Tuesday, November 11, 2008

View PDF Files – Save on RAM

For years I used Adobe Reader to view “pdf” files. It uses a lot of RAM and if, like me, you’re using an older computer (5+ years old) with a limited amount of RAM, sometimes the computer will crash if too many windows are open at one time.

A year or so ago, I discovered this free piece of software which doesn’t use a lot of RAM and the user also has the capability of filling forms in and printing or saving them with no additional charge. This free pdf reader is called “Foxit”. There is a paid version as well. The free version works perfectly well for viewing. Forms fill in works well too. Saving a completed form will apply some markings to the document using the free version.

Foxit Software has its own website: http://www.foxitsoftware.com/pdf/rd_intro.php or you can download it for free from http://www.download.com/Foxit-Reader/3000-2079_4-10313206.html.

I recommend you remove Adobe Reader from your system before installing Foxit. Tomorrow, I will share another free software program I use daily which helps keep my system cleaned up of useless junk and extra registry information without having to be an expert at the removal of either.

Sunday, November 2, 2008

Need an MP3 Player at Reasonable Cost?

I wanted an MP3 player but wasn't sure if I could justify the cost of an Ipod or other $100-plus piece of electronics. My son introduced me to this terrific little player that costs less than $50 from Amazon and includes software. It is 2 gigs and I have had hundreds of songs as well as several audio books loaded onto it and still have room to save a quick document or other file that I may need to bring home from work or visa versa.

It is easy to use and one can either load the software for the device from the software CD that is included or use your computer plug & play and the system will identify the device as a removable disk. Plug into your computer via the USB drive. The cover easily slides on and off.

This MP3 player takes only one AAA battery and plays approximately 9 hours before replacement is needed. If you are using rechargeable batteries, this will save money as well.

I am a boomer so am crawling into the 21st century a step at a time. I drive an older car that I bought new about 15 years ago and don't have a CD player installed -- just the cassette/AM/FM that came with the car. I use the tape adapter from an older CD player I no longer have and plug it into this little player. The sound is amazing! I'm then set for a long drive either listening to an audio book or my huge file of MP3s.

In addition to MP3s, one can also upload *.wav files which will play. I've used this player in conjunction with my subscription to Audible.

Let me know what you think if you own one of these small wonders. If you don't own one but decide to buy one, let me know how it works for you :).










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