 |
|
|
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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.
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.
You can get by without a memory card if your digicam provides onboard memory, and most do. Internal memory, however, is meant to supplement a memory card. Thus, most cameras only provide enough to hold 15 or so images. Although you can save money not buying a card, you'll spend considerable time transferring or deleting photos from internal memory to make room for new ones.
Reprinted with permission from Smart Computing. Visit www.smartcomputing.com to learn what Smart Computing can do for you and your user group!