Explain windows Live Messenger to a luddite. [more inside]
posted by ricochet biscuit on Mar 24, 2009 - 3 answers

What sports/activities have given up technology in order to be more fun/ require more skill? [more inside]
posted by meowzilla on Oct 21, 2008 - 32 answers

Low-tech repair help needed. I have acquired a Royal Quiet De Luxe manual typewriter (The World's First Truly Modern Portable Typewriter!). The booklet has a 1948 copyright date. The cord that pulls the carriage is broken, though, and I'm not sure exactly how to thread a replacement one. Does anybody have one of these typewriters who could take a photo of the back, or otherwise instruct me?
posted by fish tick on Apr 27, 2008 - 2 answers

Email machine for my Grandpa? Recently, several of my Grandfather's closest family members have moved away from him. We still communicate a lot on the phone, but I'd love him to be able to email us. [more inside]
posted by stewiethegreat on Dec 8, 2007 - 30 answers

I am interested in reading books that contain philosophical / intellectual critiques of science or scientism. I'm particularly interested in people whose critiques are based on exploring or defining the limits of science. I'm not at all interested in partisan / political critiques of science (i.e. George Bush - please skip this question). Can anyone recommend any books? [more inside]
posted by extrabox on Jul 27, 2006 - 35 answers

When, why and to what extent have seat belts moved from a mechanical trigger to an electronic one? [more inside]
posted by Terminal Verbosity on Jun 23, 2006 - 10 answers

I am tired of being connected and available all the time. To that end I have decided to drop my Treo PDA phone and just get a simple phone that will give me access to my calendar and contacts - but no email - no web - mobi-video - just plain old POTS. Any recommendations for simple cell phones?
posted by eaglemoon on May 17, 2006 - 16 answers