PC Tips and Computer Information

Memory

Random Access Memory - 1) You can get the fastest processor out on the market, but you don't have anything until you load it up with RAM. We recommend at least 2gig (3 gig or more is better). Before buying the latest PC, consider upgrading your memory first. You will be surprised. See our electronics dictionary for information on purchasing memory. 2) Bad RAM can cause many problems with your pc. Some symptoms include - blue screens, programs crashing, and shutdown of your computer for no apparent reason. Memory can be bad from the moment you purchase it. There is a free program called Memtest86 that can help you troubleshoot memory problems. Real easy to use. Must be on a bootable floppy or cd.

ReadyBoost - A Windows Vista application that provides an easy way to speed up a computer by adding additional memory capacity by using a readyboost compatible USB drive. Be sure to correctly size the USB flash drive to the system memory. Microsoft recommends between 1 to 1 and 2.5 to 1 ratio. For example, if a computer has 1 gigabyte of memory the USB drive capacity should be between 1 to 2.5 gigabytes.

Keeping it clean - Keep as few as possible icons (shortcuts) on your desktop. Those little icons rob your RAM of 500bytes each. These can quickly add up and slow your PC down. Click here for 10 tips to speed up your PC.

Carry out the trash - empty the recycle bin, internet history, cache, and cookies frequently.

Static Electricity

Do not touch the hard drive (case) or monitor after walking on carpet. Good way to tear up something electronic. Try to touch something metal before putting your hands on them. Static electricity can cause catastrophic damage to a computer. If you are doing upgrade/repair work yourself, invest in a anti static wrist strap/pad. Inexpensive and well worth it. Do not use a brush or cloth to clean circuit boards. They can cause static electricity. Use a can of compressed air to clean these sensitive components. See our article below for more information on how to properly clean a pc.

PC Problems

If you here "funny noises" coming from your PC, stop immediately. If you don't know a thing about them, call some one. It is not uncommon for fans to go out. They are inexpensive to replace, but can trash the whole system. Here is an article about strange computer noises. Always insist on high quality ball bearing fans. Do not go with the cheap ones. Good quality fans will not cost more than $10. Here is info on how to properly clean your pc.

CD Stuck - Ever wonder what that little bitty tiny hole on cd and disk drives was for? Stick a straightened paperclip in that hole to eject stuck cd/disks. Special note - How you format can cause the cd not to eject.

Read this for really stubborn inkjet cartridge clogs.

General Tips

Get a good video card. We recommend NVIDIA with at least 128mg of built in memory. On board video (graphics card built into the motherboard) can cause lag. Onboard video cards use valuable PC resources. Put in a good video card, bypass the onboard video and notice the difference. Extremely good choice for upgrading your computer with minimal investment. Here is our article on how to replace a computer expansion card.

We do not recommend buying extended warranties with a new computer. Why? Most of the time, if new electronic components fail, they do so fairly quickly. Leave your new PC on for two weeks without turning it off to give it a good trial/break-in period.

A cool browser zoom tip - If you are running Windows Internet Explorer, hold the Ctrl key while moving your mouse wheel (if you have one). You can instantly zoom in or out!

Here is two computer tips and tricks that we thought were rather cool.

Learn about 10 keyboard shortcuts here.

Keeping your registry clean will keep your computer running at peak speeds. Click here for more information about cleaning your registry.

Building your own pc is cost effective and a very rewarding experience. Click here to read more need to know information before building your custom computer.

If you want to understand basic computer terminology, click here for definitions of computer components.

PC Safety

Get a good monitor - Set the refresh rate high (above 80). Cheap monitors or improper settings can damage your vision. Maintain a comfortable viewing distance (25 to 30 inches). Adjust the monitor so you can work with your head level. Take appropriate steps to reduce glare on screen (ambient light sources).

Lower the brightness - Keep the brightness level as low as what is comfortable for you. Set the contrast as high as what you feel is comfortable.

Blink while looking at the monitor - PC's tend to cause eyes to blink less, which causes dryness of the eyes. Force yourself to blink more often.

Ergonomics - This is becoming more of a danger with more people spending more time at computers. Repetitive motion can cause carpel tunnel syndrome (swelling around nerves). Buy ergonomic keyboards (padded wrist rest are intended for resting NOT WHILE KEYING), get a good chair, and take breaks (stretch or walk around  1-2 minutes every hour). Keep your shoulders and upper arms perpendicular to the floor and relaxed.

Give your eyes a break - Refocus your eyes on something in the distance from time to time.

Give your body a break - Change your body position about every 20 minutes or so.

No food or drinks -Go to the table if you want to eat or drink. Have you no manners? And say your prayers while your are there. Thank God Almighty for all of your blessings! God and your PC will love you for it.

Clean the monitor screen - Keep the screen clean with a soft dry static free cloth. Do not use cleaners. A dirty screen causes more stress on the eyes.

Working on monitors - Although they can usually be repaired quit easily, DO NOT ATTEMPT to work on them unless you have the experience to do so. Why? Electric components inside them store electricity, EVEN unplugged.

Disclaimer - We do not and will not accept any type of responsibility for any tips, information or recommendations given on this website.