Things You Didn't Know You Could Do With Google

Every time I turn around, Google's come up with something new, cool, or innovative. It's no wonder it has Microsoft on the run.

Here are a few Google features you might not have known about.

Calculate This: You can use Google Calculator to crunch numbers and figure out conversions. Try entering 12*12 or 16+16+16 or even 12*12+16+16+16+8-100 and see what happens; you can also run more complex equations, like G*(6e24 kg)/(4000 miles)^2). Google Calculator handles conversions of all types, such as 3 ounces in tablespoons, 16 dollars in euros, or 19999GB to MB).

Find That Number: You can track FedEx, UPS, and U.S. Postal Service shipments just by sticking the tracking number into Google's search field; do the same with zip and area codes, vehicle IDs, patent numbers, airplane registration numbers, and even UPC codes.

Make Me Special: Google has special sites just for you. There's one for Firefox users, another for Linux users, and a spot for those of you who can't get enough of Microsoft

Alert Me! Google sends me an e-mail every time it sees a new occurrence of "steve bass PC World," "steve bass PC Annoyances," or keywords about my various hobbies and interests. If you haven't tried Google Alerts, you're missing out on a terrific service.

Get daily, weekly, or immediate search results with Google Alerts