Q I have several table radios that have developed a problem with the volume-control knob. Touching the dial causes static noise along with difficulty in adjusting volume. What causes this problem, and is there an easy fix?
A That problem is common with older electronics and is caused by dust in the volume-control pot.
Electrical contact cleaner spray usually does the trick. Just open the cover of the radio (be careful that the radio has been unplugged for a while), and spray the contact cleaner into the pot behind the volume- control knob. Work it in by twisting the dial.
While you are cleaning the volume control, be sure to clean any other rotary dials such as the tuner and the source selector or balance controls if it is a receiver. Dust in any of these can cause problems.
If you don't want to try this, a professional cleaning at a local electronics repair shop shouldn't cost much.
Kodak camera still good buyQ Do you still recommend the Kodak Z990 EasyShare Max superzoom camera now that Kodak is getting out of the camera business?
A I still consider the EasyShare Max a good camera and a good buy at current prices, which hover around $200. I wouldn't recommend spending more than $225 to get one, though. The camera has a feature set that is unique, and I have thought about snagging one while I still can.
Although Kodak is honoring warranties on its existing digital cameras, you might want to consider an extended warranty. Another superzoom camera under $200 worth considering is the Olympus SZ-12. It lacks the Kodak's viewfinder but is compact.