Small Business Tech

All of the news about Google this week has been Google Sites and Google Health. A new feature added to Google Docs has me excited. They now have an option to have a spreadsheet filled via an online form. If you need to conduct a simple survey or plan a potluck dinner or any task where you need multiple user input this is a great tool. You can see an example here.

A form is very easy to setup...

• Create a new Google spreadsheet in Google Docs
• Enter form questions along row A
• Save your spreadsheet
  
• Click the "share" tab on the right hand side
• Click the radio button for Live Form
• You are now able to enter a list of email recipients as well arrange and edit your questions.
• The interface even allows you to create multiple choice questions, etc.

Your spreadsheet will now fill with data provided by your recipients. Google will also send you an email alerting you as forms are filled.

Labels: email, Google, productivity

The reality of this device is not quite as nice as you might image from the title, but the Jerk Stopper could save you a lot of money and trouble. The Jerk Stopper is a simple solution for a problem that should not even exist.

The goal of the Jerk Stopper is to limit the damage to power plugs in notebook computers. I have seen many notebook computers with power plug damage due to someone tripping over a power cord and ripping the outlet from the computer. Most of the time the damage is extensive because manufacturers generally directly solder the plug to the computer main board.

The installation of device is simple. You thread the power cable through the U-shaped groove and snap the two pieces together. You then install the device into an available USB or RJ-45 jack. The premise is that the RJ-45 or USB jack are much stronger than the power inlet. The cost for this device is low at just $9.95.

It is not right that it should not be necessary to purchase an extra device to protect your notebook computer. Some manufacturers have taken the step to create right-angle power plugs which offers a big more protection than straight-in connectors. More needs to be done by notebook computer builders to provide better connectors and strain-relief designs. Until they do it there is the Jerk Stopper.

By the way, one manufacturer has created a solution with mixed review. Some Apple notebook computers have a magnetic connector that simply pops away when the cord is tugged. There are complaints that the cord falls off of the computer, but it is better than the alternative.

Labels: Apple, notebook computer

A couple of weeks ago we posted an article about extra maintenance for notebook computers. Someone dropped me a line and pointed out the importance of using a surge protector with your notebook computer. I think that because they are battery powered, we forget about the very important surge protection while they are plugged into an outlet. This goes for not only using but also charging our notebooks.

Fortunately there are numerous options. I you search for "notebook surge" on Amazon.com you will find up to three pages of entries. The average price runs from $10 to $20. Be sure to choose a model that offers insurance in the same way that you choose a surge protector for any other electronic appliance.

Another good tip is to go ahead and unplug your notebook during lightening storms. Most notebook batteries should last longer than a typical thunderstorm.

Labels: lightening, maintenance, notebook computer, surge protectors, UPS

There could be soon even more reasons for road warriors to celebrate. Road warriors in white collar jobs have been liberated by notebook computers, cell phones, GPS, and mobile Internet access.

Many of these tools do not translate well for blue collar service workers. Blue collar service workers have been in need for industry specific tools that they can use in a harsh environment. Ford is changing that in their upcoming F-series trucks...




Hat tip to Winding Road.

Labels: automobile, Ford, Microsoft