Re: [CGUYS] The AOL LISTSERV is back up. Let's see if it works.
I presume you mean 'signed-on to Yahoo mail'. I do not use Yahoo mail, but I believe that there will not be an issue here. When your Yahoo mail receives the CGUYS posting as an email, if you have set it up for POP3 or similar access, then you should be able to retrieve any email that you didn't delete before running "Get Mail" from your mail client. - B On 6/13/2010 3:18 PM, John Emmerling wrote: Is it possible to be signed up on Yahoo and simultaneously get the messages in one's (non-Yahoo) e-mail? On Sun, Jun 13, 2010 at 3:11 PM, Brian Joneswrote: Me too. I left it turned on as well. - Brian On 6/13/2010 1:11 PM, tjpa wrote: On Jun 12, 2010, at 10:06 PM, Fred Holmes wrote: Well, if the AOL Listserv is back up, this message should be distributed. Yes, I got it. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] The AOL LISTSERV is back up. Let's see if it works.
Me too. I left it turned on as well. - Brian On 6/13/2010 1:11 PM, tjpa wrote: On Jun 12, 2010, at 10:06 PM, Fred Holmes wrote: Well, if the AOL Listserv is back up, this message should be distributed. Yes, I got it. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Windows 7, 32-bit or XP
I purchased the Retail Win7 and it came with both 32 bit and 64bit disc's. For kicks, I installed the 32 bit in an extra partition to test some older software (DOS based) and it worked well! I'll bet that Dell or Gateway will put a 32bit opsys on a new machine if you order on the phone. - Brian Jones On 5/7/2010 9:47 AM, Stephen Brownfield wrote: It is time for a client of mine to get a new Computer. His adaptive keyboard works only with a 32-bit OS (Windows or Mac). His screen reader works only with windows. Thus I need to get a Windows computer running a 32-bit OS. With the adaptive software and hardware this computer is most likely going to cost $2k plus! When I look online to get prices all the Windows 7 computers say that they are 64-bit. How hard will be to get the 32-bit version? I could go with a computer running XP, but I'm afraid that that he would then he would start to run into problems a year or two down the road. Thanks Steve * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] security softward - trendmicro - any information?
I was recently installing Trend Micro's AV for a customer when an error occurred. When tried to uninstall to start over, there was no uninstall routine available. So I re-ran the install and got more errors (different from the prior time). I repeated the cycle and it continued to get worse. When I went to their website and knowledge base, it was difficult to find the instructions for a manual uninstall, and the instructions I found did not work.. it still would not install correctly. Finally, (for times sake) I convinced the customer to use Avast Home instead. I have encountered Trend in reviews and at some business sites; the reviews were always good, the businesses did not have any issues with the protection. I don't know why I had this problem, and don't care enough to pursue it, nor to recommend it. Brian On 5/4/2010 5:37 PM, Mother Geek wrote: Hi - I have a tech guru who wired my house who suggests dumping McAfee (even before last week's difficulty) and use Microtrend instead Have any of you used this successfully? Is there something else you'd recommend? Thank you. /gayley knight * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Here I am again...in troubles.
Careful there, Marcio! You are sure you are taking about a 'dual boot' and not 'windows XP mode', right? Windows XP mode will use the virtual machine software to share your network adapter with your XP mode virtual machine. It's quirky, but it works somewhat. Do NOT load an ethernet device driver on your XP machine! If you are truly 'dual booting' (you computer asks you which operating system to use when you turn it on), then installing the device drivers is necessary, and should not cause any problems. I say should, because it depends on the writer of the install script... was he careful enough to prevent the install program from finding the other operating system and changing those device drivers. Windows 98 used to do this... if you put 2 copies on one computer, you had to hide the old install from the new install or the new install would damage the registry of the old install. Since Win7 tends to hide it's drives from XP by default, then install Win7 drivers first (you already have), then reboot and install the XP drivers last. Good Luck! -Brian On 4/4/2010 5:47 PM, Marcio wrote: Now I have a new computer Intel Dualcore and Windows 7. Working fine. The guy in the shop convinced me to have dual boot so that now I am able to boot with the old Windows XP or with the new Windows 7. Working OK. But I am scared when it comes connecting top my wireless network with my Linksys Adapter. First I was able to install the Linksys driver when in Windows XP but I had troubles installing and connecting with the network with Windows 7. Finally after uninstalling the driver in Windows XP and boot in Windows 7 and I was able to connect it to the network. It is working fine now. But I am afraid of booting on Windows XP and messing this up. Even more afraid to install the Linksys driver in Windows XP and this creating problems for the connection when booting Windows 7. Should I do it? Can I use the same adapter for both boots? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Help - computer seems infected, going crazy!
Well Rambo, I saw this one on a customers computer last week. It's a tenacious sucker, and yes, it seems to wait a bit before launching after booting in the morning. It traps most operating system calls preventing you from running diagnostic software or restoring your registry to an earlier date. There is good news and bad news... the bad first. You will need to reformat and reload your operating system. The good news: this virus will block all attempts at removal, but it will not interfere with your copying of your important files to a USB drive so: Copy your important files to a backup drive, Look in your owners manual for the sequence to restore your operating system. Go to Windows Update in the Accessories menu (repeatedly) to get your opsys up-to-date. Reload all your favorite programs and files. If you have a Dell, HP, or Compaq, you must hold down an F-key (see owners manual) while booting to discover the hidden partition with your operating system restore files. Older computers will have a disc that came in the box that has the OpSys restore on it. For a few years, computers were delivered without a restore disc, and asked you to make your own (which very few people actually did). For this reason, you can contact the manufacturer and get a restore disc for anywhere from free to $30, depending on the company. There are a few off-brands that don't have a support site, but you can go to special merchants that collect restore disc's and will sell you a set for about $30. Of course, the easiest solution is to drop you machine at a local computer store /repair shop and let them do it.. costs around $100 to $150. Hope this helps! If you give the brand name and model, maybe we can help you find the key-sequence or source disc. Good Luck! - Brian Ranbo wrote: *Since today my Dell desktop is acting crazy. Keeps popping up with messages (every few seconds) that my computer is infected, when I try to run programs it says they are infected, and can't access AVG (says that is affected), can't find Zone Alarm, and several times has brought up an alleged antivirus program called Soft antivirus which starts scanning my files. Actually, not sure if it is really scanning my files or this is their "demonstration." At bottom of screen it is trying to get me to buy this program to disinfect the computer. I don't recall ever having installed this software and can't even find it listed. Can't even go to add or remove hardware. When I'm not on the computer for awhile I notice that it is bringing up webpages (fake pages?) for porn sites, VIagra and other similar stuff. I have no idea what to do to try to remedy this. I'm running Windows XP. Any suggestions would be appreciated. I can connect to the internet and use email, so long as about every 5 seconds I say no to the pop-ups that say my computer is at risk or infiltrated or bring up these websites (using IE, while I am only using FireFox). I keep stopping the scan this new antivirus program seems to be running because I am afraid it itself is a virus, maybe part of a scam to infect the computer in order to get me to buy the software to disinfect it! Help! And thanks * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Are USB Drives Dangerous?
Why don't they simply ban Windows? Wouldn't it be easier to ban war? A security guy on TV last month mentioned a great way to hack into a secure network is the put a stealth program on a bunch of thumb drives and sprinkle them around the parking lot of the facility you want to compromise. At least one idiot will take the thumb drive to his computer and plug it in! - Original Message - From: "tjp" To: Sent: Tuesday, February 23, 2010 10:21 AM Subject: [CGUYS] Are USB Drives Dangerous? http://gcn.com/blogs/quick-study/2010/02/to-usb-or-not-to-usb.aspx?s=gcndaily_230210 "Those little USB thumb drives are very helpful little critters for transporting data easily between one computer and another, you have to admit. However, they are also very useful for introducing malware into a system. That was that the reason the Pentagon banned their use in November 2008, declaring that “Memory sticks, thumb drives and camera flash memory cards have given the adversary the capability to exploit our poor personal practices and have provided an avenue of attack ... malicious software (malware) programmed to embed itself in memory devices has entered our systems." * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Networking Issue
Problem solved... the simple way. The customer had updated the wired device driver, but when she saw no improvement, she reinstalled the original device driver. Updating both the wired Broadcom driver and the Wireless driver together solved the problem. Since it is fixed, I was not able not gather the answers to Rocky Lee's questions. (No doubt this was a problem caused by Windows automatic update). - Brian - Original Message - From: "rocky lee" Subject: Re: [CGUYS] Networking Issue Brian, 1) If you disable the ethernet (local) connection ( not the drivers) for the ethernet port are the results that there is no wireless connection or that the wireless connection works 2) When both are plugged in and you issue an ipconfig command from a command line, do both connections show up with valid IP addresses? 3) Does the ethernet local continue to have an IP address if unplugged? Rocky * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Networking Issue
Great questions... I will reconnect remotely and check it out. - Brian - Original Message - From: "rocky lee" Subject: Re: [CGUYS] Networking Issue Brian, 1) If you disable the ethernet (local) connection ( not the drivers) for the ethernet port are the results that there is no wireless connection or that the wireless connection works 2) When both are plugged in and you issue an ipconfig command from a command line, do both connections show up with valid IP addresses? 3) Does the ethernet local continue to have an IP address if unplugged? Rocky * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
[CGUYS] Networking Issue
I have a customer with an unusual problem... Her Dell Latitude D610 (5 yrs old) has both an Ethernet port and Wireless G. Her wireless did not work until she discovered by accident that it would start working when she disabled the Broadcom drivers for the Ethernet port.I have upgraded her drivers (remotely... she is in Ohio) and the problem is still there. She has a ton of business related software and data, so the erase/reload is not desirable, especially since I don't have the machine in my shop. I suspect either a hardware problem (Windows cannot detect that the Ethernet cable has been unplugged) or registry problem (Windows insists on using the Ethernet port even when unplugged). First, how does Windows decide which network connection to favor, and second, are there switches somewhere in the registry that may have been damaged? - Brian * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] STRANGE VIRUS?
This thread is disturbing to Gail and not yet very helpful. Let me put a better spin on it. I repair peoples virus riddled computers daily, hooking them up to my 'unsecured' network without issues. In the past I have cleaned them first before connecting them to the network, but more recently I have trusted my virus scanners and automatic updates from Microsoft to keep me safe. Occasionally one of my networked computers will flag an unsuccessful attempt to infect my computer, but it is rare. For Gail: 1) There is a reason his computer is being infected, and he needs to find out why. 2) When you reformat and do a clean install of the operating system, the boot sector will be overwritten, as well as any boot sector virus that might have been there. So this is not the source of the 're-infection. 3) Windows 7 with the latest patches and a virus scanner is a VERY secure operating system, so I am betting that the infection is a result of some action that your son is initiating. Does he like file sharing programs to download movies, MP3's, and contraband software? These are known to be unsecure and provide an entry point for infections, typically through an undocumented 'back door'. Norton and McAfee can help scan the streams of data used in Peer to Peer (P2P) computing that may include a trojan. It is best to use P2P software as little as possible.. and don't leave it running all the time! 4) We might be able to give you more specific information if you can get him to do this for you: Go to http://free.antivirus.com/hijackthis/ (by Trend Micro) , download HijackThis and install it on his computer. Wait until he is sure that he has been infected again, run HijackThis and have it dump into a text file a list of all the software that is loading on his computer when it starts each day. Cut and past this list to an email for us to see... it will give us much more info to help track down his unique problem. These $300 'netbooks' are very popular this Christmas because of their price and portability, but beware.. this is a VERY underpowered machine for today's internet environment. Once you load the necessary virus protection software, your netbook will become somewhat sluggish. If you try to run several powerful programs together, it will be even slower. I recommend these machines only for people who want to have a Windows computing environment to carry with them everywhere they go. Don't load it down with unnecessary programs or utilities, and you should get a few years of good service from them. By nature, they will have a shorter lifespan then larger computers, since they are more likely to be dropped or banged up. Good luck to you Gail! - Brian - Original Message - From: "tjpa" Subject: Re: [CGUYS] STRANGE VIRUS? On Dec 21, 2009, at 4:19 PM, db wrote: Sorry for the bad news. It's unlikely that there is an easy or quick solution to your problem. Switch to a Mac and don't install Office. That will make him practically invincible. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Apache on 64-bit Win 7
I believe that Apache IS the Operating System. Windows would not be involved. - B - Original Message - From: "Joe Tseng" Subject: [CGUYS] Apache on 64-bit Win 7 Is there any benefit of using 64-bit Apache on Windows or is installing it a waste of time? Is it compatible with 32-bit PHP? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] In Los Angeles
There may be a phone jack from the old phone system in each room... connect the cable modem's phone line to the wall jack, and all the jacks in the house will be active. You may want to disconnect the old wires going to the outside world, as they cause a reduction in the signal strength. I have seen some printers that don't want to work with networks... but it is rare. I have had some trouble recently with older operating systems mixed with newer opsys not wanting to print on certain printers. Right now, my Epson All-in-one under Win7 will not play on the network with the older Vista computers. Come on, Microsoft... this is not rocket science! This should work! Why do you keep changing the printer network protocols and breaking the printer drivers? - Brian - Original Message - From: "Marcio" To: Sent: Tuesday, November 24, 2009 10:39 AM Subject: [CGUYS] In Los Angeles Here I am in my daughter's place in LA. Can you imagine? Almost was not able to make the trip: from Belo Horizonte to Miami, 7.30 hours...the from Miami to LA 5.30 hours...squeezed there...in the back... But now here I am with my "expertise" trying tp fix their computers. One HP Quadcore and a Toshiba Laptop connedted in a wireless network. At least two problems: 1. They have a Cable Modem and the phone line comes in at the TV room and is not wired through the house. The printer is a all-in-one Epson WorkForce 310. Well in order for the Epson to send faxes we must connect the phone line in the TV room...Not too close...The same to connect the Epson to the network in the modem, who also is there in the TV room? Too complicated to pass these two wires. Any shortcut? 2. The way it is I am trying to make the Laptop to print in the Epsom printer that is connected to the HP...through the wireless network. Have tryig all I think I knew...can't do it!... Help! Is the turkey being prepared? Any advice on how to prepare it? Happy Tnaksgiving, for me the best holiday of them all... Marcio * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
[CGUYS] Fw: [CGUYS] CD differences (?)
This is an old Thread (May 09)... But I have a bit of info that was not mentioned. My nephew purchased an audio CD recorder a few years ago to record music his band was playing. I too thought that any CD will do, but this unit looked for some marker on the CD to indicate that it was an Audio CD before it would write to it. It would reject standard data CD's. So there you have it.. the audio CD has a bit set somewhere that the Audio CD recorder can find, and as Tom says, it indicates that the 'royalties' have been paid in advance. - Brian From: "Tom Piwowar" Subject: Re: [CGUYS] CD differences (?) >So the question is 'What happens if I write an audio content to these purported "data" CDs ?" Audio content is data. The "audio" designation is for discs that include a royalty to the RIAA to cover the cost of all the music they think you will be stealing. Your friend will insist that they bought the music on the vinyl record, but the RIAA insists that all they sold was a license and that this license does not allow copying the music to a CD. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Google Warning...
Google Apps was installed by Google Updater along with all the other Google stuff... Google Updater was installed as a condition for installing Picasa 3. The updater should have asked, but did not. Immediately upon giving permission to install the updater, it began installing everything else... no settings, no questions. As a follow up, I went back to the Google page today where I clicked on Picasa 3. When I clicked on it, it appeared to have the correct install program associated with it, not the updater that I got yesterday. Could it have been a bad link that took me to the wrong software? - Original Message - From: "Tony B" You should only be angry at yourself, as nothing was installed without your permission. But I know it can sometimes be difficult to find all the settings. Google Apps is a way to deploy Google services among many employees. If you saw this installing, you made your mistake before this point. * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Google Warning...
System Restore rolled my system back 2 days and fixed the problem... I also noticed there were 2 Microsoft updates during that period... so Microsoft might have something to do with the printer queue breakdown. I shall get some lunch, and try to get some REAL work accomplished today! * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
[CGUYS] Google Warning...
Now I am mad. At Google. Yesterday, I downloaded Google Screensaver from Google.. But first, Google wanted to install the 'Google updater' to facilitate the download. This is not unusual, as a downloading program can help reduce overhead on their servers, so I agreed. Then the fun starts! The updater checked my system, and then proceeded to install a slew of applications (without my permission) which included Google Earth, Google Toolbar for Internet Explorer, Google Docs, Google Apps (Whatever that is), and since I have a fast computer, it did it all in less than half a minute. It would have installed Chrome, but I already had it. This is my work computer... I don't want all this crap in my machine! Last night, when my wife was trying to print her operative notes from that days surgery, we noticed the printer queue was damaged, so I rebooted. This morning, again, the printer queue is dead... documents appear in the queue, the disappear into the bit bucket, but no hard copy, no errors. This time a reboot did not fix it. What has Google done to my machine! Now I must spend several hours of my work day trying to fix it! Any suggestions would be appreciated. This note is a warning to everyone... deny the Google updater when it asks permission! * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] itunes/ipod touch/remote/library
Oh!... that is VERY cool! Free server and $2.99 for the iTouch application. http://www.simplifymedia.com/blog/?p=68 The user blog mentioned improved stability with V2... have you experienced any issues with your PC's stability? Check out simplify media for pc/mac and ipod touch/iphone. It can stream over wifi/3g. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Wish m luck...
You already have 2 physical drives? (as opposed to logical drives.. C: and D: are logical drive identifiers.. they can be on the same physical drive) If you do, go into your BIOS setup and see if you can select the other one as your boot drive. This is the cheapest and easiest way to dual boot, and eliminate any problems with an additional layer of software. Most computers since 2005 can do this, and many since 1999 also can do this. - Brian - Original Message - From: "Marcio" Brian Time off to sudy this dual boot... I already have a boot C: and a Data D:... I am no sure if I can put a third HD and have he option to boot frm it... Computers are fun...up to a pont... Marcio * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Wish m luck...
We will miss you! ( it may take you a month to get all of your favorite applications running again under Win7... you won't have time for this forum!) I am considering installing Win7rc this myself... my Dell Studio i7 can boot from any drive... so dual boot is the way to go. I will be safe and disconnect my primary drive before installing Win7... I have too often seen the windows install program find my old windows directory and screw it up! - Brian - Original Message - From: "Marcio" Subject: Re: [CGUYS] Wish m luck... Yes, after pondering and pondering... I may do just that. Will lose my Windows Vista (that will have no use) and start wth Windows 7. Perhaps I will nor buy a new drive, just format this one... * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] itunes/ipod touch/remote/library
From what I know of the iTouch, this application you envision has not yet been created. Based on the lack of response to your query since July 1st, I would presume this to be the case. Since iTunes will copy your library to your iTouch, I don't expect to see this niche application anytime soon. - Brian - Original Message - From: "mike" Sent: Wednesday, July 01, 2009 1:59 PM I often use my ipod touch to play music on a computer I have connected to my home stereo..I've been poking around wondering if it's possible to stream from the computer to an ipod touch? I have sharing turned on but I don't get anything on the ipod touch. Is this just not possible or am I missing a setting? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Good idea - manuals online
Most of my new electronics come with a manual on CD... I just copy it to MY DOCUMENTS\MANUALS\ folder. When I move to a new computer, all my manuals come with me. Keeping up with the CD is too much trouble. - Brian * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Databases: Open Office Base?
I have tried to use Open Office to mail merge to email... discovered it was not possible (as of 2008). I suspect there are other shortfalls in Open Office as well. Constance, If this is a paid consult, I would steer them towards the more expensive (but better supported and more reliable) products to help them achieve their mission and reflect better light on yourself. Saving them money is good, but only if you are SURE that it won't backfire on your reputation. - Brian - Original Message - From: "Constance Warner" Subject: [CGUYS] Databases: Open Office Base? Has anyone used Base, the database program of Open Office? If so, what did you think of it? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Norton i.e. bug/virus/trojan
I see this all the time with the FREE virus scanners... it usually means that the scanner was not able to download the latest update on last try... usually because the computer was off or asleep. Once the update runs in the background, the warning goes away. - Brian - Original Message - From: "Christopher Range" Subject: [CGUYS] Norton i.e. bug/virus/trojan Is there a bug/virus/trojan that causes the program to intentionally think, the computer is not protected? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Is M$ Going to Blow it Again?
Each new M$ OpSys has included a price increase... slightly higher than inflation. Why should this one be any different? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Was browsing newegg and this peaked my interest
Interesting... a computer with no PCI expansion slots, and one drive bay. It's like having a laptop in a desktop box! - Brian - Original Message - From: "Paul Cannon" http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16856167037 MSI Wind Nettop 100 Intel 945GC 1 x 200Pin Intel GMA 950 Black Mini / Booksize Barebone System * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Kindle Sighting
Remember the days when your computers' documentation outweighed your computer by about 3 to 1? - Original Message - From: "Tom Piwowar" Are electronic books sufficiently similar to MP3s that they will do to books what MP3s did to CDs? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] How do I change the sizes pf the partirions?
When I first joined this group, it was more about keeping computers running and less about politics (except for the occasional Mac vs. PC tussle). I still love to hear the innovative solutions to common problems, some of which I had not tried yet. Keep the good questions coming! - Brian - Original Message - From: "Marcio" To: Sent: Monday, May 18, 2009 5:25 PM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] How do I change the sizes pf the partirions? Computers are more or less like womem. When they are working well... wonderfull but when they refuse to respond to our needs...it is very hard to understand... You encourage me to participate in this group. Sometimes I fell I am boring you all. Marcio -Original Message- From: Tom Piwowar Sent: May 17, 2009 10:41 PM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] How do I change the sizes pf the partirions? I know, I know...you give a hand and the person wants the arm... Human nature... So far I can´t imagine me moving to a Mac... And it would be so dull around here without your computer adventures. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Cleaning the Inside of a Computer
I am glad you have a clean computer... I believe the excessive dust can interfere with convective airflow which cools the chips... and hot chips mean shorter lifespan for the motherboard. While repairing customers computers, I have been using a 'reversed vacuum' for decades to blow out the box, or if it is really dirty, I gingerly vacuum the heavy deposits before blowing it out. I suspect that the normal vacuum can suck out a component or loosen an wire, or even create a static charge that may damage the motherboard. Blowing does not have this effect, and you don't get as close to the board with a blower. - Brian - Original Message - From: "Alvin Auerbach" To: Sent: Tuesday, May 12, 2009 5:45 PM Subject: [CGUYS] Cleaning the Inside of a Computer My iMac is about 4 years old, and I think that the fan noise is louder than it was originally. I want to open it up and vacuum the dust out of it, but I recall reading that this may make a static electrical charge that could ruin some semiconductors. I would like to know if anyone has personal experience with this, either good or bad (I was going to write positive or negative, but...); or is this just an urban legend? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
[CGUYS] TinEye.com
Interesting tool... Reverse lookup for images! Give it an image, and it can tell you the source. http://tineye.com/ * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Need EMachine W31xx restore disc
Excellent Find! It's worth a try! ... They say they have it... $26.95 including shipping! Thanks, - Brian - Original Message - From: "Jeff Wright" http://www.restoredisks.com/ This is not an endoresement of this service whatsoever, nor do I have any idea if this is legitimate or not, but it might be what you need. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
[CGUYS] Need EMachine W31xx restore disc
A customer failed to make his own set, now his restore partition is corrupted. Need to purchase restore set for Emachine W3107; W3115 and W3118 should work fine (same MB and DVD). As a last resort, I could put a commercial WinXP on it, but he would lose all of his bundled software... replacing all the software is cost prohibitive. It's clean enough for him to use for now, but he still needs a good restoration. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] EMachines Recovery Disc cutoff date
Thanks, Mark. EMachines (owned by Gateway last time I checked) makes good machines in cheap boxes with minimal power supply... and they have a website where we can still download the drivers for this machine... I just cannot get the RESTORE disc.Every EMachine I have ever owned (4 now) is still running, the oldest since 1998, and it's only problems are provided by the holes in Microsoft operating systems that are exploited by hackers, all fixable with the restore disc. I also own Toshiba's, Dell's, Gateway's, Hewlett Packard, and Compaq. Each EMachine has a brand name motherboard and stable device drivers... but I cannot say the same for my newest Dell Core i7 machine... it has an unbranded (made in China) motherboard, and it's features are not well documented. Not even tech support can answer specific questions about the eSATA port correctly. It gets I/O bound more that I think a super-mini computer should. I have successfully removed the eMachines infections using another computer, so the purchase of an opsys is staved off for now. I will keep my ears open for someone with a working W3107 that can burn a restore set for me. - Brian - Original Message - From: "Mark A. Metz" And Brian, don't let the MS vs. Apple talk get you down. I would have to go to eBay for Jaguar disks for my G4 Titanium PowerBook, too. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
[CGUYS] EMachines Recovery Disc cutoff date
I am trying to repair a wormy EMachines W3107 with a damaged recovery partition. I contacted tech support for a disc set, and they said: "We do not keep recovery disc images prior to March 2006." and they could not provide a set. This is a very disturbing development ... Comments? Help?; * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Microsoft DRM Infects FireFox?
WordPerfect achieved 78% market saturation, but not because it was nearly bug free; it was because they chose to not implement copy protection. Business would buy it, and the employees would copy it and take it home. When the employee went to a new company, they would recommend it! The EULA even encouraged this practice! When they rewrote it for Windows, it was full of bugs... crashing computers, etc. It took several versions before I considered it stable enough for real work. So far as Microsoft DRM goes, they could learn something from the WordPerfect for DOS model. - Brian Tom Piwowar It also didn't help that WordPerfect got sold several times first to Novell and then Corel. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Can´t install IE7
I've had problems with uninstalling IE7 before... ended up in a loop where neither version worked correctly. ... try these hints: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/927177 - Brian - Original Message - From: "Marcio" Subject: [CGUYS] Can´t install IE7 Now what? Again, many many thanks Marcio * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Win98 printer issue
Of course, try the obvious (reboot the computer, reboot the printer, replug, check the ink, try the printer and cable on another computer) If all else fails, a complete reinstall of the operating system may be your best solution. Win98 was not very stable... it usually needed to be erased and completely reinstalled yearly for power users, and 2 to 3 years for the average (light use) users. Of course a botched install of a device driver or application might damage the registry to the point of needing a complete install in just 1 day (Hey, I've seen it happen!) This will also restore the speed that the user experienced when they first bought the computer, and that makes them very happy! In January, after months of trying to fix my mother-in-laws WIN98 printer problem over the phone, I just took her a new computer. She insisted the refilled ink cartridge was new and working, but when I visited her, there was no ink (or dried ink) in the cartridge. She was too cheap to buy a new manufacturer cartridge to test her printer. Good luck! - Brian My relative has an issue with his Gateway Win 98 computer which I am trying to help him resolve (long distance). He is trying to hook up a Compaq IJ650 Printer with a USB cable. He has lost the installation disk but I was able to find the drivers for it (http://tinyurl.com/6spkf), and send them down. With great difficulty installing them, he was able to get it working over the weekend. But now it no longer works. Besides the obvious (get a new computer!), is there something that might help solve this problem? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
[CGUYS] Conficker: Simple test with your browser!
Hi All!(This info is from Mark Minasi's Newsletter) A guy named Joe Stewart, a fellow who's part of a group of concerned souls called the "Conficker Working Group" -- mostly big-name security and Internet infrastructure folks -- realized that because one of Conficker's side-effects is to block your access to certain security sites (Conficker's creators didn't want you down- loading anti-Conficker tools from those sites), he could build a non-blockable way of testing for infection. How? It's a great idea: he put together a Web page containing links to several images from those blocked-if-you're-infected sites. To see it, visit http://www.confickerworkinggroup.org/infection_test/cfeyechart.html And you can immediately a clue or two about where you stand, Conficker-wise. I noticed that the top middle picture was slow to load, but eventually loaded. As this method becomes more popular, it may become even slower! - Brian * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] MS Sues TomTom for Using Linux
It recall that Microsoft licensed QDOS in 1981 from a Seattle company to pitch Microsoft to IBM as the best provider of the PC operating system. Gates renamed it MS-DOS. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/86-DOS QDOS (aka 86-DOS) copied CP/M's naming convention for portability of applications, therefore MS-DOS copied CP/M's naming convention. Digital Research was created in the 70's to market CP/M, and should hold the first patent for that convention... if they had the foresight to patient such a benign aspect of their creation! - Brian - Original Message - From: "Tom Piwowar" Subject: Re: [CGUYS] MS Sues TomTom for Using Linux >Well it says MS has the patents on them...so then the answer would be >yes. I guess you never used CPM either. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Windows Vista download
I have avoided slipstreaming until now... quite involved to produce one, and it only works for one of dozens of target configurations. Mark Minasi mentioned that he could download slipstreamed versions (each SP release), and that caught my attention. Well, I am not a VIP, so I guess I will resort to making my own slipstreams. Maybe with the VLite, it will be easier (but it only works with Vista). Thanks for the Microsoft Store link, but my objective is to obtain only the binaries, not the keys, since most of the machines I repair already have a license (sans disc). - Brian - Original Message - From: "mike" Subject: Re: [CGUYS] Windows Vista download You should slipstream those SP's into your windows install...very very handy. http://www.nliteos.com/ Fantastic free tool to slipstream SP's or drivers or anything you'd like. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
[CGUYS] Windows Vista download
Mark Minasi mentioned in his last newsletter that he 'downloaded' Vista Premium SP1 to repair his computer on the road. Does anyone know where that might be? Last month while passing through Nashville, some bozo knocked the window out of my van and took my computer took kit that was hidden under the rear seat, including my collection of Windows CD's for each flavor/variation that Microsoft released back to Windows 3.1. I need to replace the disc's so I can continue to repair customers computers... but I don't need a licensed copy to do so. (Therefore, this is not a question about pirating!) * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Sony Memory Stick Pro Duo Mk 2 data transfer speed ?
Answer: 32 Mbps write speed... It seems that this has been designed for higher R/W speeds than earlier Memory Sticks. http://www.memoryxflash.com/msproduo8gb.html Check out this animal: A flash drive with USB2 on one end, and eSATA on the other! Max speed: 3Gbps! I could not help but notice that the ads mention 'connectivity speed' and not R/W speed. http://www.kanguru.com/eflash.html - Brian - Original Message - From: "db" Subject: [CGUYS] Sony Memory Stick Pro Duo Mk 2 data transfer speed ? I have been trouble finding data on Sony's memory stick speeds ... particularly the above. It is supposed to be fast but I'd like to know how fast so I could consider buying a Lexar or Sandisk Memory Stick of the same R/W capability instead. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Will Obama delay switch to HD?
I got mine last year... went to the store all sold out. Later, I found one, with no remote control. I decided to wait. Finally found one I wanted, pulled out the coupon, discovered it had expired. Went to coupon website... Filled out forms again... told I already had my coupons (BUT THEY HAVE EXPIRED!). Website said I could appeal, but there is no more money to reissue me a coupon now. I have appealed, no response yet. I think this is the issue that Obama is addressing... The program should have been properly funded (or not offered at all). The governemt forced the issue, so I suppose that they should cover the consumer costs for screwing with the free market system. - Brian - Original Message - From: "Tony B" Let's get this over with already. There was no shortage of coupons at all this time LAST year, or before that when we first started talking about it. No matter how far you move the deadline, some people are always going to wait until the last minute. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Amazon Simple DB in the Cloud Now Free
This could be a snake in the grass for unsuspecting souls. The free 'low volume' encourages development and testing, but if you choose to let anyone on the net use your database, you could be looking at hefty charges if your database becomes popular or is attacked by a bot (Amazon would not do that, would they?). I only hope you can put max limits on the data transfer. - B - Original Message - From: "Tom Piwowar" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: Sent: Tuesday, December 09, 2008 11:48 AM Subject: [CGUYS] Amazon Simple DB in the Cloud Now Free For a database in the cloud, Amazon on Dec 1st added a threshold for billable use. The threshold is fairly high so much useful work should be free. http://aws.amazon.com/simpledb/ * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Lie Online, Go to Jail
Full Disclosure: 1) My photograph listed in the CGuys.com location map was captured on another day. I have changed slightly every day since. 2) My spelling and grammer are not great. My spelling and grammer checker should be creditied for what you read. 3) WalMart is evil. (Hmmm.. someone is knocking on my door... I'll be right back) - Brian * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Digital Media Streamers/Receivers
My TiVo does this, but it does not have a robust/rich interface... I don't recommend it. It also requires TiVo Server software on a network computer to access the music stored on a network drive. I know there are machines out there that can do this... - Brian - Original Message - From: "Seth Guthartz" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] Digital Media Streamers/Receivers I am using iTunes. I want to tie in a device on my stereo system that will allow me to access the music on this LAN drive. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Steve Mobs was: [CGUYS] EFF chastises Apple
Dec 2nd 11AM... Already gone: This video is no longer available due to a copyright claim by Twentieth Century Fox - Original Message - From: "[EMAIL PROTECTED]" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: Re: [CGUYS] Steve Mobs was: [CGUYS] EFF chastises Apple I think this is the youtube link; watch it before (if) it gets removed. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kkTMeczyHtE The "Simpson's" TV show was running their episode yesterday spoofing and poking fun at Apple Corp., Apple users, Steve "Mobs" and all things Apple and Macintosh. Pretty damn funny stuff and good parts of it were spot on. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] ACER beeping
I have yet to see a PC BIOS that does not do this It is the way that the motherboard communicates a problem when the problem prevents normal communication (like text on the screen). It could be as simple as a mis-seated memory stick, or as serious as a damaged interface chip. The newer Dell's 'beep' when they see a non-Dell keyboard attached, even though the keybord works fine! Since you don't hear anything, then there is no problem to report. - Brian I have two WinXP PC's (Compaq and eMachines), which don't sound out beep codes. Is this an option or are they just turned off? Are beep codes no longer needed? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] news fyi: "Microsoft to offer free consumer securit
Microsoft still has 70% of the browser market: http://marketshare.hitslink.com/report.aspx?qprid=0 mainly because it is already installed when the system is loaded/reloaded. Since the hackers attack Windows most often, it makes sense for Microsoft to attempt to slow the assault via free software. If they are successful, then the result will be a better reputation for Windows. If they fail, then OS-X will gain market share, and attract new hackers. OS-X is rooted in Unix... Unix not designed for security... only simplicity and elegance. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] better
Yes. Worms are also cached... be sure to clear the cache after a through cleaning of worms, before the next reboot. Are you sure that .pf files are just pointers? some of my .pf files are over 1MB is size! - Brian - Original Message - From: "RLeeSimon" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: Re: [CGUYS] better Ok...so does that mean to simply go to c:\windows\prefetch and delete the contents with hopes some of it is useless and some of it is corrupted? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] better
There are Sooo many things that can do that and a large one (as mentioned) is the hard drive. You mentioned that these machines have the same software... not likely, since they are from 2 different companies. Check the task manager and see what system programs are loaded. Motherboard design and memory speed can give a noticable difference in responsivness. The IBM likely has a better/faster video card eliminating bottlenecks during screen updates. The IBM has an Intel Pentium M processor (March 2003), much newer than the Dell's P4 (Nov 2000) processor, and with many speed improvments in the way data is moved across the bus, amount of cache memory, and more.. (see www.intel.com and look at the spec's for these two processors). I would not worry about the speed difference just save some money and buy a Core 2 Duo machine (Mac or IBM) and you will wonder why you waited so long. - Brian - Original Message - From: "RLeeSimon" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] better How come my IBM ThinkpadX31 PM1.4 2gb ram (but the same was true before I upgraded from 1gb ram) with exactly the same stuff running (except for lots of ibm stuff extra) runs and performs sooo much better than my Dell PIV2(w/intel speed boost) 1gb ram (max it will take) running the same but none of that ibm stuff? Neither has any viri or spy or other fections... d'oh!! * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] xm radio
Your XM radio is passive... it receives, but does not transmit. When you registered for service, you gave the serial number of your receiver to XM. XM sends a message to your XM to decode only the programs to which you subscribe. (all XM radio's receive the message, but only yours will react to the message.) - Brian - Original Message - From: "gerald" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] xm radio can xm radio track my listening habits? do they know how many are listening to howard stern? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Low system voltage problem solved?
Sorry to differ, but I believe that the 'system clock' they are referring to is not the clock/calendar. There is a more important clock that determins the timing of gates as they open and close allowing signals to flow from one component to the next. Most computers boot up just fine without the BIOS/Clock battery, but it takes a bit longer for the BIOS to discover what is installed in the machine, since this stored data is often lost when the battery is removed. Many of us remember the pre-386 machines of the 90's that could not even discover the hard drive partitions when the batteries died, and the specific information about that hard drive (heads, sectors, tracks, etc.) had to be reentered by hand. Sometimes we had to remove the hard drive and read the lable to figure out what the settings should be. SNIP When the computer's power is first turned on, the CPU initializes itself, which is triggered by a series of clock ticks generated by the system clock. Part of the CPU's initialization is to look to the system's ROM BIOS for its first instruction in the startup program. _ - Original Message - From: "db" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> That's not true. The battery & clock ticks is where the whole boot process starts. See: http://www.webopedia.com/DidYouKnow/Hardware_Software/2004/BootProcess.asp * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * <>
Re: [CGUYS] Tivo problem
I've never tried the 18" placement, but can give that a try as a test. I am sure that you have tried the obvious... rebooting the TiVo, rebooting the DirectTV DVR, checking the TiVo's IR setup to control the DirectTV model you own... Since it is likely that the IR link is the source of the problem, you might try swapping out the TiVo's IR transmitter with another one. Know anyone else with a TiVo? I received an IR transmittor with each of my TiVo's, but don't use either one. Maybe someone near you has a spare or can swap with you to test it. Next, see if changing channels with your DirectTV remote works well... this will test the IR receiver in the DirectTV box. If still flaky, the only circuit left is the IR driver chip on the TiVo motherboard. If you have a lifetime TiVo contract, get it fixed (I can give you the name of the company that can do it). If no contract, consider getting a new TiVo! They run specials on the new HD Dual Tuner TiVo's ocasionally. Good Luck! * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Tivo problem
The problem I'm having is when I change a channel either through the guide or the Tivo remote, the channel that it tries to change to is different. For example, if I try to change to 296 and I'm already on 249, Tivo tries to change to 2296 or 2 or 96. I don't use this setup, but it seems that your problem may be in the IR transmitter/receiver... Let me get this straight: Your TiVo tells your DirectTV receiver to change channels through the IR dongle (that you have positioned in front of your DirectTV receiver). The DirectTV receiver misunderstands the channel requested, and goes to the wrong channel (with a bouncing 721). When you use your remote, are you using the TiVo remote the change channels on the DirectTV DVR? (Thus using the same faulty IR Transmit/recieve link) Is there another IR device transmitting in the same room? (wireless headphones, palm pilot, TV remote stuck in a sofa cushion with a button pushed) Try sheilding the IR link from outside interferance with books, cardboard, etc., Try optimal placement of the IR transmitter about 18" in front and center of your DirectTV box. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
[CGUYS] Power Supply.. weight=robust?
I have been purchasing replacement aftermarket power supplies and noticed that the new one (450w) is about half the weight of the one being replaced (150-200W). I am worried that the new power supply does not offer as much protection for the motherboard and components... should I worry? - Brian * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] TiVo question
I have been out of town... and missed this conversation... the responses were off track. The TiVo lifetime contract is a gamble... $300 and no monthly payments, but only for the lifetime of your DVR. TiVo currently only offers lifetime contracts for the newer HD DVR's (Series 3) (works with older TV's as well). The Lifetime contract is for the life of the unit you purchased.. more specifically the ID in the BIOS chip on the motherboard. There is a third party company that will fix your TiVo, even down to transferring the TiVo units ID number to another motherboard if necessary, but this is at your expense (usually around $100 to $200 depending on the problem). I have used them to reimage the HDD in the past.. they also provide replacment and upgrade HDD's for your TiVo already loaded with the TiVo software. - Brian (2) series II TiVo's upgraded to 300 hours, one with lifetime contract We have gone for a while with no contract, just monthly payments (at full freight). I would like to set up a contract, but before doing so, I would like to know what would happen if our current box were to fail or become woefully obsolete (I am assuming it can't handle HD) before the end of the contract. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] DSL Home Wiring
Is there a box that splits the RJ-11 to RJ-45 for data? I've done ethernet networks but don't know about the hardware for telephone data lines. Thanks, Betty Your last question makes me think that you don't exactly understand the virutes of DSL... Voice and Data travel over the same twister pair (two wires twisted together). Your DSL modem (one RJ-11 telco jack, and one RJ-45 ethernet jack) modulates the data signals to a frequency that is not used for voice calls. This allows you to move your DSL modem around the house to any phone jack! This method requires a filter at each of the older phones so you won't hear that 'data transmitting' sound during your voice calls. I recently discoverd that the newer office phones already have filters built into them! Maybe even some of the newer consumer grade phones will have this as well. Anyhow, there is no box as you mentioned... the wires are just merged on screw terminals at the demark point. In my house, I routed the two wires into my house (humidity controlled) and split them on a board on the wall. I replaced my old 12 guage phone wires with modern 22 guage multi line wire paired with one or two Cat5 cables and one or two coax cables to each wall jack. Each phone jack has it's own wire from this point, so if a phone malfunctions and disables my service, then I can go to this one board, unplug all the phones, then add them back until I find the culprit. (You mentioned your phone service was down.. did you try unplugging all your phones, then plugging just one in?) There are other advantages with this configuration. If I go back to DSL, I can isolate the DSL line and use only one filter for the entire house. My 16 port ethernet switch is right there too. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] How to fix a missing optical drive on a PC?
Try System Restore from the Accessories>System Tools menu. Restore the system to the day before she left for school. Her data will be safe. This will fix most worm or virus damage, restore the registry, and restore the device drivers to the way they were on that day (thus fixing your damaged DVD driver). Any programs installed since that day will need to be reinstalled. If this does not fix it, then it is likely a hardware failure. - Brian Jones baseleg at GMAIL.com * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] eSnipe failure. need replacement
- Original Message - From: "Tom Piwowar" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: Re: [CGUYS] eSnipe failure. need replacement I still don't get it. eBay already lets you enter a maximum price, but the winning bid is set by the second highest price plus the auction's increment. I worry about a shill running up the bid to eke my 'hidden' bid out into the open. Last second bidding forgoes this worry. I often bid a conservative amount, and come back at the last minute to bump it up just a little more and win the item. Sometimes the conservative bid is good enough. When I shop on Ebay, the item usually is not 'mission critical'. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Linux - it's not just for breakfast anymore
Linux and OSX are daughters of Unix. Unix was not designed with security as a priority... it was designed for speed and efficiency to run on a Digital Equipment Corporation PDP computer that happened to be sitting around without any operating system on it. In graduate school, our instructor gave us copies of the Unix source code and challenged us each night to read it.. and find things like "the place where a new task is born". It is beautiful code, but not riddled with security features. (In defense of Unix/Linux/OSX, it has changed quite a bit since those days). - Brian John Gilroy argued that once Mac or Linux gained a share of the market they would become targets and would have more security concerns. Tom Piwowar countered with the inherent flaws in Microsoft's os which he deemed the straw stirring the drink. Now Linux has gained a foothold in the server world and Mac is increasing at the desktop level. Would be interested to know others' thoughts on these security areas especially as the three operating systems begin to permit more cross platform accessibility. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Amazon.com
Make sure that your cookies are enabled properly and security is reasonable. Otherwise, you might just need a good cleanup of your operating system. I managed to order a single item just now, so I know they aren't down entirely. Strange. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] [Fwd: TERMINATION OF YOUR STARPOWER WEBMAIL ACCOUNT]
StarPower already has full access to your email account... they have no need for your password. Silly Phishing scam. - Brian -- Dear Subscriber, TERMINATION OF YOUR STARPOWER WEBMAIL ACCOUNT * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Important Information Regarding Changes to Your Ver
Doesn't the "right, but not the obligation, to" free them from this burden? - Brian - Original Message - From: "Tom Piwowar" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: Re: [CGUYS] Important Information Regarding Changes to Your Ver >"4. Modifications to AUP. We have added language to our AUP making clear (a) that we may monitor our subscribers' compliance with our Terms of Service and AUP; and (b) that we have the right, but not the obligation, to pre-screen, refuse, move or remove any content available on the Service including, but not limited to, content that violates the law, our Terms of Service or our AUP." Wow. Won't that make it harder for them to claim safe harbour when sued for something a subscriber does? If they are monitoring and something bad crosses their network it must be because they permitted it. No? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Important Information Regarding Changes to Your Verizon Online Terms Of Service
Could it be music, movies, video game DVD's, etc.? Sounds like they want to sniff your data stream (and make you agree to it). - Brian - Original Message - From: "b_s-wilk" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Besides child pornography, which can be very subjective, what are they looking for? Does this include anything on their user sites, and Verizon email, and any other email? Will they also block news groups like other ISPs have done? Or maybe they're telling us now what they've already been doing all along. Thanks, Betty * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] AntivirXP08
This might work: (from http://www.xp-vista.com/spyware-removal/antivirxp08-anti-vir-xp-08-removal-instructions ) Unregister AntiVirXP08 DLL Files: %ProgramFiles%\[RANDOM NAME]\MFC71.dll %ProgramFiles%\[RANDOM NAME]\MFC71ENU.DLL %ProgramFiles%\[RANDOM NAME]\msvcp71.dll %ProgramFiles%\[RANDOM NAME]\msvcr71.dll %ProgramFiles%\[RANDOM NAME]\shlwapi.dll %ProgramFiles%\[RANDOM NAME]\wininet.dll Stop AntiVirXP08 Processes: Antvrs.exe AntiVirXP08.exe Find and Delete these AntiVirXP08: AntiVirXP08.exe Uninstall AntiVirXP08.lnk %ProgramFiles%\[RANDOM NAME]\MFC71.dll %ProgramFiles%\[RANDOM NAME]\MFC71ENU.DLL %ProgramFiles%\[RANDOM NAME]\msvcp71.dll %ProgramFiles%\[RANDOM NAME]\msvcr71.dll %ProgramFiles%\[RANDOM NAME]\shlwapi.dll %ProgramFiles%\[RANDOM NAME]\wininet.dll %UserProfile%\Application Data\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch\Antivirus XP 2008.lnk C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Desktop\Antivirus XP 2008.lnk C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Start Menu\Programs\Antivirus XP 2008\Antivirus XP 2008.lnk C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Start Menu\Programs\Antivirus XP 2008\How to Register Antivirus XP 2008.lnk C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Start Menu\Programs\Antivirus XP 2008\License Agreement.lnk C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Start Menu\Programs\Antivirus XP 2008\Register Antivirus XP 2008.lnk C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Start Menu\Programs\Antivirus XP 2008\Uninstall.lnk C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Start Menu\Programs\Antivirus XP 2008.lnk %ProgramFiles%\[RANDOM NAME]\database.dat Remove AntiVirXP08 Registry Values: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Antivirus HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Antivirus HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run\"Antivirus" = "%ProgramFiles%\AntiVirXP08\Antvrs.exe" - Original Message - From: "Frank Sestir" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] AntivirXP08 My brother in law did a video update from CNN this morning and ended up with AntivirXP08 problems. Does anyone have a simple cure? Is this really where the problem came from? Any help in ridding this from his computer (short of reinstalling WinXP, etc) would be appreciated. TIA Frank * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] please help with VISTA
Getting back to Gwen's origional question.. why is her Vista machine so slow Gwen has not yet responded to the question: What Machine and how much RAM. Does this sound like a good plan? Get a new fast Vista machine because that is what is out there. Load XP on a virtual machine running under Vista to handle legacy software. * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Vista Dual Booting Disaster
Jay, If you want to look for it, there is a Microsoft Knowledge Base article describing the correct order to install various Windows operating systems with other operating systems. Some combinations are incompatible, and the article will show this in a table. - Brian - Original Message - From: "Jay Montero" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] Vista Dual Booting Disaster I did a bad thing: I installed Linux on a new laptop running Vista. I had done this before with other versions of Windows no problem. Now Windows fails to start. It just sits at the blue screen. Repair mode does the same. Googling reveals what I should have done to create dual boot but my question is: Does anyone have a way of my repairing the problem short of total reinstall? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Vista Dual Booting Disaster
I remember that most Windows install CD's include a way to repair the master boot record (MBR) and point it to the boot sector of your partition. I have not tried it, but this web page seems to have your solution: http://blogs.msdn.com/winre/archive/2006/09/20/using-startup-repair-to-repair-a-boot-failure-due-to-a-missing-file.aspx Jump to the middle of the instructions "Repairing your Computer"... this is where you are right now. For more information on how Vista begins it's boot process, see: http://download.microsoft.com/download/9/c/5/9c5b2167-8017-4bae-9fde-d599bac8184a/OEMBoot_Vista.doc for a nice diagram of the MBR pointing to the NTFS partition with your bootstrap code. - Brian - Original Message - From: "Jay Montero" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: Sent: Monday, August 11, 2008 8:25 AM Subject: [CGUYS] Vista Dual Booting Disaster I did a bad thing: I installed Linux on a new laptop running Vista. I had done this before with other versions of Windows no problem. Now Windows fails to start. It just sits at the blue screen. Repair mode does the same. Googling reveals what I should have done to create dual boot but my question is: Does anyone have a way of my repairing the problem short of total reinstall? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] please help with VISTA
Each new release of Windows requires more RAM and horse power. I recommend as a minimum: A dual core processor and 2GB RAM (if you want to do more than run a single program). Vista is not so bad unless you want to run legacy software.. much better security, and several new features that I really love. (not as nice as a Mac, but not as expensive either) Please tell us which model you purchased. - Brian - Original Message - From: "Gwen Garfinkle" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] please help with VISTA I'm so frustrated with my "new" computer that I could scream. I know you must talk about this all the time. New computer - VISTA - and I feel like I am living in the dark ages. Everything takes forever to do and I get a lot of (not responding ) at the top of the screen while the computer is thinking. I try to ride it out - have no choice - please help. Gwen * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] DSL line & lightning
Nope... Massachusetts and California like to think of themselves as idea leaders... so the rest of us just sit back and watch as then innovate and fail, and then steal the ideas that acutally work. >Depending on who you listen to, some of the gloomier types say the rest of the US will face power shortages like what California went through a few years ago (and is still going through on some of the hotter days). I thought this was just one of the multiple plagues visited on California in retribution for their evil ways. Earthquakes, Fires, Landslides, Droughts, Brown Outs, Arnold, etc. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Unusual sound on speakers
Seriously now... I once had a sound card with (what I think was) a bad capacitor... it would randomly discharge making a horrible noise like you mentioned... much louder than the music/program that was playing. It would happen once or twice a day, with no real pattern. Upgrading the sound card solved the problem. I also had a Ford with a tape deck that would make a much louder, horrible b-b-bzzz-bzz-bz-bz sound about once a week, which I was unable to make Ford replace under warranty... they just 'repaired' it and put it back in. - Brian - Original Message - From: "Michael S. Altus" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] Unusual sound on speakers When I have my speakers on, I periodically get a sound, "dum-dum-duh-duh-duh-dum-dum-duh-dum". Does anyone know what that is? At first, I thought it is a time signal at the start of an hour, but I hear it at other times. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Problems with Dell Power Supply
Take it to someone who has replacement power supplies in stock for that machine. It might be as simple as putting in a new power supply or momentary switch, or as complex as replacing the montherboard (not needed as long as you can live with the problem.) Maybe you could set it to sleep when you push the power button (in the BIOS) and you never turn it off. It won't use much electricity when sleeping. - Brian - Original Message - From: "Rosenberg, Alan [USA]" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] Problems with Dell Power Supply My vintage 2002 Dell Dimension 4600 desktop (XP Home) has had a power supply issue for a while. The power switch on the tower case is a momentary pushbutton, not a toggle switch. In the past couple of months, if I turn off power at the surge protector, it takes a while (minutes to quite a few minutes) for pressing the power on push button to actually get the system to start up. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] esata
Your referenced article on Hot Swapping http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot-swapping indicates that we are talking about 'Hot Plugging', not Hot Swapping. So I will use the updated term. I am not 100% sure of the future, but the article I found indicates that it was never intended to be used that way. So far as external drives go, Early Mac's had external SCSI drives for easy expansion, but plugging them in while the system was running would damage the electronics. Even though eSATA can be unplugged without damaging the electronics, the logic of doing so must be considered... was this the boot drive? I would not expect Vista to be able to do this anytime soon, nor XP without some modifications to the device drivers (if available). - B - Original Message - From: "mike" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: Sent: Saturday, July 26, 2008 7:07 PM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] esata Unlike PATA, both SATA and eSATA are designed to support hot-swapping. However, this feature requires proper support at the host, device (drive), and operating-system level. In general, all SATA/devices (drives) support hot-swapping <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot-swapping> (due to the requirements on the device-side), but requisite support is less common on SATA host adapters <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Host_adapter> That's from wiki on esata...untrue? I've never heard that esata was not hot swappable, I mean isn't that the point of external drives? Mike On Sat, Jul 26, 2008 at 3:22 PM, Brian Jones <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>wrote: - Original Message - From: "mike" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] esata I just hooked up a new 500 gig esata II drive to my vista 64 box. I have the correct driver installed but the drive isn't showing up in the list for drives available to be safely removed. Am I missing a setting? Perhaps a BIOS setting? RAID is not enabled on the box. SATA (and by extension eSATA) are expected (by applications and the operating system) to act like a PATA drive... which is typically available from boot to shut down. Yes, you can 'hot swap' all of these drives if you use a RAID configuration and a RAID controller, but that is not what Mike intends to do here. I think Mike wants the ability to put a completely different data volume on the same eSATA port without rebooting. ^ "A comparison with Ultra ATA Technology" (PDF). SATA-IO. Retrieved on 2007-07-12. - Brian * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] esata
- Original Message - From: "mike" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] esata I just hooked up a new 500 gig esata II drive to my vista 64 box. I have the correct driver installed but the drive isn't showing up in the list for drives available to be safely removed. Am I missing a setting? Perhaps a BIOS setting? RAID is not enabled on the box. SATA (and by extension eSATA) are expected (by applications and the operating system) to act like a PATA drive... which is typically available from boot to shut down. Yes, you can 'hot swap' all of these drives if you use a RAID configuration and a RAID controller, but that is not what Mike intends to do here. I think Mike wants the ability to put a completely different data volume on the same eSATA port without rebooting. ^ "A comparison with Ultra ATA Technology" (PDF). SATA-IO. Retrieved on 2007-07-12. - Brian * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] CUT AND PASTE. (PLEASE)
Original Message - From: "Eric S. Sande" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: Re: [CGUYS] CUT AND PASTE. (PLEASE) Bottom quoting is for bottom feeders. I believe we have all been taught to read from the top of the page to the bottom of page. Please clarify... am I bottom quoting or top quoting in this message? - Brian * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] iTunes mess
I prefer to set my iTunes to use the MP3 format... more portability in case I decide to use another player. - Brian - Original Message - From: "gerald" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] iTunes mess i loaded itunes and do like it. it took all my mp3 files and converted them to itune format. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] I'm revisiting the memory dump thread I started from april
If you mean IRQL rather than IRL, then This might help: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/818501/en-us How to debug a system after you receive Stop Error IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL Not for the faint of heart... I would try an opsys reload with fresh device drivers first! - Brian Larry Sacks <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > What is the Stop code. > > Like STOP 0x07B or STOP 0x03A > > Also, after the system gives you a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), it'll > have a message of something like "IRL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL". > > Getting the Stop code and the message are very important. > > If you don't have it, you can check in the Event Viewer. Look under > System for Event ID 6005 (this is the event log starting) and then look > at several previous entries to find the reason for the reboot. > > Larry > > -Original Message- > From: Computer Guys Discussion List > [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Terry Kilburg > Sent: Thursday, June 12, 2008 12:06 PM > To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM > Subject: [CGUYS] I'm revisiting the memory dump thread I started from > april > > My question is below. Here is the initial post- > > "Every few weeks, I get the blue screen notifying me of a crash dump. > Maybe the > computer has diarrhea:) Anyway, it restarts the computer. Why is it done > and is > it necessary? > > Here are the details- > BlueScreen > > OS Version: 6.0.6000.2.0.0.768.3 > > Locale ID: 1033 > > Additional information about the problem: > > BCCode: 10b8 > > BCP1: 87421170 > > BCP2: 92C8CD78 > > BCP3: 8740E000 > > BCP4: > > OS Version: 6_0_6000 > > Service Pack: 0_0 > > Product: 768_1 > > Files that help describe the problem: > > C:WindowsMinidumpMini041308-01.dmp > > C:UsersKilburgAppDataLocalTempWER-59966-0.sysdata.xml > > C:UsersKilburgAppDataLocalTempWER4088.tmp.version.txt > > Read our privacy statement: > > http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?linkid=50163&clcid=0x0409"; > > It happened 2 times in 20 minutes when I was in a conference at > gotomeeting.com . This leads me to believe that it is a lack of memory > causing the restarts or memory reusage? > > I use Ccleaner and now unchecked the memory dump option. Good or bad? > > > Terry Kilburg - Independent Reliv International Distributor! > 563-872-3788 [EMAIL PROTECTED] > > > > * > ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy > ** > ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ > ** > > * > > > * > ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** > ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** > * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] PC Speaker
Not sure that I understand your problem either... please clarify. Some computers have a speaker built into the base unit... is that your situation? Or do you mean that you want to use your speakers built into your monitor instead of the speakers that came with your computer? Do your new speakers have USB connector or a 1/4" jack? What model Gateway do you have? - Brian - Original Message - From: "Matthew Taylor" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> play the sounds that come from the PC speaker on a Windows XP Gateway desktop through the desktop speakers. I have looked in the BIOS and cannot find a setting there. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] DSLR question (was over shooting
* And it's far, far better and cheaper to have a $30 UV filter get broken than a $700 lens. * Hear, hear! I recently picked the pieces of my $30 UV filter out of my $800 Cannon zoom lens, and not a scratch on the lens itself! Something hard must have hit the camera bag in the trunk during a long trip, and the UV filter saved the lens! - Brian * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] AVG dissatisfaction
I have not had AVG8 reboot my computer since I installed it last month. Change your settings... have AVG scan at the end of the day, not on reboot. DON'T reboot when it asks. Finish your work and then reboot when you go to lunch. A greyed out AVG icon just means that the latest version is not yet installed... you are still protected from over 100,000 viruses and worms! Your ISP is likely scanning your incomming email for viruses, so your risk is very small. - Original Message - From: "Robert" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] AVG dissatisfaction * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] 64 or 32bit
I know a network administrator that bought 64 bit Vista for his whole family, and was upset when he discovered that many things did not work, including their printers. He was forced to buy a new printer that had a Vista64 driver. That was last year (about 12 months ago) when even 32 bit Vista drivers were scarce. That situation seems to have improved quite a bit since then, but there is still the issue of legacy software you already have that will not always work in the Vista 32 bit emulation environment. Do some research.. make sure that you are willing to upgrade or do without some things to go 64. Extremetech's assessment seemed to be pretty much in line with what I have heard, but they also warned about the sacrifices you may make. A 32 bit application can access 4 terabytes (2^32) of memory, if your machine's hardware can support that much. I believe that the operating system may limit how RAM is used, and that may be the basis of what you heard. Even an XP machine with 512 MB RAM can use the hard drive to emmulate up to 4 terabytes of memory. But the opsys designer will reserve more of your RAM for cache and tables if that makes more sense. - Brian - Brian - Original Message - From: "mike" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] 64 or 32bit I was given an extra 4 gigs of ram the other day and am considering going 64bit instead of 32bit vista. Anyone have any real world experiences with the difference between the two? Extremetech.net had a writeup and the conclusion seemed to be 'sure if you feel like it'. Vista 32 is able to see 3.5 of my 4 gigs...not sure that extra .5 would make a huge difference. I was also reading that with 32bit, the OS can only assign a max of 1 gig of ram to a single app? Is that so? Any thoughts appreciated. Mike * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] LCD monitor question
Paula, Dim LCD screen has become a common compaint, and there may be a solution! I have been repairing laptops recently, and they have a small board along the boarder of the LCD screen called the 'inverter'. It can cost as little as $20 in single quantity. According to http://www.inventgeek.com/Projects/shorts/lcdfix.aspx you can install it in as little as 20 minutes. I first looked for one of these six months ago, and the one I needed cost $95, but I searched for the same inverter last month, and found several sources for under $30 and lots of models to choose from! This would indicate that there is a growing market for this type of repair! Save that monitor from the junk heap! - Brian - Original Message - Sent: Wednesday, April 30, 2008 11:26 PM Subject: [CGUYS] LCD monitor question I bought a new Dell LCD monitor so I could have a dual setup. Now, with both of them side-by-side, I realize that my eyes weren't going bad fastthe older LCD monitor(also a Dell) is very dim and the letters are a bit soft or blurry. I do calibrate my monitors and had been having problems getting it to calibrate well. I thought my eyes were going! This monitor is about 3 1/2 yrs old. Is it normal for lcd's to go bad this quickly? I have t he brightness turned all the way up now and it's still pretty dim, especially compared to the new one.And even with calibrating, the colors are very different between the two. I had planned on keeping my email on the older monitor and Word too. But I can hardly bear to read anything on it now. My eyes won't stay focused and I have to squint to bring the words into focus. If I put it on the new monitor, no problem reading at all. Just wanting to know if this is normal or has it gone bad faster than it should have? I"m not sure I can continue to use it even for things like the tool bars of Photoshop, calendar, iTunes etc because it really bothers my eyes. Thanks! * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] RAID n' MS security updates
RAID is low level code... the applications and a majority of the operating system will not even be aware of the activity of RAID, espically when it is implemented at the hardware level. What kind of problem are you having? - Brian - Original Message - From: "Christopher Range" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] RAID n' MS security updates Can a RAID setup block MS security updates from being installed? Christopher * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] french
I use foreign sets so infrequently that I prefer to just use SYSTEM TOOLS/Charactor Map to pick a letter. This would not be so good for someone who types french frequently. - Brian There are two ways you can insert or type foreign language characters or accents. I do it for German. Using ASCII codes you can type a code and get the character you want. My dad used to keep an ASCII chart next to his monitor to do this with German. In MS products (Office) and I assume WordPerfect (although it was done differently) and Open Office you use insert symbol and then use the chart to insert the symbol you want. Again I use this method when in Office to insert foreign language characters. It gets fun in Hebrew and Greek when you need to do this. Stewart * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Crash dump on Vista
Terry, Device driver incompatibility is the largest culprit. Try: 1) updating all of your device drivers from the manufacturers websites. Sometimes, it takes up to a year for the manufacturer to fix a device driver properly. 2) disable the 'sleep' and 'hibernate' power saving modes on your computer. Otherwise stable device drivers sometimes get confused when restoring from these states, causing a bluescreen hours later. 3) disable all non-essential software that loads when you boot up. 4) Scan for viruses and adware 5) slow down your processor to prevent crashes caused by excessive heat buildup, or put a fan next to your CPU to keep it cooler. I have solved strange (random) crashes by doing this, and after making the diagnosis, adding fans inside the case makes a more permanent fix. 6) if all else fails, a clean op-sys reload sometimes fixes this kind of problem, even on a new computer. I have received several computers over the years that had problems due to the way the manufacturer 'blasts' the opsys onto the hard drive, and fixed it with a clean install. I have not yet seen this behavior with Vista yet. Good Luck, - Brian - Original Message - From: "Terry Kilburg" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] Crash dump on Vista Every few weeks, I get the blue screen notifying me of a crash dump. Maybe the computer has diarrhea:) Anyway, it restarts the computer. Why is it done and is it necessary? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] OT: GPS System: Any recommendations?
I have been reading reviews this year, and it seems that the Tom Tom One (under $200) is a great tool at a great price. Comparison testing in Boston showed the Tom Tom One found the best routs (you would think they all could do this). I purchased this unit and have been using it for several months now, and I am impressed with it's value. The optional subscription will provide real time updates thorugh you bluetooth phone, but you would need to do a lot of traveling to justify that feature. The $700 units does things I don't want my GPS to do... play MP3's, check the weather, etc. I use my Ipod and telephone for this. - Brian - Original Message - From: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] OT: GPS System: Any recommendations? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Nat Geo Classroom
>I was just reading an article yesterday where insurance companies are no longer going to pay for hospital goofs. Can you imagine that Hospitals expected your and my insurance to cover them for their mistakes Hmmm... Maybe hospitals should pick and choose which patients they see so as to not expose themselves to 'errors'. What do you think of that? There are already privately owned ambulatory surgical centers that do this. By the way, Medicare is the leader when it comes to decreasing insurance reimbursement. When they commissioned the Harvard Study, all the insurance companies dropped their reimbursement to that new level, many are now below the Harvard Study, and reimbursement has been falling ever since. Medicare has announced that they are and will be decreasing physician reimbursement over the next 10 years, but each year, they back down. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] USB cables
Grrr... I'm going to New York I'll crab at cha' next week. - Brian * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] USB cables
- Original Message - From: "Mike Sloane" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> I didn't catch the first message from Mr. Jones, but it is completely wrong. Hmm... this is the problem with a forum where we have experts and novices in various areas examining the same issue. When I try to simplify a response to "Cable Quality makes no difference", I get assaulted with suedo-technical details. The short answer is... cable quality DOES make a differnence. The long version from Adaptec comes from the design of SCSI U320 cables and can be seen at and partially reproduced below: http://www.adaptec.com/en-US/products/cables/_education/cables_u320.htm Adaptec's primary concern is the reflection of the wave when it reaches the end of a cable at higher frequencies. (And yes, I agree, Monster Cables for your home stereo is wasted money!) I have been unable to find supporting links to show that the higher voltage digital '1' travels faster than the lower voltage digital '0' through copper wire. Characteristic impedance Characteristic impedance is the combined effect of resistance, conductance, inductance and capacitance in a transmission line. The characteristic impedance of cables must match the impedance of the transmitting and receiving circuits. Otherwise, reflections will occur, causing signal loss and distortion. Effects on impedance Impedance is affected by conductor size, insulation material, insulation thickness, shield proximity and frequency. Capacitance Capacitance is the property of an electric circuit that opposes any change in voltage. Capacitance distorts the signal as it passes through the transmission line. The lowest possible capacitance is preferred. Capacitance is frequency dependent. Effects on capacitance Many variables in the cable design affect capacitance including insulation materials and thickness. Dielectric The dielectric is the material between conductors in a cable. A dielectric material is a substance that is a poor conductor of electricity, but an efficient supporter of electrostatic fields, property that is useful in capacitors. An important property of a dielectric is its ability to support an electrostatic field while dissipating minimal energy in the form of heat. The lower the dielectric loss (the proportion of energy lost as heat), the more effective a dielectric material. And changes in the dielectric constant of the insulating material will affect the cable characteristics. Inductance Inductance is the property of an electric circuit that opposes current. The lowest possible inductance is preferred and any conductor possesses this property with a current flowing through it. Inductance distorts the signal as it passes through the transmission line. Inductance is frequency dependent. Effects on inductance Inductance is affected by many variables in cable design, chief among them conductor size, insulation thickness and shield proximity. Inductor An inductor is a passive electronic component that stores energy in the form of a magnetic field. Cables are examples of straight wire inductors with low inductive characteristics. Resistance Resistance is the opposition to the flow of current in an electric circuit. All metallic conductors have resistance, and the lowest possible resistance is desired. Resistance wastes transmission line energy in the form of heat. Skin effect also affects resistance. At higher frequencies, skin effect increases, causing the signal to concentrate at the outer edge of the conductor. Effects on resistance Many variables in cable design affect resistance, including conductor size, conductor material, plating material, temperature, and length impact resistance. Attenuation or insertion loss Attenuation, usually measured in dB/ft, is a natural consequence of signal transmission over long distances. It causes the signal to shrink or shorten in amplitude, where the wasted signal is lost in the form of heat or reflections. Attenuation occurs with any type of signal. The lowest possible attenuation is preferred. Effects on attenuation Attenuation is affected by conductor size, conductor/plating material, insulation material, impedance, and frequency. Crosstalk Crosstalk is the effect of a signal traveling in one cable component on the signal of another cable component. It is a major contributor to noise for cables. Noise from the signals will affect other signals, producing skew the difference between two signals at the same location. Crosstalk is a disturbance caused by the electric or magnetic fields of one signal on another. The phenomenon that causes crosstalk is called electromagnetic interference (EMI). Effects on crosstalk Cable characteristics such as conductor type, twisting, shielding and frequency affect crosstalk. Attenuation to crosstalk Ratio Attenuation-to-crosstalk ratio (ACR) is the difference, measured in decibels, between the signal attenuation produced by a wir
Re: [CGUYS] USB cables
>I wonder if this is another occurrence of a monster cable up sell? Could be. As an audio guy I'm pretty aware of the whole cable issue. Yes you can spend way more money for cables than seems reasonable. Hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Per foot. In a digital transfer environment I'm not sure it makes a difference. Well, it does make a difference. With Ethernet, the faster the transfer rate, the more twists you must have in the cable (per foot) to minimize crosstalk. That is why you have different grades of Ethernet cable (5, 5E 6). And length is a factor as well. Typically, (but not always), higher data rates dictate shorter distances with a given technology. The problem is that the digital '1' and digital '0' do not travel at the same speed though the wire... over short distances it's not an issue, but over longer distances, or at higher frequencies, a '1 bit can catch up with the '0' ahead of it, thus corrupting both. Using higher quality cables (less resistance) can obtain for you a little more distance. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] A windows 98 question
I suspect a damaged registry. You may be forced to live with this problem until you can do a clean install of your operating system. You could try a registry cleaner, but it might make things worse. - Brian - Original Message - From: "Mike Sloane" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: Sent: Saturday, March 01, 2008 5:54 PM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] A windows 98 question I had a similar problem just today - I couldn't get an older 3Comm PCMCIA card to work in an HP laptop I picked up cheap. The system said everything was working, but it wouldn't connect. I was using Windows default installation and the Win98SE CD. Then I downloaded the drivers from the 3Comm Website, used them for the install, and the network came right up. So I guess the lesson is not to trust the MS install script, and use the manufacturer's drivers. Now I have another related question: when I go to shut this machine down, the default "radio" button on the shutdown screen is always "restart", I click on "shutdown" but it restarts anyway. This is something that is probably easy to fix, but I have never encountered this before. Any suggestions? Mike Stephen Brownfield wrote: Today, I finally got back to his house, so I was able to try out everyone's advice. I used winipcfg to see that he had DNS address. I then tried using the IP address that Tom gave me for Google. It didn't work. I asked him if he had the drivers for his wireless card. He said "Yes." We got the CD out, uninstalled the drivers and then re-installed them. Rebooted the computer and *he finally had an internet!* Thanks to everyone for all your help! Steve * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.516 / Virus Database: 269.21.2/1305 - Release Date: 2/29/2008 6:32 PM * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] win98 se?
This happens, of course, when Windows does not shut down properly durng the previous shut-down. Do you see errors when you shut down? Does your CPU power itself off at the end of the shutdown, or do you have to press and hold the power button to get it to turn off? A worm can resist the shut down process and leave the system 'hung'. Do you think this is happening? A clean install of Win98SE should solve any problems, but first try cleaning up any unnecessary software that is loaded when you boot up each day (msconfig). If you use McAfee or Norton, you might want to try removing and reinstalling this as well. - Brian - Original Message - From: "Terry Kilburg" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] win98 se? During the boot process, it stops for it's ceremonial countdown period at the Safe Mode screen and resumes the boot up fine. It stops at this screen every time without pressing CTRL or any other key. It didn't do this when I had it but it started when I gave it to a friend. Does anyone know how to omit this screen from the bootup process? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] A windows 98 question
Uninstall the IP stack, and reinstall it. I have seen this happen when a virus scanner or ad scanner removes a worm that has attached itself to the winsock. The links are not repaired, and the packets are lost in transit. There is also a winsock repair utility that I have used successfully in the past: http://cexx.org/lspfix.htm Or you could do it by manually: http://thesourcecomputing.biz/windows-problems/reseting-windows-winsock-tcp-ip-stack.html Good Luck! - Brian - Original Message - From: "Stephen Brownfield" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: Sent: Friday, February 22, 2008 3:43 PM Subject: [CGUYS] A windows 98 question I work with individuals with disabilities. One young man needs to run Windows 98, because that is the newest system that will run some of his adaptive software. The home he lives in has wireless internet. He had a wireless card put into his computer about a year or so ago. About 2 weeks ago he said that he lost his internet connection. I went over to his home, the wireless connection still works for other computers. (I tested it with a laptop running XP.) I went to control panel > System > device manager and checked out the properties on his wireless card which said that the device was functioning properly. I looked at the card/antenna from the back of the computer. Its light was on and when I tried to look up something on the internet (a web page) the other light would start to blink as it looked for a connection. As I look at everything looks like it should work. What do you think might be wrong? Despite what the device manger says do you think it may be the card? Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Steve * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.516 / Virus Database: 269.20.9/1293 - Release Date: 2/22/2008 9:21 AM * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Windows family tree program needed was Mac X
The "Family Tree Maker" software works with you to create your tree. Every 100 entries you make into the tree kicks off a message asking you to upload your tree to their servers to become part of the World Family Tree (which they then put on to CD's to resell to other program owners, and add to their website for access via subscription.) - Original Message - From: "db" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: Re: [CGUYS] Windows family tree program needed was Mac X I don't understand what " The downside: The software is routinely after you to 'upload' your tree to their servers so they can resell your information." means. How do you upload a tree without having the software to create it with? * ==> QUICK LIST-COMMAND REFERENCE - Put the following commands in <== * ==> the body of an email & send 'em to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] <== * Join the list: SUBSCRIBE COMPUTERGUYS-L Your Name * Too much mail? Try Daily Digests command: SET COMPUTERGUYS-L DIGEST * Tired of the List? Unsubscribe command: SIGNOFF COMPUTERGUYS-L * New address? From OLD address send: CHANGE COMPUTERGUYS-L YourNewAddress * Need more help? Send mail to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] * List archive from 1/1/2000 is on the MARC http://marc.info/?l=computerguys-l * List archive at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/ * RSS at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/maillist.xml * Messages bearing the header "X-No-Archive: yes" will not be archived
Re: [CGUYS] Windows family tree program needed was Mac X
Any recommendations for a tree program that runs on Windows? I use Family Tree Maker.. one of the earliest to have solid support for pictures, creates huge all-in-one tree on any printer (you might find yourself splicing together dozens of pages), and it handles most anything you can throw at it without having to call tech support and without digging through the manuals (only exception.. married cousins... but it can do it!). It is a favorite in the Genealogy forums that I frequent. The downside: The software is routinely after you to 'upload' your tree to their servers so they can resell your information. This was true before Ancestry.com bought them, and I am sure that it is worse now. This is the fastest way to propagate bad or erroneous information around the world. - Brian * ==> QUICK LIST-COMMAND REFERENCE - Put the following commands in <== * ==> the body of an email & send 'em to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] <== * Join the list: SUBSCRIBE COMPUTERGUYS-L Your Name * Too much mail? Try Daily Digests command: SET COMPUTERGUYS-L DIGEST * Tired of the List? Unsubscribe command: SIGNOFF COMPUTERGUYS-L * New address? From OLD address send: CHANGE COMPUTERGUYS-L YourNewAddress * Need more help? Send mail to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] * List archive from 1/1/2000 is on the MARC http://marc.info/?l=computerguys-l * List archive at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/ * RSS at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/maillist.xml * Messages bearing the header "X-No-Archive: yes" will not be archived
Re: [CGUYS] USB drivers missing
Has your error message disappared? - Original Message - From: "Robert" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: Re: [CGUYS] USB drivers missing I followed your advice about unplugging the USB devices. I also unplugged the power supply even tho some were switched off. As I plugged them back in, some became active and some didn't so I repeated the operation for the ones that were still not active. Eventually all became active again. * ==> QUICK LIST-COMMAND REFERENCE - Put the following commands in <== * ==> the body of an email & send 'em to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] <== * Join the list: SUBSCRIBE COMPUTERGUYS-L Your Name * Too much mail? Try Daily Digests command: SET COMPUTERGUYS-L DIGEST * Tired of the List? Unsubscribe command: SIGNOFF COMPUTERGUYS-L * New address? From OLD address send: CHANGE COMPUTERGUYS-L YourNewAddress * Need more help? Send mail to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] * List archive from 1/1/2000 is on the MARC http://marc.info/?l=computerguys-l * List archive at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/ * RSS at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/maillist.xml * Messages bearing the header "X-No-Archive: yes" will not be archived
Re: [CGUYS] is isass.exe a virus?
The lower case L looks like an I in the task manager. He mentioned that AVG did not see it as a threat. Unless his machine is acting strange, he should not worry about it. - Brian - Original Message - From: "mike" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: Re: [CGUYS] is isass.exe a virus? But he said isass.exe, not lsass. isass.exe comes up as a trojan or virus from http://www.liutilities.com. This is where I normally go to check processes I want to find out about. They create a product called wintasks pro that catalogs windows processes. * ==> QUICK LIST-COMMAND REFERENCE - Put the following commands in <== * ==> the body of an email & send 'em to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] <== * Join the list: SUBSCRIBE COMPUTERGUYS-L Your Name * Too much mail? Try Daily Digests command: SET COMPUTERGUYS-L DIGEST * Tired of the List? Unsubscribe command: SIGNOFF COMPUTERGUYS-L * New address? From OLD address send: CHANGE COMPUTERGUYS-L YourNewAddress * Need more help? Send mail to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] * List archive from 1/1/2000 is on the MARC http://marc.info/?l=computerguys-l * List archive at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/ * RSS at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/maillist.xml * Messages bearing the header "X-No-Archive: yes" will not be archived
Re: [CGUYS] is isass.exe a virus?
Lsass.exe, not isass.exe! lsass.exe is a system process of the Microsoft Windows security mechanisms. It specifically deals with local security and login policies. This program is important for the stable and secure running of your computer and should not be terminated. - Brian - Original Message - From: "gerald" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] is isass.exe a virus? i have a process named isass.exe at 1252kb running. is it a virus. google replies seem to think maybe. avg does not see it. when i download the "download this program" soultions to remove isass, they go through my registry and state 500 bad entries and want to delete all 500 entries. i am not comfortable with wacking 500 registry entries using some freeware. is this a virus, and if so, how do i remove it? * ==> QUICK LIST-COMMAND REFERENCE - Put the following commands in <== * ==> the body of an email & send 'em to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] <== * Join the list: SUBSCRIBE COMPUTERGUYS-L Your Name * Too much mail? Try Daily Digests command: SET COMPUTERGUYS-L DIGEST * Tired of the List? Unsubscribe command: SIGNOFF COMPUTERGUYS-L * New address? From OLD address send: CHANGE COMPUTERGUYS-L YourNewAddress * Need more help? Send mail to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] * List archive from 1/1/2000 is on the MARC http://marc.info/?l=computerguys-l * List archive at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/ * RSS at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/maillist.xml * Messages bearing the header "X-No-Archive: yes" will not be archived
Re: [CGUYS] USB drivers missing
The USB drivers are included in WIN XP. They will install automatically. It almost sounds like maybe you have a USB device plugged in that may have been damaged or changed by the power fail/surge. Try unplugging all USB, then reboot to see if you get the message again. Then plug in each USB device to see which one no longer has a device driver associated with it. That will be your culprit. If you get the message without any USB devices plugged in, then: go to your DEVICE MANAGER (right click MY COMPUTER, choose PROPERTIES, then the HARDWARE tab). Expand the USB controllers, then right click on each item in this list and delete it (if it will allow you to). You must have at least power user privledges to do this. Reboot, and XP will detect and reinstall fresh drivers for each USB root. Finally, plug in your devices and watch for errors. If XP cannot install drivers for the USB ports, then the USB section on your Motherboard may be damaged. Purchase an aftermarket USB card and pop it into your slots. Get one with the latest firewire port for good measure. You mentioned that the BIOS had changes in it... check it again to see if the USB ports may have been disabled (this could cause the message you are seeing). Not all BIOS can disable the USB ports, so don't worry if you don't see them. If you BIOS was changed during the power surge, you might want to blast a new image into your BIOS... Either use the 'RESET BIOS' sequence or download the latest BIOS upgrade from your manufacturer. (be VERY careful to get the right one!) Good Luck! - Brian - Original Message - From: "Robert" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [CGUYS] USB drivers missing This morning an ice storm hit my house and the power went out. After it was restored, my computer wouldn't boot because the setup menu was all changed (hard drives not recognized, etc.) I restored everything but now can't get the USB ports working. The driver is not found in Device Manager. Upon booting Windows XP SP2, a "found new hardware" message is received. A wizard then tries to find the USB driver on the internet but then reports that none can be found. What do I need to do to restore USB function? * ==> QUICK LIST-COMMAND REFERENCE - Put the following commands in <== * ==> the body of an email & send 'em to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] <== * Join the list: SUBSCRIBE COMPUTERGUYS-L Your Name * Too much mail? Try Daily Digests command: SET COMPUTERGUYS-L DIGEST * Tired of the List? Unsubscribe command: SIGNOFF COMPUTERGUYS-L * New address? From OLD address send: CHANGE COMPUTERGUYS-L YourNewAddress * Need more help? Send mail to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] * List archive from 1/1/2000 is on the MARC http://marc.info/?l=computerguys-l * List archive at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/ * RSS at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/maillist.xml * Messages bearing the header "X-No-Archive: yes" will not be archived