Tell me if this has ever happened to you: You've got a TV, a stereo — maybe even an old cassette recorder — and you have a question about how it works.

Consult the manual!

The problem, of course, is that most of us have no earthly idea where the manual is.

That is why you should bookmark a Web site called Retrevo.com.

Retrevo works like magic to help you find manuals, setup documents, reviews — even blogs dedicated to your gear.

I typed in the model number of my little cassette recorder and within seconds, I was examining documents (dated 1998) explaining the basic features of the product. There was also a link to a copy of the full original operation manual.

If it's a product that's still available (new or used), Retrevo will also point you toward sources where you can buy it (or purchase parts).

Sure, it's possible to find most of this same information by using Google or another search engine, but because Retrevo is focused on "matching people and electronics," you may come up with the info you're looking for with a lot less hassle.

The Internet is all about interactivity, so why not have a hand in judging the best of the Web?

The Webby Awards has four broad categories for nominees: Web site, online film and video, interactive advertising and mobile Web sites. There are dozens of sub-categories under each umbrella.

Earlier this week, the "Oscars of the Internet" raised the curtain on this year's nominees, from traditional sites like The New York Times to specialized Web outposts like Type City, an innovative online showcase for decorative lettering and fonts.

Now while members of the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences will choose the Webby Award winners in each category, you're invited to take part in the parallel People's Voice honors.

You may not be familiar with all the nominees, but it's a great way to familiarize yourself with some of the most creative content on the Web.

The Webby Awards People's Voice voting continues through May 1, and participants will have a chance to win a Nokia N95 smartphone worth about $700.

There's another new way for you to share your views online, and what you say could have an impact on the daily habits of millions of coffee-drinkers around the world.

MyStarbucksIdea.com is a simple concept — Starbucks wants to know what changes you'd make at your local caffeine emporium if you were in charge.

It is entirely possible that your idea has already been suggested in the short time since Web site was established. Lower prices? Yes, that one's very high on the list (though I'm not sure I'd hold my breath waiting for the implementation).

Another popular idea is to implement a customer loyalty program to keep regulars coming back with free drinks and discounts.

MyStarbucksIdea is set up so that you can simply add your vote to existing suggestions. How about using frozen coffee ice cubes for frozen drinks for a better flavor experience? Love it!

Among the most fervent appeals is for free Wi-Fi Internet access instead of the "pay-as-you-go" service that's been a staple of Starbucks for several years. Road warriors will be pleased to learn that that request is already on the way to being fulfilled. "We're thrilled to be rolling out two hours of complimentary Wi-Fi service for customers who have a registered Starbucks Card," says Starbucks' Kevin Shawver in a message to visitors.

Companies that transact business with consumers traditionally use surveys or "focus groups" to take the pulse of their customers. It seems to me that Starbucks has stepped the process up a notch or ten by using the Internet to turn what's usually a secretive and closed-door procedure and opening it up to the whole world.

There's a danger in this, of course, that some loyal customers might feel slighted if their suggestions aren't adopted.

There's also the very real possibility that excellent ideas will be quickly usurped by smaller Starbucks competitors that can implement changes faster because of their size.

But I think most consumers will find it refreshing that a big company like Starbucks really does want to hear what coffee-drinkers have to say, and they will feel a renewed connection to the product simply by being able to have a say in how the business is run.

It's an asset Starbucks can't put on its profit and loss statement, but an asset nonetheless.

People are always asking me what to do with old computer gear they no longer need.

This Saturday, April 12, a company called Intechra in Carrollton is hosting an Earth Day 2008 recycling event. Bring your used computers, printers and monitors to their location at 2490 Eisenhower Street, about one mile east of Interstate 35E on Frankford Road.

If your gear is suitable, they'll make any necessary repairs and direct it to a charity or other group that can use it.

Otherwise, Intechra will completely recycle all the components, with nothing going to a landfill.

It's a great service, and it's completely free. Products will be accepted from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Click here for more info.

Watch Computer Corner every week on News 8 Midday at noon (usually seen on Wednesdays), or online any time.

E-mail askwalt@wfaa.com