Moving in a Wired World

When changing e-mail addresses, beware. Semi-retired software developer Steve Auerbach notes that ISPs may not forward e-mail to your new online home. If you use Web-based e-mail like Google's Gmail or Microsoft's MSN, you're good to go. But if leaving a domain such as cox.net or verizon.net, you may want to maintain your old account with forwarding to your new e-mail address enabled while you notify correspondents and update list and Web site registrations. Commercial services such as Return Path ( http://www.returnpath.net) help the world keep in touch with you.

If the new place's phone or cable jacks don't match your equipment placement, or you want to work in different spots, WiFi, or wireless networking, can bridge gaps but also can be daunting if it's new to you.

Long-time technologist Jeff Savit in New Jersey suggested a low-tech solution, networking via electrical wiring, "if in an old house where traditional network cabling would be traumatic, or when walls/distance prevent good wireless connection."

Naman noted that where he used to live in Maryland, one cellular service didn't work and another did. "When I moved to Virginia," he said, his phone "was dropping 20 percent of calls, which they said would be fixed if I upgraded to a new, hugely expensive model." He said he switched carriers less than 30 days after moving.

Marv Engel, who recently moved from Montgomery County to Dedham, Mass., suggested numbering containers, logging their contents and tagging them with room destinations. This is particularly important for finding things like toilet paper and underwear, he said, "not to speak of connecting cables, screwdrivers, backup disks, et cetera."

For short moves, self-service but pampered treatment for electronics is worthwhile. Auerbach moved his own desktop computer. Not trusting movers, he "disconnected everything, put it in the back of my car, seat-belted the monitor and delivered these fragile items myself."

Barbara Conn, a recently moved D.C. publishing strategist, writer and editor, suggested adding several hours to any interval a service provider gives for installation. A good tactic, she added, is using one phone number for setting up all utility accounts for ease in record keeping and collecting messages.

She also warned about scheduling too many simultaneous service installations in a small living space or installers disrupting other connections when manipulating theirs. And because multiple installer visits can boost fees, buying a service bundle -- telephone, Internet and television -- can save money.

After moving, expect delays and annoyances even if you have done everything right. You may be pleasantly surprised, but sometimes service is not completely functional for days or even weeks.

Anticipating a move is often more painful than making it. But looking forward to improved, organized and reliable technology can sustain your motivation through those "Why am I doing this?" moments. And you won't be calling on Edison and Bell for tech support any longer.

Gabe Goldberg is a Washington area freelance writer and technology consultant who is a long-time volunteer and leader with the Capital PC User Group.