PC Repair Help

How to Repair Your Computer

Computer repair is important because we are becoming dependent on it for every personal and professional task. There are variety of problems; some are simple while others are complicated. However, you can repair your system on your own by following some tips and tricks. Some of them are discussed here:

Computer freezing

Computers may freeze on account of any hardware or software issue, so here you need to understand the exact reason behind it. Notice if the issue started when you connected any hardware peripherals like a printer or scanner; then it might be due to a driver conflict. If the issue occurred after assembling a new hard drive, then it might be due to insufficient power or too much heat.

Follow the troubleshooting pattern below to repair your computer, if such problems occur.

First Things First If you leave your computer on all the time, you can often fix a problem by unplugging it, waiting at least 30 seconds, and plugging it back in. By cutting off the power to the motherboard, it allows the hardware to reset and the memory to clear.

Inspect Your PC for Heat-Related Issues Any time you need to open up your computer cabinet, shut down your computer and unplug it. If you have long hair, tie it back. Take off any jewelry that might get in the way. Also avoid wearing any clothing that produces a lot of static, as a spark can damage hardware and cause intermittent, hard-to-troubleshoot problems.

Open the cabinet of your computer and check the temperature of the metal chassis. If it’s hot, then certainly there is some thermal problem. Gently examine the front and rear fans and blow out any dust. You can apply a clean cloth to dust out hidden particles. Remember: Your computer must be shut down while you're cleaning inside it.

If you have more than one hard drive in your computer, avoid installing them right next to each other in the chassis; this makes them more prone to heat failure. To install an extra hard drive in a wide slot, such as the slot that holds your CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive, you can buy mounting brackets at a store that sells computer parts.

Even if your computer isn't having problems, it's a good idea to clean the fans regularly.

Before you close up the case, check all the cables and make sure everything is still plugged in. If you have to reseat a video card or a stick of memory, avoid applying heavy pressure to the motherboard as this can damage it.

Inspect your Device Drivers Many times when doing a Windows Update, your system may download and install an incorrect driver, which may result in the computer freezing. You can check the status of drivers from Device Manager. Unplug your USB device, if connected. Power-on your computer and see if it works. If it does, good; otherwise you can restore your computer to an earlier configuration. System Restore will roll your system back to an earlier set of drivers.

You can find System Restore at Start>Programs>Accessories>System Tools>System Restore.

Inspect your Hard Disk Your hard disk is a storehouse of information, so when it gets used for a long duration it might get cluttered and patchy; this slows down the performance of your computer. Hence, use your Windows utility CHKDSK to scan and remove bad sectors on regular basis. It is the best preventive way of maintaining computer health.

Blue Screen of Death A more difficult time comes when your computer refuses to load any startup applications. In computer language, it is termed as "Blue-Screen of Death". There can be several causes behind this evil trauma. Let’s start with computer repair job.

Hardware Issues Any hardware conflicts can lead to this problem. Hence, if you have done any hardware replacement make sure that it’s up to the specification of your motherboard.

Rogue Programs These days, the Internet is flooded with a range of malicious programs such as spyware, adware and Trojans. These gain access to your computer through loopholes in application software or in the operating system. To eliminate these programs and fix your computer, scan with a compatible anti-virus program.

Registry Errors The Windows Registry holds information regarding hardware and software settings on your computer. If a malicious program corrupts the Registry, it may result in a blue screen error.

These problems could be fixed either manually, by editing the Registry directly, or with third-party software that can check and repair a corrupted Registry. Always back up the Registry before attempting to edit it.

Tags: pc repair help, free pc help, pc home help, computer problems, how to fix a computer, pc help, fix pc, pc doctor, slow computers, pc troubleshooting .

How to Reduce Computer Repair Costs

Increased computer usage is likely to increase the computer repair costs. Here are some simple methods for reducing such costs.

1. Run a disk defragmentation tool. This enhances the computers performance as well as taking pressure off the hard drive.

2. Remove any programs that you don't need anymore. There are programs available for this function.

3. Use a good antivirus and make sure it is switched on.

4. Use a good antispyware program.

5. Run a registry cleaner regularly.

6. Learn to do simple self-repair work. Read up on ways that you can fix simple problems with your computer.

7. Be careful when downloading files from the internet.

8. Be careful with your computer. Don't punch it or slam in the disc drive. Don't stick things inside the openings on your computer.

Tuesday, 8 May 2012

Variables that affect the lifespan of Computers

When you fork out a wad of money for a new computer, you expect it to last for the long haul, right?
While some parts of the computer could last decades under the right conditions, many of the most essential computer parts aren’t designed for the long haul.

The average lifespan of a computer is about 3-5 years. But there are many variables that can reduce the lifespan though, such as how much you use it and how hard you push it, environmental heat and humidity, dust, and insects.

But let’s start with the basics. The type of computer you buy will affect its lifespan.
Macs seem to last longer than PCs but they cost more and new technology renders old hardware virtually useless.
People with older computers usually replace the parts to bring them up to date with faster speed, wireless or cable internet, and more hard drive space.

If you buy the cheapest computers, you’ll run into lifespan problems too.
Cheaper models are built with cheaper materials, so if you’re looking for a computer that will last three to five years or longer, invest in a laptop with quality hardware.

Buy strong and highly rated brands and you are less likely to be disappointed. Regular care will help your computer last longer.
Regularly clean it, blow the dust out of the fan, keep liquids away from it, keep the monitor clean. If it is a laptop, carry it in a sturdy laptop bag and use a laptop cooler.

Many people are fond of working from their beds. Yes, it feels nice and comfortable.
But the downside is that soft surfaces like your bed retain the computer heat, leading to overheating. Overheating will cause laptop performance to quickly deteriorate.

Be particularly careful with the cord that charges the computer; they can easily wear out when bent beside the laptop’s plug-in slot that could lead to an electrical problem.

Computers used for gaming wear out the hardware faster than those used for simple office work.
Try not to overwork the computer – the parts can burn out. Also make sure you do not leave it running constantly, and avoid running it from the battery to get a longer lifespan.

Always use a firewall and anti-virus protection. Be smart about downloads and emails.
If you’re not sure a download is from a verifiable source, or it looks suspicious, you’re better off playing it safe.
The lifespan of a computer is dependent on how well you protect it.

Source: DailyNation

Saturday, 3 March 2012

Laptop or Desktop

Are you considering buying a laptop or a desktop PC? Here are some tips that might help you. You’ll be faced with two options. Which one you end up buying will be determined by your budget and your requirements from the PC.
A desktop PC is one that will reside on a desk in your home or office. It will come with separate parts — usually a structure, which contains the brains of the PC along with a DVD or Blu-ray drive. It will typically also come with a monitor, keyboard and mouse.
A laptop, also called a notebook or netbook is an all-in-one device that is portable. It can be carried with you from room to room, between your office and home, or used while on the road. Laptops have a battery that can last anywhere between one and a half hours to eight hours, depending on the type of programs you use. Laptops have a built-in monitor, a built-in keyboard and a built-in mouse, and they can vary in size from 10 inches to 18 inches.

Performance

Back in the day, if you wanted a quick computer, you had to buy a desktop PC. Currently the performance of desktop PC’s and laptops are similar and, in some cases, equal. The only area in which desktop PC’s and laptops can differ greatly is in their ability to play games; although there are gaming laptops, they tend to be less powerful than desktop PC’s. If you want a computer to play the latest games, then you should definitely consider a desktop PC. If you want to buy a computer just so that you can view photos, use the Internet or type up documents and spreadsheets, then a laptop is a good choice.

Specifications

The key specs to look for when buying a laptop or desktop PC is the CPU, RAM (memory), graphics adapter and hard drive. The CPU is the brains of the computer; the RAM is the space where all your programs will be loaded (the more RAM you have, the more programs you can load); the graphics adapter (also known as the graphics card or graphics controller) determines how well your computer will play games; and the hard drive determines how many programs, music files, documents, videos and e-mails you will be able to store on your computer.

Laptops will generally have lower specifications than desktop PC’s, although there’s not much in it these days. A typical laptop might have less RAM and a smaller hard drive than a similarly priced desktop PC, and it will also have a less powerful graphics adapter. The CPU, which makes a big difference in computer performance, is often the same between a laptop and a PC. For the best performance in a laptop or a desktop PC, look for a model with Intel’s Core i3, Core i5 or Core i7 CPU’s, or AMD’s Phenom II CPU’s.

Screen size

When buying a laptop, you will need to decide what size screen will be suitable for your needs. A 15-inch (measured diagonally) screen means the laptop will be heavy, but you will be able to view a lot more programs on the screen at once, and in some cases fit more windows on the screen. A 14.1-inch screen offers a good balance between size and portability. You should look for a 13-inch screen or a 12-inch screen if you want a laptop that will be easy to carry with you when you’re travelling.
If browsing the Web, accessing social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter, and viewing your photos is all you will be using your laptop for then a small and light 10-inch netbook will be all you need.

For a desktop PC, a 22-inch widescreen monitor offers the best value for money, and 24-inch and 27-inch models are also available if you want something larger. It’s worth spending a bit more on the monitor, and even upsizing to a 24-inch model if you can afford it, because the monitor is the one device that you will have to look at every time you use your PC.

Burning CD’s and DVD’s

Nearly all desktop PC’s and laptops now come with a DVD burner, even if you choose to buy a cheap laptop (provided it’s not a netbook). Most laptops have a DVD burner built in, but smaller laptops, such as slimline models, may supply a DVD burner as an external unit that needs to be plugged into the laptop. Netbooks do not have a DVD burner at all. With a DVD burner you can burn CD’s as well as DVD’s. Blu-ray combo drives are also available for PC’s and laptops. These allow you to play Blu-ray movies, as well as burn CD’s and DVD’s. A Blu-ray writer is required if you want to burn your own Blu-ray discs.

Software

Nearly all laptops and desktop PC’s come with a version of Microsoft Windows 7 preinstalled. They should also come with software for burning CD’s and DVD’s and watching movies. The brand of laptop or desktop PC you buy will determine exactly what software is bundled with the product. Some laptops and desktops may also include office application software, games or educational software. Many models may also come with software to protect your computer from viruses.

Buying a laptop

If you want a computer that you can use at home, as well as take to work, then you will need a laptop. Also, you may choose to buy a laptop if you want to have more freedom to roam when using your computer at home. A fully charged laptop can give you a few hours of use and will let you work from your living room, bedroom or even your garden. On the other hand, a desktop PC will restrict you to working from the location where the PC is installed.

Buying a desktop PC

If you want a computer that can store a huge amount of music files or a computer that will let you play games, then a desktop PC is a good choice. A powerful desktop PC is generally less expensive than a powerful laptop with similar specs, and a desktop PC also has an advantage in that it can be easily expanded if your needs change (you can add more storage, RAM or a better graphics card at a later date). A laptop cannot be expanded to the same extent that a desktop PC can, although you can change the hard drive and in most cases add more RAM. Finally, desktop PC’s are far easier to repair and parts can be replaced within 1-3 working days whereas laptops have to go back to the manufacturer, meaning you could be without a PC for several weeks.

The Portugal News

Tuesday, 3 January 2012

Try this New Registry Cleaner (JetClean) to improve your PC's health

Utilities developer BlueSprig has just released JetBoost 1.0, a free Computer speedup tool designed to optimize your Computer by closing down unnecessary processes. If this doesn’t have enough optimization power for your needs, though, you could alternatively try the company’s new JetClean, a suite of tools with many more cleaning and repair options.

There’s a module to clean your Registry, for instance. A “Windows Clean” tool helps to free up hard drive space by locating and deleting leftover temporary files; an “Apps Clean” tool maintains your privacy by deleting your online, Windows and application histories; and the Shortcuts Clean module finds and deletes broken shortcuts.

You can choose these tools individually, or all at once, just by checking a few boxes. Click “Scan Now” and your chosen modules will examine your PC, reporting back on whatever issues they’ve found. And you can then review them, if you like, or just click “Repair” to fix them all at once.

Just in case that’s not enough functionality, the developers have also provided a Tools tab that lists a few useful extras. So you get a System Information program, for instance. An Uninstaller module helps you find and remove unwanted programs. The Performance Booster essentially provides the same functionality as JetBoost, temporarily closing down unnecessary processes to free up system resources. And a handy Portable option allows you to create a single JetClean executable with all these features, which you can then copy to a USB flash drive and use with any convenient Windows PC (the program runs on anything from 2000 to Windows 8).

Basic

JetClean has no shortage of features, then. But how do they perform?

The Hard Drive cleaner proved a little disappointing, finding only 1.25GB of files on our test Computer. It was already reasonably well optimized, true, but CCleaner achieved much more, recovering 2.11GB of drive space.

JetClean did better with the Apps Clean module, though, where it was able to erase more application activity histories than CCleaner could manage. The Registry Cleaner and Shortcuts Clean modules also appeared to be reasonably thorough.

Some of the stand-alone tools are a little on the basic side. The Uninstall, for instance, just calls the standard application uninstaller. There’s no extra technology, no additional checks to make sure that every trace of an application is removed.

There’s nothing particularly clever about the Startup Optimisation module, either: it just lists the programs that are configured to launch when Windows starts, and optionally allows you to disable them at a click. There’s none of the extras you’ll get with some of the competition, such as recommendations on what to disable and what to keep.

And the program has the occasional problem, which reminds you that it’s still very new. The System Information program, for instance, reported that our RAM was running at “NULL MHz”, and our memory sticks were made by “Manufacturer00″ and “Manufacturer02″. Which isn’t quite as informative as we’d hoped.

There’s still plenty to like about JetClean, particularly for Computer novices. It’s easy to use, lightweight and portable, and provides a great deal of functionality from one small download. It’s also reasonably safe, with, for example, a Rescue Center saving any deleted Registry keys, so if the cleaning goes a little too far then the program’s changes can easily be undone later.

If you’re an experienced Computer user, though, and have already built up a personal collection of great freeware maintenance and cleanup tools, then JetClean won’t appeal so much: most of the individual tools just aren’t yet powerful enough to beat the best of the competition. And it doesn’t help that key functions like the ability to schedule cleaning are reserved for the commercial JetClean PRO (a subscription-based tool with prices starting from $1.66 a month; click Upgrade within JetClean to find out more).

There’s no harm in trying the suite anyway, though, just to see what you think: JetClean really is a lightweight installation, with no browser toolbars or other annoyances to weigh you down. Install a copy for yourself, and find out exactly what the program can do for you.

BetaNews

Sunday, 20 November 2011

Ways Of Keeping Windows Computers running at High Perfomance

A slow computer is always a nuisance. Regardless of how old your computer is, you can always do something to keep it running at top speed. Just follow these important tips:

#1: Run only the necessary apps

Closing unneeded applications is one of the most basic moves you can do to increase your computer’s working speed. Aside from increasing speed, this also lessens your distractions so you are more likely to finish your work early. If you are working on Excel, close unneeded Word apps. If an app starts lagging, hit the Ctrl+Alt+Del keys and kill that app via Task Manager.

Some programs automatically start when the computer is turned on. Disabling some of those applications by unchecking the “Launch when Windows starts” box in the General or Launch settings. Before disabling any startup items, make sure that you know what you are looking at. Don’t disable anything that you are not sure about.

#2: Uninstall unwanted items

Some pre-installed applications will most likely be unused by you. Uninstall these apps by going to Control Panel > Programs and Features and uninstall the unwanted items. Be careful: Avoid removing standard Microsoft software bundles, Photoshop, and your antivirus package if you want to loose your Info. When in doubt, ask or research about the app that you want to uninstall. When you are installing needed or wanted applications, keep your eyes open for extra software installation prompts. Uncheck the box next to it to avoid installing junk software in your PC.

#3: Keep your browser safe and simple

Updated versions of browsers can sometimes have extensions and add-ons that let your browser do additional tasks such as displaying unread emails count icon. Extensions require additional resources that could sacrifice your PC speed. You can disable these extensions by adjusting your browser settings. Look for the disable option in the Tools or near the wrench icon.

#4: Schedule your antivirus scans

While running your antivirus scan during peak hours can keep your computer safe, it could also sacrifice speed. Most of these packages have a background task that runs all the time and scans every time you download new files. To keep your browsing hours free of antivirus interruptions, schedule full scans on hours that you are not on your PC. Find the best time frame for you and make sure that your on-demand scan is enabled when setting up your schedule.

#5: Physical upgrade

When you have done everything else and the computer is still slow, you may need to upgrade your computer’s Random Access Memory (RAM). This hardware acts like a short-term memory that keeps data while they’re running. If you don’t know what kind of RAM to get, contact your local computer repair shop or your computer technician, if you have one.

Keeping your computer in tip-top shape requires keen attention and regular maintenance. Cleanup or PC every now and then and follow a maintenance schedule for your regular activities. Like your house, your computer needs good housekeeping services to keep it working at high speed. This could not only extend your computer’s lifespan, but it could also make your present PC works easier for you.

http://kozmedia.com

Sunday, 13 November 2011

Seven useful Windows 7 tips

Windows 7 is a good operating system right out of the box, but tweaking some of the settings and using keyboard shortcuts can enhance the Windows experience.

Computer lovers here are seven useful Windows tips and tricks to help you get more out of Windows 7:

1. Bypass the Recycle Bin
The Windows Recycle Bin is a good safeguard against accidental file deletions. However, when you know you want to permanently delete a file, you can bypass it. Instead of pressing the Del key, press Shift+Del, then Shift+Enter to confirm.

If you prefer, you can also permanently disable the Recycle Bin. First, right-click on the Recycle Bin, then choose Properties. Click on the drive you want to disable the Recycle Bin for, then select "Don't move files to the Recycle Bin. Remove files immediately when deleted." Click the OK or Apply button to save the changes.