An "IDE" hard drive just means that the hard drive complies with a standard called IDE. All hard drives you buy today are compliant - both PATA and SATA hard drives.

When I say "IDE hard drives are cheap" what I really mean is that the old PATA standard drives are cheap. Up until SATA drives became popular, PATA drives were just called "IDE drives" because that's all there was. Clear as mud? Check out the PATA and SATA definitions I linked to above. They should set the record straight.

After you pick one up, rest assured that they're very easy to install. This IDE installation video should help. Be sure to reference your computer's manual to make sure you have PATA connections on your motherboard before you buy this kind of hard drive. Most computers do but some very new PCs do not.

You've probably heard hype one way or another about how to clean your LCD monitor. Well I'm here to "clear this up" once and for all. (You've got to give me credit for at least attempting humor!)

You actually DO need to take special care when cleaning your LCD monitor but you don't need ultra-expensive sprays and towels. For a couple of dollars, you can pick up the right cloth and create enough of your own cleaning solution to last until LCDs are out of style!

See my How to Clean a Flat Screen Monitor guide for all the details!

Have you had luck with a particular product? Have any costly LCD cleaning accident stories to share? (I once permanently discolored a 21" LCD monitor using the wrong cleaning solution) Be sure to comment below!