Tip: Run 32-bit programs in 64-bit Windows

— -- Question: I'm preparing to buy a new computer, but most of the ones I see run 64-bit Windows 7. I've been using 32-bit. Will my programs still be compatible?

Answer: The short answer is yes. Windows 7 64-bit has backwards compatibility with most 32-bit programs. Just start installing them — they should work fine. If you'd like to double check, you can use Microsoft's Upgrade Advisor to see whether your programs will make the jump. For programs that don't work, you can visit the program developer's website and see whether there is a new 64-bit version of the program.

Eliminate modem rental fees

Q: I just looked at my cable Internet bill and noticed an "equipment rental fee" of $7. What is this charge for? How can I trim it off my bill?

A: Providers sometimes give you an Internet modem when you sign up. However, they'll charge you a rental fee for this. It may not look like much, but it's basically like paying for an extra month or two of service every year. Instead, you can buy your own equipment to save cash over time. You'll pay about $100 for a gateway, or modem/router combination, but you might find a cheaper option. Call your ISP before buying anything — there could be equipment that doesn't work with your service or a special setup process. Just making the call might trim your bill, too. Many ISPs are willing to knock off charges or give you a cheaper bill to keep you as a customer.

Extend the charge on your iPhone 4S

Q: I love my new iPhone 4S, but the battery life is pathetic! Do you know any tips to give my iPhone more juice?

A: Apple says several known battery issues have been fixed in iOS 5.1, so make sure you're running that version or higher. The company also says that conditioning your battery will help. This means draining your battery until it dies and then fully charging it. You could also find luck resetting your network settings by going to Settings>>General>>Reset>>Reset Network Settings. Your phone will restart, but no data will be lost. Once it restarts, go to Settings>>General>>Location Services and turn off any apps that you don't use. This will prevent apps from broadcasting your location and draining the battery.

Switch from Kodak Gallery to Shutterfly

Q: I use Kodak Gallery. I received a message about a plan to automatically move my photos to Shutterfly. Should I back up my photos before the move, in case something goes wrong?

A: Kodak Gallery is closing to July 2. Customers who didn't opt out of the transfer will have their photos automatically moved to Shutterfly. Since Kodak will be transferring approximately 5 billion photos starting next month, there's bound to be hiccups. Thankfully, Kodak still offers the chance to back up your photos onto DVDs. This starts at $10 for up to 250 photos. If you already have copies saved to your computer, I wouldn't bother. You can download any photos that are in albums to your computer using Kodak EasyShare software to save that cash, as well.

Save money on textbooks

Q: I'm starting college in a couple of months, and I'd like to save money on my textbooks. Do you recommend e-books or used textbooks?