DIY-PC-Recovery

Kids Zone Academy offers joyful learning, kids activities, and educational programs for children. Enroll today for a safe, fun, and skill-building learning experience!

2026-10-21T12:28:03.811-07:00

https://www.kids-zone-academy.com/. Pick the one you like best (or tell me your exact services/city and I’ll tailor them tighter).

Option 1 (general)

Kids Zone Academy offers joyful learning, kids activities, and educational programs for children. Enroll today for a safe, fun, and skill-building learning experience!

Option 2 (kid-focused + academy wording)

Discover Kids Zone Academy—a trusted kids learning academy with engaging educational activities, development programs, and fun classroom learning for children.

Option 3 (shorter + punchy)

Kids Zone Academy provides fun, educational learning for kids. Explore kids activities and enroll in our children learning programs today!

Option 4 (more keyword-heavy)

Looking for a kids learning academy? Kids Zone Academy delivers engaging kids activities, child development programs, and educational learning in a safe, supportive environment.

Kids Zone Academy is the Best Preschool in St. Pete

2019-02-22T10:03:00.002-08:00

Kids Zone Academy is the Best Preschool in St. Pete, They Provide a High Quality, Safe and Loving Environment. To promote Adequate, Physical, Emotional and Educational Development.

Best Preschool in St.Pete

Android Games Infected With Malware

2016-02-25T08:41:00.001-08:00

According to Dr.Web’s security researchers these Android games are containing a malicious trojan named Android.Xiny.

30 different developers were responsible for uploading these 60+ games which is infected with Malware. By downloading any one of these Games personal information of users who download are collected and sent to a remote C&C (command and control) server.

Once this data is collected and sent to the C&C server, based on the user’s phone specifications, the malware operator would tell the trojan to display ads on the user’s screen. It also downloads other malicious apps and infect the device.

It collects very reliable information including IMEI and IMSI identifiers, mobile operator information, country and language settings. It further collected the information of the OS version, MAC address of the phone, kind of memory card inserted into the device and the app from where the Trojan was getting all the information.

Make Symbols with Key Board

2015-05-27T03:58:00.001-07:00

Worth Sharing Keyboard Shortcuts (Microsoft Windows) and Add more in comments if we have missed out any ..

Affordable Child Care

1. CTRL+C (Copy)
2. CTRL+X (Cut)
3. CTRL+V (Paste)...
4. CTRL+Z (Undo)
5. DELETE (Delete)
6. SHIFT+DELETE (Delete the selected item permanently without placing the item in the Recycle Bin)
7. CTRL while dragging an item (Copy the selected item)
8. CTRL+SHIFT while dragging an item (Create a shortcut to the selected item)
9. F2 key (Rename the selected item)
10. CTRL+RIGHT ARROW (Move the insertion point to the beginning of the next word)
11. CTRL+LEFT ARROW (Move the insertion point to the beginning of the previous word)
12. CTRL+DOWN ARROW (Move the insertion point to the beginning of the next paragraph)
13. CTRL+UP ARROW (Move the insertion point to the beginning of the previous paragraph)
14. CTRL+SHIFT with any of the arrow keys (Highlight a block of text)
SHIFT with any of the arrow keys (Select more than one item in a window or on the desktop, or select text in a document)
15. CTRL+A (Select all)
16. F3 key (Search for a file or a folder)
17. ALT+ENTER (View the properties for the selected item)
18. ALT+F4 (Close the active item, or quit the active program)
19. ALT+ENTER (Display the properties of the selected object)
20. ALT+SPACEBAR (Open the shortcut menu for the active window)
21. CTRL+F4 (Close the active document in programs that enable you to have multiple documents opensimultaneously)
22. ALT+TAB (Switch between the open items)
23. ALT+ESC (Cycle through items in the order that they had been opened)
24. F6 key (Cycle through the screen elements in a window or on the desktop)
25. F4 key (Display the Address bar list in My Computer or Windows Explorer)
26. SHIFT+F10 (Display the shortcut menu for the selected item)
27. ALT+SPACEBAR (Display the System menu for the active window)
28. CTRL+ESC (Display the Start menu)
29. ALT+Underlined letter in a menu name (Display the corresponding menu) Underlined letter in a command name on an open menu (Perform the corresponding command)
30. F10 key (Activate the menu bar in the active program)
31. RIGHT ARROW (Open the next menu to the right, or open a submenu)
32. LEFT ARROW (Open the next menu to the left, or close a submenu)
33. F5 key (Update the active window)
34. BACKSPACE (View the folder onelevel up in My Computer or Windows Explorer)
35. ESC (Cancel the current task)
36. SHIFT when you insert a CD-ROMinto the CD-ROM drive (Prevent the CD-ROM from automatically playing)
Dialog Box - Keyboard Shortcuts
1. CTRL+TAB (Move forward through the tabs)
2. CTRL+SHIFT+TAB (Move backward through the tabs)
3. TAB (Move forward through the options)
4. SHIFT+TAB (Move backward through the options)
5. ALT+Underlined letter (Perform the corresponding command or select the corresponding option)
6. ENTER (Perform the command for the active option or button)
7. SPACEBAR (Select or clear the check box if the active option is a check box)
8. Arrow keys (Select a button if the active option is a group of option buttons)
9. F1 key (Display Help)
10. F4 key (Display the items in the active list)
11. BACKSPACE (Open a folder one level up if a folder is selected in the Save As or Open dialog box)

Microsoft Natural Keyboard Shortcuts
1. Windows Logo (Display or hide the Start menu)
2. Windows Logo+BREAK (Display the System Properties dialog box)
3. Windows Logo+D (Display the desktop)
4. Windows Logo+M (Minimize all of the windows)
5. Windows Logo+SHIFT+M (Restorethe minimized windows)
6. Windows Logo+E (Open My Computer)
7. Windows Logo+F (Search for a file or a folder)
8. CTRL+Windows Logo+F (Search for computers)
9. Windows Logo+F1 (Display Windows Help)
10. Windows Logo+ L (Lock the keyboard)
11. Windows Logo+R (Open the Run dialog box)
12. Windows Logo+U (Open Utility Manager)
13. Accessibility Keyboard Shortcuts
14. Right SHIFT for eight seconds (Switch FilterKeys either on or off)
15. Left ALT+left SHIFT+PRINT SCREEN (Switch High Contrast either on or off)
16. Left ALT+left SHIFT+NUM LOCK (Switch the MouseKeys either on or off)
17. SHIFT five times (Switch the StickyKeys either on or off)
18. NUM LOCK for five seconds (Switch the ToggleKeys either on or off)
19. Windows Logo +U (Open Utility Manager)
20. Windows Explorer Keyboard Shortcuts
21. END (Display the bottom of the active window)
22. HOME (Display the top of the active window)
23. NUM LOCK+Asterisk sign (*) (Display all of the subfolders that are under the selected folder)
24. NUM LOCK+Plus sign (+) (Display the contents of the selected folder)

MMC Console keyboard shortcuts

1. SHIFT+F10 (Display the Action shortcut menu for the selected item)
2. F1 key (Open the Help topic, if any, for the selected item)
3. F5 key (Update the content of all console windows)
4. CTRL+F10 (Maximize the active console window)
5. CTRL+F5 (Restore the active console window)
6. ALT+ENTER (Display the Properties dialog box, if any, for theselected item)
7. F2 key (Rename the selected item)
8. CTRL+F4 (Close the active console window. When a console has only one console window, this shortcut closes the console)

Remote Desktop Connection Navigation
1. CTRL+ALT+END (Open the Microsoft Windows NT Security dialog box)
2. ALT+PAGE UP (Switch between programs from left to right)
3. ALT+PAGE DOWN (Switch between programs from right to left)
4. ALT+INSERT (Cycle through the programs in most recently used order)
5. ALT+HOME (Display the Start menu)
6. CTRL+ALT+BREAK (Switch the client computer between a window and a full screen)
7. ALT+DELETE (Display the Windows menu)
8. CTRL+ALT+Minus sign (-) (Place a snapshot of the active window in the client on the Terminal server clipboard and provide the same functionality as pressing PRINT SCREEN on a local computer.)
9. CTRL+ALT+Plus sign (+) (Place asnapshot of the entire client window area on the Terminal server clipboardand provide the same functionality aspressing ALT+PRINT SCREEN on a local computer.)

Microsoft Internet Explorer Keyboard Shortcuts
1. CTRL+B (Open the Organize Favorites dialog box)
2. CTRL+E (Open the Search bar)
3. CTRL+F (Start the Find utility)
4. CTRL+H (Open the History bar)
5. CTRL+I (Open the Favorites bar)
6. CTRL+L (Open the Open dialog box)
7. CTRL+N (Start another instance of the browser with the same Web address)
8. CTRL+O (Open the Open dialog box,the same as CTRL+L)
9. CTRL+P (Open the Print dialog box)
10. CTRL+R (Update the current Web page)
11. CTRL+W (Close the current window)

USMC Junglist PC Tips.

2014-07-17T09:57:00.000-07:00

USMC Junglist PC Tips.

Free Registry Cleaner, You Can Trust

2014-07-17T09:55:00.001-07:00

CCleaner

Optimization and Cleaning

What Is a Registry Cleaner?

If you own a Windows PC, you'll be used to performing some basic maintenance tasks to keep it running smoothly and prevent problems with applications or files. Most of us regularly update our virus definitions, empty the Recycle Bin and so on.
When it comes to PC maintenance, a Registry Cleaner should also be part of your toolkit. Its purpose is to keep your Windows Registry tidy, efficient and help applications to run without a hitch.

But What's the Registry?

Think of the Registry as a database. On every Windows PC, the Registry stores preferences and settings for applications and the Windows operating system itself.
Windows does a good job of keeping the registry up-to-date, but doesn't tidy up after itself very well. Over time, as you install and uninstall applications, the registry can become littered with old entries. These can cause error messages and slow the computer down. If you want ensure that your PC functions correctly, and remains fast, you'll need to clean it up.

Malware

Malicious applications (malware) can also cause Registry problems. Even when the software has been removed, the remnants of that application may remain - causing error messages and slow downs. Cleaning the Registry can help to remove all this left over data.

Identity Theft

Many applications save data in the Registry, this may include personal information, such as your email address or passwords. After removing the application, some of this data may remain - creating a security risk! Cleaning the Registry will remove this left over personal data and help prevent data theft should someone get access to your computer.

Can I edit the Registry myself?

Technically, you can edit the Windows Registry 'by hand'. But there are two key reasons not to:

It's really easy to change the wrong setting
If you make a mistake, the consequences might be quite severe. (For example, your PC might refuse to start)

That's why Registry Cleaners exist - To do the job for you!

Benefits of Registry Cleaner Software

Once your Registry has been cleaned up, you will likely notice a performance boost and any error messages you saw whilst using your computer previously will be gone.
The Registry Cleaner will remove entries for non-existent applications, and it'll also fix invalid or corrupted entries. You'll probably find your computer starts much more quickly too!

CCleaner as a Registry Cleaner

The great news is that CCleaner contains one of the most used and respected Registry Cleaners on the market today. We encourage you to download and try it out, we know you'll like the results!

Download CCleaner

Want to clean and optimize your PC? You've probably heard of CCleaner, arguably the world's most popular tool for doing the job. It clears out temporary files, cleans the Windows Registry, erases browser histories, and so on. The big news in CCleaner 3.0 is a native 64-bit version for use with like editions of Windows.

CCleaner 3.0 also sports new icons, various interface improvements, better support for Google Chrome and Internet Explorer 9, and newly added support for programs such as AVG AntiVirus 10.0, Audacity, LogMeIn Hamachi, BitTorrent, and Windows Game Explorer.
I particularly like the way CCleaner intelligently scans for cookies you'd want to keep, like those for Google and Yahoo.

In short, CCleaner is the ultimate system-cleaning tool just got better. It's still free, thankfully, though you can purchase a priority-support license for $25. Developer Piriform is also known for Defraggler and Recuva.
As with any tool of this kind, I strongly recommend making a full system backup and creating a new system-restore point before using it. Better safe than sorry!

Note: CCleaner includes the option to install Google Chrome and make it your default browser. You will have to uncheck two checkboxes if you don't want this to happen. This program is donationware. It is free to try, but the author accepts and encourages donations towards further development.

Remove PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A (Virus Removal Guide)

2014-07-17T09:45:00.001-07:00

PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A is a specific detection used by Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and other antivirus products to indicate and detect a Potentially Unwanted Program.
A potentially unwanted application is a program that contains adware, installs toolbars or has other unclear objectives.

PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A it’s technically not a virus, but it does exhibit plenty of malicious traits, such as rootkit capabilities to hook deep into the operating system, browser hijacking, and in general just interfering with the user experience. The industry generally refers to it as a “PUP,” or potentially unwanted program.
The PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A infection is used to boost advertising revenue, as in the use of blackhat SEO, to inflate a site’s page ranking in search results.
PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A got on your computer after you have installed a freeware software (video recording/streaming, download-managers or PDF creators) that had bundled into their installation this browser hijacker. This Potentially Unwanted Propgram is also bundled within the custom installer on many download sites (examples: CNET, Brothersoft or Softonic), so if you have downloaded a software from these websites, chances are that PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A was installed during the software setup process.
PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A is an ad-supported (users may see additional banner, search, pop-up, pop-under, interstitial and in-text link advertisements) cross web browser plugin for Internet Explorer (BHO) and Firefox/Chrome (plugin) and distributed through various monetization platforms during installation. The browser extension includes various features that will modify the default or custom settings of the browser including the home page, search settings and in some cases will modify Internet Explorer’s load time threshold, place a lock file within Firefox to prevent competing software from changing its settings as well as disable the browser’s Content Security Policy in order to allow for cross site scripting of the plugin.
You should always pay attention when installing software because often, a software installer includes optional installs, such as this PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A browser hijacker. Be very careful what you agree to install.
Always opt for the custom installation and deselect anything that is not familiar, especially optional software that you never wanted to download and install in the first place. It goes without saying that you should not install software that you don’t trust.

How to remove PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A (Virus Removal Guide)

This page is a comprehensive guide, which will remove PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A from Internet Explorer, Firefox and Google Chrome.
Please perform all the steps in the correct order. If you have any questions or doubt at any point, STOP and ask for our assistance.
STEP 1: Remove PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A adware with AdwCleaner
STEP 2: Remove PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A browser hijacker with Junkware Removal Tool
STEP 3: Remove PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A virus with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free
STEP 4: Double-check for the PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A infection with HitmanPro

STEP 1: Remove PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A adware with AdwCleaner

The AdwCleaner utility will scan your computer for PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A malicious files and registry keys, that may have been installed on your computer without your knowledge.

You can download AdwCleaner utility from the below link.
ADWCLEANER DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will automatically download AdwCleaner on your computer)
Before starting AdwCleaner, close all open programs and internet browsers, then double-click on the AdwCleaner icon.

If Windows prompts you as to whether or not you wish to run AdwCleaner, please allow it to run.
When the AdwCleaner program will open, click on the Scan button as shown below.

AdwCleaner will now start to search for PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A malicious files that may be installed on your computer.
To remove the PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A malicious files that were detected in the previous step, please click on the Clean button.

AdwCleaner will now prompt you to save any open files or data as the program will need to reboot the computer. Please do so and then click on the OK button.

STEP 2: Remove PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A browser hijack with Junkware Removal Tool

Junkware Removal Tool is a powerful utility, which will remove PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A virus from Internet Explorer, Firefox or Google Chrome.

You can download the Junkware Removal Tool utility from the below link:
JUNKWARE REMOVAL TOOL DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will automatically download the Junkware Removal Tool utility on your computer)
Once Junkware Removal Tool has finished downloading, please double-click on the JRT.exe icon as seen below.

If Windows prompts you as to whether or not you wish to run Junkware Removal Tool, please allow it to run.
Junkware Removal Tool will now start, and at the Command Prompt, you’ll need to press any key to perform a scan for the PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A.

Please be patient as this can take a while to complete (up to 10 minutes) depending on your system’s specifications.
When the scan Junkware Removal Tool will be completed, this utility will display a log with the malicious files and registry keys that were removed from your computer.

STEP 3: Remove PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A virus with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free utilizes Malwarebytes powerful technology to detect and remove all traces of malware including worms, trojans, rootkits, rogues, dialers, spyware and more.

You can download Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free from the below link, then double-click on the icon named mbam-setup.exe to install this program.
MALWAREBYTES ANTI-MALWARE DOWNLOAD LINK(This link will open a download page in a new window from where you can download Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free)
When the installation begins, keep following the prompts in order to continue with the setup process, then at the last screen click on the Finish button.
On the Scanner tab, select Perform quick scan, and then click on the Scan button to start searching for the PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A malicious files.
Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware will now start scanning your computer for PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A as shown below.
When the Malwarebytes Anti-Malware scan has finished, click on the Show Results button.
You will now be presented with a screen showing you the computer infections that Malwarebytes Anti-Malware has detected. Make sure that everything is Checked (ticked), then click on the Remove Selected button.

STEP 4: Double-check for the PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A infection with HitmanPro

HitmanPro is a second opinion scanner, designed to rescue your computer from malware (viruses, trojans, rootkits, etc.) that have infected your computer despite all the security measures you have taken (such as anti virus software, firewalls, etc.).

You can download HitmanPro from the below link:
HITMANPRO DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will open a web page from where you can download HitmanPro)
Double-click on the file named HitmanPro.exe (for 32-bit versions of Windows) or HitmanPro_x64.exe (for 64-bit versions of Windows). When the program starts you will be presented with the start screen as shown below.

Click on the Next button, to install HitmanPro on your computer.
HitmanPro will now begin to scan your computer for PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A malicious files.
When it has finished it will display a list of all the malware that the program found as shown in the image below. Click on the Next button, to remove PUP.Optional.HomeTab.A adware.
Click on the Activate free license button to begin the free 30 days trial, and remove all the malicious files from your computer.

HomeTab Adware Virus Removal

2014-07-17T07:20:00.000-07:00

What is HomeTab?

HomeTab virus is a term used to describe a browser hijacker, which modifies computer users' Internet browser settings by assigning the homepage, new tab, and default search engine settings to search.hometab.com (or search.newhometab.com). This browser hijacker is distributed using free software downloads, and at time of research, the HomeTab browser add-on was 'bundled' with VLC, PDF Creator, Zapp!, and 1Zip downloads. Note that developers of these free programs have no connection with HomeTab. The browser plugin is distributed via customized 'download clients', which offer installation of the HomeTab add-on together with the bundled programs. The best way to avoid installation of potentially unwanted applications is to download free software directly from the developers' websites.
Internet users who use free software download websites are at risk of installing adware, since, today, most freeware download sites use 'download clients' (such as vitalia download manager, Somoto BetterInstaller, etc.) to promote dubious free browser plugins. Commonly, these promoted browser extensions lead to unwanted ads or browser redirect issues. Technically, HomeTab is not a virus or malware, however, it is categorized as adware or a potentially unwanted program (PUP). After successful installation, it causes browser redirects, unwanted ads, and may lead to serious privacy issues. For these reasons, you are advised to eliminate it from your Internet browser/s (Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox).

The HomeTab browser add-on is similar to other adware distributed using a deceptive software marketing method called 'bundling', including for example, Fast Address Bar, Smart Address Bar, Smart Suggestor amongst many others. These programs modify users' Internet browser settings and cause unwanted ads, and furthermore, install without the user's consent. To avoid installation of such adware, Internet users should express caution when downloading free software, particularly when using free software download websites. If your download is managed by a download client, opt-out out of installation of any promoted browser add-ons by clicking the 'decline' button. If your browser homepage has been changed to search.hometab.com or search.newhometab.com, use the removal instructions provided to eliminate the HomeTab adware from your computer.
Deceptive free software installers used in HomeTab adware distribution:

HomeTab adware installer:

Quick menu:

HomeTab browser hijacker removal:

Windows 7 users:

Click "Start" ("Windows Logo" in the bottom left corner of your desktop), choose "Control Panel". Locate "Programs and Features."

Windows XP users:

Click "Start", choose "Settings" and click "Control Panel". Locate and click "Add or Remove Programs".
WIndows 8 users:

Right-click in the screen’s bottom-left corner, select Control Panel. In the opened window choose "Uninstall a Program".

In the uninstall programs window: look for "HomeTab", select this entry and click "Uninstall" or "Remove".
After uninstalling potentially unwanted programs (which cause browser redirects to the search.hometab.com website), scan your computer for any remaining unwanted components. To scan your computer, use recommended malware removal software. Remove all entries that this program detects to ensure your PC is clean from any possible spyware and malware infections.

Remover for HomeTab Adware

If you need assistance removing HomeTab Adware, give us a call 24/7:
1-800-681-6438

By downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. All the products we recommend were carefully tested and approved by our technicians as being one of the most effective solutions for removing this threat.

HP RAM Test

2014-07-16T10:48:00.000-07:00

Testing The Memory Using The BIOS Memory Test

The Memory Test, built into the BIOS for HP notebook computers, tests the condition and integrity of the installed memory. Run the test to identify potential issues if the computer does not start or operate properly.

Perform a Memory test

To use the Memory Test in the BIOS, follow the steps below.

Turn off the computer and connect the AC adapter.
Press the Power button to start the computer and repeatedly press the f10 key to enter the BIOS setup window.
Use the Left Arrow and Right Arrow keys to select Diagnostics .
Use the Down Arrow and Up Arrow keys to select the Memory Test , and then press the enter key to begin the test.
Allow the memory test to run and make note of any reported errors. If there is an error, you can contact HP for support, and to purchase replacement parts.

The message, Memory test pass [OK] is displayed when the Memory Test is complete. Press the f10 key to exit the BIOS Setup window.

Finding information about your computer's memory

You can view information about the computer's memory and other hardware components by following these steps. The information is organized by operating system and can be accessed using built-in Windows tools, and special tools provided by HP or Compaq.

Use Windows System Information tool

For XP, Vista, and Windows 7

Click Start , All Programs , Accessories , System Tools , and System Information .

Use My Computer Properties tool

For Vista and Windows 7

Click Start , Right-click Computer , and then select Properties .

The System windows display general information, including the Model Name , Processor , Operating System , and Memory , is displayed in the right panel. Computer , and then select Properties.

For Windows XP

Click Start , Right-click My Computer , and then select Properties .

The System Properties windows display general information, including the Operating System , Processor , and Memory .

Use HP Help & Support Tools

Click the link to Download the latest HP Help and Support tools .

For Vista and Windows 7

Click Start , type assistant and select HP Support Assistant from the list.
In the HP Support Assistant, click Learn

The Specifications panel, on the right-hand side, displays general information, including the Processor , Hard drive , and Memory .
Click More Information for Product Name, Product Number, and Serial Number information.

This information is also displayed at the bottom of the window.

For Windows XP

Click Start , Help & Support , and then click My HP Computer .

ABCs of DVD Drive Abbreviations

2013-11-07T08:54:00.004-08:00

The number of different formats available in DVD drives can be confusing to anyone in the market for one. The list is much longer, but to address a few of the common formats, we have DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-RAM ,DVD+R DL and DVD±RW. Wow! This list of common formats is long enough, no wonder it’s confusing!
What’s with all the Formats?!
The reason for various recordable DVD formats is that no one group owns the technology and different Groups have chosen to support one technology over another. There is no industrial standard for manufacturers to reference, so for the time being consumers will have a few choices.

The first thing to address is DVD itself, which stands for Digital Versatile Disc. Some may argue that the V stands for Video, but with the capability to store video, audio, and data files, Versatile is definitely the keyword.
Start with the Basics
A DVD-ROM drive is the only one we will address that does not record. ROM stands for Read Only Memory, and refers to the typical drive that can merely read DVDs, as well as CDs (all DVD drives can read CDs). The Lite-On LTD-163-DO-R has attributes representative of your typical DVD-ROM drive, and features a maximum DVD read speed of 16x and a maximum CD read speed of 48x.Before getting into the different recordable formats, let’s address the basics of what the R and RW stand for, regardless of whether there is a + or – in the middle. R stands for Recordable, which indicates that the disk may be recorded to only once. RW stands for ReWritable, which indicates that the disc may be recorded to more than once, and are generally rated for 1000 rewrites under good conditions.
The DVD-R/-RW format was developed by Pioneer, and was the first format compatible with stand alone DVD players. The group that promotes the technology calls itself the DVD Forum, which is “an international association of hardware manufacturers, software firms, content providers, and other users” with notable members such as Hitachi, Samsung, and Toshiba. The DVD-R/-RW format is based on CD-RW technology and uses a similar approach to burning discs.

The DVD+R/+RW format is a newer format, also based on CD-RW technology, and compatible with a large percentage of stand alone DVD players. The +R/+RW technology is not supported by the DVD Forum, and its main backing comes from a group called the DVD+RW Alliance. The Alliance “is a voluntary group of industry-leading personal computing manufacturers, optical storage and electronics manufacturers” with members such as Dell, Hewlett Packard, Sony, and Phillips Electronics.

The DVD-RAM format is based on PD-RW (Phase-Differential) drives, and actually uses a cartridge to hold the media (just like its PD-RW predecessor). Some DVD-RAM cartridges are double sided, making them ideal for companies to use as system backup, hence DVD-RAM is usually found only in commercial applications, and most end-users won’t ever need to use or see this type of drive. The DVD-RAM standard is also supported by the DVD Forum just like the DVD-R/RW format. However, because of its use of a cartridge (limiting it’s compatibility), and the scarcity and price of the media used, DVD-RAM is a distant third when compared to the DVD+R/+RW and DVD-R/–RW technology.

The +R/+RW and –R/-RW formats are similar, and the main difference DVD+R technology has is the ability to record to multiple layers (with its new DVD+R DL format), where DVD-R can only record to one layer (not all +R drives are capable of dual layer burning, but no -R drives are). The Plextor PX-504U is an example of an external DVD+R/+RW drive capable of recording single layer discs in the +R/+RW format, but also able to read discs recorded by a DVD-R drive.

What is DVD±RW?

DVD±RW is not actually a separate format, but the designation given to drives capable of both –R/–RW and +R/+RW operation. This type of drive is typically called a “Dual Drive” (not to be confused with a “Double Layer” drive) since it can write to both the +R/+RW and –R/–RW formats. The Samsung TS-H552 is a DVD±RW drive capable of reading and writing every format discussed so far, and then some. It takes advantage of DVD+R DL (Double Layer) technology available with the +R format, allowing the appropriate media to store virtually double the 4.37 GB capacity of a typical single layer disc.

The other main thing to consider with DVD burners is selecting the correct media. Media for DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R and DVD+RW media may all look the same, but they are slightly different in order to match the specific recording formats. The price of media for either format is generally the same, with RW media costing a good deal more than R media of either format. Double Layer media is even more expensive, and is the only way for an owner of DVD+R DL drive to take advantage of the tremendous capacity increase. As the amount of Double Layer drives increase in the market, the price of the DVD+R DL media is expected to fall with increased production of the media. DVD Burners (as these drive are often referred to) can be picky about the media supported, so be sure to choose your media wisely.
DVD in a Nutshell

    DVD-ROM : Reads DVD discs

    DVD+R : Writes to DVD+R media (will also typically write to CD-R and CD-RW media)

    DVD+RW : Writes to DVD+RW media (will also typically write to DVD+R, CD-R and CD-RW media)

    DVD+R DL : Writes to DVD+R DL (Double Layer) media (will also typically write to DVD+R, DVD+RW, CD-R and CD-RW media; many Double Layer drives are ALSO dual drives – that is, able to write to BOTH +R/RW and –R/RW media)

    DVD-RAM : Writes to DVD-RAM cartridges (not in wide use on consumer market – mainly a business format; can also read PD-RW discs. Will not usually be able to write to any other format including CD-R or CD-RW)

    DVD-R : Writes to DVD-R media (will also typically write to CD-R and CD-RW media)

    DVD-RW : Writes to DVD-RW media (will also typically write to DVD-R, CD-R and CD-RW media)

    DVD±RW : Writes to DVD-RW and DVD+RW media (will also typically write to DVD-R, DVD+R, CD-R and CD-RW media; typically called “Dual Drives” since it can burn to two different DVD formats)

Final Words

This article took a look at the more common formats of DVD drives in order to shed some light on all the choices available. The differences between them all may be subtle, but the compatibility issues can be quite frustrating. The simple answer to anyone considering a drive is to forget about + and – by themselves, and shoot for universal compatibility with a good DVD±RW with DVD+R DL support.

Tags: <Computers, DVD Drives>
Choosing a Computer Case
December 23, 2004 • Posted in Computers • Comment
In the past, computer cases were all very similar. Clones of the same boring, beige box. With all of the choices available today, this is no longer the ‘case’, and people can use their systems’ chassis as a means to express themselves and to set their system apart from the rest. Although appearance may be a big one, it isn’t the only factor in the selection process and the following items should be considered when shopping for a new computer case.
1. Form Factor
There are different sizes of motherboards, which in turn require different cases to house them. Case form factors share the names of the motherboards they support, and some of the common ones include ATX, Micro ATX (mATX), FlexATX and Mini ITX. ATX motherboards are perhaps the most common, and the largest of the four, measuring at most 12″ x 9.6″ (305mm x 244mm). A Micro ATX board is at most 9.6″ x 9.6″ (244mm x 244mm), a FlexATX is 9.0″ x 7.5″ (229mm x 191mm) and a Mini ITX comes in at a tiny 6.7″ x 6.7″ (170mm x 170mm). ATX and mATX are by far the most popular motherboard sizes for consumer motherboards, and hence, most cases are made to support one or both of these sizes.A mATX motherboard can obviously fit in a smaller enclosure than an ATX motherboard, and therefore there are different size cases available to match. The larger cases are generally downward compatible with smaller form factor motherboards, but the opposite is not true. For example, someone with this Amptron mATX motherboard could save a few inches and install it in this14.25″ tall mATX case, or pick something like this black ATX case that stands just a bit taller at 16.5″.Many branded systems (ones that you may buy prebuilt and with preinstalled software) are usually a combination of a standard form factor (such a mATX) with some type of proprietary design (usually in the front panel switches and cabling) and buying a new case for these types of motherboards can be tricky. Some branded systems also use lesser used form factors such as NLX and LPX (which employ riser cards for the expansion slots) and finding replacement cases for these type of systems can be a very difficult and pricey endeavor.

A smaller system may be desirable where space is tight, but larger form factor cases provide more room for multiple drives and other peripherals, and a smaller motherboard may be better suited to a larger case in a system such as this.
2. Size
Size may go along with form factor in many respects, but even while considering cases of the same form factor, there can be variations in size in a few respects. Areas where size can vary are in overall dimensions, the number of exposed 5.25″ and 3.5″ bays, and the number of internal bays.ATX cases obviously need to be large enough to hold an ATX motherboard; some are just large enough, while others seem cavernous in comparison. If a case needs to fit under a low shelf, or between items of a certain width, it is important to choose an appropriately sized case. Cases come in two basic configurations when it comes to their size and shape, either desktop or tower. Desktop cases are wider than they are tall and are oriented so the motherboard lays flat, while tower cases have the motherboard standing upright, and come in three basic heights. mini tower, mid tower, and full tower.The number of exposed drive bays is generally in direct proportion to the overall size of the case. A higher number of exposed 5.25″ bays may be desirable for those with more than one DVD or CD drive, removable drive racks, and fan controllers. Exposed 3.5″ bays are generally occupied by floppy drives, Zip drives, fan controllers, and things like this 9-in-1 Card Reader, and in most cases you may get one or two of these bays, maximum. This case is very similar in appearance to this other one, but they have one difference that may prove to be a huge factor. They both have four exposed 5.25″ bays, but one has two exposed 3.5″ bays while the other only has one. If a user had a floppy drive and the 9-in-1 card reader, they would either have to choose to install only one, or use an adaptor and take up one of their 5.25″ bays.

Internal bays are generally reserved for hard drives, and systems with multiple drives require the necessary space.
3. Cooling

Cooling is a critical feature to consider when selecting a computer case. High end systems can generate a good deal of heat, and the case needs to be adequately cooled to keep the system running and stable.

The basic configuration for case cooling involves having one intake fan on the lower portion of the front surface, and one exhaust fan higher up on the rear surface. This allows cooler air to be drawn in, passed over the various heat generating components, and exhausted out the back. There are many other cooling configurations available that may provide improvements in terms of cooling performance and noise.

One way to decrease noise, and perhaps move more air, is for a case to use 120mm (4″) fans instead of the usual 80mm (3″) fans, as larger fans don’t need to spin as fast to push the same volume of air. This A-Top Z-Alien utilizes a 120mm exhaust fan that also features another key feature to good cooling. The fan grill is very open, meaning that there will be minimal resistance to air flow and reduced noise as the air rushes past it. Many fan grills are made from perforating the case’s sheet metal, and they do not provide enough open area for good airflow.

Another approach to better cooling is to throw more fans at the heat. This Matrix case adds another fan to the side panel which will draw cool air in right on top of the processor and video card, two of the hotter items in a system. Other cases will add an exhaust fan to the top of the case, which pushes the heat out just like a chimney.

No matter the approach, cooling is one area that needs close consideration when it comes to cases intended for today’s high powered systems.
4. Installation Features

Installing a system into a case can be a time consuming affair, which can become annoying to those who find themselves in a continuous cycle of upgrading. Many cases now include convenient features to make installation much simpler, and far less time consuming

Some of these convenient installation features include a removable motherboard tray, removable drive cages, tool-less expansion card mounts, tool-less side panels, and tool-less drive rail systems. Being able to remove the motherboard tray and drive cage makes it easier to work on those specific areas in the open, and having a tool-less system for mounting drives or cards means there is no need for screws or a screw driver. Definitely time savers!

Although the listing on the Computer Geeks site does not specify it, this X-Blade ATX case features both a removable drive cage and tool-less drive rail system, according to this review.
5. Convenience Items

It is not enough for a case to house a computer system any more, it now needs to multi-task. Having regularly used connections on the front or top of the case is one common convenience feature that many people look for. Cases such as this A-Top Z-Alien model let users forget about the annoyance of reaching around the back of their case to plug things in, as USB, Firewire, headphone and microphone jacks are located on the top.

Other cases are available that take convenience to another level by including clocks, digital thermometers that monitor specific components, and fan controllers to help maintain a healthy balance between noise and cooling performance.
6. Style

A few years ago cases only came in one color and one basic style. plain beige boxes. If you’re nostalgic for the olden days of computer cases, Computer Geeks still has one for sale in this style, the KG-200. But cases now come in styles from mild to wild, and in a whole rainbow of colors. Some have large windows in the side panel to show off the case’s insides, some include special lighting effects, and some have appearances that might scare the kids. At this point there seems to be few limits in case design, but there are always classically styled cases in updated color schemes for those who want something modern looking, but nothing too intense.
7. Power Supply
Many cases are sold with a power supply included, but this power supply might not be the correct one for the system to be installed inside of it. An adequate power supply needs to be chosen to meet the demands of the system, and this may very well mean buying an additional power supply to replace the one included, or selecting a different case with a more appropriately sized power supply.For example, someone may decide their high end gaming system would go well in this black ATX case, but the included 300W power supply may not be strong enough for a top notch graphics card, multiple drives, water cooling, and other power hungry peripherals that might be installed.
Final Words
There are many factors that go into selecting an adequate case for a computer system, including the seven mentioned above. What may wind up being the most important factor was not discussed, but can hopefully be addressed by balancing the importance of these factors. price. Computer cases can cost anywhere from several dollars to several hundred dollars, meaning that a tight budget may decide which of the other features is really all that important.

Keyboard Tricks / Create Symbols ® ™ © ♥

2013-01-30T03:27:00.000-08:00

Some of the Keyboard Tricks Affordable Child Care

Create the ® ™ © ♥ ♦♣•◘○♫☼►◄↕‼¶§☺▬↨↑↓→←∟↔▲▼ !"#$%&'()*+,- and many more

Alt + 0176 = °

Alt + 0174 = ®

Alt + 0153 = ™

Alt + 0169= ©

Alt + 0188 = ¼

Alt +0189= ½

Alt + 0187 = »

Alt + 0178=²

Alt + 0177 = ±

Alt + 0166 = ¦

Alt + 0155 = ›

Alt + 0154 = š

Alt + 0152 = ˜

Alt + 0151 = —

Alt + 0150 = –

Alt + 0149 = •

Alt + 0148 = ”

ALT + 3 = ♥

ALT + 14 = ♫

ALT + 1 = ☺

ALT + 15 = ☼

Alt + 1 = ☺

Alt + 2 = ☻

Alt + 3 = ♥

Alt + 4 = ♦

Alt + 5 = ♣

Alt + 6 = ♠

Alt + 7 = •

Alt + 8 = 8

Alt + 9 = ○

Alt + 10 = ◙

Alt + 11 = ♂

Alt + 12 = ♀

Alt + 13 = ♪

Alt + 14 = ♫

Alt + 15 = ☼

Alt + 16 = ►

Alt + 17 = ◄

Alt + 18 = ↕

Alt + 19 = ‼

Alt + ☻21 =

You can go all the way up to 39.

PC Security Advice

2011-08-02T16:33:00.001-07:00

Don’t fall for the temptation to reuse passwords.

Otherwise, if a hacker manages to guess or steal one of your passwords, he could get access to many of your accounts. He could test your password at different sites, hoping that you use the same password for many or all of the different accounts you have set up. This is much easier to do than you might think.

You are probably much more careful with your PayPal and bank passwords than you are with say your email and social networking passwords. But, even if you are equally careful with all passwords, a site that suffers a data breach might accidentally leak one of your passwords. So if you use the same password across many sites, you are putting yourself at unnecessary risk.

It is not even enough to make minor variations.

Hackers test minor variations of stolen passwords, too. Don’t forget that most hackers are good programmers, and they can easily write computer programs that try large numbers of minor variations of a password – automatically. So just adding different digits to a core password is not enough.

Don’t fall for the temptation to reuse passwords.

It is not even enough to make minor variations.

Online security tips.

Use a current Web browser.

Avoid downloading programs from unknown sources.

Do not use your Social Security number as a username or password. Change your usernames and passwords regularly and use combinations of letters, numbers, and "special characters" such as "pound" (#) and "at" (@) signs. Do not use your online brokerage password as a password for other online accounts.

If your current Wells Fargo Advisors username or password is your Social Security number, change it by following these directions:

Click on the Customer Service tab.

Select Change Username or Change Password.

Protect your online passwords. Don't write them down or share them with anyone.

Protect your answers to security questions. Select questions and provide answers that are easy for you to remember but hard for anyone else to guess. Do not write down your security questions or answers or share them with anyone. If you have selected security questions on other websites, avoid using the same questions to protect your Wells Fargo Advisors online account. Please note that we will never ask you to provide answers to your security questions via email.

Use secure websites for transactions and shopping. Shop with merchants you know and trust. Make sure Internet purchases are secured with encryption to protect your account information. Look for "secure transaction" symbols like a lock symbol in the lower right-hand corner of your Web browser window or "https://…" in the address bar of the website. The "s" indicates "secured" and means the webpage uses encryption.

Always log off from any website after making a purchase with your credit or debit card. If you cannot log off, shut down your browser to prevent unauthorized access to your account information.

Close your browser when you're not using the internet.

Protecting your Google Account

Some tips to help keep your Google account safe:

Always sign out when you've finished reading your mail.

Only select Stay signed in if you're signing in from a personal computer.

Clear forms, passwords, cache and cookies in your browser on a regular basis - especially on a public computer.

Keep secrets! Never tell anyone your password or your secret question and answer; if you do tell someone, change it as soon as possible.

Choose a good password and security question and answer.

Do not write this information down anywhere

Never send this information by email

Never re-use your Google Accounts password for an account on another website

Periodically change your password and your security question and answer

Download the free Google Pack, which includes Mozilla's Firefox browser as well as anti-virus and anti-spyware utilities that can help to keep your computer safe.

Never give out your password after following a link sent to you in an email. Access the Google product directly by typing it's URL directly in browser's address bar.

What is Phishing, Facts You Should Know

2011-08-02T16:32:00.000-07:00

How can I identify a phishing web site?

If you receive an email (or instant message) from someone you don't know directing you to sign in to a web site, be careful! You may have received a phishing email with links to a phishing web site. A phishing web site (sometimes called a "spoofed" site) tries to steal your account password or other confidential information by tricking you into believing you're on a legitimate web site. You can even land on a phishing site by mistyping a URL (web address).

Is that web site legitimate? Don't be fooled by a site that looks real. It's easy for phishers to create web sites that look like the genuine article, complete with the logos and other graphics of a trusted web site.
Important: If you're at all unsure about a web site, do not sign in. The safest thing to do is to close and then reopen your browser, and then type the URL into your browser's Address bar. Typing the correct URL is the best way to be sure you're not redirected to a spoofed site.
Phishers are becoming more and more sophisticated in designing their phony web sites. There's no surefire way to know if you're on a phishing site, but here's some hints that can help you distinguish a real web site from a phishing site.

Check the web address
Just because the address looks OK, don't assume you're on a legitimate site. Look in your browser's Address bar for these signs that you may be on a phishing site:

I
ncorrect company name.
Often the web address of a phishing site looks correct, but actually contains a common misspelling of the company name or a character or symbol before or after the company name. Look out for tricks such as substituting the number "1" for the letter "l" in a web address (for example, www.paypa1.com instead of www.paypal.com).
http:// at the start of the address on Yahoo! sign-in pages. Check the web site address for any Yahoo! sign-in page. A legitimate Yahoo! sign-in page address starts with "https://." Look for the letter "s" following "http."
Missing slash. To verify that you're on a legitimate Yahoo! site, make sure a forward slash (" / ") appears after "yahoo.com" in the Address bar -- like these examples:

For example, "http://www.yahoo.com:login&mode=secure" is a fake web site address.

Important: A legitimate Yahoo! sign-in page never starts with"http://geocities.yahoo.com." If you land on a GeoCities page with a Yahoo! sign-in box, report it as a phishing web site immediately.

Be leery of pop-ups
Be careful if you're sent to a web site that first displays a pop-up window asking you to enter your user name and password. Phishing scams may direct you to a legitimate web site, but then use a pop-up to gain your account information.

Give a fake password
If you not sure if a site is authentic, don't use your real password to sign in. If you enter a fake password and appear to be signed in, you're likely on a phishing site. Do not enter any more information; close your browser. Keep in mind, though, that some phishing sites automatically display an error message regardless of the password you enter. So, just because your fake password is rejected, don't assume the site is legitimate.

Look for your sign-in seal when you sign in to Yahoo!
A sign-in seal is a secret message or image that you select to display in your Yahoo! sign-in box to help protect your account from phishers. Because the sign-in seal is secret between your computer and Yahoo!, you can be sure you're on a legitimate Yahoo! site each time use that computer to sign in to Yahoo!. Just look for the custom text or image you set up. If it's not there, you might have landed on a phishing site. Creating a sign-in seal is fast and easy.

Other web sites, such as those for banks and other financial institutions, may offer a similar feature to help protect you against phishing scams.

Use a web browser with anti-phishing detection
Both Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox web browsers have free add-ons (or "plug-ins") that can help you detect phishing sites.

Be wary of other methods to identify a legitimate site
Some methods used to indicate a safe site can't always be trusted. A small unbroken key or locked padlock at the bottom of your browser is not a reliable indicator of a legitimate web site. Just because there's a key or lock and the security certificate looks authentic, don't assume the site is legitimate.

I learned to not trust URL’s that look real. They make look like the real website. However they are fake.

Phishing Example #1

New Phishing E-mail Example #2

From: no_reply@emailonline.chase.com
Subject: Account Status

Dear Chase OnlineSM Customer,
Due to recent activity on your account, we have issued the following security requirements. For your security, we have temporarily prevented access to your account. Chase safeguards your account when there is a possibility that someone other than you tried to sign on. You may be getting this message because you signed in from a different location or device. If this is the case, your access may be restored when you return to your normal sign on method. For immediate access, you are required to follow the intruction below to confirm your account in order to secure your personal account informations.

Click To Confirm Your Account

Regards,Carter Franke
Chief Marketing Officer
CardMember Services

New Phishing E-mail Example #3

Subject: Security Check From Chase
From: Chase@emailinfo.chase.com
Date: Mon, 17 Jan 2011 16:43:56 -0500

Dear Valued JPMorgan Chase Customer,

Due to a recent security check on JPMorgan Chase online banking on 15th We require you to confirm your details and Re-activate your account

Re-activate now
Failure to do this within 24hrs will lead to access suspension
Sorry for the inconvienence

Regards
JPMorgan Chase Online Banking
Issued for USA use only | JPMorgan Chase Bank plc 2011

New Phishing E-mail Example #4

From: Chase Online
Sent: Mon, Jan 17, 2011 4:34 am
Subject: Account Maintenance

Dear client,
This is your official notification that the service(s) listed below will be deactivated and deleted if your profile is not verified immediately.
SERVICE: Chase Online and Bill Pay services.
EXPIRATION: January 20, 2011
What you need to do:

1. Log in to your account at www.Chase.com, by clicking the URL.
2. Enter your user ID and Password (that you selected during the online enrollment process).

Please do not reply to this message. For questions, please call Customer Service at the number on the back of your card. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Sincerely,

Carter Franke
Chief Marketing Officer

New Phishing E-mail Example #5

From: Chase Online
Subject: Message Alerts : Online Banking Deactivated
To:
Date: Monday, January 17, 2011, 2:36 PM

Chase Bank Online® Department Notice
You have received this email because you or someone had used your account from different locations.
For security purpose, we are required to open an investigation into this matter.

In order to safeguard your account, we require that you confirm your banking details.
To help speed up this process, please access the following link so we can complete the verification of your Chase Online® Banking Account registration information :
To get started, please click the link below:
https://chaseonline.chase.com/chaseonline/logon/sso_logon.jsp
Please Note:
If we do no receive the appropriate account verification within 48 hours, then we will assume this Chase Bank account is fraudulent and will be suspended. The purpose of this verification is to ensure that your bank account has not been fraudulently used and to combat the fraud from our community.

Regards,
Chase Bank - Chase Online® Banking Department

New Text Message Example #6

SMS Text Message from: jpmorgan@mail.tmail.com//Jpmorgan prepaid alert. call 212-924-4441

Please note the description provided is an indicator of the type of message, but may vary slightly in content and telephone number.

Security Advice
Fraudulent E-mail Examples
The following are examples of e-mail that customers have reported receiving. Please remember these are not legitimate messages and should not be responded to.

Reminder: Chase will never ask for your PIN or password over the telephone, by text message or by e-mail.

PLEASE NOTE: In addition to e-mail, criminals are now using pop-up windows to request your confidential information. See New Phishing Example #1 below.

New Phishing Example #1

New Phishing E-mail Example #2

New Phishing E-mail Example #3

Subject: Security Check From Chase
From: Chase@emailinfo.chase.com
Date: Mon, 17 Jan 2011 16:43:56 -0500

Dear Valued JPMorgan Chase Customer,

Due to a recent security check on JPMorgan Chase online banking on 15th We require you to confirm your details and Re-activate your account

Re-activate now

Failure to do this within 24hrs will lead to access suspension
Sorry for the inconvienence

Regards
JPMorgan Chase Online Banking
Issued for USA use only | JPMorgan Chase Bank plc 2011

New Phishing E-mail Example #4

New Phishing E-mail Example #5

New Text Message Example #6

New Phishing Example #1

New Phishing E-mail Example #2

New Phishing E-mail Example #3

Subject: Security Check From Chase
From: Chase@emailinfo.chase.com
Date: Mon, 17 Jan 2011 16:43:56 -0500

Dear Valued JPMorgan Chase Customer,

Due to a recent security check on JPMorgan Chase online banking on 15th We require you to confirm your details and Re-activate your account

Re-activate now

Failure to do this within 24hrs will lead to access suspension
Sorry for the inconvienence

Regards
JPMorgan Chase Online Banking
Issued for USA use only | JPMorgan Chase Bank plc 2011

New Phishing E-mail Example #4

New Phishing E-mail Example #5

New Text Message Example #6

How to Format a Hard Drive in Mac OS X

2011-07-25T15:44:00.000-07:00

1. Open the system drive, usually titled "Macintosh HD." Open Applications, then Utilities and double click the "Disk Utility" program to open it. A window will open giving a list of all the drives currently mounted on the computer

2. Select the disk that needs to be formatted on the left. It is not possible to format the startup disk unless the system has booted from the Install Disk. It is important to note that formatting the startup disk will permanently erase the data stored on the disk. If you are planning on erasing the startup disk, back up all important files and applications.

3. Click on the "Erase" tab to the right of the list of drives. The window will now display the options for erasing the hard drive and formatting it to work on the Macintosh computer.

4. Select the Volume Format from the pop-up list. In most cases it's best to leave it at "Mac OS Extended (Journaled)" as this is the default. This setting is the best option for running Mac OS X. If there are other requirements for the disk, then select the format that best suits your needs. If you have questions about the formats, refer to the Apple user's manual.

5. Name the hard drive. Type a name for the disk in the field where it asks for the name. This name will always appear when the disk is mounted on a Macintosh computer.

6. Click the erase button. A window will open asking to verify the erase procedure. Click the erase button in this window to start the process of erasing the disk. Once the process is complete, the drive will appear with the name it was given on the left side of the window with the list of drives and on the desktop of the Macintosh computer.

How to Create/Remove Account Mac OS X

2011-07-25T15:43:00.000-07:00

This Will Teach you how to create/remove account in Mac OS X

1. Click the APPLE Logo and Click on System Preferences and Locate Accounts

2 . From the Accounts Window Click on the "+" to add an account

Note: if the "Pad Lock is Lock Unlock it first"

3. Choose the type of account from the New Account pop-up menu:

Administrator: An administrator can create and delete accounts, install software, change system settings, and change the settings of other users.

Standard: A regular user account. A standard user can only install software for the user account, can’t make changes to locked system preferences, or create accounts.

Managed with Parental Controls: An account that has limited privileges which are managed by Parental Controls.

Sharing Only: Can only access files in a specified location. Cannot change files on the computer or log in at the login window.

Group: An account that consists of selected users

4. Enter the user’s name.

5. If you don’t want to use the short name created automatically, type a new short name.

Note: After the account is created, you won’t be able to change the short name.

6. Enter a password for the user in the Password field, and then enter it again in the Verify field.

7. Enter a hint for the password in the Password Hint field.

8. If you concerned about security and want the user’s home folder to be encrypted, select the “Turn on FileVault protection” checkbox

9. Click Create Account.

In Removing an Account Highlight the account that you want to remove and "-" to remove the account

How to Disable Automatic Log in, Mac OS X

2011-07-25T15:41:00.000-07:00

This will teach you on how To require all users to log in to the computer:

1. Choose Apple menu > System Preferences, and click Accounts.

2. If settings are dimmed, click the lock icon and type an administrator name and password.

3. Click Login Options

4. Choose Disabled from the “Automatically log in as” pop-up menu.

5. Select the login window options

- To have users select an account from a list in the login window, select the “List of users” checkbox.

- To require users to type their user account name and password, select the “Name and password”

How to Set up Any Printer on Mac OSX

2011-07-25T15:37:00.000-07:00

1. Plug the USB cable on the printer and to your Mac (if you have not done yet). Launch System Preferences and select Print & Fax.

2. Click + to add the printer

3. Select the printer and click the Print Using and select you printer on the list. Then click Add to create the printer object.

4. Once the printer is added, you can close the System Preferences and you are ready to print.

XP Shortcuts

2011-07-25T15:31:00.000-07:00

Why shortcuts? Because someone thought when XP was designed(all Microsoft products have them and they are not the only), to make thing even easier. They are fast and very helpful.

I'm going to tell you about copy or cut/paste shortcuts, but the ones that not many know about. here is a list:

These are some of the most used:

Start + M: Minimizes all open windows
Start + Shift + M: Maximizes All Windows
Start + E: Runs Windows Explorer
Start + R: Open the RUN Dialog Box
Start + F: Open the Search Results Dialog box
Start + CTRL + F: Opens the Search Results-Computer dialog Box (if the
computer is connected to a network)
Start + Pause (Break): Opens the System Properties Dialog Box
Start+U+U: Shutdown(the fastest if you don't have a specific key for this)
Other type of shortcuts:

Microsoft Natural Keyboard Keys:
Windows Logo: Start menu
Windows Logo + R: Run dialog box
Windows Logo + M: Minimize all
SHIFT + Windows Logo+M: Undo minimize all
Windows Logo + F1: Help
Windows Logo + E: Windows Explorer
Windows Logo + F: Find files or folders
Windows Logo + D: Minimizes all open windows and displays the desktop
CTRL + Windows Logo + F: Find computer
CTRL + Windows Logo + TAB: Moves focus from Start, to the Quick Launch
toolbar, to the system tray (use RIGHT ARROW or LEFT ARROW to move
focus to items on the Quick Launch toolbar and the system tray)
Windows Logo + TAB: Cycle through taskbar buttons
Windows Logo + Break: System Properties dialog box
Application key: Displays a shortcut menu for the selected item

Microsoft Natural Keyboard with IntelliType Software Installed:
Windows Logo + L: Log off Windows
Windows Logo + P: Starts Print Manager
Windows Logo + C: Opens Control Panel
Windows Logo + V: Starts Clipboard
Windows Logo + K: Opens Keyboard Properties dialog box
Windows Logo + I: Opens Mouse Properties dialog box
Windows Logo + A: Starts Accessibility Options (if installed)
Windows Logo + SPACEBAR: Displays the list of Microsoft IntelliType
shortcut keys
Windows Logo + S: Toggles CAPS LOCK on and off

Google Chrome Tips On Keyboard Shortcuts

2011-07-25T14:37:00.000-07:00

Google Chrome offers some tips on keyboard shortcut for easy navigation and operation. The following keyboard hotkeys or accelerators are the lists of common and useful shortcuts which built intoGoogle Chrome browser.

Google Chrome Shortcut

CTRL + SHIFT + N : automatically opens up a Chrome ‘incognito’ window which allows you to surf on a PC without leaving behind any digital footprints.

SHIFT + Escape: allows for fast access to Chrome’s task Manager utility that allows you to nix browser processes that have gone awry.

CTRL + SHIFT + T: will open recently closed browser tabs.

Window And Tab Shortcuts:

Ctrl+N – Open a new window
Ctrl+Shift+N – Open a new window in incognito mode
Press Ctrl,and click a link – Open link in a new tab
Press Shift, and click a link – Open link in a new window
Alt+F4 - Close current window
Ctrl+T - Open a new tab
Ctrl+Shift+T – Reopen the last tab you’ve closed. Google Chrome remembers the last 10 tabs you’ve closed.
Drag link to tab – Open link in specified tab
Drag link to space between tabs – Open link in a new tab in the specified position on the tab strip
Ctrl+1 through Ctrl+8 – Switch to the tab at the specified position number. The number you press represents a position on the tab strip.
Ctrl+9 – Switch to the last tab
Ctrl+Tab or Ctrl+PgDown – Switch to the next tab
Ctrl+Shift+Tab or Ctrl+PgUp – Switch to the previous tab
Ctrl+W or Ctrl+F4 – Close current tab or pop-up
Alt+Home – Open your homepage
Ctrl+O, then select file – Open a file from your computer in Google Chrome

Shortcuts To Open Google Chrome Features:

Ctrl+B – Toggle bookmarks bar on and off
Ctrl+H – View the History page
Ctrl+J – View the Downloads page
Shift+Escape – View the Task manager

Webpage Shortcuts:

Ctrl+P – Print your current page
F5 – Reload current page
Esc – Stop page loading
Ctrl+F5 or Shift+F5 – Reload current page, ignoring cached content
Press Alt, and click a link – Download link
Ctrl+F – Open find-in-page box
Ctrl+G or F3 – Find next match for your input in the find-in-page box
Ctrl+Shift+G or Shift+F3 – Find previous match for your input in the find-in-page box
Ctrl+U – View source
Drag link to bookmarks bar – Bookmark the link
Ctrl+D – Bookmark your current webpage
Ctrl++ – Make text larger
Ctrl+- – Make text smaller
Ctrl+0 – Return to normal text size

Text shortcuts:

Highlight content, then press Ctrl+C – Copy content to the clipboard
Place your cursor in a text field, then press Ctrl+V or Shift+Insert – Paste current content from the clipboard
Place your cursor in a text field, then press Ctrl+Shift+V – Paste current content from the clipboard without formatting
Highlight content in a text field, then press Ctrl+X or Shift+Delete – Delete the content and copy it to the clipboard

Android Password Re-set

2011-07-22T17:03:00.000-07:00

Go to Menu|Settings|Applications|Manage applications
Look for “Google Apps“. Select it.
Press “clear data“
Once you did that, Android ask you (new notification fter a while) to enter your google id/password (in the same way when you started it up for the first time after purchase)

MAC Password Re-set

2011-07-22T16:56:00.000-07:00

You've lost your account password, you don't have a system CD on hand, and you didn't enable root. You have no other way to log into that machine and you need access to the files on that machine right now.

Fortunately, there's a five minute fix -- all it takes is a little digging into the command line, and you're on your way. We got this hint from a technician who found himself in the deep end while trying to recoverdata from a PowerBook on extremely short notice.

My problem was this: I had no MacOS X CD, no user password, and root wasn't enabled.
What I had was this: A MacOS X Laptop that automatically logged in as an administrative user, but prompted me to enter a password whenever I attempted to perform an administrative task. A password I didn't have.
I needed to either reset the password on the logged in account, or enable root access and authenticate as that user. The solution:
Reboot the machine into single user mode (CMD+S on boot)

Mount the root file system as read/write (mount -uw /)

Edit the SUDOERS file (visudo)

Change all occurences of "(ALL) ALL" to "NOPASSWD: ALL" (Note: You'll need to know your way around the text editor vi -- check out the vi tutorial in MacOS X Command Line 101 for more. -TMO)

Save the SUDOERS file and reboot (ESC-w, ESC-q, 'reboot')

Open a terminal and execute the command 'sudo passwd root'

Voila! I was able to change the root password without being prompted for any other password. This done, I could authenticate as root and do anything I wanted on the box.

Here's the kicker -- this guy is a Windows technician. Who'd have thunk it?

So there's one method, but we discovered this only works if you have an account that automatically logs itself in when you boot the Mac. We're not all so lucky. What to do? We'll one-up this method with a way that works for any user account.

First, you'll need to reboot into single-user mode. This boots your Mac into a text-only mode (you might be familiar with this experience if you've ever had to run fsck). You'll see instructions on how to run the file system check -- fsck -- and then a command prompt. Enter the command mount -uw / so that we can make changes to the disk.
Next, you need to be able to make changes to the users' accounts on your Mac in order to reset your password, and we'll do that with NetInfo. Start NetInfo by typing Systemstarter. You'll see a pile of messages appearing, which might seem familiar to you if you've ever watched the startup progress bar. When you see the message System started. and a stationary cursor, hit Return. You'll see the shell prompt appear again.
Now that NetInfo is running, we can change our lost password. If you don't know the short username for your account (for example, 'jane' instead of 'Jane Doe'), you'll need that - enter the commandniutil -list . /users and hit Return, to see the names of the accounts on your Mac.
Now that you know the name of the account you want to use, enter the command passwd user -- where user is the short name of the account you're changing. You'll be told that you're changing the password for user and asked to enter it twice. Do this, being careful with your typing: you won't see the characters you're typing, or stars. Watch that Caps Lock key, while you're at it.
Now type reboot and press Return once more to reboot your Mac. You should now have no problem logging in.

There you have it -- two really quick ways to get back into your machine when you're in a pinch. Now don't forget it this time!

The Mac Observer Spin:

On to the dark side of this silver-lined cloud. As the Windows tech noted in his blog entry, no system is secure when you have physical access to it. That's an old adage in the computer industry, and it holds just as true today as it did when security was first becoming an issue umpteen years ago. These two workarounds we are publishing can help you get into a system from which you have been locked out, but they can also help a bad guy get into your system.

Mac OS X is a very solid OS with a security record that Microserfs dream about in their fitful and guilt-ridden nights. It's nigh on impossible (at least right now) for someone to gain control of your system remotely, but if they have access to the box itself (or the notebook), and they are determined to do so, they can get your files. Heck, even starting up a Mac in FireWire Target Mode is going to let someone have your system, and if they have a Mac OS X CD, they can just reset the password through the utility included on that CD. So, if you want your system to be secure, mind who has access to it.

iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Password Re-Set

2011-07-22T16:54:00.000-07:00

Here's some methods to reset the password without the install disc:

1. boot computer and hold the "apple" key and the "s" key.

2. wait for terminal show

3. release keys

4. type without the quotes: "/sbin/mount -uaw"

5. press enter

6. type without the quotes: "rm /var/db/.applesetupdone

7. press enter

8. type without the quotes: "reboot"

9. press enter

This will let you create a new admin account when you reboot your computer.

Also, without the discs, look at Mac OS X Tip - No Password, No Root, No CD? No Problem.

Here is a way to get around not knowing the admin password on Macs.

To reset your OS X password without an OS X CD you need to enter terminal and create a new admin account:

1. Reboot

2. Hold apple + s down after you hear the chime.

3. When you get text prompt enter in these terminal commands to create a brand new admin account (hitting return after each line):

* mount -uw /

* rm /var/db/.AppleSetupDone

* shutdown -h now

4. After rebooting you should have a brand new admin account. When you login as the new admin you can simply delete the old one and you’re good to go again!

Free Windows 7 Password Reset & Recovery Tool

2011-07-22T16:48:00.000-07:00

f you have been using a computer for any amount of time you have no doubt forgotten a Windows 7 password or two and have had to have it reset or recovered from you administrator at the office. With the increase of security on home computers Windows 7 now by default requires you to have a Windows password for the administrator account. If you forget or lose this at home there is no help desk to call unless you have a relative that does computer work, which is what most of my “extended family” does when something happens. In this case you are on you own, unless you want to pay a premium price to one of the “geek squad” out there to take care of it for you. Instead of bothering your second cousin on your sister in laws side of the family or paying out the nose from some “expert” that couldn’t work anywhere but a big box store for technology, I will walk you through how to reset your Windows 7 password for free.

This utility is free but requires you to be able to make a bootable disk or USB. I’ll go through the utility and post instructions with a video.

Offline NT Password & Registry Editor
http://pogostick.net/~pnh/ntpasswd/

This one has been around for awhile as it will work on versions of Windows all the way back to NT. It currently supports Windows NT, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, and Windows Server 2008 for reset and also has a registry editor with utilities for other things. It works by booting from a CD that you create on another system or create before you forget your login!

In testing I had some issues in changing a lost Windows 7 password, but I was able to clear the users Windows password every time. I would recommend clearing the password instead of trying to change it on Windows 7 at least. That way on reboot Windows 7 will just login as that user and you can then set a new password through the windows user interface by selecting CTRL-ALT-DEL and then change password.

Create a bootable CD from http://pogostick.net/~pnh/ntpasswd/

Boot from the Bootable CD

First we select the disk where the windows system partition resides. In the case of this demo it is the number 2 dislk, you can see the disks listed in the output. I’m going to enter 2 and hit Enter

The next choice is to select the PATH to the windows system directory and registry. The program will find what it thinks is the correct path and put it in for default. Unless you know for sure this isn’t correct just hit Enter to accept the found path.

Next you will choose what part of the registry you want to work with, in this case we are going to go with “Password Reset” which is the SAM. For this we select 1 and hit Enter

Now you will select “Edit User Data and Passwords” by typing 1 and Enter

Finally! We now see a list of the users on this machine and whether they are an ADMIN or not. Type in the user name you want to reset, in this case it is WS Training and hit Enter

You will now see all the information about this account that is in the SAM. You have a few options here like including:
Clear User Password – Always works for me
Edit User Password – I have had iffy success with this
Promote User – Makes them an administrator account
Unlock & Enable User Account – In case you have locked out or disabled the account

In this instance I am going to choose 1 for “Clear User Password” and hit Enter

You should see the message Password Cleared! and then it will ask if there is another user to reset. If your done with recovery at this point then enter ! and hit Enter to quit.

Now you have to work your way out of the program just the way you came in. Hit q to quit out and hit Enter

The program now lists the files that have changed and if it should make the changes permanent. It is important to note that at this point you have been working with a copy of the account data and once you complete this step it will be saved to disk permanently. Click Y and Enter

You should see a ***Edit Complete*** message to show that the password reset has been saved and then you can choose to run the program again or exit by hitting Enter.

Now you can restart your machine and let it boot into the OS. You should be able to go straight to your desktop for the user that you removed the security for! Congratulations on recovering your Windows 7 password and not having to reinstall your OS and lose your data. You can now set your password again by hitting CTRL-ALT-DEL and choosing Change Password. In your old password just leave it blank, and fill in your new password in the two text spots, then click OK.

Hard drive Recovery

2011-07-22T16:41:00.000-07:00

Just imagine this: you've been working on that important paper for the past 2 weeks, and you are just about to finish it. The deadline is in a few days. You save your document, go for a coffee and when you get back, your screen is black. Your computer rebooted itself automatically and is now stuck in the bootup process with a message similar to this: No boot device, please insert a bootable media. You try to restart your computer a few times, but it does not fix your problem. At this point, it's important do stay calm, don't PANIC! There may hope yet!

First, you'll have to make sure that your problem isn't related to something else then the hard drive. The failure of your hard disk controller may also be causing this. You could always try to switch your hard drive from IDE1 to IDE2 and see if it fixes your problem. If it's not, remove the hard drive from your system, and bring it with you to a friend's house. If it still doesn't work over there, then you know what the problem is.

The only solution to your problem now is to use a data recovery software, like PC Inspector File recovery. This application is completely free, and it works beautifully. It helped me once or twice in the past few years. Don't make yourself any illusion, it's not perfect, and doesn't work all the time (Like any other hard drive recovery utility). Sometimes, data cannot be recovered out of a broken hard drive, unless you are ready to take your disk to a specialized recovery shop and pay 1000's of dollars to have your data recovered.

2011-07-22T16:20:00.003-07:00

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