WAV files are an uncompressed format. Because of this they can take up a lot of room on computers. MP3s have been the standard for years. Almost every computer and portable music player can read and play MP3s. The same music stored in an MP3 format is about 10 percent of the size of a WAV file. WMAs are even more compressed than MP3s, yet offer comparable quality. While many new cars are able to play MP3s, they may not be able to read a CD using the WMA format.

Mix a 50/50 blend of distilled water with isopropyl alcohol in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on a Made in the USA 100% cotton towel or Scotch-Brite High Performance Cloth. Using gentle strokes, wipe the monitor.

If budget is secondary to the viewing experience, look for a 19" LCD (flat panel) monitor, they offer about a 25% larger viewing area than a 17". Flat panel monitors cost more than the older CRT types, but take up much less space. Monitors with lower pixel response times offer smoother motion. A higher contrast ratio is also preferable. For the ultimate in flexibility and longevity, look for a monitor which offers both digital and analog interfaces and USB ports.

While there may be energy saving benefits by turning off the computer, there is the possibility of increased wear. Leaving computers on allows automatic updates to take place along with scheduled virus scans. Also, the computer is ready to use when you want it without waiting for it to boot and all the programs to load. If you decide to keep your computer on, you might want to turn the monitor off and shutdown/restart the computer at least a couple of times a week.

There are many programs available which help parents monitor computer usage as well as eliminating access to certain types of websites. One of the best methods to keep children safe is to have the computer in a central location such as a kitchen or family room with the monitor able to be viewed by all.

Probably the best method is to set a BIOS password and lock the computer case. While this may seem totalitarian, it is effective. While it is possible for this to be defeated, it will also leave tell-tale signs.

Before you purchase a new remote control, try the following:

• Remove the batteries.
• Press each button and hold it for 3 to 5 seconds.
• If the remote control has a slide button, move the slide to the other position.
• Press each button and hold it for 3 to 5 seconds.
• Return the slide to the original position.
• Install a new set of batteries.

That depends on what you are watching. In general, it is illegal for companies to sell your personal information to others. They can however sell information about viewing habits in your area. For example, a large portion of the 12065 zip code watches Fox News as their primary news source. An exception is if you buy on-demand movies, videos or pay-per-view events. Since you are specifically requesting this service, you are giving your consent that this information can be used.

1) Don't open attachments unless you KNOW they are safe. If you are not sure, either contact the person to verify they sent you the attachment and what they sent or delete it
2) Don't click links in emails unless you are sure of their origination. This is especially true of email where a login is required. Businesses do not send emails requiring you to log into your account unless you just asked for a password reset.
3) Don't reply to unsolicited email. This will only increase the amount of spam received.
4) Keep attachments under 2 megabytes.
5) Don't forward virus notices unless you know they are accurate.
6) If you are going to send an attachment, call the person first.
7) Be specific in the subject line. "Party photos" or "Hi" just doesn't cut it. Also, don't leave the subject line blank.
8) Use proper punctuation.
9) Do not use all upper case letters, this insinuates you are screaming at the recipient.
10) Remember you are sending something which can be saved, forwarded, and printed. Re-read your email before you send it.

CYBERsitter, CyberPatrol and NetNanny are several programs to look at. They all offer free trial versions which you can try.

Depending on the camera you bought, it may have software which will help you do this. If this is the case, a CD should have come with the camera. Another method is to plug the camera into the computer using a USB cable, setting the camera to transfer mode and turning it on. This should automatically start Windows Explorer which will give you the ability to drag and drop photos to the computer. If Windows Explorer does not start, it will need to be started manually. You would then look for the camera in the list under My Computer. Yet another method is to plug a card reader into the computer and then place the memory card from the camera into the memory card reader, and again use Windows Explorer to copy or move the pictures.

There are too many factors to give a simple answer. Here is a list of questions you need to ask youself: How am I going to use the GPS? Am I going to use it primarily for car trips? Will it be used for hiking or boating? Does it need to be portable, and if so, how portable? What am I willing to spend to purchase one? Do I need the latest and greatest technology? Are push buttons or a wheel fine for controlling the system or would a touch screen make it easier for me? Do I want all of the local maps already installed, or could I suffice with major roads being already loaded and loading detailed maps as I need them?

The first thing I would do is let them know that if they use your computer, you have the right to know everything they are doing on it. You could then install software such as IamBigBrother, eBlaster, or PC Tattletale.

Take a look at Clif's Kids Korner on CliftonPark.org. They have book reviews, crafts, recipes, jokes, games, homework help and a place just for parents.

Determine your budget. The best radar detectors cost around $300.00 and up.

Determine if you want a portable or wired system. A portable system eliminates the necessity of having to plug or connect the radar detector into your cars electrical system. A wired system has much greater range. It is a good idea to have spare batteries in your car if you decide to go with a portable unit.

Will you be using this on a motorcycle? If so Escort, Bell and Valentine are good choices as there are motorcycle specific accessories for those units.

Do you want the unit to be hidden or will a windshield or visor mount work for you? Do you want your radar detector to have complete invisibility? If so, the Bell Sti meets those requirements. Remember, a radar detector is just that. It does not jam radar or laser, it simply provides you with a signal indicating a radar or laser gun is in the area.

Following is a list of some of the IM codes.

5: Wait a Few Minutes to Speak (parent or guardian in room)
55: The Coast is Clear
ADR: What is your Address
ASL A/S/L (R P): What is your Age Sex Location (Race / Picture)
BF: Boyfriend
GF: Girlfriend
CD9: Code 9 Parents Are Around
GAP: Got A Picture
GNOC: Get Naked On Cam
CTN: Can't Talk Now
HAK: Hugs and Kisses
ILU or ILY: I Love You
IPN: I'm Posting Naked
KPC: Keeping Parents Clueless
LMIRL: Lets Meet In Real Life
MMOS: Members Of The Opposite Sex
MorF: Male Or Female
MOS: Mom Over Shoulder
NIFOC: Naked In Front Of Computer
P911: Parent Emergency
PAW: Parents Are Watching
PIR: Parent In Room
POS: Parent Over Shoulder
POP: Parent On the Prowl, can't speak openly
PDA: Public Display of Affection
PHAT: Pretty Hot And Tempting
PM: Private Message
PRON: Porn
PRW: Parents Are Watching
PUA: Pick Up Artist
RUMORF: Are You Male Or Female
S2R: Send To Receive (Pictures)
SX: Sex
TDTM: Talk Dirty To Me
TLF: True Love Forever
WUF: Where Are You From
WYCM: Will You Call Me
WYRN: What’s Your Real Name