Episode 68: Computer, Initiate Auto-Destruct Sequence

Hi Everyone,

Okay, you’re at the Apple store and they want you to press the "Erase All Data" button and you start to panic. Horrible thoughts start flying through your head...am I going to lose my contacts, my photos, or even worst, my high score in Bejeweled? Breath in...breath out...and let’s talk about today’s tip of the day.

Backup: Restore from backup
I can’t emphasize the importance of backing up your mobile device. I know that some of you out there (I’m not going to point fingers, but he occasionally rides his bike to work) have not taken these steps to protect your data and lost information, photos, etc. Download iTunes to your computer and plug in your iPhone/iPad. It can’t get any easier. Select the "Summary" tab. to view your last backup. If you don’t sync to a computer, make sure that you setup your iCloud account (Settings\iCloud). Now if you have to press the "Erase All Data" at the Apple store, you can restore your device to the last saved backup. You can with confidence initiate auto-destruct sequence.

Signature: "Sent from my iPhone"
Have you see what others see when you email them from your mobile device? "Sent from my iPhone,iPad, HTC device"... and so on. On your iOS device, go to Settings\Mail.Contacts,Calendars\Signature to create signatures for all or each of your accounts. I use a separate signature for my personal and work email.

External Battery: Can’t reach the plug
How many times have you gone to an workshop and ran out of battery? Now you have to look for a plug...it’s too far from my table...someone is already using it...you get the picture. Did you know that they make portable external batteries that can power all your USB devices? If you get one with a dual output, you can help a friend or make a new friend at the table. Just plug it in to extend your battery or use it to charge your device. They can range from $10-$150. When you look at the top end of the range, you’re paying for a label. I bought a 9000mAh at monoprice.com for $40. It will fully charge an iPad or charge your iPhone 4-5 times. Great for those looooong flights across the pacific (Hafa Adai). Oh, here’s an added bonus. You won’t leave behind your iPad plugged into the wall. Yes, I collected two at our last workshop.

Hope you enjoy these tips. Don’t forget, if you have a great tip or app, pass it on.