HowStuffWorks Newsletter
Chris Pollette is the former tech editor for HowStuffWorks.com and the original co-host of the TechStuff podcast. He's written many articles on technology subjects as diverse as VPNs, Bluetooth and LEDs.
How can you check the version of Android on your tablet, and how do you update it? We have some simple steps.
A robot and a human being are made up of the same basic components. And with each passing decade, robots become more lifelike. Find out how robots operate and the marvelous things they're already doing.
By Tom Harris & Chris Pollette
Wireless mesh networks promise to deliver high-speed Internet connectivity anywhere, anytime. Find out when you would use them.
By Chris Pollette & Dave Roos
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Is anyone watching you now? If you have Bluetooth enabled on your smartphone, someone might know exactly where you are.
The microprocessor determines the processing power available for any application you run. Without it, there is no computer. Learn all about this amazing, ever-shrinking technology that makes your computer compute.
Whether they're sorting out scrap metal or helping us unlock the secrets of the universe, electromagnets are pretty nifty devices. What's so great about magnetism on demand? We'll electrify you with the details.
Yes, it's still around. Second Life is a 3D virtual world where you can live in a castle, fly to dance clubs and change your appearance with a click of your mouse. So what's up with it now?
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Electronic books have been out for years, though none of them met with much success — until the Amazon Kindle. What's so special about this little device?
The capacitor plays a crucial role in electronics. It stores electrons for when they're needed most, dumping a huge charge instead of a steady flow. How does it do it?
There is no great divide between Mac and Windows operating systems, thanks to Boot Camp. What does it take to install Windows on an Apple computer, and how does Boot Camp help you do it?
Chromecast is a tiny TV dongle that promises to bring you streaming media controlled via your mobile device. Can it compete with the rest of the streaming media market?
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Streaming video and audio have come a very long way since it was first introduced in the 1990s. In fact, millions of people have gotten rid of cable and rely on streaming only for entertainment.
Now almost anyone can be a disc jockey, talk show host or recording artist. Find out what tools you need to record and receive podcasts and see what industry analysts have to say about the future of podcasting.
By Stephanie Watson & Chris Pollette
Mac or PC? It's a question almost everybody has an opinion about. Or, are you wondering what the difference is? We've broken down these computers to reveal their strengths and weaknesses.
You're typing along on your laptop when, all of a sudden, your computer fades to black. What's causing your black screen and how do you fix it?
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You want to share what's on your screen with someone on email or through social media. But how do you do it? Microsoft Windows has several easy ways.
More people are using virtual private networks to establish secure communication over the internet, protecting their private information and allowing remote employees to connect to the private corporate networks.
By Jeff Tyson, Chris Pollette & Stephanie Crawford
On Feb. 17, 2009, TV sets in the United States will need a converter to watch local stations. Is your television ready for the switch?
Light emitting diodes form numbers on digital clocks, send data from remote controls and illuminate watches – the simple genius of the design makes it infinitely applicable. And now, LEDs are affordable.
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You know how you can program your smartphone to connect through your car speakers so you can talk hands-free? That's Bluetooth technology in action. Bluetooth allows electronic equipment to connect without wires. So how does it work?
The Xbox Live network gives players the opportunity to connect with thousands of other gaming enthusiasts online. What do users get out of the experience?
Mac fans always talk about how easy and intuitive Apple's OS is to use. Is it really that simple to uninstall programs on a Mac?
By Chris Pollette & John Kelly
Want to take a music video from YouTube and make it an audio file you can hear on the go? There's an app (or several apps) for that.
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You can replace your iPhone easily but what about its contents? That's why it's good to back them up. Here's how.
Tired of getting spam calls on your phone? You may wish to install an app like Nomorobo that says it can stop unwanted calls. But how does it work?