February 28 2005
Q: I use ALT + TAB combination for manuvering between my open windows, but I have to stop and use my mouse when I get into programs that have windows inside them like QuickBooks and ACT!.  Is there a way a similar key combination that will allow me to manuver within the open windows in these programs?
A: Yes. In QuickBooks and ACT! 6.0 all you need to do is press CTRL + Tab. 

These program have windows within their main window.  For example, ACT! will have Contacts, Calendar, and To-dos while QuickBooks, you will have Account List, Vendors, Invoices etc.

I noticed that this tip won't work with the latest versions of ACT! (2005-2006), but it will likely work with other programs. You will just have to do a little experimenting to find out all the ones which do.

February 21 2005
Q: Is there a faster way to reschedule my Appointment in Outlook than opening the meeting and entering in the new day & time?
A: Yes, you can just drag and drop the Appointment/Meeting to the new date.  Here's how:

In Outlook:
1. Open your Calendar folder
2. Find the Appointment you want to reschedule
3. Click once on the Appointment to select/highlight it
-It is outlined in blue
4. Click on the left vertical blue margin of the Appointment and drag it to the new time within the same day or onto the new day in the mini Calendar.

February 14 2005
Q: What is Bluetooth?
A:  Bluetooth is actually the name for a wireless radio communication standard used by electronic device manufacturers. The devices include computers, cell phones, printers, PDAs, TVs, and even cars!

The Bluetooth standard enables devices to talk to each other without the need for a physical connection. You simply have to be within about 33 feet of the device you want to 'talk' to. Since cell phones seem to be touting Bluetooth the most, let me share with you how it can be used:

Say you use an ear-piece for your cell phone.  You probably have hassled with de-tangling it from your pocket or purse just to answer a call.

Well if your cell phone is equipped with Bluetooth, you can purchase Bluetooth earpiece and setup the two to communicate with each other wirelessly. What this means is that as long as your cell phone and earpiece are within range you can answer and make calls without even touching your phone!

Now car makers are starting to equip their cars with Bluetooth. What this means is that you can receive or even make a call (to anyone on stored on your cell phone) using the hands-free system in the vehicle even if your phone is in the trunk!

February 7 2005
Q: When I am looking for an email in my Inbox in Outlook, sometimes I need to open my Contact folder to look up an important contact.  When I go back, I loose the spot I was in in my Inbox.  How can I keep this from happening?
A: You can avoid this minor frustration by opening a separate window for your Inbox.  Here's how you do it:

-In Outlook
1. Right Click on the Folder you want to open in a new window
-You can even Right Click on the short-cut buttons at the lower left-hand side of Outlook in the 2003 version
2. Select ‘Open in New Window’
Note: You can actually open several windows at the same time!