- Know if my virus protection is working?
- Keep my computer from coming back on after I shut it down?
- Restart my computer when it starts in safe mode? What caused this and what should I do?
- Repair my program when I get the message You have performed an illegal operation?
- Find out how much RAM (Random Access Memory) I have and what is the capacity and free space on my hard drive?
- Oil my computer fans?
Scan Disk
Finds and repairs problems with your disks. To run click START / PROGRAMS / ACCESSORIES / SYSTEM TOOLS. (If you have problems running this in normal mode, try running it MS-DOS mode.)
Disk Cleanup
An easy way to clean up your C:\ drive (i.e. Temporary Internet Files, Downloaded Programs, Recycle Bin and Temporary Files). Click on START / PROGRAMS/ ACCESSORIES / SYSTEM TOOLS / DISK CLEANUP. (If you have trouble running this in normal mode, try running it in Safe Mode.)
Disk Defragmenter
Defragging makes your files contiguous so they can load faster. This feature is especially helpful on older slower computers. To run click START / PROGRAMS / ACCESSORIES / SYSTEM TOOLS
Recycle Bin
It contains deleted items that can be restored to where they came from or you may choose to empty the Recycle Bin to regain the storage the file(s) took. To run click on the Recycle Bin Icon.
Delete Windows Temporary Internet Files
In Internet Explorer, click TOOLS / INTERNET OPTIONS / ADVANCED / SECURITY. Check Empty Temporary Internet file folder when browser is closed.
Know if my virus protection is working?
All virus programs rely on you having the latest virus data available. If your program allows, set it to update automatically. Also, depending on your program, make sure it is scanning incoming and outgoing e-mails for viruses. And most importantly, set it up to scan your hard drive for viruses on a regular basis - at least once a week.
TopKeep my computer from coming back on after I shut it down?
Go to START / SHUT DOWN and make sure it is set to SHUT DOWN and not RESTART.
TopRestart my computer when it starts in safe mode? What caused this and what should I do?
Safe mode is a PC start up protection. It is normally the result of not shutting down in the normal way. For example, turning off power. What should I do when this happens? Click START / SHUT DOWN / RESTART/ OK.
TopRepair my program when I get the message You have performed an illegal operation?
You most likely did nothing wrong. The program you were using did not work correctly. Restart your computer correctly and try what you were doing when the message appeared. If the same message appears you may be required to reload the program.
TopIn Windows XP, right click MY COMPUTER icon and then left click PROPERTIES. Under the GENERAL tab, you will find your system information.
TopThis information came from ZDNET. If this link is no longer available, following is a summary.
If your computer is making a loud whirring noise, there are really only two types of components that can make that type of noise: disk drives and cooling fans. A problem with either type of component could spell disaster.
But in most cases, the noise is being generated by one of the cooling fans inside the computer. Don't forget to check your video card for a fan. These cooling fans are designed to keep the whole system as cool as possible by generating a constant airflow inside the case that will bring cool air in while moving the hot air out. If any of these cooling fans fail, the system could overheat and cause data loss. So your first inclination might be to just replace the noisy fan. While doing so is a fairly easy operation, it's not always necessary. It may only need a drop of oil.
Choosing your oil
You shouldn't use WD-40 on a computer fan! The reason is that while it is indeed a lubricant it's mainly designed as a cleaner/degreaser that loosens stuck parts, prevents corrosion, and displaces water. Obviously not the types of problems found in computer cooling fans. Furthermore, it's a light lubricant that is better for lubricating something like a hinge that only moves occasionally rather than a component that moves continuously and at high speeds such as a computer fan.
Almost any lightweight mechanical oil, such as 3-in-1 household oil, will do just fine. Sewing machine oil is good because, in addition to being a lightweight oil, it has excellent viscosity, holds up well at high temperatures, and is specifically designed to lubricate moving parts that operate at high speeds.
Oiling the fan
How exactly do you go about oiling a computer-cooling fan that uses a sleeve bearing assembly? First, remove the fan from the computer.
Peel the sticker back by grasping the flange.
Pull out the rubber plug, if any, to reveal the lubrication well.
Put a SINGLE drop of oil in the lubrication well as shown below. Do not use more than one drop.
Replace the rubber plug and press the sticker back into place. If the sticker doesn't stay in place, use tiny drop of glue or a small piece of scotch tape to secure it.
You can then replace the fan. After the computer has been running for a few seconds, the oil will work its way into the porous metal and then into the cylinder and you should discover that the fan is running faster and quieter. And, you'll then have the satisfaction of knowing that not only have you quieted a noisy fan, but you've also extended the life of the fan and consequently the computer.
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