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Yes Virginia, You Really Can Solve Your Windows Problems

Image representing Windows as depicted in Crun...

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Unless you have the money to buy a new laptop or PC every six months, you have likely been faced with some of the most common Windows problems. Learning how to detect these three problems and how to fix them will mean you will have a faster and safer computer for far longer.

  1. Slow Boot: One of the most common problems faced by computer owners is a slow boot up. One of the best ways to fix this is to change how many programs run during the start-up process. The process is easy. Click Start and Run. Enter ‘msconfig’ into the box and hit enter. The system Configuration utility will appear. Choose the start-up tab and make changes as you see fit. Reboot and you will see the difference.
  2. Slow Run: Over a period time, you will see a decrease in the speed of your computer. Many users overlook common maintenance tasks that can make this easier. Regularly defragment of your hard drive to improve your performance speed. You can even schedule this process to make it easier.
  3. Pop Ups: If you have seen an increase in the number of pop ups, there is a pretty good chance your computer has a virus. Purchase a top quality anti-virus program and use it. Avoid the ‘free’ programs. These are not as robust.

Remember that you should regularly reboot your computer. It is also a good idea to manually check any Windows updates before installing them. A bit of care is all it really takes to keep your PC or laptop running smoothly for more than a few days.

Filed Under: Common Problems, Computers, Operating Systems Tagged With: , ,

Upgrading Your Computer to Increase Speed

Slow computers are such a drag. They decrease your speed when connecting online (despite how fast your connection speed is) and they prevent programs from running efficiently. So what can you do to increase speed? The answer is to upgrade your computer.

RAM

RAM, random access memory, is the number one way to increase your computer’s speed. RAM is what your computer users to store data. Computers typically have around 2 or 4 GB of RAM and you can’t buy a computer today with less (if you see one selling with less, you know you’ll have to add more later). Computers usually only have so many slots for RAM, so you’ll want to check into how many “sticks” of RAM your computer can hold and what types of RAM your computer has in it at the moment so you can upgrade.

Processor

The second way that you can increase your computer’s speed is with a faster processor. Because processors deal with information in a computer, the faster the processor, the faster programs will come up and function and the faster that websites, such as 888 ladies, will appear on your screen. The big thing in processors was dual-core processors, which have two separate processing cores that are used to interpret information. Now there are quad-core and hexa-core processors and who knows how many cores future processors will have. Replacing your processor with one of these faster components will greatly improve your computer’s performance.

There are many more computer components that help with the speed of your computer, but these are the two main ones that you’ll want to consider upgrading.

Filed Under: Easy Fixes, Operating Systems Tagged With: , ,

Organize Your Windows Taskbar

Some people never consider that they have the opportunity to customize their Windows task-bar. They see the start menu and figure that it is what it is and that is how Windows works. Actually there are  a few customizations that you can do to better suit your needs.

The first option is the size of the task-bar. Place your pointer over the top edge of the task-bar and a line with arrows in either direction will appear. One can left click and re-size the task-bar.  For people that open many applications at once and need to go back and forth between them, you can increase the size of the task bar. This is suggested only for people that have a larger monitor as this will take up more space on your desktop. For those that have a smaller monitor such as someone using a Netbook, you can minimize the task-bar off the screen.

Another option is to include a quick launch for certain programs. To enable the quick launch right click on the task-bar and left click on properties. In this properties menu along with the quick launch are a number of other options. You can add and delete whatever software you would like to have shortcuts to in the quick-launch. Another option listed here is to keep the task-bar on top of the window, another space saving option.

For many people their work space is important to them and with all the menu bars you can quickly reduce your space where you can actually work. Using the tools that customize the task-bar can help you optimize your space. Make sure your computer is working for you not making you mad.

Filed Under: Computers, Operating Systems Tagged With: , ,

Update Your Software

It may surprise some people how many software programs they have on their computer. For a computer to function and do all the things we want them to do, it takes more than just an operating system, like Windows. For the computer to function one must install a multitude of programs. some of these program come installed on the computer and some of them are embedded in the operating system. Even those programs will have to be regularly updated.

Often, the software that comes installed on your computer already needs to receive updates by the time you receive the computer at your home. The speed and change of computer systems requires that one keeps up with these changes if you intend to stay compatible. Compatibility refers to the software being able to function with the files that are being used today.

You may be happy using Microsoft Office 2000, and that may be working for you. It is important to remember that updating your software is not the same as switching to a new version. Updating software refers to making sure you have the most up to date code in the software you are using. Do you want your older program to work with files produced on newer programs. Sometimes making sure you have the updates will allow them to function.

One of the most important reasons to update your software is security. In order to keep your documents and other files safe it is important to have the most current security information in your system. This is very true for your operating system, web browser and your email program if you use one.

Checking for updates is usually fairly simple and many programs come with an automatic update option. To check for updates in many programs it is done by using the help menu. Keep your programs updated regularly.

Filed Under: Operating Systems, Technology Tagged With: , ,

Top Ten Most Downloaded Windows Utilities

By now we’d expect an OS to be all-encompassing, but there’s just too much available now for it all to be put into any one OS. And, sticking to an OS alone would be like eating only vanilla ice cream all the time, when there’s so many toppings available. There are little programs that can help enhance the user familiarity.
Windows calls them utilities and there are a number of things that can be downloaded to make the user experience more valuable. Some people prefer screen savers and some prefer programs that can do things, but there’s a lot out there to choose from. A user can do anything from tweaking the OS to un-deleting lost files.
A website called tips29.com tells us what the top ten (most downloaded) utilities for Windows are.
Windows Desktop Search 3.01 for Windows XP. It’s a search function that sits on the desktop where it’s handy. It searches the computer for files and photos the user wants.
Windows Theme Nunavut. It gives the desktop a Nunavut theme, or it makes everything look really cold and scenic.
Also popular is the Microsoft Egypt Nile Theme; it gives the desktop an Egyptian themed wallpaper, animated cursors and new icons.
Windows Autoplay Repair Wizard. This utility scans the pc and devices to find and fix defective AutoPlay settings.
3D American Flag Screen Saver; give the desktop a patriotic look with the American flag.
SyncToy v1.4 With this utility users can copy, rename, delete and move files between folders and computers.
Winter Fun Screensavers for Windows XP. Cool (cold) screen saver 3-D pictures with interactive sound effects.
Dancer LE. This one lets the user experience music with life-like 3-D animated dancers that have lots of groovy and funny dance moves.
NZ Bliss Desktop Backgrounds for Windows. Set the desktop to show scenes that are New Zealand backdrops for wallpaper.
Internet Explorer Developer Toolbar. This one’s very popular for IE users, but it might have a little problem with IE8 or 9. It gives the user a variety of tools for the Internet experience.
Filed Under: Computers, Operating Systems Tagged With: , , , , ,

New iPhone Apps Make a Phone a Cool Toy

iPod touch - My PDA.

Image by MJ/TR (´･ω･) via Flickr

Smart phones are the future… er, the present and the future. Phones can do so many things these days, they aren’t just telephones anymore. They’re cameras, video makers, music makers, all kinds of things wrapped into a small black rectangle. There are over 300,000 apps people can download that enable a person to do all kinds of things on their telephone. Some of the things are a little odd, like these:
An app called Blower turns the iPhone’s speaker into a small fan. It doesn’t do much good as a fan, unless you want it to blow out your candles, and in that case it’s good.
British developers have made a functioning satellite that uses a smart phone as its brain. It’s called the STRaND-1 (Surrey Training, Research and Nanosatellite Demonstrator) and it weighs in at under eight pounds and costs less than a new car. But sadly, a new car can’t go into outer space, yet.
So Many Apps Make to iPhones More Fun

An app called Annoy-a-Teen that emits a ring tone that adults cannot hear. It’s quite an annoying sound, and because of physical technicalities, teens are able to hear it but not adults.
The Google Goggles phone app has a Sudoku puzzle solver. Just point the iPhone at it, click “solve” and it’s done! The app fills in all the numbers and the puzzle is complete.
Now anyone can contribute to the science of earthquakes. With an app called iShake the user’s phone sends a report of a quake to a central computer that will compare the iPhone’s data to the data taken from other iPhones in the area. Then, it makes a map of the strength and location of the quake.
An app called Parrot AR Drone can turn the phone into a remote control for a four-rotor helicopter complete with camera and sensors. This can be operated from an iPad computer, iPhone or a iPod Touch, and all one has to do is tip it in the direction they want the helicopter to fly.
It’s more than a phone; it’s a cool toy!
Filed Under: Common Problems, Operating Systems Tagged With: ,

Desktop Computers: Tips for buying a computer

Purchasing a computer is a big and costly decision that requires a bit of research. The following is a guideline of tips and requirements to keep in mind when making your purchase:

New or Used

Analyze the pros and cons of purchasing a new computer system versus one that has been refurbished. Traditionally a refurbished computer is one that has been previously owned and examined by the manufacturer for defects or other issues before reselling to a consumer. When buying a refurbished computer do the following:

  • Inspect the system for any signs of damage by examining ports and running the operating system
  • Make sure the operating system and all programs installed on the system come with CDs and manuals
  • Obtain a warranty for the system to guarantee maintenance or replacement

Operating System

Most people purchase a system with an operating system they are already familiar with using. Unsure which one is right for you? Then consider reading reviews on the advantages and disadvantages of different operating systems including Windows and MAC.

Components

To configure a system, you need components. Take into consideration your system requirements when deciding on the following:

  • What type of case do you want; tower or desktop? Consider desk configuration, space, and later upgrades to system.
  • Do you require additional CD media to burn CDs or DVDs?
  • Does the hard drive have enough space and the correct amount of speed? Will you need additional external or internal hard drives?
  • What type of memory does the system come with? Can it be upgraded easily and what are the costs?
  • What type of processor does it have? Check out all the options available.
  • Are you using the computer for gaming or high graphics? Does the video card GPU and memory meet your specific requirements?
  • Plan on editing or mixing sound? Are the sound card capabilities sufficient?

Considerations

It is impossible to say which brand of computer is better than another as everyone has an opinion. Instead, take a look at the extra options offered by the manufacturers:

  • What add-on accessories are available, the costs, and are other accessories compatible?
  • Check out the return policy and other warranties that come with your system
  • What kind of service and support is available to the consumer? Are there costs involved and are they available 24/7?

Buying a computer requires quite a bit of research and consideration, but taking the time now will save you both time and money later on.

Filed Under: Computers, Operating Systems Tagged With: ,

Computers: Operating Systems

An operating system is a software application that facilitates the communication and operation between the computer’s hardware and software. A computer is unable to function without an operating system.

Common Operating Systems

  • Microsoft Windows

With more than 85% of the market share, Microsoft Windows is the most widely used operating system for personal computers.

  • UNIX

This operating system is used heavily for academic and engineering environment workstations and for servers for businesses.

  • Linux

Linux is a widely adoptable system for use with embedded systems and servers. It is used in a wide variety of devices including wristwatches and supercomputers.

Operating systems perform tasks in order to recognize keyboard input, send output to display, keep track of directories and files, and control peripheral devices including printers and disk drives.

For larger systems and networks, the responsibilities of an operating system include making sure that the different users and programs running simultaneously do not interfere with one another and ensuring the security against unauthorized users from accessing the system.

Computer operating system applications often times fall into more than one of the below types:

  • GUI

Also known as Graphical User Interface, GUI uses keyboard shortcuts and arrow keys, windows, menus, and icons to open, move, delete, etc. files. Examples include Windows 98 and System 7.x

  • Multi-user

The operating system does exactly what the name implies; multi-users utilizing the same computer programs at the same or differing times. Examples include Linux, UNIX, and Windows 2000.

  • Multiprocessing

This operating system supports and utilizes multiple computer processors. Examples include Linux, UNIX, and Windows 2000.

  • Multitasking

Multitasking is an operating system that permits more than one program to run at the same time. Examples include UNIX and Windows 2000.

  • Multithreading

This operating system allows different parts of a single software program to run in tandem. Examples include Linux, UNIX, and Windows 2000.

An operating system provides a platform for which other applications can run and these applications must be written to run on top of the selected operating system. Therefore, the choice of operating system is determined by the applications the user plans on running on his system.

Filed Under: Computers, Operating Systems Tagged With: ,

Online Gaming

There is a plethora of time wasters and games out there on the internet today. It’s extremely hard not to get sucked into them, but as long as you are able to reign yourself in and control time spent online, then there’s no harm in enjoying yourself by playing some online games. Here’s a few tips to help get you started.

1. Downloading Free Trials
When you are starting out playing computer games, you might not know what types of games catch your interest. So, one of the best sites you could visit is popcap.com. Here you will find a huge variety of different games, and you can try them all out for free. All you have to do is download the game, and you get a 60 minute trial for free. If you don’t like it, simply remove the program from your computer. If you happen to like it, then you can pay for it. It’s a really simple way to get to know what games you enjoy.

2. Online Free Play
If you don’t want to download anything to your computer, you could also select a game from PopCap’s online selections. These games are always free, and you don’t have to make any commitments or changes to your computer to be able to play them. Granted, there’s a lot less selection when it comes to online only games, but it does save you time trying to download games.

3. Play Against Others
One of the really fun advantages to playing games is you can play against people from all over the world. Whether it’s a card game like poker or blackjack, or a classic game like Yahtzee or Uno, there’s a lot of fun to be had playing games against other online players. This is also really helpful if your family tends to get a little heated while playing the actual games together. You won’t have to worry about family fights online!

Filed Under: Hardware, Internet, Operating Systems Tagged With: , , ,

The Age Old Question: PC or Mac?

There has been a lot of debate over PC vs Mac. There are even commercials out there flaunting the pros and cons of the two sides. So, here’s a little list of the ups and downs of both PC and Mac.

First off, there’s the issue of selection. Mac has only a couple of options out there for you, while PC has a plethora of different laptops and desktops to suit just about anyone’s needs. This really helps when it comes down to an issue of money.

Macs cost more by far, but you are getting a really good quality machine for your money. It’s not like they are just giving a $500 laptop a $1300 price tag. If you were to buy a PC that has similar specs to the Mac, the price wouldn’t be far off at all. But, if you’re buying a laptop for a student or just simply don’t have the green for a Mac, then PC gives you a great selection of lower priced computers that will fit your needs just nicely.

If the performance of the machine is a big factor, the race is neck and neck when it comes to operating systems. Mac has been known to have a smooth running OS, but Windows 7 is really keeping up with the OS X 10.6 that Mac’s use. There are far less problems and quirks with Windows 7 compared to Windows Vista.

One clear edge that Mac has is security. The majority of viruses out there seem to be focused on Windows PC’s rather than Mac’s. So, if you don’t want to be bothered with running program after program to protect your computer, than Mac might be the better choice for you.

Whatever your choice may be, the biggest favor you can do for yourself is to do a lot of research before slapping your credit card down for a purchase.

Filed Under: Computers, Operating Systems Tagged With: , ,
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