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       BIOS upgrade….  56 kps Modems….  OS2….  NT 4.0….  Multi Media….   Networking….  Unix.  Operating Systems….  Web servers….  The Year 2000 Problem.
    Mind-boggling terms.
    Is it possible to keep current with technology and be practical?
    The hard drive prices keep dropping—are you going to rush to the computer store after work and stock up on a few?
    Yes, we can get the job done with that Selectric (an old typewriter), a 386,  or a cool pen and pad of paper depending on what the job is.
    Knowledge is power, thus you need to understand what your requirements really are.
    Here are some questions that you need to ask yourself :
 

• What kind of speed do I really need?

    Does your home computer run too slow?
    Marketing and media make us feel insecure with our “antique” three-month-old workstations telling us we can't live without the latest and greatest multimedia, 300 megahertz Pentium Pro II and
21-inch monitor.
    Are you limited by hardware or software?  Do you really need that Monster Truck application or that zip drive (storage device) after all?
    Knowing what your requirements are will prevent you from buying an expensive toy.
 

• Should I buy the latest technology now?

    New next month: the “Gigium,” (fictitious computer) many times faster and better than a Pentium! Should I wait to buy?
Do you really need it? Like cars, there will always be something new and expensive.  My source from a major consulting firm advises his clients to buy technology based on their needs and not to allow technology to drive what their needs really are.
 

• Yes, but isn't it smart to think ahead?

    Be “forward thinking”.  Buy or position yourself for future growth.  The newspapers scream "Buy 56k modems now!”  Should you?  The smart thing to do is position yourself with hardware and software that will continue to grow into better products.  Several modem manufacturers can upgrade your modems with a simple software patch.
 

• Now that I have this thing, how does it work?

    Your computer locks up when you quickly switch applications or mouse click too fast.  The fix could be a simple change to an “ini” setting on the computer, but you live with frustration since you do not understand “ini files”.
    When talking to technical support they tell you to reboot.  Do you know the difference between soft boot and  hard boot?    The soft boot has been called the three finger salute: "Ctl-Alt-Del."  In frustration, the one finger salute is appropriate—push the reset button or the power button to off (Note: you should strive to do a proper shut down whenever possible).
 

• When you hear new computer terms such as those listed in the beginning of this column, do you know where to look for answers?
• Are you determined to spend your valuable time and money on an expensive class or have you tried:
• Picking up a computer magazine such as Smart Computing Magazine (formerly called PC Novice).  This particular one offers basic information with terms and definitions.
• Using your web browser to post a question or comment to any of the invaluable on-line news groups?  These groups can provide answers to your technical questions through FAQs or on line posts within 24 hours.
• To find answers through the Internet, on-line services, computer user groups and email?

The above suggestions can save you money, time and worry.  Future columns will address the above questions, resources and your common frustrations.