Web Worker Daily

I love technology, but not when it comes to switching PCs — moving all the data and applications from one Windows machine to another is not always as easy as it could be.

I thought I’d share some tips gleaned from my latest move to a new desktop. My way isn’t necessary the best way, but it may give you some ideas when it comes time for you to make the switch. Here are the steps that I took.

Read the rest of this entry »

I’m skittish when it comes to desktop indexing and search apps. Aside from the workstation computer at my last office-based job, I don’t generally keep any running on my computers, whether Windows or Mac-based machines. I just don’t find the need for anything more heavyweight and resource-sapping than what Spotlight or Explorer’s built-in search functions provide. So let’s just say that Exalead Desktop Search was already operating at a disadvantage when I set about giving it a look for the purposes of this blog post, but I was pleasantly surprised.

I was impressed when Exalead detected and offered to index my Thunderbird mailbox during the first run setup wizard. If there’s one thing I shy away from more than desktop indexing applications, it’s the various incarnations of Microsoft Outlook. Of course, Thunderbird’s latest beta allows you to index your accounts for use with Vista’s built-in search, so it’s not critical functionality. Still, better available than not. Read the rest of this entry »

Inspired by Simon Mackie spring-cleaning his laptop, I’ve decided to devote this weekend to cleaning both my desktop and my laptop. I’m not talking about wiping my desk and calling it a day — I’m referring to serious dust-busting and de-cluttering. In this post, I’m going to discuss the essential parts of your workstation and how to clean them.

Despite anything you read below, remember that the manual is your best friend. Refer to each item’s manual before you start cleaning.

The Monitor

Our friends over at The Apple Blog mentioned that the best way to clean your monitor is with an ultra-suede microfiber lens cloth. These are available at most office supply stores at an affordable price. Don’t use cleaning cloths with sewn edges, as these could scratch your monitor – the last thing you would want to do when you’re spring cleaning. Read the rest of this entry »

Like many of us, I spend quite a lot of time on the web and come across a staggering number of interesting things. In Clearing The Cache I pull out some of my favorites and share them with you here.

Daniel Akst says I Once was Chic, but Now I’m Cheap as he goes back to PC (via Execupundit).

Gregg encounters an amusing dialog box from Adobe.

Using Windows 7? Tim shares The Bumper List of Windows 7 Secrets (via Geek in Disguise).

Nick Lewis shares his Web Development Warchest.

GigaOM gives us details on the BarackBerry.

What interesting finds do you have in your cache? Share them in the comments.

One of the obvious needs for a Web Worker on the go is the ability to keep data synchronized across your multiple devices. Your options can vary wildly depending on your combination of hardware.

For those with a Mac on your desk but a PC in your pocket, Eltima Software offers SyncMate, a software solution to keep your Mac and mobile device connected. SyncMate Free lets you connect your Mac with your PDA or Pocket PC (aka Windows Mobile device), keeping documents, contacts, calendars and more all up to date across both devices.

Read the rest of this entry »