Chris Capelle

Macintosh Computer &

Apple Products Expert

December 2024 Infoletter

www.chriscapelle.com

chris@chriscapelle.com

203.451.1377 (cell/text)

Keeping Your Files Organized

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Keeping your files organized on your computer is as important as keeping stuff organized in your home; it’s good to follow the “a place for everything and everything in its place” as Benjamin Franklin said a few years ago. Ergo, sticking every file you have on your desktop is a dangerous road to travel. Knowing where to store your files (and how to easily access them) is key.


But – I’m often asked about the best way to organize computer files. I’m no digital hoarder, but I’m not a minimalist either. (There is a happy medium!)



Want to know how I handle this part of my life? Then read on!

The Art of Archiving

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As aptly described in the above section, I keep my files neat and orderly. Of course, every now and then I have to archive some files that are no longer necessary to keep on my computer but need a copy of. Taxes, for example. Also, work information. And a few others.


But – where do I keep it and how do I keep it safe?


As you all know, I’m a big proponent of backing up my computer using Apple’s built-in Time Machine software. (I use iCloud as well.) But – that’s just a backup, in case something goes wrong. I don’t rely on my backup drive to store my archives, so I have a few small external SSDs (solid state drives), that I keep in a fireproof safe. I back up my vital folders periodically, which includes my master file cabinet folder (currently called 2024), photos, music, and other folders that I would want to save in case of a tech disaster on my computer.


So, next January 1st, I’ll back up my entire master folder and rename it 2025. Then I’ll trash anything that I don’t need in my 2025 folder (remember, I have redundant backups stored safely) and start all over again. I do have access to all my archives from previous years, so I have that going for me, which is nice. 

December's Quick Tip: Keep Your Work Area Spill-Free!

Quick Tip

I have a rule that I always follow: No eating at my desk!

However, that rule doesn't include drinking (water, anyway) at my desk, because I spend a lot of time there (writing this newsletter for you!) and I find it important to stay hydrated.


So how do I keep my work area spill-free?


I use clear plastic tumblers for my water - ones with lids and straws. That way, if there IS a clumsiness issue, there won't be a potentially expensive tech disaster. I'm not a coffee drinker, but there are all sorts of spill-free containers available that will handle hot liquids for those java fans.


* In my career, I have had only one spill situation - years ago, a bottle of SoBe Zen Blend tea ruined the keyboard of my iMac. (But my computer was spared!)

Don't let this happen to you! Use a drinking vessel that avoids this type of catastrophe.

The iPhone 16 Chronicles Vol. 2: The Camera Control

For the second installment of the new iPhone 16 features, I’m going to explain the Camera Control button. (Sorry, but the AI – Apple Intelligence features – won’t be released until later this month, when iOS 18.2 drops.)


On the right side (while looking at the screen) of your iPhone 16, about two thirds of way down, is a new button – the Camera Control. In short, it allows you to quickly open your camera app (even when your screen is locked) and bypass the fumbling around your home screen if you want to take a picture quickly. (However, the bobcat I saw at my race this morning was too fast for even Camera Control.)


Something that is important to know - I’m not a “camera guy,” meaning anything beyond zoom is mumbo jumbo to me – so check out Apple’s page on its site, which lists all the options you have there. That page can be reached in the links section below.



Next month: Explaining the AI (Apple Intelligence – finally!) features in iOS 18.2.

News You Can Use!

Happenings in the Apple and tech world that will no doubt impact you!


🎄 It seems that it's all about Black Friday and Cyber Monday this year. Actually, it's all one and the same these days - I'm sure you're getting as many (or more) emails on this than I am. Just be sure to check the "normal" prices to make sure you're not paying standard price for a hyped-up, made-up holiday event...


 On December 18th (the 132nd anniversary of the debut of Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker), Apple will no longer back up its devices running iOS 8 or earlier via iCloud. (BTW, that means iPhone 4s and iPad 2 or earlier models.) Unless you're working with legacy tech, nothing to see here!


💸 If you're concerned about tariffs and your future purchases of Apple products, it may not be as horrendous as the pundits hype it up to be. Check out this piece on Bloomberg for a level-headed view of this subject.

Photo of the month…

The Macintosh SE/30 (1989-1991). Retail price? $4369. That's over $11,000 in 2024 dollars!

Nine Helpful and (Hopefully) Fun Links for December 2024!

Computer Hall of Fame: The Macintosh SE/30


R.I.P. Elwood "You've Got Mail!" Edwards


Apple: Use The Camera Control on iPhone 16


Amazon: Cyber Monday Deals!


EasyFind: The Best File Search App (Better Than Apple's Search!)


Amazon: Maars Skinny 18 oz. Tumbler w/Lid & Straw


Sobe Zen Blend: Best Bottled Tea EVER! (Sadly discontinued...)


My Next Desktop Computer


40 Years Ago! Billboard Top 100 Songs: 12/1/84

Time Waits For No One: Links to My Past Six Newsletters!

• November 2024

• October 2024

• September 2024

• August 2024

• July 2024

• June 2024

🦃 This month's background picture: 5K race, Thompson, CT November 10, 2024

Like what you're seeing here? (Or not?) Learning something new, or simply being entertained? Want to see more (or less) things here? Then send me your thoughts - the good, bad, and the ugly.


Also - I'm looking to expand my newsletter to new users - so, if you have any friends, family members, business associates, or anybody who might benefit from this gem delivered in your inbox on the first of every month, let me know.

Chris Capelle

Macintosh Computer &

Apple Products Expert

P.O. Box 7512

Wilton, CT 06897

203.451.1377 (cell/text)


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