Quick downloads just the ticket for spam attacks

Q: I've tried everything I can think of to eliminate junk mail from my in-box, but it just keeps coming. I've set up Outlook Express mail filters, and I know my Internet service provider does filtering at its end. Is there anything more I can do?

A: Sounds like a job for anti-spam software. It might not eliminate your problem, but it could cut down the junk to a level where you can live with it. Spam-fighting programs block unwanted messages by using pre-installed filters that identify known spammers as well as words and phrases associated with spam.

Popular downloadable programs include McAfee's SpamKiller ($39.95 from spamkiller.com), Allume Systems' SpamCatcher ($29.99 from spamcatcher.com) and Cloudmark SafetyBar ($39.95 from safetybar.com). All the programs work with Outlook or Outlook Express, and you can try the software before you buy it. .

Q: I have a problem that has bothered me for ages. After I spell-check a document in Microsoft Word, the program won't let me check the entire document again. When I start the spell-checker, it only shows errors in the changes I have made since the initial spell-checking. I really would like to be able to simply spell-check the whole document again. Is there a way to do that?

A: Word keeps track of stuff you choose to ignore during spell-checking - - like proper names and acronyms. It would be nice if you could recheck the document from scratch right from Spelling and Grammar in the Tools menu. But you can't. Once again, Microsoft has managed to hide a practical feature where it's hard to find.

To clear the spell-checker's memory so you can recheck the entire document, go to Options in the Tools menu, tab over to Spelling & Grammar, and click the button labeled Recheck Document. A box will pop up alerting you that you're about to reset the spell-checker. Click Yes, then click OK. The spell- checker should then let you check the entire document..

Q: Is it possible to have bugs such as mites in and around a computer? We have a small office in our home, and when I turn on the computer, something no one can see seems to annoy us.

A: Dust mites have been known to live beneath the keys of a keyboard and inside a PC case as well. They're tiny, however, and don't make any noise. I've heard of mice (real ones, not computer mice) nesting in unused PCs, but I'd imagine that a mouse wouldn't stick around if the computer is used regularly. Plus, the computer probably wouldn't work with a mouse nest inside it. If you want some reassurance, open the case and take a look..

Q: I'm in the market for a digital camera capable of shooting sports and action photos both outside and indoors. What should I look for?

A: Sports photography can make serious demands on a camera, which means you'll need something more than a simple, automated point-and-shoot model.

Necessary features include a telephoto lens (zoom or fixed length), manual controls for different light situations, fast shutter speeds (1/2,000th of a second and up) and high ISO settings (light-sensitivity levels equivalent to film speeds in a film camera -- you remember those).

You will also want a fast autofocus and a system that allows you to take a quick sequence of photos without shutter lag (when the camera recharges between shots).

Some consumer cameras, including higher-end Nikon CoolPix and Canon PowerShot models, have most of the needed features. But if you're really serious about capturing the action, consider a single lens reflex (SLR) camera that accepts interchangeable lenses.

Prices of digital SLRs are dropping, so you can get into the game without spending a fortune. For about $1,200, for instance, you can buy an entry-level Canon Digital Rebel XT (it has 8 megapixels) and a Canon 75mm to 300mm telephoto lens. Then you can let the action come to you.


If you're like me, you sometimes have an overabundance of items on your Windows desktop -- everything from program installation files you've downloaded to Word documents and family photos.

That can make it difficult to find a file quickly. The answer is to sort the desktop icons so that files of the same type are grouped together. Just right-click any empty area of the desktop, point to "Arrange Icons By" and choose Type.