Computer Repair Guide

How to Share Files Between Different Users In Windows

2011-12-27T22:46:00.000+03:00

Sometimes a file needs to be used by different users of a computer. This would not be possible if a user is not administrator in the computer or when there are other many user accounts in the computer. These works well with files like documents, music, photos etc,etc. You will need to move the shared file to shared documents folder in my computer.

How to share a file.

1.Open the folder containing the file you want to share.

2.Go to my computer :::>Shared Documents

3.Let the 2 folders share your screen by being visible and not overlapping.

4. Click and drag the file you want to share from its folder to shared document folder. Your file will be moved without copying. You can copy if you wish.

5.Open your file from My computer:::>Shared Documents folder

How to do Data Recovery

2011-11-24T09:01:00.002+03:00

You may need to recover data in 2 different cases - when there is a hard disk drive (HDD) failure or files have been deleted accidentally. If there is a mechanical failure in the hard disk, recovering data may not be possible, unless the mechanical problem is fixed.

How to fix it:

1. Connect the problematic hard drive to a working computer as a secondary drive (slave). Start the computer and check if the drive is recognized during the POST. If it does not show up, there could be a mechanical problem in the hard drive, which has to be fixed first.

2. Download PC Inspector File Recovery software on the master drive, and run the software. While it usually fixes most problems, it may not work in a few cases.

Another free utility for recovering data from damaged FAT, FAT32 and NTFS partitions is the bootable Knoppix Linux distribution CD.
There are other hard drive recovery software for download from the internet.

If you realize that you have accidentally deleted data from your computer.

1. Check the Recycle Bin. Unless you have emptied your recycle bin , the deleted file will be present and restoring it is simple. You can choose to undelete a single file or multiple files at a time. Hard drive recovery software are not needed to do the data recovery.

2. If the recycle bin has been emptied and you have not written any more data on the hard disk drive, you can recover the file using hard drive recovery solutions like data recovery softwares.

When you delete a file, the file remains on the hard disk, only the record on the MFT (Master FAT Table) marks the file storage location as free. This "free" space is overwritten the next time a file is written onto the hard disk.

Similarly if a partition is accidentally deleted, do not create a new partition.

Copying a large file takes a long time since data is written on the hard disk, while deleting a file takes a much shorter time, since only the MFT is modified. Also do not defragment the hard disk, since data recovery will be difficult.

3.Read Tutorial to recover data from a NTFS partition or Tutorial to recover data from a FAT partition ; you will need a hex editor, data recovery software or other hard drive recovery solutions.

How to Share Internet between computers or laptops

2011-11-23T15:56:00.000+03:00

A broadband connection can be shared between 2 or more computers using a router . Though wireless connections are becoming popular, a wired connection is usually more secure and faster. The router used for a wired connection is also cheaper. The WAN or internet port of the router is connected to the cable/ADSL modem. The computers on the network are connected to the LAN port. Though most routers can dynamically assign an IP address, for a small network, static IP addresses should be allotted to the computers minimize errors.

How to share and fix an internet connection between 2 computers :

1. Before changing the computer settings, switch off the modem and router. Then switch on the modem first, then switch on the router. Ensure that the modem signals are synchronous. Reboot your computers and check the internet connection.

2. Connect the first computer directly to the internet through the modem. If you can connect without any problem, there is a problem with the router or cable. Try interchanging the cable, to isolate the problem.

3. Repeat step 2 with the other computers in the network

4. If there is no problem with the direct computer internet connection, there could be a problem with the router settings or the cable connecting the router and modem. Try replacing the cable between the modem and router.

5. If the internet connection still does not work, connect the router to the first computer. Go to the router configuration setting . Ensure that the router is set to use the correct protocol for connecting to the modem. The protocol could vary according to ISP. Also check the user name, password and IP settings.

6. Uninstall the router configuration software and reinstall it again. If you can share files between the 2 computers using network neighborhood, the networking feature of the router is working properly. If not, use the Network Setup Wizard to reinstall the computers on the network.

Computer

2011-11-18T23:16:00.004+03:00

A personal computer (PC) is a desktop device performing office work and is designed to be used by one person at a time. When a computer is used by other computers on the network, it is known as a server. The computer network are inter networked to form the internet.

History of PC

Original component set was popularized by Apple and IBM consists of several components connected by cables

Transportable computer was popularized by Osborne and Compaq contains the computer components housed in one transportable unit.

The newest of PC is battery powered and can fit in briefcase because of advancing micro technology the size of computer has little to do with its capability. These battery powered PC have different names according to their nature of functions. There is laptop, notebook, tablets, smart phones, eBook gadgets, iPad etc

Terms Used in Computer Description

2011-11-18T23:03:00.001+03:00

There are several terms used to describe computer parts. These are:

Software

These are invisible components installed in computer memory. They are made up of instructions of how a computer should execute commands when a user input something.

They are software’s like operating systems (windows, linux, mac etc) and application software’s (microsoft word, exel, skype, explorer, firefox, google chrome, antiviruses, video games)

Hardware

These are parts of computer which are visible and physically touchable. These components are mouse, screen, keyboard, printer, CPU, memory, Storage and modems.

Mouse. It is used with windows operating system as an interface to pin point where to go or input. It can be found on a laptop body or as an extension.

Screen / monitor. It is a computer user interface used to view or display what the user is interested to do with the computer. It is similar to TV screen when a user is using a CRT(cathode ray tube)/monitor. It also similar to a cell phone or calculator when one is using LCD(liquid Crystal display) found on a laptop or flat computer display called TFT . the other common names used to describe computer screen include Display, TFT, LCD and Monitor.

Keyboard. It is one of the very important interface part users use to talk to a computer. It is in built on a laptop but it is wired or wireless to a desktop.

Printer. It enables the computer to transfer information to paper.

CPU. Central Processing Unit(CPU) does all the work of a computer.

Memory. Maintains instruction (software) which tell the CPU what to do. It holds the user input and output. It is temporary.

Storage. This is the part that permanent retention of data happens for future use or storage. It is also called Hard disk(HDD). Other storage called secondary or external hard drive can be added.

USB ports. They hold USB devices.

DVD/CD ROM drive. It is used to read or write data from a DVD or CD.

Modems. connects computer to internet providers.

Speakers. These are sound output devices.

How To Fix a Computer that won’t Start or Work

2011-03-11T21:07:00.001+03:00

Computers are made up of different components which work together to give you the output you want. It is therefore necessary to make sure all the components of computers are working properly. Common basic start-up problems are;

1. Power supply failure

2. Keyboard problem

3. Corrupt software

4. Display settings and failures.

5. RAM failure

6. Hard disk failure

7. Motherboard problems

How to Fix it:

1. Click the power button of your computer. If it fails to start ,check if there is electric power in the socket. Switch the power socket on. test your socket functioning with another device like Tv or radio. Check if when you press the computer power button the power indicator shows ON. If not, fix or replace the computer power cable. If the power is still not ON again check if the motherboard power indicator is on. If not there is a problem with your computer power supply.

2. If your computer screen is off. Check the power supply as that of the computer CPU above. Try to check the setting of your screen if they are set to be dull.Adjust the brightness or change your screen. check if it's cable is connected to the computer. if still not working , connect to another computer.

3. If it shows keyboard error messages then try to reconnect the keyboard cable to your computer on the keyboard port or try to connect using another keyboard and then restart your computer.

4. Your windows software may be corrupt and cannot boot your computer.

You can remove any additional non bootable disk to your computer.
Press F8 when your computer starts and select last known good configuration using the arrow keys.
If you installed a new software then press shift at startup and when windows load remove the software.
You can also start from safe mode by press F8 on startup. This will enable you to remove all the newly installed software and hardware that are causing startup problem.
Repair or reinstall your windows software using bootable windows software installation disk.

5. RAM or memory failures can be due to bad RAM. Try to reseat or change your RAM.

6. Hard disk failure usually is indicated as a red or other light in the indicator. If HDD is running it will be green. Replace your hard disk or check if the power supply and data cable are properly connected to your HDD. if not working there are bad sectors on your hard disk and it may need to be replaced or repaired.

7. Motherboard failures are hard to detect since all computer components are attached to it and it is therefore hard to single out a problem since it can be due to processor, memory, graphic card, memory board etc. It usually gives beeps during start ups. Consult a computer repair technician.
Get more startup repair tips here http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/setup/support/nostart.mspx

8. Close your computer DVD/CD drive door.

9. Restart your computer once again by switch the power on and off.

How To Clean Printer cartridge contacts

2011-02-12T13:33:00.000+03:00

You may need to clean HP printer cartridge contacts if the power light is blinking, after installing a print cartridge, and the printer will not print due to clogged cartridge contact or one of the following messages may also display on the computer:
* Incorrect print cartridge'
* 'Print Cartridge is in the wrong slot'
* 'Print cartridge problem'

How To Clean Printer cartridge contacts

1. Gather the following items to clean the cartridge and carriage:

2. Listed below.

* Clean distilled water. Use bottled or filtered water if distilled water is not available. Tap water can contain contaminants that damage the cartridge.

* Clean cotton swabs or any soft, lint-free material that will not stick to the cartridges (coffee filters work well).

* Sheets of paper or a paper towel to rest the cartridge on during cleaning.

3. Open the product cover and wait until the carriage is idle and silent.

4.Remove the cartridge and place it on a piece of paper with the nozzle plate facing up.

NOTE:Clean the contacts quickly so that the cartridge is not outside of the product for more than 30 minutes. If the cartridge is outside of the product for too long, the ink can dry and clog the nozzles.

5.Unplug the product from the electrical outlet.

6. Dip a swab in the clean water and squeeze it to remove most of the moisture. The swab should be only slightly damp.

7.Clean the cartridge contacts.

CAUTION:Do not touch the ink nozzles.

Figure 4: Cartridge contacts
cartilige contacts location

8.Clean the contacts in the carriage, inside the product.

Figure 5: Carriage contacts
Printer contacts location

9.Either let the cartridge sit for 10 minutes to allow the cleaned area to dry, or use a new swab to dry it.

10. Reinstall the cartridge.

11. Reconnect the product to the electrical outlet.

12. Close the product cover.

How To Fix HP Printer Error 20 : Insufficient / Memory Overflow

2011-01-30T20:15:00.000+03:00

HP and other Printers have a lot of little basic bugs, but if you know how to deal with some of the more habitual problems you will be able to make your printer your friendly companion to your tasks and projects.
Error code 20 Problem: "Not Enough Disk Space", “Overflow”, “insufficient memory”, “overrun” or "Printer not activated” error message
Possible Causes and Solutions:

A large print job has exceeded the memory capacity of the printer. Add more memory or simplify the print job. Remember the original HP Laserjet has only 128K of memory available, the Laser Jet+ has only 512K and neither one is really upgradable.
Simplify the print job by lowering graphic and images pixels, changing fonts, etc. It is done from control panel:::>printer:::>installed printer model named :::>setup:::>printer resolution or graphic quality:::>change values
Verify that the SIMMS or memory cards are properly seated. It may become loose if you move your printer. Check printer manual to locate the SIMMS.

On the HP LaserJet 5P turn the image adapt and page protect to ON or AUTO. These can be set within the Remote Control Panel. Press GO to resume printing.

On the HP LaserJet 5L, set the Enhanced I/O to AUTO (PCL mode) and resend the print job
Set your LaserJet printer driver to default printer driver; Control panel:::>Printer:::> Installed printer model named:::>Set It as default. If the printer is not installed then add it from the list. Remove other printer drivers. Unplug your printer from Pc and plug it back after restarting your Pc..
Print to the LaserJet printer using an add-on PostScript option. Control panel:::>Printer:::> Select the appropriate HP PostScript model:::>Set as default
Corrupt registry- Clear your Registry using a registry cleaner tool. This software is free; get one!
Windows XP, click Start and then click Control Panel. Click Printers And Other Hardware and Printers And Faxes. In the Printers And Faxes window, from the File menu, click Server Properties, then click the Drivers tab. This shows the settings in your printer's driver. Compare the settings in this dialog box with the ideal settings in your printer's manual. If you see a discrepancy in these settings, the printer may simply need a new driver and delete old one first. You can download latest updated printer driver version from the printer manufacturer's Web site.

Get more help. Installing a new driver won't solve every printer woe, of course, so understanding printer's manual and Windows' built-in Help system will give you an even sharper troubleshooting edge.
Get a free problem fixing software from Microsoft website http://support.microsoft.com/fixit/
Your Printer does not need Repair.

How to Fix Keyboard Problems

2011-01-30T20:14:00.003+03:00

Keyboards form an important part of the computer user interface and a keyboard problem can be very annoying. Some of the common keyboard problems are:
a. Some keys work, while other keys don't
b. A key comes out or is stuck
c. No character appears on the screen when entered on the keyboard
d. Keyboard test failure appears during startup or a series of beeps are heard when the computer is started
e. A character/letter repeat itself too fast when you place your finger on a key.
f. discolouration or fading. etc

How to fix Keyboard problems:
1. Due to wear and tear, the keys for certain characters on a keyboard will wear out.
This happens for more commonly used characters. If the problem is due to loose or improper contact, you can try to fix the key back. If this does not work, you can replace the key with a new key purchased from a computer store.

2. Sometimes the keyboard drivers can get corrupted. You need to change them or test the driver.
Right click My Computer :::>Hardware:::>Device Manager and uninstall the keyboard. For windowsXP Start:::>Control panel:::>Keyboard:::>Hardware:::>Properties:::> Driver:::> uninstall keyboard. Restart the computer, the keyboard should get reinstalled automatically.The keyboard should start working again. If not so get keyboard drivers by updating windows or manufacturer web site.
Always run a free computer antivirus scan or any other anti-virus since virus can corrupt system files. get one now!

3. Try to swap the keyboard with another keyboard which works properly on another computer. If the alternate keyboard has the same problem, there may be a problem with the keyboard circuit on motherboard.
If the alternate keyboard works properly, check if the keyboard cable is properly connected, whether wires in the keyboard cable are connected properly.

4. Open out the keyboard and check if the keyboard fuse is working. If the fuse has blown, replace it with another fuse of the same rating and size.

5. If you spill water or any liquid on the keyboard, switch off the computer immediately. Unplug the keyboard, turn the keyboard upside down and keep it out for drying either in the sun, blow dryer or under a fan. If some other sticky fluid has been spilled on the keyboard, use a moist cotton swab or ear bud to clean computer or wipe away the fluid. Only when it is completely dry, (it will take a minimum of 24 hours depending on the weather), connect the keyboard back to your computer.

6. For USB keyboard change/switch the USB ports or unplug the keyboard from the USB port then plug it back until it responds. Usually the keyboard led(indicator) lighting up should show a successful connection.You can also try to clean the USB port contacts with ear bud or a folded cloth.

7. Set the speed of character repeatation.
For windowsXP click Start:::>Control panel:::>Keyboard:::>Speed:::>make your adjustments.

8. Set the blinking rate of cursor.
For windowsXP Start:::>Control panel:::>Keyboard:::>Speed:::> Make your adjustments.

9. Go for a typing course or tutorial on how to use keboard features.

10. For discolouration or fading of white keyboard. Use good computer cleaners,soft cloth, whiteners or vinegar mixed with water to keep the original white colour or clean. don't use bleach or rough material to clean. disconnect the power supply. Also switching to black keyboard can comfort you.

How To Transfer/copy data from hard disk drive To Another Drive

2011-01-30T19:01:00.001+03:00

If your hard disk is giving error messages it is cheaper to install a new hard disk drive and transfer all important data to the new hard drive. Depending on your technical skills, importance of the data, time and money available, there are various options available.

How to transfer data for a new installation of Windows/Operating system. A Mac can read data from a Windows formatted drive, but the naming convention for the drive should be compatible.
This is recommended since the system will work faster.
How To Do It
1. Copy all important documents, text files, program installation software and important data onto a CD/DVD/USB drive depending on the file size. Multiple data backups are recommended.
You can also transfer the data to an external drive connected to the USB port.
2. Partition and format the new hard drive or storage media
3.If you have done some computer troubleshooting and repair yourself, you can directly transfer data from the old hard disk to the new hard disk . Connect the old hard disk to the computer with the new drive with the secondary IDE cable. Set the jumpers , so that the new drive is configured as the master and the old drive is set as the slave. When you switch on the computer, you can directly transfer data between the 2 drives, using the copy command.
4. If you are not confident about jumper settings and removing drives, you can copy important data directly from the backup CD/DVD/USB drive.
5. Programs will have to be reinstalled on the new hard drive
6. If you wish to keep the entire program files and Operating system intact on the new hard drive , you can use imaging utilities like Norton's Ghost. However, creating and restoring the ghost image of a hard drive is very time consuming process.
7. Another way to transfer data between computers is to connect the 2 computers using a LAN cable and transfer data between hard drives on the peer to peer network.

How To Partition and Format hard disk drives and USB drives

2011-01-30T18:58:00.001+03:00

If data on your hard disk is corrupted it is advisable to format the hard disk and reinstall the operating system (usually Windows). If a new hard disk is used, you may prefer to partition the hard disk into 2 or more drive. The operating system is installed on the first drive and a backup of the data is stored on the second drive.

How to do Formatting and partitioning data storage media

1. Normally, the Windows operating system is installed on the C drive. Since some files are in use when the computer is switched on, you will not be able to directly format C drive from Windows. You will get an error message about running tasks.

If you have partitioned your hard disk into C: and D: drive, you can format D drive first, install Windows XP. copy a backup of all your important files on C drive to D drive or else where and only then reformat C drive partition so that you can reinstall it after you install your operating system.

2. If the hard disk is not partitioned or you are working with a new hard disk, change the BIOS settings so that the computer boots from the CD ROM drive. Put the Windows installation CD in the CD ROM drive before shutting down the computer. For information about how to configure your computer to start from the CD or DVD drive, see the documentation that is included with your computer, or contact the computer manufacturer.
You can also create or delete a partition using the Fdisk command and Format tools. Windows will show the hard disk, only when the primary partition is created. When the computer restarts, you will get an option - to format the drive and reinstall the operating system.

3. Partition and format your new Hard drive. Select the file system as NTFS (New Technology File System) or FAT32 (File Allocation Table) depending on kind of data you are likely to store on the computer. NTFS has smaller cluster sizes and has security advantages, but FAT32 is the only system that can be used to reliably transfer data between Linux and Windows based PCs.
4. After formatting, 100% of the hard drive may not be free, since some space is used for storing MBR and other system data. In rare cases, due to temporary files , you may not be able to format your hard disk. In such cases, you should use some software to remove the partition and remove all the data.
5.Thumb drives or pen drives (data stored in flash memory) often give an error that drive is not formatted. You can try to reformat again using the FAT32 system. If this does not work, the memory may be damaged.

How and when to Delete data and program files Permanently From Hard Disk

2011-01-30T18:52:00.001+03:00

Due to privacy and security concerns, most people wish to delete and files from their computer. Usually this is simple, but at times you can face problems. If you selling your hard disk, you may wish to delete all files.

Since most users use their computer while they are logged in as administrator, they should be able to delete any file on their hard drive.

How and when to Delete data and program files.
Solution 1.Sometimes, if there is an error during installation of a program, the delete option may not work. In such cases, you start the computer in the safe mode and try to delete files. If even this does not work, go to the MS Dos prompt and try to delete the file.
Solution 2. If a cookie is not getting deleted or changing its name , it could be Spyware and you may have to use Spyware removal tools.
Solution 3. Some files infected by viruses cannot be repaired by antivirus software , so they are quarantined to prevent further problems.
Solution 4. For a CDRW disc, data can be erased using software from Nero, Windows Media Player or Adaptec.
Solution 5. If a virus cannot be removed easily, formatting the hard disk may be the best option to erase all the data. However, if a hard disk is formatted many times (300-500 times), it may reduce the life of the hard drive. A Windows CD is required for formatting and reinstalling Windows OS.
Solution 6. Formatting the hard drive does not securely erase data and if you are giving away your hard drive, data recovery experts may be able to extract personal information from your hard drive. So if the data has to be permanently erased, an Eraser program can be used, which rewrites the hard drive with random data, so that the data stored originally on the hard drive cannot be recovered. A wipe program will overwrite with random data 7 to 35 times, so that no personal data can be retrieved.
Solution 7. When a file is deleted from a hard drive, only the location of the files on the master file table are marked as free. The deleted files remain on the hard disk till they are overwritten by new files.

How To Send Email To Undisclosed Recipients or Hide Email Addresses

2011-01-30T18:27:00.002+03:00

Exposing the email addresses of people who may have wanted to keep them private is unethical since it encourages spam and email scams. The list of To: field may become too long hiding your message.

Functions of email fields
To: Shows recipients of the email you send.

Cc: Means carbon copy of the email you sent in the To field. Copy can be to yourself or someone else email. It is just for record.

Bcc: Means Blind carbon copy and therefore only you and the Bcc email recipient specified will know since the email address is automatically deleted on delivery.

How To Send to Undisclosed/hide recipients
1. Create / compose a new message in your email client account.

2. Insert "Undisclosed Recipients" in the To: field, followed by your email address in "<,>" braces. You can also leave it blank.

*
o The To: field should look like: "Undisclosed Recipients ".
o If you send emails to undisclosed recipients frequently, you can add your own email address to your address book with "Undisclosed" as the first and "recipients" as the last name without the quotes. Instead of filling in the To: field manually, you can then use the address book entry.

3.Put all the recipients' email addresses in the Bcc: field, separated by commas. You will first need to select show Bcc,if the field is hidden.

*
o The Bcc: field could look something like: "my.first.friend@example.net, my_second_friend@example.net, stillanotherfriend@example.com".

4.Finish Composing your message.

5.Send it.

6. To: now read "Undisclosed Recipients" or blank if To: was left blank

How to fix Motherboard problems

2011-01-29T22:36:00.002+03:00

Since all computer components are connected on the motherboard, motherboard failures can be difficult to troubleshoot. If the motherboard fails completely,no beeps will be heard, since the computer cannot perform a power on self test. Power supply fluctuations and spikes can damage the motherboard.

How to fix Motherboard problems:
1. Check if the power supply to the motherboard is connected properly. Also check the output voltage from the power supply using a multimeter. If output voltage from the power supply is very low, replace the power supply.
2. Inspect the motherboard and remove any dust or particles which may be causing shorting. If any contacts seem to be oxidized, remove the oxidation. Sometimes the jumpers may come off when the computer is moved, so check if they are fitted properly.
3. Check the connectors and see if any of the pins are bent. Try to straighten them slowly, taking care to ensure that they do not break off
4. In older motherboards there may be a problem due to leaky electrolytic capacitors (a manufacturing defect). You can either replace the capacitors or the motherboard.
5. If you have changed the speed of the CPU (over clocking), reset the speed to the default BIOS setting. This can be done when the computer is started
6. Check if the CPU fan is working properly. This is very important for an AMD CPU like Athlon or Duron, since more heat is generated compared to an Intel CPU.
7. The details of the motherboard are usually written on the motherboard and the manual provided with the PC. If you wish to upgrade to a new CPU, check if the CPU is compatible with the motherboard. Also ensure that the power supply rating is adequate.
8. The voltage of the CMOS battery should be checked. Ideally, the voltage should be 3V, but if the voltage is lower than 2.8V, the battery should be replaced.

How to fix USB device problems

2011-01-29T22:07:00.001+03:00

Nowadays, most external devices are conveniently connected to a computer using the USB ports.eg USB keyboard,USB mouse,memory stick,external harddisk,USB modem,flash disk,playstation devices etc. Some USB devices like flash drives should only be removed after stopping it, otherwise the USB device may be damaged and data lost. It is recommended to connect USB to the ports using USB cables; otherwise forcing USB to the port will cause USB damage. Some times, the USB device is not recognized by the computer due to a number of reasons.

How to fix USB device problems :
1. Check if the USB device is properly connected. Many times, if the contact between the connectors is even slightly lose, the device may not be detected. Check if the internal connectors to the motherboard are fixed properly.
2. Many USB devices work on the computer power supply, but a few have a separate power supply. In such cases, ensure that the USB power supply is switched on after making suitable connections.
3.Device drivers are usually provided separately on a CD, though some USB devices work with the default drivers available with Windows. The device drivers must be installed on your computer . Check for the latest versions of device drivers on the manufacturers website. Also ensure that the latest device drivers for your motherboard are installed.
4. Uninstall the USB device through device manager. Switch off the computer, unplug the USB device Check if the latest device drivers are installed and and restart the computer. Windows will automatically install the device drivers. Connect the USB devices again.
5. Many times USB devices, especially pen drives are faulty. In such cases, get a new device as a replacement from the manufacturer, if the product is under warranty.
6. Try connecting the USB device in Windows Safe Mode. If the device works properly in safe mode, but not normally, there may be a problem with some software installed on your computer.
7. Some times, you may have USB 2.0 hardware ports which are detected as USB 1.0 because of the Operating System Installed. Windows XP supports USB 2.0 only from Service Pack 1 onwards, so for older versions of Windows you may face this problem.
8. If the screws or internal adhesives detach and the USB nose plays in and out (loose). Then attach the USB to a USB cable permanently. You can also open up the flash disk and add more adhesive or tighten the screw. Avoid using much force when plugging in USB to the computer Ports.
9. Run antivirus scan every time you connect a unfamiliar flash disk to your computer. It may have a virus or malware. you can get free anti-virus now.
10.Use Data recovery software to get lost data from your USB drive.

How To Fix Printer Error 21 : Print Overrun

2011-01-28T17:21:00.001+03:00

HP and other Printers have a lot of little basic bugs, but if you know how to deal with some of the more habitual problems you will be able to make your printer your friendly companion to your tasks and projects.

Error code 21 Problem: " Print Overrun " error message

Possible Causes and solutions:

The print job is to complex. Simplify the job by removing font changes etc. On the III, IIID, IIIP, enable page protect if you have and additional 1 MB of memory installed.
On the 4/4M/4+ and 5: The print job is to complex, enable page protect from the control panel and from the software. You may need additional memory.
4L Same thing with to much data or the page is to complex. Simplify the print job. Turn the image adapt and page protect to ON or AUTO either from the control panel or from within HP Explorers Remote Control Panel.

5P/5Si Same as above, Press GO to resume printing.
Windows XP, click Start and then click Control Panel. Click Printers And Other Hardware and Printers And Faxes. In the Printers And Faxes window, from the File menu, click Server Properties, then click the Drivers tab. This shows the settings in your printer's driver. Compare the settings in this dialog box with the ideal settings in your printer's manual. If you see a discrepancy in these settings, the printer may simply need a new driver and delete old one. You can download printer drivers from the printer manufacturer's Web site.

Get more help. Installing a new driver won't solve every printer woe, of course, so understanding Windows' built-in Help system will give you an even sharper troubleshooting edge.
Download fixing software from Microsoft http://support.microsoft.com/fixit/

How to Fix HP 4500/4550 Printer Error 13, Error 54.6 : Reinstall Transfer Belt

2010-03-17T12:03:00.003+03:00

HP printers and others have a lot of little basic bugs, but if you know how to deal with some of the more habitual problems you will make the printer your friendly companion to your tasks and projects.

Error code Error 13 or Error 54.6 Problem: " Reinstall Transfer Belt " error message

Possible Causes and Solutions

This can be caused by debris or paper scraps blocking connector pins on ITB connector. The connector is located on left rear of ITB drawer and the corresponding mating connector is on the chassis. Open the ITB drawer and remove the transfer belt assembly. Pull the drawer out until it reaches the stops. Align the first set of rollers with the opening in the roller slide rail and lift up until the rollers clear the rail. Slide the drawer back until the second set of rollers align with the opening in the rail and lift the drawer up and out. Examine the connector on the left rear of the drawer and the mating connector on the printer chassis for debris or paper scraps. Reinstall in reverse order.

Windows XP, click Start and then click Control Panel. Click Printers and Other Hardware and Printers And Faxes. In the Printers And Faxes window, from the File menu, click Server Properties, then click the Drivers tab. This shows the settings in your printer's driver. Compare the settings in this dialog box with the ideal settings in your printer's manual. If you see a discrepancy in these settings, the printer may simply need a new driver and delete old one. You can download printer drivers from the printer manufacturer's Web site.

Get more help. Updating or installing a new driver won't solve every printer woe, of course, so understanding Windows' built-in Help system will give you an even sharper troubleshooting edge

How To Fix HP 4500/4550 Printer Printing Blank Page

2010-03-16T14:51:00.002+03:00

HP 4500/4550 Printers have a lot of little basic bugs, but if you know how to deal with some of the more habitual problems you will make the printer your friendly companion to your tasks and projects.

Problem: HP 4500/4550 Printer Printing Blank Page

Possible Causes and Solutions:
Blank page printed when job is sent - Cannot be stopped until a door is opened or printer is turned off. This is a problem with early transfer belt assemblies. ITB must be replaced, C4196, transfer kit. This problem occurs with transfer belt serial numbers earlier than lot EHC5001064 The lot code is located on the white barcode label on top of the transfer belt.

If it is a printer communication problem then Turn off the printer, unplug it from the electrical outlet, plug it back in, and then turn it on again. Turn off the computer for about five minutes, then restart it. Reload your printer drivers. Close all programs except the program from which you're attempting to print. Close the program you're trying to print from and then attempt to print from another application. Try to print a test page from the printer itself. This ensures that the problem is definitely software-related and not a printer hardware problem.

If you've connected the printer through a scanner or other peripheral, reconnect the printer directly to your PC. Replace the printer cable with a cable you're sure is functional. If all else fails, try the printer with a different PC to make sure it works. If that doesn't help, try a different printer with your PC to ensure that your computer isn't the problem.

How To Fix HP 4500/4550 Printer Printing Faded Print Pages

2010-03-16T14:49:00.002+03:00

HP 4500/4550 Printers have a lot of little basic bugs, but if you know how to deal with some of the more habitual problems you will make the printer your friendly companion to your tasks and projects.

Problem: HP 4500/4550 Printer Printing Fade Print Pages

Possible Causes and Solutions:
Light print on right half of page - one color or all colors. We have found a few cases of a dirty scanner motor mirror causing this problem. Remove the top cover, then the shield plate over the scanner then the scanner cover. Look at the scanner mirror and see if there is a build up of toner on the right side. Clean the scanner mirror and reassemble the printer!
If it is a printer communication problem then Turn off the printer, unplug it from the electrical outlet, plug it back in, and then turn it on again. Turn off the computer for about five minutes, then restart it. Reload your printer drivers. Close all programs except the program from which you're attempting to print. Close the program you're trying to print from and then attempt to print from another application. Try to print a test page from the printer itself. This ensures that the problem is definitely software-related and not a printer hardware problem.

If you've connected the printer through a scanner or other peripheral, reconnect the printer directly to your PC. Replace the printer cable with a cable you're sure is functional. If all else fails, try the printer with a different PC to make sure it works. If that doesn't help, try a different printer with your PC to ensure that your computer isn't the problem.

How To Fix HP 4500/4550 Printer Printing Full Black Page

2010-03-16T14:47:00.002+03:00

HP 4500/4550 Printers have a lot of little basic bugs, but if you know how to deal with some of the more habitual problems you will make the printer your friendly companion to your tasks and projects.

Problem: HP 4500/4550 Printer Printing Full Black Page

Possible Causes and Solutions:
A black page can result from the high voltage contact not "springing" back and making contact with the drum unit. This causes toner to apply to the entire page resulting in a buildup on the transfer roller. The resulting page is generally black and tends to curl from the excessive toner fusing to the page. Clean the contact and make sure the spring extends the contact so a connection is made to the drum unit. Clean the transfer roller.

If it is a printer communication problem then Turn off the printer, unplug it from the electrical outlet, plug it back in, and then turn it on again. Turn off the computer for about five minutes, then restart it. Reload your printer drivers. Close all programs except the program from which you're attempting to print. Close the program you're trying to print from and then attempt to print from another application. Try to print a test page from the printer itself. This ensures that the problem is definitely software-related and not a printer hardware problem.

If you've connected the printer through a scanner or other peripheral, reconnect the printer directly to your PC. Replace the printer cable with a cable you're sure is functional. If all else fails, try the printer with a different PC to make sure it works. If that doesn't help, try a different printer with your PC to ensure that your computer isn't the problem.

How To Find a Lost Email in Outlook 2003 (or higher)

2010-02-16T21:45:00.004+03:00

Because of the various email platforms that can work with Outlook, it is tricky to tell you how to receive all email to your Outlook inbox. We can tell you; however, how to make sure you can see all the emails you receive as they were intended to be seen - with images. If a company is not in your address book or "Safe Sender" list, your HTML images will not display.
To have HTML display correctly, users can:
* Change their automatic download settings
* Add sender to your address book
* Add your email or domain to their approved sender list

To change settings:
1. Right click on a non-displaying image in an HTML email
2. Choose "Change automatic download settings" option
3. When the popup comes up, uncheck the first box in the list that says "don’t download pictures or other HTML content automatically
4. Click "OK"

To add sender to address book:
1. Open the email
2. Right click on the from address
3. Choose "Add to contacts" option

To add domain to safe sender list:
1. Right click on a non-displaying image in an HTML email
2. Choose "Add the domain to the safe sender list" option

How To Find a Lost Hotmail Email and Put It In Hotmail Inbox

2010-02-16T21:41:00.004+03:00

In the new Hotmail you must "Mark sender as safe" to enable hyperlinks even in text emails and images in HTML emails.

Entering the email contact in the address book or contacts no longer whitelists the sender
To ensure messages from specific email addresses are not sent to your Junk Email folder, you can do one of two things:
1. Check the "Junk" folder if you do not see the senders name in your inbox
2. Click the "Mark as safe" link
3. Add senders email to your Safe List

Mark Sender as Safe
Attachments, pictures, and links in this message have been blocked for your safety. Show content
Sender1 name sender1@hotmail.com – sender1 name
From: senders email “sender1@hotmail.com” You may not know this sender. Mark as safe | Mark as unsafe
Sent: Thu 6/14/07 12:00 AM
Reply-to: sender1@hotmail.com
1. Click "Show content" to view the body of the email if it contains images and HTML
2. Click "Mark as safe"
3. sender1 will now be added to your list of "Safe senders"

Manually Add to Safe List
1. Click "Options" in the upper right corner of your Hotmail screen
2. In the Body of the page under "Junk e-mail" click the link "Safe and blocked senders"
3. Click the link "Safe senders"
4. Enter the email address "sender1@hotmail.com "
5. Click "Add to list"

How To Find a Lost Gmail Email and Put It In Gmail Inbox

2010-02-16T21:38:00.007+03:00

If you do not see an email from a sender in your Gmail inbox, due to the overzealous filtering by ISPs my email may have mistakenly been sent to your spam folder. Please open your spam folder look for it there, open it and mark it as "not spam"...
Since your ISP/email client probably uses some type of spam filter we ask that you add us to your trusted list of senders, contacts or address book. All also known as whitelisting
Click the link to your ISP or email client to Whitelist a sender, from: sender email/site.
To make sure email gets delivered to your inbox, you must add the email address sender email address to your contacts list.
If you haven't received your email, please follow the steps below:
.
1. Click the drop down arrow next to "Reply" in the upper right side of your inbox screen.
2. Click the "Add sender email or website to Contacts List" from the list that appears.
3. You will now see sender email/site appear under the link "Contacts" on the left side of the page.
4. Click the link "Contacts" and the in the "Search Contacts" form field.
5. Now you can select to move the sender email address to a contact list of choice and edit any details.

How to Fix Printer Error 10.92.XX : Cartridges Not Engaged

2010-02-16T21:38:00.006+03:00

HP Color LaserJet 3500/3700 Printers have a lot of little basic bugs, but if you know how to deal with some of the more habitual problems you will make the printer your friendly companion to your tasks and projects.

Error code 10.92.XX Problem: " Cartridges Not Engaged, poor primary transfer bias contacts, defective high-voltage supply, or control signal errors. " error messages
where meaning of XX = 01 Cyan, XX = 02 Magenta, XX = 03 Yellow, XX = 00 Black cartridge

Possible Causes and Solutions:

Where problem Description: Cartridges are not engaged., poor primary transfer bias contacts, defective high-voltage supply, or control signal errors.
Action, the service manual says: 1-open and close door, 2-reseat cartridges, 3-check contacts to transfer unit, clean if dirty, or replace transfer unit if they cannot be cleaned or are damaged, 4-replace H.V.P.S. PCB, 5-replace DC Controller PCB.

First look for a small white plastic piece broken off from inside Front Door Assembly(near top right corner). This piece pushes a ITB coupling lever inside the printer which engages the cartridges. Part# RC1-1247-000 - Lever, ITB Coupling, It's the same part for HP Color LaserJet 3500 and 3700.

• Windows XP, click Start and then click Control Panel. Click Printers And Other Hardware and Printers And Faxes. In the Printers And Faxes window, from the File menu, click Server Properties, then click the Drivers tab. This shows the settings in your printer's driver. Compare the settings in this dialog box with the ideal settings in your printer's manual. If you see a discrepancy in these settings, the printer may simply need a new driver and delete old one first. You can download printer drivers from the printer manufacturer's Web site.
• Get more help. Installing a new driver or updating drivers won't solve every printer woe, of course, so understanding Windows' built-in Help system will give you an even sharper troubleshooting edge.

How To Find a Lost Yahoo Email and Put It In Yahoo! Mail Inbox

2010-02-16T21:33:00.004+03:00

If you do not see an email from a sender in your Yahoo mail inbox, due to the overzealous filtering by ISPs my email may have mistakenly been sent to your spam folder. Please open your spam folder look for it there, open it and mark it as "not spam"...

If you’re not receiving email you are expecting, there are two things you can do:
1. Use the "Not Spam" button in your Bulk folder.
2. Create a filter to automatically send email from certain domains to your Inbox. This is the only way to really ensure delivery.

Report as "Not Spam"
1. - Check your Yahoo! Bulk folder
2. - If you see the email from the sender, highlight it and click "Not Spam"
3. - This does not guarantee that your mail will be delivered in the future, but it does help.

Create a Filter
1. Click "Options" in the top right navigation bar
2. Select "Mail Options" from the list that drops down
3. Choose "Filters" located on the left side of the page
4. Click the "Add" button on the Filters page
5. Choose the field you want to match in the incoming message. For example, "header" or "to".
6. Choose the criterion by which you want a match to be made, such as "contains"
7. Enter the text string to compare. For example: from Mysender1
8. Choose the destination folder to which you would like the message delivered. For example: Inbox