Past Computer Guy Shows

Week Beginning February 15, 2010
Norton Security Suite: Free for Comcast Customers

Comcast customers can now get Norton™ Security Suite powered by Norton 360 Technology. It protects your computer, files and identity without slowing you down. Plus, get award winning OnlineFamily.Norton to safeguard your kids online -- a $160 dollar value at no additional cost with your Comcast high-speed internet subscription.

Host Jamey Mellis demonstrates the proper way to download and install this security suite. Also, the Computer Guy highlights some of its many components and features including: PC Security (e.g., Norton Insight and Scan) and PC Tuneup (e.g., Identity Protection and Backup).

Week Beginning February 8, 2010
Threats of Infection: Beware of Malware

The Computer Guy, Jamey Mellis, reminds you about the hidden dangers of using your computer without the proper defenses against the various threats including rogue anti-malware, keyloggers, rootkits and more.

Bonus tip! Learn the recommended way to safely close a window displaying a fake virus warning.

Week Beginning February 1, 2010
Ransomware: Cracking the Encryption Key

This week, Jamey Mellis shows you how to recover from this increasingly common form of malware, Ransomware. He demonstrates the proper way to back up data and files whether you're using Windows XP, Vista or Windows 7.

And, for home users, don't miss the Computer Guy's recommendation of the free, internet-based product, Belarc Advisor.

Week Beginning January 25, 2010
Internet: Surfing Safely

When it comes to your non-Microsoft add-ons for Windows, such as those from Adobe (including Reader, Flash Player and Shockwave Player) and Java, make sure your computer is up-to-date. To analyze your computer's update status, use the free security tool, Personal Software Inspector, from Secunia. And, when conducting searches on the web, see the safety ratings of the results with the help of another free application, McAfee SiteAdvisor.

Bonus tip! Let the Computer Guy show you how to tweak your Internet browser settings for enhanced performance.

Week Beginning January 18, 2010
Software Vulnerabilities

Let the Computer Guy guide you through the vast minefield of software vulnerabilities. Outfit your computer with all the latest updates from Microsoft; Adobe (including Reader, Flash Player and Shockwave Player); and Java. To determine if updates are available, be sure to turn on Automatic Updates (Windows) and utilize the free (for home users) Personal Software Inspector from Secunia. Finally, when conducting searches on the web, do so safely with McAfee SiteAdvisor.

And, don't miss Jamey's important reminder about how to avoid inadvertently installing those performance-dragging toolbars.

Week Beginning January 11, 2010
Beware: Fake Virus Alerts

Host Jamey Mellis reminds viewers how to safely avoid keyloggers, viruses and other malware including one of today's most common threats, rogue (fake) antivirus programs. For more information about this ever-increasing threat, read on: [ARTICLE] FTC Goes After Scareware Vendors; also, from Microsoft Security: Watch out for fake virus alerts. Bonus tip! Rather than clicking anywhere inside a suspicious popup, close it safely via the keyboard shortcut, Alt+F4.

Week Beginning January 4, 2010
Backup/Transfer Data: Old Computer-to-New Computer

Last week, host Jamey Mellis addressed items about new computers that arrive over the holidays. This week, the Computer Guy tells you how to backup and safely transfer your data (including forgotten or missing files), and properly dispose of your old computer. Also, he reminds you about the proper care of storage media, such as CD/DVDs, thumb drives and external hard drives, as well as other devices such as memory cards and cell phones. And, be on the lookout for his important tip if you have multiple Profiles on your computer.

Week Beginning December 28, 2009
New Computer Checklist

Often accompanying the holidays is the arrival of a new computer. Host Jamey Mellis wants you to have a safe and enjoyable computing experience. So, check his list to make sure your new computer gets off to the proper start with all the appropriate updates and security measures in place, such as Microsoft/Windows Updates; Office Updates; Anti-Virus software (from Microsoft) Security Essentials or (if you're a Comcast High-Speed Internet subscriber) McAfee Security Suite; firewall protection; Microsoft Online Safety; Adobe; and Java.

Week Beginning December 21, 2009
iPhone apps/Charleston Tours

Join Jamey Mellis and long-time tour guide, Tommy Dew, as they take you on a tour of the city of Charleston via your Apple iPhone. Charleston City Slicker is recognized by Apple as the first self-guided walking tour for the iPhone, and selected it as "Staff Favorite" and "Pick of the Week." Check out the following link to find out more about City Slicker Self-Guided iPhone Walking Tours. And for more information about iPhone apps visit Slicker.

Week Beginning December 7, 2009
Microsoft: Security Essentials and Windows 7

Host Jamey Mellis adds to his previous discussion about the new antivirus software from Microsoft, Security Essentials. [For introduction, see "Week Beginning October 5, 2009".]
BONUS! Though this program can be downloaded/installed via alternate browser, Firefox, see why it's advantageous to do so via Microsoft's Internet Explorer. Also, the Computer Guy reminds viewers about this week's impending release of Microsoft's new OS (Operating System), Windows 7. Learn all about upgrade options from the PC Pitstop Readiness Center.

Week Beginning November 30, 2009
iPhone apps/Charleston Tours

Join Jamey Mellis and long-time tour guide, Tommy Dew, as they take you on a tour of the city of Charleston via your Apple iPhone. Charleston City Slicker is recognized by Apple as the first self-guided walking tour for the iPhone, and selected it as "Staff Favorite" and "Pick of the Week." Check out the following link to find out more about City Slicker Self-Guided iPhone Walking Tours. And for more information about iPhone apps visit Slicker.

Week Beginning November 23, 2009
Computers: Types and Specs

As we get in to the holiday shopping season following Microsoft's recent release of their newest Operating System (OS), Windows 7, many questions arise as to what specific type of computer would be best purchase. Questions such as: desktop computer or a laptop computer? ... netbook or notebook? ... desktop or deskbook? ... 32 bit or 64 bit OS? Host Jamey Mellis discusses the differences to help viewers sort it all out.

Also, the Computer Guy reminds viewers of the upcoming Windows 7 computer/monitor giveaway during the Saturday 12/05/09 LIVE remote radio broadcast from Barnes & Noble Booksellers.

Week Beginning November 9, 2009
Microsoft Windows 7: Desktop

Host Jamey Mellis delivers Part II in a series of episodes designed to help viewers get the most out of Microsoft's recently-released Operating System, Windows 7. This week, the Computer Guy demonstrates some of the new features now available to Windows users. Learn how to "Snap", cycle through programs on the taskbar by using Aero Flip 3-D, personalize your computer, and finally, check out the improvements in Gadgets.

BONUS! Find out how Comcast subscribers can watch episodes of The Computer Guy for up to a month following their original air dates ... free .... via Comcast On Demand.

Week Beginning November 2, 2009
Microsoft Windows 7: Libraries

Host Jamey Mellis delivers Part I in a series of episodes designed to help the viewer get the most out of Microsoft's just-released Operating System, Windows 7. This week's program introduces viewers to a new concept, Libraries. Built into Windows 7, Libraries make it easier to find, work with, and organize files scattered across your PC or network. Tune in to the Computer Guy for tips on how to modify your settings to take advantage of this new feature. And, for more information, check out Microsoft's FAQs.

Week Beginning October 26, 2009
Protecting Your Children

In recognition of National Cyber Security Awareness Month, host Jamey Mellis welcomes back FBI Special Agent Cynthia McCants to inform and remind viewers of the potential risks and dangers their children face when surfing the web. Especially important, and something that many parents and children are unaware of, is the consequence associated with their children's activity and behavior re: social networking sites such as Facebook and MySpace. To reach the FBI in Columbia, SC, call (803) 551-4200. For tips, more information or to report a crime, visit the following websites: FBI, Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or OnGuardOnline.

Week Beginning October 19, 2009
Microsoft: Security Essentials and Windows 7

Host Jamey Mellis adds to his previous discussion about the new antivirus software from Microsoft, Security Essentials. [For introduction, see "Week Beginning October 5, 2009".]
BONUS! Though this program can be downloaded/installed via alternate browser, Firefox, see why it's advantageous to do so via Microsoft's Internet Explorer. Also, the Computer Guy reminds viewers about this week's impending release of Microsoft's new OS (Operating System), Windows 7. Learn all about upgrade options from the PC Pitstop Readiness Center.

Week Beginning October 12, 2009
Going Green

Tune in to let Jamey Mellis teach you about savings re: your computer's and monitor's energy, as well as preserving your laptop battery via Power Management. Whether you're an XP user or a Vista user, utilize the many customizable settings available. Right click for Properties (Windows XP) or to Personalize (Windows Vista) your equipment's settings. Or access the Power Options via the Control Panel with Add or Remove Programs (Windows XP) or Programs and Features (Windows Vista). BONUS! For added safety, security and peace of mind, don't miss the Computer Guy's explanation of the value and proper way to use a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply).

Week Beginning October 5, 2009
Antivirus Protection by Microsoft

This week, host Jamey Mellis introduces viewers to the newly released antivirus software from Microsoft, Security Essentials. It provides real-time protection for your home PC that guards against viruses, spyware, and other malicious software. Microsoft Security Essentials is a free* download that is simple to install, easy to use, and always kept up-to-date so you can be assured your PC is protected by the latest technology. The Computer Guy guides you through some of the various settings to help you customize your protection.

* To install Microsoft Security Essentials, your PC must run genuine Windows.

Week Beginning September 28, 2009
Alternate Browser: Firefox

For most people, Microsoft's Internet Explorer is synonymous with web browsing. This week, host Jamey Mellis reminds viewers about the value of having an alternate browser, such as Firefox, on their computer. Discover some of the many plugins available including Adblock Plus, Flashblock and NoScript. BONUS! For added security when performing Searches, whether you're browsing with Internet Explorer or Firefox, don't miss the Computer Guy's demonstration of McAfee SiteAdvisor.

Week Beginning September 21, 2009
Comcast: Business Product Services

This week, Jamey welcomes back guest Minor Jones, representative for Comcast Business Class: Internet, Phone and TV for Business. For more information about Business Class Services (Business Phone, Broadband Internet, TV, and Ethernet Data Service from Comcast), to get "THE RIGHT TOOLS FOR YOUR BUSINESS," call (843) 266-3045.

Week Beginning September 14, 2009
Online Security via the FBI

This week's program, recorded on the 8th anniversary of the tragic events of 9/11, reunites viewers with cyber-security expert, Dave Thomas, Special Agent in Charge for the FBI. SAC Thomas revisits the Computer Guy to bring us up-to-date on the most current cyber security threats we face, and tells us how to help prevent ourselves from becoming a victim. If you need to report suspicious or criminal online behavior or if you need to file a claim, visit the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). From this site, you can also access Internet Crime Prevention Tips as well as obtain information on current Internet Crime Schemes.

Week Beginning September 7 2009
Microsoft Outlook: Contacts

This week in Part 2 of the series, the Computer Guy continues with the Contacts section of Microsoft Office Outlook 2007 by illustrating some of its most useful features. Learn how these many components (including E-mail, Map and Web page address) can simplify the management of all your Contact information.

Week Beginning August 31, 2009
Microsoft Outlook

Microsoft Office Outlook 2007 provides an integrated solution for managing your time and information, connecting across boundaries, and remaining in control of the information that reaches you. Office Outlook 2007 delivers innovations you can use to quickly search your communications, organize your work, and better share your information with others -- all from one place. In this first in a series of lessons on Outlook, host Jamey Mellis shows you how to set up your e-mail account(s) within Outlook. Tune in next week as the Computer Guy continues his demonstrations of other components of this application including Calendar, Contacts and Tasks (To Do).

Week Beginning August 24, 2009
Performance Tips

Want some more pep out of your PC's performance? Host Jamey Mellis tells you how to handle your computer's worst environmental enemies, such as, heat & dust. Get guidance from Belarc Advisor, and finally, if you're a Windows Vista user looking to improve performance without having to add additional memory "under the hood", use Windows ReadyBoost. The Computer Guy shows you how!

Week Beginning August 17, 2009
Storm Tracking

This week, the height of the 2009 Hurricane Season gets underway as activity increases in the Atlantic with its first three named storms: Ana, Bill and Claudette. Pay close attention as the Computer Guy teaches you the ABCs of storm tracking with Stormpulse. This website serves well to supplement your other regular sources of local weather news and updates. Host Jamey Mellis provides a variety of additional websites for all your planning and preparation needs during the hurricane season: South Carolina Emergency Management Division, Charleston County Government, South Carolina Emergency Traffic Network, South Carolina Department of Transportation, National Weather Service, National Hurricane Center, FEMA and the American Red Cross.

Week Beginning August 10, 2009
Google Chrome

If you're looking for an alternate browser for your computer, consider Chrome. As the makers of Chrome, Google calls it "A browser built for speed, stability and security." Start exploring this browser's many features, such as: searching from the address bar; or, safe browsing via Incognito mode. Learn more about Google Chrome.

Week Beginning August 3, 2009
Computer Maintenance

This week, the Computer Guy leaves the studio behind to take his show on the road airing from Barnes & Noble booksellers in Charleston. Host, Jamey Mellis, guides you through recommended maintenance … in the proper order … designed to enhance your computer's performance by making it run more efficiently. Whether your system operates in Windows XP (Add or Remove Programs) or Windows Vista (Programs and Features), Jamey leads you in the step-by-step process which includes demonstrations of how to use Disk Cleanup and Disk Defragmenter. Learn how to tune up your computer by tuning in to The Computer Guy.

Week Beginning July 27, 2009
Viruses, Trojans and Bots … Oh, My!

The Computer Guy welcomes back guest, Randy Abrams, Director of Technical Education for ESET, makers of NOD32 Antivirus and Smart Security, to discuss the various types of malware threats facing computer users on a daily basis. Learn how to identify and treat Phishing attacks, prevent exploits of vulnerabilities and avoid becoming a victim of scams.

Week Beginning July 20, 2009
Spam … a Lot!

As spammers change their tactics, the Computer Guy introduces viewers to terms such as image-based spam and OCR (Optical Character Recognition). Even more so than other types of malware (e.g., viruses & Phishing), spam increasingly is finding its way into our e-mail folders at an alarming rate. To help combat this onslaught, host, Jamey Mellis, suggests some anti-spam techniques for people to consider including the use of spam-filtering products, iHateSpam and Cloudmark.

Week Beginning July 13, 2009
Startup

Located within your Start Menu amongst your Programs is the Startup folder. This is the key to determining which applications start (as well as which apps don't) when you boot up your computer. Watch host Jamey Mellis demonstrate how to ensure that applications of your choice (such as, MS Word, Outlook or even your browser's favorite website) launch automatically in Startup. And, if you'd like to prevent certain applications from opening and running during startup, the Computer Guy shows you how.

Week Beginning July 6, 2009
Microsoft Office Word 2007

This week's episode of The Computer Guy is a review of Microsoft's current version of its powerful Word Processing application, Word 2007. Whether via a demo or a tutorial, you'll find plenty of free training and other tools available when you visit the Help & How To section. Learn, for example, how to use the File Menu-replacing Ribbon, access the variety of ClipArt and the many Templates or see what other valuable Downloads, such as a Free Trial, are available in Microsoft Office 2007.

Week Beginning June 29, 2009
Create Your Own Shortcut Key Combinations

Host Jamey Mellis expands on last week's lesson (keyboard shortcuts) to show you how to create your own keyboard shortcuts, whether it's to launch your most frequently used applications or your favorite websites. Also, be sure to tune in for the Computer Guy's important BONUS tip about protecting your valuable equipment from power surges.

Week Beginning June 22, 2009
Windows Shortcut Keys

Looking for a fast and easy way to add functionality and perform commands … without using your mouse? Computer Guy host, Jamey Mellis, demonstrates with many of the most useful keyboard shortcuts. For a printer-friendly list containing dozens of shortcut key combinations to use in Windows as well as other applications, check out Windows Shortcut Keys.

Week Beginning June 15, 2009
Digital TV Transition

TV's much-delayed transition (switching from analog to digital signals) took affect this week, June 12. To ease you into this DTV transition, Computer Guy host Jamey Mellis provides a wealth of resources to help you "Get Ready". If you need more help or information, call any of the following phone numbers: (888) CALL FCC [(888) 225-5322], (888) 508-1115, or (888) 900-3881 or visit websites DTV.gov or DTV Answers. And, if you need to dispose of your TV, locate your nearest Recycling Center.

Week Beginning June 8, 2009
Bing … Microsoft's New Search Engine

When it comes to decisions that matter, Bing and Decide. Computer Guy host Jamey Mellis demonstrates how to utilize many of the helpful components in Microsoft's new search engine. Tour Bing to discover new ways to search. To get even more out of your searching experience, explore Bing.

Week Beginning June 1, 2009
Take Picture-Taking to Another Level

Computer Guy host Jamey Mellis demonstrates 2 free powerful programs to enhance your photographic experiences. Make show-&-tell cool again! Capture memories, bring photos to life and share your stories with Microsoft Photo Story 3 for Windows or turn your video memories into compelling videos with Windows Movie Maker. Also, be sure to tune in for the Computer Guy's important BONUS tip about your digital camera's memory card(s).

Week Beginning May 25, 2009
Surge Protection

In the event of a power surge, it's critical that your computer, monitor and peripheral devices (e.g., printer) as well as your data, are protected. Do you know the important difference between a power strip and a surge protector? Learn why and how you should use a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply). Discover HowStuffWorks.

Week Beginning May 18, 2009
Computer Performance

In time, your computer can become sluggish as its performance slows down due to a variety of reasons. Computer Guy host Jamey Mellis addresses the most common factors as he discusses the effects of memory, hard drive, and even heat & dust. Learn how to combine the use of handy tools, Belarc Advisor, Add or Remove Programs, Disk Cleanup and Kingston memory.

Week Beginning May 11, 2009
Windows DVD Maker

Available in Windows Vista Home Premium and Windows Vista Ultimate, Windows DVD Maker lets you create professional-looking video DVDs of your home movies and photos. Preview your DVD using the built-in DVD preview option, and then burn your video DVD. With just a few clicks, you can create a professional-looking video DVD to share with friends and family.

Week Beginning May 4, 2009
Use an older program with this version of Windows

Windows Vista, Microsoft's newest OS (Operating System), sometimes causes incompatibilities when using older programs. To address this issue, Computer Guy host Jamey Mellis first shows you how to select the appropriate view of the Control Panel. Then, he guides users through Vista's Program Compatibility Wizard.

Week Beginning April 27, 2009
Viewer E-Mail

This week, Computer Guy Jamey Mellis reads some viewer mail to address such issues as: Windows Mail (Vista)/Outlook Express (XP); Lock the Taskbar; Internet Explorer 8 including some of its new features, Compatibility View and Suggested Sites; KeyScrambler; and, last but not least, Jamey introduces viewers to Alexa.

Week Beginning April 20, 2009
Twitter

Computer Guy host Jamey Mellis is joined by guests Jared Smith and Heather Solos who demonstrate how to set up and use a Twitter account. Explore TwiTip for "Twitter Tips in 140 Characters or More." Also, learn how to use Twitter Search. Start tweeting today with Twitter.

Week Beginning April 13, 2009
Windows: 64-bit or 32-bit version

Today, more computers are equipped with the newer 64-bit version of Windows (vs. the older 32-bit version), but not all hardware and software will function in a 64-bit environment. Before buying a new computer, learn how to identify any potential incompatibilities re: your existing hardware/software. For example, you can determine Memory Limits for Windows Releases.

Week Beginning April 6, 2009
Skype

For free calls, video calls and instant messaging over the internet … plus great value calls to phones anywhere in the world … download Skype. Use VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) with or without a webcam or make calls over your cell phone. Computer Guy, Jamey Mellis, demonstrates the download/installation and set-up process to get you going with this free software.

Week Beginning March 30, 2009
Internet Explorer 8

Microsoft is "Making your web even better … Faster, Easier, Safer" with the newest version of its browser, Internet Explorer 8. Explore some of the many new features such as InPrivate Browsing, Accelerators, Compatibility View, Tabbed Groups, Domain Highlighting and SmartScreen Filtering. To find out more, be sure to take the tour.

Week Beginning March 23, 2009
Firefox

Firefox...with security, speed and new features that will change the way you use the Web. To personalize your browsing experience for safer, more secure web surfing, try some of this alternative browser's Add-ons which include: NoScript; Adblock Plus; and Flashblock.

Week Beginning March 16, 2009
Hosts Manager

Helping with another handy tip, host Mellis introduces viewers to HostsMan, a freeware hosts file manager and editor. Download and install this powerful program for enhanced safety while surfing the web.

Week Beginning March 9, 2009
Internet: Surfing Safely

Due to the ever-increasing threats to your security, users need to minimize such risks while on the Internet. OpenDNS is a very powerful, free service that works for networks of all sizes, from home networks to K-12 schools, SMBs and large enterprises. With web content filtering, anti-phishing, DNS infrastructure and navigation services, make your network safer, more secure and more reliable with OpenDNS.

Week Beginning March 2, 2009
Comcast Business Class

Whether your business is small, medium or large, Comcast offers unparalleled products with cost-saving plans to increase productivity. Representative Minor Jones talks about the Comcast "Triple Play," … Internet, Phone and Video, to help businesses cut their costs without cutting corners. For more information, call Comcast at (843) 266-3045 or visit them online to discover Comcast Business Class.

Week Beginning February 23, 2009
Folder Options

If you prefer the look or functionality of a previous Operating System, note that you have options … Folder Options (accessible via the Control Panel). Explore some of the many choices you have to make changes in the way your computer performs. And, don't worry if you can't remember your computer's original settings. Simply click on the Restore Defaults button.

Week Beginning February 10, 2009
Fake or Not

Is your hardware and software authentic or counterfeit? Computer Guy, Jamey Mellis, provides some useful tips and the following links to help you determine how to tell. Microsoft: How To Tell; Fake Not!: Computers & Networking.

Week Beginning February 3, 2009
What In The World Are Your Kids Doing Online?

Today, the World Wide Web is more exciting and richer than ever, but along with such benefits come certain risks … especially for children. Co-authors and therapists, Barbara Melton, M.Ed. and Susan Shankle, MSW, provide guidance as they join host, Jamey Mellis, to discuss their book, What In The World Are Your Kids Doing Online? Included in this episode of The Computer Guy are ways to identify and manage Cyberbullying as well as precautions to take with regard to Social Networking sites such as Facebook and MySpace. To learn more about safely surfing the web, visit http://www.barbarameltonlpc.com or contact this week's guests via e-mail at: bmelton@att.net or shanklemsw@msn.com.