TechSlip.net

To have two monitors hooked up to one computer you will need a video card with dual output. Once you have both monitors plugged into the ports you will need to make sure they are being displayed on your desktop correctly.

To do so, navigate to the Display settings for your computer. You will see a box with a 1 and a box with a 2. The first box is for your main monitor and the second box is for your other. Click the second box and you can adjust the settings for that monitor. If you are not sure which monitor is 1 or 2, click Identify Monitor and a 1 or 2 will be displayed on the screen.

CD-R : This is a standard CD format that you can burn information on. CD-R can hold 700MB of data. This is the most common for creating boot discs, music discs, or small file backups.

CD-RW : This is the rewritable version of a CD-R. Information can be burned to it and can then be fully erased so you can put new information on it. This is great for people who want to reuse CDs or are creating daily backups.

DVD-R : This is the standard DVD format that you can burn information to. DVD-R can hold 4.7GB of information. These are great for creating copies of movies, storing lots of files, or storing video projects.

DVD+R : This is the newer version of the DVD format that provides a higher success rate when burning.

DVD-RW : This is the rewritable version of a DVD-R. Information can be burned to it, fully erased, and burned again. Some DVD players do not accept this format.

DVD+RW : Another format of rewritable DVD. Just a higher success rate for burning.

DVD+/-R DL : This format is a double sided disc. It provides you with twice the capacity (9GB). Great for large backups or high quality movies.

Blue-ray : This is the newest format on the market. It is used for extremely large backups and High Definition movies. Though expensive, these hold 25GB on single layer discs, and 50GB on the double layer.

This can happen for a couple of reasons. Either your colors are set to 256 and need to be changed to 16-bit or 32-bit (which can be changed by going to your display settings, the same place you change the resolution). Or you need to install your graphics driver. You can update your graphics driver at the manufacturer website or install the driver from a CD if you have it.

Once you have your updated driver you can install it manually by clicking Start, then choose Control Panel, then System, and Device Manager. In the list you will see “Display Adapter”, right click on your adapter and choose Properties, then select the Driver tab and Update Driver.

If you do not have any burning software installed on your computer you can use Windows’ built in software that usually works just fine. Just follow the steps.

1. Navigate to the files or folder that you want to burn on to a CD.
2. Right click the files or folder, and choose Send To
3. Find your CD burner in the list (example : CD-RW Drive)
4. A balloon will appear in the bottom right of the taskbar, click it
5. Once the window is open it will show your files to be written
6. Click Write these files to CD, located on the left

7. Follow the easy steps and you are done!

If the balloon disappears from the bottom corner, just click My Computer and choose your CD burner. You can also add more files by copying and pasting files to the list.

Hardware : Hardware is a physical part that makes up your computer.

Peripherals : Types of hardware that you can add such as a mouse or keyboard.

Software : Any program that is on your computer. Anything from word processors to games.

Types of hardware :

Hard drive : A piece of hardware where all of your data is stored. There are different sizes of hard drives, most now are measured by gigabytes (GB). The more GB, the more files it can hold.

Processor (CPU) : Processes all data and computer programs. Processors are measured in gigahertz (Ghz) and the higher the number, the faster the speed. Computers now have dual core and quad core processors which can perform tasks a lot quicker. Both are good for gaming, video editing, and other high performance tasks.

Motherboard : The main component inside a computer that provides electrical connections so that all components can communicate with each other. It is the board that holds your processor, video card, PCI cards, and everything else.

RAM : Random Access Memory is what stores data when you are using the computer and then returns it when finished. It allows programs to run while you use them, and puts them away when you close them. RAM is measured in megabytes (MB) and gigabytes (GB). Most computers now have over 1GB since Windows Vista uses up more memory. If you are running 512MB or less, you should probably upgrade your computer to increase performance.

CD/DVD Rom or Burners : CD & DVD roms are the drives that can only read information off of CDs and DVDs. Burners are the drives that can put information on to blank CDs or DVDs.

So you are looking to buy a new computer and you are trying to decide what you need. Here are a few tips from me that may help you decide. First before I list them, do NOT let others try to persuade you to choose one just because they like it, it all depends on the user and what they need not someone else. With that being said let’s do it.

Linux : This OS is growing users and we know why. For one most versions of Linux are free. They are “open source” types of operating systems which mean people work on new software, coding, and features for them and share it publicly with others that use Linux. There are a lot more add-ons and customizable features if you use this Operating System. It may look different if you have never seen it before but it is really easy to get used to and who knows you may like it. If you are a gamer then Linux may not be for you. They do have games that work with it and you can always run software to play Windows games with it if you like. So if it is free you don’t have much to lose. Open-source users, students, curious people give it a try!

Windows : This is probably the most common heard OS. Everything you buy comes with it, you see it everywhere, and everyone is always talking about it. Windows is easy to navigate, family friendly, and usually dummy proof. Now with Windows Vista out that may not be the case. Lot of people are complaining about bugs, not able to get used to the look and feel, etc. I personally like Windows XP and that’s what I will stick with because Vista is just a new shiny package with a new name to me. If you like to have the newest and prettiest I guess Vista would be for you. Windows does have a LOT of errors and bugs. Once you get them situated it is usually not a hassle. Gamers usually go for Windows because it supports basically every PC game that is out and still coming out. Windows is not free and official software must be purchased. There is a lot of “freeware” programs available if you don’t want to dish out the cash. Gamer, student, or family users I would recommend Windows.

Mac : Mac is still a growing community and I think it is mainly the price personally. Macs are solid, fast, secure running machines. The interface is nice looking and is easy to use. If you do graphic design, web design, audio/video editing, etc. Mac is a top choice for this. Lots of businesses who go along these lines purchase Macs. They do have a heftier price tag usually around $2,000. They have a clean look to them and are reliable. Most people like the fact that they “can’t get viruses”. Macs CAN get viruses and they do make Anti-Virus software for them. They are more secure but with the growing hacking community I don’t think anyone can ever stop viruses. Macs now have Windows emulation software which allows you to run Windows programs on your Mac, COOL huh. So if your a designer, media type person, power hungry monster, and you have a lot of money to dish out then Mac is for you.

These are my summaries for each all written in my opinion. Hopefully the information helps out.

When your computer is acting up all of a sudden for no reason you may be infected. If you are receiving odd file errors, programs running differently, internet homepage changed, pop-ups or other ads, then this a good hint you need to get it fixed. Here are the different types of infections on a computer :

Adware : Advertisements or pop ups that are displayed while on the internet or your computer is running.

Spyware : Spyware is a file or files that are on a computer and gather information from it, hence the name “Spy”ware. These files can gather general computer information, internet history & information, keystrokes, and in some cases other higher risk things.

Virus : A file or files that infect your computer. These files will usually spread around the whole hard drive and will cause errors, delete programs, delete windows files, and other harmful things to your computer. In some cases viruses may not be as critical but still take your precautions.

How do you get viruses, spyware, or adware?

Just by going on the internet without protection can get you into these messes. Installing files that you are not sure where they are from, bad web sites, bad e-mails, and many other ways.

How do I know if I am infected?

· Computer is running very slow all of a sudden
· Windows is taking forever to start up
· Ads are popping up on your desktop
· Programs run that you have never seen and act in funny ways
· Programs you have used in the past are acting odd, things are missing, etc
· Internet homepage has changed without you doing it or you cannot change the homepage
· You are redirected to websites you did not enter in the address bar
· Favorite list or bookmarks have sites you didn’t add
· Computer seems to be loading quite a bit when not in use
These are just a few things to look for.

How do I remove and prevent infections?

· Install a good Internet Security software (Make sure it includes Anti-Virus, Anti-Spyware, Firewall, etc., Norton Internet Security works good. There is also some free software under our “Free Downloads” link at the top.
· Make sure you have the latest Windows Updates
· Remove any programs or files that you do not need or look to be suspicious
· Check your Startup programs for odd files and remove them
· Turn on your Windows Firewall or firewall from software if you have it
· Run FULL system scans at least once a week
· Try scanning for infections in Safe Mode if the computer is really bad
· Watch what sites you go to and what you download
· Just use your common sense, don’t click things that you are not sure of, check with someone who knows computers before making a big choice your not sure on

That’s it and I hope this helps!

When you go to shop for a new printer you will probably see the choice of Laser or Inkjet printers. This can be a hard decision for someone who doesn’t know the difference. This small guide should help you decide so you don’t make the wrong decision.

Laser Printers

Laser printers use a toner which is made up of a powder like substance and is actually “burnt” to the page. This gives it a smoother finish and a better quality. Great machines for people wanting to print a lot monthly or for businesses. Toner is more expensive (usually around $50-$150 for a cartridge) but allows more prints (depending on machines 1,500-5,000 prints roughly). Color Lasers will require 4 separate cartridges and this means spending more money but for the quality and speed it is well worth it.

Laser printers can come in two ways. First the black printing or “monochrome” and then the color printing. The standard black printing Lasers start out at lower prices of about $120 and up. The color Lasers will start out at around $220 and go up from there. Some advantages of Laser printers include :

· Speed: A laser printer can print more quickly than an inkjet printer.

· Lower cost: Buying toner will cost you a lot less per page than replacing inkjet cartridges in the long run.

· Quiet: A laser printer is usually quieter than inkjet printers. It is usually not a problem unless it is in an office or the person just doesn’t like the noise.

· Best quality printing: Quality on printing as far as documents and pictures on laser paper are far greater than inkjet prints.

Inkjet Printers

Inkjet printers are smaller machines that use an ink, which is a liquid form that soaks into the paper. The older style uses a standard Tri-color and a Black cartridge ($15-$40 for a black, $20-$40 for a color, depending on machines). The newer machines are now taking a standard 6 cartridges and some with even more. These cartridges are smaller and are lower in price. Inkjet printers will have a decent quality print depending on how much you want to spend on the machine. The photo style printers are great for printing on glossy paper and will have a much better quality result. Prices on Inkjet printers have came down a lot and now are available for $40 and up. Price of course usually adding more features and quality.

Advantages :

· Versatility: An inkjet can print on many types of paper including glossy photo paper, specialty paper, and T-shirt transfers.

· Smaller in size: Smaller size means saving you space.

· Price: Inkjets are a lot cheaper than Laser

· More options: Some inkjet printers have more printing options as far as paper sizes (you can purchase wide format printers for banners, legal size paper, etc.) Newer inkjets have display screens for previewing pictures, showing stats on the printer, and more. Media card slots are found in most inkjet printers.

Summary

If you are looking to save money in the long run, want better quality prints, want faster printer speeds, then go for a Laser if you can afford it.

If you want a smaller machine, for a student or small at home use, printing photos, and don’t mind replacing ink quite a bit then Inkjet is for you.

If you are having printing problems then try these few tips.
· Make sure your USB or Parallel cable is plugged into the back of your computer
· Make sure the AC adapter is plugged in
· Make sure your Printer is installed correctly. Check by doing the following, Click Start, Control Panel, Printers and Other Hardware, Printers. This will show a list of your Printers that are on your computer. Make sure there is a Check mark on the icon and it says Ready. If it doesn’t then you may need to reinstall the drivers from the CD provided from your manufacturer and restart your computer.
· If your printer is not on the list then install it. Click Add Printer on the left of the Printers and Other Hardware screen. Follow the Wizard directions. If you do not have a CD with the driver, find it off your manufacturer’s website. Restart your computer and it should be installed.
· Is your printer jammed or out of ink? Check for paper jams in the machine and ink levels. Some printers need ink in all cartridges to print.

These are a few basic tips.

Restore points are a great feature of Windows XP. Let’s say you install a program or change files on your computer and later on you decide that you made a wrong move and want to back track. Well Restore Points do just that. You can choose a day from the calendar and restore your computer to how it was that day. Now this is sort of limited and may not remove all things that you have done up until then but it works fairly well. Windows will automatically create a restore point within a 24 hour period or usually whenever a driver is installed, windows is updated, etc. If Windows does not automatically do it, you can manually create your own. Here is some basic how-to’s for Restore Points.

· Click Start
· Click Programs, Accessories, System Tools, System Restore
· You can select to create a Restore Point here manually or restore your computer back to a certain date
· Basically just go through the Wizard, click a date, a time, and it’s as easy as it sounds
· Restart your computer and it will be restored back to that date