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Computer Performance and Maintenance, Tutorials
Jghelfi
post Jul 20 2009, 09:45 PM
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This Thread is designed for posting tutorials designed for Computer Maintenance and Performance, so in order to post in this thread, you can ONLY post your own tutorial that will help the user guide their way through their computer.
*You may post tutorials regarding the following..
-Overclocking
-Restoration of files
-Battery Conservation
-Troubleshooting
-ConstructingNEW!

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Table of ContentsUpdated!
- Recovering your documents after you do a System Restore
- Speeding up your Computer [1 | 2]
- Phenom II X3 - Turn it into a quad core
- Make menu's open instantly
- Automate HDD Defragmentation on Idle
- Build a Computer
- How to Create/Do a System RestoreNEW!
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Please post your tutorial in this style that i am displaying:

CODE
"[i]Title of tutorial here[/i]"
[b]Operating System:[/b] "Name of OS"
[b]DIfficulty:[/b] "Dif. here"
[b]Time needed:[/b] "Length of tutorial (Approx. are acceptable)"

Screen Shot (optional)

"Instructions to your tutorial..
(add Screenshots to your tutorial for easier reference)"

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"Recovering your documents after you do a System Restore"
Operating System: Windows XP
Difficulty: Intermediate
Time needed: 25 min. or less


So, you did a System Restore and only found some files that the computer had restored itself, and now you are saying: "Where did all my Documents (Music, Videos and Photos) Go!?." Now you are thinking that they have been wiped off your computer permanently right? Well thats a no. They are still on your computer! The Way you can recover your missing documents is by following this tutorial that will be easy if you follow the instructions correctly. _smile.gif

Step 1) Go to your Start menu
Step 2) Next go to My Computer.
Step 3) Go under the Hard Disk Drives section and double click PC_PAVILLION (C:).
Step 4) Now go into Documents and Settings.
Step 5) Choose the name of your computer that you had before. My computer's name was "HP_Owner.YOUR-86339EB2BF"
Step 6) Go to "HP Owner's Documents".
Step 7) And now you can see all the documents that you had before the restore.

Just Copy, Cut, or Drag the Folder or Documents that you have in there to the destined place. I hope this helps you later on when you have problems with your computer.

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If you have any problems regarding this tutorial, please PM me.

This post has been edited by -Jon-: May 1 2010, 03:18 PM
 
Jghelfi
post Jul 23 2009, 06:13 PM
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"Speeding up your Computer"
Operating System: "Windows XP and Higher"
DIfficulty: "Easy"
Time needed: "30 minutes or more (depending on size of files)"

There are 4 ways on helping your PC work faster, but not harder. These 4 different ways will help you out when you need your PC at important times in life.

1. Free Up Your Disk Space
This first way is to help keep memory in your Hard Drive, so in order for this way to work, you will have to run a Disk Cleanup. When you delete the temporary internet files, it frees up space. When you keep the temporary internet files, it just takes up memory..

Run the Disk Cleanup to..
-Remove temporary Internet files.
-Remove downloaded program files (such as Microsoft ActiveX controls and Java applets).
-Empty the Recycle Bin.
-Remove Windows temporary files.
-Remove optional Windows components that you don't use.
-Remove installed programs that you no longer use.


-Go to Start, All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, and click on Disk Cleanup.
-In the Disk Cleanup dialog box, scroll through the content of the Files to delete list. Uncheck the boxes of the files you do not want to delete.
-Then Click OK.
-Another dialog box will show, and it will ask you if you want to delete the files (confirmation), then click OK.



This process will take a couple of minutes depending on how much data is in the selcted files, so you might as well go make some food or watch tv while it is running the process.

2. Speed up the Access to Data
For this way to work you will have to use the Disk Defragmenter

Important times to run Disk Defragmeter.
-When you add a big number of filesto your computer.
-"Free Disk Space" dies down to 15% or lower.
-Install a new version of Windows.


-Go to Start, All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, Disk Defragmenter.
-Choose the Drive that you want to defragment, and then press Analyze.
(It is better to click on Analyze first so that way you know how long the defragmentation will take.)
-Now click Defragment.
(In Vista, you will not have the visual interface like in XP, but it will still be Defragmented.)

-After it is done, it will show you the results. To see a detailed report click on View Report.

3. Check for Disk Errors
As of Disk Defragmeter and Disk Cleanup are helping your Computer run smoothly, you can also use the Error Checking utility that is located in the 'My Computer' Properties. This utility helps find errors in your Hard Disk and it will scan and fix system errors.

If you use the Computer daily, then it is recommended that you should run the Error Checking utility once a week to prevent data loss.

-Close all open files first.
-Click Start, and open up My Computer.
-In the My computer window, right click on the Hard Drive you want to check for system errors on and click Properties.
-Go to the Tools tab on the Properties window.
-Click the Check Now button.
-In the Check Disk dialog box, select Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors, and then click Start.
-If bad sectors are found, choose to fix them.



Note:*Only select the "Automatically fix file system errors" check box if you think that your disk contains bad sectors.

4. Learn about ReadyBoost (Vista Users)
You can use ReadyBoost to speed up your system. A new concept in adding memory to a system, it allows you to use non-volatile flash memory—like a USB flash drive or a memory card—to improve performance without having to add additional memory.


I hope these tips help you out on your Computer Performance!
[MS]
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If you have any problems regarding this tutorial, please PM me.
 
Maccabee
post Jul 23 2009, 08:05 PM
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Addition to Speeding up your Computer.

Services and startup services. Startup services are basically programs that start when you turn on your computer. Very few are really needed. Just use common sense to choose which ones to disable, read the location to see if it is a program and also if you dont know what it is, you can just google it and it will show up.

To turn some off, press the windows key and r and type msconfig and hit enter. Then go to the startup tab.
Then uncheck the ones you dont want, and click okay. You will have to restart your computer. And when it opens again you will get a pop up telling you things have been changed so just check the box telling it to not open again.



Services are processes that run in the background and use system memory. To disable the unnecessary ones go to control panel, admin tools, services, and then look through them and read what they do. If you dont need one then, right click it, click properties and set the startup type to disabled. If you use a personal computer and you dont use a network to view other computers or printers or use remote desktop or automatic updates or system restore then you can disable all of these.

Computer Browser
Help and Support
Remote Desktop Help
Messenger
NetMeeting Remote desktop
Terminal Services
Automatic Updates
System Restore Service



Also visual appearance can slow down your computer. If you don't mind your computer looking like it is running windows 98 then go to control panel, system, in vista you will have to click advanced settings but in xp just go to the advanced tab and then go to performane, settings and set it to adjust for best performance and hit ok. If you really hate the new look, then in xp you can just check the very bottom one. If you are using vista and dont want to make your computer look like windows 98 it may be a good idea to right click the desktop, click personalize, appearance and click the link at the bottom and changing the style to vista basic. It will make your computer run faster.

Also a good program to use to speed up your computer is called ccleaner. Check it out. It is totally virus free and really helps speed things up.
 
heyo-captain-jac...
post Jul 23 2009, 11:25 PM
Post #4


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"Phenom II X3 - Turn it into a quad core"
Operating System: Any
DIfficulty: Advanced (not because it's difficult, but because it's somewhat dangerous, but no more dangerous than overclocking.)
Time needed: Few minutes

Note: You have about a 30% chance of this working right. I've heard reports from completely stable quad core system to failed POST. If your system ends up unstable from this, simply go back into BIOS and put it back on it's default settings.

You can unlock the Phenom II X3 codename Heka on any motherboard that has ACC and a SB750 south bridge, and 790fx north, assuming your processor doesn't have a damaged or destroyed core.

For this tutorial, I used a Phenom II X3 720 paired with a Biostar TA790GX 128M motherboard.

Set the appropriate BIOS setting for the Advanced Clock Calibration feature to "Auto", save settings, and restart.
The system should be able to deal with the disabled core, and off load some work to it.


For those interested, here is a the full build I used:
http://secure.newegg.com/WishList/PublicWi...Number=14453528
 
Maccabee
post Jul 26 2009, 02:35 PM
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"Make menu's open instantly."
Operating System: "Windows XP - Windows Vista"
DIfficulty: "Easy"
Time needed: "2 minutes."



When you open the start menu you may notice that you have to hover for a few seconds before the all programs list opens. its the same when you right click and hover "new". You can save time and frustration with this simple registry tweak that makes a menu open instantly as soon as you hover it.

Press the windows key and r at the same time, then in the box type regedit and hit enter.

Open HKEY_CLASSES_CURRENT_USER (by clicking the plus sign next to it, then open control panel and click on desktop. On the right side, look for "MenuShowDelay" The value should be at 400. Double click it and change it to 0. Simple as that. Restart your computer and test it out to see if you like it. I find it a little annoying because when I pass it on the start menu it always flies open. So you may want to put it back to 400 or change it to 200. If you dont see MenuShowDelay on the right hand side when you go to it in regedit, then you may have to right click the word desktop, in the registry editor and click new string and name it MenuShowDelay and set the value to 0.

Fell free to PM me with any questions.

 
Uronacid
post Jul 27 2009, 01:19 PM
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Automate HDD Defragmentation on Idle:
Difficulty: Medium
Time Needed: 15 Min

You will need the following:
JKDefrag: http://www.kessels.com/JkDefrag/JkDefrag-3.36.zip

Step By Step for Vista:
  1. Unzip JkDefrag-3.36.zip to a Folder on your computer. I placed mine in a folder I created called C:\Scripts\Defrag.
  2. Launch the "Task Scheduler" by clicking the Windows Button and type "Task Scheduler"
  3. From within the Test Scheduler application window: open the Action menu and select Create Task.
  4. From within the Create Task window on the General tab: name your task "Automated Defrag"
  5. From within the Create Task window on the General tab: click the "Change User or Group" button.
  6. From the Select User or Group window: click the Advanced button
  7. From the Advanced Select User or Group window click the Find Now button to display a list of the users on the computer.
  8. From that the List: double click the Administratoruser account. The Advanced Select User or Group window will close.
  9. From the Select User or Group window: click the OK button.
  10. From within the Create Task window: select the Triggers tab.
  11. From within the Create Task window and on the Triggers tab: click the New button.
  12. From within the New Trigger window: Select the On idle event from the Begin the task drop down menu. Make sure the task is Enabled and click the OK button.
  13. From within the Create Task window select the Actions tab.
  14. From within the Create Task window and on the Triggers tab: click the New button.
  15. From within the New Action window: click the Browse button, browse to the location where you unzipped the JkDefrag-3.36.zip file, select JkDefragCmd.exe, click the Open button, and click the OK button to exit the New Action window.
  16. From within the Create Task window and on the Triggers tab: click the OK button.
From now on your computer will immidiately defrag itself when it is left idle.
 
Uronacid
post Sep 15 2009, 02:29 PM
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Build a Computer:
Difficulty: Hard
Time Needed: 2 Hours

You will need the following:
  • Antistatic Strap
  • Antistatic Mat
  • An assortment of non-magnetic screwdrivers
  • Computer Case
  • Power Supply
  • Case Fan
  • Motherboard
  • CPU
  • CPU FAN/Heat Sink
  • Memory Modules
  • Hard Disk Drive
  • Adapter Cards(Optional)
For all of the scenarios below you should make sure that the computer you are installing the components in is not receiving power. You should do this by disconnecting the power cable from the back of the machine as simply turning the computer off may not be enough.


Installing a Power Supply

! Remember not to where an antistatic strap while handling a power supply. You could get electrocuted!

!When selecting a power supply always make sure that you’ve selected one with sufficient wattage, the correct form factor, and has the appropriate connectors for the components inside your PC!


  1. Remove the side panel of the chassis from the computer.
  2. Slide the power supply into the area designated for the power supply.
  3. Using an appropriately sized screwdriver and screws included with the power supply. Fasten the power supply to the PC case.


Installing a Case Fan

! When selecting a case fan, make sure that it is the right size for your case. Case fan sizes range from 25-360mm depending on the case!

  1. Before unpacking a new case fan, ensure that you have grounded your body properly. One method is to wear an antistatic strap. Especially if there is equipment in the case.
  2. Using an appropriately sized screwdriver and screws, fasten the case fan to an available space on the PC case.
  3. Using an appropriately sized screwdriver and screws included with the power supply. Fasten the power supply to the PC case.



Installing a Motherboard

! Remember each motherboard is unique in that it uses specific types of processors, memory, and expansion slots. (Check the motherboard specifications and manual for a list of compatible components)!

!Read the instruction manual and make sure you are using the proper jumper settings!

!When you need to replace a motherboard you may need to consider replacing the whole computer!

!All motherboards have unique features and settings specific to that motherboard. Make sure you read the manual before installing your motherboard!


  1. Before unpacking a new motherboard, ensure that you have grounded your body properly. One method is to wear an antistatic strap.
  2. Hold the board by its edge. Avoid touching module contacts and IC chips.
  3. Place the board on a grounded antistatic mat or keep it inside the antistatic bog.
  4. Install the CPU and memory on the motherboard per manufacturer’s instructions (Move on to installing the CPU/CPU Fan/Heat Sink and Memory before moving to step 5).
  5. Follow the instructions for setting any switches on the motherboard and pay attention to instructions for how to install stand-off screws in the case. These keep the motherboard from touching the metal floor or wall of the case.
  6. To place the new board in the computer, line it up properly on the chassis screw holes and fix it into place.
  7. Attach the power and drive connectors as well as the connectors to the ports on the case.



Installing a CPU/CPU Fan/Heat Sink

!A CPU will be very hot when you first turn off a PC. Give the CPU at least five minutes to cool before removing it from a computer!

Installing a CPU
  1. Before unpacking a new CPU, ensure that you have grounded your body properly. One method is to wear an antistatic strap.
  2. Lift the socket lever. You might have to move it slightly to the side to clear it from a retaining tab.
  3. Remove the CPU from its packaging and place it into the ZIF socket.
  4. Secure the socket lever to lock the CPU into the socket.


!Be extremely cautious while installing a new CPU Fan/Heat Sink. If the CPU Fan/Heat Sink is not installed properly you will run the risk of overheating and possibly destroying your processor!

!make sure you’re not doing more harm than good. Fans pushing air in the wrong direction can hinder airflow!



Installing a CPU Fan/Heat Sink
  1. Before unpacking a new CPU Fan/Heat Sink, ensure that you have grounded your body properly. One method is to wear an antistatic strap.
  2. Follow manufacturer’s instructions to install any brackets required to secure the CPU Fan/Heat Sink to the CPU
  3. Follow manufacturer’s instructions on how to apply the proper amount of thermal grease to the processor. Sometimes thermal grease is pre-applied by the manufacturer to the Heat Sink itself.
  4. Follow manufacturer’s instructions on how to securely fasten the CPU Fan/Heat Sink to the CPU/Motherboard
  5. Plug any Fan power connectors into the CPU Fan power connector on the motherboard.



Installing Memory Modules

!Remember, SIMM and RIMM modules must be installed in pairs. On top of that, empty memory slots on a motherboard that supports RIMM modules must be filled with continuator modules or the computer will not function properly!


Installing a SIMM
  1. Before unpacking your new memory modules, ensure that you have grounded your body properly. One method is to wear an antistatic strap.
  2. Line up the SIMM’s connector edge with the appropriate-sized slot on the motherboard, keeping the SIMM at a 45-degree angle to the slot.
  3. After inserting the SIMM into the slot as far as it will easily go, gently rotate the SIMM upright until it clicks into place. Note that a SIMM will fit in a slot only one way. If you have trouble installing the SIMM, reverse it’s orientation in the slot.
Installing a DIMM/RIMM
  1. Before unpacking your new memory modules, ensure that you have grounded your body properly. One method is to wear an antistatic strap.
  2. Release the retention clips on the sides of the DIMM or RIMM slot.
  3. Line up the DIMM or RIMM with the slot so that the notches in the slot line up with the tabs on the module.
  4. Gently press down on the DIMM or RIMM until the retention clips lock into position.


Installing Storage(Hard Disk Drives/Optical Drives/Floppy Drives)

!The red stripe on a ribbon cable represents the first pin in the cable. If the ribbon cable is backwards on a floppy drive the light on the floppy drive will continually flash!

! Many motherboards have the option to support both STA and PATA interfaces, there are much faster drives available for the SATA interface. They use thinner cables for better airflow and are hot swappable!

! Some SATA drives have both a Molex power connector and a SATA power connector. If this is the case, use one and not both. Using both will ruin the drive!



Installing an IDE Drive
  1. Before unpacking your new drive, ensure that you have grounded your body properly. One method is to wear an antistatic strap.
  2. Decide whether or not you would like this drive to be a master or slave drive and set the jumper on the back of the drive according to the instructions in the drive manual.
  3. Secure the drive to your case using the appropriate mounting brackets and/or screws.
  4. Connect the IDE cables to the motherboard and to back of the drive according to its role as a master or slave drive. If it is a master drive it must be connected at the end of the IDE cable. If it is a slave drive it must be connected at the center of the cable.
  5. Connect a Molex power connector into the back of the drive.
Installing a SATA Drive
  1. Before unpacking your new drive, ensure that you have grounded your body properly. One method is to wear an antistatic strap.
  2. Secure the drive to your case using the appropriate mounting brackets and/or screws.
  3. Connect the SATA cables to the motherboard and to the back of the drive.
  4. Connect the SATA power connector to the back of the drive.

Installing a Floppy Drive
  1. Before unpacking your new floppy drive, ensure that you have grounded your body properly. One method is to wear an antistatic strap.
  2. Secure the drive to your case using the appropriate mounting brackets and/or screws.
  3. Connect the 34-pin floppy drive cable to the floppy drive and make sure the red stripe is on the same side as the floppy drive more connection.
  4. Connect the mini-molex power connector to the floppy drive.



Installing Adapter Cards(Video Cards/NIC Cards/Sound Cards)

  1. Before unpacking your new card, ensure that you have grounded your body properly. One method is to wear an antistatic strap.
  2. Remove the expansion slot shield from computer case.
  3. Release any retention clips if necessary, align the card with the expansion slot, and gently push the card into the slot.
  4. Fasten the card to the case.
  5. If necessary connect any power cables.


Clean Up Check-List
  • Make sure all power and data cables are plugged in and securely fastened to their corresponding components.
  • Make sure all components are properly fastened to the case
  • Make sure cables within the case aren’t disturbing the airflow of the case.
  • Use zip-ties or velcro-straps to secure loose cabling.
  • Power the computer on, and make sure all fans are pushing air in the proper direction within the case.
 
Jghelfi
post May 1 2010, 03:15 PM
Post #8


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"How to Create/Do a System Restore"
Operating System: Windows 7 (and possibly other Windows OS)
DIfficulty: Easy
Time needed: at least 5 minutes

To create a System restore you must follow the directions below.
-Press 'FN' and 'F2' at the same time. (this will bring up your system properties)
-Go to System Protection.
-Press Create.

just wait till its done and you are set!


To do a System Restore you must follow the directions below.
-Go to Start.
-All Programs.
-Accessories.
-System Tools.
-System Restore.

Follow the directions there and you will do a system restore.
 

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