Q I need a new TV, either 2-D or 3-D, and I don't want to make a purchase that doesn't make sense. I'm not really a technology guy, but the 3-D TV demo I saw at a store was amazing. Do you think that 3-D is far enough along the development curve? My cable TV company isn't saying anything.
RICHARD POWELL, ELK RIVER
A While three-dimensional TVs are available, there aren't many 3-D shows yet, and there may not be for several years, according to technology website Gigaom at tinyurl.com/23kh24s. What's more, 3-D TV sets cost several thousand dollars each once you include 3-D glasses and a 3-D DVD player, says Consumer Reports at tinyurl.com/23p96gf.
But, if you're determined to be a 3-D TV owner, read the Startribune.com story "10 things to know before you go 3-D" at tinyurl.com/27jauy7.
Q I use a Linksys router with my desktop PC, but about once a day it disconnects from my Comcast Internet service. I then have to unplug the router, wait a few seconds and plug it in again. Is there a way to fix this? Do I need a different router, or is there a Comcast issue?
RON KNAPP, BURNSVILLE
A I don't think it's a Comcast problem. It's more likely that your router is getting out of sync with your cable modem, and that rebooting the router restores its original settings. I solved a similar problem by getting a new router.
However, before you go to that expense, check for downloadable software updates for your router at the Linksys website, tinyurl.com/38ur5zd. Also, contact Comcast (see tinyurl.com/25vopps) to see if its network monitoring equipment shows that your modem is working properly.
