Tip: Find the best cloud storage system

ByABC News
July 6, 2012, 9:43 AM

— -- Question. There are too many companies that have their own cloud storage systems. I can't really tell the difference. Which one is the best?

Answer. There's not really a "best" system, but there probably is one that will work best for you. If you buy media from Amazon, iTunes or Google Play, stick with the matching cloud storage. Google Drive, iCloud and Amazon don't count purchases from their stores against your storage count. Each integrates unique features those companies' other products into the storage system, too. If you're not locked to one ecosystem, check out Dropbox or Microsoft SkyDrive. They both work with multiple devices and platforms and can offer more storage than the other three. If you want a full rundown of the most popular cloud storage systems, head to http://komando.com/news.

MacBook Pro with Retina?

Q. I'm looking at buying a MacBook Pro. Should I buy the 15-inch model with the Retina display?

A. That's the $2,200 question in many folks' minds. The Retina display on the Pro is absolutely stunning. Plus it has reduced glare and improved color and contrast. Serious photographers who use Apple's updated Aperture, iPhoto and Final Cut Pro software will love this machine. So will avid gamers. Unfortunately, the Retina display is way ahead of the curve when it comes to support from other apps and most Web pages. Text can be very hard to read until designers catch up. For casual users, the extra cost isn't worth it at this point. Stick with a less expensive model.

Increase or replace RAM?

Q. I know increasing my RAM will increase my processing power, but what about replacing my current RAM with new RAM?

A. Some computers — mostly laptops — only have one or two RAM slots. If these are already full, replacing the RAM is really your only choice. Even if your computer does have empty slots available, your existing RAM could limit how much you can add. Since RAM isn't expensive, replacing your RAM and starting from scratch is probably your best bet. This will help you avoid mismatching module sizes and speeds. If you're running Windows Vista or Windows 7, 4 gigabytes is a good amount of RAM. Make sure you do your research before you buy, since most computers only support one type of RAM. If you want a site to do the heavy lifting for you, check out the Crucial scanner. You can find it at www.crucial.com.

Setting up wireless surround sound

Q. I already have a pair of surround sound speakers I like and a good home audio receiver, but I'd like to remove the wires. Is that possible?

A. Definitely. You just need a transmitter that plugs into your audio unit and a receiver for your speakers. Several audio companies sell these together in a wireless kit for about $150-$250. Check with the manufacturer of your audio receiver before you buy anything — it might recommend a certain model. You shouldn't hear any drop in audio quality as long as you keep the speakers in the appropriate range, usually around 100 feet. Also, make sure you have enough outlets, because wireless transmitters and receivers usually require their own power source.

Find free Wi-Fi from your cable company

Q. I'm sick and tired of paying for a home connection and then paying for Wi-Fi when I'm around town. Is there anything I can do?