Christmas tips for your Laptop, MacBook or PC Part 2

PLEASE MOST OF THE EARLIER TIPS IN  PART ONE ARE APPLICABLE TO THE MAC OS X Carrying Your MacBook If you carry your MacBook in a bag or briefcase, remove any small, loose items (such as paper clips, staples, or coins) that could accidentally get inside your computer through an opening, such as the optical drive slot, or get stuck inside a port. Important: The MacBook power adapter port contains a magnet that can erase data on your credit card, iPod, or other device. To preserve your data, keep magnetically sensitive items away from the power adapter port. Cleaning Your MacBook Follow these general rules when cleaning the outside of your computer and its components: Shut down your MacBook, detach the power adapter, and remove the battery. Use a damp, soft, lint-free cloth to clean the computer’s exterior. Avoid getting moisture in any openings. Do not spray any type of liquid directly on the computer. Don’t use aerosol sprays, solvents, or abrasives.

Cleaning Your MacBook Display Follow these general rules when cleaning the screen. Shut down your MacBook, detach the power adapter, and remove the battery. Dampen a clean, soft, lint-free cloth or paper with water only and wipe the screen. Do not spray liquid directly on the screen. Storing Your MacBook If you are going to store your MacBook for an extended period of time, keep it in a cool location (ideally, 22° C or about 71° F) and do one of the following to preserve your MacBook battery life: Discharge the battery 50 percent before storing your MacBook. When storing your computer for longer than five months, discharge the battery to approximately 50 percent and then remove it from the MacBook. If you are storing your computer for an extended period, recharge your battery to 50 percent every six months or so.

Christmas tips for your Laptop, MacBook or PC Part 1

During this Festive season, There are several things that you should really do to take care of your laptop when you are trying to make sure it lasts a long time. From the most simple maintenance to that which requires a few minutes of your time it can significantly increase the life of your laptop and in return save you a bundle of money. With these simple and easy to follow suggestions you are sure to help you learn how to take care of your laptop like a pro.


MORE DETAIL MACBOOK RELATED TIPS ON PART TWO
1) Locking your Laptop, MacBook or PC - This might sound unnecessary but locking your laptop will keep anyone around you from looking at what you are working on and ensure that anything private stays that way. To lock your laptop easily all you have to do is just press the Windows Key + L at the same time and it will lock your laptop. To unlock your laptop simply press Ctrl + Atl + Del and then enter your password and you will be returned back to exactly where you were previously.
2) Vent maintenance - This means you need to check all of the vents on your laptop at least once a week to ensure that they are clear and not blocked. Be sure you do not push anything into the air vents; the safest way to clean these vents typically is using a simple can of air that can be purchased at most computer supply stores.
3) Check the fan - If your fan is not working correctly you could experience some huge problems with your laptop overheating, which can cause problems with your monitor, memory or even the hard drive. To avoid this problem you need to make sure that the fan is working properly. If you are unsure whether the fan is working properly check the website for the laptop manufacturer, you can frequently find software there to use for testing purposes.
4) Keeping lap burn to a minimum - This may seem like a minor detail but when you experience it you will suddenly notice the significance of this. In order to help prevent this and ensure your laptop is getting proper airflow make sure you are using something such as a desk or similar hard surface to hold your laptop anytime you are using it.
5) Avoiding soft spots - This is a problem that is quite common for many people using Laptop, MacBook or PC, if you are just sitting around on the couch you might prop your laptop up on a pillow on your lap. This may seem like a great idea but it can cause a huge problem since it can significantly restrict the airflow to fans and vents causing your laptop to heat up significantly.
6) Safely storing your laptop - While the great laptop bags that are sold are wonderful for transporting your laptop it is very important that you turn your laptop off before you actually put it into the bag. If you do not power it down you could melt your laptop or potentially catch it on fire.
7) Drinks beware - If you are thinking about getting a drink it is important to make sure that your drink is as far away from your laptop as possible. Drinks and laptops do not mix well under any circumstances regardless of what you are drinking.
8) Avoiding shocks - If you are looking to move your laptop around a bit you should always ensure that it is on a sturdy surface that will protect it from unexpectedly jostling around. If the laptop is well protected you can safely move it around, however if the laptop is not stable you should turn it off before moving it around.
9) Humidity is not your friend - regardless of the reason for the humidity, you should do your best to protect your laptop from humidity. This can cause damage to the motherboard as well as possible damage to the screen.
10) Dust is the enemy of your computer - You should always make sure that your laptop is kept away from dust; this can clog fans and even vents which will cause your laptop to heat up significantly. To help protect the laptop it is important to look for a way to protect your computer such as keeping it on a table or a desk.
11) Off the floor - There is never any reason to leave your laptop on the floor even for a brief moment. While it might seem like a good place for only a moment it can create problems if you have a pet that decides to use the computer as a chew toy, or if someone accidentally steps on the laptop

Errors After Your PC / Laptop Starts

Error after windows starts

Here are some tips to remove error messages:

Errors that happen after windows is started are often caused by misbehaving programs or invalid enteries in your startup list. To stop these programs from running press and hold the windows key (has the windows flag on it).

In the run box type msconfig.

Now click on startup tab and click disable all.

You can look though the list and re-check a few such as security software, but the more you leave unchecked the better your computer will run.

When you are done click apply and restart the computer. If this get rid of the error message you can go back into msconfig and use the process of elimination to find out which program is causing the problem if you like.

Otherwise just leave them unchecked  and no harm is done.

Computer too slow

Computer is Slow

Here are some tips to speed up your computer:

The most common reason for slow computer is too much running in the background. To clear some background processes press and hold the windows hey (has the windows flag on it) and press r. In the run box type msconfig. Now click on that starup tab and click disable all. You can look through the list and re-check a few such as security software, but the more you leave unchecked the better your computer will run. When you are done click apply and restart the computer.

Also you need to clear your cache, cookies, index.dat  and temp files. Go to your web Browser (Internet explorer/ Firefox). Go to the tools option and do the cleaning.

How to Remove a Virus

Here are some steps to get rid of a Virus:
Boot into safe mode with networking. To get into safe mode turn off your computer, then turn it back on and start tapping the F8 key. You should get a screen that allows you to choose safe mode with networking with your keyboard. Once in Safe mode open Internet Explorer. In the address bar type:google and then search and download free version of virus removal tools. Some very good ones are avg, malware bytes, kasperski. Make sure when downloading, you dont click on the adverts.
After you instal the virus removal tool, do an update. Then scan your pc.
Reboot after you remove everything it finds and see if the virus is gone, well done.
If not, go back into safe mode with networking. Open Internet Explorer and go to google and Download Combofix from one of the mirrors and run it. Make sure you do not interrupt Combofix and check to see if the Virus is gone after you get the combofix log file.
Note: if you cannot download malwarebytes or Combofix, you can download them on another working computer and transfer them over with a flash drive or other storage device/media.

How to Remove a Virus

Virus ???????

Here are some steps to get rid of a Virus:
Boot into safe mode with networking. To get into safe mode turn off your computer, then turn it back on and start tapping the F8 key. You should get a screen that allows you to choose safe mode with networking with your keyboard. Once in Safe mode open Internet Explorer. In the address bar type:google and then search and download free version of virus removal tools. Some very good ones are avg, malware bytes, kasperski. Make sure when downloading, you dont click on the adverts.
After you instal the virus removal tool, do an update. Then scan your pc.
Reboot after you remove everything it finds and see if the virus is gone, well done.
If not, go back into safe mode with networking. Open Internet Explorer and go to google and Download Combofix from one of the mirrors and run it. Make sure you do not interrupt Combofix and check to see if the Virus is gone after you get the combofix log file.
Note: if you cannot download malwarebytes or Combofix, you can download them on another working computer and transfer them over with a flash drive or other storage device/media.

Virus on your pc ?

Is it a virus

Here are some steps to get rid of a Virus:
Boot into safe mode with networking. To get into safe mode turn off your computer, then turn it back on and start tapping the F8 key. You should get a screen that allows you to choose safe mode with networking with your keyboard. Once in Safe mode open Internet Explorer. In the address bar type:google and then search and download free version of virus removal tools. Some very good ones are avg, malware bytes, kasperski. Make sure when downloading, you dont click on the adverts.
After you instal the virus removal tool, do an update. Then scan your pc.
Reboot after you remove everything it finds and see if the virus is gone, well done.
If not, go back into safe mode with networking. Open Internet Explorer and go to google and Download Combofix from one of the mirrors and run it. Make sure you do not interrupt Combofix and check to see if the Virus is gone after you get the combofix log file.
Note: if you cannot download malwarebytes or Combofix, you can download them on another working computer and transfer them over with a flash drive or other storage device/media.

Problems with Web Browser and Connection

Problems with web browser

Do you use firefox or internet exporer

Firefox-

Generally problems with firefox are caused be addons. Make sure all firefox windows are closed. Press and hold the windows key (has the windows flag on it) and press r. In the run box, type firefox-safe-mode and press enter. If you fail to get the Firefox safe mode window, press  ctrl+alt+delete, click on processes tab, and end all firefox.exe processes tab, and end all firefox.exe try running firefox-safe-mode again. Now check the disable all add-ons box, the Reset toolbars and controls box, and the Reset all preferences to Firefox defaults box. Now press Make Changes and Restart.

Internet Explorer-
Generally problems with Internet Explorer are also caused by addones. Close all Internet Explorer windows. Press and hold the windows key (has the windows flag on it) and press R. In the run box, type inetcpl.cpl and press enter. The Internet Options window should come up. If not press ctrl+alt+delete, click the processes tab, and end all iexplor.exe processes then try it again. In the Internet Options window click on the advanced tab then click the reset button. (If you do not have the reset button, you will need to download the latest Internet Explorer from Microsoft.com.) Click the reset button on the next window and wait for it to complete.

Windows Not starting UP

Can you get into safe mode?

Yes-
In Safe mode, go to start, programs, accessories, system tool, system restore. Try restoring your computer to a point that is was working .If that does not work, boot back into safe mode, press and hold the windows key (has the windows flag on it) then press R. You should get a run box.

Type "msconfig" in the run box and and enter. Click on the "startup" tab and then click disable all. Click on the "services" tab, check "hide all microsoft services", then click "disable all". Now apply the changes and try rebooting back into normal mood. If that does not work reboot back into safe mode, but this time choose safe mode with networking.

In Safe mode go to your manufacturer’s (HP,Dell,etc), find the drivers and download section, and download all the drivers for your specific model. Now Reboot again and see if it works. If this still not works we will needs to do a repair install/startup repair. To do a startup repair we will need your operating system disk ( XP,Vista,Windows7).

Put the the cd in your computer and turn off the computer, turn the computer back on, watch for a screen thats says press any key to boot from cd and make sure you press a keyas soon as you see that. If you do not see the press any key screen, you will need to go into the bios and change the boot sequence so that the cd-rom drive is first (A google search should explain changing the boot sequence in more detail). This will be different depending on wich operating system you have. Assuming you have Windows7 , hit next on the choose language to install page, now click the repair your computer link, then follow the directions on the screen to perform a startup repair.

No-
We will need to try a startup repair.

To do a startup repair we will need your operating system disk (XP,Vista,Windows7). Put the cd in your computer, turn your computer off, turn the computer back on, watch for a screen that says that says press any key to boot from cd, and make sure you press a key as soon as you see that. If you do not see the press any key screen, you will need to go into the bios and change to boot sequence so that the cd-rom drive is first ( A Google search should explain changing the boot sequence in more detail). This wil be different depending on which operating system you have. Assuming you windows7, hit nest on the choose language to install page, now click the repair your computer link, then follow the directions on the screen to perform a startup repair.

Very Common Computer Fixes

 Most common issues with computers and laptop are easily fixeable, by simply following some basic steps. we would be looking at issues from virus to Blue screen of death.

IN the next few post we would be tackling different issues as detailed as possible.

 

If you cant solve a computer related issue, fell free and send us a detailed description as possible and we would try and give a desireable answer.

 

Here we go !

Windows 8 new operating system

Sample picture from windows 8, fully working. I am going to have browse and work through over the weekend.
My experience so far has been good. Remarkably responsive.
Will keep you posted.

Funny day

Being st work all day bored.it's differently been very quiet and dull.around 3 ish, decided to close for the week, doors shut and then viola a rush.customers just started gliding in, and closing was now not possible.
Just closing now for home and now. Dare I say too much job for a 4 hour time frame. My office was like a market lol.
Funny how true is the saying "if you don't give up, breakthrough is around the corner".
Sorry got to go and get on with some work.

Chromium OS..... What do you think?

See the full gallery on Posterous

We have decided to take the chrome os to an optimal level of testing. Lets see what the fuss is about cloud based os.
Bring you experiences on board.

Stream movies to your tv for cheap Part 2

In Continuation to the Earlier post, below are very detailed informations about what to use for connecting both TV?PC

Where you connect your device (VCR players, DVD players, high-definition signal equipment such asTelevision, HDTV tuners, Media Center PCs, or PCs) to your TV depends on the equipment type and the cables you are using. Use the following chart as a guide for connecting your equipment and cable to your TV. Several connection types have been listed, but the connections on the back of your TV may differ depending on model type.

Cable type	Connector(s) and notes
HDMI	HDMI stands for High-Definition Multimedia Interface. An HDMI connection is used to transfer high definition digital video and high definition audio signals. Ideal for HDTV, HDMI supports standard, enhanced, or high-definition video and audio in a smaller cable size than DVI. To use an HDMI connection, simply attach the HDMI cable to the first possible HDMI connectors on the TV and source device. Figure 1: HDMI connectors
DVI	DVI stands for Digital Visual Interface. A DVI connection is used to transfer high definition digital video signals without audio. A separate audio connection must be used . DVI cables have been used primarily in monitors but can also be found in HDTV receivers, DVD players, computers, or other video equipment that demand better signal quality over standard. Over time, various types of DVI connectors and cables have been created. If you do not know the differences between DVI types, setting up your video and audio equipment can be difficult and frustrating. At this time, DVI typically comes in five different types: DVI-A, DVI-D single link, DVI-D dual link, DVI-I single link, and DVI-I dual link. If you plan on using DVI, it is important to know the following types and their differences before purchasing equipment: DVI-A is designed only for analog video signals. You should not attempt to use a DVI-A cable with a digital TV. Figure 2: DVI-A DVI-D single link is designed for digital video signals and can support high-definition display resolutions up to 1,920 x 1,080. Figure 3: DVI-D single link DVI-D dual link is designed for digital video signals and can support high-definition display resolutions up to 2,048 x 1,536. Figure 4: DVI-D dual link DVI-I single link is designed for digital and analog video signals and can support high-definition display resolutions up to about 1,920 x 1,080 @ 60Hz. Figure 5: DVI-I single link DVI-I dual channel is designed for digital video signals and can support high-definition display resolutions up to 2,048 x 1,536 @ 60Hz. Figure 6: DVI-I dual link Figure 7: DVI-D NOTE:DVI supports High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP).
Component	Component video is an analog connection that is capable of supporting a high-definition video signals (video resolutions greater than 480i). Component video comes with three separate cable strands for video; red, blue, and green/turquoise. Some cables may also have two more red and white strands for audio. Used by HDTV receivers, DVD players, and other devices equipped with a YPbPr component connections. To use, connect each colored cable end into the corresponding connector of the same color. Red into the red Pr-connector (YPbPr1 or Cr1/Pr1) Video In. Green into the green Y-connector (YPbPr1 or Y1) Video In. Blue into the blue Pb-connector (YPbPr1 or Cb1/Pb1) Video In. Figure 8: Component connection Component video uses separate RCA audio connections to transfer standard analog stereo signals. Figure 9: Component with audio connectors Connect the red and white cables into the red and white audio connections. Red represent the right channel or right speaker), and white represents the left channel/speaker (L). Figure 10: Audio
S-video	S-video is a better choice over standard composite video cables for delivering a better standard TV picture, but cannot deliver high definition video. An S-video cable has a round connector with four pins. Used to connect a DVD player, VCR, cable or satellite tuner/decoder, or a game console equipped with a S-video connector. To use, connect into the video inputs on the TV and source device: S-video or AV1/SV1. Separate audio cables must be used.
Composite	Composite (not to be confused with component) is the most common and probably the most compatible connection type. Composite offers the least in video quality and performance when compared against the other video connection types on this page. Composite video connections are typically used to transfer standard analog video signals. They are not used for HDTV or digital video purposes. To use a composite connection, connect the video cable (yellow) into the video connection on the TV and the source device (usually labeled as Video, AV, or AV1). Figure 11: Video Composite video uses separate RCA audio connections to transfer standard analog stereo signals. Connect the red and white cables into the red and white audio connections next to the video cable. Red represent the right channel or right speaker), and white represents the left channel/speaker (L). Figure 12: Audio
Digital optical audio	Digital optical audio can support S/Pdif and carries a digital audio as an optical signal. This cable type is capable of delivering much higher quality signals while supporting more speakers (5.1). Used by DTVs, home theater systems, digital entertainment centers, PCs and some game consoles. To use, connect a digital optical cable into the connectors on the TV and source device. If both the TV and connected device (receiver) is capable of using Dolby Digital audio, select Dolby Digital audio from the menus of each device, otherwise, select PCM audio or Digital Audio.
VGA	VGA stands for Video Graphics Array and is primarily used by PCs to deliver VGA compatible analog display resolutions. A VGA connector has three rows of five pins. To use, connect into the VGA video connector on the back of the computer or other VGA device. A separate audio cable must be used. Once connected, set the computer or source device to a display resolution that is compatible for both the TV and the PC.
RCA stereo audio	Most televisions, video camcorders, VCRs, and videodisc players have RCA connectors for stereo audio. To use, connect the red and white cables into the right and left RCA audio connector on the TV (AV section)and source devices. Red represent the right channel or right speaker), and white represents the left channel/speaker (L). Figure 13: RCA Audio
Coaxial or RF	RF or coaxial cable is used mainly for antennas but is also supported by most cable and satellite set top boxes and VCRs. May be used with set-top boxes if no other choice is available. Cable screws onto RF connector. To connect, insert the end of the cable over the connector hand tighten the retaining nut to secure. A separate audio cable must be used.
i.LINK	i.LINK is a type of interface connection that uses a serial transfer system to transfer multimedia, such as digital images and sound, between devices with i.LINK terminals. For certain models, only D-VHS decks, AV HDD recorders, and Blu-ray Disc recorders can be connected to the TVs with i.LINK. Device recognition, control, recording, and playback operations may not be possible on some devices. Devices such as DVD recorders, digital video cameras, PCs, or PC peripheral devices may not meet the specifications for the TV and if so, cannot work with i.LINK. Figure 14: i-Link connector
PictBridge	The PictBridge connector allows photos to be printed using a compatible PictBridge-equipped USB printer. To print photos, first view your photographs (from a camera card in the memory card reader as an example). Then, connect the printer to the television using the USB cable from the printer. Once connected, the TV and printer recognize each other and the TV displays on-screen instructions. Follow the on-screen instructions to print your photos. Figure 15: PictBridge connector on TV

Stream movies to your tv for cheap

Most of us has laptop and desktop pc, and love to watch movies.
if you do? Then try the following.its affordable, cheap and easy diy.
First check your connectivity one your pc/laptop and your television. Most common and universal connectors are HDMI CABLES, VGA, S-VIDEO leads,

Can't Connect to Internet...? ? ?

Need a New PC...Please Read This. BUILD A NEW PC

Yeah there are advantages to buying a new already built PC, but also there are loads of benefits building it yourself.

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MY CHALLENGE FOR YOU IS, GO TO ANY TOP RETAILER (pc world, currys, dixon etc) get a specification of a pc you like and try and build to that exact specification.one major difference is the massive price slash. EXACT SPECS, MAYBE EVEN BETTER DESIGN AND WAY CHAEPER.

Benefits of building a new PC

The most distinguishing advantage to building a computer from scratch is the selection of parts. Most computer systems come pre-built with the specifications and components already selected for you. This often can lead the user to have to sacrifice certain features that they may not want to give up. By building a computer from components, the user is able to choose the parts that best match the computer system they desire. Some vendors do allow you to customize a computer system, but you are still limited to their selection of parts.
Another thing that users may not be aware of with pre-built systems is that two of the exact same model computer can actually have very different parts. The reason for this has to do with suppliers, parts available at the time the system was built and just pure luck. For example, Dell might switch between multiple suppliers of memory because one is less expensive then the other. Buying all the parts on your own guarantees what parts you will get in your PC. 
Customization and Custom "Balancing": You build exactly the machine you want; no more, no less. This is an advantage you can only get by designing and building your own machine from parts you select--you cannot get this by buying a machine (unless you're extraordinarily lucky!) Part of this flexibility is being able to balance the system precisely as you desire. If you need a very powerful video card but not a lot of memory, you can get it. If you need 200 GB of hard disk space but only a so-so processor, you can get that too. In contrast, it's much more difficult to get pre-built PCs that are very "high-end" in one area but "middle-of-the-road" in others. 
Quality: Most home-built PCs use higher-quality components than those used by companies selling pre-made PCs. The most common reason for this is that homebuilders care more about the longevity and quality of their systems than big companies do; that's just common sense. (Although high quality does require that you pay attention when shopping for components, and be willing to shell out a few extra bucks!) 
Upgradability and Expandability: Building your own PC makes it relatively easy to upgrade or expand. Since you know what is in the box, you know most of what you need to upgrade it. In addition, if you plan ahead for upgradeability you can buy components that will facilitate this. Finally, home-built PCs use industry-standard components, avoiding the pitfalls of proprietary designs.
Easier "Non-Standard" Operating System Use: Most regular PCs are designed under the assumption that they will run the latest Microsoft consumer operating system. They are usually only tested on that operating system. If you plan to go with Linux, or BeOS, or something else "out of the ordinary", being able to pick your own components can be very helpful. For example, most retail PCs are equipped with Winmodems, which won't work in a Linux environment. (Also, most technical support people at big computer companies have no clue about anything other than consumer-grade Windows installs.)