A Hassle-Free Windows Re-Installation Preparation

In our everyday life with computers and laptops, we often run into different types of problems which can make our life miserable. Most of these problems result from corrupt file installations, malicious attacks by virus, Trojan or spyware, improper shutdown, hardware or software conflicts etc. In many cases we are suggested to completely re-install Windows operating system for a remedy. But even after a fresh installation, we may continue to face even more serious problems that are more difficult to solve.

My personal PC experience is full of these hectic re-installations. Over the last 13 years of my life with PC and Windows, I did it time and time again. That is why I believe I can be of some help in giving you useful tips for a hassle-free Windows re-installation.

Before you start the re-installation and hit that 'Setup.exe', follow these steps:

- Remove all your files/documents from (or rename) the 'My Documents' and 'Desktop' folders. You can move them to a different partition for safety.

- Take a look at the hardware/devices in your computer from 'Device Manager' by right clicking 'My Computer', selecting 'Properties' then 'Hardware' tab. It is extremely useful to have a screenshot of the array of the devices saved.

- In case you're worried about hardware drivers, carry out a physical examination of all the hardware, i.e. your motherboard, hard drive, graphics card, CD/DVD drive, chipsets, BIOS etc. Note down their brand names and model numbers in a piece of paper. In case your computer shows hardware conflict arising from lack of proper drivers, you can get them downloaded from the internet.

- Carry out a thorough study of your PC to find out customized settings, configurations, shortcuts, saved files, tweaks, internet bookmarks/favorites etc. and save/note them. A fresh installation would destroy most of these settings/configurations.

- Gather the driver CD/DVDs (or even those old Floppies if you still have a drive) for display, audio, LAN card etc.

- Keep the essential software CDs handy (e.g. MS Office, Acrobat Reader, WinZip, Nero Burning ROM etc).

- Get the CD-keys of all the software nearby (or written, if you have lost the CD cover already from the software installed. Usually they are found in the Help>About menu option).

- It is a good idea to get rid of would-be-junks. So, gradually uninstall all the software that you installed over a period of time. This will trim the hard disk space by removing files which will become invalid after a fresh re-installation. Use the software's inbuilt uninstaller or the Windows' uninstaller in this case.

- I strongly suggest getting a copy of DOS shell program like Norton Commander (NC) installed in a different partition. When everything fails, NC (or a similar program) can bail you out.

Now that you're almost done, get the Windows CD/DVD placed at the disk drive, make sure you turn on the 'boot from CD' option in the BIOS and switch on the PC. Follow the steps prompted by the installation session.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1901786

Apple signs point to iOS 5 release in two weeks

Signs point to the week of Oct. 10, with reports focused on Oct. 12 as the release date for iOS 5. That date fits with Apple's past practice of opening the download gates for its operating system several days before the on-sale launch of the next-generation iPhone, dubbed iPhone 5 by most analysts and pundits.

Earlier this week, Apple issued invitations to an Oct. 4 event tagged with the less-than-cryptic phrase, "Let's talk about iPhone."

If Apple repeats the schedule it used last March for the iPad 2, the new iPhone will go on sale the week following the Oct. 4 introduction, most likely either Thursday, Oct. 13 or Friday, Oct. 14.

citing unnamed sources, have said that Apple has restricted vacation days for its retail store and support employees for the periods Oct. 9-Oct. 12 and Oct. 14-Oct. 15. Apple often blacks out vacation time when it starts pre-selling or selling new products.

The first block of restrictions may be to fully staff Apple's support lines in anticipation of questions arising from the release of iOS 5, perhaps as early as Oct. 10, according to AppleInsider.

But if Apple does put the iPhone 5 on sale Oct. 14 -- the company often favors Fridays -- and sticks to its practice over the last two years, it will make iOS 5 available on Oct. 11 or Oct. 12.

In 2010, Apple started serving the iOS 4 upgrade three days before the iPhone 4 launch; two years ago, the gap between iOS 3's availability and inaugural iPhone 3GS sales was two days.

Apple changed its iOS upgrade schedule after 2008, when it released iPhone OS 2.0 and launched the iPhone 3G simultaneously. The combination brought Apple's servers to their knees as users clamored for the update and new phones were activated in AT&T and Apple retail stores.

Apple introduced iOS 5 in early June at its annual developers conference, where Scott Forstall, Apple's senior vice president of iOS software, highlighted a handful of new features, including "PC Free," the company's name for wireless activation, synchronization and updating.

The iOS 5 upgrade will be available to owners of the iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPad and iPad 2, and the 2009 and 2010 editions of the iPod Touch.

Apple is also working on an update for Mac OS X 10.7, aka Lion, which may ship alongside iOS 5, if only because both Lion and iOS will require refreshes to handle the company's new iCloud sync and backup service.

Mac Os X Snow Leopard - The Missing Manual

Book Review: Mac OS X Snow Leopard - The Missing Manual by David Pogue

We yearn to know everything there is to know about the latest softwares and operating systems and the Snow Leopard is one of them, the only problem lies with the fact that the manuals that are supposed to clear our confusion usually just add to it! The technical details in these sort of books are reminders of our maths classes that tease us but never clear our doubts, while the various sophisticated terminology usually drains our brain capacities. The language itself is a barrier as it is written by those geeks who made the software and we normal humans just don't seem to get them.

Weighing in at over 3 pounds and close to 900 pages enter the Mac OS X Snow Leopard: The Missing Manual

This is not a manual of any sort but a definitive guide to everything Snow Leopard. Every time Pogue comes up with a new edition of his Mac OS Missing Manuals, they just keep getting better and better. The language is user friendly and every edition is as helpful as the last. As in the previous editions, you are able to go through every detail and feature of the operating system. The author also informs you of the included applications and even some of the iLife apps. Although screen shots are used in between the book it is done in a rather limited manner so as not to turn the manual into a comic book series.

The special feature of this edition that was missing from the previous one is the inclusion of the intermediate users in his mix. The advanced topics are not only mentioned in the book but a few are also explained in detail and clearly.

Mac OS X Snow Leopard - The Missing Manual by David Pogue is the best snow leopard manual, it covers more than you will ever need to know.

Source: EzineArticles

OS Face-off: Windows 8 vs. Mac OS X Lion

The PC operating system wars have been raging for nearly 3 decades. Ever since IBM picked Microsoft's DOS for its PCs, other OSes have endeavored to push their way into the market. Undoubtedly, Windows continues to rule the roost, but Apple is fast catching up in the OS landscape.

Will Windows 8 roar like a Lion? Or Lion will bite the dust with the arrival of new Windows? Let’s find out who will emerge as the winner in this battle.

Design aspect
Mac OS X Lion and the upcoming Windows 8 share a major design aspect: they both take cues from the respective mobile OS versions. While Mac OS X Lion is heavily influenced from iPad’s iOS platform, Windows 8 takes the cue from Windows Phone 7.

Interface
Multi-Touch gestures in OS X Lion make it feel as though you’re controlling your content more directly than ever before. So when you scroll down on your trackpad or Magic Mouse, your document scrolls down.

Windows 8 too makes a heavy use of touch interfaces. It is being designed for interaction with keyboards (both real and virtual), mouse, joystick, trackpad and touch screen. In addition, gone are the pastels and goofy looking icons of Microsoft. They have been replaced by a high contrast black and white menu with slick, modern looking icons.

Platforms
One striking difference between the two platforms is their compatibility with other devices.

While Mac OS X Lion is specifically targeted at Apple’s computer arm and won’t include iPhone and iPad; Microsoft, on the other hand, is creating one OS for tablets and desktops and may have its ideas for a grand unified OS for all devices. It is reported that next generation of Windows operating system not only work on Intel and AMD but will also run on ARM, making it a desirable choice for tablet makers.

App Store
Apple has already found success in iTunes and the different App Stores for its Macs and ‘i’ range of devices.

Microsoft too has unveiled a prototype App Store for Windows 8. The new marketplace for Windows apps will be prominently featured on the OS Start Screen.

The aforementioned features clearly signal that both Windows 8 and Mac OS X Lion have a lot more in common but there are, of course, important differences between Microsoft and Apple's overall OS strategies.

So which OS will emerge out on top as the dominate presence in the computing world in the years to come? Any guesses!!

OS X Duplicate File Finder

Is there anything worse than a slow Mac? Your once blazing fast computer is now trudging along slowly, struggling to complete tasks. One of the biggest reasons for this issue is duplicate files. An OS X duplicate file finder will make the process of targeting and deleting redundant files simple. You may not realize it, but culprits like font files, music files, email messages, and unnecessary program files can quickly sap your laptop or tower of its speed. Luckily there exists software that zaps the files that you don't need, allowing you to back everything up cleanly, and getting you back to your original speed.

If your hard disk is nearly at capacity, you'll notice a definite impact on you system speed. You might have music files that you downloaded more than once, repeated holiday photos, and more. What you need is a way to quickly scan through your files using a byte-to-byte analyzation method. The best software will compare all of the attributes like size, bit rate, author, date, and more, which will give you the clearest way to delete what you don't need, and back up what you want to keep.

Apple users have a few options when it comes to finding and deleting duplicate files on an OS X system. The software that I have used for the past year has a very intuitive, easy-to-use interface, and carries out the most common tasks with ease. It doesn't need to be difficult - you want to find the files you don't need, and get rid of them, to allow your mac to get back to speed.

When I helped my daughter clean her laptop, I found a definite improvement in speed after using a duplicate file cleaner. We freed up space on her hard disk, and enjoyed the fast system speeds that were back again.

Source: EzineArticles

How to Re-Install Windows XP

There are many reasons why you would want to re-install Windows XP. Some people do not like the Windows Vista operating system, or are concerned about compatibility issues with other computers running Windows XP on the same network. Others may have been running Windows XP previously, but need to re-install the operating system due to a crash.

Instructions

1. Be sure that you have the original CDs that contain the Windows XP operating system. The disks should also include a product key somewhere, which you will need to complete the installation. The product key is sometimes found on a sticker on the disk sleeve or inside the manual booklet.

2. Check to see if you have Internet Explorer 7 installed on your computer. If you do, uninstall it before attempting to re-install Windows XP. You cannot re-install the Windows XP operating system if you have Internet Explorer 7 installed on your computer.

3. Re-boot your computer. When it starts up, insert your Windows XP installation CD into the CD drive.

4. Select "Upgrade" in the welcome window that appears next, and then click "Next."

5. Review the License Agreement. If you agree, check the box that states that you accept the agreement, and click "Next."

6. Input the product key from the back of your disk sleeve or the inside of your operating system manual. Take care to input the product key correctly.

7. Select from several options about how and where you want Windows XP to be installed on your computer, and click "Next." Windows XP will then complete the installation process.

8. Re-install other software that was removed during the installation process, and transfer your personal files from your removable media back to your machine.

Source: Ehow

Slick-looking, less bloated operating system

MICROSOFT HAS promised a completely new experience with Windows 8, with the operating system “reimagined” from the chipset up. The company was keen for conference attendees to get hands-on experience with the operating system, handing out Samsung tablets running Windows 8.

The machines were described as “developer preview” tablets and there is no guarantee that they will become widely available, but it gave a good idea of exactly what the operating system can do.

The first thing you notice about Windows 8 is how quickly it starts up. Microsoft demonstrated the same speed on a variety of different machines at the preview day on Monday, so it’s safe to say that the operating system will be a faster boot across the board.

The second most striking thing is the absence of the traditional desktop. Interaction with the operating system starts with the lock screen, which can be personalised for users to include, everything from the background image to gesture-based unlock codes.

With the expanse of desktop now relegated to an app, just like any other, the traditional pop-up Start menu has also been binned.

To access your applications, you now have a series of tiles, similar to Windows Phone 7. Like the phone operating system too, tiles are dynamic, which means you get information without having to open up your applications.

The preview tablet was a Samsung 11.6in tablet with a dock that provides users with ethernet, USB and HDMI, as well as a way to charge the device. It was also supplied with a keyboard, to demonstrate just how easy it is to use traditional inputs on the new operating system.

The Metro-style user interface seen on the tablet isn’t just for mobile devices. This is how Windows will look, in all its tiled glory, on every device.

If you have a touch-enabled device, you can use gestures such as swiping left to right to flick back through open applications. With a mouse, the scroll wheel does that job instead. You choose which you’d rather use, but the basics of the system remain the same regardless.

On the touch interface, you get to choose your style of input too, whether it’s a regular qwerty keyboard, a split keyboard or handwriting recognition. Unlike some handwriting recognition apps, the Windows 8 version is pretty accurate.

The Metro-style apps are more immersive than what you’re used to from Windows too, with Microsoft taking away the chrome to give apps even more screen space.

As on a PC, you can multi-task easily and flipping back through your apps is done with yet another touch gesture – swiping from left to right.

A new capability called “contracts” means that apps will be able to share content, or be used as a conduit for sharing, without the developer having to allow such sharing for each individual service or app. For the most part, this was effortless, although there were a few hiccups in testing.

Will it, as Windows claims, change everything? It’s too early to say yet, but the end result is a slick-looking operating system that is also a little less bloated than the previous versions of Windows. That can only be a positive thing.

Source : irishtimes.com

New computer operating system brings NSW Police Force into the 21st Century

The state’s crime fighters have received a significant boost with NSW Police Force introducing a new 21st-century computer operating system.

In 2009, NSWPF and Fujitsu Australia started work on modernising the Computerised Operational Policing System (COPS) – a 15-year-old DOS type program used by more than 15,000 officers to record crime information, intelligence and legal proceedings.

Following extensive consultation with frontline police, thousands of hours of testing and successful pilots at six key sites, NSWPF has now implemented WebCOPS.

The new purpose-built system incorporates a user-friendly graphical interface and more commonly used web functionality.

WebCOPS is integrated seamlessly with other NSWPF internet-based systems and allows police to generate and view multimedia files, including offender photographs and electronic evidence.

NSWPF Deputy Commissioner (Corporate Services) Catherine Burn said the benefits of the new core operating system will be enormous.

“The old COPS served the Force well for 15 years but really was nearing the end of its life,” Deputy Commissioner Burn said.

“The text-only was not able to meet our ever-growing demands and that, along with its inability to record, store and display multimedia material, drove us to look for a new alternative,” she said.

NSW police officers currently create 1.5million events on COPS annually – taking, on average, 24 minutes per event.

“WebCOPS will improve the speed and quality of information recorded and its integration with other policing programs will negate the need for officers to log in and out of different systems, saving them time,” Deputy Commissioner Burn said.

“That will effectively mean police will spend less time behind their desks and more time out on the street.”

WebCOPS will retain the strong security and audit capability of the old COPS, ensuring NSWPF complies with its legislative requirements.

“WebCOPS has brought our core operating system into the 21st century. It is the first phase of a program of works that will continue to bring operational policing and new technology together,” Deputy Commissioner Burn said.

“We have built a solid platform which we can further enhance and integrate with our other systems, giving frontline police access to better quality information and saving crucial time.

Source : police.nsw

PlayBook OS version 2 coming next month

During RIM’s disappointing Q2 earnings call this evening, Co-CEO Jim Balsillie confirmed that a major feature update to the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet would be arriving next month. The update to version 2.0 will be shown off at the BlackBerry DevCon event in October and will be made available shortly thereafter. The BlackBerry PlayBook launched back in April and was immediately criticized for its half-baked firmware and a slew of missing native apps. The new version of the PlayBook’s QNX-based operating system will finally address most of these issues and will bring the long overdue native email, contacts, and calendar functionality.

Additionally, the update will bring the promised Android App Player that will allow the PlayBook to run Android apps. RIM will also be adding a BlackBerry Video Store, which will bring over 10,000 movies and TV shows to the PlayBook.

via CrackBerry

Change your Operating System

After using the same operating system for a while, it can be an exciting challenge to try something new. For example, an increasing number of Windows users have migrated to Linux-based systems like Ubuntu. Also, many Microsoft Vista customers have downgraded to Windows XP because of Vista's documented bugs and security vulnerabilities. Whatever the reason for changing your operating system, it's really not that difficult to make a switch. Here are a few steps to help you install a new operating system in your personal computer.

How to Install the New Operating System

1. Load the installation disk into the CD/DVD drive and then restart the computer.

2. Allow the operating system to format and partition the hard drive with the default settings. If you are familiar with partitioning a hard drive, you can also choose to manually partition the drive.

3. Enter a user name and password when prompted. It's very important for security purposes that you set up an administrative account.

4. Select programs and services. Some distributions allow you to choose which software packages will be installed. If you don't feel comfortable selecting packages, accept the defaults.

5. Select your time zone and language preferences. You may also be prompted to select a keyboard layout.

6. Wait for the installation to complete, remove the installation disk and then restart the computer.

7. Install additional hardware drivers, if prompted, and then load your personal data and files into the new operating system.

Article Source: Ehow

How to Fix Windows Installer Error 1601

When installing applications via the Microsoft Windows Operating System, you may have encountered an error called "Windows Error Message 1601." According to Microsoft, this error occurs for one of two reasons. The first reason being that you are trying to install an application while in safe mode; the second possibility is that the Windows Installer is not properly installed. In either case, the fix for the 1601 error is possible using two different methods.


Error 1601 Main Fix for Windows XP and 2000

* 1 Click the Start button in Windows XP and go to the "Run" option.
* 2 Type the following code into the Run box: msiexec /unreg, and then press the "OK" key.
* 3 Next, click on the "Start" button again followed by "Run" option, and this time, type "msiexec /regserver" again with the quotation marks followed by the "OK" key. Attempt to install your application again to see if the process has completed successfully.


Windows XP Error 1601 Secondary Fix For XP and 2000

* 1 Click on the Windows Start button and then click the "Run" option. In the run field, type "CMD," and then click the "OK" button. The MS DOS window should now appear with a blinking cursor.
* 2 Type in the following command: "msiexec /unregister" and then click the "Enter" key
* 3 Type the code: msiexec /regserver followed by "Enter" one last time. Check if your install will now work at this point; the installer should now have unregistered and registered in a work manner.


Microsoft Windows Vista Error 1601 Fix

* 1 Click on the Windows Start button. In the Windows Start Search box, type the following code: %windir%\system32\msiexec /unregserver, and then press the "Enter" key.
* 2 Next, go back to the Windows Start button and then to the Windows Start Search box and type: %windir%\system32\msiexec /regserver followed by the "Enter" key again.
* 3 Enter your admin password if your system asks for the password (This may not occur). Finally, click on the "Allow" option to finish the process. Attempt to install your application to test if the process worked.

How to Reinstall the Vista OS

Although the Microsoft Windows operating system has become more stable with every version released, there are still times when you may encounter issues. Viruses and spyware, hardware failure, and even improper shutdowns can result in a damaged system. If your computer's installation of the Windows Vista operating system isn't working properly, or if you'd just like to start fresh, you can perform a reinstallation of the Vista operating system.

Instructions


Insert the Windows Vista installation disc and restart your computer. You will likely be prompted to "Press any key to boot from CD or DVD." If you see this prompt, press "Enter" to continue starting from the installation disc.


Click the "Install Now" button.


Click "Go Online to Get the Latest Updates for Installation" if your computer is connected to the Internet. If your computer isn't connected to the Internet, or if you prefer to update later, click "Do Not Get the Latest Updates for Installation."


Type your Windows Vista product key into the text boxes on the "Type your Product Key for Activation" page.


Click "I Accept the License Terms."


Choose "Custom" when prompted to choose the type of installation you want to perform.

Choose the appropriate disk on which to install Vista, then click "Next." In most cases, this will be the partition that has the largest number listed in the "Total Size" field.


Click "OK" when you receive a prompt that "The partition you selected might contain files from a previous Windows installation."

Read more: http://goo.gl/7tvWN

Linux, The Free Operating System for Your Computer

If you have taken the time to read my bio you will notice that I'm biased towards the belief that computer operating systems should be inexpensive or even better, free. Several years ago I stumbled upon Unix while working out in the field as a computer support specialist. I became fascinated by this different type of operating system controlling one of the servers at a client's place of business. Wanting to know more I decided to do some research as to what Unix was all about. It was during this time I was introduced to the world of free operating systems and free software.

I have spent a great deal of time researching all the information I could find on why someone would go to the trouble of creating an operating system that he would give away for free. It is through this research that I discovered a whole community of people dedicated to ensuring the Linux operating system would remain free as well as free software to go with it. These people remain, to this day, dedicated to improving Linux as well as creating software that meets or exceeds the needs of the those choosing to use the above.

Ubuntu is just one such version of Linux that is fast becoming the most user friendly operating systems. Ubuntu comes packaged with software most used by all of us. You will find applications such as Open Office, equivalent to the Windows version of Microsoft Office. You will find everything from games to Internet browsers, programming to sound and video and much much more. All of this free and supported. Have a problem with a certain software package? You will find the answers available only a few keystrokes away. Type your problem in a browser and you will find a forum or website with the answer. If the answer isn't there, just submit your request for help and someone will be eager to help you.

Since Ubuntu Linux is free and open source this means the program coding is also accessible. For those who are familiar with programming, this becomes a great advantage to changing the operating system or software as you see fit. Another advantage is that you can get involved by providing feedback as to your likes or dislikes. If you are a programmer you can tweak some of the software and submit it to be passed along to other like minded people wanting to see that Linux and the software packages remain free to use for everyone.

Article Source: http://goo.gl/QQFlo

Swap Your Operating System From Microsoft Windows to Free Linux

The majority of computer users have Microsoft Windows operating system on their computers. It is true that Microsoft dominates the market... but have you considered other operating systems? This isn't a plug for any particular operating system but if you are considering purchasing a new computer because the old one has slowed to a crawl or you are fed up with virus or malware issues then think about swapping operating systems.

In fact it really isn't. Back in the day when Linux was young you were really super cool if you could figure out how to install the stinkin' thing. Now you can choose a variety of flavors of Linux and the installs are typically easy plug-n-play type installs. Linux has a tendency to be a much smaller install than Windows. I like the Ubuntu Linux... it is FREE and the install is typically trouble free.

If you are used to Windows, you can setup Linux and the "KDE" (K-Desktop) or "Gnome" interfaces which are fairly intuitive if you are used to Windows. As far as applications if you have been using Microsoft Office... install the free OpenOffice.org which is MS Office compatible. If you don't want to "lose" your Windows, you can either create a multi-boot system, allowing you to swap between Windows and Linux, or you can use a virtual machine host like VMWare and run Linux under Windows or vice-versa. If you are experimenting use the free VMWare server do a few installs tweak settings and get comfortable with swapping OS's.

Read more: http://goo.gl/E4okU

Android OS Features !!

The Android operating system is based on the free, open-source GNU/Linux operating system. The system itself is a Java VM running on top of the Linux kernel, creating an extensible and highly configurable environment. Developers have taken advantage of this to rapidly expand the features of Android and create a smartphone operating system with a lot packed into its shell.

User Interface

The user interface, or UI, takes mostly touchscreen input. While many Android device manufacturers add a custom software keyboard of their own, the default Android keyboard provides for quick, intuitive text input. When working with text, Android supports multi-touch screens that allow for pinch-to-zoom and multi-finger selection. Since the interface is designed to be universal across the entire system, users experience a single user interface for all interactions with their devices. This reduces Android's learning curve for non-advanced users.

Communication

The latest version of Android, version 2.3, brings native Session Initiation Protocol, or SIP, support to the system, enabling Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP. Additionally, the native email client in Android supports Push, enabling up-to-date email. While Google provides Talk, a Google Talk app for chatting with other Gmail users, there is not additional built-in instant messaging protocol support. However, there are a number of third-party apps that provide AIM, ICQ, MSN and other popular chat protocols.

Media

Depending on the smartphone's processor, Android can play and record high-definition video. Both the popular MP4 and H.264 mobile video formats are supported, and other applications provide additional codec support. Android also comes with the ability to play a number of audio formats, including AAC, MP3, FLAC and others. As of Android 2.3, the operating system not only supports a digital camera, but also has native support for two cameras to facilitate video calling.

Read more: http://goo.gl/OC0E3

How to Reinstall the Operating System on an HP

Reinstalling the operating system on your HP computer is often a last resort to clear out a nasty virus or breathe some life into an aging computer. Reinstalling the system can return the HP to a like-new state, removing the sludge that builds up after years of computing. Luckily the process is fairly simple and streamlined and only requires you have the installation disc provided with your computer.

Instructions

Insert the Windows installation disc into the computer's disc drive. Select "Install Now" on the window that pops up.


Select the option to download any available updates from Microsoft. This ensures you are running the latest version of the operating system.


Enter your Product Key as prompted. This will either be on the disc's packaging or on the computer itself.


Accept the End User License Agreement. Select "Custom" installation. Select your current Windows partition (C: drive) as the installation destination.


Select "Next" to begin the installation. Follow the remaining on-screen instructions. Once installation completes, the computer will restart. Remove the installation disc as the computer reboots. The HP will launch into your newly reinstalled operating system.


Read more: http://goo.gl/PZ8Qg

How to Reinstall Video Drivers to Repair Video Problems

Sometimes you have to reinstall your video driver to resume video playback on your computer. Video drivers need to be updated and reinstalled constantly, and it's very important to take meticulous care when dealing with video drivers. Let's go over a comprehensive method for identifying and fixing problems related to video drivers.

So, what are Video Drivers?

First, let's go over what video drivers do. When your hardware manufacturer built the graphics card, it did so with the intention of facilitating use for as many customers as possible. As a result, manufacturers have to cater to people who are using many different operating systems.

Not every operating system works the same. In fact, although the base code for Windows has stayed the same for decades, advanced and future code bases alter the code environment markedly. As a result, manufacturers rely on drivers to translate their hardware's processes to the operating system. Through drivers, the operating system channels the hardware and enables its use.

So, drivers are essentially bits of code that work to create connections between the hardware and the operating system.

Why It's Necessary to Update Drivers

If a driver isn't functioning properly, then your operating system basically won't be able to recognize the hardware you are trying to run. So, your video drivers need to be constantly updated so that your machine can play video.

Whether you're running Windows Media Player, WinDVD, iTunes, or any other video playback software, updated video drivers are constantly working to deliver a consistent refresh rate for smooth video performance.

Why do Drivers become Outdated?

Drivers can become outdated for many reasons. If you upgrade your operating system, it's likely that some of your drivers will become outdated. This is because new operating systems have different protocols for drivers. However, drivers can become outdated for reasons unbeknownst to anyone. Fortunately, Windows does a good job of telling you that a driver isn't working, although sometimes it's difficult to understand why.

You can check the status of all of your drivers by opening the Device Manager, located within Windows 7 Control Panel. Once you've opened Control Panel, click on System and Security. Here, you can open Device Manager. Device Manager will display all of the hardware currently installed on your computer. A yellow exclamation mark next to any piece of hardware indicates problems with that hardware.

Using Windows Update for New Drivers

You can use Windows Update to locate new drivers and install them. It's fairly easy to use this tool to update your drivers. Here's how:

Click "Start."

In the "Start" search box, type in "Windows Update."

The search box will display "Windows Update" as a search result. Click on this search result.

Click "Check for Updates" on the left side of the window.

Click checkboxes next to all of the updates you'd like to install.

Click "OK."

Click "Install Updates."

This process should help you install necessary updates. However, there are some programs that are built to actually fix all of your driver problems at once. Windows Update is known to only fix problems that have already occurred.

Finding Great Programs for Driver Updates

It's a good idea to prevent driver errors before they even happen. This is why it's important to download and install a program that will scan your system for drivers and install any necessary drivers quickly. Many programs out there do this, but only choose a driver update program.

Article Source: http://goarticles.com/article/How-to-Reinstall-Video-Drivers-to-Repair-Video-Problems/3957935/

Windows 8 – After Windows 7

As Microsoft is wrapping up Windows 7, with the release to manufacturing deadline just around the corner and the general availability deadline set for October 22, the company is also looking forward to the next version of Windows. In this context, the software giant already confirmed officially that planning for Windows 8 had started long before Windows 7 was even close to Release Candidate stage. At the same time, Microsoft has also started hiring people to work on specific future features that will end up in Windows 8.

Still, don't expect the Redmond company to come out with details just yet. But there is some talk of where Windows is heading. Following the release of Windows Vista, questions and speculation began to circulate on whether the successor of Windows XP was the last mammoth Windows release that Microsoft would produce. Microsoft Chief Executive Officer Steve Ballmer denied the possibility, and Windows 7 proves that it wasn't the case. Windows 8 will not stray far from the client-side operating system concept that Microsoft has been executing with each release.

Ray Ozzie, Microsoft chief software architect, managed to offer confirmation of this to BBC. Asked whether Windows 7 would be the last dedicated version of Windows that Microsoft would release, Ozzie replied “No, by no means.”

“Windows 7 is a tremendously exciting release. It has many innovations in the real of Natural User Interfaces and other such things. Computers will always need an operating system. Something that makes it very friendly for users to use. The nature of the operating system is indeed changing because of the ubiquity and utility of the Internet. The operating system is increasingly connected to those activities that happen on the Internet. Windows plus Windows Live deliver that within Windows 7 and that kind of integration of experience just gets better and better over time.”

At the same time, the man who replaced Bill Gates at the lead of Microsoft along with Craig Mundie, chief research and strategy officer, doesn't see a prevalence of Cloud platforms over client-side operating system. You'll see the combination of desktop-based, phone-based and TV-based systems that are all connected to the net. We don't do everything that we do in a browser. When we have phones we carry those phones with us and we do activities on those. PCs have very useful things that we do on the PC, just tremendous experiences. Same with the television. We have yet to see even the beginnings of the kind of innovation that we're going to have when every television itself becomes a computer that's connected to the Internet.

Source: http://goo.gl/PMQLK

How to Upgrade Your Computer Operating System

There may be good reasons to upgrade your computer operating system (OS), especially if you are still using outdated system on your PC. You could decide to upgrade your operating system to a newer version or even completely to a different one or just to have a completely new version of a particular one.

Each time the world's most recognized computer companies comes up with a new version of operating system, so many people always wonder if they should change their present OS. Whatever decision you take is completely up to you. But you should never forget that to UPGRADE your now older version is going to cost you extra money, especially when the new version is still new in the market.

You should never forget that Older computer operating system can't just handle the new OS, mainly due to size and compatibility requirements. So you do need to think of this first. Let's say you've got a PC with only 512 megabytes of memory, you certainly won't be able to upgrade Windows 98 to a newer version with much success.

It is easy to Upgrade your computer operating system than most people think. But the first thing you must have to do is to save all your existing data just in case your Upgrade fails to work. Lots of downloadable programs are available on the web today that can assist you in doing this. Norton Ghost and SOS Backup are just two of them.

To Upgrade your older version on your computer with the new Operating System after backing up all your original system files, simply insert the disc which normally comes with every new computer operating system. Your Upgrading will instantly begin. You may have to answer few simple questions that'll come up on your screen whenever they appear. Bear in mind that Upgrading your system do take a lot of time. So be ready to waste that time while waiting for the installation to complete and never turn off your computer while this is still in progress.

After installing the new software, just have some fun playing around with it. If it fails to satisfy your test or requirements, you can still remove the new OS. Just use the Backup Disc to reinstall your system to the older Operating System. Don't forget that any existing software you had on your computer must be reinstalled after upgrading your system.

Source: http://goo.gl/0zEsY

Android, BlackBerry and Windows Phone 7 Smartphone and Operating System Comparison

Here is a comparison of three Smartphones by three different manufactures with three different operating systems, to see which Smartphone comes out on top and for what reasons. For a fair comparison, the comparison is broken down into four categories which include the handset design, operating system, multimedia features and technology.

The Smartphone's in question include the HTC 7 Mozart (a Windows Phone 7 Smartphone), the BlackBerry Torch 9800 (which runs on the BlackBerry operating system) and the Samsung I9000 Galaxy S (which is powered by Android).

Handset Design

The HTC 7 Mozart has a touch screen form casing with a 3.7 inch widescreen WVGA touch screen. Its casing weighs 130 grams and measures 11.9cm by 6.02cm by 1.19cm and it has a brushed aluminium casing with a stunning swirl effect etched into the back of the casing.

The BlackBerry Torch 9800 has a slide opening form casing with a HVGA touch screen measuring 3.7 inches in size. Its casing weighs 161.1 grams and it measures 11.1cm by 6.2cm by 1.46cm plus it comes in a dark grey coloured casing with stylish chrome effect edging. This is the only Smartphone with a slide out full QWERTY keyboard.

The Samsung I9000 Galaxy S Smartphone has a touch screen form designed casing complete with a 4 inch super AMOLED display. The casing weighs 118 grams and measures 12.24cm by 6.42cm by 0.99cm and it comes with a sleek black coloured exterior.

In conclusion to the handset design the Samsung I9000 Galaxy S is a clear winner due to it having the largest and clearest touch screen. It is the lightest Smartphone to hold although it has the widest casing design due to its larger screen, plus this is the most stylish and attractive handset of the three.

Operating System

The 7 Mozart supports a Microsoft Windows Phone 7 operating system with an easy to use user interface which supports many apps including a HTC Hub app and social network integration. The tile layout interface is extremely user friendly and the touch screen is highly responsive.

The Torch comes with a BlackBerry 6 operating system complete with a BlackBerry use interface which is easy to use and operate especially for BlackBerry users. It has a user friendly interface and a classic BlackBerry style and performance.

The Galaxy S however comes with an Android operating system and with a fun user interface, complete with a colourful and customisable home screen and highly useable user interface.

In conclusion to operating system it would be a tie between the Galaxy S and the 7 Mozart, as both Android and Windows Phone 7 are so much fun to use and offer the user a great range of apps and most importantly provide high quality usability.

Multimedia

The HTC 7 Mozart has a built in music player and supports a Zune music hub plus it comes with high quality SRS surround sound support and Dolby mobile. It has a8 megapixel camera with video record support. There is a built in video player and it supports amazing gaming thanks to its Xbox LIVE integration.

The BlackBerry Torch 9800 has an integrated media player which supports music and video playback plus there is a colourful album art display provided and a track listing function. It has a 5 megapixel camera lens with flash, zoom and image stabiliser. Games can be downloaded and the Torch provides a fun gaming experience.

The Samsung I9000 Galaxy S comes with a music player which has easy to use touch screen controls plus album art display and music storage facility. There is a 5 megapixel camera which comes with an automatic focus, smile detection, LED flash and video recording capabilities. Video playback and downloadable games provide more entertainment on this Smartphone.

In conclusion the HTC 7 Mozart is the hands down winner regarding multimedia features as it comes with an amazing digital camera feature, highest quality sound features and highly useable and an outstanding gaming experience via Xbox LIVE.

Technology

The 7 Mozart supports 3G HSDPA, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and assisted GPS navigation with Bing™ maps. It has 8 gigabytes of internal memory plus 512 megabytes of ROM and 576 megabytes of RAM. Talk time can vary depending on features being used but approximately 5.5 hours of talk time can be gained over a 3G network.

The Torch 9800 supports many technologies including 3G HSDPA and HSUPA, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and assisted GPS with BlackBerry maps. It has 512 megabyte of internal memory plus comes with a 4 gigabyte memory card and will support up to 32 gigabytes via its memory card slot. An estimated 5.8 hours of 3G talk time can be expected from a fully charged battery.

The I9000 Galaxy S Smartphone supports 3G HSDPA and HSUPA, Wi-Fi technology, Bluetooth technology and assisted GPS with Google Maps. It is available in two memory options which include a 8 or 16 Gigabyte internal memory option plus it can hold up to 32 gigabytes of external memory via its memory card slot. It battery provides an estimated 6. 3 hours of talk time over a 3G network but this can vary depending on features being used.

The technology category is the hardest to judge as all three Smartphone have similar or identical technologies and capabilities, but in conclusion to technology features the Samsung I9000 Galaxy S would have to be the winner as the assisted GPS navigation was preferred with Google Maps support, and its memory option was large providing ideal storage for the Smartphone.

Source: http://goo.gl/ouD0b

Creating a Hidden Operating System

Most people will wonder why a person need's a secondary operating system. But if your are sharing a computer with another person nor you are been held up for your valuable information on your computer or laptop that would be a worse case scenario as they might steal nor copy your valuable information.

If your traveling overseas and your laptop need to be search then having a decoy operating system would come in-handy. The truecrypt will create a decoy operating system that will allow you to have two operating system on a single laptop or computer.

The system is plain simple it helps you keep all your important document in another operating system allowing you to have another plain operating system that only has normal document as a decoy and this will be a life saver even your computer is been hacked nor been infected by virus as the operating system is installed on a different patition of the computer.

Not only that it comes with different login and password to access the two operating system. You can use it for multiple boot from any operating system that is available in the market.

What good a secondary operating system does:

- Creates a virtual encrypted disk within a file and mounts it as a real disk.
- Encrypts an entire partition or storage device such as USB flash drive or hard drive.
- Encrypts a partition or drive where Windows is installed (pre-boot authentication).
- Encryption is automatic, real-time (on-the-fly) and transparent.

It provides two levels of plausible deniability, in case an adversary forces you to reveal the password:

1) Hidden volume (steganography) and hidden operating system.

2) No TrueCrypt volume can be identified (volumes cannot be distinguished from random data).
even by searching the hold hard drive.

Files can be copied to and from a mounted TrueCrypt volume just like they are copied to/from any normal disk simply by drag-and-drop operations. Files are automatically being decrypted on-the-fly while they are being read or copied from an encrypted TrueCrypt volume. Similarly, files that are being written or copied to the TrueCrypt volume are automatically being encrypted on-the-fly in RAM.

Source: http://goo.gl/qQ6oo

How Can an Operating System Slow Down a Computer?

I was asked an interesting question recently. It is not only an interesting question but it is a very important one. The answer makes it easy to understand what happens to a computer that becomes slow or sluggish. Hopefully, this article will answer this question and point you in the right direction to help keep your computer fast.

The question was asked by a young woman who had talked to a geek friend of hers. This fellow told her it was her operating system making her computer respond slowly. He suggested she backup all her files, reformat her hard drive, and reinstall her operating system.

How an Operating System Slows Computer Processes

Actually, I believe his method would work but I know there is an easier way. Before I get into this easier way, let's talk about two ways an operating system can slow down a PC. They are:

Upgrading to the operating system with an older PC and,

Having registry corruption build up in the operating system's registry.

Of course, the first problem can only occur if you have changed the operating system on your PC or upgraded to a newer one. The fact of the matter is each Windows operating system is larger than its predecessor and so the computer ends up with less free resources than it had when the old OS was running it. Fewer resources equals a slower computer; simple.

Registry Develops Corruption

Also, fairly simple is the topic of registry corruption. Every Windows operating system uses a registry to keep track of all parts of the computer. It also keeps track of all files added and moved on your hard drive. While this is an oversimplified explanation of a Windows registry, it does show that everything you do on your computer goes through the registry.

There are millions of steps needed to perform computer operations. Over time, registry files become bloated. Because of this, the steps needed to do operations can multiply. The result of this multiplication is your computer needing to wait as your microprocessor looks long and hard in the registry to find what it needs. The computer would have been able to do this operation quickly if the registry had all its fat cut out.

The Registry is an Integral Part of the OS

The registry clearly is a part of the operating system and when it needs to be cleaned out, it will cause the computer to be slow. It may also cause a computer to freeze and crash.

Spyware, adware, viruses and other parasites will also cause a computer to slow down. However, they are not part of the operating system; they are programs. They run without you realizing it and use your computer resources. In other words, they steal the computer's speed.

Source: http://goo.gl/2dJCH

Tips to Reinstall Windows XP

First, locate the Windows CD that shipped with your PC, along with the CDs for your application software. If you downloaded your antivirus, firewall, or other programs, copy those downloads to a CD or to some other type of removable media. (If your system didn't ship with a Windows CD, your reinstallation files are situated on your hard drive; I'll describe how to access them in just a minute.) Also, dig up the instructions that your ISP sent you for configuring your network settings, and keep them close at hand.

Copy the contents of your 'C:\Documents and Settings' folder (or whichever folder you store your personal files on) to a CD or other removable medium. Then grab any other critical data and back it up. It helps to collect the installers for the latest drivers for your PC's graphics card and other hardware, too.

Ready to Reinstall

Now insert the Windows CD that came with your PC, and reboot your system. If you didn't receive a Windows disc with your machine, the files you need are sitting in a hidden partition on your hard drive. To access them, press the keys indicated on your screen when you reboot, but before Windows loads. The keys differ from vendor to vendor, so contact your PC's manufacturer if you don't see the prompt.

In many instances, the only available option is 'Return the drive to its factory condition', which destroys all documents, photos, and other data files on your PC. That's why you made a copy of your data folders.

You get more options--including the ability to preserve your files and settings--when you use Microsoft's own Windows XP installation disc. Make your selection, and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the reinstallation.

Starting Over

Regardless of which option you choose, you'll have to reconfigure your network connections, reinstall some of your device drivers, and update XP and your applications manually.
To configure your Internet connection, right-click My Network Places, click Create a new connection, and follow the prompts, entering the appropriate information you received from your ISP.

Once you've re-established your Internet link, you must reinstall and update your firewall, anti virus and antispyware programs.

Next, check to see which of your device drivers need updates: Right-click My Computer and select Properties, Hardware, Device Manager. Look for entries with yellow question marks or red exclamation points. A question mark indicates that Windows is using a generic driver for that device instead of one specifically designed for it; an exclamation point means that the device is not working.

The drivers for graphics boards, sound cards, and printers are most likely to need an update. If you haven't already done so, visit the vendors' Web sites to download updated drivers to your PC. Run the installer for each updated driver, allowing XP to reboot when needed, or right-click the entry in Device Manager, choose Update Driver, and step through the wizard, selecting No, not this time to the Windows Update question, and choosing the specified location option when it appears. When you can navigate to the driver file, select it and click OK to install it. When you finish updating your drivers, close all open windows.

Updates Galore

Your next stop is Microsoft's Windows Update site. Click Start, Windows Update, and follow the prompts. Since you'll probably be downloading many megabytes of updates, you might want to find yourself a good book or seek some other diversion while you wait.

When the downloading is complete, you'll be ready to reinstall and update your applications. Don't forget to update your critical apps as well. Microsoft Office, in particular has some important updates. Download them at the Microsoft Office Online Downloads page.

Once you've restored your applications, begin replacing your data. The first priorities are the My Documents and Application Data folders, which you'll find in the folder with your logon name inside 'C:\Documents and Settings'. To bring back your Internet Explorer favorites, restore the contents of the Favorites folder. Also restore the Shared Data and Application Data folders inside 'C:\Documents and Settings\Shared Documents'. Once you've reintroduced all of your data, your Windows refresh will be complete.

Resource: pcworld.com