Posted By Computer Rehab Services
Restoring your system to an earlier date due to a current operating system problem comes with mixed results (at best). I've found that doing a system restore can often be an exercise in futility.
That being said, if you're faced with potentially re-installing the operating system, it certainly doesn't hurt to give it a try. However, sometimes the computer will Blue Screen right after boot or otherwise not allow you access to the System Restore screen. What to do?
If you can't access the System Restore through "normal" channels, you can usually get at it through a command prompt. Here are the steps:
In XP:
1. Boot to "Windows XP Safe Mode With Command Prompt" by pressing F8 while rebooting.
2. At the Command Prompt, type C:\windows\system32\restore\rstrui.exe (no spaces) and press Enter.
3. Follow the instructions to do a System Restore.
In Vista:
1. Boot from the Vista DVD into the Vista recovery console.
2. Change directory from X: to C: (Simply type C:)
3. Type: rstrui.exe / offline:c:\windows
The System Restore GUI should launch as normal.
Again, sometimes a system restore will fix your problem and sometimes it won't - it certainly isn't bullet proof. However, on occasion it can save you a headache. It certainly doesn't hurt to try.
As always, if you have questions or comments I'm always glad to help. Please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Great Free Utilities 2
Posted By Computer Rehab Services
On 8/30/09 I posted a few of my favorite free utilities. These included CCleaner, Firefox, etc. Please see that post for other utilities and their links.
I use so many quality free utilities that I've decided to make a second list, and more than likely there will be a third. As with the first post, this post contains utilities that I have used for years and have had no problems with. They are utilities that I use often. I also have used similar applications to the ones posted here but I have found these to be the most user friendly and trouble free.
Rocketdock: "...RocketDock is a smoothly animated, alpha blended application launcher. It provides a nice clean interface to drop shortcuts on for easy access and organization. With each item completely customizable there is no end to what you can add and launch from the dock..."
This is the single most used utility I have. I use it constantly. Please do yourself a favor and check it out. It can be customized to no end. One feature that the tutorial does not mention is the fact that the Rocketdock bar can auto-hide so you simply need to bring the cursor to the top of the screen for it to appear.
I've heard that people actually live without Rocketdock. I'm not really sure how.
VisiPics: "If you get too many pictures on your harddrive, downloaded or photographed, from several different sources, it may happen that you have many duplicates. In that case you need a quick and easy to use program that finds and deletes all your duplicates."
Enough Said? This program will find duplicate files/pictures and display the results. You then have the option to keep both or pick which one to delete. Invaluable if you have alot of pictures.
Auslogics Disk Defragmenter: "Disk fragmentation leads to system slowdowns, PC crashes, slow startups and shutdowns. Auslogics Disk Defrag is designed for fast optimization of modern hard disks."
Sure, Windows has a built-in defragmenter but Auslogics' is fast and thorough. There is plenty of competition in this category, if for some reason you don't like this option, run a Google search and you'll find plenty more. Some, like Ultimate Defrag are awesome but not quite so user friendly.
RegSeeker: OK, we need to be careful here. RegSeeker is a regisrty cleaner. Any time you play with the registry there is a chance of screwing things up and there are many opponents of registry cleaners in general. RegSeeker is extremely thorough and, if you're not careful, could be harmful. All that being said, it will report registry errors in red or green fonts. You can absolutely feel safe removing the entries in green. There are plenty you can remove that are listed in red also but if you stick to the green ones you'll be fine. It also backs up the changes you made to the registry "just in case".
FastStone Image Viewer: Talk about tons of competition - it seems like there are thousands of image viewers. I've tried everything from Picasa to IrfanView and everything in between but I always come back to FastStone.
From their site "...fast, stable, user-friendly image browser, converter and editor. It has a nice array of features that include image viewing, management, comparison, red-eye removal, emailing, resizing, cropping and color adjustments..."
It just works. It's simple and will give you full screen previews. Just a nice program.
WinDirStat: Want to find out how your hard disk space is being used? WinDirStat will display your disk in a graphical way. The larger the "block", the larger the file. Very cool and useful program. You can quickly identify and eliminate files that are wasting space.
Renamer: Don't you hate when you have a bunch of vacation pictures or songs you want to rename? This tool is amazingly flexible, letting you rename them all in one step. It takes a little getting used to but once you learn it, it's invaluable.
7-Zip Compression Tool: Uniquely easy to use compression/zipping tool. I especially like the one-click "zip and email" option. Ironically, their website makes it sound more complicated than it is. Give it a try!
ImgBurn: "ImgBurn is a lightweight CD / DVD / HD DVD / Blu-ray burning application that everyone should have in their toolkit!" It does what it says and more. This is the easiest ISO creator I've ever used.
As virtually all utilities I use are freeware, I'm sure I'll have a third post coming. For now, I hope you find some of these applications useful. Again, don't forget to check my first post of free apps from 8/30/09.
As always, if you have questions or comments I'm always glad to help. Please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
On 8/30/09 I posted a few of my favorite free utilities. These included CCleaner, Firefox, etc. Please see that post for other utilities and their links.
I use so many quality free utilities that I've decided to make a second list, and more than likely there will be a third. As with the first post, this post contains utilities that I have used for years and have had no problems with. They are utilities that I use often. I also have used similar applications to the ones posted here but I have found these to be the most user friendly and trouble free.
Rocketdock: "...RocketDock is a smoothly animated, alpha blended application launcher. It provides a nice clean interface to drop shortcuts on for easy access and organization. With each item completely customizable there is no end to what you can add and launch from the dock..."
This is the single most used utility I have. I use it constantly. Please do yourself a favor and check it out. It can be customized to no end. One feature that the tutorial does not mention is the fact that the Rocketdock bar can auto-hide so you simply need to bring the cursor to the top of the screen for it to appear.
I've heard that people actually live without Rocketdock. I'm not really sure how.
VisiPics: "If you get too many pictures on your harddrive, downloaded or photographed, from several different sources, it may happen that you have many duplicates. In that case you need a quick and easy to use program that finds and deletes all your duplicates."
Enough Said? This program will find duplicate files/pictures and display the results. You then have the option to keep both or pick which one to delete. Invaluable if you have alot of pictures.
Auslogics Disk Defragmenter: "Disk fragmentation leads to system slowdowns, PC crashes, slow startups and shutdowns. Auslogics Disk Defrag is designed for fast optimization of modern hard disks."
Sure, Windows has a built-in defragmenter but Auslogics' is fast and thorough. There is plenty of competition in this category, if for some reason you don't like this option, run a Google search and you'll find plenty more. Some, like Ultimate Defrag are awesome but not quite so user friendly.
RegSeeker: OK, we need to be careful here. RegSeeker is a regisrty cleaner. Any time you play with the registry there is a chance of screwing things up and there are many opponents of registry cleaners in general. RegSeeker is extremely thorough and, if you're not careful, could be harmful. All that being said, it will report registry errors in red or green fonts. You can absolutely feel safe removing the entries in green. There are plenty you can remove that are listed in red also but if you stick to the green ones you'll be fine. It also backs up the changes you made to the registry "just in case".
FastStone Image Viewer: Talk about tons of competition - it seems like there are thousands of image viewers. I've tried everything from Picasa to IrfanView and everything in between but I always come back to FastStone.
From their site "...fast, stable, user-friendly image browser, converter and editor. It has a nice array of features that include image viewing, management, comparison, red-eye removal, emailing, resizing, cropping and color adjustments..."
It just works. It's simple and will give you full screen previews. Just a nice program.
WinDirStat: Want to find out how your hard disk space is being used? WinDirStat will display your disk in a graphical way. The larger the "block", the larger the file. Very cool and useful program. You can quickly identify and eliminate files that are wasting space.
Renamer: Don't you hate when you have a bunch of vacation pictures or songs you want to rename? This tool is amazingly flexible, letting you rename them all in one step. It takes a little getting used to but once you learn it, it's invaluable.
7-Zip Compression Tool: Uniquely easy to use compression/zipping tool. I especially like the one-click "zip and email" option. Ironically, their website makes it sound more complicated than it is. Give it a try!
ImgBurn: "ImgBurn is a lightweight CD / DVD / HD DVD / Blu-ray burning application that everyone should have in their toolkit!" It does what it says and more. This is the easiest ISO creator I've ever used.
As virtually all utilities I use are freeware, I'm sure I'll have a third post coming. For now, I hope you find some of these applications useful. Again, don't forget to check my first post of free apps from 8/30/09.
As always, if you have questions or comments I'm always glad to help. Please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Change System Restore Size
Posted By Computer Rehab Services
Here's one of my bigger pet peeves. By default, Vista will allocate as much as 15% of your drive's space to System Restore Points.
Some quick math: 300GB hard drive = potential Restore Points of 45GB. 45GB is not only alot of space but truly, what are the chances that you'll ever want to do a system restore back to 4 months ago? Usually, you want to do a system restore immediately after your PC starts doing something strange which usually follows a utility install/uninstall, etc.
Fortunately, we can limit this space to something we find more reasonable.
In XP, the process was fairly simple: Right click "My Computer", "Properties", "System Restore tab" and use the slide bar to adjust Min/Max disk space usage. Note that in XP, the default max is 12% of the disk size.
Vista did away with this user friendly slide bar, so we'll have to use a Command Prompt.
To get at the Command Prompt: Go to the Start menu and type "cmd" in the search bar. At the top of the list should be "cmd.exe" - right click it at "Run as Administrator".
OK, you should now see the black command box. The following is an example of what you need to type at the command prompt.
vssadmin resize shadowstorage /on=c: /for=c: /maxsize=8GB
This will set the maximum space allowed for restore points to 8GB.
A couple of notes: "on" is the drive in which the restore points are stored. "For" is the drive in which the files will be backed up from. If you have only one drive, both fields are almost sure to be "c" as the example reads.
Also note you can't select a value less than 300MB.
At any time you can delete all but the most recent restore point by going to "Computer", Right Click the system drive (usually "C"), Disk Cleanup, More Options and press the "Clean up" button under "System Restore and Shadow Copies". This will remove all but the most recent restore point which could reclaim as much as 15% of your hard drive space!
As always, if you have questions or comments I'm always glad to help. Please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
Here's one of my bigger pet peeves. By default, Vista will allocate as much as 15% of your drive's space to System Restore Points.
Some quick math: 300GB hard drive = potential Restore Points of 45GB. 45GB is not only alot of space but truly, what are the chances that you'll ever want to do a system restore back to 4 months ago? Usually, you want to do a system restore immediately after your PC starts doing something strange which usually follows a utility install/uninstall, etc.
Fortunately, we can limit this space to something we find more reasonable.
In XP, the process was fairly simple: Right click "My Computer", "Properties", "System Restore tab" and use the slide bar to adjust Min/Max disk space usage. Note that in XP, the default max is 12% of the disk size.
Vista did away with this user friendly slide bar, so we'll have to use a Command Prompt.
To get at the Command Prompt: Go to the Start menu and type "cmd" in the search bar. At the top of the list should be "cmd.exe" - right click it at "Run as Administrator".
OK, you should now see the black command box. The following is an example of what you need to type at the command prompt.
vssadmin resize shadowstorage /on=c: /for=c: /maxsize=8GB
This will set the maximum space allowed for restore points to 8GB.
A couple of notes: "on" is the drive in which the restore points are stored. "For" is the drive in which the files will be backed up from. If you have only one drive, both fields are almost sure to be "c" as the example reads.
Also note you can't select a value less than 300MB.
At any time you can delete all but the most recent restore point by going to "Computer", Right Click the system drive (usually "C"), Disk Cleanup, More Options and press the "Clean up" button under "System Restore and Shadow Copies". This will remove all but the most recent restore point which could reclaim as much as 15% of your hard drive space!
As always, if you have questions or comments I'm always glad to help. Please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Web Page Font Size
Posted By Computer Rehab Services
Here's a short but sweet little tip that I'm learning not too many people know about.
When you're viewing a web page, you can increase or decrease the font size by simply holding the "Control" button and rolling your mouse wheel forward or backward.
Alternatively, if you're using a laptop without a mouse, hold "Control" and press the "+" or "-" buttons. This can be a particularly helpful little hint for laptops which sometimes have smaller screens (and therefore smaller fonts...).
As always, if you have questions or comments I'm always glad to help. Please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
Here's a short but sweet little tip that I'm learning not too many people know about.
When you're viewing a web page, you can increase or decrease the font size by simply holding the "Control" button and rolling your mouse wheel forward or backward.
Alternatively, if you're using a laptop without a mouse, hold "Control" and press the "+" or "-" buttons. This can be a particularly helpful little hint for laptops which sometimes have smaller screens (and therefore smaller fonts...).
As always, if you have questions or comments I'm always glad to help. Please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Print Screen Button?
Posted By Computer Rehab Services
Ever wonder what in the world that "Print Screen" button on your keyboard does?
It's actually quite simple and can be useful in certain instances.
The "Print Screen" button takes a page snapshot and places it on your clipboard. This image can then be placed in a document (like a Word Document) by right clicking in the document and pressing "Paste"
Try it. Open a web page and a new Word document. While on the web page, press "Print Screen". Now go to the Word document, right click and press "Paste". The screenshot should now appear within the Word page.
While not great for all circumstances, it's worth knowing.
Vista users: One of the best tools Vista has to offer is its new Snipping Tool. This tool allows you to take snapshots of any size from virtually anything.
To access it, press "Start" and type SNIPPING in the search box. The Snipping Tool should be listed in the column above where you're typing. Click it and play with it. Once you get the hang of it, it's a very handy tool to have at your disposal. I have mine pinned to my start menu.
As always, if you have questions please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
Ever wonder what in the world that "Print Screen" button on your keyboard does?
It's actually quite simple and can be useful in certain instances.
The "Print Screen" button takes a page snapshot and places it on your clipboard. This image can then be placed in a document (like a Word Document) by right clicking in the document and pressing "Paste"
Try it. Open a web page and a new Word document. While on the web page, press "Print Screen". Now go to the Word document, right click and press "Paste". The screenshot should now appear within the Word page.
While not great for all circumstances, it's worth knowing.
Vista users: One of the best tools Vista has to offer is its new Snipping Tool. This tool allows you to take snapshots of any size from virtually anything.
To access it, press "Start" and type SNIPPING in the search box. The Snipping Tool should be listed in the column above where you're typing. Click it and play with it. Once you get the hang of it, it's a very handy tool to have at your disposal. I have mine pinned to my start menu.
As always, if you have questions please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
Disable Vista UAC
Posted By Computer Rehab Services
I think the single biggest complaint I hear about Vista is its use of the User Account Control (UAC). While I have my UAC enabled, I do see how it could be conceived as annoying. Hey, why not just turn it off?
There are at least four ways to do this (probably more) - for simplicity's sake I'll show you the two easiest ways. (The other two involve editing the registry and/or modifying group policies. We won't get into that here).
Method #1:
Download and run the FREE utility "Tweak UAC". It's extremely easy to use and can be downloaded here: Tweak UAC
Method #2:
Click "Start","Run" and type MSCONFIG in the Run menu.
Click "Continue" when the UAC window pops up.
Click the Tools tab and scroll down until you see "Disable UAC" . Highlight that line by clicking on it.
Click the Launch button.
A command window will open - when the command is done, close the window.
Close MSCONFIG & restart your computer.
(To re-enable UAC, click "Enable UAC" and press Launch).
As always, if you have questions please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
I think the single biggest complaint I hear about Vista is its use of the User Account Control (UAC). While I have my UAC enabled, I do see how it could be conceived as annoying. Hey, why not just turn it off?
There are at least four ways to do this (probably more) - for simplicity's sake I'll show you the two easiest ways. (The other two involve editing the registry and/or modifying group policies. We won't get into that here).
Method #1:
Download and run the FREE utility "Tweak UAC". It's extremely easy to use and can be downloaded here: Tweak UAC
Method #2:
Click "Start","Run" and type MSCONFIG in the Run menu.
Click "Continue" when the UAC window pops up.
Click the Tools tab and scroll down until you see "Disable UAC" . Highlight that line by clicking on it.
Click the Launch button.
A command window will open - when the command is done, close the window.
Close MSCONFIG & restart your computer.
(To re-enable UAC, click "Enable UAC" and press Launch).
As always, if you have questions please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
Vista Automatic Logon
Posted By Computer Rehab Services
Depending on how your new Vista PC is configured out of the box, it will probably stop the logon process and ask for a username and password.
But what if If you're password protected but you're the only person with access to your PC you can make Vista automatically log you in if you'd like.
Here are the steps:
Click "Start" and type "netplwiz" (no quotes) in the "Start Search" field and then press "Enter".
Click "Continue" if the User Account Control window appears.
From the User Accounts window that you should now see, verify that your user account is selected.
Untick the "Users must enter a username and password to use this computer" option and click "OK".
Enter the password for your user account upon being prompted for it and restart your computer.
Vista will now automatically log on with your user account.
As always, if you have questions please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
Depending on how your new Vista PC is configured out of the box, it will probably stop the logon process and ask for a username and password.
But what if
Here are the steps:
Click "Start" and type "netplwiz" (no quotes) in the "Start Search" field and then press "Enter".
Click "Continue" if the User Account Control window appears.
From the User Accounts window that you should now see, verify that your user account is selected.
Untick the "Users must enter a username and password to use this computer" option and click "OK".
Enter the password for your user account upon being prompted for it and restart your computer.
Vista will now automatically log on with your user account.
As always, if you have questions please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
Clean your Desktop Machine
Posted By Computer Rehab Services
Slowdowns and general errors are often caused by "junk" files accumulating over time. One of the best & easiest ways to clean junk files is CCleaner. It is totally free and can be downloaded at http://www.ccleaner.com/download. CCleaner is safe and effective. Yes, there are plenty more similar utilities out there and they are easily found through Google. However, I have found that CCleaner is among the easiest to use - especially for novices.
OK, that's the software side of cleaning. One of the most overlooked aspects of caring for a computer is the internal cleaning of it. I suppose there are a ton of reasons this is overlooked but as a person who has opened up alot of machines, I can't stress enough the importance of cleaning the inside of the case.
I've opened cases where dust has literally fallen out in clumps as I open it up. This is especially true of people who own pets and/or when the computer sits directly on carpet. The problem is that the natural airflow is disturbed or stopped altogether when dust builds up.
Optimally, air should come in the front of the machine and exit out the back. This is done with the use of fans. To ensure proper airflow, we need to open the case.
Before you begin, turn off the computer and disconnect all cables and wires connected to your machine. Don't be afraid to crack it open, generally speaking you're not going to hurt anything as long as you're careful. Be aware of Electrostatic Discharge (static electricity) - this can be a component killer. If you open your case just for the purpose of cleaning it, there will be little reason to actually touch any components.
You may have to check your owners manual to determine how to open your particular case. Sometimes the side will come off after removing two thumbscrews in the back. However, PC makers have become increasingly clever - if it's not obvious refer to your owners manual or search it on Google.
Once the case is open, pull out that can of air and clean those fans (note some machines don't have front fans, but almost all have rear fans). Spray the air everywhere and watch the dust fly. You will see a fan on top of the CPU. This is an important fan and is usually mounted to a heatsink. Spray the fan and heatsink liberally removing all dust possible. You may also find fans on video cards, chipsets, etc. Basically, clean everything possible.
The one thing you don't want to do is pull out the Hoover and vacuum the inside of the case. This can seem tempting but it's a huge no-no, stick with the canned air.
If you're comfortable inside the case, feel free to tie back any wires that are inhibiting air flow from front to back. Also be sure to tie back any wires that could come in contact with fans.
After all said and done, close the case and reconnect all wires and cables and turn your machine back on.
You may not notice an immediate difference but you've just increased the longevity of your PC.
As always, if you have questions please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
Slowdowns and general errors are often caused by "junk" files accumulating over time. One of the best & easiest ways to clean junk files is CCleaner. It is totally free and can be downloaded at http://www.ccleaner.com/download. CCleaner is safe and effective. Yes, there are plenty more similar utilities out there and they are easily found through Google. However, I have found that CCleaner is among the easiest to use - especially for novices.
OK, that's the software side of cleaning. One of the most overlooked aspects of caring for a computer is the internal cleaning of it. I suppose there are a ton of reasons this is overlooked but as a person who has opened up alot of machines, I can't stress enough the importance of cleaning the inside of the case.
I've opened cases where dust has literally fallen out in clumps as I open it up. This is especially true of people who own pets and/or when the computer sits directly on carpet. The problem is that the natural airflow is disturbed or stopped altogether when dust builds up.
Optimally, air should come in the front of the machine and exit out the back. This is done with the use of fans. To ensure proper airflow, we need to open the case.
Before you begin, turn off the computer and disconnect all cables and wires connected to your machine. Don't be afraid to crack it open, generally speaking you're not going to hurt anything as long as you're careful. Be aware of Electrostatic Discharge (static electricity) - this can be a component killer. If you open your case just for the purpose of cleaning it, there will be little reason to actually touch any components.
You may have to check your owners manual to determine how to open your particular case. Sometimes the side will come off after removing two thumbscrews in the back. However, PC makers have become increasingly clever - if it's not obvious refer to your owners manual or search it on Google.
Once the case is open, pull out that can of air and clean those fans (note some machines don't have front fans, but almost all have rear fans). Spray the air everywhere and watch the dust fly. You will see a fan on top of the CPU. This is an important fan and is usually mounted to a heatsink. Spray the fan and heatsink liberally removing all dust possible. You may also find fans on video cards, chipsets, etc. Basically, clean everything possible.
The one thing you don't want to do is pull out the Hoover and vacuum the inside of the case. This can seem tempting but it's a huge no-no, stick with the canned air.
If you're comfortable inside the case, feel free to tie back any wires that are inhibiting air flow from front to back. Also be sure to tie back any wires that could come in contact with fans.
After all said and done, close the case and reconnect all wires and cables and turn your machine back on.
You may not notice an immediate difference but you've just increased the longevity of your PC.
As always, if you have questions please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
Monday, August 31, 2009
Cooling Your Laptop
Posted By Computer Rehab Services
The popularity of laptops has exploded over the last few years. It seems like everybody wants one or has at least one.
We need to remember that while these laptops are increasingly powerful, the "guts" are pretty much the same as in a large desktop tower. The tower has more space to cool its components, space for extra fans, etc.
Laptops on the other hand have all this hardware crammed into a tightly packaged case and while cooling has improved, it's still an issue.
A few things to keep in mind while using your laptop:
1st: Never put it on a pillow or blanket on your lap. This is almost sure to block any or all airflow vents.
2nd: Be aware of where the fan(s) and vents are. even if you have it on your lap, you can block a fan output.
Vents and fans are easy to find. Look at the laptop. You'll often find air vents on the sides and bottom. You should also be able to locate the fans by feeling air blowing out of the case.
It's never a bad idea to get a cooling pad - it can't hurt.
By the way, we might as well distinguish between "hot" and "overheating". Almost all laptops run hot, but overheating is the big problem. Overheating should be obvious because processors are designed to clock down (slow down) if they start to get too hot. This will result in overall slow response time of the machine. If you notice this, it's best to turn off the machine for awhile or put it on a cooling pad - anything to get it cooled down.
Finally, if the processor gets too hot, the laptop SHOULD shut down completely - although this is not something I suggest you test.
Laptops are great devices. Keep them cool. Heat is the #1 killer of computers in general.
Happy computing!
As always, if you have questions please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
The popularity of laptops has exploded over the last few years. It seems like everybody wants one or has at least one.
We need to remember that while these laptops are increasingly powerful, the "guts" are pretty much the same as in a large desktop tower. The tower has more space to cool its components, space for extra fans, etc.
Laptops on the other hand have all this hardware crammed into a tightly packaged case and while cooling has improved, it's still an issue.
A few things to keep in mind while using your laptop:
1st: Never put it on a pillow or blanket on your lap. This is almost sure to block any or all airflow vents.
2nd: Be aware of where the fan(s) and vents are. even if you have it on your lap, you can block a fan output.
Vents and fans are easy to find. Look at the laptop. You'll often find air vents on the sides and bottom. You should also be able to locate the fans by feeling air blowing out of the case.
It's never a bad idea to get a cooling pad - it can't hurt.
By the way, we might as well distinguish between "hot" and "overheating". Almost all laptops run hot, but overheating is the big problem. Overheating should be obvious because processors are designed to clock down (slow down) if they start to get too hot. This will result in overall slow response time of the machine. If you notice this, it's best to turn off the machine for awhile or put it on a cooling pad - anything to get it cooled down.
Finally, if the processor gets too hot, the laptop SHOULD shut down completely - although this is not something I suggest you test.
Laptops are great devices. Keep them cool. Heat is the #1 killer of computers in general.
Happy computing!
As always, if you have questions please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Great Free Utilities
Posted By Computer Rehab Services
These days, there are so many great free utilities at our disposal, I have to question buying almost any type of product. This is a category that "You get what you pay for" doesn't necessarily apply. Granted, there are some terrible apps out there, some have even caused me to reinstall my operating system due to the damage they caused. Just the same, I'm a firm believer in Open Source and free software.
Here are a few of my favorites:
CCleaner - A great (and safe) "one click" solution to cleaning all types of unneeded files (temporary files, etc). It also contains a very safe Registry Cleaner.
It can be found at: http://www.ccleaner.com/download
Auslogics Disk Defragmenter - Auslogics makes some great stuff. They have both a disk defragmenter which works very quickly as well as a registry cleaner. The Disk Defragmenter is a wonderful, easy to use utility and, in my opinion, does a better job than Windows built in defragmenter.
It can be found at: http://www.auslogics.com/en/software/disk-defrag/download
Spyware Terminator - There are a ton of great Anti-Virus apps out there. Malwarebytes is great, AVG is kind of the free "Standard". Antivir is effective, then there's Spybot, Ad-Aware, etc. However, for great free, Real-time protection download Spyware Terminator and choose the option to integrate Clam Anti-Virus. This creates a very comprehensive solution for your Anti-Virus needs.
One unfortunate limitation: All of its functions will not work on 64bit Operating Systems. I can only hope they are working on this and will have a new 64bit compliant version out shortly.
It can be downloaded at: http://www.spywareterminator.com/download/download.aspx
Firefox Web Browser - I've used them ALL, trust me. I'm sure I'll hear from all the Opera lovers out there but I love Firefox. Customize 'till your heart's content. Spend some time learning what it has to offer and you'll have to be a fan. I'm convinced that if Windows Operating Systems shipped with both Internet Explorer AND Firefox, 85% of users would choose Firefox.
You can give it a try at: http://www.mozilla.com/en-US/firefox/upgrade.html
Open Office - Think twice before paying $300 for Microsoft Office. Sun Microsystems offers a free, completely compatible alternative. It's actually kind of amazing how similar it is to Microsoft's Office. To make your documents compatible with Microsoft Office, be sure to save them in a .doc or .xls format. Open Office also has a PowerPoint clone as well as many other great features.
Get it at: http://www.openoffice.org/
Foxit PDF Reader - How long do you want to wait for Adobe Reader to load? There's a better option for viewing those PDFs.
Download Foxit Reader at: Foxit Reader
There are soooo many More! I would urge you to check out MajorGeeks.com and browse their free offerings.
As always, if you have questions please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
Enjoy!
These days, there are so many great free utilities at our disposal, I have to question buying almost any type of product. This is a category that "You get what you pay for" doesn't necessarily apply. Granted, there are some terrible apps out there, some have even caused me to reinstall my operating system due to the damage they caused. Just the same, I'm a firm believer in Open Source and free software.
Here are a few of my favorites:
CCleaner - A great (and safe) "one click" solution to cleaning all types of unneeded files (temporary files, etc). It also contains a very safe Registry Cleaner.
It can be found at: http://www.ccleaner.com/download
Auslogics Disk Defragmenter - Auslogics makes some great stuff. They have both a disk defragmenter which works very quickly as well as a registry cleaner. The Disk Defragmenter is a wonderful, easy to use utility and, in my opinion, does a better job than Windows built in defragmenter.
It can be found at: http://www.auslogics.com/en/software/disk-defrag/download
Spyware Terminator - There are a ton of great Anti-Virus apps out there. Malwarebytes is great, AVG is kind of the free "Standard". Antivir is effective, then there's Spybot, Ad-Aware, etc. However, for great free, Real-time protection download Spyware Terminator and choose the option to integrate Clam Anti-Virus. This creates a very comprehensive solution for your Anti-Virus needs.
One unfortunate limitation: All of its functions will not work on 64bit Operating Systems. I can only hope they are working on this and will have a new 64bit compliant version out shortly.
It can be downloaded at: http://www.spywareterminator.com/download/download.aspx
Firefox Web Browser - I've used them ALL, trust me. I'm sure I'll hear from all the Opera lovers out there but I love Firefox. Customize 'till your heart's content. Spend some time learning what it has to offer and you'll have to be a fan. I'm convinced that if Windows Operating Systems shipped with both Internet Explorer AND Firefox, 85% of users would choose Firefox.
You can give it a try at: http://www.mozilla.com/en-US/firefox/upgrade.html
Open Office - Think twice before paying $300 for Microsoft Office. Sun Microsystems offers a free, completely compatible alternative. It's actually kind of amazing how similar it is to Microsoft's Office. To make your documents compatible with Microsoft Office, be sure to save them in a .doc or .xls format. Open Office also has a PowerPoint clone as well as many other great features.
Get it at: http://www.openoffice.org/
Foxit PDF Reader - How long do you want to wait for Adobe Reader to load? There's a better option for viewing those PDFs.
Download Foxit Reader at: Foxit Reader
There are soooo many More! I would urge you to check out MajorGeeks.com and browse their free offerings.
As always, if you have questions please contact me via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
Enjoy!
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Fixing Bad Uninstalls
Posted By Computer Rehab Services
Sometimes, for whatever reason, a program will remain in the "Add / Remove" List even though the application has been removed from the system.
To remove it from the "Add / Remove" List, we will need to edit the registry.
Please note that before editing the registry, you should always back it up. Improper registry editing can turn your PC into a small boat anchor.
To back up the registry, follow the directions for your Operating System at this link:
http://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-backup-registry/
In the Run Box, type "regedit"
Navigate to: HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\
Simply delete the Application Key that's causing the issue.
As with all my other blogs, I will gladly field questions and inquiries via email through my website. Computer Rehabilitation Services
Sometimes, for whatever reason, a program will remain in the "Add / Remove" List even though the application has been removed from the system.
To remove it from the "Add / Remove" List, we will need to edit the registry.
Please note that before editing the registry, you should always back it up. Improper registry editing can turn your PC into a small boat anchor.
To back up the registry, follow the directions for your Operating System at this link:
http://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-backup-registry/
In the Run Box, type "regedit"
Navigate to: HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\
Simply delete the Application Key that's causing the issue.
As with all my other blogs, I will gladly field questions and inquiries via email through my website. Computer Rehabilitation Services
System Restore From Command Prompt
Posted By Computer Rehab Services
Sometimes you run into a problem so bad that your system won't even boot. While there are an infinite number of reasons this could possibly happen, it is possible to do a System Restore through a command prompt.
In Vista, boot from your Vista DVD and enter the recovery console.
Change directory from X: to C: (Simply type C:)
Type: rstrui.exe / offline:c:\windows and press enter.
The System Restore GUI will launch as it normally would.
______________________________________________
In XP, boot into Safe Mode With Command Prompt (This is usually done by pressing F8 after the computer starts but before Windows loads). If this doesn't work, check your computer manual.
Once at the command type C:\windows\system32\restore\rstrui.exe and press Enter.
The System Restore GUI will load as normal. Follow the prompts to complete a System Restore.
I hope this was helpful. I am happy to answer specific questions via email through my website:
Computer Rehabilitation Services
Sometimes you run into a problem so bad that your system won't even boot. While there are an infinite number of reasons this could possibly happen, it is possible to do a System Restore through a command prompt.
In Vista, boot from your Vista DVD and enter the recovery console.
Change directory from X: to C: (Simply type C:)
Type: rstrui.exe / offline:c:\windows and press enter.
The System Restore GUI will launch as it normally would.
______________________________________________
In XP, boot into Safe Mode With Command Prompt (This is usually done by pressing F8 after the computer starts but before Windows loads). If this doesn't work, check your computer manual.
Once at the command type C:\windows\system32\restore\rstrui.exe and press Enter.
The System Restore GUI will load as normal. Follow the prompts to complete a System Restore.
I hope this was helpful. I am happy to answer specific questions via email through my website:
Computer Rehabilitation Services
NTLDR Missing
Posted By Computer Rehab Services
Here's an annoying problem that is all too common. You turn on your PC only to find an error on startup. The error you are receiving is that the NTLDR is Missing or corrupt.
This can be fixed fairly easily.
Note this works on XP machines. Vista does not use the NTLDR. However, on rare occasions Vista will throw up the NTLDR error. According to Microsoft, this is only possible if the machine was migrated to Vista from an earlier OS.
The Fix:
Boot into the recovery console from the Vista installation CD
Type the following:
Fixmbr c:
Fixboot c:
Copy cddrive*:\i386\ntldr c:\
Copy cddrive*:\i386ntdetect.com c:\
Bootcfg /rebuild
At "Add installation to boot list?" type Y
The LOAD IDENTIFIER is either Windows XP Professional or Windows XP Home Edition
*Note that the target is usually C:\ (your main system drive), however the cddrive may not be as obvious.
For instance on one computer I had, the CD drive letter was "J" (only in the recovery console).
I tried all letters until I found one that worked.
There is probably a better way to discover the drive letter for the cd drive (which is usually D or E) but my methodical method paid off.
If you have questions regarding this fix or others, I can be reached via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
Here's an annoying problem that is all too common. You turn on your PC only to find an error on startup. The error you are receiving is that the NTLDR is Missing or corrupt.
This can be fixed fairly easily.
Note this works on XP machines. Vista does not use the NTLDR. However, on rare occasions Vista will throw up the NTLDR error. According to Microsoft, this is only possible if the machine was migrated to Vista from an earlier OS.
The Fix:
Boot into the recovery console from the Vista installation CD
Type the following:
Fixmbr c:
Fixboot c:
Copy cddrive*:\i386\ntldr c:\
Copy cddrive*:\i386ntdetect.com c:\
Bootcfg /rebuild
At "Add installation to boot list?" type Y
The LOAD IDENTIFIER is either Windows XP Professional or Windows XP Home Edition
*Note that the target is usually C:\ (your main system drive), however the cddrive may not be as obvious.
For instance on one computer I had, the CD drive letter was "J" (only in the recovery console).
I tried all letters until I found one that worked.
There is probably a better way to discover the drive letter for the cd drive (which is usually D or E) but my methodical method paid off.
If you have questions regarding this fix or others, I can be reached via email through my website: Computer Rehabilitation Services
USB Devices Not Recognized
Posted By Computer Rehab Services
Here's one of my favorite mysteries.
My step-daughter's XP Desktop was not recognizing USB devices. Well, it would recognize some, but not others. There was no rhyme or reason. A flash drive would not work in any port but would work flawlessly on another computer. At the same time, her USB Printer could be plugged into any port and worked flawlessly.
I pulled my hair out for a couple of days on this one. Reinstalling drivers, trying different devices, making sure all connections were physically made, etc.
The Fix: Unplug the PC for at least a half hour. Plug it back in and like magic it worked flawlessly.
I must admit this is still a slight mystery to me. I've heard and read that USB ports can build up and store static electricity rendering them very inconsistent. Unplugging the machine dissipates that charge.
I'm still not sure I buy that argument but I can't argue with the result. If you've got strange things happening to your USB ports, try unplugging it for a half hour. What have you got to lose?
More advice can be obtained by emailing me through my website at Computer Rehabilitation Services
Here's one of my favorite mysteries.
My step-daughter's XP Desktop was not recognizing USB devices. Well, it would recognize some, but not others. There was no rhyme or reason. A flash drive would not work in any port but would work flawlessly on another computer. At the same time, her USB Printer could be plugged into any port and worked flawlessly.
I pulled my hair out for a couple of days on this one. Reinstalling drivers, trying different devices, making sure all connections were physically made, etc.
The Fix: Unplug the PC for at least a half hour. Plug it back in and like magic it worked flawlessly.
I must admit this is still a slight mystery to me. I've heard and read that USB ports can build up and store static electricity rendering them very inconsistent. Unplugging the machine dissipates that charge.
I'm still not sure I buy that argument but I can't argue with the result. If you've got strange things happening to your USB ports, try unplugging it for a half hour. What have you got to lose?
More advice can be obtained by emailing me through my website at Computer Rehabilitation Services
Optical Drive Not Recognized
Posted By Computer Rehab Services
DVD / CD Drive Not Recognized by the Operating System:
I had an interesting problem with an Acer Aspire 5100 Laptop running Windows XP Home. The optical drive was not being recognized - that is to say that it did not show up in "My Computer" nor would the drive open.
Caution: This fix involves editing the registry. Improper registry editing can render your computer useless. Please use caution. I accept no responsibility for the advice in this blog.
Here was the fix:
RUN - REGEDIT to get to the Registry Editor
Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class\{4D36E965-E325-11CE-BFC1-08002BE10318}
Look for "UpperFilters" and "LowerFilters" (and "UpperFilters.bak" "LowerFilters.bak", if they exist) and simply delete those entries.
Quit the registry editor and reboot.
Easy as that, the drive is now recognized!
More help and advice can be obtained at Computer Rehabilitation Services
DVD / CD Drive Not Recognized by the Operating System:
I had an interesting problem with an Acer Aspire 5100 Laptop running Windows XP Home. The optical drive was not being recognized - that is to say that it did not show up in "My Computer" nor would the drive open.
Caution: This fix involves editing the registry. Improper registry editing can render your computer useless. Please use caution. I accept no responsibility for the advice in this blog.
Here was the fix:
RUN - REGEDIT to get to the Registry Editor
Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class\{4D36E965-E325-11CE-BFC1-08002BE10318}
Look for "UpperFilters" and "LowerFilters" (and "UpperFilters.bak" "LowerFilters.bak", if they exist) and simply delete those entries.
Quit the registry editor and reboot.
Easy as that, the drive is now recognized!
More help and advice can be obtained at Computer Rehabilitation Services
HAL.DLL Missing Or Corrupt
Posted By Computer Rehab Services
HAL.DLL Missing or Corrupt - No Boot
I recently had a customer who had a computer that would not boot. He was getting an "Hal.dll error". The PC reported that the .dll was missing or corrupt. I was able to get the computer to boot using XP's recovery console. After booting, I created a new BOOT.INI file only to find that I could not re-boot. Every boot needed to be done via the Recovery Console. After repeating this process several times, I realized that the BOOT.INI file was being automatically deleted after every boot.
The culprit? Internet Explorer 8.
Ulimately the fix was to uninstall Service Pack 3 which reverted Internet Explorer back to Version 6. I the reinstalled SP3 leaving IE6 in place. Problem solved.
Here's the step by step:
First, understand that HAL.DLL errors are among the most common errors. For example, they can be caused by a wrong boot sequence in the BIOS.
To get your computer booted, you'll need to use the command prompt from XPs recovery console. To do this, load your XP CD and boot from it. Let the disc load until you see a blue screen titled "Welcome to Setup".
Press "R" for Recovery.
At the "Enter Load Indentifier" prompt type the name of your Operating System. For this excercise we'll use Windows XP Home Edition
HAL.DLL Missing or Corrupt - No Boot
I recently had a customer who had a computer that would not boot. He was getting an "Hal.dll error". The PC reported that the .dll was missing or corrupt. I was able to get the computer to boot using XP's recovery console. After booting, I created a new BOOT.INI file only to find that I could not re-boot. Every boot needed to be done via the Recovery Console. After repeating this process several times, I realized that the BOOT.INI file was being automatically deleted after every boot.
The culprit? Internet Explorer 8.
Ulimately the fix was to uninstall Service Pack 3 which reverted Internet Explorer back to Version 6. I the reinstalled SP3 leaving IE6 in place. Problem solved.
Here's the step by step:
First, understand that HAL.DLL errors are among the most common errors. For example, they can be caused by a wrong boot sequence in the BIOS.
To get your computer booted, you'll need to use the command prompt from XPs recovery console. To do this, load your XP CD and boot from it. Let the disc load until you see a blue screen titled "Welcome to Setup".
Press "R" for Recovery.
The Recovery Console now needs to know which Windows installation you wish to access. Usually your PC will only have one Windows XP installation. Assuming that's your scenario, press "1".
Enter yor Administartive Password. If you don't have one, simply press "Enter"
You should now be at a Command Prompt which will look like "C:\Windows>"
Now type: bootcfg /rebuild
Type "Y" to "Add installation to boot list"At the "Enter Load Indentifier" prompt type the name of your Operating System. For this excercise we'll use Windows XP Home Edition
The next prompt asks you to Enter OS Load options:
Type /Fastdetect here and press Enter.
Type Exit, remove the XP CD and press the enter key to restart your computer.
The Computer should boot normally.
Go to Control Panel>Add / Remove Programs. Look for Internet Explorer 8. If it's Listed AND has a Remove option, remove it. If not, you'll have to remove SP3. Tick "Show Updates" and remove SP3. This will automatically remove IE8.
After SP3 is removed, you can safely re-install it leaving an older version of Internet Explorer Intact.
Now Be Careful! Your PC will want to re-install IE8 as an Automatic update. I strongly suggest you "hide" this update so you don't install it accidentally or automatically.
If you have any questions, please email me through my website: Computer Rehab Services
I will gladly help via email when possible.
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