Lab Rats in WMV 720x480

Andy Walker and Sean Carruthers podcasts

A video cast by Andy Walker and Sean Carruthers about how to use advanced features of technology you already own. Includes a healthy dose of humor, a few antics and lots of tech education. Includes cameos of lab cats Biff and Boo. Produced by Call for Help's Matt Harris.

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Episodes

Episode 209: Get up to speed with USB 3.0
2/15/2010
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Duration: 20:51

Sean and Andy take a look at USB 3.0, talk about speed and compatibility, and show off some USB 3.0 gadgets.
Episode 208: Is the iPad worth the wait?
2/8/2010
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Duration: 21:07

Andy and Sean get their hands on Apple's new tablet, the iPad....well, kinda. They talk about what it's designed to do, what it won't do, and whether or not it's going to be worth waiting for its spring 2010 launch date.
Episode 207: What's new with Intel?
2/1/2010
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Duration: 23:37

Andy and Sean take a look at Intel's currently consumer-friendly CPU lineup, and get a glimpse at the new products just announced at CES 2010.
Episode 206: Robots at CES 2010
1/25/2010
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Duration: 13:48

Andy and Sean hit the road to visit the Consumer Electronics Show 2010 to bring Robots directly to you!
Episode 205: Weirdest of CES 2010
1/18/2010
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Duration: 20:08

In among the shining stars of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), highlighted in Lab Rats episode 204 and in our on-location CES coverage for @, there are the weird, wonderful, wacky and sometimes whacked-out gadgets and gizmos on the CES show floor. Every year without fail there's the technology that has everyone talking. And then there are the slightly more offbeat announcements. Sometimes they have all the earmarks of a hit gadget sometimes... not so much. Sean and Andy scoured the show floor to find these, their picks for the weirdest of CES 2010.
Episode 204: Best of CES 2010
1/11/2010
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Duration: 21:48

Andy and Sean take a look at their favorites from the 2010 Consumer Electronics Show.
Episode 203: Pre-CES 2010 check-in
1/4/2010
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Duration: 2:53

Andy and Sean check in quickly before heading to CES and let you know what to expect in the weeks ahead, and where to find daily coverage from the butterscotch.com team for CES 2010.
Episode 202: Beating WiFi Deadzones
12/28/2009
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Duration: 20:01

Andy and Sean take a look at why your WiFi signal may not be strong throughtout your entire house, and show you a way to beat WiFi dead zones using powerline networking and a second wireless router.
Episode 201: TV Cables Explained
12/21/2009
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Duration: 19:46

Andy and Sean take an updated look at the cables needed to get a high def picture from your multimedia equipment to your high definition TV.
Episode 200: Two Hundredth Episode (Recession-Adjusted) Spectacular!
12/14/2009
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Duration: 16:17

To celebrate their 200th episode, Andy and Sean reminisce about what's happened to the world of Lab Rats over the last 100 episodes, and pick some of their favourite moments...and one not-so-favourite moment.
Episode 199: Lab Rats Holiday Gift Guide 2009
12/7/2009
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Duration: 20:45

Andy and Sean take a look at their top gift-giving picks for the holiday season, including robot vacuums, a USB turntable and many, many flying things.
Episode 198: e-Ink Explained
11/23/2009
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Duration: 16:03

If you have a Kindle or a Sony e-reader, check it out: Andy and Sean explain how e-Ink works using eggs, salt and shoe polish.
Episode 197: Lab Rat App-O-Rama
11/16/2009
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Duration: 22:07

The iPhone is one of the most popular consumer gadgets out there, and everyone has their favorite apps for it, so Andy and Sean show off a few of their faves.
Episode 196: A Mouse in the House
11/9/2009
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Duration: 21:07

Sean and Andy take a look at the evolution of the computer mouse, and take a look at some of the newest improvements in this everyday object.
Episode 195: Save those Electrons: Power Saving Tips
11/2/2009
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Duration: 20:53

Sean and Andy take a look at a few ways to use your power more efficiently, from energy-conserving power bars to rechargeable batteries to LED lighting.
Episode 194: Robot Invasion!
10/26/2009
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Duration: 23:56

Sean and Andy take a look at the types of robots we are now starting to welcome into our home, whether they're designed to help us vacuum or help keep our kids entertained.
Episode 193: Six little-known things about Windows 7
10/19/2009
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Duration: 16:53

Andy and Sean dig a bit deeper into Microsoft's brand new operating system, Windows 7, and uncover a few things about it that aren't as well known yet.
Episode 192: Six Cool Things about Windows 7
10/12/2009
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Duration: 22:41

Andy and Sean take a look at six of the coolest new features in Windows 7.
Episode 191: Get printing! Choosing the right printer for your needs
10/5/2009
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Duration: 20:41

Andy and Sean take a look at inkjet, laser and multifunction printers, explain how they work, and explain why you might want to choose one type of printer over the others.
Episode 190: Will the new Nano kill the Flip?
9/28/2009
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Duration: 18:51

Sean and Andy take a look at the new iPod nano's video capabilities, measure it up against the offerings from Flip, and offer some insight into whether Flip should be worried.
Episode 189: Which video camera is for you?
9/21/2009
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Duration: 20:39

Andy and Sean take a look at some of the different types of video cameras you can choose, from the very small to the semi-pro.
Episode 188: Smartphone Showdown!
9/14/2009
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Duration: 22:58

Andy and Sean take a look at the iPhone 3GS, the Palm Pre, and the Blackberry Tour, and talk about each phone's strengths and weaknesses.
Episode 187: What's new in Snow Leopard?
9/7/2009
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Duration: 21:32

Sean and Andy take a look at Apple's new version of Mac OS X, known as "Snow Leopard", and talk about what's new...and what's not so new.
Episode 186: Mailbag #8
8/31/2009
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Duration: 18:49

Andy and Sean answer more questions you've sent in!
Episode 185: Router Maintenance 101
8/24/2009
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Duration: 18:39

Andy and Sean take a look at how to make sure your wireless network router is up to date, and show off how to make sure your computer's wireless networking drivers are up to date, as well.
Episode 184: Fitness 2.0
8/17/2009
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Duration: 19:21

Sean and Andy show you you how to use technology to help you get fit, including EA Sports Active for the Wii, the Nike+ system, and an iPhone app for cyclists.
Episode 183: The ABC of Digital TV
8/10/2009
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Duration: 18:48

Andy and Sean take a look at the switch to Digital TV, explain what you need to receive Digital TV signals, and talk about the implications of the switchover.
Episode 182: Analyze This! Google Analytics Explained
8/3/2009
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Duration: 20:39

Andy and Sean take a look at Google Analytics, show how to integrate it into your web site, and explain why you need it.
Episode 181: iPhone Evolution
7/27/2009
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Duration: 24:43

Andy and Sean crack open the case (so to speak) on the three generations of iPhone and take a look at what makes them run, as well as speculating on what's coming next from Apple.
Episode 180: Outlook begone! Merge your email accounts with Gmail
7/20/2009
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Duration: 19:03

Andy and Sean talk about Gmail's ability to pull your mail from multiple accounts, and Andy explains how he ditched Outlook completely, and merged all of his email into Gmail.
Episode 179: Put That Cell Phone Down!
7/13/2009
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Duration: 20:11

Andy and Sean answer more of your questions.Andy and Sean talk about why it's not only a good idea to go hands-free when you're using your cell phone, but how in some cases it's the law. Gadgets are shown, impersonations are done.
Episode 178: Mailbag #7
7/6/2009
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Duration: 18:52

Andy and Sean answer more of your questions.
Episode 177: The wild and wooly truth about NAS
6/29/2009
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Duration: 20:23

Sean and Andy talk about Network Attached Storage, explain why you need it in your house, and how to set it up. Along the way, animal sounds are made.
Episode 176: Live from the PC Museum!
6/22/2009
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Duration: 12:15

Andy and Sean head to the PC Museum (www.pcmuseum.ca) in Brantford, Ontario, and take a look at some of the machines they grew up with!
Episode 175: Put your top secret date in the 'Crypt'
6/15/2009
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Duration: 19:15

Sean and Andy take a look at the open source TrueCrypt software, explain what it does, and show how (and why) to use it.
Episode 174: Your Basic DSLR Lens Kit
6/8/2009
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Duration: 23:24

Sean and Andy take a look at how removable lenses work on a digital SLR camera and show off which types of lenses you should add to your camera bag.
Episode 173: iTunes Power Tips
6/1/2009
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Duration: 17:39

Sean and Andy show you some ways to bend iTunes to your will, so you can use it more efficiently!
Episode 172: Printing to the network
5/25/2009
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Duration: 15:49

Andy and Sean take a look at network printers, explain what they are, and show how to set one up on your Windows or Mac computer.
Episode 171: BitTorrent Unscrambled
5/18/2009
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Duration: 22:45

Andy and Sean take a look at how BitTorrent works, using raw eggs and protective gear, and explain some of the legalities of using it for downloading content.
Episode 170: Batting away Virii - Anti-Virus signatures explained
5/4/2009
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Duration: 17:42

Andy and Sean explain how an anti-virus program protects your system against viruses and other harmful Internet mayhem, using fruit and a baseball bat.
Episode 169: Which browser is for you?
4/27/2009
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Duration: 24:31

Andy and Sean take a look at the newest version of the major web browsers, including IE8, Firefox 3, Opera 10, Safari 4, and the first version of Google Chrome.
Episode 168: To refill or not to refill: Ink cartridge refills examined
4/20/2009
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Duration: 18:00

Andy and Sean put on protective gear to explore the topic of ink cartridge refills, and whether or not you should buy cartridges only from the original manufacturer of your inkjet printer.
Episode 167: WPA2 Revisited - Setting up wireless security on your router
4/13/2009
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Duration: 24:26

Andy and Sean take another look at the same topic they looked at in episode number 1, setting up security on your wireless router, and show off what's new in the world of Wi-Fi Protected Access.
Episode 166: Build your own website!
4/6/2009
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Duration: 25:40

Andy and Sean take a look at what you should do if you want to create your very own web page, including getting a domain name, securing hosting, and designing the page itself.
Episode 165: Rock out with GarageBand
3/30/2009
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Duration: 25:38

Sean and Andy put on their Devo hats and show off some of the basics of creating your own music using Apple's GarageBand music-creation software. Andy also valiantly tries to defend the 80s.
Episode 164: Alternatively charged! Alternative-energy charging solutions
3/23/2009
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Duration: 21:05

Andy and Sean take a look at alternative ways to keep your gadgets all charged up, including solar energy, wind power...and they even talk a little bit about hydrogen and the hydrogen economy.
Episode 163: Shop Safely Online
3/16/2009
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Duration: 22:10

Andy and Sean talk about making sure you don't end up paying more than you mean to when you shop or do banking online, and give you some tips to keep your money safe in your own accounts.
Episode 162: Low-tech solutions for High-tech problems
3/9/2009
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Duration: 24:13

In this high tech world we often reach for high-tech solutions when our technology fails, but put your wallet away: Andy and Sean have some decidedly low-tech solutions to some of your high-tech problems.
Episode 161: Shorten that long URL!
3/2/2009
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Duration: 24:21

In episode 161, Got a web link that sixteen trillion characters long? Andy and Sean explain the anatomy of a long web address, and show you several ways to trim it down to something more manageable.
Episode 160: You're done with your PC ....Now what?
2/23/2009
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Duration: 21:23

In episode 160, When you're ready to get rid of a computer, don't just toss it on the curb! Andy and Sean talk about various options that are better for the environment, and show you how to safeguard your privacy, too.
Episode 159: Notebooks? No! Netbooks!
2/16/2009
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Duration: 22:07

In episode 159, Andy and Sean take a closeup look at the tiny new phenomenon known as netbooks, explain what they are, and talk about the pros and cons of these ultra-portable devices that are not-quite-notebooks.
Episode 158: The 411 on Windows 7
2/9/2009
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Duration: 21:23

In episode 158, Andy and Sean downloaded the beta of Microsoft's next operating system, Windows 7, and give you a tour of some of the new features, as well as some commentary on whether or not it's going to be worth the wait!
Episode 157: Soccer Mom's Tech Toolbox
2/2/2009
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Duration: 21:08

In episode 157, Andy and Sean take a look at some of the techie things every soccer mom--or any mom or dad, for that matter!--should have at their disposal in order to manage their day to day life with kids.
Episode 156: What IS Windows, anyhow?
1/26/2009
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Duration: 23:17

In episode 156, Andy and Sean look more closely at Microsoft's Windows operating system, explain a bit of its history, and take a quick peek at what's coming in the near future with Windows 7.
Episode 155: Weirdest of CES 2009
1/19/2009
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Duration: 19:56

In episode 155, Andy and Sean take a look at some of the weirdest items they found at this year's Consumer Electronics Show.
Episode 154: Best of CES 2009
1/13/2009
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Duration: 22:31

In episode 154, Andy and Sean show off some of their favourites from the 2009 Consumer Electronics Show.
Episode 153: CES 2009 Special Update!
1/5/2009
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Duration: 1:45

Andy and Sean hit the road to visit the Consumer Electronics Show 2009. Brought to you from the back of a limo, speeding down the Las Vegas strip, they guys introduce the Lab Rats plans for CES domination and also announce the latest butterscotch show called @ (at).
Episode 152: You got a new PC...what next?
12/22/2008
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Duration: 22:19

In episode 152, Got a brand new computer? Andy and Sean take a look at what you should do first, to make sure you stay safe and don't run into troubles down the road.
Episode 151: Mailbag #6
12/15/2008
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Duration: 22:16

In episode 151, Andy and Sean answer more of your viewer mail, and Cheryl shows off a program that will help you keep all your drivers up to date.
Episode 150: RAW Rah Rah: Why shoot your photos in RAW mode?
12/8/2008
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Duration: 18:40

In episode 150, Sean and Andy explain what it means to shoot pictures in RAW mode when you're using your digital camera, and go through some of the pros and the cons.
Episode 149: Turn Your Radio On: What is RF?
12/1/2008
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Duration: 23:34

In episode 149, Andy and Sean explain what "radio" is, and how it's used not only in radio and television, but in cell phones, routers and Bluetooth headsets. Cheryl makes a beanie to protect her head from the radio waves all around her.
Episode 148: Catch the WAV: Audio Files Explained
11/24/2008
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Duration: 25:06

In episode 148, Andy and Sean take a look at the different types of digital audio formats out there, explain how they differ, and take a quick look at the difference between lossless and lossy compression. Meanwhile, Cheryl digs into some of Audacity's many features.
Episode 147: Aaaaaaannnd...ACTION! Video Editing 101
11/17/2008
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Duration: 22:57

In episode 147, Andy and Sean take a look at what video editing is, and show off a few video editing programs. Cheryl takes a look at a DVD authoring package.
Episode 146: Protect Your Kids Online
11/10/2008
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Duration: 21:30

In episode 146, the Internet can be a scary place, so Andy and Sean show off some ways to help protect your kids while they're online. Cheryl also shows off parental control software.
Episode 145: Why's My Computer So Slooooooooowwwww?
11/3/2008
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Duration: 22:30

In episode 145, Andy and Sean look at the reasons that computers get slower over time, and show some quick and easy fixes that'll pep up your PC. To help even further, Cheryl shows off SpeedUpMyPC 2009.
Episode 144: Sit Up Straight! Computer Ergonomics 101
10/27/2008
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Duration: 20:42

In episode 144, Andy and Sean are both on the ball as they share tips about how to keep your body healthy while you're using your computer. Meanwhile, Cheryl shows off a program to help you prevent Repetitive Stress Injury.
Episode 143: Demystifying DPI
10/20/2008
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Duration: 17:36

In episode 143, Andy and Sean explain Dots Per Inch with the assistance of a giant green eyeball, and talk about why that's different from image resolution. Cheryl shows off an application that will help you save ink while printing.
Episode 142: Protect Your Identity
10/13/2008
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Duration: 26:07

In episode 142, Andy and Sean look at how to prevent identity theft, both online and offline.
Episode 141: The Power of PowerLine Networking
10/6/2008
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Duration: 21:55

In episode 141, Andy and Sean show off a technology that allows you to use your house's electrical wiring for networking your gadgets, and Cheryl helps tame Windows Vista's annoying authorization requests with Tweak UAC.
Episode 140: Mailbag #5
9/29/2008
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Duration: 26:14

In episode 140, Andy and Sean answer another batch of viewer questions, and Cheryl takes a look at an audio ripping and conversion program.
Episode 139: How to Mount a Flat Panel TV
9/22/2008
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Duration: 24:45

In episode 139, Andy and Sean learn tips and tricks on hanging a flat panel television.
Episode 138: What is Resolution?
9/15/2008
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Duration: 20:33

In episode 138, Andy and Sean explain how to measure the quality of a digital photo.
Episode 137: Do These Ones Go To 11?
9/8/2008
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Duration: 21:02

In episode 137, Andy and Sean look at the pros and cons of various types of headphones.
Episode 136: Fonts Demystified
9/1/2008
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Duration: 15:41

In episode 136, Andy and Sean explore the world of fonts.
Episode 135: iPhone 3G Demystified
8/25/2008
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Duration: 24:23

In episode 135, Andy and Sean weigh in on innovations of the iPhone 3G.
Episode 134: Surround Sound Demystified
8/18/2008
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Duration: 23:21

In episode 134, Andy and Sean responds to a viewer email about surround sound.
Episode 133: Mailbag #4
8/11/2008
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Duration: 24:07

In episode 133, Andy and Sean answer email about the PDF's, video card issues, virus/spyware infections, and more.
Episode 132: What is Centrino?
8/4/2008
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Duration: 26:22

In episode 132, Andy and Sean look at Intel’s laptop chipset technology.
Episode 131: PDF Demystified
7/28/2008
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Duration: 19:33

In episode 131, Andy and Sean explain at Adobe’s handy Portable Document Format.
Episode 130: Intro to Satellite Radio
7/21/2008
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Duration: 26:04

In episode 130, Andy and Sean take a look at digital satellite radio such as XM and Sirius.
Episode 129: FTP Demystified
7/14/2008
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Duration: 26:27

In episode 129, Andy and Sean explain file transfer protocol and how you can use it.
Episode 128: Touch Your Tech
7/7/2008
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Duration: 23:05

In episode 128, Andy and Sean look at current and future technology that can be controlled by touch.
Episode 127: How a NAT Router works
6/30/2008
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Duration: 24:49

In episode 127, Andy and Sean use tiny potatoes to explain how home network routers protect against inbound malware.
Episode 126: Storage on your Network
6/23/2008
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Duration: 24:59

In episode 126, Andy and Sean demystify network attached storage devices.
Episode 125: Mailbag #3
6/16/2008
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Duration: 28:19

In episode 125, Andy and Sean answer email about PVRs, NAT firewalls, and the annoying pop-up sound on the show titles.
Episode 124: Power Protection
6/9/2008
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Duration: 26:36

In episode 124, Andy and Sean demystify power bars, UPSes and more.
Episode 123: Intro to HijackThis
6/2/2008
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Duration: 24:39

In episode 123, Andy and Sean show how to get rid of browser hijackers with a free tool.
Episode 122: High-Def DVD Survival Guide
5/26/2008
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Duration: 23:56

In episode 122, Andy and Sean help you figure out what to do now the HD DVD/Blu-ray war is over.
Episode 121: PVRs Demystified
5/19/2008
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Duration: 30:03

In episode 121, Andy and Sean explain at personal video recorders, like TiVo and Windows Media Center.
Episode 120: Undelete Your Files
5/12/2008
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Duration: 15:30

In episode 120, Andy and Sean show you how to recover your deleted data (and your marriage!) using oranges.
Episode 119: Mailbag #2
5/5/2008
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Duration: 29:13

In episode 119, Andy and Sean answer viewer mail including fun stuff like file sharing, proxies, anonymizers and static IPs.
Episode 118: Should You Care About the Mac Book Air?
4/28/2008
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Duration: 20:36

In episode 118, Andy and Sean look at Apple’s new ultra thin, envelope friendly laptop.
Episode 117: Camera Settings Demystified
4/21/2008
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Duration: 25:52

In episode 117, Andy and Sean explain the weird settings on your SLR camera.
Episode 116: Next Generation Flash Drives
4/14/2008
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Duration: 17:16

In episode 116, Andy and Sean look at how flash memory could be a replacement for magnetic hard drives.
Episode 115: Next Generation E-Books
4/7/2008
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Duration: 22:29

In episode 115, Andy and Sean look at new electronic book devices including the Amazon Kindle and Sony Reader.
Episode 114: Dunk your Digicam!
3/31/2008
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Duration: 18:42

In episode 114, Andy and Sean explain waterproof ratings on gadgets.
Episode 113: Lab Rats Mailbag
3/17/2008
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Duration: 22:45

In episode 113, Andy and Sean respond to viewer questions about podcast production, external hard drives and frost-bite in a can.
Episode 112: What's Old Is MP3s Again
3/10/2008
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Duration: 16:23

In episode 112, Andy and Sean get jiggy on how to rip tunes to MP3 from a record player.
Episode 111: Do Adjust Your Set
3/3/2008
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Duration: 17:01

In episode 111, Andy and Sean explain aspect ratios using cheese and chocolate.
Episode 110: Browser Security
2/25/2008
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Duration: 18:43

In episode 110, Andy and Sean explore which browser to use for best system security.
Episode 109: How To Buy An LCD Monitor
2/18/2008
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Duration: 21:37

In episode 109, Andy and Sean discuss how to choose a flat panel display for your computer.
Episode 108: iPod Hacking
2/11/2008
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Duration: 23:34

In episode 108, Andy and Sean hack the iPod Touch to make it more useful. Plus, a little cat crack!
Episode 107: EULAs Demystified
2/4/2008
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Duration: 19:25

In episode 107, Andy and Sean looks at the legalese on software installations.
Episode 106: Macworld 2008
1/28/2008
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Duration: 24:52

In episode 106, Andy and Sean weren't there, but they still have a lot to say about the products launched at the Apple conference this year.
Episode 105: CES 2008 Bonus Footage
1/21/2008
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Duration: 24:25

In episode 105, Andy and Sean wrap up their coverage of CES in Las Vegas. Iincludes interviews with Linksys, Green Plug, Microsoft (check out Andy’s naughty Zune interview!), Samsung, and LG. And product previews from Crucial, Art Lebedev Studios, WowWee, Yujin, Roboware, Hagisonic, Hanulkid, iRobot, Kyodo America, Meccano, and Robotis.
Episode 104.4: CES 2008 Day 4
1/12/2008
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Duration: 26:13

In episode 104.4, Andy and Sean are live in Las Vegas at CES. Today's episode includes a special introduction by Patrick Norton and Roger Chang. Our interviews include Microsoft, SCOTTeVEST, Mio Technology, Skype, and LG.
Episode 104.3: CES 2008 Day 3
1/10/2008
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Duration: 22:13

In episode 104.3, Andy and Sean are live in Las Vegas at CES. Today's episode includes a special introduction by Dick Debartolo and interviews with Bits Ltd, Horizon Fuel Cell, FreePlay, Sony, Texas Instruments, Samsung, Griffin Technology, and Tangent Audio.
Episode 104.2: CES 2008 Day 2
1/8/2008
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Duration: 24:56

In episode 104.2, Andy and Sean are live in Las Vegas at CES. Today's episode includes a special introduction by Justine Ezarik and interviews with Sony, Sling Media, Belkin, Plantronics, Beceem Communications, Seagate, Data Evolution, Jawbone, XtremeMac, and Tonium.
Episode 104.1: CES 2008 Day 1
1/7/2008
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Duration: 20:29

In episode 104.1, Andy and Sean are live in Las Vegas at CES. Today's episode includes a special introduction by Veronica Belmont and interviews with Interactive Toy Concepts, Iqua Ltd, Human Touch, Logitech, WiQuest, Pinnacle Systems, Celestron, Moletech, and OmniMount.
Episode 103: Whatware?
12/17/2007
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Duration: 19:26

In episode 103, Andy and Sean reviews software, freeware and other types of "ware".
Episode 102: Intro to Mac OS X Leopard
12/10/2007
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Duration: 23:51

In episode 102, Andy and Sean look at why the new Mac operating system is a bit spotty.
Episode 101: 2007 Gift Guide
12/3/2007
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Duration: 23:20

In episode 101, Andy and Sean (and Elmo TMX) share their geek gift picks for the 2007 holiday season.
Episode 100: A Very Special Lab Rats
11/26/2007
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Duration: 47:55

In episode 100, Andy and Sean celebrate their 100th episode, and Sean stops Andy from taking off his pants again.
Episode 99: How to Hide your Data
11/19/2007
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Duration: 16:32

In episode 99, Andy and Sean show you how to conceal your secrets from the bad guys.
Episode 98: Vista to XP Networking
11/12/2007
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Duration: 26:56

In episode 98, Andy and Sean show how to share files between Windows computers.
Episode 97: Multi-Monitor Setups
11/5/2007
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Duration: 20:25

In episode 97, Andy and Sean show how to enable you computer to use two or more screens.
Episode 96: Hotspot Safety
10/29/2007
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Duration: 20:45

In episode 96, Andy and Sean look at issues around public Wi-Fi access points.
Episode 95: Trojan Horses Demystified
10/22/2007
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Duration: 15:21

In episode 95, Andy and Sean show how Trojan horses work using watermelons in a food demo.
Episode 94: User Accounts Demystified
10/15/2007
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Duration: 17:26

In episode 94, Andy and Sean show what the big deal is about user accounts on your Mac and PC.
Episode 93: LabRats at New Media Expo 2007 Part 2
10/9/2007
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Duration: 27:15

In episode 93, Andy and Sean attend the New Media Expo and interview individuals from Goodnight Burbank, Revision3, Midwest Teen Sex Show, iJustine.tv, and the author Podcasting For Profit.
Episode 92: LabRats at New Media Expo 2007
10/3/2007
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Duration: 28:23

In episode 92, Andy and Sean attend the New Media Expo and interview the producers and hosts of MacMost, This Week in Science, Torrent TV, NosillaCast, and PixelCorps.
Episode 91: Update your PC for Performance
9/24/2007
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Duration: 21:24

In episode 91, Andy and Sean talk about hardware upgrades for your computer.
Episode 90: How to Fix an iPod
9/17/2007
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Duration: 18:54

In episode 90, Andy and Sean show you how to repair and refurbish your Apple music player.
Episode 89: Troubleshoot an Ailing Network
9/10/2007
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Duration: 14:29

In episode 89, Andy and Sean show how to use ping and traceroute on a Mac and PC.
Episode 88: Decoding Computer Ads
9/3/2007
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Duration: 26:23

In episode 88, Andy and Sean help you translate the geek speak when you buy a computer.
Episode 87: A2DP is Not a Droid
8/27/2007
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Duration: 19:20

In episode 87, Andy and Sean demystify stereo Bluetooth technology.
Episode 86: Vampire Power Demystified
8/20/2007
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Duration: 17:54

In episode 86, Andy and Sean show much power gadgets use when they are off.
Episode 85: Software Troubleshooting in Vista
8/13/2007
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Duration: 19:38

In episode 85, Andy and Sean show you how to make older programs work in Vista.
Episode 84: iPhone Any Good?
8/6/2007
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Duration: 25:19

In episode 84, Andy and Sean weigh in on Apple's new smart phone, with special guest Ben Freedman.
Episode 83: How LCD and Plasma TV Work
7/30/2007
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Duration: 26:14

In episode 83, Andy and Sean break out the props to show how flat panel TV technology works.
Episode 82: Perpendicular Storage Demystified
7/23/2007
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Duration: 15:19

In episode 82, Andy and Sean use cheese to demo new hard drive tech.
Episode 81: Intro to Apple TV
7/16/2007
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Duration: 24:35

In episode 81, Andy and Sean take a closer look at the new set top box from Apple that links your computer to your TV.
Episode 80: Get Ready For High Definition DVDs
7/9/2007
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Duration: 24:54

In episode 80, Andy and Sean cover what gear you need to enjoy HD DVD or Blu-ray.
Episode 79: Software Surgery
7/2/2007
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Duration: 26:09

In episode 79, Andy and Sean show how to manually remove a program from Windows.
Episode 78: Understanding USB
6/25/2007
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Duration: 24:26

In episode 78, Andy and Sean explain the fundamentals of Universal Serial Bus plus some troubleshooting tips.
Episode 77: Transform XP into Vista
6/18/2007
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Duration: 17:28

In episode 77, Andy and Sean retrofit a Windows XP machine to look and work like Vista.
Episode 76: How to Video Podcast
6/11/2007
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Duration: 27:03

In episode 76, Andy and Sean turn the camera around and show you how they make Lab Rats.
Episode 75: What is WIMAX?
6/4/2007
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Duration: 19:10

In episode 75, Andy and Sean discuss the hot new wireless broadband technology.
Episode 74: Disk Utility Demystified
5/28/2007
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Duration: 21:20

In episode 74, Andy and Sean demo fun features of Disk Utility in Mac OS X.
Episode 73: Backup 101
5/21/2007
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Duration: 24:29

In episode 73, Andy and Sean take a look at backup technologies in Vista and on the Mac.
Episode 72: Smart Phones 101
5/14/2007
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Duration: 23:48

In episode 72, Andy and Sean discuss handheld computers that are also mobile phones.
Episode 71: How Flash Memory Works
5/7/2007
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Duration: 13:19

In episode 71, Andy and Sean show how flash memory works using Brussel sprouts.
Episode 70: Home Network Security 101
4/23/2007
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Duration: 32:30

In episode 70, Andy and Sean show you how to secure your wireless router.
Episode 69: Mac vs. PC
4/16/2007
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Duration: 25:16

In episode 69, Andy and Sean battle it out on the merits of the two platforms.
Episode 68: UAC Hacks
4/9/2007
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Duration: 22:05

In episode 68, Andy and Sean show how to tweak Windows Vista security.
Episode 67: Cars for Geeks
4/2/2007
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Duration: 14:07

In episode 67, while Sean's away, Andy checks in with Maurice Cacho who's been to the Toronto Auto Show.
Episode 66: Hot Windows Vista Features
3/26/2007
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Duration: 15:30

In episode 66, Andy and Sean show you hot Windows Vista tricks including how to use your USB key to boost system performance.
Episode 65: Home Network Basics
3/19/2007
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Duration: 17:05

In episode 65, Andy and Sean explain home network routers and Wi-Fi.
Episode 64: Vista Performance Tools
3/12/2007
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Duration: 15:59

In episode 64, Andy and Sean unveil how to monitor and tweak Windows Vista performance.
Episode 63: Run Windows on a Mac
3/5/2007
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Duration: 21:26

In episode 63, Andy and Sean show you how to run Windows (or Linux!) on your Apple computer.
Episode 62: How To Choose An MP3 Player
2/26/2007
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Duration: 17:54

In episode 62, Andy and Sean look at the pros and cons of flash vs. hard-drive storage on digital music players.
Episode 61: Windows Security 101
2/19/2007
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Duration: 19:44

In episode 61, Andy and Sean show you how to tighten security on Windows XP and Vista PCs.
Episode 60: Remote Control Your Mom's PC
2/12/2007
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Duration: 17:19

In episode 60, Andy and Sean demonstrate how you can solve tech problems at a distance and for free!
Episode 59: Intro to Windows Vista
2/5/2007
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Duration: 21:22

In episode 59, Andy and Sean take a tour of Windows Vista, the newly released operating system from Microsoft.
Episode 58: CES Robots!
1/29/2007
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Duration: 15:57

In episode 58, Andy and Sean show off bonus footage from CES 2007 including lots of robot footage.
Episode 57: Printers 101
1/22/2007
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Duration: 16:46

In episode 57, Andy and Sean take a look at the difference between laser, inkjet and multifunction printers.
Episode 56.4: CES 2007 Day 4
1/11/2007
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Duration: 17:20

In episode 56.4, Andy and Sean conclude their CES coverage with a look at some excellent gadgets.
Episode 56.3: CES 2007 Day 3
1/9/2007
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Duration: 16:47

In episode 56.3, Andy and Sean show off various gadgets and interviews from Viewsonic, Griffin, Linksys, EPOS, and Australian Simulation Control Systems.
Episode 56.2: CES 2007 Day 2
1/8/2007
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Duration: 17:40

In episode 56.2, Andy and Sean show off some cool new gadgets, including interviews with LG, Sling Media, Energizer, and Belkin.
Episode 56.1: CES 2007 Day 1
1/7/2007
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Duration: 18:14

In episode 56.1, Andy and Sean are live in Las Vegas at CES. Today's episode includes interviews with TDVision Systems, Samsung, Gennum, and Logitech.
Episode 55: Intro to Linux
12/18/2006
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Duration: 21:56

In episode 55, Andy and Sean take a look at Ubuntu, a popular version of the Linux operating system.
Episode 54: Defrag Demystified
12/11/2006
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Duration: 14:25

In episode 54, Andy and Sean show how disk defragmentation works using eggplant and zucchini.
Episode 53: Vista Business Launch
12/4/2006
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Duration: 22:53

In episode 53, Andy and Sean attend the unveiling of Windows Vista Enterprise in Toronto.
Episode 52: Super-Charge Skype
11/27/2006
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Duration: 17:49

In episode 52, Andy and Sean show you extreme router secrets that improve the quality of Skype phone calls.
Episode 51: Mac Maintenance
11/20/2006
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Duration: 17:25

In episode 51, Andy and Sean show you how to tweak your Mac.
Episode 50: Intro to Digital SLR
11/13/2006
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Duration: 18:27

In episode 50, Andy and Sean demystify pro-am digital cameras.
Episode 49: Core 2 Demystifed
11/6/2006
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Duration: 16:00

In episode 49, Andy and Sean discuss Intel's new family of microprocessors.
Episode 48: GPS Demystified
10/30/2006
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Duration: 17:55

In episode 48, Andy and Sean show how the global positioning system helps you navigate using a melon and tomatoes.
Episode 47: Upgrade Your Video Card
10/23/2006
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Duration: 19:54

In episode 47, Andy and Sean show you how to upgrade your video adapter so you can supercharge your system's graphics.
Episode 46: LabRats at Podcast Expo 2006 (Part 2)
10/16/2006
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Duration: 23:22

In episode 46, Andy and Sean interview more of the who's who of podcasting at the Podcast Expo, including Calli Lewis of GeekBrief.tv, Matt Harris of G4techtv's Torrent and more! Andy also makes a bit of a splash.
Episode 45: LabRats at Podcast Expo 2006 (Part 1)
10/10/2006
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Duration: 20:05

In episode 45, Andy and Sean attend the Podcast Expo and interview the who's who of podcasting including former Microsoft blogger Robert Scoble and RocktBoom's Andrew Baron.
Episode 44: DSL vs Cable Internet
10/2/2006
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Duration: 21:02

In episode 44, Andy and Sean discuss buying a broadband connection.
Episode 43: Upgrade Your Power Supply
9/25/2006
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Duration: 20:13

In episode 43, Andy and Sean show you how more power in your system solves ornery problems.
Episode 42: Mobile Phone Travel
9/18/2006
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Duration: 18:03

In episode 42, Andy and Sean offer tips for roaming overseas with your cellular phone.
Episode 41: High-definition DVD Primer
9/11/2006
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Duration: 23:27

In episode 41, Andy and Sean look at first generation players that play Blu ray and HD DVD discs.
Episode 40: CODEC 101
9/4/2006
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Duration: 21:12

In episode 40, Andy and Sean take a look at what audio and video codecs do, and show you how to troubleshoot your codec headaches.
Episode 39: New Gadgets From Creative
8/28/2006
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Duration: 14:22

In episode 39, Andy and Sean look at hot new audio and video gadgets from Creative.
Episode 38: Flash Your BIOS
8/21/2006
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Duration: 21:37

In episode 38, Andy and Sean show you how to fix weird blue screens by updating your BIOS.
Episode 37: Apple Worldwide Developers Conference
8/14/2006
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Duration: 18:50

In episode 37, Sean goes on location to the Apple Developers Conference, while Andy stays at home and moves house.
Episode 36: BIOS Basics
8/1/2006
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Duration: 20:02

In episode 36, Andy and Sean dig into the system BIOS to show you what the heck it does.
Episode 35: Registry 101
7/24/2006
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Duration: 14:08

In episode 35, Andy and Sean teach the basics of the Windows registry and show you how to clean it up!
Episode 34: Instant Notebook Upgrades
7/17/2006
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Duration: 16:21

In episode 34, Andy and Sean show you how to upgrade your notebook in 7 minutes!
Episode 33: TV to Computer Technology
7/10/2006
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Duration: 14:29

In episode 33, Andy and Sean look at the Slingbox and other living room multimedia technologies.
Episode 32: Build or Buy a PC
7/3/2006
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Duration: 17:46

In episode 32, Andy and Sean debate where you should design your own or buy a pre-built computer.
Episode 31: How To Be A Geek Musician
6/26/2006
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Duration: 19:55

In episode 31, Andy and Sean check in with Dee Long on how use technology to write songs.
Episode 30: How to Buy a Mac
6/19/2006
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Duration: 18:49

In episode 30, Andy and Sean talk about what to look for when shopping for a Mac.
Episode 29: Windows Vista Preview
6/12/2006
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Duration: 16:29

In episode 29, Andy and Sean take a look at the beta 2 version of Microsoft's new operating system.
Episode 28: Reinstall and Reformat
5/29/2006
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Duration: 16:41

In episode 28, Andy and Sean show you how to wipe the hard drive clean and install a fresh copy of Windows.
Episode 27: Keep Your PC Cool
5/22/2006
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Duration: 14:08

In episode 27, Andy and Sean show you how to groom the inside of your PC to optimize airflow.
Episode 26: How to Add a Second Hard Drive
5/15/2006
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Duration: 19:25

In episode 26, Andy and Sean show you how to easy add a second hard drive to your Mac or PC.
Episode 25: Multi-Core Processors Demystified
5/8/2006
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Duration: 10:50

In episode 25, Andy and Sean break out pudding and blenders to explain how the latest generation of processors double up their work.
Episode 24: VOIP Demystified
5/1/2006
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Duration: 13:40

In episode 24, Andy and Sean give you the scoop on voice over IP using gadgets and a few flying eggs.
Episode 23: Clean Your Computer
4/24/2006
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Duration: 13:59

In episode 23, Andy and Sean gives you the dirt on a little spring cleaning for your computer.
Episode 22: Understanding Drivers
4/17/2006
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Duration: 13:35

In episode 22, Andy and Sean talk about the importance of drivers, what they are, and how updates can keep your computer running smoothly.
Episode 21: RAM Upgrades Demystified
4/10/2006
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Duration: 13:35

In episode 21, Andy and Sean discuss how memory upgrades help improve your computer's performance and the pitfalls you should avoid.
Episode 20: Digital Cameras Demystified
4/3/2006
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Duration: 13:34

In episode 20, Andy and Sean check in with Panasonic to discover the critical components of a digital cameras and tips on how to buy the right one.
Episode 19: Hot New Panasonic Gadgets
3/27/2006
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Duration: 13:13

In episode 19, the Lab Rats go on location to get a insider look at new Panasonic gadgets including a high-tech massage chair, a stove that boils water in 45 seconds and a new exercise gadget that looks like a mechanical bull for the home.
Episode 18: TV Technology Demystified
3/13/2006
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Duration: 13:00

In episode 18, the Lab Rats take you to the HP Digital Living Room where they look at the pros and cons for LCD, plasma and projection TVs.
Episode 17: HDTV and More!
3/6/2006
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Duration: 14:14

In episode 17, the Lab Rats take a look at high-definition television and demystify all its strange specifications with TV guru John Kelly of Hewlett Packard.
Episode 16: A Trip To The DMZ
2/27/2006
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Duration: 14:46

In episode 16, the Lab Rats use marshmallows and a fake brick wall to explain how a DMZ works and how to use it to bypass your router's firewall for gaming, a home server and more.
Episode 15: Optical Media Explained
2/20/2006
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Duration: 15:25

In episode 15, the Lab Rats grab a bag of marshmallows and fire up their blow torch and show you how optical discs work. Includes coverage of CDs, DVDs and blu-ray and HD DVD.
Episode 14: MAC Address Filtering
2/13/2006
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Duration: 12:45

In episode 14, we explain MAC address filtering and show you how it can be used to make your home network more secure.
Episode 13 - Motherboard Anatomy
2/6/2006
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Duration: 17:31

In episode 13, we explain the anatomy of a motherboard. Includes a brief overview of components, such as RAM, processors, graphics cards and more!
Episode 12 - CES and Macworld Wrap Up
1/23/2006
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Duration: 14:22

In episode 12, we're wraping up our coverage of Macworld and CES. Also including interviews with Berry from Microsoft and Andy from DVD Insider.
Episode 11.2 - Macworld Expo 2006 Day 2
1/12/2006
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Duration: 16:22

In episode 11. (16:22), MacWorld coverage brought to you live from San Francisco with today's tech trends and the future of Apple products. Also including interviews with Leo Laporte, Amber MacArthur, and Patrick Norton.
Episode 11.1 - Macworld Expo 2006 Day 1
1/11/2006
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Duration: 15:34

In episode 11.1 (15:34), Macworld coverage brought to you live from San Francisco with today's tech trends and the future of Apple products. Also including interviews with your favorite Apple geeks.
Episode 10.4 - CES 2006 Day 4
1/10/2006
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Duration: 09:49

In episode 10.4 (09:49), we are taking you to Las Vegas to bring the frontlines of CES to your doorstep including interviews with Intel, Flexity, Mio, and Maxtor which are designing tomorrows technology today.
Episode 10.3 - CES 2006 Day 3
1/9/2006
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Duration: 10:27

In episode 10.3 (10:27), we are taking you to Las Vegas to bring the frontlines of CES to your doorstep including interviews with Intel, D-Link, Creative, and HP which are designing tomorrows technology today.
Episode 10.2 - CES 2006 Day 2
1/8/2006
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Duration: 09:13

In episode 10.2 (09:13), we are taking you to Las Vegas to bring the frontlines of CES to your doorstep including interviews with Sony Ericsson, Toshiba, and Jadoo which are designing tomorrows technology today.
Episode 10.1 - CES 2006 Day 1
1/7/2006
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Duration: 07:22

In episode 10.1 (07:22), we are taking you to Las Vegas to bring the frontlines of CES to your doorstep including interviews with companies designing today's cutting edge gadgets.
Episode 9 - Network File Sharing
12/19/2005
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Duration: 18:03

In episode 9 (18:03), we explain how to share files and folder on a home network for both Windows and Mac. Plus Boo makes a surprise appearance. There's also a special guest appearance by a famous tech geek. Download to find out who it is.
Episode 8 - RAID Explained
12/12/2005
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Duration: 20:16

In episode 8 (20:16), we explain exactly what RAID is, how it works, and the differences in RAID using simple sandwiches to explain the more complex ideas of RAID.
Episode 7 - Setup a Wireless Home Network
12/5/2005
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Duration: 15:12

In episode 7 (15:12), we show you how to setup your own wireless home network. Also discuss the speed and range of the differnet wireless techonologies.
Episode 6 - Home network primer
11/28/2005
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Duration: 14:41

In episode 6 (14:41), we demystify the set-up of a home network and discuss DSL and cable Internet connections. Plus Biff takes a header off the set in a rather humorous outtake.
Episode 5 - Hard drive upgrades made easy
11/21/2005
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Duration: 15:12

In episode 5 (15:12), we show you how to add a hard drive to a PC. Discussion about Serial ATA vs IDE/EIDE and external USB vs Firewire. We suffer a power outage, get interrupted by our pizza guy and enjoy the company of a studio audience that helps out with lighting.
Episode 4 - Super charge your Windows startup
11/14/2005
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Duration: 14:54

In episode 4 (14:54 mins), we show you how to use the hidden "msconfig" program in Windows XP to cut your Windows boot time in half. Plus also use it to remove unwanted programs including spyware from the registry. Biff makes an appearance and messes with the audio. And winter is here in Toronto, so we pull out the tuques.
Episode 3 - New camcorder features
11/7/2005
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Duration: 14:56

In episode 3 (14:56 mins), it camcorder time! But not just any old camcorder. Sean and Andy talk about new camcorder features using cheese and crackers. And, well, the usual mayhem ensues as you would expect with anything that includes cheese. Includes coverage of image stabilization (how it works and which type is better), tape vs. solid state memory cards and CCD (is 1 chip really better than 3?). We even tell you what CCD means. And Danish Havarti is featured. Mmmm.
Episode 2 - TV connectors demystified
10/31/2005
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Duration: 13:50

Andy and Sean turn the TV around and show you what the heck all those weird connectors are for. Includes coverage of coax, component, composite, HDMI, optical, DVI and S-Video! Plus Andy insults cable makers and Sean tries to apologies for him. Biff hangs out. Boo show up for the credits.
Episode 1 - Wireless router security
10/26/2005
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Duration: 14:50

Andy and Sean show you how to keep the bad guys and broadband bandits off your wireless network by enabling security features on your router. Includes show and tell on WEP and WPA secuirty technology. Biff the cat makes an appearance. Sean reveals hair gel secrets. And Andy shows off his inner wienerness.
Episode 0 - Test Run
10/17/2005
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Duration: 05:15

In episode 0, Yes, we're getting closer to our first episode. This was our test run to check lights, mikes and cats. QuickTime version initally, but we'll do multiple versions soon.

Lab Rats in WMV 720x480

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