Computer Memory and Slow PC Performance

I am having problems with slow performance on my Dell PC. It only has 256 MB of RAM and I am considering upgrading, but it seems to be slower than it used to be. Before I upgrade the memory, I want to make sure there aren’t other problems. I have run software to clean the registry and also am current on my antivirus and spyware protection software. One thing I have noticed is that the page file always seems to be pretty close to maxed out. Is this a sign that I need more memory or is there... Read more »

Here Are Some Things That Might Cause Monitor Problems

Recently thin horizontal bands (grey in color) have appeared on my screen. When I’m in Internet Explorer, these bands coincide with the text displayed on the screen (even when i am typing this question). Also, the ‘Back’ button which is green appears nearly fluorescently green instead of the usual green. If this problem appears, You can try replacing the monitor data cable. It probably won’t amount to anything useful, but it could be the cable. If it isn’t, I’d... Read more »

Computer Crime for Law Enforcement Professionals - a Glossary

One would be hard-pressed to come up with a segment more under-prepared for their challenge than law enforcement professionals faced with the task of policing the world of computing. Detective work was much simpler when everybody and his mother didn’t have a computer. Herein, some basic terms to get you started. HACKER: The meaning of the word hacker has been corrupted from its original intention. Originally, it meant somebody who was very good at programming. The members of the MIT labs, AT&T... Read more »

A Beginners Guide To Formulas In Excel

One of the most useful tools in Microsoft Excel is the capability to apply formulas to the data within your spreadsheet. This tool is also one of the least understood. Just a little excel software training will help you to understand some of the basic functions available, allowing you to produce useful models and perform some complex calculations. How does a formula work? Formulas are equations that will perform calculations on the values you have entered into your spreadsheet. A formula in Excel... Read more »

Troubleshooting Laptop Computers

I turn on my laptop and it loads to the login screen. I have Windows XP Professional and the laptop is a Satelite M35X-S109 from Toshiba. When I login about less than 1 minute the computer freezes. I tried to turn the computer on and off, but it frezzes. I think I had somthing to do when i downloaded virus protection from sbc dsl. Try rebooting and using “Safe Mode”, this is accessible by pressing the F8 key repeatedly before Windows starts to load (you know you have it right when a menu... Read more »

Tips For Using Free Software And Keeping Your Computer Safe

You’ve probably heard the saying, “Nothing in life is free.” Well that statement doesn’t hold true when it comes to choosing free software. For instance, there is a plethora of free software available on the Internet for your enjoyment. However, it is important to realize that along with the free ride comes a certain element of risk. Before you begin right clicking every download button you see, you should know the dangers involved with free software so that you can make... Read more »

How To Upgrade Your PC

I was wondering if you could possibly give some advice on what i should do regarding my current PC. I am leaning towards a new computer all together but was wondering if maybe a few simple upgrades would get my current pc up to scratch? My Curret PC has the following specs:AMD Athlon XP 3200+, 2200 MHz,512 MB Ram, NVIDIA GeForce FX 5200 150GB Hard Drive and i have an NTFS file system (if you needed that) It is a home pc that is mainly IE browsing / storage of music. films ect and games. I dont play... Read more »

Five Time Saving Microsoft Word Tips

Most Microsoft Word users spend over an hour a week completing tasks that could be accomplished virtually instantly by applying tools which are built into Word. This is either because they do not know that these tools exist or they have had no training in how to use them. Many of these features are very simple to use, and after some basic training can be put to use straight away. Five of the simpler tools are described below. Let Word type names and other commonly used words and phrases If you are... Read more »

How To Check For And Reduce Errors In Microsoft Excel

Important decisions can be based on data output from a spreadsheet. For example, an accounting spreadsheet not only describes a company’s financial history but also forecasts its future. A tiny error that initially appears insignificant can easily grow to give a totally incorrect financial picture. For this reason just one tiny error in one cell can spell disaster. There are ways to detect and correct most errors but no foolproof system exists. The prudent user should stay alert to this danger... Read more »

Microsoft Excel Cheat Sheet: Tips and Shortcuts

Microsoft Excel is one of the most versatile programs within the Microsoft Office suite. If you are self taught and have not had any basic excel training you may not be aware of the many shortcuts available within the application. This article will provide some tips and highlight some of the many useful keyboard shortcuts to make it even quicker and easier to use. Tips Here are a few simple tips to make using Excel easier: Copying content from Word When you want to copy content from a Word document... Read more »