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How to Test and Fix Your Computer Hardware
If your computer is acting strangely, and you've already ruled out a virus, it might be gremlins. But more likely, a software error is being caused by a hardware component that's flaky, damaged, or overheated. Here are some tips and tools to help you diagnose and fix those annoying or intermittent computer problems that just seem to pop up for no apparent reason...
Continue reading "How to Test and Fix Your Computer Hardware"...All-In-One Desktops for 2012
Are all-in-one desktop PCs a good buy? I'm replacing an old computer, and am considering an all-in-one because they look sharp and don't take up a lot of desk space. What should I know before I buy?
Continue reading "All-In-One Desktops for 2012"...Upgrade Your CPU
Should I upgrade my CPU? I work with photos and videos a lot, and often wish my computer was faster. Will a CPU upgrade really help me, or are there other more important factors I should consider?
Continue reading "Upgrade Your CPU"...Computer Backup Power
What do you recommend as a backup power supply for computers? During the last storm, we lost power for several hours. If I had a battery backup, I could have gotten online to check email and weather updates. Is an 'uninterruptible power supply' what I need?
Continue reading "Computer Backup Power "...Dual Monitors: Five Good Reasons to Upgrade
I'm considering dual monitors because my 17-inch monitor seems to be shrinking. Sometimes it seems like I spend more time scrolling and tabbing between programs than on actual work. But I'm still not sure... should I upgrade to a 30-inch monitor, or go with a dual monitor setup?
Continue reading "Dual Monitors: Five Good Reasons to Upgrade"...How Fast Is Your PC?
I'm shopping for a new PC, and it's difficult to get an overall rating for how fast a computer is, under real world conditions. Some benchmarks show raw CPU speed, but I'm looking for more than that. Can you recommend any free software to measure system peformance?
Continue reading "How Fast Is Your PC?"...Should You Update Your Drivers?
I've seen ads for software that scans your computer, looking for device drivers that need to be updated. I'm not even sure what a driver is, but if everything seems to be working fine, do I really need to update them?
Continue reading "Should You Update Your Drivers?"...How To Buy a Computer Monitor
My 7-year-old monitor is slowly fading, and it's time for a bigger screen, so I'm ready to buy a new one. Does brand really matter, and what features would you say are important when buying a new monitor?
Continue reading "How To Buy a Computer Monitor"...Does "Intel Inside" Really Matter?
When shopping for a new computer, you will find two brand names of CPU to choose from: Intel and AMD. Does it really matter which brand you choose? Let's look at the numbers, and a little history to find out...
Continue reading "Does "Intel Inside" Really Matter?"...Should I Build My Own PC?
Personal computers are complex machines. But they basically consist of modules that plug together. You don't need a soldering iron or a degree in electronics. So, should you build your own PC?
Continue reading "Should I Build My Own PC?"...Is Your CPU Overheating?
A computer's CPU (central processing unit) is like a car's engine in one way. Both generate heat in proportion to how hard they work. An overheated engine can seize, stop working, and even suffer permanent damage. So can a CPU. Here's how to monitor your computer's CPU temperature and take action if you're running hot...
Continue reading "Is Your CPU Overheating?"...Should I Upgrade My Computer?
My Dell computer is almost 3 years old and is starting to feel slower than when it was new. Is it time to buy a new one, or should I upgrade it? I'm currently running Windows XP, if that factors in somehow...
Continue reading "Should I Upgrade My Computer?"...Fastest Desktop PC
I'm ready for a new desktop computer, and I need something fast. What's the fastest desktop PC on the market, and how much will it cost?
Continue reading "Fastest Desktop PC"...Cheap Gaming Computers
I'm into computer gaming, and am looking for a new desktop system. I do need to stay on a budget, but I'm not opposed to building my own system. What do you recommend for someone who is looking for a cheap gaming computer?
Continue reading "Cheap Gaming Computers"...PC Tune Up
Most people can tell when their cars need a tune-up. Odd noises, sluggish acceleration, and white smoke from the tailpipe are easily recognized signs. Computers also get out of tune and need minor adjustments to perform their best again. Here are some signs that you need a PC tune-up, and how to go about it...
Continue reading "PC Tune Up"...All-In-One Desktop PCs
All-in-one desktop PCs strive to save desktop space by integrating normally separate components of a desktop computer system into a single, compact design. There are pros and cons to the all-in-one desktop PC approach. Find out if an all-in-one computer is right for you.
Continue reading "All-In-One Desktop PCs"...Document Management Solutions
Many businesses generate and receive documents in lots of different formats: paper, email, PDF files, graphic image files, faxes, HTML, etc. Document management solutions have never been more important, or more complex. Here's an overview of the various types of document management systems available to home users, businesses and webmasters...
Continue reading "Document Management Solutions"...Which CPU is Best?
I'm ready for a new computer, and I want to build it myself. But I'm a little confused about all the CPU options from Intel and AMD. Can you explain which CPU is best for a machine that will run Windows 7 and a wide variety of software applications?
Continue reading "Which CPU is Best?"...Computer Monitor Repair
Computer monitor repair may sound like a job for an electronics expert, but some common problems with computer monitors can be fixed without shelling out a lot of money. Sometimes even today's sophisticated LCD monitors can be repaired at home. Here are a few tips on computer monitor repair...
Continue reading "Computer Monitor Repair"...CPU Temperature Monitoring
Sometimes my computer just shuts down for no apparent reason, and my office mate says maybe my CPU is running too hot. Does that sound possible, and if so how can I measure the temperature of my CPU?
Continue reading "CPU Temperature Monitoring"...CD and DVD Duplicators
So your garage band is ready to release its first album; congratulations! Or perhaps you've filmed a documentary, or developed some software that is to be distributed on CD. Either way, you need to duplicate CDs in mass quantities; say, 500 copies at a time. There are several ways to duplicate CDs or DVDs...
Continue reading "CD and DVD Duplicators"...CPU Benchmarking
How fast is your computer's central processing unit (CPU) compared to others? That's one question that CPU benchmarking can help you answer. Another good question is whether your particular CPU is performing up to manufacturer's specs; CPU benchmarking can answer that one too. Here's how to test your own CPU…
Continue reading "CPU Benchmarking"...What is Quad Core?
You will often see references to Quad-core technology when looking at high-performance personal computers. Quad-core is leading-edge computing power, very fast and of course more expensive than single or dual-core processors. But what is Quad-core on a technical level? Read on to find out…
Continue reading "What is Quad Core?"...Build Your Own Computer
You can save a good deal of money by building your own computer from components. It doesn't require advanced electronics or soldering skills; everything just plugs and screws together. Your chest will swell with pride, and your friends and family will look at you in awe. Plus, you will end up with the perfect PC for you! Let's start from the core of a PC and see what's needed, where to get it, and what it costs...
Continue reading "Build Your Own Computer"...Replace Your Motherboard
We had a storm last night and it seems that my motherboard was fried by lightning. There is a big black spot on the motherboard and some solder nearby is melted. I'm sure I need a replacement motherboard, but I've never installed one myself. Do you have any tips on replacing a motherboard?
Continue reading "Replace Your Motherboard"...USB Ports Not Working
USB ports are handy, carefree devices when they work properly. They allow you to quickly attach a camera, printer, flash drive and many other devices to your computer. But sometimes you run into a snag - you plug your gadget into a USB port, and nothing happens. Here's what to do when your USB ports are not working...
Continue reading "USB Ports Not Working"...Dead Pixel on Monitor
Sometimes that tiny spot on your monitor screen just won't come off, no matter how you scrub. That may be because it's not dirt but a dead or stuck pixel. Dead pixels are as annoying as flyspecks when you're trying to read a screen. Is there anything you can do to avoid dead pixels and their opposites - stuck pixels that remain too bright?
Continue reading "Dead Pixel on Monitor"...Update Your Device Drivers
Device drivers are software packages that keep many parts of your computer system running and working together smoothly. As you change the hardware and software components of your system, the device drivers on it may become obsolete. It's important to keep your device drivers up to date. Here's how...
Continue reading "Update Your Device Drivers"...What is Quantum Computing?
I'm trying to wrap my head around the concept of quantum computing. Can you explain it in plain English, and tell me if this is something that's available now, or if it's still in the concept phase?
Continue reading "What is Quantum Computing?"...Cleaning a Monitor
Computer screens get dusty, dirty, and dingy just like windows. But unlike glass windows, computer screens are complex, sensitive electronic devices that can be damaged by incorrect cleaning. Here's how to clean various types of computer screens safely...
Continue reading "Cleaning a Monitor"...Buying A Monitor
A good computer monitor is one of the best investments you can make. It can save your eyesight and make you more productive. Here are things to consider when buying a computer monitor...
Continue reading "Buying A Monitor"...How to Buy a Laptop
A laptop computer makes a popular gift to give or receive. But the laptop landscape is dotted with thousands of species and subspecies. Which one should you choose, and how should you buy it - online or in a big electronics store?
Continue reading "How to Buy a Laptop"...Digital Camera Memory Cards
I'm a little confused about all the different memory cards that are available for digital cameras and video cams. The memory card I bought for my digital camera is not recognized by my computer. Can you demystify this for me?
Continue reading "Digital Camera Memory Cards"...Computer Overheating
My computer sometimes shuts down at random times. A friend said it's probably overheating. How can I find out for sure, and what can be done about overheating?
Continue reading "Computer Overheating"...Inexpensive Computer Upgrades
My computer is showing signs of age, but I can't afford a new one. What hardware upgrades do you recommend to improve speed and usability for those with older computers?
Continue reading "Inexpensive Computer Upgrades"...Replace Your Power Supply
The fan inside my computer's power supply has started making an awful noise, and I'm afraid it's ready to bite the dust. Is it difficult to replace a power supply?
Continue reading "Replace Your Power Supply"...Surge Protectors
I'm looking for a surge protector for my computer equipment and I'm wondering if those power strip models with built-in surge protection are any good. What should I look for when trying to protect my computer from lightning strikes?
Continue reading "Surge Protectors"...Do Computers Get Tired?
Sometimes my computer acts weird when it's been running for several days. I've heard about something called 'electron buildup' but I'm not sure I should take it seriously. Can electronic devices really suffer from fatigue if they're on too long?
Continue reading "Do Computers Get Tired?"...How to Buy a Computer
I teach senior citizens in a community based free computer lab. They often ask what to look for when buying a computer, what software they need for email, basic Internet usage, word processing, etc. Many are on a limited budget. What would you suggest they need as a minimum?
Continue reading "How to Buy a Computer"...Upgrade Your Computer Monitor
I have a really old monitor with a small screen that's starting to flicker. I'd like to upgrade to something nice that will handle web browsing, office applications and online video. What do you recommend?
Continue reading "Upgrade Your Computer Monitor"...Fast Color Laser Printers
I'm looking for a color laser printer that's reliable and fast. A price tag under $500 would be nice... what do you recommend?
Continue reading "Fast Color Laser Printers"...Cheap Desktop Computers
I'm looking for a basic entry-level desktop computer to give to a high-school student as a Christmas gift. What do you recommend in the budget category that can handle web surfing, email and word processing?
Continue reading "Cheap Desktop Computers"...Free HDTV on Your PC
HDTV (high definition television) is the wave of the future. Right now many television stations are transitioning to Hi Def, and if you are an avid TV watcher, then you'll want to make this transition as well. But if you don't have a fancy new HDTV, you can still get free HDTV on your PC. Here's how...
Continue reading "Free HDTV on Your PC"...New Power Supply
My computer is making a loud noise that sounds like a fan going bad. A friend told me I should replace the power supply. Can you give me some tips on installing a new power supply?
Continue reading "New Power Supply"...HP OfficeJet Pro L7780
HP is known for its versatile line of business and home office equipment. One of their latest releases is the HP OfficeJet Pro L7780 All-In-One. This office machine operates as both a color and a black and white printer, copier, scanner and fax machine. I've had mine for a few weeks, so it's time for a review...
Continue reading "HP OfficeJet Pro L7780"...What is Firewire?
I was told that I should have a Firewire cable to transfer videos from my camcorder to my computer. I have USB connectors on my PC, is that the same thing, or can the Firewire plug in to that?
Continue reading "What is Firewire?"...Green Computing
Kermit the Frog told us that it's not easy being green, but that concept also applies to computers and how they can be more friendly to our planet. Learn how computers impact the environment, and how Green Computing can make a difference...
Continue reading "Green Computing"...Do I Need A New Computer?
Our computer is three years old, and my teenager says it's obsolete. He wants us to buy a new computer with more speed, more memory, etc. Can you give me some pointers on how to determine if I really need to buy a new computer?
Continue reading "Do I Need A New Computer?"...Which Printer Should I Buy?
At first glance, an inkjet printer may seem appealing because of its relatively low price tag compared to laser printers. Even though the ink cartridges often cost nearly as much as the printer, it still might make sense to buy an inkjet. Read on for more information on how to choose the printer that's best for you and your needs…
Continue reading "Which Printer Should I Buy?"...Dual Monitors
Did you ever wish you had a REALLY big computer screen? Here's a tip... use a dual monitor (or multi monitor) setup to extend your desktop across two or more screens. Both Windows and Mac computers have the ability to simulate one BIG screen using a dual or multi monitor configuration. Here's the scoop on the hardware and software required, and how to setup your dual monitor system...
Continue reading "Dual Monitors"...Which GPS Should I Buy?
GPS systems are useful for finding your way around, but choosing the navigation system that's right for you might be just as challenging as traveling without one. Here are some guidelines on the best GPS systems so you don't get lost in the market, or on the road…
Continue reading "Which GPS Should I Buy?"...What is Blu-Ray?
I've seen ads for movies on Blu-Ray discs but I'm not sure what that means. What is Blu-Ray and how is it different from a regular DVD disc? Do I need a special player to view a Blu-Ray disc?
Continue reading "What is Blu-Ray?"...Which TV Should I Buy?
So you're in the market for a new TV... but all those techie buzzwords have your head spinning? Should you go for CRT, LCD, HDTV? And what about Plasma -- will it stain the rug? Read on to de-mystify all those terms and see my recommendations for the TV that's best for you...
Continue reading "Which TV Should I Buy?"...What is Bluetooth?
This is the age of wireless devices. Information is relevant only if it is accessible anywhere and everywhere. From phones to computers, every device is aiming at becoming wireless and providing more accessibility to the users. Read on to learn how Bluetooth technology is making wireless connections at home, at the office, and on the go...
Continue reading "What is Bluetooth?"...Adding Memory
If your computer seems to stagger under the burden of your commands, responding slowly, freezing or timing you out; if working at your system feels like bicycling uphill, consider adding extra memory. Adding memory to your computer isn't so hard -- here's a step-by-step guide to figuring out if you need more RAM, learning what kind to buy and installing it yourself...
Continue reading "Adding Memory"...Best Cell Phone
With hundreds of cell phones on the market you can narrow down your choices by first deciding what features you need or want. Read on for a handy guide to selecting the cell phone that's right for you...
Continue reading "Best Cell Phone"...Rip & Burn Basics
I have a big music collection on CDROM discs. I'd like to get all this music on my computer and burn my own mix CDs. Can you help me get started?
Continue reading "Rip & Burn Basics"...What is BIOS?
I've heard you can change BIOS settings to affect performance and startup options, but I've always been hesitant to poke around in the BIOS setup screens. Can you demystify this for me?
Continue reading "What is BIOS?"...Which Camcorder Should I Buy?
I'm looking for a camcorder, but the selection and features are overwhelming. What's a good model for someone who wants decent quality without spending a pile of money?
Continue reading "Which Camcorder Should I Buy?"...Zune or Ipod?
Still can’t decide if you are iPodish or Zunish? Let’s look at some facts and figures to help you decide whether an iPod or a Zune is your best choice for a portable music player...
Continue reading "Zune or Ipod?"...Changing Disk Partitions
I downloaded Cute Partition Manager and was just about to delete the restore partition from the D drive of my old computer. I just want to make sure that doing so won't mess up the info on the C drive. Drive D is formatted FAT32 and drive C is NTFS. I really could use the extra space, but can't afford to lose the files on the C drive...
Continue reading "Changing Disk Partitions"...SATA and IDE Hard Drives?
I want to install the hard drive from my old computer as the secondary hard drive of my new computer. The new computer is an HP with a SATA hard drive. My old hard drive is a Seagate Ultra ATA/100. How do I add this hard drive to my new computer?
Continue reading "SATA and IDE Hard Drives?"...Dirty Mouse?
When I click on the Windows Start button it jumps up and down like a jack in the box. Even worse are arrowed pop-up boxes, as it takes clicking on the arrow 4 or 5 times, before it calms down and steadies itself. I don't know if it's a virus or something else, but it's driving me nuts... can you help?
Continue reading "Dirty Mouse?"...Exploding CDROMs
I was installing a game when the CDROM disc exploded into pieces inside the computer. Is this common, and what would cause such a thing?
Continue reading "Exploding CDROMs"...CDROM Icon Missing
When I go to My Computer the CDROM and DVD icons are gone. They were there yesterday, and working fine. It seems like this happened after I removed some CD burner software. Now I can't install anything from a CDROM, or play music CD's -- help!
Continue reading "CDROM Icon Missing"...Buying a Computer
I teach senior citizens in a community based computer lab. They often ask what to look for when buying a computer, what software they need for email, basic Internet usage, word processing, etc. Many are on a limited budget. What would you suggest they need as a minimum?
Continue reading "Buying a Computer"...CDROM Tray Opens
My CDROM drive door keeps opening and closing by itself without prompting. Do I need to change a setting or is my computer possessed?
Continue reading "CDROM Tray Opens"...Computer Restarts Itself
My PC running on Windows XP frequently restarts it self for no apparent reason. Any files or internet pages I have been working on are lost. The PC reboots to the desktop and I have to redo all my work. Any ideas please?
Continue reading "Computer Restarts Itself"...Home Networking
We just purchased a second computer and now we'd like to share the printer and Internet connection between them. How do I set up a simple home network?
Continue reading "Home Networking"...Inkjet Cartridges - Replace or Refill?
Inkjet printers are cheap. Keeping them stocked with ink can cost a small fortune. The manufacturers say to use only new original equipment cartridges, in part because it's an important piece of their revenue stream. But on the shelf at Office Whopper, next to the $38 brand-name cartridges, sits a $30 no-name job and a refill kit for only $20. It seems like a no-brainer, but are these cheaper alternatives your best bet?
Continue reading "Inkjet Cartridges - Replace or Refill?"...Lifetime of a CDROM disk
I need to archive some files on CDROM disks. I hear a lot about the differences in quality of CDs. How do I determine what is a high quality CD that will last at least several years?
Continue reading "Lifetime of a CDROM disk"...Get an Uninterruptible Power Supply
During stormy weather the power often flickers in my home, causing my computer to reboot. And of course I lose whatever I was working on at the time. I've heard that an uninterruptible power supply will protect my computer from power glitches. But I know nothing about them, what do you recommend?
Continue reading "Get an Uninterruptible Power Supply"...Hard Drive Crash
I have a Maxtor 160GB hard drive that has crashed and won't boot up. So I figured I would put in another hard drive and load up XP on it to boot and make my old hard drive a slave. After booting up, the old drive shows in My Computer, but Windows tells me it has not been formatted yet. I don't want to formate this drive because it has data I need. How do I get this data off the old hard drive and onto my other drive or a CDROM?
Continue reading "Hard Drive Crash"...Computer shuts down by itself
Lately my computer has been shutting down and rebooting for no apparent reason. When it restarts, it usually says it has recovered from a serious error. It SEEMS to happen when I am using my computer to listen to music.
Continue reading "Computer shuts down by itself"...CMOS checksum error
When I boot up, I get a CMOS checksum error message and I must press F1 to continue or DELETE to enter Setup. How can I solve this problem?
Continue reading "CMOS checksum error"...Turning F-Lock key ON automatically
On certain Microsoft keyboards, the function keys (F1, F2, F3, etc.) will not work normally unless you press the F-Lock key. Arrogantly flouting decades of keyboard convention, Microsoft markets Natural and Multimedia and Office keyboards that have the F-keys reassigned to common Microsoft Office actions. Here's how to fix it...
Continue reading "Turning F-Lock key ON automatically"...
