Ask Mr. Modem: For Gmail users, bigger words aren't in thesaurus

Posted Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2013 0 comments  Print Reprints

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Mr. Modem's sites of the week

Camerascotta

www.mcbs.dirigosystems.com

Submitted by reader B.H., this Webcam overlooks the charming New England town of Damariscotta, Maine. Okay, so it's not life-altering, but it is interesting nonetheless. If you have a favorite Webcam, tell me all about it and why you like it. If it cuts the proverbial mustard (spicy deli variety, please), I will publish it so others can enjoy the view, as well. Be sure to include the site's Web address.

GrubHub

www.grubhub.com

With its database of more than 15,000 restaurants, if you have a craving for a late-night pizza or Chinese, you are in luck. Currently in more than 300 cities and growing, GrubHub lets you enter an address, then will provide a list of restaurants that deliver to your area, as well as a number of establishments that offer carry-out. You can place an order online or by phone. Create a free account to save favorites, store payment information or review previous orders -- which will help identify any disturbing late-night dietary trends. You will also have access to coupons, special offers and 24/7 customer service. Free apps are available for Apple and Android devices.

Manilla.com

www.manilla.com

Manilla (yes, with two l's) gathers all of the information you need to manage your bills and other accounts in one easy-to-use, Web-based organized overview. Manilla also lets you know when bills are coming due by providing automatic reminders, also known as eNags. Site security is excellent as represented, featuring data encryption and "bank-level" protection -- which provides little comfort, since my bank was recently robbed. There is a section of the site that addresses security, so be sure to read that if you are feeling a little skittish. Free mobile apps are also available.


Have more to add? News tip? Tell us

I love Gmail, but I want to know if there is any way to establish a larger default font?

Yes, indeed. To do this, launch Gmail and log into your account. Click Settings (via the little wrench icon in the upper right-hand corner), then click Labs. Locate Default Text Styling and select Enable. Click Save Changes at the bottom of the screen.

Next, click Settings (again with the little wrench), then click Mail Settings > General tab. Look for Default Text Style in the list of settings and select your desired default formatting. Click the Save Changes button when you are finished.

I know what WiFi is, but what is this WiMax thing I keep hearing about?

Unlike Wi-Fi, which covers an area of a few hundred feet, WiMax networks are capable of extending wireless coverage over several square miles. WiMax will provide high-speed Internet connections to homes and businesses within a geographic area, eliminating the need for every building to provide independent access. WiMax signals will eventually cover entire metropolitan areas, providing users with wireless access to the Internet from virtually any location, not just hot spots where local Wi-Fi networks currently provide access.

When I order anything online, sites now ask for a security code from the back of my credit card. What is that and why is it being asked for?

When ordering anything online with a credit card these days, you will typically be asked for your Card Verification Value. The CVV is a three-digit number that usually appears on the back of the card. Because it's on the back and not raised for easy copying, many merchants and retailers require the CVV number because it means that you probably have the card in your physical possession and are therefore the legitimate owner. It's not guaranteed, of course, but it does reduce the probability of fraud for retailers.

Mr. Modem publishes "Ask Mr. Modem!" each week, featuring PC tips, tricks and plain-English answers to your questions by email. For more information, visit www.MrModem.com. Mr. Modem's sites of the week.

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