What’s New in Rep What’s New in Rep Business Technology?Business Technology?

Presentation by:Presentation by:Matt Pansing & Gary YantisMatt Pansing & Gary Yantis

Midtec Associates, Inc.Midtec Associates, Inc.20072007

BasicsBasics New technologyNew technology appears constantly so keep up to date appears constantly so keep up to date

yourself. Don’t wait for an ERA or Snowball seminar to learn of a yourself. Don’t wait for an ERA or Snowball seminar to learn of a great sales aid some of your competitors have been using for great sales aid some of your competitors have been using for several years. Subscribe to at least one general technology several years. Subscribe to at least one general technology (mostly computer) magazine. (mostly computer) magazine. PC WorldPC World (not other magazines (not other magazines with very similar titles such as PC magazine) is, by far, the best all with very similar titles such as PC magazine) is, by far, the best all around hands-on technology magazine. around hands-on technology magazine. www.pcworld.comwww.pcworld.com. If you . If you have several employees who you think have enough interest to have several employees who you think have enough interest to read it, buy them all subscriptions. Most will scan rather than read read it, buy them all subscriptions. Most will scan rather than read every word. One may spot something really important that others every word. One may spot something really important that others missed. The magazine changed last year from 100% computers to missed. The magazine changed last year from 100% computers to include virtually all of technology both personal and business. include virtually all of technology both personal and business. Everything from reviewing LCD big screen TV’s to cell phones to Everything from reviewing LCD big screen TV’s to cell phones to PDA’s to --. If you like, you can stay up to date with just one PDA’s to --. If you like, you can stay up to date with just one magazine. Some techie talk but mostly written so you understand magazine. Some techie talk but mostly written so you understand what you’re reading.what you’re reading.

BasicsBasics You sellYou sell technology so use it! Don’t be part of the stereotype technology so use it! Don’t be part of the stereotype

that “everyone over 40 is, and will always be, computerphobic”. that “everyone over 40 is, and will always be, computerphobic”. Hire out the “heavy lifting” such as setting up and maintaining Hire out the “heavy lifting” such as setting up and maintaining your company computer network but do other tasks yourself that your company computer network but do other tasks yourself that are not time sinks. Yes, your time is valuable but technology are not time sinks. Yes, your time is valuable but technology stopped being an option in our business years ago so you MUST stopped being an option in our business years ago so you MUST know how and where it fits into your business and when to use it know how and where it fits into your business and when to use it (or not). Remember: EVERYTHING new is rocket science at first (or not). Remember: EVERYTHING new is rocket science at first but becoming generally “technology literate” is no more difficult but becoming generally “technology literate” is no more difficult than learning, say, auto mechanics. It just takes some time and than learning, say, auto mechanics. It just takes some time and desire to learn. If you hire out everything, you’ll end up with desire to learn. If you hire out everything, you’ll end up with products and services you do NOT need or were not the best products and services you do NOT need or were not the best choices and possibly miss out on important new technology.choices and possibly miss out on important new technology.

Important point:Important point: the learning never stops! Read PC World the learning never stops! Read PC World magazine! Plagiarism is good! Be inquisitive and notice what magazine! Plagiarism is good! Be inquisitive and notice what others do and use in their companies. others do and use in their companies.

BasicsBasics

Now – for several Now – for several REAL Shocks!!!REAL Shocks!!!

BasicsBasics

TechnologyTechnology is NOT always the answer! If “the old way” still is NOT always the answer! If “the old way” still beats the latest technology then stay with it! A good example is beats the latest technology then stay with it! A good example is Midtec still manually compares invoices to commission statements Midtec still manually compares invoices to commission statements (making sure we are paid and paid correctly) the old fashioned file (making sure we are paid and paid correctly) the old fashioned file folder way. Yes, there are programs that will do this for you. They folder way. Yes, there are programs that will do this for you. They require invoice numbers, part numbers, customer names and so require invoice numbers, part numbers, customer names and so forth all be typed in exactly correct and exactly the same way (i.e. forth all be typed in exactly correct and exactly the same way (i.e. ABC Electronics and ABC Elect. are considered to be two ABC Electronics and ABC Elect. are considered to be two companies by most programs but not to a person reading the companies by most programs but not to a person reading the invoices). Yes, there are other reasons for such programs invoices). Yes, there are other reasons for such programs including principal requirements but, if it is “your call” then be including principal requirements but, if it is “your call” then be pragmatic and always follow the path of least resistance. Do what pragmatic and always follow the path of least resistance. Do what works best and is most cost efficient. Be it a computer program or works best and is most cost efficient. Be it a computer program or a #2 lead pencil. “Keep it simple” is still allowed!a #2 lead pencil. “Keep it simple” is still allowed!

Putting Your Best Techie Foot ForwardPutting Your Best Techie Foot Forward

MakingMaking maximum use of “what makes sense” technology in your maximum use of “what makes sense” technology in your company is good. Every person in your company only has so many hours company is good. Every person in your company only has so many hours in a day. The primary purpose of technology is to maximize the in a day. The primary purpose of technology is to maximize the productivity of those hours. productivity of those hours.

It is USUALLYIt is USUALLY a good idea to feature your emphasis on using a good idea to feature your emphasis on using technology on your Web site, to your principals and to the world – but not technology on your Web site, to your principals and to the world – but not always. Rule #1 of any rep interview – make your rep firm “special” from always. Rule #1 of any rep interview – make your rep firm “special” from all the rest. Excelling in the use of cutting edge technology works for most all the rest. Excelling in the use of cutting edge technology works for most -- but not all. Being “high-tech” can also sink you like a rock. -- but not all. Being “high-tech” can also sink you like a rock.

Know your audience.Know your audience. Some years ago we lost out on a potential line Some years ago we lost out on a potential line with the interviewing sales manager telling me afterwards “we need a with the interviewing sales manager telling me afterwards “we need a more ‘hands on’ rep firm”. It was obvious he was intimidated by our use more ‘hands on’ rep firm”. It was obvious he was intimidated by our use of technology thinking we use it to replace old-fashioned selling. Not true of technology thinking we use it to replace old-fashioned selling. Not true of course; it just enhances the selling but, to someone who is technology-of course; it just enhances the selling but, to someone who is technology-phobic, it can hurt you. “Know your audience”. phobic, it can hurt you. “Know your audience”.

Gadgets, Software and ServicesGadgets, Software and Services R/W CD’sR/W CD’s and DVD’s areand DVD’s are dead for transferring moderate dead for transferring moderate

amounts of data from PC to PC. Flash memory is now everywhere. amounts of data from PC to PC. Flash memory is now everywhere. In cameras, cell phones and anything that requires non-volatile In cameras, cell phones and anything that requires non-volatile memory (meaning memory that doesn’t go away if power is lost). memory (meaning memory that doesn’t go away if power is lost). Flash memory is appearing instead of hard drives in a number of Flash memory is appearing instead of hard drives in a number of high-end laptops. Flash memory is, being solid-state, lighter high-end laptops. Flash memory is, being solid-state, lighter weight, smaller and more reliable. But not cheaper (yet). The weight, smaller and more reliable. But not cheaper (yet). The price per gigabyte (Gb) is dropping fast. $10 per Gb is now price per gigabyte (Gb) is dropping fast. $10 per Gb is now common down from $50 just a year ago and $250 three years ago. common down from $50 just a year ago and $250 three years ago. There is no end in sight. Unlimited (almost) free memory is on There is no end in sight. Unlimited (almost) free memory is on the way. CD’s and DVD’s are for archival and program storage. the way. CD’s and DVD’s are for archival and program storage. Not as a means of data transfer. The market for CD/DVD Not as a means of data transfer. The market for CD/DVD “read/write” is over. “read/write” is over.

Cell phones, PDA’s, etc.Cell phones, PDA’s, etc. YouYou can now have almost every technology gadget a rep needs at a customer can now have almost every technology gadget a rep needs at a customer

site in one hand-held unit. Do you NEED all you can have today? If you’re a tech’s site in one hand-held unit. Do you NEED all you can have today? If you’re a tech’s techie then the answer is always “yes”. Even if you’re wasting money and ending techie then the answer is always “yes”. Even if you’re wasting money and ending up with something so complex that it borders on unusable, it can be fun. Assuming up with something so complex that it borders on unusable, it can be fun. Assuming you nix “fun” as a reason to spend company money, just be aware of features and you nix “fun” as a reason to spend company money, just be aware of features and functions that are now hand-held and can be combined into one unit. Then you functions that are now hand-held and can be combined into one unit. Then you decide. decide.

Cell phone (remember those?), camera (still image), live video transmission, GPS, Cell phone (remember those?), camera (still image), live video transmission, GPS, music, Web access, company network access, radio, television, digital memory pad music, Web access, company network access, radio, television, digital memory pad (PDA), address book, XM and Sirius radio (satellite), video and/or audio recorder, fax (PDA), address book, XM and Sirius radio (satellite), video and/or audio recorder, fax to e-mail, text messaging, alarm clocks, flash light and more are being added. to e-mail, text messaging, alarm clocks, flash light and more are being added. There seems to be no end in sight. NEEDED: smaller fingers and 20/10 microscopic There seems to be no end in sight. NEEDED: smaller fingers and 20/10 microscopic vision. ANSWER: display holography that transfers much larger images, tactile vision. ANSWER: display holography that transfers much larger images, tactile keyboards, etc. onto nearby surfaces. keyboards, etc. onto nearby surfaces. Coming soon!Coming soon!

CAUTION:CAUTION: Some customers will not allow cell phones with camera function on their Some customers will not allow cell phones with camera function on their premises. Some don’t take chances and ban all cell phones and even all electronic premises. Some don’t take chances and ban all cell phones and even all electronic devices. As much as your salespeople may want “camera cell phones”, the phones devices. As much as your salespeople may want “camera cell phones”, the phones may spend a lot of time sitting in guard shack storage lockers. So give it some may spend a lot of time sitting in guard shack storage lockers. So give it some thought before you buy checking out the policies of your major customers.thought before you buy checking out the policies of your major customers.

Internet ServicesInternet Services

GoogleGoogle has recently leapfrogged everyone else (what else is has recently leapfrogged everyone else (what else is new?) by putting Office-type programs on the Web (free). new?) by putting Office-type programs on the Web (free). Equivalents to Word, Excel, PowerPoint and so forth. A big Equivalents to Word, Excel, PowerPoint and so forth. A big advantage is that many can participate real-time in the creation of advantage is that many can participate real-time in the creation of a document. How often do you do that in the rep business? Not to a document. How often do you do that in the rep business? Not to often at least in Midtec but it can be a big aid in some businesses. often at least in Midtec but it can be a big aid in some businesses. Do you want your important data and documents on the Internet? Do you want your important data and documents on the Internet? Even as a second copy? Microsoft said last year “the era of the PC Even as a second copy? Microsoft said last year “the era of the PC is soon to be over”. That was when is soon to be over”. That was when THEYTHEY thought they were thought they were going to rent everyone copies of Office but do so on the Web. going to rent everyone copies of Office but do so on the Web. We’d all return to the days of “dumb” terminals with all the We’d all return to the days of “dumb” terminals with all the computing power residing in a master server. Microsoft assumed computing power residing in a master server. Microsoft assumed this was their path to the steady income stream they have this was their path to the steady income stream they have searched for but haven’t found. With this new service plus others, searched for but haven’t found. With this new service plus others, Google (and others) have come close to ending reasons for Google (and others) have come close to ending reasons for Microsoft to exist! Free-market monopolies are NEVER Microsoft to exist! Free-market monopolies are NEVER permanent. permanent.

Internet ServicesInternet Services RatherRather than try to list all the services, features and functions Google now than try to list all the services, features and functions Google now

offers (for free), visit their Web site and click on MORE then read through offers (for free), visit their Web site and click on MORE then read through the different categories. Pay special attention to LABS. You may wish to the different categories. Pay special attention to LABS. You may wish to download some or much of what you see. download some or much of what you see.

Except for the operating system, a new PC today can function quite nicely Except for the operating system, a new PC today can function quite nicely without Microsoft. without Microsoft.

Instead of: (use)Instead of: (use) OFFICE Open Office OFFICE Open Office www.openoffice.comwww.openoffice.com Internet Explorer Firefox Internet Explorer Firefox www.mozilla.comwww.mozilla.com Outlook Thunderbird Outlook Thunderbird www.mozilla.comwww.mozilla.com *** All are *** All are freefree and all are actually and all are actually betterbetter than the MS equivalents! Open than the MS equivalents! Open

Office files are 100% compatible with MS Office files. Note: I admit to still Office files are 100% compatible with MS Office files. Note: I admit to still using most MS products out of habit except for Firefox (love it!). using most MS products out of habit except for Firefox (love it!).

Of all other software a rep does, may or should use, a free version of it Of all other software a rep does, may or should use, a free version of it probably exists. probably exists. www.download.comwww.download.com is the portal that should be used for is the portal that should be used for all free software (they test each one – this is from PC World magazine). all free software (they test each one – this is from PC World magazine). Free software MUST be safe so beware! Programs like Gold Mine, Quicken, Free software MUST be safe so beware! Programs like Gold Mine, Quicken, QuickBooks, FrontPage, Publisher, and so on exist as a free version on QuickBooks, FrontPage, Publisher, and so on exist as a free version on www.download.comwww.download.com but may or may not be 100% compatible with the $$ but may or may not be 100% compatible with the $$ software it mimics. If Linux ever becomes 100% compatible with XP or software it mimics. If Linux ever becomes 100% compatible with XP or Vista then, at that point, Vista then, at that point, does the world still need Microsoft? does the world still need Microsoft?

We’ll take a vote!We’ll take a vote!

Internet ServicesInternet Services SkypeSkype www.skype.comwww.skype.com Finally!Finally! A PC to PC audio/video A PC to PC audio/video

telephone service that really works plus seamlessly connects to telephone service that really works plus seamlessly connects to the “real world” phone system (free if PC to PC and one to five the “real world” phone system (free if PC to PC and one to five cents per minute if PC to telephone – everywhere!). The days of cents per minute if PC to telephone – everywhere!). The days of countries and hotels stealing from you by charging $5 a minute for countries and hotels stealing from you by charging $5 a minute for overseas calls is coming to an end. Just be prepared and know overseas calls is coming to an end. Just be prepared and know what’s available where you’re going. Get stuck in an out of the what’s available where you’re going. Get stuck in an out of the way foreign location where you MUST make a call but have no clue way foreign location where you MUST make a call but have no clue what the cell $$ cost is – be prepared for a nasty shock! Be sure what the cell $$ cost is – be prepared for a nasty shock! Be sure you will have an Internet connection and you will have a phone you will have an Internet connection and you will have a phone connection – worldwide!! connection – worldwide!!

Everyone in Midtec has a camera/microphone on their monitor and are only a mouse click away from a “videophone” connection. www.midtec.com

Internet Services – Wi-fiInternet Services – Wi-fi

Wi-fiWi-fi (wireless fidelity) Fidelity? Who picked such an odd name is lost in (wireless fidelity) Fidelity? Who picked such an odd name is lost in history. As a carry forward from the page on Skype, a “wi-fi compatible” history. As a carry forward from the page on Skype, a “wi-fi compatible” cell phone is one that seamlessly looks for “hot spots”* and switches your cell phone is one that seamlessly looks for “hot spots”* and switches your call to go through a hot spot when one is in range. But the cellular call to go through a hot spot when one is in range. But the cellular company has to include this service. This is common in Europe but company has to include this service. This is common in Europe but uncommon (today) in the U.S. Because of our many F.C.C. regulations uncommon (today) in the U.S. Because of our many F.C.C. regulations limiting competition, we now rank #14 in the list of countries considered to limiting competition, we now rank #14 in the list of countries considered to be the “most connected”. As an example, Singapore is blanketed with a be the “most connected”. As an example, Singapore is blanketed with a wide area version of wi-fi called Wi-Max providing high speed Internet to wide area version of wi-fi called Wi-Max providing high speed Internet to everyone. “Skype compatible” cell phones are appearing where their calls everyone. “Skype compatible” cell phones are appearing where their calls route through Skype. The hardware exists but U.S. cell phone providers route through Skype. The hardware exists but U.S. cell phone providers are naturally resistant to this as it drops the cost of a call to almost zero. are naturally resistant to this as it drops the cost of a call to almost zero. “More or less government?”. The battle will continue well past all of us. “More or less government?”. The battle will continue well past all of us.

*hot spot: an area where wireless Internet connectivity is available*hot spot: an area where wireless Internet connectivity is available

Internet Services – Wi-fi Internet Services – Wi-fi Wi-fi Wi-fi provides wireless Internet connectivity. Virtually all laptops provides wireless Internet connectivity. Virtually all laptops

today include built-in wi-fi transceivers. The range of wi-fi can today include built-in wi-fi transceivers. The range of wi-fi can vary from 100 feet to 10,000 feet. Technically, just as any radio vary from 100 feet to 10,000 feet. Technically, just as any radio wave, there is no limit. There are three primary modes, B and the wave, there is no limit. There are three primary modes, B and the newer G and the even newer N. All are backwards compatible so newer G and the even newer N. All are backwards compatible so don’t worry about buying a G-mode router if you have older B-don’t worry about buying a G-mode router if you have older B-mode wi-fi laptops. There is some improvement in distance but mode wi-fi laptops. There is some improvement in distance but mostly in speed. But you never know what speed you’ll end up mostly in speed. But you never know what speed you’ll end up with. You’re sharing a connection with others (probably). with. You’re sharing a connection with others (probably). www.speedtest.net is my favorite speed test site. Fast and www.speedtest.net is my favorite speed test site. Fast and accurate. accurate.

There are books listing hot spots around the nation but new ones There are books listing hot spots around the nation but new ones appear so often the books are out of date the day they are appear so often the books are out of date the day they are printed. There are numerous Web sites listing hot spots. Some printed. There are numerous Web sites listing hot spots. Some make it extra easy by just inserting the Zip code you’re in. make it extra easy by just inserting the Zip code you’re in.

Internet Services – Wi-fiInternet Services – Wi-fi

The easiestThe easiest way to find hot spots is to carry a $15 “hot spot way to find hot spots is to carry a $15 “hot spot detector”. This saves you the trouble of unpacking and booting up detector”. This saves you the trouble of unpacking and booting up your laptop to see if a “node” is nearby. Note: keep in mind some your laptop to see if a “node” is nearby. Note: keep in mind some are encrypted so you can’t gain a connection without being told are encrypted so you can’t gain a connection without being told the connection password. Some charge for it and some are closed the connection password. Some charge for it and some are closed to others because they want it that way. Wi-fi pocket sized to others because they want it that way. Wi-fi pocket sized detectors down to keychain sized are for sale on eBay and most detectors down to keychain sized are for sale on eBay and most any electronics and computer store for prices from $5 to $50. Just any electronics and computer store for prices from $5 to $50. Just like USB memory sticks, you may be lucky enough to have a like USB memory sticks, you may be lucky enough to have a principal give away wi-fi detectors as freebies. All detect all three principal give away wi-fi detectors as freebies. All detect all three modes. Only the most expensive do such things as indicate the modes. Only the most expensive do such things as indicate the mode (you really don’t care), display the SSID of the node or the mode (you really don’t care), display the SSID of the node or the direction. Price can sometimes indicate the sensitivity. Directivity direction. Price can sometimes indicate the sensitivity. Directivity and good range are handy features. Hawkins sells one for $15 and good range are handy features. Hawkins sells one for $15 that is very sensitive and very directional.that is very sensitive and very directional.

Internet Services – Wi-fiInternet Services – Wi-fi

My favorite but, as I say, there are dozens including ones MUCH more sensitive than this one but this one is many steps above the typical keychain detector in both gain and directivity. www.ebay.com search for hawking wifi locator.

HWL1 802.11b/g WiFi Locater. $35 at CompUSA or currently selling for $6.49 plus $8 shipping on eBay.

There are options galore for wi-fi just as exist for cell phones. Extended range antennas being the #1 handiest option. Roof-top cell phone antennas for instance. Wi-fi antennas that go up to the dish level. Google for options. www.hawkingtech.com shows a dish antenna option. Very handy when your hotel wants $10 a day but there is a Starbucks down the street or a hotel next door with free wi-fi. You can also buy a portable router to provide everyone in the hotel free wi-fi from your connection! The options are limitless. The record for long distance wi-fi? 191 miles (really).

Internet Services – Wi-fiInternet Services – Wi-fi As a courtesy,As a courtesy, (and they will appreciate it!) have a wireless router on your office (and they will appreciate it!) have a wireless router on your office

Internet connection. How many times does a RSM come rushing in asking “where is Internet connection. How many times does a RSM come rushing in asking “where is the nearest hot spot! I’ve been off e-mail for six hours now!”. Sweating bullets. The the nearest hot spot! I’ve been off e-mail for six hours now!”. Sweating bullets. The younger they are, the more frantic they are. Have a waiting AC power socket in younger they are, the more frantic they are. Have a waiting AC power socket in your conference room and an open wireless router so all he/she has to do is “log-your conference room and an open wireless router so all he/she has to do is “log-on”. If you are not in an urban area (i.e. office building) where others might find on”. If you are not in an urban area (i.e. office building) where others might find your signal and decide to make use of your connection instead of paying for their your signal and decide to make use of your connection instead of paying for their own, just leave it unencrypted. But check every so often to see if anyone is own, just leave it unencrypted. But check every so often to see if anyone is “hooked onto” your router and, if so, turn off your SSID (the signal that says who “hooked onto” your router and, if so, turn off your SSID (the signal that says who you are and your Wi-fi’s name). This makes it a bit more difficult to hook-on but you are and your Wi-fi’s name). This makes it a bit more difficult to hook-on but still not that hard. If you discover others are hooking on and dragging down your still not that hard. If you discover others are hooking on and dragging down your connection by using it a lot, switch it to 64-bit encrypted. Tell your visiting fireman connection by using it a lot, switch it to 64-bit encrypted. Tell your visiting fireman what the encryption password is. Newer laptops auto sense nodes and pop up what the encryption password is. Newer laptops auto sense nodes and pop up windows asking for encryption passwords. Insert the password and they are hooked windows asking for encryption passwords. Insert the password and they are hooked on. Simple! on. Simple!

KeepKeep the router as an access point only. Do NOT adjust it such that anyone (even the router as an access point only. Do NOT adjust it such that anyone (even with passwords) can gain access to your network. The security reasons are obvious. with passwords) can gain access to your network. The security reasons are obvious. Instead, use remote connection software (a later slide) to gain access to your Instead, use remote connection software (a later slide) to gain access to your network. If you use outside network techies, they will assume you want the router network. If you use outside network techies, they will assume you want the router to allow access to your network. NO! (be sure to tell them). to allow access to your network. NO! (be sure to tell them).

Internet Services – Wi-fiInternet Services – Wi-fi

ThereThere are many types of “wireless Internet connectivity”. Wi-fi are many types of “wireless Internet connectivity”. Wi-fi is the one you are probably most familiar with and probably is the one you are probably most familiar with and probably already use. Many of you have wireless routers in your home. As already use. Many of you have wireless routers in your home. As an aside, if what you have works, don’t spend more money for an aside, if what you have works, don’t spend more money for newer types (like N mode). Even b-mode is as fast as most high newer types (like N mode). Even b-mode is as fast as most high speed Internet connection. Unless your router is also doing lots of speed Internet connection. Unless your router is also doing lots of peer-to-peer intranet big file transfers, you will notice no peer-to-peer intranet big file transfers, you will notice no difference “upgrading” to a faster router. Until Internet providers difference “upgrading” to a faster router. Until Internet providers begin to offer 50,000 kbps (which they can already do but the begin to offer 50,000 kbps (which they can already do but the current infrastructure in this country couldn’t handle the load) a current infrastructure in this country couldn’t handle the load) a plain old b-mode router is adequate in almost every instance. But plain old b-mode router is adequate in almost every instance. But you can’t even buy a new b-mode router today. So g-mode is just you can’t even buy a new b-mode router today. So g-mode is just fine. N-mode will add zero improvement. They CLAIM to have fine. N-mode will add zero improvement. They CLAIM to have more range but in actual tests, that is seldom true. If you need more range but in actual tests, that is seldom true. If you need more range, antennas and other options are available. more range, antennas and other options are available.

Internet ServicesInternet Services Remote controlRemote control of PC’s. There are many such software programs on of PC’s. There are many such software programs on

the market. Many heavily marketed on radio and TV. GoToMyPC.com for the market. Many heavily marketed on radio and TV. GoToMyPC.com for example. There are many such programs that work fine and also cost example. There are many such programs that work fine and also cost money. Some are monthly rentals. There is no need to spend a dime! The money. Some are monthly rentals. There is no need to spend a dime! The object is to have remote control just like you’re at the keyboard of the object is to have remote control just like you’re at the keyboard of the other computer but have it such that security is like Ft. Knox. other computer but have it such that security is like Ft. Knox.

Such a service exists. Such a service exists. LogMeInLogMeIn. www.logmein.com. I waited a year . www.logmein.com. I waited a year before going with it to make sure it was indeed bullet-proof. It is. It is now before going with it to make sure it was indeed bullet-proof. It is. It is now installed on many millions of computers and has not been hacked even installed on many millions of computers and has not been hacked even once. I have it installed on several of our office pc’s as well as various once. I have it installed on several of our office pc’s as well as various computers where I help others with their computer problems. No more computers where I help others with their computer problems. No more service calls! As long as they are hooked to the Internet, I can hook to service calls! As long as they are hooked to the Internet, I can hook to their pc and operate it just like I was there. Go to their site to learn more. their pc and operate it just like I was there. Go to their site to learn more. Like all free software, they try to sell you their pro version but it’s not Like all free software, they try to sell you their pro version but it’s not needed for what we do. If you need or want remote control over any pc, needed for what we do. If you need or want remote control over any pc, this is the Web-based service to use. You can control another pc from any this is the Web-based service to use. You can control another pc from any other pc with your log-in name and password. And the other pc has to other pc with your log-in name and password. And the other pc has to have the software installed and it set to allow you in. As I say, it seems to have the software installed and it set to allow you in. As I say, it seems to be bullet proof. I have our server with so many security walls installed that be bullet proof. I have our server with so many security walls installed that it is like Ft. Knox but this gets in as if no security was on the server it is like Ft. Knox but this gets in as if no security was on the server whatsoever. LogMeIn has saved me considerable time and effort working whatsoever. LogMeIn has saved me considerable time and effort working on other pc’s plus it gives me direct remote access to our network (through on other pc’s plus it gives me direct remote access to our network (through one our office computers). one our office computers).

GadgetsGadgets ThereThere have been few new “revolutionary” gadgets the last few years. At least have been few new “revolutionary” gadgets the last few years. At least

in industrial and business computing. There’s been the iPOD and the Wii video in industrial and business computing. There’s been the iPOD and the Wii video game. As well as other consumer items such as the “Slingbox” and so forth. But game. As well as other consumer items such as the “Slingbox” and so forth. But not much new for us. Just improvements of what we already have. For instance, not much new for us. Just improvements of what we already have. For instance, ink jet printers (unless you REALLY need color) is now a BAD investment. Good ink jet printers (unless you REALLY need color) is now a BAD investment. Good quality laser printers and copiers have dropped below $100. No more messy ink quality laser printers and copiers have dropped below $100. No more messy ink jet cartridges and laser cartridges last MUCH longer. jet cartridges and laser cartridges last MUCH longer.

Thin,Thin, light-weight LCD monitors. Hopefully, you’ve dumped most of your old light-weight LCD monitors. Hopefully, you’ve dumped most of your old CRT monitors! CRT monitors!

HaveHave you “upgraded” to Microsoft Vista? If not and you’re still thinking about it you “upgraded” to Microsoft Vista? If not and you’re still thinking about it – DON’T!. Bugs galore and it is a royal mess. Virtually all Vista sales have been to – DON’T!. Bugs galore and it is a royal mess. Virtually all Vista sales have been to major corporations who are under contract to buy whatever MS is selling today. major corporations who are under contract to buy whatever MS is selling today. Stay with XP as long as you can. Midtec continues to buy almost new Toshiba Stay with XP as long as you can. Midtec continues to buy almost new Toshiba (favorite brand) laptops on eBay at VERY good prices and desktops built to order (favorite brand) laptops on eBay at VERY good prices and desktops built to order from Microcenter. www.microcenter.com. Microcenter has everything you need, from Microcenter. www.microcenter.com. Microcenter has everything you need, at good prices and tech support that is more than someone in India reading from at good prices and tech support that is more than someone in India reading from a script. a script.

GADGETSGADGETS – – lots of new consumer items but little for business. We seem to lots of new consumer items but little for business. We seem to have hit a plateau. That’s good! Personally, I’m tired of having to junk have hit a plateau. That’s good! Personally, I’m tired of having to junk

everything and start over every three years! Let’s hope this respite lasts!everything and start over every three years! Let’s hope this respite lasts!

BackupsBackups What!!??What!!?? You’re not backing up all your data every night in You’re not backing up all your data every night in

multiple ways?? You are skirting with disaster. 43% of all multiple ways?? You are skirting with disaster. 43% of all companies who are highly dependent on their files and records companies who are highly dependent on their files and records who suffer a catastrophic data loss (lose everything including their who suffer a catastrophic data loss (lose everything including their backups) NEVER reopen for business. Of those who do, 54% close backups) NEVER reopen for business. Of those who do, 54% close within the next 12 months. within the next 12 months.

ThereThere are multiple methods of backup. From RAID in your are multiple methods of backup. From RAID in your server, to individual backups, to flash memory sticks for very server, to individual backups, to flash memory sticks for very critical data to Web-based automatic backup companies to – the critical data to Web-based automatic backup companies to – the list goes on and on. Have at least THREE forms of backup of your list goes on and on. Have at least THREE forms of backup of your most important files. And keep at least two in separate places and most important files. And keep at least two in separate places and at least one off-site. An on-site copy in a fire-proof box or safe is a at least one off-site. An on-site copy in a fire-proof box or safe is a good idea. And make sure you are REALLY backing up. More than good idea. And make sure you are REALLY backing up. More than half of all catastrophic data losses happen to companies who half of all catastrophic data losses happen to companies who believed they were backing up. But their backups were also believed they were backing up. But their backups were also corrupted or were blank! Periodically, look at the data on your corrupted or were blank! Periodically, look at the data on your backup media to make sure your backups are really happening! backup media to make sure your backups are really happening!

Services - VOIPServices - VOIP VOIPVOIP – what is it? “Voice Over Internet Protocol”. – what is it? “Voice Over Internet Protocol”. Basically, it is routing telephone calls over the Internet. Your long Basically, it is routing telephone calls over the Internet. Your long

distance carrier may already be doing some of it and you haven’t distance carrier may already be doing some of it and you haven’t noticed. noticed.

Should you opt for “VOIP” when you buy a new phone system? Should you opt for “VOIP” when you buy a new phone system? Never say never but VOIP is often standard or is inexpensive as an Never say never but VOIP is often standard or is inexpensive as an option. Buy it and leave it for the future if you like. BUToption. Buy it and leave it for the future if you like. BUT

You may never use it. VOIP drops the cost of long distance calls to You may never use it. VOIP drops the cost of long distance calls to nothing to a few cents a minute. nothing to a few cents a minute.

Have you looked at your LD bill lately? It may be the only expense Have you looked at your LD bill lately? It may be the only expense that keeps going down. “Land-line” LD averages 5 cents a minute that keeps going down. “Land-line” LD averages 5 cents a minute today. I suspect you pay more for your cell phones than your LD. today. I suspect you pay more for your cell phones than your LD. “VOIP only” commits you to the Internet for LD calls unless you “VOIP only” commits you to the Internet for LD calls unless you keep your LD carrier as backup. In spite of claims, VOIP still has keep your LD carrier as backup. In spite of claims, VOIP still has occasional glitches and delays. LD is already so cheap, is VOIP occasional glitches and delays. LD is already so cheap, is VOIP worth the effort? You decide. Midtec is VOIP-ready but we don’t worth the effort? You decide. Midtec is VOIP-ready but we don’t use it. Maybe someday. If you want to save on LD, encourage use it. Maybe someday. If you want to save on LD, encourage your salespeople to use their cell phones (if your cell phone plans your salespeople to use their cell phones (if your cell phone plans have unlimited or usually unused LD minutes). have unlimited or usually unused LD minutes).

In ClosingIn Closing

Wi-Max,Wi-Max, T1, T3, cable, satellite, microwave, point-to-point, DSL, ISDN, T1, T3, cable, satellite, microwave, point-to-point, DSL, ISDN, 100Base-T, analog, digital, ad-hoc, SMTP, POP-3, authentication, fixed IP, 100Base-T, analog, digital, ad-hoc, SMTP, POP-3, authentication, fixed IP, DHCP, SSID, encryption, WLAN, DNS, WAP, pass-through, HTTP, HTTPS, DHCP, SSID, encryption, WLAN, DNS, WAP, pass-through, HTTP, HTTPS, spread spectrum, bandwidth, SSL, NETBEUI, packet, yada, yada, yada – spread spectrum, bandwidth, SSL, NETBEUI, packet, yada, yada, yada –

How ever much technology you farm out, do NOT let them snow How ever much technology you farm out, do NOT let them snow you! Write everything down and look it up. EVERYTHING can be you! Write everything down and look it up. EVERYTHING can be “Googled”. Let yourself be snowed and you needlessly open your “Googled”. Let yourself be snowed and you needlessly open your wallet and may or may not get what you want! wallet and may or may not get what you want!

Checking the calendar, we are well into the 21Checking the calendar, we are well into the 21stst century and there century and there will always be a need for reps – who are pragmatic and change will always be a need for reps – who are pragmatic and change with the times! That includes adding new technology WHEN and with the times! That includes adding new technology WHEN and IF it makes sense to do so. IF it makes sense to do so.