More on Technology

Recent challenges on the computer front are shown below and how they were handled or resolved.

1.      Printer Ink: when I learned the computer supply store that supplied my printer ink had closed, I searched for other stores and even visited Best Buy. The latter made a good try, but I resorted to an internet search. Found a supplier with fast delivery and their pricing was very competitive with what I had been paying in past years. Determining the right product to match my printer model was another level of angst. But I made a best guess stab, and it was the right one! Solved: three big cartridges for $17 each. Thousands of copies each so I should be in good shape for many months. And the refills will be easily ordered.

2.      Using Rocky’s much newer Lenovo computer to replace my 10-year-old laptop for high production activity was accomplished by my eldest granddaughter. She did great. It functioned quite well. The old laptop was reconfigured for backup use and standalone projects. I may even use it remotely! What a concept. That machine is working smoothly, quickly and superbly. I am amazed it is still working well. That’s a Dell for you!

3.      Wi-Fi Connection Failed: I worried about this for several days and finally slept on it productively. That means that around 2 am one morning, I awoke with an aha and uttered aloud, "Settings." Getting up at the normal time, I opened the computer, went to settings and tried Wi-Fi and internet connections. It worked. Almost instantly. Everything is now back online and humming.

4.      New computer configuration with Lenovo slowed to a bare grind. I tried everything but nothing worked. Finally called my granddaughter again and she came out on Saturday. She wondered if re-booting would do the trick. She figured out how to do that – I couldn’t remember the how of that! – and voila! The system rebooted, is fast and responsive. It opens quickly, too. Problem solved.

It is all good news. I am very happy. I am humbled with the realization that I have forgotten more than what I had learned over the years. With age, I am worrying about failing with technology. I should not be worried about it. Solutions are easier to acquire. Given time, I remember what to do, as well. My confidence is making a comeback.

Still, I couldn’t have done any of the above without support from family and friends. And a very smart granddaughter!!!  Thank God for all of their help.

September 6, 2024

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