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Toward a Better Computing Experience |
Smart Computing magazine |
Dropped connections, sluggish speed, limited connectivity, and “missing” networks often can be resolved simply by rebooting the wireless router first and then rebooting the affected PC. Start by unplugging the router for 30 seconds and reconnecting it. Often, a router reboot will reset the IP address and the signal so that the devices can pick them up again. If that doesn’t work, reboot the affected PC. Troubleshoot Options In Windows 7 One of the coolest additions to Window 7 is an extensive Troubleshooting center. But there is more here than might meet the eye. You can open the console by typing troubleshooting in the Start Search box and pressing ENTER. The first time you start this tool, you may be asked if you want to update the troubleshooting tools available. If you agree, Troubleshooting reaches out to Microsoft for an updated list of programs. Now, click View All in the task pane. The list of problem-specific tools now includes both those installed on your system ( tagged as “Local” in the third column) or available from Microsoft’s online library. Mousing over any of these choices pops up a thumbnail description of what they diagnose. If you click one of the online items, the tool will be downloaded and executed.
A surge protector looks similar to a power strip and has multiple outlets to plug in your computer, monitor, and other peripherals such as a printer or fax machine. But more importantly, it also protects your computer and peripherals from power surges, which are sudden peaks in the electrical current flowing into your home. Power surges can be caused by downed power lines, faulty wiring, or regular electrical maintenance in your neighborhood. Fluctuations in the electrical current being delivered to your PC and its components can cause permanent damage to hardware, such as the motherboard, processor, or hard drive, causing a loss of irreplaceable files. Over time, power surges can shorten the life span of your computer equipment, but a surge protector will absorb any increase in electrical current and shield your system from potential harm.
In Windows 7, you’ll find Sticky Notes, a revamped version of the old Notes gadget now built into the operating system. (Open the Start menu, click All Programs, and select Accessories to find Sticky Notes.) Sticky Notes lets you place virtual Post-Its anywhere on your Desktop. You can also stack notes. Right-clicking a note brings up a menu that will let you pick from any of six note colors. There’s seemingly no way to change the font or format a note, but this is less of a concern than the fact that there’s no “always on top” option for notes so you can’t bury them out of sight. Still, Sticky Notes can definitely help with productivity and are less likely to get swept up by housekeeping than their paper counterparts. A Handy Keyboard Shortcut For many computer users, multitasking is a must. Between that Web browser, word processing document, and photo-editing program, your screen can fill up pretty quickly. Sometimes you need to clear the clutter and get straight to the Windows Desktop. To quickly minimize all open windows on-screen, press WIN (the Windows Logo key)-D. Press the combination again to bring the windows back up.
Reprinted with permission from Smart Computing. Visit www.smartcomputing.com to learn what Smart Computing can do for you and your user group!