebook, Instagram, and millions of other sites you login with an account and are tracked no matter what browser or VPN you use. When you buy or lease a car the state sells that info. When you have a baby or buy a house the info is public record and bought and sold. If you use a credit or loyalty card you are tracked. Data is everywhere and when combined into BIG DATA is worth even more.
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Q. From a PCC Member - A member of our household is up early every morning doing a workout at home, via Zoom, that is led by an instructor and attended by several other individuals. She accesses the zoom meeting from a laptop and desires a considerably larger screen from which to view the instructor and other attendees. Thus, my question relates to the purchase of a new larger viewing device to take the output from the laptop. I am woefully uninformed in this regard and am uncertain as to whether I am looking for a TV or a monitor, or are they one and the same these days? Or are there other alternatives - smart phone blue-toothed to a TV, smart TV that can do Zoom meetings on its own? I believe we are looking for a viewing device somewhere in the neighborhood of 30”, which would be ~ 2.5X what we have presently. Any comments/suggestions you have in the matter would be welcomed.
A. From Tom Kreuzer, a PCC Board member. You are not along in your limited knowledge. I would estimate 90% do not know the info I will cover below. Most would plug a cable in and hope it works or get limited info from a friend who connected something to a TV and got something working. The more you know, the better the solution you can have and not pay more than you need.
Let’s start with the laptop. It depends on what kind of external port and graphics card your laptop has. Most laptops have a HDMI or a Display Port (looks like HDMI, but square on one side). The graphics card in the laptop supports a number of resolutions. My cheap HP laptop supports an HDMI output and resolutions 7 different resolutions from 800x600 to 1366x768. 1280x720 is called 720p. 1024x768 is 1K. 1366x768 is called HD. 1920x1080 is Full HD or 1080p. 3200x1800 is Ultra HD or 4K and there is 8K on high end laptops. You can check the specs of your laptop in the manual or by going to Windows Settings\System\Display then look at the “Display resolution” drop down.
You are correct that most TVs today can function as a monitor. You can check the specs of the TV to see what resolutions the TV supports. More expensive TVs support higher resolutions. No sense buying a TV that supports 8K if your laptop only supports 1K. Some high end SmartTVs support running Zoom or Skype apps so would not require a laptop or phone connection and also include a mike and camera in the TV. With a laptop and HDMI cable, you are still using the mike and camera on the laptop.
Some SmartTVs support “Casting” from a phone or tablet to the TV using ChromeCast or Apple Airplay. This solution doesn’t require a cable, but you have limits on which apps can be cast and the resolution they support. Bluetooth does not support video connections.
Lots of numbers, let me know any questions
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