TODAY'S TOURBUS TOPICS: FIREFOX V3 / LINUX / ONLINE SHOPPING TIPS

In today's TOURBUS, you'll learn about the cool stuff in Firefox 3, and how to run Linux right on your Windows desktop. I've also got some tips for smarter online shopping, and power tools to help both buyers and sellers on eBay. Read on!

Firefox Version 3: Should You Upgrade?

If you're a Firefox fan, here's some good news. Earlier this week, Firefox 3 Beta 1 was released to the public. So your intrepid busdriver downloaded the new Firefox browser and took it for a beta test drive. In the process, I found a bunch of cool new features, and a few caveats.

The Good: Firefox V3 is faster, more stable, and has better security features. Hundreds of memory leaks have been found and plugged. There are lots of new usability features for both novices and power users. The Bad: Firefox V3 cannot leap tall buildings in a single bound. Oh, and it doesn't work with some web-based mail systems. There are a few other quirks, but this is a TEST version.

Learn about all the new features in Firefox 3 Beta 1, what to watch out for, and find out how to download and try it yourself:

FIREFOX - http://askbobrankin.com/firefox_version_3.html

How to Run Linux Under Windows

Linux is noted for it’s stability, security from spyware and viruses, and as the emblem of affordable computing. Perhaps you're ready to explore Linux, but you don't have an extra computer laying around. I've got good news - you can run Linux right alongside Windows, on the computer you already have.

Even better, there are THREE ways to run Linux on a Windows computer, depending on your needs and your level of tech savvy. Here's how:

LINUX - http://askbobrankin.com/running_linux_in_windows.html

Smarter Online Shopping

I still meet people who tell me they've never purchased anything on the Internet. I always tell 'em that it's safer to use a credit card online than in a department store, and there are so many tools to help you find the right product AND save money in the process.

Have you experienced the frustration of making a purchase, only to find that very same item offered somewhere else at a lower price? Smart shoppers can eliminate this problem and avoid other snafus by using online comparison shopping tools, coupon finders and product review sites before the purchase.

Even if you think you're a savvy online shopper, I'm certain that you'll benefit from at least one of the NINETEEN tips for smarter and safer online shopping here:

SHOPPING - http://askbobrankin.com/online_shopping.html

Tips and Tricks for eBay: Buyers and Sellers

Are you thinking about selling some stuff on eBay to make a little money for the holidays? Or maybe you've already decided to skip the malls and find some holiday gifts on eBay. Whether you're a buyer or a seller, I've got some power tips that will help you succeed in the eBay aution marketplace.

Maybe you've been confused by the different bidding options on eBay, or watched in frustration as someone outbid you at the last moment. My tips will tell you when to bid, how to use advanced research tools to determine the true market value of a item, and about software to help you win auctions at the best price.

BUYERS - http://askbobrankin.com/ebay_tips_for_buyers.html

If you're a seller, you'll learn how to maximize profits by building a good reputation, setting the right bid price, and selecting the best time to END your auction.

SELLERS - http://askbobrankin.com/ebay_tips_for_sellers.html

That's all for now, see you next time! -- Bob Rankin