Andy TaylorTechtalkRadio

Computer Engineering for Babies! An Author Interview!

In this Segment for TechtalkRadio, Host Shawn DeWeerd and Andy Taylor talked with Author Chase Roberts about his books Computer Engineering for Babies” and “Computer Engineering for Big Babies”.

Chase discussed the development of a book that introduces basic computer concepts to young children. Chase shared his inspiration, which came from his child’s fascination with light switches. He decided to create a book that would deliver on the promise of the title, introducing concepts like gates and circuits in a way that a child could understand. Chase faced numerous challenges in the production process, including issues with circuit board design and soldering. His wife’s encouragement helped him persevere and eventually launch a successful Kickstarter campaign, which exceeded his expectations.The Story of that discovery on Reddit and its embracing of the concept is uplifting. Chase shared his excitement about the project’s success, particularly after a Reddit post about it went viral, raising $12,000 on the first day. Shawn, who found the book through the Reddit post, expressed his appreciation for the unique concept and its potential as a learning tool for children.

Chase tells Shawn and Andy how he initially tried using discrete components but found it challenging to achieve the desired nuance. He then switched to using an Arduino, which allowed him to write code for more nuanced light readings. He shared his experience of creating the first book, which was a success, and then working on a second book that added switches and LEDs. Chase mentioned that the second book took two years to complete, highlighting the challenges he faced, particularly with designing the switch placements.

Andy and Shawn expressed their appreciation for Chase’s work and encouraged listeners to take a look at his books. For More information check out https://www.computerengineeringforbabies.com

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Episode #432 – The Blinky Lights and Flashing Buttons Are Alive!

For this Week’s Episode of TechtalkRadio,  Andy and Shawn discussed the recent announcement from DJI about the New Osmo Mobile 7, a handheld device that stabilizes video footage in three axes. Andy ask Shawn to explain to the listeners the purpose of a Gimble Arm and what it can accomplish. Shawn explained that it’s designed for mobile devices, providing smooth footage even in challenging terrains. The device is priced at $89 for the standard version and $149 for the pro version, which includes additional features such as a wireless receiver for DJI mics, an 8-inch telescoping arm, gesture control, and a built-in light. Shawn expected the announcement to be a different product and after recording we discovered it is the DJI RS 4 Mini which we will discuss next week. 

The action camera market is still providing some great solutions for videographers and storytellers and the guys  focus on major players like DJI, GoPro, and Insta360. They noted that GoPro has been in the business for a long time and has been successful in the market. Shawn shared his experience with various GoPro models, particularly the Hero 3 Plus, which he considers his favorite.  Shawn then listed five companies that attempted to enter the action camera market  including Nikon, Kodak, Contour, Garmin, and Sony. 

Shawn and Andy welcome to the show Author Chase Roberts, Founder of Baby Step Books to discuss his fun books  “Computer Engineering for Babies” and “Computer Engineering for Big Babies”.  Chase discussed the development of a book that introduces basic computer concepts to young children. Chase shared his inspiration, which came from his child’s fascination with light switches and decided to create a book that would deliver on the promise of the title, introducing concepts like gates and circuits in a way that a child could understand. Chase faced numerous challenges in the production process, including issues with circuit board design and soldering. His wife’s encouragement helped him persevere and eventually launch a successful Kickstarter campaign, which exceeded his expectations. He shared his experience of creating the first book, which was a success, and then working on a second book that added switches and LEDs. Chase mentioned that the second book took two years to complete, highlighting the challenges he faced, particularly with designing the switch placements. 

A Listener Question sent in from Martha in La Quinta inquired about using a Windows XP Computer to play old favorite games however she was told by a friend to not power up the XP System because it could get a Virus? Andy and Shawn let Martha know while connecting to the internet is not recommended playing the local games on the system should be fine.  This Gave Shawn and Andy a chance to discuss their experiences with old games and computers. Andy mentioned his fondness for playing old games like Joint Ops and Castle Wolfenstein, while Shawn reminisced about playing Diablo 2 and other classic games. A question from Chad had Andy looking for some input on Starlink and its reputation for service in the Southern Arizona Area, Shawn tells us about the different connect options. 

Tune in for all this and more on TechtalkRadio!

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Andy TaylorBackups, Data Recovery Software, Data Retrieval, EaseUS, software, Tucson Computer Repair

News13 Segment –  Bringing those Digital Files Back to Life!

For this Weeks News13 Segment on KMSB Fox 11, We focus on Recovering Files after they have been deleted. It can happen through Accidental Deletion or after a drive failure, finding files on other no longer used drives, even if they have been reformated! We have used other programs in the past and found the layout for EaseUS to be a great solution for all levels of Tech Knowledge.

We Featured the EaseUS Data Recovery Program to help find files that were deleted or Lost. After a Recent Hard Drive Failure, we have had to restore files, some deleted and found the Program from EaseUS – Data Recovery Software to be a great solution, and the company offers a Free Version for those with easy small file recovery needs, Find them at https://www.easeus.com

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Episode 431 – What Tech Gift Would You Get for Yourself?

This Week on TechtalkRadiom Justin, Shawn, and Andy discuss tech gifts, personal projects, and listener questions. Justin shares his preference for buying tech gifts for himself, while Shawn talks about his ongoing family photo archiving project using the Epson FF680 Photo Scanner. The team also covers converting VHS tapes to digital, with Shawn recommending a VHS-to-hard-drive converter and a time-based corrector and Andy also recommending The Diamond Multimedia Converter 

Justin updates the crew on Project Zomboid, mentioning his recent voiceover work for a game mod. Andy expresses interest in the game, available on Steam, and Justin highlights its low system requirements and engaging gameplay.

The team breaks down Sony’s recent 24-hour outage and revisits the 2011 Sony hack, which compromised 77 million PlayStation accounts. This leads to a discussion on data security, warning against free credit monitoring services that can waive legal rights. They also share tips on using multiple email addresses to track potential data breaches.


A listener asks if a home-based business needs a website or if social media is enough. Justin shares his experience with Wix for an affordable, all-in-one solution. The team agrees that a website adds professionalism and stability, especially when paired with strong social media strategies.

Another listener wants to convert Windows Media files to other formats. Shawn recommends Handbrake, VLC Player, and FFMPEG for free, reliable conversions, explaining the benefits of each. The team also touches on Adobe Media Encoder and Roxio Creator, with MP4 suggested as the best format for compatibility.

Justin and Andy compare health tracking devices. Justin prefers the Oura Ring over the Pixel Watch, noting its FSA eligibility for savings. Andy highlights the new Apple Powerbeats Pro 2, which monitor heart rate during workouts. The team also discusses sleep apnea detection and arrhythmia monitoring in both the Oura Ring and Apple Watch.


Finally, they share their browser and extension preferences. Justin dislikes Chrome’s heavy resource usage and recommends Firefox, Edge, and Opera instead. Shawn agrees but acknowledges Chrome’s work compatibility. Andy shares his experience with Internet Connection Monitor, while Shawn mentions using AdBlock Plus.

Tune in for all this and more on TechtalkRadio!

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Episode #430 – Do You Remember Your First Computer?

In this week’s TechtalkRadio show, Andy and Shawn revisit the USB hub Andy purchased from a discount store—and this time, they crack it open! They discuss their experiences with USB hubs and the potential dangers of using unverified or suspicious USB devices. They emphasize the importance of purchasing from reputable vendors and being cautious when using public USB ports.

Thinking about getting a new laptop? Shawn shares his recent purchase of a Lenovo ThinkPad T17 for his in-laws, explaining how it met their budget and needs. He walks through some of the challenges they faced while setting up the new computer, particularly issues with transferring settings and favorites—most of which revolved around Microsoft’s OneDrive. After some configuring, the laptop was set up to their liking, and Shawn details a few of the key steps he took.

Andy is joined by Micki and Steve, showrunners and producers of the upcoming Vintage Computer Festival SoCal, taking place in Orange, California, on February 15th and 16th, 2025. The event, expected to draw over a thousand attendees, stems from the organizers’ passion for vintage computing and their goal of fostering a community for enthusiasts. Inspired by similar events nationwide, they have been working on this festival for about four years. Attendees can expect to see a variety of vintage computers and related memorabilia while sharing their experiences and memories of their first computers. The organizers also run a YouTube channel, VintNerd, where they share their interests and conduct fascinating interviews. Check them out at www.youtube.com/@TheVintNerd and on their website at https://thevintnerd.com/index.html.

Andy and Shawn return to discuss their love for electronics and tinkering. Andy shares his experience with Elenco Snap Circuits, including the Top Secret Spy Kit and the Snap Circuits Jr. Explorer Kit. These STEM-focused kits allow users ages 7 to 107 to experiment with circuits—no soldering required! Andy demonstrates one of the projects he built with the Spy Kit: a motion detector, which turned out to be a fun and rewarding project.

Shawn also shares some exciting news—he will be attending the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show in Las Vegas for the first time! He looks forward to networking and learning about the latest in broadcasting technology.

Finally, Andy and Shawn discuss a book called Computer Engineering for Babies and its educational value in teaching young children the basics of computer functions in an engaging and accessible way.

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