Do you have a question on computers ? Having difficulty with a program ? Want to know how to do something on the computer and don't know where to start ?
Drop me a line and I will endeavor to answer your question. Please realise that this is aimed at the new computer user. If you have a deeply technical or highly specific question, if I cannot answer it I will at least point you in the right direction to give you a start.
If I get plenty of questions here I will post a top ten most frequently asked questions and will answer those top ten in another article.
So fire away...
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
How To Change The Way Your Mouse Pointer Looks
A little tired of the quaint white mouse pointer ?
This quick tip will help you change the look of your mouse pointer and other mouse function looks.
1. Go to you Start Menu, click once on the Control Panel.
2. Double left click on Mouse
3. Click once on the Pointers Tab
4. Select a new Scheme from the drop down list, in the customise screen, you will see the updated change.
5. You can also in the customise screen, change individually, each selected item, click on browse and select a new icon for that mouse specific function.
OK, when finished click once on OK or the Apply button, changes may take a few seconds to adjust.
That's it, all done !!!
This quick tip will help you change the look of your mouse pointer and other mouse function looks.
1. Go to you Start Menu, click once on the Control Panel.
2. Double left click on Mouse
3. Click once on the Pointers Tab
4. Select a new Scheme from the drop down list, in the customise screen, you will see the updated change.
5. You can also in the customise screen, change individually, each selected item, click on browse and select a new icon for that mouse specific function.
OK, when finished click once on OK or the Apply button, changes may take a few seconds to adjust.
That's it, all done !!!
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Parental Supervision - Better Than Any Software Defence
I quite often get asked, 'whats the best software for my young children to be protected on the Internet'. Most parents are stunned when I tell them that software doesn't exist. Why ? Simple, there is no software that can do what a living breathing parent can do.
Now, whilst some programs can help, to a degree, they are not 100% bullet proof. The philosophy I like to impart on parents is its like television, there are some programs at certain times that you will let them watch, and there are those programs and times that they will not be allowed to watch.
Use of the computer by young children can have the same philosophy. The best way to know what your child is doing on the computer is to be involved with them.
Here is a basic foundation to help and assist with understanding and maintaining computer usage by young children.
Ask your child what they are doing on the computer if you are not actively sitting with them. If you see a screen that you are not familiar with ask questions about it.
Intensely monitor your children's use of items like Social Networking Sites and Instant Messenger Programs. Most Social Networking sites like Habbo Hotel, Facebook and Myspace are extremely popular with alot of kids and teens.
Social Networking sites are sites that allow people to communicate via a web page, but also allow personal information to be left. I have an article in more detail about this, you can read more about it at the bottom of this article.
Instant Messaging programs are like mobile phones using text messaging, but with a small difference, these programs will allow you to add people as a list of friends that can text one another in real time. In other words one or more people can communicate to each other using text, voice or camera as fast as they can type or talk. So these messages moving back and forth is the same as having a face to face conversation.
If your children are using social networking sites, ask to look at their page, be aware that like instant messaging, people can be added as friends and will not usually use their own names, so you need to know who these people are as listed friends.
Same goes for Instant Messaging programs, who are their friends listed on the program, look at setting up a recording of conversations that your children have with your friends.
Some tell tale signs can be apparent in child behaviour too if you believe something is amiss. Your child may suddenly close a program when you enter the room where the computer is. Your child may be reluctant to talk about their activities or try and change the subject when you ask what they are doing. Obviously further investigation of your child's computer use is warranted.
The main aim of this article is not to scare you, the parent. The aim is to make you more aware of your children's activities and keeping kids computer use a safe experience.
Here are some more resources about how to keep your children safe using the computer and using the Internet.
More information about protecting your kids using the Internet here
Another great article I came across with more information on How TO Protect Your Kids using the Internet here
More information about Social Networking here.
Now, whilst some programs can help, to a degree, they are not 100% bullet proof. The philosophy I like to impart on parents is its like television, there are some programs at certain times that you will let them watch, and there are those programs and times that they will not be allowed to watch.
Use of the computer by young children can have the same philosophy. The best way to know what your child is doing on the computer is to be involved with them.
Here is a basic foundation to help and assist with understanding and maintaining computer usage by young children.
Ask your child what they are doing on the computer if you are not actively sitting with them. If you see a screen that you are not familiar with ask questions about it.
Intensely monitor your children's use of items like Social Networking Sites and Instant Messenger Programs. Most Social Networking sites like Habbo Hotel, Facebook and Myspace are extremely popular with alot of kids and teens.
Social Networking sites are sites that allow people to communicate via a web page, but also allow personal information to be left. I have an article in more detail about this, you can read more about it at the bottom of this article.
Instant Messaging programs are like mobile phones using text messaging, but with a small difference, these programs will allow you to add people as a list of friends that can text one another in real time. In other words one or more people can communicate to each other using text, voice or camera as fast as they can type or talk. So these messages moving back and forth is the same as having a face to face conversation.
If your children are using social networking sites, ask to look at their page, be aware that like instant messaging, people can be added as friends and will not usually use their own names, so you need to know who these people are as listed friends.
Same goes for Instant Messaging programs, who are their friends listed on the program, look at setting up a recording of conversations that your children have with your friends.
Some tell tale signs can be apparent in child behaviour too if you believe something is amiss. Your child may suddenly close a program when you enter the room where the computer is. Your child may be reluctant to talk about their activities or try and change the subject when you ask what they are doing. Obviously further investigation of your child's computer use is warranted.
The main aim of this article is not to scare you, the parent. The aim is to make you more aware of your children's activities and keeping kids computer use a safe experience.
Here are some more resources about how to keep your children safe using the computer and using the Internet.
More information about protecting your kids using the Internet here
Another great article I came across with more information on How TO Protect Your Kids using the Internet here
More information about Social Networking here.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Computer Diagnostics - Software Tools and What To Do With The Results
There can be one process for a home computer that can be guaranteed. As some stage you will have a problem with the computer. The first thing to do is NOT panic. With some basic and useful tools, once can assess what is going on with the computer and how to alleviate and remove the nature of the problem to get your computer back on its feet.
Usually, for most of us technicians, when we are in front of a clients computer, we are looking for problems and we need to find them fast. With the right tools, we can usually find out in about ten minutes what the problem is.
Now having said that, this is a guide only, sometimes problems are obvious to us, sometimes they involve deeper research involving a longer time to resolve.
Here are some diagnostic tools I carry inside a Memory Stick that is handy to have with me so I can plug in into a computer and start using my tools.
Anti - Virus and Anti - Spyware
A trio of tools here, these three are the first to put onto a computer if they are not there already. Spybot is great for finding alot of Trojans, Internet browser Toolbars, Hijackers. Adaware is complementary in use with Spybot and is great for Deep scans of files for nasties, removal of registry entries left over by removal of nasties. AVG is one of the most popular free Virus removal programs at the moment, whilst not as broad as a paid for Antivirus program, it still does a very good job.
Spybot Search and Destroy
Adaware Free Edition
AVG Free Edition
Clean and Removal Tools
After removing nasties, you will end up with left over short cuts, broken files lurking in different places and incomplete registry entries. Here I use a couple of tools to to help clean up the garbage left over. CCleaner is a great tool for removing temporary files, Internet cache, cookies, Internet history and also has a great Registry removal tool. One word of caution though, it is a very powerful program and you can easily go overboard and remove too much. The Windows Installer Cleanup tool is a useful tool for cleaning up a program that was either installed incorrectly or for some reason the uninstall information is missing and you can not remove it via add/remove programs. The MSI tool will only list and remove those programs that were installed using the Windows Installer and is also not recommended for removing Office 2007.
ccleaner
MSI removal tool found just under the MORE INFORMATION heading
More Specific Programs To Remove Targeted Nasties
There are on occasion a particularly new nasty that will appear from time to time that can initially be removed using traditional removal tools will re-appear after restarting a computer. Some of these are self - replicating trojans, Web page Hijackers, Cool Web Toolbars and Root kits.
Some trojans have so many files lying around that when they are removed they create instructions to self replicate when a computer is rebooted. Hijack this is a useful tool to help find and remove these start up entries. This also goes hand in hand with manual removal of some of these nasties. Please be extremely careful using Hijack This, it is an extremely powerful tool and used incorrectly can stop your computer from even starting up.
Web page Hijackers are items that appear when they create a new homepage when you start your Internet browser, when you attempt to navigate away from that page after a few seconds it will reload the new homepage. Also these nasties may 'hijack' your desktop wallpaper with a message saying you have been infected with spyware. Third, you may see down the bottom right a windows message in a continual pop up claiming windows has detected spyware. The message will read you need to click the message to download software to remove the nasties. All this does is make a connection over the internet and attempt to obtain more spyware to download to your computer. Again manual removal and used in conjunction with Hijack This can alleviate the issue.
Coolwebs are another form of Trojan that install themselves into your Internet browser without your permission. CWShredder is a one click tool to remove these types of trojans.
Rootkits are highly targeted files that install and integrate themselves into the system base of Windows. These are extremely difficult items to remove as they integrate themselves into specific core files and become a part of Windows and on occasion, the only way to remove them is a complete system restore. Rootkit removal tools are like Hijack this, be extremely careful in their use otherwise you may stop your computer from functioning normally. I will not list any specific root kits here, as research is required to obtain the right removal tool for the right rootkit.
Hijack This
CWShredder
One can use Google or Yahoo and various Anti-virus company websites for information on rootkits and their removal.
Driver Updates
Drivers are the software on your computer that exchange information and controls for your hardware to be interpreted for use on Windows. So essentially its the go-between for information exchange between various hardware and Windows.
Sisoft SANDRA is a great diagnostic tool for finding out key information on specific hardware inside the computer. This tool I have found to be useful when an older computer is lacking a specific driver and I do not have any other information (like motherboard manuals) to tell me what specific driver is required for that particular hardware. If the incorrect driver is installed for the wrong hardware, the hardware will just simply not be able to work and function normally.
Sisoft SANDRA
So there we have a group of tools that can assist in diagnosing general and specifically targeted issues and ways to help resolve them.
Usually, for most of us technicians, when we are in front of a clients computer, we are looking for problems and we need to find them fast. With the right tools, we can usually find out in about ten minutes what the problem is.
Now having said that, this is a guide only, sometimes problems are obvious to us, sometimes they involve deeper research involving a longer time to resolve.
Here are some diagnostic tools I carry inside a Memory Stick that is handy to have with me so I can plug in into a computer and start using my tools.
Anti - Virus and Anti - Spyware
A trio of tools here, these three are the first to put onto a computer if they are not there already. Spybot is great for finding alot of Trojans, Internet browser Toolbars, Hijackers. Adaware is complementary in use with Spybot and is great for Deep scans of files for nasties, removal of registry entries left over by removal of nasties. AVG is one of the most popular free Virus removal programs at the moment, whilst not as broad as a paid for Antivirus program, it still does a very good job.
Spybot Search and Destroy
Adaware Free Edition
AVG Free Edition
Clean and Removal Tools
After removing nasties, you will end up with left over short cuts, broken files lurking in different places and incomplete registry entries. Here I use a couple of tools to to help clean up the garbage left over. CCleaner is a great tool for removing temporary files, Internet cache, cookies, Internet history and also has a great Registry removal tool. One word of caution though, it is a very powerful program and you can easily go overboard and remove too much. The Windows Installer Cleanup tool is a useful tool for cleaning up a program that was either installed incorrectly or for some reason the uninstall information is missing and you can not remove it via add/remove programs. The MSI tool will only list and remove those programs that were installed using the Windows Installer and is also not recommended for removing Office 2007.
ccleaner
MSI removal tool found just under the MORE INFORMATION heading
More Specific Programs To Remove Targeted Nasties
There are on occasion a particularly new nasty that will appear from time to time that can initially be removed using traditional removal tools will re-appear after restarting a computer. Some of these are self - replicating trojans, Web page Hijackers, Cool Web Toolbars and Root kits.
Some trojans have so many files lying around that when they are removed they create instructions to self replicate when a computer is rebooted. Hijack this is a useful tool to help find and remove these start up entries. This also goes hand in hand with manual removal of some of these nasties. Please be extremely careful using Hijack This, it is an extremely powerful tool and used incorrectly can stop your computer from even starting up.
Web page Hijackers are items that appear when they create a new homepage when you start your Internet browser, when you attempt to navigate away from that page after a few seconds it will reload the new homepage. Also these nasties may 'hijack' your desktop wallpaper with a message saying you have been infected with spyware. Third, you may see down the bottom right a windows message in a continual pop up claiming windows has detected spyware. The message will read you need to click the message to download software to remove the nasties. All this does is make a connection over the internet and attempt to obtain more spyware to download to your computer. Again manual removal and used in conjunction with Hijack This can alleviate the issue.
Coolwebs are another form of Trojan that install themselves into your Internet browser without your permission. CWShredder is a one click tool to remove these types of trojans.
Rootkits are highly targeted files that install and integrate themselves into the system base of Windows. These are extremely difficult items to remove as they integrate themselves into specific core files and become a part of Windows and on occasion, the only way to remove them is a complete system restore. Rootkit removal tools are like Hijack this, be extremely careful in their use otherwise you may stop your computer from functioning normally. I will not list any specific root kits here, as research is required to obtain the right removal tool for the right rootkit.
Hijack This
CWShredder
One can use Google or Yahoo and various Anti-virus company websites for information on rootkits and their removal.
Driver Updates
Drivers are the software on your computer that exchange information and controls for your hardware to be interpreted for use on Windows. So essentially its the go-between for information exchange between various hardware and Windows.
Sisoft SANDRA is a great diagnostic tool for finding out key information on specific hardware inside the computer. This tool I have found to be useful when an older computer is lacking a specific driver and I do not have any other information (like motherboard manuals) to tell me what specific driver is required for that particular hardware. If the incorrect driver is installed for the wrong hardware, the hardware will just simply not be able to work and function normally.
Sisoft SANDRA
So there we have a group of tools that can assist in diagnosing general and specifically targeted issues and ways to help resolve them.
Friday, August 8, 2008
An Alternative To Microsoft Products ?
If you have bought a new computer over the last 12 months from a large retailer, the computer may contain a 'bundle' of programs in addition to your hardware.
For example, I purchased a HP computer from a retail store. I purchased this particular model for one reason. If I need to completely re-install Windows and get up and running again on the Internet I can have it completed within 30 minutes. This is a feature of alot of Compaq and HP computers.
Yo may also find find bundled an Anti-virus program, an Office program, usually MS Office, and a bunch of 'Trial-ware' games.
But did you know you can get a whole bunch of different programs and for free ? You didn't ? GREAT !!!!
Here's a list of either, programs I use myself or have been recommended to me by colleagues or clients that are free to use. I will also provide a little blurb so yo know what the program does before you even download and try it.
Open Office - Collaborative and individual suite of Productivity programs
A free alternative to Microsoft Office. A suite of programs designed with word processing, spread sheeting, database creation, presentation software and more. It has compatibility with other Office suites, so for example if you use the Word Processing function you can save the file as a Microsoft Word document.
The other great feature is with the licensing you can freely use the program, share it with others, use it commercially and still install it on as many computers as you like.
Obtain it here - Open Office
Picasa - Photo Editing
Picasa is a program recommended to me by a client that allows you to find and organise your digital photos. It also provides editing and effect functions as well as a facility to help share your photos through email or on a website for others to view.
Obtain it here - Picasa
Windows Movie Maker - Video and DVD home video creation
A freely available program that you may already have and didn't know it. Available on computers with Windows XP Service Pack 2 and Windows Vista. The program can allow you to trim and edit video, insert slides, and create Title sheets. You can also import and edit sound.
Output files are created as Windows Media Video files (WMV) but other third party software can allow you to change the format and create playable DVD movies to store and play on DVD discs.
Don't have it ? Get the latest version here - Windows Movie Maker
Music Player - Play music, obtain music from your music cd collection
There are so many these days the number of new ones are on the increase daily. Most will play back MP3 format music, purchase music online, play music cds, rip your music cd's to create MP3's and some also have a facility to download updated information, like lyrics, Artist Title, Artist Album, Artist or Album pictures and may also have an equaliser.
Here are a few of the most popular
Winamp - Features : MP3 music player, Ipod sync, Internet radio, customisable skins, Asian language support. Free and purchasable versions available.
Itunes - From Apple Computing, one of the most downloaded today. Features: MP3 music player (tracks are converted to Apples proprietary AAC format) Ipod sync, Internet radio, online shop for music, video, music videos, tv shows, pod casts
Yahoo Music Player - MP3 music player, rip cd tracks, Internet radio, freely exchange music play lists with friends.
Free Games - Something to while away a lazy Sunday afternoon
Most sites are either games that need to be downloaded and installed on your computer or will actively play within your Internet browser (so no download required)
Free Games - Free puzzles, role play, shoot em up, simulation, card games, Internet and downloadable games.
Miniclip Free Games - Lots of family friendly games
Download Free Games - More family friendly puzzles, board games, chess games, guessing games.
Enjoy !
For example, I purchased a HP computer from a retail store. I purchased this particular model for one reason. If I need to completely re-install Windows and get up and running again on the Internet I can have it completed within 30 minutes. This is a feature of alot of Compaq and HP computers.
Yo may also find find bundled an Anti-virus program, an Office program, usually MS Office, and a bunch of 'Trial-ware' games.
But did you know you can get a whole bunch of different programs and for free ? You didn't ? GREAT !!!!
Here's a list of either, programs I use myself or have been recommended to me by colleagues or clients that are free to use. I will also provide a little blurb so yo know what the program does before you even download and try it.
Open Office - Collaborative and individual suite of Productivity programs
A free alternative to Microsoft Office. A suite of programs designed with word processing, spread sheeting, database creation, presentation software and more. It has compatibility with other Office suites, so for example if you use the Word Processing function you can save the file as a Microsoft Word document.
The other great feature is with the licensing you can freely use the program, share it with others, use it commercially and still install it on as many computers as you like.
Obtain it here - Open Office
Picasa - Photo Editing
Picasa is a program recommended to me by a client that allows you to find and organise your digital photos. It also provides editing and effect functions as well as a facility to help share your photos through email or on a website for others to view.
Obtain it here - Picasa
Windows Movie Maker - Video and DVD home video creation
A freely available program that you may already have and didn't know it. Available on computers with Windows XP Service Pack 2 and Windows Vista. The program can allow you to trim and edit video, insert slides, and create Title sheets. You can also import and edit sound.
Output files are created as Windows Media Video files (WMV) but other third party software can allow you to change the format and create playable DVD movies to store and play on DVD discs.
Don't have it ? Get the latest version here - Windows Movie Maker
Music Player - Play music, obtain music from your music cd collection
There are so many these days the number of new ones are on the increase daily. Most will play back MP3 format music, purchase music online, play music cds, rip your music cd's to create MP3's and some also have a facility to download updated information, like lyrics, Artist Title, Artist Album, Artist or Album pictures and may also have an equaliser.
Here are a few of the most popular
Winamp - Features : MP3 music player, Ipod sync, Internet radio, customisable skins, Asian language support. Free and purchasable versions available.
Itunes - From Apple Computing, one of the most downloaded today. Features: MP3 music player (tracks are converted to Apples proprietary AAC format) Ipod sync, Internet radio, online shop for music, video, music videos, tv shows, pod casts
Yahoo Music Player - MP3 music player, rip cd tracks, Internet radio, freely exchange music play lists with friends.
Free Games - Something to while away a lazy Sunday afternoon
Most sites are either games that need to be downloaded and installed on your computer or will actively play within your Internet browser (so no download required)
Free Games - Free puzzles, role play, shoot em up, simulation, card games, Internet and downloadable games.
Miniclip Free Games - Lots of family friendly games
Download Free Games - More family friendly puzzles, board games, chess games, guessing games.
Enjoy !
How To Handle Problems When Installing New Programs
When installing a new program on your computer, it is a quite straight forward process. Insert the program CD or DVD into your drive, close the drive and automatically the installation process for the program will start.
Every now and again, you will come across a program that will present all sorts of issues. I experienced this myself just recently with a new game purchase. So here are some tips on how to handle these 'issues' and what you can do to resolve them.
I have inserted the disc, but nothing happens ?
Most Windows based computers have what is known as an 'autoplay' feature. This Windows feature will detect the type of disc you have inserted in your disc drive and play the appropriate disc type or program. These are;
Music disc - start the default music player and commence playing music (like a music cd)
Video disc - start the default video player and commence playing the video (like a standard DVD movie that plays on your lounge room DVD player)
Computer Game - start the game if it is already installed on the computer or start the install process.
Program disc - start the default install process and commence installing the program so you can use its features, these are known as data programs, like Accounting or Tax software, Office Programs, Video or Photo Editing software and the like.
When you insert a 'program' (data type) disc, autoplay should commence installing the program.
If autoplay does not start, you have these quick options,
Open My Computer by double clicking on the My Computer Icon on the desktop. When you have a CD or DVD inserted into your drive, double click the CD/DVD drive icon (usually E:\ drive), the program should now commence.
If it still does not work, most likely the disc is faulty, return the product from where you purchased for an exchange of faulty product.
I have the installation process running, but now the program wants a Product Key ?
This is an anti-piracy process, started a number of years ago by Microsoft and a few other companies.
The CD or Product Key is usually found on the back of the CD cover your program came in, on the front or inside the manual supplied with the software, or in the manual that has been supplied electronically on the disc. Occasionally you may find the product key on the disc itself.
Type in the product key as shown, do not worry about Capitalising the letters. Some programs will require a dash like this '-' (without the quotes) between the numbers/letters combination.
Sometimes a program will ask for a product key and you find one was not supplied ! (Like a game I just purchased, grrrr).
What to do !!! Several options here, most programs will have an 1800 toll free phone number you can contact for product support.
Return your product to where you purchased from and ask a salesperson that you product needs a product key and was not supplied. Usually a quick product swap will fix this, but check the software contains a product key before leaving the retail store.
If you have tried the two options above and are still unsuccessful, return the product and ask for an exchange to a similar product or refund.
I have the installation process running, but now the install won't finish because it can find xxxx.dll ?
This can occur for several reasons. Sometimes a program your installing for the first time cannot read the CD/DVD in the drive or the disc itself may be faulty (by not actually having the file the program is looking for) unfortunately this does occur.
It may be that it has misread the disc, if it is asking for a location of the file, a box may have popped up on the screen asking for a file location. Find the file by clicking 'find file' and open the DVD drive and check each folder for the file in question. If it is found, click the file name once and click open, this should continue the install process.
I have the finished installing the program, I double click the new icon on my Desktop, but the program wont start ?
Did the program ask you to restart Windows ? If so, some programs will not operate until you have restarted Windows.
Did a message appear with something like 'cannot start X program as the file xxxx.exe is not found or missing'. This can appear if a program has been put on your computer but there was an issue with the program on release and you will need to download a 'patch' from the program manufacturer's website to run and update the program before you can start using it.
Also, you will see on occasion a program will say it installed successfully, but actually, it reached 99% of install. Simply go to your Control Panel and in Add/Remove programs (in Windows XP) or Programs and Features (in Windows Vista) un-install the program, restart your computer and install a second time.
I want to run my program, but it is asking to insert the disc ?
Most programs will be able to operate on your computer after you have once installed the program from a disc. Some programs, especially games, will not allow you to operate the program unless you have the original disc you installed the program in the cd/dvd drive.
This is another anti-piracy measure and is standard for some program types, so don't be alarmed.
Hopefully some of these tips provided here have shed some light on a few common problems yo may experience when installing new software from a program disc.
Every now and again, you will come across a program that will present all sorts of issues. I experienced this myself just recently with a new game purchase. So here are some tips on how to handle these 'issues' and what you can do to resolve them.
I have inserted the disc, but nothing happens ?
Most Windows based computers have what is known as an 'autoplay' feature. This Windows feature will detect the type of disc you have inserted in your disc drive and play the appropriate disc type or program. These are;
Music disc - start the default music player and commence playing music (like a music cd)
Video disc - start the default video player and commence playing the video (like a standard DVD movie that plays on your lounge room DVD player)
Computer Game - start the game if it is already installed on the computer or start the install process.
Program disc - start the default install process and commence installing the program so you can use its features, these are known as data programs, like Accounting or Tax software, Office Programs, Video or Photo Editing software and the like.
When you insert a 'program' (data type) disc, autoplay should commence installing the program.
If autoplay does not start, you have these quick options,
Open My Computer by double clicking on the My Computer Icon on the desktop. When you have a CD or DVD inserted into your drive, double click the CD/DVD drive icon (usually E:\ drive), the program should now commence.
If it still does not work, most likely the disc is faulty, return the product from where you purchased for an exchange of faulty product.
I have the installation process running, but now the program wants a Product Key ?
This is an anti-piracy process, started a number of years ago by Microsoft and a few other companies.
The CD or Product Key is usually found on the back of the CD cover your program came in, on the front or inside the manual supplied with the software, or in the manual that has been supplied electronically on the disc. Occasionally you may find the product key on the disc itself.
Type in the product key as shown, do not worry about Capitalising the letters. Some programs will require a dash like this '-' (without the quotes) between the numbers/letters combination.
Sometimes a program will ask for a product key and you find one was not supplied ! (Like a game I just purchased, grrrr).
What to do !!! Several options here, most programs will have an 1800 toll free phone number you can contact for product support.
Return your product to where you purchased from and ask a salesperson that you product needs a product key and was not supplied. Usually a quick product swap will fix this, but check the software contains a product key before leaving the retail store.
If you have tried the two options above and are still unsuccessful, return the product and ask for an exchange to a similar product or refund.
I have the installation process running, but now the install won't finish because it can find xxxx.dll ?
This can occur for several reasons. Sometimes a program your installing for the first time cannot read the CD/DVD in the drive or the disc itself may be faulty (by not actually having the file the program is looking for) unfortunately this does occur.
It may be that it has misread the disc, if it is asking for a location of the file, a box may have popped up on the screen asking for a file location. Find the file by clicking 'find file' and open the DVD drive and check each folder for the file in question. If it is found, click the file name once and click open, this should continue the install process.
I have the finished installing the program, I double click the new icon on my Desktop, but the program wont start ?
Did the program ask you to restart Windows ? If so, some programs will not operate until you have restarted Windows.
Did a message appear with something like 'cannot start X program as the file xxxx.exe is not found or missing'. This can appear if a program has been put on your computer but there was an issue with the program on release and you will need to download a 'patch' from the program manufacturer's website to run and update the program before you can start using it.
Also, you will see on occasion a program will say it installed successfully, but actually, it reached 99% of install. Simply go to your Control Panel and in Add/Remove programs (in Windows XP) or Programs and Features (in Windows Vista) un-install the program, restart your computer and install a second time.
I want to run my program, but it is asking to insert the disc ?
Most programs will be able to operate on your computer after you have once installed the program from a disc. Some programs, especially games, will not allow you to operate the program unless you have the original disc you installed the program in the cd/dvd drive.
This is another anti-piracy measure and is standard for some program types, so don't be alarmed.
Hopefully some of these tips provided here have shed some light on a few common problems yo may experience when installing new software from a program disc.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Is Free Software really Free ?
I know some of the terms you come across on the Internet can be confusing for some, especially for items termed "software". Lets break down some of the common terms about such software to assist you in understanding what you are using.
Public Domain Software
Software created by a single developer or small company.
There is no copyright on the product.
Software may be freely distributed by any and all means.
You may be able to change, create or modify without express permission from the author/s.
You may use the software without restriction
Software may be used for commercial gain
Public Domain Software types - More often found with computer code or software developed and distributed under the GNU licence for using with the Linux Operating System.
Freeware
Software created by a developer or small company.
They retain all copyright on the product.
Software may be freely distributed by any and all means.
Unable to change, create or modify without express permission from the author/s.
You may use the software without restriction (depends on licence structure)
You may not use the software for commercial gain
Freeware types - small games, utilities, widgets, software that is usually a pre-cursor to the developer testing user interest or a future commercial product.
Shareware / Trial ware
Software created by a developer or small company.
They retain all copyright on the product.
Software may be freely distributed by any and all means or may have restrictions on distribution.
Unable to change, create or modify without express permission from the author/s.
You may use the software for a specified period of time.
You may have all or limited functionality of the product during the "trial period"
You may not use the software for commercial gain.
Option to pay a small fee to continue using the software after the trial period has expired.
Shareware types - Larger games, utilities, widgets, some Anti-spy ware or Anti-Virus product software that is usually a pre-cursor to the developer testing user interest or a future commercial product.
Commercial Software
Software created by a developer, company or corporation.
They retain all copyright on the product.
Software must be purchased usually through a retailer or third party provider.
Unable to change, create or modify doing so they incur liability from the copyright holders.
You may use the software for an indefinite or specified period of time.
You have all functionality of the product.
You may not use the software for commercial gain nor may you distribute the program.
Usually, restricted to operating the software for 1 user only (on 1 PC).
Commercial Software types - Commercial games, Major utilities, Anti-spy ware or Anti-Virus product software, Video and Photo Editing Software, CAD and image software, Music Software, Office Suites.
Almost all types of software, especially, freeware, trial ware, shareware and commercial products outline in the EULA (an End User Licence Agreement) what legal rights, statutory rights and explicit rights you may or may not have with using the software.
This is a legal and binding agreement between you and the software issuer. Most people don't realise that when you walk into a retail store and buy software, you are not buying the CD or DVD or manual, or the box it is all provided in. But you are purchasing the 'right' to legally use the software as outlined in the licence agreement.
In other words, if you buy software that has in it's agreement, 'You may use this product on 1 (one) computer only at one time'. Don't give the disc to a family member or friend to put on their computer if you continue to use it on yours.
I am not trying to scare you or explain your legal rights, copyright and software licencing is a complex and difficult subject to understand for the general layman. I am only providing a general understanding of this complex issue. Please always consult someone in the legal profession for further information on your rights with using computer software.
Public Domain Software
Software created by a single developer or small company.
There is no copyright on the product.
Software may be freely distributed by any and all means.
You may be able to change, create or modify without express permission from the author/s.
You may use the software without restriction
Software may be used for commercial gain
Public Domain Software types - More often found with computer code or software developed and distributed under the GNU licence for using with the Linux Operating System.
Freeware
Software created by a developer or small company.
They retain all copyright on the product.
Software may be freely distributed by any and all means.
Unable to change, create or modify without express permission from the author/s.
You may use the software without restriction (depends on licence structure)
You may not use the software for commercial gain
Freeware types - small games, utilities, widgets, software that is usually a pre-cursor to the developer testing user interest or a future commercial product.
Shareware / Trial ware
Software created by a developer or small company.
They retain all copyright on the product.
Software may be freely distributed by any and all means or may have restrictions on distribution.
Unable to change, create or modify without express permission from the author/s.
You may use the software for a specified period of time.
You may have all or limited functionality of the product during the "trial period"
You may not use the software for commercial gain.
Option to pay a small fee to continue using the software after the trial period has expired.
Shareware types - Larger games, utilities, widgets, some Anti-spy ware or Anti-Virus product software that is usually a pre-cursor to the developer testing user interest or a future commercial product.
Commercial Software
Software created by a developer, company or corporation.
They retain all copyright on the product.
Software must be purchased usually through a retailer or third party provider.
Unable to change, create or modify doing so they incur liability from the copyright holders.
You may use the software for an indefinite or specified period of time.
You have all functionality of the product.
You may not use the software for commercial gain nor may you distribute the program.
Usually, restricted to operating the software for 1 user only (on 1 PC).
Commercial Software types - Commercial games, Major utilities, Anti-spy ware or Anti-Virus product software, Video and Photo Editing Software, CAD and image software, Music Software, Office Suites.
Almost all types of software, especially, freeware, trial ware, shareware and commercial products outline in the EULA (an End User Licence Agreement) what legal rights, statutory rights and explicit rights you may or may not have with using the software.
This is a legal and binding agreement between you and the software issuer. Most people don't realise that when you walk into a retail store and buy software, you are not buying the CD or DVD or manual, or the box it is all provided in. But you are purchasing the 'right' to legally use the software as outlined in the licence agreement.
In other words, if you buy software that has in it's agreement, 'You may use this product on 1 (one) computer only at one time'. Don't give the disc to a family member or friend to put on their computer if you continue to use it on yours.
I am not trying to scare you or explain your legal rights, copyright and software licencing is a complex and difficult subject to understand for the general layman. I am only providing a general understanding of this complex issue. Please always consult someone in the legal profession for further information on your rights with using computer software.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Some commonly used Keyboard Shortcuts
Here are some useful keyboard short cuts that can help you use your computer a little more quickly and can save using or in conjunction with the mouse on most occasions.
These shortcuts can be used in the following series of Microsoft Windows; Windows 95, Windows 98 (standard and 2nd Edition), Windows Millennium, Windows XP (Starter, Home, Professional, Tablet Editions), Windows Vista (Starter, Home Basic, Home Premium, Ultimate, Enterprise, Business Editions), Windows Server 2000, Server 2003 (All Editions), Server 2008 (All Editions)
F1 = Open Help (usually from within the program your using will open help, if you want Windows Help, minimise all programs back to the desktop)
CTRL + ESC - Open START menu
ALT + TAB - Switch between different open programs you are currently using.
ALT + F4 - Quit and close the current open program
These ones next are commonly used in Internet browsers, office applications, text programs and the like.
CTRL + C - Copy currently highlighted text
CTRL + V - Cut out currently highlighted text
CTRL + P - Paste into this spot, one previous cut or copied highlighted text
CTRL + B - Bold highlighted text
CTRL + I - Italise highlighted text
CTRL + U - Underline highlighted text
Some more using the Windows Logo key (The one that looks like a floating flag in-between the CTRL & ALT Keys)
Windows Logo - Open START Menu
Windows Logo + R - Open the RUN dialog box
Windows Logo + M - minimise all open window
Windows Logo + E - Open My Computer
Windows Logo + F - Open the SEARCH dialog box
Another useful shortcut
CTRL + ALT + DEL - Start the Task Manager dialog box
There are many more shortcuts available, but these above are the most often used,
These shortcuts can be used in the following series of Microsoft Windows; Windows 95, Windows 98 (standard and 2nd Edition), Windows Millennium, Windows XP (Starter, Home, Professional, Tablet Editions), Windows Vista (Starter, Home Basic, Home Premium, Ultimate, Enterprise, Business Editions), Windows Server 2000, Server 2003 (All Editions), Server 2008 (All Editions)
F1 = Open Help (usually from within the program your using will open help, if you want Windows Help, minimise all programs back to the desktop)
CTRL + ESC - Open START menu
ALT + TAB - Switch between different open programs you are currently using.
ALT + F4 - Quit and close the current open program
These ones next are commonly used in Internet browsers, office applications, text programs and the like.
CTRL + C - Copy currently highlighted text
CTRL + V - Cut out currently highlighted text
CTRL + P - Paste into this spot, one previous cut or copied highlighted text
CTRL + B - Bold highlighted text
CTRL + I - Italise highlighted text
CTRL + U - Underline highlighted text
Some more using the Windows Logo key (The one that looks like a floating flag in-between the CTRL & ALT Keys)
Windows Logo - Open START Menu
Windows Logo + R - Open the RUN dialog box
Windows Logo + M - minimise all open window
Windows Logo + E - Open My Computer
Windows Logo + F - Open the SEARCH dialog box
Another useful shortcut
CTRL + ALT + DEL - Start the Task Manager dialog box
There are many more shortcuts available, but these above are the most often used,
Quick Tips On Protecting Your Computer
Unfortunately, you have to protect your against internet threats or you will end up with a computer that will run slower, some programs will stop working and sooner or later, strange behavior will wreak havoc which has the potential to remove information.
A quick point on why this happens. As most people like to provide beneficial forms of software to help, enhance or generally provide a good experience with using computers, there are some who do the opposite. They like to create havoc, cause malicious damage and are akin to graffiti artists spraying paint on public buildings.
Two key points here -
Clearing your cache of your most used internet browser is another good idea.
Also delete Windows Temporary files.
Right, what do I do if I have some nasty (like a trojan or a virus) appears on your computer ?
First, turn off your modem and disconnect from the internet. Most nasties will 'call out" to the internet and basically say, 'hey I found a computer thats not well protected, come over and download more garbage on this person computers'.
Also re-run your preventative steps as outlined above. If you find after all this that there is still a virus, trojan or malware or other nasties still lurking on your computer, let me stress this, DO NOT continue on your own and do not continue using your computer.
I have seen too many people tell me they tried to fix thier own computer and unded up with nearly deleting all their personal information, things like, photos, music, videos, emails, letters, even business files.
If you cannot get rid of it on your own, don't try and go any further, seek the help of a computer professional. Yes it will cost you maybe $100, but it will cost you much much more if your valuable and important data is accidently erased.
Turn of your computer, disconnect form the internet and talk with family or friends who may have used professional computer services. Or alternatively, look in the yellow pages.
A quick point on why this happens. As most people like to provide beneficial forms of software to help, enhance or generally provide a good experience with using computers, there are some who do the opposite. They like to create havoc, cause malicious damage and are akin to graffiti artists spraying paint on public buildings.
Two key points here -
- Preventative maintenance can avert alot of future headache and drama
- Taking logical and pro-active steps when a nasty on the computer does occur
Clearing your cache of your most used internet browser is another good idea.
Also delete Windows Temporary files.
Right, what do I do if I have some nasty (like a trojan or a virus) appears on your computer ?
First, turn off your modem and disconnect from the internet. Most nasties will 'call out" to the internet and basically say, 'hey I found a computer thats not well protected, come over and download more garbage on this person computers'.
Also re-run your preventative steps as outlined above. If you find after all this that there is still a virus, trojan or malware or other nasties still lurking on your computer, let me stress this, DO NOT continue on your own and do not continue using your computer.
I have seen too many people tell me they tried to fix thier own computer and unded up with nearly deleting all their personal information, things like, photos, music, videos, emails, letters, even business files.
If you cannot get rid of it on your own, don't try and go any further, seek the help of a computer professional. Yes it will cost you maybe $100, but it will cost you much much more if your valuable and important data is accidently erased.
Turn of your computer, disconnect form the internet and talk with family or friends who may have used professional computer services. Or alternatively, look in the yellow pages.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Are All Internet Browsers The Same ?
Just have a look at the Internet Browser your using at the moment. If your a Windows user, it's most likely either Firefox from Mozilla or Internet Explorer 7.0 from Microsoft. These are the two most commonly used browsers.
Hang on, your asking, what IS an internet browser ? Its this; A graphical tool designed to read HTML documents and access the WWW. Ok in a little more detail, this means its the front end of viewing HTML documents (Hyper-text markup language) and an access port for the WWW (world wide web). Still lost ?
In plain English, its a program that allows you to read, view, find and/or interact with web pages containing text, images (like digital photos), sound, music and video. This is the most common way of interacting on the World Wide Web (its like the worlds largest encyclopedia).
This very Blog your reading is a web page.
Is there much difference between the differing browsers ? No, not really, much like you have Mitsubishi and Ford, different companies, but they still both manufacture cars.
Which one you decide to use will come down to personal preference. I myself prefer to use Firefox because for me, it's fast, I can turn on or off features I want to use and I find it easier in its use than some other browsers.
Here is a list to some of the popular browsers used today and a handy link should you choose to download one and try it out yourself.
Microsoft - Internet Explorer 7
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/downloads/ie/getitnow.mspx
Mozilla - Firefox 3
http://www.mozilla.com/en-US/firefox/?utm_id=Q108&utm_source=google&utm_medium=ppc&gclid=CMqAj9j_1ZQCFRwsagodihGBkw
Opera
http://www.opera.com
Avant Browser
http://www.avantbrowser.com/download.html
Maxthon Browser
http://www.maxthon.com/download.htm
Enjoy !
Hang on, your asking, what IS an internet browser ? Its this; A graphical tool designed to read HTML documents and access the WWW. Ok in a little more detail, this means its the front end of viewing HTML documents (Hyper-text markup language) and an access port for the WWW (world wide web). Still lost ?
In plain English, its a program that allows you to read, view, find and/or interact with web pages containing text, images (like digital photos), sound, music and video. This is the most common way of interacting on the World Wide Web (its like the worlds largest encyclopedia).
This very Blog your reading is a web page.
Is there much difference between the differing browsers ? No, not really, much like you have Mitsubishi and Ford, different companies, but they still both manufacture cars.
Which one you decide to use will come down to personal preference. I myself prefer to use Firefox because for me, it's fast, I can turn on or off features I want to use and I find it easier in its use than some other browsers.
Here is a list to some of the popular browsers used today and a handy link should you choose to download one and try it out yourself.
Microsoft - Internet Explorer 7
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/downloads/ie/getitnow.mspx
Mozilla - Firefox 3
http://www.mozilla.com/en-US/firefox/?utm_id=Q108&utm_source=google&utm_medium=ppc&gclid=CMqAj9j_1ZQCFRwsagodihGBkw
Opera
http://www.opera.com
Avant Browser
http://www.avantbrowser.com/download.html
Maxthon Browser
http://www.maxthon.com/download.htm
Enjoy !
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Quick Tips On Purchasing A New Computer
Buying a new computer for the household can be a daunting experience, but it does not have to be.
Before walking into your first retail store, decide what you mainly want to use the computer for. Don't try and think of everything you want to do with it, just 3 main obejectives is fine. Heres and exmaple:
Ok, three very valid and useful things to do on a computer. But how do I choose the computer that is right for me ?
IN my experience with helping someone buy a computer, as far as they are concerned, they do not particularly care whats inside the computer, so long as it can do WHATS described to them, the computer can do the things you want it to. It like buying a car for someone, your not going to help Grandma buy a V8 petrol guzzler for a new car, when a small compact 4 cylinder is more compatible.
Three main concerns dictate purchasing a computer
Price
How much should you pay ? There are two important considerations here, both how much to pay AND how you pay.
About $500 will buy you the bare minimum computer available, although you may think cheap is good, be very careful as you may find that you may pay more over the next 12 months as you find apart form getting connected to the internet, that when you start adding digital cameras, printers, more software, the price now over a very short period of time in some cases IS MORE than what you will have paid, had you bought a "package deal"
About $3000, this is the bees knees, this computer will handle anything you throw at it apart from brewing you a morning coffee and collecting the newspaper. This price range is usually where the '20 somethings' purchase a computer to play the latest and greatest games, burn movies, watch TV, and store massive amounts of information, and usually one does not have to consider upgrading to new shiny toys for 3 - 4 years. This price point is too high out of budget for most households.
Around the $1500 mark is about the sweet spot for most families. Depending on where you buy this gives you a very decent purchase and usually with some extras (like a bundled digital camera or Multi-function printer from the larger Retail stores)
Now I also mentioned, 'how to pay' earlier. Yes, also another item when buying a computer which is often overlooked. Consider these options when making a purchase
Cash - Instant purchase, you get to take home your purchase straight away, yet you have spent the amount usually from hard - earned savings. Some stores will also discount when purchasing with cash. You also have the benefit of owning the equipment outright.
My rating 5 out of 5
Charge - Payement via Credit Card or Loan facility, your you get to take home your purchase straight away and will make minimum monthly payments to 'pay off' your purchase. As this is an item that is technically owned by you, but you are making payments over a period of time with interest that after x number of years, will be more than the original purchase price.
My rating 2 out of 5
Finance - Payment through in-store finance, and they charge anything from 8% to 25% plus monthly fees, plus a setup account fee, this is similar to paying via credit card, and is made avilaible inside a retail store through a third party finance company. Each monthly payment is also for a fixed amount over a fixed period of time. You will most often see these advertised with the larger retail stores who also offer the carrot of an interest free period. Your classic, buy now, pay later offer.
My rating 1 out of 5
Rent / Lease - Usually offered to business' and sometimes individual if its appropriate for your situation. The benefit can be an opportunity to exchange to new equipment after a set lease period (usually 3 years) and some tax benefits (to business', not individuals)
My rating 3 out of 5
Features
What features do you want, especially if you don't know what the heck comes with a computer in the first place ? The best way to know what features a computer has is to ask someone who knows a little about computers. Apart form that here is a short list of common features (and by no means complete)
Software based features -
A common question is 'where do I buy' ? This will always come down to your specific preferences for shopping but here are some examples with the benefits and shortcomings
Before walking into your first retail store, decide what you mainly want to use the computer for. Don't try and think of everything you want to do with it, just 3 main obejectives is fine. Heres and exmaple:
- I want to get connected on the internet and communicate with my family and friends
- I want to be able to store digital photos on my computer
- I want my kids to be able to their homework now that they use computers in school
Ok, three very valid and useful things to do on a computer. But how do I choose the computer that is right for me ?
IN my experience with helping someone buy a computer, as far as they are concerned, they do not particularly care whats inside the computer, so long as it can do WHATS described to them, the computer can do the things you want it to. It like buying a car for someone, your not going to help Grandma buy a V8 petrol guzzler for a new car, when a small compact 4 cylinder is more compatible.
Three main concerns dictate purchasing a computer
- Price
- Features (Both internal hardware and pre-installed software)
- Where to buy
Price
How much should you pay ? There are two important considerations here, both how much to pay AND how you pay.
About $500 will buy you the bare minimum computer available, although you may think cheap is good, be very careful as you may find that you may pay more over the next 12 months as you find apart form getting connected to the internet, that when you start adding digital cameras, printers, more software, the price now over a very short period of time in some cases IS MORE than what you will have paid, had you bought a "package deal"
About $3000, this is the bees knees, this computer will handle anything you throw at it apart from brewing you a morning coffee and collecting the newspaper. This price range is usually where the '20 somethings' purchase a computer to play the latest and greatest games, burn movies, watch TV, and store massive amounts of information, and usually one does not have to consider upgrading to new shiny toys for 3 - 4 years. This price point is too high out of budget for most households.
Around the $1500 mark is about the sweet spot for most families. Depending on where you buy this gives you a very decent purchase and usually with some extras (like a bundled digital camera or Multi-function printer from the larger Retail stores)
Now I also mentioned, 'how to pay' earlier. Yes, also another item when buying a computer which is often overlooked. Consider these options when making a purchase
Cash - Instant purchase, you get to take home your purchase straight away, yet you have spent the amount usually from hard - earned savings. Some stores will also discount when purchasing with cash. You also have the benefit of owning the equipment outright.
My rating 5 out of 5
Charge - Payement via Credit Card or Loan facility, your you get to take home your purchase straight away and will make minimum monthly payments to 'pay off' your purchase. As this is an item that is technically owned by you, but you are making payments over a period of time with interest that after x number of years, will be more than the original purchase price.
My rating 2 out of 5
Finance - Payment through in-store finance, and they charge anything from 8% to 25% plus monthly fees, plus a setup account fee, this is similar to paying via credit card, and is made avilaible inside a retail store through a third party finance company. Each monthly payment is also for a fixed amount over a fixed period of time. You will most often see these advertised with the larger retail stores who also offer the carrot of an interest free period. Your classic, buy now, pay later offer.
My rating 1 out of 5
Rent / Lease - Usually offered to business' and sometimes individual if its appropriate for your situation. The benefit can be an opportunity to exchange to new equipment after a set lease period (usually 3 years) and some tax benefits (to business', not individuals)
My rating 3 out of 5
Features
What features do you want, especially if you don't know what the heck comes with a computer in the first place ? The best way to know what features a computer has is to ask someone who knows a little about computers. Apart form that here is a short list of common features (and by no means complete)
Software based features -
- An Operating system, like Windows XP or Windows Vista, comes with some basic software functions and is the 'go between' for communicating your software and hardware in to a format usable by a computer user.
- An email program - to send and receive, text, pictures or short movies through software, an 'Electronic Mail centre"
- A Video player - for playing movies
- A Sound player - for playing sounds and music
- A Web Browser - an interface for 'viewing' pages over the internet that contain, text, sound, music, video or interactive features
- An Office Suite - software that allows you to write letters, create household budgets, create picture slide shows and with a raft of many more powerful features
- A basic Photo viewer and editor
- Other additional software can be purchased that allow for specific tasks or addtional features / functions
- A keyboard and mouse - interface devices that control almost everything you do with a computer
- A computer tower / desktop - the big box that has all the hardware 'bits'
- A CRT monitor or LCD screen for viewing the computer interface
- Speakers - for hearinfg sound / music
- Printer - for printing out on paper, text or images
- Scanner - for electronic storing permamnent copies of text, or pictures or a combination of
- Web camera - video conferencing with others over the internet face to face - in real time communication
- Other additional hardware can be purchased that allow for specific tasks or addtional features / functions
A common question is 'where do I buy' ? This will always come down to your specific preferences for shopping but here are some examples with the benefits and shortcomings
- The 'bricks and mortar' retail chains - Like Dick Smith or Harvey Norman (Stores located in Australia). The large retail chains offer all the payment options as I outlined earlier and are a convenient one stop-shop. Usually offer a 'package deal' buy a computer with screen, speakers, a multi-function printer, a digital camera and additional software and extended warranty for the one price for the entire package. Any of these items also may be purchased individually.
- A dedicated computer store - similar to retail chains but specifically dedicated to all things computer related, usually but not always focused on 'package deals'. Staff are usually for technical savvy and prices are generally more competitve
- Local papers, Classified ads in regianl or national papers, either computer resellers or an outlet for chains with excess stock, slightly better preices than retail but all transactions are usually catered over the phone or internet, no face to face.
- The internet such as sites like EBAY or Dell Direct, you may be dealing with someone who owns a retail store or an individual with places like EBAY so if you are unsure, have someone you trust to assist you with your purchase
- Word of mouth !!!! (Second hand goods) someone you know or a friend who knows someone may be selling second hand equipement and sometimes a gem can be found if you know what to look for.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Welcome to Help Me On The Computer
Hi,
My name is Jason and welcome to the first post on the blog.
The basis for this blog is this. I am a Computer technician and have over 4 years experience with over 1000+ face to face client visits ranging from hardware and software issue resolution & installations through to Virus/Trojan removal to training a person on using their computer for all sorts of reasons.
The main gripe I have with the industry for me is I like to show people how to use a computer, but with travel, bookings, limited time (usually 1 hour sessions) and varying degrees of user experience, I am only able to help ONE PERSON AT ONE TIME.
Very frustrating !!!!!
So, I created this blog to reach as many people as I can, rather than just a one on one basis. More so, you get my experience FOR FREE !!! Neat huh ?
So, whats the main aim for this blog ? It will be this, to help YOU, the NEW computer user. Yes there are probably many other countless blogs and websites that already fill this purpose. I have had a look at a few myself and I don't know, I cannot currently put my finger on it, but I felt they lacked something, like a personal touch or were very technical and would be difficult for a new computer user to understand.
Yes I see some people saying , "Hey, I don't know how to use my computer so how can you help me and how will I know where to find this blog anyway?". A very valid question that I will answer with this, just about everyone who has a computer knows a family member or friend who knows more about the computer and are most likely Internet savvy. So they may come across this blog and email you the site, so you get to read some gems then !!!!
The main agenda will be:
Also, I will be providing more details on some related items like those important factors that are not usually discussed or thought about when purchasing:
I suggest to come back often as I will be also providing basic training, helpful hints, tutorials, anecdotes and stories (usually with a helpful hint or two) as a Computer Tech, links to other useful or interesting sites, reviews and down the track I may answer questions that you, the reader, may pose.
Thankyou for taking the time to read and I hope you enjoy the site !
My name is Jason and welcome to the first post on the blog.
The basis for this blog is this. I am a Computer technician and have over 4 years experience with over 1000+ face to face client visits ranging from hardware and software issue resolution & installations through to Virus/Trojan removal to training a person on using their computer for all sorts of reasons.
The main gripe I have with the industry for me is I like to show people how to use a computer, but with travel, bookings, limited time (usually 1 hour sessions) and varying degrees of user experience, I am only able to help ONE PERSON AT ONE TIME.
Very frustrating !!!!!
So, I created this blog to reach as many people as I can, rather than just a one on one basis. More so, you get my experience FOR FREE !!! Neat huh ?
So, whats the main aim for this blog ? It will be this, to help YOU, the NEW computer user. Yes there are probably many other countless blogs and websites that already fill this purpose. I have had a look at a few myself and I don't know, I cannot currently put my finger on it, but I felt they lacked something, like a personal touch or were very technical and would be difficult for a new computer user to understand.
Yes I see some people saying , "Hey, I don't know how to use my computer so how can you help me and how will I know where to find this blog anyway?". A very valid question that I will answer with this, just about everyone who has a computer knows a family member or friend who knows more about the computer and are most likely Internet savvy. So they may come across this blog and email you the site, so you get to read some gems then !!!!
The main agenda will be:
- How do I decide on what computer to buy ?
- Suggestions on how to make that important purchase - Buying a new computer
- What software will you need ?
- What hardware will you need (Like cameras, printers, scanners, etc)
- How do I get connected to the Internet
- What do I do when my computer stops working properly
- Maintaining your computer health
- Computer and Internet security
Also, I will be providing more details on some related items like those important factors that are not usually discussed or thought about when purchasing:
- After sales service
- Warranties
- Computer Technician services
- Repeat purchases (For example , Ok I have bought a computer, now I need a printer)
I suggest to come back often as I will be also providing basic training, helpful hints, tutorials, anecdotes and stories (usually with a helpful hint or two) as a Computer Tech, links to other useful or interesting sites, reviews and down the track I may answer questions that you, the reader, may pose.
Thankyou for taking the time to read and I hope you enjoy the site !
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