Computer Repair Indiana

In part two of of my PC Backup Solutions blog, we're going to look at seven specific ways to backup our valuable data. As mentioned in my previous blog, in PC Repair Indiana computers will inevitably fail. Not to mention natural hazards, such as floods, ice and lighting storms. And, given our increasing reliance on these machines in our day to day lives, data backup is essential. (If you haven't read my first blog on the subject, I'd definitely take a minute to scan that one to find out the importance of backing up)

So, now let's get into the knitty-gritty of actual ways to back up your personal information. We'll take a look at some of the various backup methods, their strengths, their weaknesses, and the associated costs. In particular we'll look at 7 backup methods that are most relevant to a home PC user.

1. CD Backup
Burning important files to CD-R's is a cheap and easy way of backing up your important documents. CD-R's are incredibly cheap costing only maybe $12 for a 50 pack, readily available, and usable on nearly any machine made in the last 6 years. They are however prone to scratching, not rewritable meaning that you can't update the files, and relatively low capacity. While light years ahead of a floppy, they won't store more than say, 150 photos or songs. They're great for burning a single important album or backing up a couple years of tax info.

2. DVD Backup
Burning important files to DVD's is an affordable and easy way of backing up important files and documents. DVD-R's are only a little pricier than CD's at maybe $15 for a 50 pack, easy to find, and store six and a half times as much information as a CD-R. There are even more expensive dual-layer discs that store 9 Gigs of information! Like CD's though, they are prone to scratching and will get torn up if mistreated.

3. USB Flash Drive
Keeping backup copies of important files on a flash drive is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to help ensure your data is protected. A 4 GB flash drive, which would be enough for say, 900 photos or 1000 songs, can be purchased at many stores for as cheap as $11-12. An even larger drive, such as 8 GB runs only $16-18, and you can buy even larger drives if storage becomes an issue. Using one, couldn't be easier. You just open two windows, select the files or folders you want, and drag them onto the flash drive. USB drives are fairly resistant to most damage if treated with any amount of care, though personal experience has shown, it's best not to run them through the wash in your pocket.

4. USB Portable Hard Drive
Sometimes you just have too many photos, or too much music, to make backing up on DVD's or a flash drive feasible. Enter the USB Portable Hard Drive. These small, pocketable hard drives can carry enough storage to backup most laptops, and most small to midsize desktops. They don't require any special plugs or adapters, just a single USB port for data and power. Like the flash drive you can simply drag and drop your data on to the new drive. Some even come with software tools to make backing up even easier. Portable hard drives are pretty rugged, but much like a laptop excessive shaking and harsh drops should be avoided.

5. USB Desktop Hard Drive
This is the biggest and best of the add-on type of discs/drives. These are larger drives, both physically and in regards to storeage amount. Many drives even have higher speed connection types, such as firewire or e-sata, to make backups and file transfers incredibly fast. There is enough storage on most of these drives for 10,000+ photos or songs, and to back up nearly any desktop or laptop. Most large drives include backup software as a standard feature. The drawback with these drives though, is that they require a separate plug for power and are a little bulky to carry around.

6. RAID Array Backup
When purchasing a new PC, there is one option that is especially great for data backup and reliability. A RAID setup can have many forms, the one we're ideally concerned with is what we call RAID 5. Avoiding the technical end of things, this allows your computer to run faster, and keeps copies of your data on multiple drives, so that even if one drive fails, a new one may be substituted in its place. The computer reconstructs the data, and it's like it never happened. Raid is not terribly expensive to setup, however it needs compatible hardware and must be done at the time the machine is made, which are a couple of the system's only drawbacks.

7. Offsite Remote Backup
This backup solution is the ultimate in protection and security for your data. It is a powerful way to keep your data safe in even the most severe of circumstances. It's also what we normally recommend for our IT Support for Small Business customers. Since your data is backed up to a remote location, your files are kept safe even in the event of catastrophe like a fire or flood. While it is a little more expensive than some of the other options, it is the most reliable and easy way to ensure your valuable data is kept safe. We provide this service for many of our business customers, and so called "cloud" backups are available for home users as well.

So hopefully you've learned not just why we need backups in today's society, but also about some of the various ways we can backup our important data, files, and memories. If you have any questions, or would like us to help you implement a backup strategy of your own, please don't hesitate to call us. As always, we're here for all your Computer Repair Mooresville needs.

If you liked this Blog Post, then check out The Interconnect Group other Blog Posts:

1. Backups!:  Why Backups Are Crucial in Today's Electrical World (Part I)
2. Computer Basics:  Better Understanding Your Computer
3. Has Your IT Rack Gotten Out Of Hand
4. Wireless 3G Networks...Which one do you choose?
5. Get Empowered with Oracle Software Products
6. Benefits of Volume Licensing
7. 10 Handy and Free Software Programs
8. Free Microsoft Antivirus Software
9. 3 Great Ways to Help Speed Up Your Computer

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."  -Benjamin Franklin

We've all heard this saying before. It addresses the fact that sometimes a little effort up front can save you from a world of trouble in the long run. I want to share with you about just such a situation. Today I'd like to compare this timeless quote to the world of PC Backup Solutions. While it may seem a little far-fetched at first glance, the comparison is quite valid. So why do I bring this topic up? Because if there is one thing I have learned in Computer Help Desk Support, it's that you should plan for the worst, even if you hope for the best.

 Modern computers are incredibly complex. While a computer is meant to be as fault tolerant as possible, things can and will happen. Think about how we use our computers today. Banking, news, email, music libraries, taxes, homework, facebook, financing, photo storage, business correspondence,  the list goes on and on. The problem is, if your computer fails you can lose everything. This is why in today's technologically dependent world, corporations aren't the only ones who need to think about backup solutions.

Reliable data backup can be a lifesaver, not to mention a sound investment. I once lost $600 worth of wedding photos, due to a hard drive crash. No red flags, no warnings. The data was just gone. Priceless memories, and part of my reputation as a freelancer lost because of a simple mechanical failure. Tax documents and massive music collections are just as vulnerable. Given the importance of such documents, even at home backups are a must. It's a lesson several of our Indianapolis IT Support customers have learned the hard way.

Let's put this in context of our quote. Our ounce of prevention is like our Backup strategy, being quite easy and rather affordable on the Indiana PC Repair customer. Solutions for a home PC can range from a USB Drive purchased for a few dollars use to back up key documents, to a robust and safe offsite backup available for a reasonable monthly fee. If we neglect these options however the results can be devastating. The loss of precious memories, the thousand dollar charges of advanced data recovery services, even potential financial or legal trouble. While some products like music may be purchased again, some documents are irreplacable and should be treated as such.

Clearly, we really are better off safe, rather than sorry.

In part two, which will be posted later this week, we'll look at the specific options and pricing we have available to help protect you and your valuable data. That's all for today. If you have any concerns about your computer's health, or feel it might be time for a tune up, please visit us for all your Computer Repair Mooresville needs.

If you liked this Blog Post, then check out The Interconnect Group other Blog Posts:

1. Computer Basics:  Better Understanding Your Computer
2. Has Your IT Rack Gotten Out Of Hand
3. Wireless 3G Networks...Which one do you choose?
4. Get Empowered with Oracle Software Products
5. Benefits of Volume Licensing
6. 10 Handy and Free Software Programs
7. Free Microsoft Antivirus Software
8. 3 Great Ways to Help Speed Up Your Computer

Today I'd like to continue on to the second part of my blog on better understanding your computer. I thought we'd take a look at some of the other components that help make the computer an invaluable part of today's high tech society. So, today we're going to look at a Motherboard, a NIC, a Video Card, and finally a Optical Drive. In Computer Help Desk Support I routinely service a wide variety of machines. Having a familiarity with different types of hardware allows me to connect symptoms of a problem to the component that might be faulty. While knowing how the various parts of a computer work is essential to proper PC Repair, it also will benefit you in your everyday use of computers at home or work.


Motherboard


A motherboard (or logic board if you use a Mac) is an absolutely key part of your PC.  This is the largest circuit board in the computer, and connects all the crucial components of the machine together. It provides a way for data to move from various pieces of hardware and back, and contains some of the most basic instructions your PC needs to operate. It also determines what types of hardware can be used in the machine at all, based on the various slots and sockets. My motherboard at home for instance, is a gaming board and will let me use parts like Intel Processors, and multiple video cards. Which brings me to my next point...





Video Cards


A video card is another important component of your PC. The video card is responsible for turning your computer's instructions into visible images, videos, or text that you can understand. It also renders any games, and translates any DVDs you might want to watch. Video cards are quite varied in design and form. Some performance cards are hulking pieces of metal with fans and giant copper heat sinks, while many smaller ones are built into the processor, such as on Intel's new i3 and i5 chips.



NIC


A NIC, or Network Interface Controller, allows your computer to communicate over a network. There are many types of NICs including Ethernet cards, Wireless cards, and 56k Modems. Many are built into the motherboards already. All of these share the common goal of allowing your computer to speak to the outside world. They use various networking protocols (languages) such as TCP/IP, UDP, and IMAP to let view webpages, send emails, or watch videos online.




Optical Drives


An Optical Drive is the component on your machine responsible for reading, and many times writing CDs, DVDs, or even Blu-Ray discs. This allows you to watch movies, install software, or burn DVDs. Each optical drive has a small laser, that reads the data on a disc as it spins. This data is stored as microscopic valleys and peaks on the disc's reflective surface. There are many forms of discs; CDs, CD-Rs, CD+RWs, DVD+Rs, DVD-RWs. Most optical drives on the market today can use almost any of them.



So I hope you feel like you've learned a little today, and feel even more comfortable with your computer. You may find knowing a little about the way a computer works can increase the enjoyment you getA out of using one. If you have any questions, or are perhaps considering a PC Hardware upgrade, please stop by our Mooresville, Indiana PC Repair Facility and let us take great care of you and your machine.



If you liked this Blog Post, then check out The Interconnect Group other Blog Posts:

1. Has Your IT Rack Gotten Out Of Hand
2. Wireless 3G Networks...Which one do you choose?
3. Get Empowered with Oracle Software Products
4. Benefits of Volume Licensing
5. 10 Handy and Free Software Programs
6. Free Microsoft Antivirus Software
7. 3 Great Ways to Help Speed Up Your Computer

Hello Indiana PC Repair customers!

Today, I thought I'd kick off the first of a multiple-part blog post series. My goal is a simple, easy to understand guide that will help you better understand your computer and how they work. At our Mooresville Computer Support office, one issue we commonly run into is that people feel they just don't understand enough about computers. Hopefully this guide will inform you, and help you feel more comfortable around computer IT that has quickly become a large part of our lives.

First we're going to take a look at the main components of a PC. The big three, as I call them, form the core components of your machine. These three are your Processor, RAM, and Hard Drive. Let's take a look at what each of them does, and then we'll see how they work together.


Processor:


The processor, or CPU, of your computer is key. It's the brains of the whole operation, doing all the math and calculations you might require. It also distributes resources and can help send messages to different parts of your PC. Processors are capable of performing millions of tasks in a single second Physically speaking, a modern computer processor is a small silicon-based microprocessor with thousands of microscopic circuits and pathways crammed on to a single tiny chip.





RAM:


RAM, or Random Access Memory, is a core component of your PC. Computers use and manipulate all kinds of numbers and data, many times more things than a processor can keep track of at once. RAM allows the processor an easy, accesible, and nearby place to store pieces of information until it needs them again. This volatile memory (non-permanent) allows the computer to do many tasks in rapid succession, with little noticable slowdown. RAM looks like two small thin green sticks with a series of small black chips on the sides.



Hard Drive:


Hard Drives are the third primary component in a PC. Sure, we want our computer to perform calculations and accomplish tasks, but if we don't have any mp3's to listen to, or office applications to use, what fun would that be? The hard drive in your computer is a series of magnetic discs that store files and information permanently. You can always write over the data later, but until you do the information is kept indefinitely. A hard drive is a small black and silver box, that contains numerous metal discs to keep your data on.



Well, I hope that now you feel like you know a little more about your computer and how it works. As always, should you have any Computer Support, Virus Removal, or PC Repair questions, I hope you'll stop by our Mooresville facility and let us help keep your computer in top shape.

Hello Indiana PC Repair customers, and welcome to my first blog.

This week I was reminded that we can all use a little help sometimes, even computer help desk support technicians. We sold a customer a Lenovo ThinkCentre A70. This All-In-One is a great, space-saving machine perfect for everyday computing. They do come a little light on RAM out of the box for running Windows 7.  Since upgrading a PC’s RAM is both a practical and affordable performance improvement, it was an easy decision for the customer to decide on the memory upgrade. Upon trying to open the computer case, I encountered some difficulty. Being unable to find any Support articles online, I decided to document the RAM installation process from start to finish. You will need the proper RAM and a few simple tools to complete this job.

1. Unplug the machine. Be sure to ground yourself (removing any static electricity), by touching something that is metal and grounded, such as a pipe. This is a crucial step in PC Support and Repair, as it protects against accidental damage to your components.
   
   
2. Gently lay the computer on its face, screen side down.
   
   
   
   
3. Find the two case screws, each located in the lower corners of the case. Loosen these two screws. They are bracketed however, and do not come entirely out.
   
   
    
4. Next locate four small black rubber plugs. They should be arranged in a square, near the leg’s hinge. Using your fingernails or a paperclip, gently pull the plugs out of the case and set them aside.
   
   
   
   
5. Underneath each of the four plugs should be a screw. Remove these screws, and set them aside near the rubber plugs.
   
   
   
   
6. To remove the Leg assembly, rotate the bottom end of the leg up. The square black plastic piece should rotate with it, and can then be removed from the back of the computer. Set it aside for now.
   
   
   
   
7. With the leg stand gone, the back plate of the PC must now be removed. The case is held together by a series of small clips. Using a straight screwdriver, gently pry the case apart. Start near the corner screws on both sides, slowly working your way towards the middle. Eventually you should hear a series of ‘pop’ noises and the back of the case may be removed.
   
   
   
   
8. You should now be seeing something similar to this. Locate the RAM slot, it should on the left of the machine, towards the center.
   
   
   
   
9. If you have to remove the old RAM to install your new memory, this must be done first. This happens if you have two new sticks to go in, remove the old one by pushing down on its white tabs and pulling the RAM stick out.
   
   
   
   
10. We are just adding an additional stick, so we’ll install that one. First, locate the inset in the stick of RAM, and match it to the one on the motherboard’s slot. Open the white tabs on each end.
    
    
    
    
11. Put the RAM into the second memory slot, using the inset to help ensure accurate placement.
    
    
    
    
12. Push down firmly on both ends of the RAM stick, being careful not to let it turn sideways or go in crooked. When the RAM is in far enough, the white clips on each end should pop up helping to hold it securely in place. Check that the fit is snug.
    
    
    
    
13. Now that the RAM is installed, the computer must be put back together. Place the main black plastic panel back onto the rear of the machine, and press gently along the edges to begin snapping the back into place.
    
    
    
    
14. Tighten down the two screws located in the corner of the machine. You may hear several small pops as the case moves into alignment.
    
    
    
    
15. Press firmly along the edges of the case, to ensure a proper seal. This will help to keep unnecessary dust out of the computer.
    
    
16. Then we need to reattach the legs. Line the two small black plastic tabs on the top of the leg assembly up with the two small notches on the back of the computer. Slide these tabs in, and rotate the piece down like a hinge.
    
    
    
    
17. Replace the four screws that hold the leg assembly, and screw them in loosely. Check to make sure all four are seated properly, and then tighten down firmly.
    
    
    
    
18. Finally, replace the four black rubber plugs, to cover the screws that were just installed.
    
    
    
    **Now that the RAM is physically installed, we’ll set up your computer to properly utilize it. If you end up needing Computer Help Desk services however, we are always happy to provide you with any IT services you might require.
    
    
19. After reconnecting all of the essential cables, like mouse, keyboard, and power turn the computer on. You may see a black screen with some text on it that you aren’t used to seeing, but that’s just the computer recognizing the new RAM.
    
    
20. Once Windows has started, click on the Start button in the bottom left of your screen. Then right-click on Computer, and click Properties.
    
    
    
    
    
    
21. In the window that comes up, click Advanced System Settings in the upper left panel. This will bring up the Advanced tab of the System Properties window. Under ‘Performance’ click Settings, and on this new window click Advanced at the top of this dialog box.
    
    
    
    
    
    
22. On the ‘Performance Options’ box, select Change to adjust what’s called your “paging file.” This file must be adjusted whenever RAM is installed. First, uncheck the Automatically Manage box. Then, make sure the Custom Size radio button is selected.
    
    
     
23. To set your paging file to the proper size, a small bit of easy math must be performed. Take the number of Mb’s (or megabytes of memory ) that the RAM now totals, let’s say for example 2048 (for 2 Gigs) of memory. You take this number, and multiply it by 1.5, so roughly 3000Mb. This is the “Initial Size” we’ll set. Add an extra 200 on, so in our example 3200Mb for the “Maximum Size” and hit Ok to accept the value.
    
    
    
24. Click Ok on the next screen to apply the changes we’ve just made. Click the red ‘X’ in the corner to close the open windows. Your computer should ask you to restart, and do so.
    
    
     

Congratulations, you’ve successfully installed your RAM. Now sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labor… likely a noticeably faster computer!

Should you decide that your machine is in need of a boost, come by our Mooresville, Indiana facility and let one of our qualified IT Support Technicians help you enjoy your PC even more.

If you liked this Blog Post, then check out The Interconnect Group other Blog Posts:

1. A Great Small Business Network Router for your Design
2. Has Your IT Rack Gotten Out Of Hand
3. Virus Alert!! Make Sure You Are Protected!!
4. Wireless 3G Networks...Which one do you choose?
5. Get Empowered with Oracle Software Products
6. Benefits of Volume Licensing
7. 10 Handy and Free Software Programs
8. 5 More Features of Windows 7
9. Free Microsoft Antivirus Software
   
    

Today I had a computer come in that when it was turned on, it went straight into safe mode repeatedly each time.  I must say in all my time in PC Repair Indiana, today was the first time I had seen anything like this happen.  If you ever run into this problem on Windows Vista, this is how you fix it.

Just go to Start, and type MSCONFIG and press enter.  Then go to the boot tab.  In the boot tab you will see an option on the lower, left hand corner.  Uncheck "Safe Boot" and restart your computer.  If that does not fix the issue you may need to take it to a Computer Support Indianapolis specialist.  It could still be going into safe mode because of a virus, software, or hardware issue.

Check Out Our Other Blogs!

• How To Connect To A Wireless Network, Windows 7/Vista/XP
• Fake Antivirus Threats
• 3 Great Ways to Help Speed Up Your Computer
• Free Programming Tools and Training from Microsoft

There has been a recent outbreak in people getting antivirus warnings on their computer.  A program that looks strikingly similar to a Windows Security Alert Window alarms you to a "infection" that has occurred on your computer.  If you attempt to remove it as instructed by the program, it tells you that you need to upgrade to the full copy and it will asks for your credit card number.  Does this sound familiar?  I hope not, because if so your computer security has been compromised!

In Computer Support Indiana, I have helped many clients that have lived through this in part or in full.  The real infection is this software that is telling you that you have the infection.  People who have been experiencing this issue ask me "how did I get this virus?"  This type of virus is referred to as a drive-by virus. 

A drive-by virus is a virus or any malicious software program that is downloaded without the user's consent.  For example, you could go to www.facebook.com and get a virus just from visiting the site.  They are really hard to track down, and remove.  Just because a site is infected does not mean that the owner of the site is the person responsible.  Hackers are now able to stick their virus on a site without any knowledge of the owner of said website.  Sometimes the malicious bits of code are distributed through ads and are constantly varying.

In Virus Removal Indiana, it is very hard to pinpoint exactly where you picked it up, but we can definitely help you get rid of it.  The removal process of these types of viruses can be difficult, so it takes an experienced person to clean it up.  The only way to minimize your chance of getting infected is to have an up to date antivirus software.  We recommend the Kaspersky Internet Security product for most home users.  Antivirus software does not guarantee that you will not pick up a virus somewhere, but it does typically minimize the impact which results in a smaller computer repair Mooresville bill. 

If you would like assistance with purchasing the correct antivirus software product for your computers, then please contact your local Computer Sales and Services technician.

Related Posts

1. How To Connect To A Wireless Network, Windows 7/Vista/XP
2. How To Set Up A Ventrilo (Vent) Server
3. Fake Antivirus Threats
4. Five Failed Electronic Devices
5. 3 Great Ways to Help Speed Up Your Computer

People often have trouble deciding between a new laptop or desktop.  The answer depends on what you need to do on the new computer.  How much performance you need versus the budget you have to spend.  Everyone wants to get the fastest computer they can in their price range, but speed is not always the primary concern.

Desktop computers are great for speed and reliability.  One typically gets more "bang for your buck."  The problem with desktops is that they are big, cannot travel well, and you always need a power source.  Laptops are great for people on the go allowing for access to the computer anywhere that you might need one.  Laptops take a beating and typically don't last as long as desktops.  It is recommend to plan for some extra visits to the Computer Repair Mooresville store when looking at the total cost of ownership of a laptop versus a desktop.  Today it is very common for us to see people that own both a laptop and a desktops in our Computer Sales Indiana practice.

The deciding factor simply lies in where you would use it the most.  If you don't really have  a use for the mobility aspect of a laptop, then go with the desktop which will gain you higher performance per price.  If you are frequently out with friends or at a coffee shop working, then go with the laptop.  If you would like further help deciding which is the best option for you, then please contact your Computer Support Indiana specialist for further help.  They can help you decided what will be best for you and even show you various makes and models of each that meet your budget.

Related Posts:

1. How To Connect To A Wireless Network
2. How To Set Up A Ventrilo (Vent) Server
3. 10 Handy and Free Software Programs
4. Free Microsoft Antivirus Software
5. Nexus One by Google - Too much hype?

I just finished speaking with a client who has gone several rounds with an insurance company in regards to damages sustained during an automobile accident last year.  During the wreck, her laptop was damaged and she's been going round and round with the insurance company to get them to replace her laptop.  Our computer repair Mooresville shop routinely writes letters to insurance companies for our clients verifying damaged sustained to computers and related computer hardware.

The typical process varies across insurance agencies, but typically your insurance agency will request that you have a computer professional diagnosis the problem.  Our computer repair Mooresville store most frequently gets insurance claim requests during Indiana's storm season.  Damaged sustained to a laptop caught up in a car hitting a semi truck that just pulled out in front of it was fairly easy to diagnosis as being bad.  If one of your computers finds itself to be on the receiving end of a natural disaster, freak of nature, or motorist not paying attention, then you'll most likely need to following these steps when making a computer related insurance claim:

1. Check with your insurance agent to verify their specific process first.
2. When an examination is required, then bring all of the damage computer/laptop/hardware to us.
3. Our computer repair Mooresville technicians will examine the damaged hardware and produce a write up on our corporate letterhead stating our findings.
4. Submit the letter to your insurance agent. 
5. You may need to send the damage hardware to your insurance company.
6. Some insurance companies require to have their own computer professional verify our findings.
7. Typically, there are a few calls back and fourth between us and them.
8. Once everyone agrees on the findings, the normal claims process resumes.

One word of caution, don't try to scam your insurance agency and even more important don't try to involve us in it!  We will play no part in it!  When people try to scam the insurance companies it makes it harder on clients like the one that I spoke with today who have a justified claim and just want some resolution without being hassled.

If we can help you with a computer related insurance claim, please stop by our computer repair Mooresville store.  We are open M-F 9AM-6PM W 9AM-4PM and Closed on Weekends and Holidays.  Or you can call our main number (317) 831-0704 Option 1 and mention this blog to get a $20 Discount on your next computer repair.

If you liked this Blog Post, then check out The Interconnect Group other Blog Posts:

1. Has Your IT Rack Gotten Out Of Hand
2. Wireless 3G Networks...Which one do you choose?
3. Get Empowered with Oracle Software Products
4. Benefits of Volume Licensing
5. 10 Handy and Free Software Programs
6. 5 More Features of Windows 7
7. Free Microsoft Antivirus Software
    

Working in virus infected computer repair,  virus removal still leaves alot of issues which result in slow computer performance.  Typically a removed virus leaves behind plenty of other files that slow down the computer.  Finding and removing these items should bring the computer's performance back up to par.  Below I recommend running a combination of program/utilities that are free and widely available for your use.

First , download and run a program called CCleaner.  What it does is remove all of the temporary and unused files from your computer. This helps your computer find files faster by getting rid of the clutter that you no longer need.

Second, download and run a program called Malware-bytes.  This is used to find more of those pesky files left behind by a virus.  It will remove these files and keep them from purposely slowing down your computer.

Lastly, I suggest running a disk defrag on your computer.  Some people say that this does not help, but I differ because I've seen it work wonders on many slow computers here in our computer repair Indiana shop.  This program re-arranges the files on your computer to keep everything organized and running smoothly.

There are countless other ways to help speed up a slow computer, but proceed with caution.  I deal on a daily basis in our computer repair Indiana practice with plenty of reasons why computers are running slow.  It isn't always one solution fits all, but skilled use of the above mentioned programs/utilities will definitely aim you in the correct direction.  As always, I suggest those of you  who are not somewhat knowledgeable with computer maintenance proceed with caution when using these or any other computer maintenance utilities.  For inexperienced people, I would recommend speaking to a professional computer repair person.

If you are in need of computer repair service, please feel free to contact me at 317-831-0704 or drop via email at brett@tincg.com


Related Blogs

1. The Right Video Card For You

2. A New Anti-Virus For A New Generation

3. 10 Handy And Free Software Programs

4. Speeding Up A Slow Computer
 

A lot of questions in Computer Sales Indiana that I receive are about what is the best video card to use.  There is no correct answer to this question. With all the video cards available on the market, the decision on what to buy can be very tough.  You need to look at what you typically do with your computer.

If you are a person who just uses your computer for surfing the web and the occasional video or movie, then an on-board or built-in video card should do.  Most all video cards on the market today can handle movie playback and some low end video games.

The next question I get in Computer Repair Indiana is typically something around the lines of what should you buy if you are looking to get into computer gaming.  This is where shopping for the right video card can become really confusing.  The First thing to look at is what is the requirements for the game you are going to want to play.  This is a big part of what you are going to spend.

If you are looking to play multiple games  I would recommend going with a middle to high end video card.  Yet again, the number of video cards in this range is mind blowing.  To select the right one you need to look at what components you have already in your computer.  If  you are using an AMD system, I would recommend using a ATI video card.  ATI is currently owned by AMD and the compatibility with the two make the card perform better with the computer than another manufacture would.  If you are using an Intel system, Nvidia would probobly suit your neets better.  The Nvidia will give you a little better price, and it can match the ATI video card's performance in a Intel enviroment.

There are still plenty of more issues and questions that come up with picking the right video card for you in PC Repair Indiana.  There is really no right answer on what brand or price range to spend.  If you are looking to purchase a new card, you can contact me at brett@tincg.com and I will do my best to make sure that we can find the video card to suit your needs.

Related Posts

1. Antivirus For A New Generation
2. Windows XP Mode In Windows 7
3. Computer Envy

For all of us working in computer repair Indiana, we have been in need of a great antivirus program that is affordable, under the radar from directed attacks, and reliable.  This new program is called Kaspersky.  Kaspersky ranked number 3 in security last year.   We caution the use of free antivirus programs such as AVG Free for their unreliability.  We've seen many users come in to our computer repair Indiana shop who had AVG Free loaded but still got infected.  However, the free Microsoft antivirus program is so far proving to be very promising.  After seeing and using this product for several months, we are very happy to say that Kaspersky offers great protection at a very affordable price.

Years of development have gone into finding way to protect against viruses and spyware.  Most antivirus software adheres to two golden and painful rules.  They seem to take alot of space and always ask you annoying questions.  The Kaspersky antivirus product breaks this commonality.

Working in computer sales and services, I really like where this product is and where it is going.   I would highly recomend this product to anyone who is looking to protect their system at a affordable price.

If your computer keeps getting infected or you are in need of an affordable antivirus product, please give us a  call at (317) 831-0704.

If you liked this Blog Post, then check out other IT Related Posts:

1. Windows XP Mode in Windows 7
2. 5 Reasons To Deploy a Small Business Server
3. Doesn't The Phone Company Extend The Demarc
4. 10 Handy and Free Software Programs
5. Don't Over Pay For Your Router and Network Hardware
6. 5 More Features of Windows 7
7. Free Microsoft Antivirus Software

Looking for a good free antivirus for your home or business IT network, then look no further than Microsoft Security Essentials. The product can be downloaded free at Microsoft Security Essentials site.  I have it installed on a few machines in our virus removal Indiana office.  It already has flagged a few security issue not found by my version of Symantec Antivirus 2009.

Microsoft Security Essentials is a free Antivirus that is simple to install, and always kept up to date so you can easily and effectively protect your PC for free from Microsoft.  Microsoft Security Essentials runs quietly and efficiently in the background so that you are free to use your computer the way you want, without interruptions or long computer wait times.


















Microsoft Security Essentials uses a easy to read interface that used color sceams to help easily identify which state the system is in.  Green means the system if fully protected.   Orange means the system if potentially unprotected since there is a minor problem.  Red means there has been a infection found and the system is currently unprotected.  The software helps you easily fix problems that occur to insure that you will be running safely with just a few mouse clicks.  The easy to use promptes help you quickly work on virus infected computer repair work.



So go ahead and give it a try today by downloading it at Micrsoft's Security Essentials Webpage or talk to you local virus infected computer repair shop.

There are no up front costs nor virus definition subscription costs for Microsoft Security Essentials.  It is totally free!

If you liked this Blog Post, then check out other IT Related Posts:

1. Use Windows Sm. Bus. Server to Help with Your IT Needs
2. 10 Handy and Free Software Programs
   
3. 5 More Features of Windows 7
4. Make Word 2007 Always Save in Word 2003 Format

With the release of Windows 7 approaching, we are able to see more features about this anticipated operating system.  In computer sales and services. there are a few mixed reviews about Windows 7.  Here at TINCG we are happy to bring you 5 more features of Windows 7.  Weather you are in the market for purchasing a new computer or are tired of Vista making your computer run slow, Windows 7 is a great slow computer repair alternative.

              1.  Snap

Windows 7 has a new feature called "Snap".  This is where you can pull a window to one side.  It will then only take up one side of the screen.  You can then pull a window to the other side to take up the other half of the screen.  This leaves the two windows side by side so you can easily transfer files between the two windows.



              2.  Shake

Shake is where you have a few windows open, but none are full size.  You do not want to see all the windows in the background.  You can grab the window you want to view and shake your mouse.  It will minimize all other windows other than the one you grabbed.



              3.  Play to
You can now select pictures, videos, and music to play on another computer, TV, or stereo in your home with the play to feature.  This is great for those people who like to access files on their computer from anywhere in their home.



              4.  Peek

Another fun feature is "Peek".  It allows the user to look through all the windows to see the desktop.  It makes all the open windows go clear, without having to minimize or close all your windows.  It is nice since all you have to do is move your mouse to the bottom right-hand corner of the task bar.  Just to the right of the time and date.



              5.  Slideshow

You can set your background to be a slideshow, rather than one constant picture.  This is great if you get tired of the same boring background, or want to display all the pictures you have on your computer like on a digital picture frame.  This is an option that can be set up very easily by right-clicking on your desktop, and going to personalize.



There are many more fun and exciting features of Windows 7.  We now have it installed on several machines in the office and home.  I look forward to future blogs about Windows 7.  As somone who works in computer sales Indiana, I'm anticipating helping clients like you get the most out of this new operating system from Microsoft.

Related Posts

1. How to use MSCONFIG
2. 10 Handy Free Software Programs
3. Local Computer Stores Vs. Big Block Stores
   

I answer several trouble calls each day from high speed Internet customers.  I commonly have the same issues come up across multiple users and services.  Normally, about 80-90% of all calls can be fixed by the caller.  Our WISP Support Services typically answer most calls by asking the client to reboot their equipment first.  Most consumer grade routers and modems are very susceptible to power surges and fades, so rebooting them clears them out of a locked up state.  If the problem can't be resolved by a simple reboot, then the user can take a few minutes to gather crucial information that will enable their ISP to fix the problem over the phone.  Familiarizing yourself with your customer equipment will reduce the necessary time on the phone with support and increase your surfing time.

Again, the first thing to try when you are having connection problems is a simple reboot of your customer premise equipment (CPE).  Disconnect the power to the modem (or for WISP customers it would be the PoE that powers the radio) and your router if you have one.  I also recommend restarting your computer.  This will reset all of your customer premise equipment.  We find that this helps many of our customers in our WISP Support Services department.

To reboot the devices, unplug the power going to each device by pulling out the smaller, black cable, shown below in the attached pictures.  Unplug the power to both the xDSL modem (or WISP PoE) and the router (if you have one).  Leave them both unplugged for about 30 seconds and then start from the xDSL (WISP PoE) and work your way back to the computer.  Plug in the modem wait 10-15 seconds, then plug in the router and wait 10-15 seconds. Now turn on your computer.  Your just completed the first step that our WISP Support Services technicians would be asking you to do.



If that still does not fix the issue, please try to find your IP address.  You can do this by going to Start then Run in Windows XP. If you are using Windows Vista or Windows 7, in the search bar type "CMD".  Once you have a black box appear type ipconfig.  This black box is known as the "Command Prompt".  This should tell you your IP address and other information your WISP Support Services technician will need to know to better serve you.  One other thing to try.  When you have your command prompt open.  You can type ipconfig /renew.  This will make your computer talk to your router or your ISP for a new IP address.

For the more advanced users, you may want to try the following steps.

• Type ipconfig /all in your CMD prompt window.  If your physically connected to the router by an Ethernet cable, then you will see a heading that starts out with "Ethernet adapter Local Area Connection".  Under there, you'll see "IP Address..............." or "IPv4 Address............" if you are using Vista or Windows 7.  Write this IP address down because it is the physical address currently assigned to your computer.

• If this IP starts with "169.xxx.xxx.xxx", then most likely your computer is not talking to your router or modem.  We commonly see this in our PC Repair Indiana business when the customer's computer has a bad Ethernet card or if the cable is bad that is connecting the computer to the router.  If you are using a wireless card, then you'll have to look under your wireless LAN adapter to get your IP information.

• Make note of your default gateway IP address which will be found after "Default Gateway.....".  This is the IP address of your router or modem.  If you open a web browser and type this IP address into it, then you should get a login prompt for your router.  After entering the login credentials (default username for many routers is "admin" and the password will be "password" or "admin", but check your router manual to be sure).

• Verify that your router is programmed properly.  Most routers have a "Status" page in them so that you can see if it is connected to your ISP.  In our WISP Support Services, we are commonly looking to see if the router has established a PPPoE connection to the system.

If you use these tips before you call your ISP for help, it can help give your WISP Support Services technician an idea on what steps to try next.  In most situations it can keep you from having to call tech support at all.  That gets you back to surfing the web faster.

Related Posts

1. How to use MSCONFIG
2. Fax Over IP
3. 10 Handy Free Software Programs