More Help & Advice from Marc Saltzman

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More Help & Advice from Marc Saltzman

:: About The Author

As a prolific freelance journalist, author, radio and TV host, Marc Saltzman is one of North America's most recognized and trusted experts in the ever-changing world of high-tech. Marc specializes in consumer electronics, computer software and hardware, video gaming, portable devices and Internet trends.

Along with his weekly syndicated columns with Sympatico MSN, Gannett News Service, USAToday.com, CNN.com and Montreal Gazette, Marc currently contributes to more than 50 prominent publications, including USA Today, Playboy, FHM, AARP – The Magazine, Inc.com, Microsoft Home, Movie Entertainment magazine, Inside Entertainment, Chill, HUB: CE and Here's How. Marc has authored 14 books, hosts two radio shows and is a regular on-air technology expert on CNN, Global TV and G4TechTV.

See all of Marc Saltzman's articles on Sympatico / MSN's Tech & Gadgets channel.

:: More from Marc Saltzman

Scary Moments in Tech History
A look back at some of Tech's biggest bombs... some of them downright scary!

Hands-free chatting solutions for drivers
13 options for going hands-free in your car, so you don't get a ticket!

Stay healthy with this "clean" tech
Concerned about the spread of H1N1 and other nasty germs? Check out this collection of "clean" gadgets and accessories that might keep you out of the doctor's office.

:: From The Blog...

Read More and Discuss

Last Updated: November 9 2009, 4:51 PM

Wild about Wi-Fi? Learn the risks, solutions

What you need to know about wireless security.

Last Updated: November 6 2009, 1:36 PM

Need a productivity boost? Tight on cash? Try these apps

We separate the best from the rest, so you know which downloadable productivity-focused apps you should snag for your smartphone or PC.

Last Updated: November 2 2009, 3:57 PM

Bell TV announces 100 HD channels, a Canadian first

Bell Canada today announced a significant milestone for its satellite-based digital television service: the provider is the first in Canada to offer 100 high-definition channels.

Last Updated: November 2 2009, 2:33 PM

Got a BlackBerry? Try these app-etizing add-ons

BlackBerry App World adds sass to your smartphone. Here's the skinny on this sleek online destination to download thousands of applications.

Last Updated: October 23 2009, 2:20 PM

What's the "Next Big Thing" in technology?

The future is friendly -- but bring your wallet. Here we look at a few promising gadgets n' gizmos we hope to lay our hands on sooner than later.

Last Updated: October 22 2009, 1:46 PM

Top 20 Bing tips n' tricks

Since it launched with much fanfare in June 2009, Microsoft's "Bing" search engine has introduced a number of impressive features not found in most competitors, such as Google. Here we look at little-known tips and tricks on getting the most out of Bing.ca.

Last Updated: October 12 2009, 7:52 AM

Windows 7: For business or bust?

Microsoft's next operating system, Windows 7, debuts next week. Given the backlash from 2007's Windows Vista and the changes in the marketplace, your business must now decide whether it's worth the cost and the hassle to upgrade.

Sony`s new hand-held gaming system, the PSP go.

Last Updated: October 2 2009, 1:26 PM

Should you go for a PSP Go? Yes and no.

It's got a smaller, slider-based form factor and a slew of connectivity options, but the high price tag (and some other caveats) may leave fans disappointed.

Last Updated: September 28 2009, 8:36 PM

6 hot HDTV features worth considering

Separating the hype from the facts in HDTV land can be daunting. Check out this list of the 6 features we think you should keep in mind before you buy.

Last Updated: September 24 2009, 8:13 AM

The smartest smartphones for business

Many businesses depend on mobile phones that also browse the web, send and receive email, and use other applications. But how do you choose between not only BlackBerry and iPhone, but Google's Android, Windows Mobile, Palm Pre and others?

Last Updated: September 21 2009, 8:05 AM

Are netbooks ideal for your business?

Those relatively cheap, lightweight, Internet-enabled devices can be used for little else but accessing the web and email but maybe that's all your employees need.

Last Updated: September 16 2009, 11:09 AM

The skinny on pocket camcorders

Flipping over latest video camera craze? Pocket-sized recorders are worth the hype, but be aware of their limitations. Here's a look at a few suggested models.

Last Updated: September 11 2009, 4:00 PM

Best of PMA Canada: Your camera can do WHAT?!

Here's a look at four of the most unique digital cameras to debut at the 2009 PMA trade show in Toronto. Say cheese!

Last Updated: September 7 2009, 3:49 PM

iPod killers: A look at 5 hot MP3 players

iPod. The word has become synonymous with digital music. It can be easy to forget that there are any other media players on the market. But there are, and some of them are even better than the iPod. Surprised?

Batman: Arkham Asylum from EIDOS Interactive and Warner Brothers

Last Updated: August 31 2009, 1:38 PM

Holy fun, Batman! This game rocks

Just as Christopher Nolan's "The Dark Knight" introduced us to a grittier Batman flick on the big screen, "Batman: Arkham Asylum" delivers a darker and atmospheric adventure on the small screen.

Last Updated: August 27 2009, 8:09 AM

5 features to look for in your next digital camera

Been a while since you went digicam shopping? You might want to brush up on the latest bells and whistles before you invest in your next toy.

Last Updated: August 24 2009, 8:03 AM

Review: Palm Pre is one smart smartphone

iPhone killer? No, but the Palm Pre is an impressive smartphone, available August 27 with Bell Mobility. Here's a look at its pros and cons.

Last Updated: August 21 2009, 10:41 AM

'G.I. JOE' game brings firepower to consoles

Based on the Hasbro toy line, G.I. JOE: The Rise of COBRA is the current darling at movie theatres -- but how does the video game fare?

Last Updated: August 18 2009, 9:19 AM

Battle of the browsers: Which one rules?

Once a novelty, the web browser has become one of the most important pieces of computer software. So, which one should you go with out of the Big 5: Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome, Safari or Opera?

Last Updated: August 14 2009, 10:17 AM

5 common HDTV myths

Even though high-definition television has been around for more than a decade -- it made its debut at the 1998 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas -- it remains a widely misunderstood technology.

Last Updated: August 10 2009, 2:24 AM

Best of the Blu-ray box sets

HDTV? Check. Surround sound? Yep. Popcorn? Of course. If you're looking to cozy up to some hot Blu-ray box sets, the following are some must-have high-def treats for your home theatre.

Last Updated: August 7 2009, 2:08 PM

5 hot (and free) software downloads for students

Between paying for tuition, books, tech gear and perhaps accommodations, today's post-secondary students -- or perhaps their parents -- aren't getting off easy. Don't worry, we can help you save some cash when it comes to handy software and services a student in your home can use.

Last Updated: August 5 2009, 2:00 PM

7 Things You Didn't Know About Windows 7

Microsoft's next computer operating system is looking to win over skeptics disappointed by the much-hyped but often-maligned Windows Vista. Here's a few things you need to know about Windows 7.

An actor, dressed in a motion-capture suit stands in Ubisoft`s Montreal studio, reviewing the script for a game.

Last Updated: August 5 2009, 10:01 AM

Why Canadians make the best video games

O Canada, we strain our thumbs for thee. The Great White North is home to some of the hottest video games on the planet. Here we ask the experts why this might be.

Last Updated: August 4 2009, 10:17 AM

Are netbooks ideal for students?

Whether the student in your home is looking for a more portable PC or watching their wallet more closely, one of the hottest tech products that handle both needs are "netbooks." But how ideal are they for schoolwork?

Last Updated: July 31 2009, 9:52 AM

Be a prudent student: Top tips for better web searching

Your essay is due in 24 hours and you're staring at a flashing cursor. Don't panic. We've all been there. As long as you've got an Internet connection and some energy drinks at your side, you can crank out a killer paper -- but take note of these searching tips to better find what you're looking for.

Last Updated: July 24 2009, 8:37 AM

Music lovers, 'Radiotracker' will rock your world

Music lovers who spend time on the Internet know there are plenty of web radio software solutions that let you stream music to your PC from a variety of online stations, but Audial's Radiotracker goes above and beyond the tour of duty.

A scene from the app "Jules Verne`s Return to Mysterious Island"

Last Updated: July 20 2009, 10:07 AM

'App' attack: Best iPod touch, iPhone downloads for the summer

On the go this summer? Here's a look at the best "fun and games" apps, or applications, to download to your iPod touch of iPhone. Oh, and say sayonara to your productivity.

Last Updated: July 15 2009, 12:41 PM

Who ya gonna call? 'Ghostbusters,' the video game

It's been 25 years since Ghostbusters first lit up the big screen and to commemorate that event, Atari has brought the ghost-hunting troupe to the small screen in Ghostbusters: The Video Game. This spirited adventure is now available for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Nintendo Wii and PC.

Last Updated: July 9 2009, 1:10 PM

You call these computers? A look at alternative PCs

Forget everything you know about what a PC should look like and how to interact with it. Companies are forever redefining the look, functionality and interface of personal computers, and here we look at three interesting examples.

Last Updated: July 6 2009, 9:19 AM

Don't break the bank with these HDTVs

If the last time you bought a television was during the Cold War, read on. Many new high-definition televisions (HDTVs) -- which offer a large, widescreen and highly-detailed picture -- are more affordable than you think. Here were highlight a few models worthy of your wallet.

Last Updated: June 29 2009, 1:02 PM

Cure your commute: How to stay entertained (or productive) in the car

Chances are you spend a good deal of time behind the wheel of a vehicle while driving to and from the office. Or perhaps you're cottage-bound every Friday and must sit in traffic en route to your home away from home. Either way, here we look at some ways technology can help ease your lengthy commute.

Last Updated: June 26 2009, 12:13 PM

Driving green: Gadgets to reduce your carbon footprint

Trading in your gas-guzzling SUV for a fuel-efficient hybrid car is one alternative, but there are also smaller choices mobile Canadians can make involving gadgets.

Jack Black stars as roadie Eddie Riggs in EA`s Brutal Legend

Last Updated: June 24 2009, 10:50 AM

Game on! Best of E3 2009

The 15th annual E3 Expo (e3expo.com) once again served as a window to the future of the multibillion-dollar interactive entertainment industry. After roaming the show floor for days, here I present my top video gaming picks. Save your shekels!

Last Updated: June 22 2009, 1:14 PM

Create, play and share in 'The Sims 3'

The sequel to the best-selling computer game series in history is now available (for $49.99; Windows and Macs). Find out here what's new in this eagerly-anticipated "people simulation."

Last Updated: June 22 2009, 8:59 AM

Photo-taking tips from the pros

Want to learn how to really use that camera you own? Yes, we even mean that pocket-sized point-and-shoot model. Here, Canada's hottest shutterbugs offer advice to amateur picture-takers.

Last Updated: June 15 2009, 10:45 AM

Tech for tots: Great gadgets for kids

Just because they're not yet teenagers doesn't mean they can't have fun playing around with some fun technology. Dozens of products designed (or ideal) for kids are available and we take a look at a few of them.

Last Updated: June 10 2009, 12:13 PM

Steal these summer smartphones

Summer is almost here, so you're probably spending less time at home. But that doesn't mean you need to be without entertainment, information and communication at your fingertips.

Last Updated: June 10 2009, 10:11 AM

Fitness guru Jillian Michaels brings back her 'A' game

We sit down with the star of The Biggest Loser to talk about how video games can help kids stay fit -- and have fun at the same time.

Last Updated: June 8 2009, 7:49 AM

Fabulous furniture for your home theatre

With so much of the attention -- and thus, budget -- spent on a big-screen television, many other home theatre accoutrements lag as a mere afterthought, be it an audio-video receiver, speakers, universal remote and especially, furniture. But if you're itching to dress up your boom room, we have some stylish suggestions.

Last Updated: June 3 2009, 9:36 AM

Five luxurious laptops for summer

In the market for a new portable PC? Here we look at five new laptops to consider this summer -- each catering to a different need and budget.

Last Updated: June 2 2009, 9:50 AM

'Free Realms' online fantasy world now one million strong

Guess what computer game just hit one million registrants in just 17 days? It's called Free Realms, and this new online fantasy world is free to play and is appropriate for gamers of all ages.

The Tablo turns your laptop into a tablet PC

Last Updated: May 29 2009, 9:41 AM

10 things we like about 'Tablo'

Is it a pen or a mouse? It's both. The Tablo can turn your laptop into a tablet PC -- and that's just the beginning.

Last Updated: May 26 2009, 12:10 PM

5 safety tips for using a public computer

Plan on traveling this summer? Rather than lugging a laptop, many vacationers are using public computers to pick up their web mail, surf the Internet, book reservations to local restaurants, and so on. But you will need to protect your data while using these PCs.

Last Updated: May 24 2009, 1:18 PM

Thanks for the memory: Supersize your phone with microSD

We teamed up with the folks at SanDisk, the leading Flash memory experts, to provide some handy tips to better understand the latest in mobile memory.

Last Updated: May 21 2009, 10:18 PM

Despite economy, drivers still navigating to GPS units

While many summer travelers might opt for a more economical road trip than flying to an exotic location, it appears there's still room in the budget to pick up a GPS navigation unit for the journey.

HP`s new TouchSmart DX 9000 touch-screen based desktop PC

Last Updated: May 14 2009, 4:51 AM

Give it the finger: Touch comes to PCs

Can't touch this? Why not? Leading computer manufacturer HP has just debuted a touch-enabled desktop computer. We'd give it two thumbs up if we could pry our hands from its screen.

Velvet Velour, a character from the game Vampire: The Masquerade ? Bloodlines created by Troika Games.

Last Updated: May 10 2009, 10:08 PM

Sex, lies and video games

Violence, drugs and foul language are no strangers to today's video games, but the latest eyebrow-raising content might surprise you.

Last Updated: May 5 2009, 5:18 PM

'Little Red Riding Hood' goes interactive

"The Path" is a strange, creepy indie PC game that puts a new and introspective spin on the classic fairy tale, Little Red Riding Hood. What would YOU do if you ran into the wolf?

Last Updated: May 3 2009, 5:02 PM

Stuck in the middle with you: Hot midrange digital cameras

Get the skinny on the growing "midrange" category of digital cameras. Best of both worlds?

Last Updated: April 24 2009, 5:22 PM

It's game on at Disney World

What do the Disney World resorts offer a video game fan? Plenty. Whether you're 6 or 106, here we look at two new attractions that place you in the middle of the action.

Last Updated: April 24 2009, 5:15 PM

Disney World goes high-tech

A geek like me simply can't resist getting as excited about the technology behind the Disney World parks as the attractions themselves. Here we look at a few interesting ways the Orlando-based theme parks embrace tech, both behind the scenes and to power the attractions.

Last Updated: April 22 2009, 5:15 PM

Photo back-up made (ridiculously) easy

It's time for some spring cleaning -- on your PC, too. Clever new products take the guesswork out of backing up your photo collection (and other data, too).

Last Updated: April 20 2009, 4:57 AM

Let your hair down with latest 'Guitar Hero'

Music game fans looking for something edgier than Michael Jackson or Duran Duran can now rock out with Activision's Guitar Hero: Metallica, the latest in the best-selling rhythm series.

Last Updated: April 17 2009, 5:38 PM

Best 'bang for your buck' electronics

Don't break the bank for these great deals on home theatre gear.

Last Updated: April 16 2009, 10:00 AM

Mamma mia, Mario, Nintendo does it again

What do you do for an encore after selling more than 100 million units of the Nintendo DS? If you're Nintendo, you launch a new and improved portable gaming machine: the Nintendo DSi.

Last Updated: April 16 2009, 9:00 AM

Did you find all of the Easter eggs?

Every year around this time we take a bunch of DVDs we're watching and hunt for secrets buried on them. Called "Easter eggs," these hidden goodies are planted by the film studio to offer a reward for those patient (or savvy) enough to find them.

Last Updated: April 14 2009, 10:00 AM

5 ways to speed up your PC -- for free

You don't need to break the bank to buy a new computer. In fact, you don't need to buy one at all. If money is tight, consider these tips to speeding up your existing machine.

Last Updated: April 13 2009, 3:12 PM

'GTA' shocks, rocks its way onto Nintendo DS

The Nintendo DS, long viewed as a family-friendly video game platform with games such as Nintendogs, New Super Mario Bros. and Pokemon, is getting some new attitude.

Last Updated: April 5 2009, 9:00 PM

Pros and cons of an "all-in-one" printer

When deciding to buy a new printer for your home, it's important to weigh the benefits of a multifunction device that not only prints but scans, faxes, and copies documents compared to the standalone variety.

Last Updated: April 2 2009, 9:09 AM

Do you use your cell phone to its fullest?

Little-known cell phone features can help you in your day-to-day life outside of the home, be it voice memos, syncing your contacts, GPS navigation, file storage and modem for your laptop.

Last Updated: March 20 2009, 4:20 PM

Are you getting enough "fibre"? Increase your broadband options

What type of broadband pipe is best for your home office? Several providers have added to the selection by offering high-speed Internet over fibre optic cable.

Last Updated: March 20 2009, 4:02 PM

What happens when you buy "spam"?

Sympatico MSN wanted to see what happened if someone bought one of those product advertisements that show up as "spam" in your email inbox. Do you really get the product? Or is this a malicious attempt at stealing credit card information? We found out.

Last Updated: March 14 2009, 9:26 AM

What's better: NHL game in-person or on HDTV?

Game on! Is it real, or is it HDTV? We compare a real, in-person NHL game versus the at-home high-definition experience. Which one is better?

Last Updated: March 9 2009, 11:26 AM

Are you taking risks in the 'cloud'?

Online computing is growing in popularity for consumers and businesses, but it's not without a few risks.

Last Updated: March 6 2009, 8:47 AM

Life in the fast iLane: Setup aside, it works well

There's a lot of buzz brewing in Waterloo, Ont., about a new mobile gadget designed for use in the car. Nope, we're not referring to BlackBerry phone-maker Research in Motion, for a change.

Last Updated: March 3 2009, 9:03 PM

That's a rap: 50 Cent game sequel impresses

Only in the video game world does a sequel outshine its predecessor. Such is the case with THQ's 50 Cent: Blood on the Sand, an impressive follow-up to 2006's less-than-spectacular-yet-commercially-successful 50 Cent: Bulletproof. And yes, it's *that* 50 Cent, one of the hottest rap stars in the world.

Last Updated: February 25 2009, 10:42 AM

5 ways to protect your PC files

Bring on the back-up! Here we cover a few ways to protect your important PC files. And don't worry, keeping your digital life backed-up doesn't have to be a chore.

Last Updated: February 17 2009, 9:16 AM

Samuel L. Jackson is back -- and this time he's interactive

If you thought Samuel L. Jackson's previous projects were laden with profanity and violence, such as the Kill Bill or Pulp Fiction flicks, wait till you lay your hands on Afro Samurai, an over-the-top animated adventure based on the television miniseries of the same name.

Last Updated: February 15 2009, 1:10 PM

Get shorty: Save time with quick keyboard strokes

Check out (or print out) these simple shortcuts for Windows Vista and Microsoft Office.

Last Updated: February 11 2009, 8:10 AM

Red hot iPhone tips and tricks

OK, so might already know one or two of these tips and shortcuts to improving your iPhone experience, but hopefully a few of these following pointers will be news to you. Print out the list and give 'em a try...

Last Updated: February 6 2009, 11:31 AM

Seven things you should know about Windows 7

While it didn't garner the same level of media attention as, say, LG's Dick Tracy-style video phone watch or Sony's 1.4-pound mini-notebook, the official unveiling of Microsoft's next operating system was an impressive showing at the recent Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

Last Updated: February 5 2009, 1:35 PM

Struggling students, there's always Tutorgiant.com

Whether you're pulling your hair out over algebra or struggling with science, a new Canadian website, Tutorgiant.com, is trying to help students with on-demand instructional videos and accompanying printable worksheets.

Last Updated: February 2 2009, 9:04 AM

Have some 'outdoor' fun on the Wii

Nintendo Wii owners itching to become outdoor sportsmen without leaving home can do so with two new video games for their favourite console.

Last Updated: January 27 2009, 10:17 AM

Buying a big-screen TV for the Big Game

While you'll enjoy the television long after your friends leave on Super Bowl Sunday, here we suggest five hot televisions, each one ideal for watching the Big Game this weekend.

Last Updated: January 15 2009, 10:59 AM

'Co-op' gaming defines 2008

Still playing video games by yourself? That's so 2007. The biggest game trend over this past year was multiplayer play –- but rather than competitive head-to-head matches, 2008 was all about getting your game on in "co-op mode" with a friend beside you or over the Internet.

Last Updated: January 14 2009, 9:05 PM

New Year's Resolutions -- for your PC

Perhaps you've vowed to take better care of your body in 2009: more exercise, higher-quality foods or less smoking. It's a also good time of the year to consider cleaning up your computer.

Last Updated: December 21 2008, 8:49 AM

Ringing in the best tech of '08

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. Naturally, I'm referring to the state of the consumer electronics industry in 2008. Ailing economy aside, here's a look at our favourite gadgets of the year...

Last Updated: December 9 2008, 10:26 AM

Time Magazine's best innovations of 2008

Time magazine has just published its annual "best innovations of the year" list, which you can read in its entirety here, but if you don't have the time or interest to peruse the entire 50 entries (and the editors' rationale behind the nominations), here's the Top 10 list (with our own snarky remarks).

Last Updated: December 9 2008, 10:21 AM

Be smart about online shopping

Shopping online is fast and easy - no wonder so many of us do it. But it isn't without potential pitfalls. So word to the wise: read-up on these essential shopping tips before hitting the virtual mall.

Last Updated: November 29 2008, 11:27 AM

New 'Xbox Experience' refreshes online look, features

If you're one of the 14 million Xbox 360 owners who subscribe to the Xbox Live service you might notice things look a little different when you download the latest update.

Lara Croft, star of the popular Tomb Raider videogame series.

Last Updated: November 27 2008, 8:47 PM

Lara Croft returns in 'Tomb Raider Underworld'

Lara Croft, the world's first digital pin-up girl, is back in the latest chapter in this longstanding video game series, starring an agile heroine with more curves than a race track.

Last Updated: November 27 2008, 9:35 AM

10 steps to safer Internet use

Are you doing enough to protect your family of web surfers? Canada's Check Point Software Technologies Inc., a leading Internet security company, has provided these 10 tips to safer web surfing for you and the kids.

The Nintendo DSi - as yet not available in Canada.

Last Updated: November 26 2008, 10:21 AM

Tech we can't get: great gizmos not available here

Canadian gadget lovers are used to waiting for the technology we want, whether it's TiVo, the iPhone or satellite radio. Here are a few goodies that are still on the waiting list...

Last Updated: October 29 2008, 12:28 PM

Future Shop wants your video games back

Available now in 55 of its 134 stores, a new Future Shop trade-in program lets video gamers bring in used games in exchange for store credits.

Last Updated: October 26 2008, 3:29 PM

'Rock Band' sequel steals the show

What do you do for an encore after launching one of the biggest video games in recent memory? If you're Harmonix, the makers of the just-launched Rock Band 2, you make it bigger, better and louder.

Last Updated: October 22 2008, 1:02 PM

Creepy video games debut for Halloween

Halloween may be a time for trick-or-treating, pumpkin-carving and costume parties, but for millions of video gamers, it's also a perfect opportunity to curl up with a daunting digital diversion with the lights turned off.

A photo taken at a Video Games Live event.

Last Updated: October 20 2008, 3:14 PM

Musical performances go high-tech

Thanks to iPods, satellite radio, and peer-to-peer networks, technology has transformed the way we listen to and share music. Guess what, it has also forever altered how music is performed, too.

Last Updated: October 16 2008, 8:44 AM

Google's Android 'opens up' the smart phone

Can Google replicate its extraordinary successes on the web in a mobile space? They're certainly giving it a go with its brand-new Android platform, which is about to make its U.S. debut. Here's what you need to know about the technology.

Last Updated: October 13 2008, 4:43 PM

Hands on with new touchscreen Sony Reader

Sony has just announced its third-generation Reader Digital Book, the first to let readers use their fingertip to flip through electronic pages. Here's a first look at what to expect.

Last Updated: October 9 2008, 2:45 PM

3 hot iPhone, iPod alarm clocks with a twist

Alarm clocks built for iPods are old news. Heck, virtually every hotel you stay at these days offers them. But a few new models have surfaced recently with some interesting bells and whistles, including iPhone support.

Last Updated: October 5 2008, 8:40 PM

5 'Did ya know?' tech tips

We all need a little help when it comes to computers. Sometimes it's just a simple keyboard shortcut you can benefit from, a little-known free program, cool website or random Windows tip. While these may be old hat for some, the following are a few worth considering.

Last Updated: October 3 2008, 8:41 AM

The new TVs are full of buzzwords

As if buying a new high-definition television weren't difficult enough -- by trying to decide between plasma and LCD, what size is ideal for your room and budget, and which brand to invest in -- you can now toss in a handful of new industry buzzwords and acronyms into the mix.

Last Updated: October 1 2008, 1:57 PM

Impressive physics, visuals power new 'Star Wars' game

While not a perfect adventure, LucasArts' "Star Wars: The Force Unleashed" is a force to be reckoned with. Here's our official review of this hot video game that has sold more than 1.5 million units its first week alone.

Last Updated: September 26 2008, 8:22 AM

Hack your iPod in 5 easy steps

Want your beloved iPod to play dozens of free games, applications or better-quality music, such as "lossless" FLAC files? What about changing the look of your iPod interface? You can -- and for free -- with clever open-source software called Rockbox. Here's how to do it.

Last Updated: September 24 2008, 11:03 AM

Get 'laidback' with your laptop

The Laptop Laidback -- a clever 11-year-old product -- just lightened up.

Last Updated: September 22 2008, 12:11 PM

12 tips for avoiding identity theft

Keep your personal details under lock and keyboard. Here we look at a handful of ways to protect your identity when you're at work, home or a public computer.

Last Updated: September 10 2008, 1:45 PM

Tee off with Tiger, virtually speaking

While EA Sports' Tiger Woods PGA Tour 09 ($59) is similar to last year's golf simulation, the folks at Florida's EA Tiburon studio have added a golf cart-full of new features and improvements to justify the purchase.

A blue 8GB Zune. Image courtesy of Fry`s.com

Last Updated: September 8 2008, 4:00 PM

6 Things you didn't know about the Zune

Microsoft's popular Zune media player has a few interesting tricks up its sleeve. Here we reveal six of them.

Last Updated: September 7 2008, 5:37 PM

High-tech teddy bear coming soon

Consider it a cross between a teddy bear and a video iPod. The iTeddy -- which has already garnered numerous international toy awards -- will be available for Canadian preschoolers early next year.

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