.ZIP FILE

How do I … use my screensaver as an RSS feed reader?

We’ve been accused of ignoring Mac users in dealing with tech solutions. Let’s fix that.

The Mac OS X 10.4 or 10.5 operating systems can be used to provide a steady stream of news, Facebook updates and sports scores.

Go to System Preferences and click on Desktop and Screen Saver icon. Then choose the Screen Saver tab. You can then choose RSS Visualizer and click the Options button to select a news feed to display when the screensaver kicks on.

Windows users can find a number of shareware programs around the Web that do the same thing, including NuParadigm’s free RSS Screensaver software at www. nuparadigm.com/ Products/Toys/ RssScreensaver.

 

Jargon 2.0: Barnstar (n.) The word refers to a Wikipedia system for rewarding contributors who’ve made a significant contribution. They are designed to promote civility and WikiLove.

 

Tech toolbox: Some malware or viruses not only mess with your system files (hijacking a browser or adding crud to the startup group), they also prevent you from downloading files that can remove the offending program. That’s why we recommend carrying a USB drive containing a handful of malware removers.

The list is open to debate, but we’d recommend these as essential tools: Ad-Aware 2008, Malwarebyte’s Anti-Malware, Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool and Hijack This!

That’s a basic group and would let you get rid of most of the common nuisances. If you can add Spybot Search & Destroy, that would help.

Before you put this PC life vest in a safe place, be sure to use your best anti-virus checker and check every file on the thumb drive. It would be a shame if any virus snuck onto the very tool you plan to use to rid yourself of a threat.

 

Video Challenge No. 26: (The final one.) A YouTube video called “Chelan Eagle Kill” will be a challenge indeed, unless you know your central Washington geography. The video, at www. youtube.com/ watch?v=evD_ bsNG4DQ — includes occasional views of a large red “D” on the opposite shore of Lake Chelan. What does the letter D stand for?

As always, first one in with the right answer gets a $5 coffee card. Send replies to TXT@ spokesman.com. Past winners are not eligible.