http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts This section contains information about how to troubleshoot a computer running the Windows operating system, how to create a boot disk, how to reinstall Windows, and how to get free technical assistance. en-us Tue, 26 Mar 2013 14:16:15 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/windowsts.xml http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/87090501.asp The file ntoskrnl.exe is a core Windows operating system file. If it's corrupt or missing your PC will not be able to startup. This article shows you how to repair NTOSKRNL missing or corrupt error. Tue, 26 Mar 2013 14:16:15 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/87110701.asp When you get no sound from your speakers, which method you choose to repair the problem depends upon your technical ability. However, even if you know nothing more than how to plug speakers in, you can fix audio problems yourself. Thu, 24 Jan 2013 15:23:19 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/87112001.asp If your PC repeatedly tries to install updates each time it's shut down, it's most likely because a Windows update has failed. Microsoft created the System Update Readiness Tool for Windows 7 because of an inconsistency in the Windows servicing store which may prevent the successful installation of updates, service packs, and software. Fri, 11 Jan 2013 16:23:17 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/88011401.asp If you move a drive to another computer, you may lose permission to write to that drive. That's because the previous system set access permissions for the drive. Here's how to reset access permissions. Fri, 16 Nov 2012 16:50:48 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/88031801.asp Like any software, the BIOS can become corrupt. If the BIOS becomes corrupt, a hardware device may not operate properly, or a hardware device may be detected, or the computer may fail to start. Wed, 12 Sep 2012 17:34:53 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/88040101.asp Did you ever wish to install Windows with a Flash drive but don't know how? Here are a few quick and easy tweaks that help you to Create a Bootable USB Drive for installing Windows 7. Thu, 30 Aug 2012 15:42:03 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/88040301.asp If your sound doesn't work and you need it to work as soon as possible you can fix this yourself. I'm here to help! Tue, 28 Aug 2012 17:07:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/88073001.asp Windows freezing up is one of the most frustrating problems that you can experience while using your PC. this article will help you track down the cause of the unexpected Windows freezing. Tue, 01 May 2012 17:12:55 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/88101203.asp This article shows you how to get your Windows 7 product key if you don't have a system disc. Fri, 17 Feb 2012 19:27:27 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89000201.asp When toubleshooting a scanner, first check the obvious. Then make sure the scanner iinitialized properly. The make sure the PC recognized the scanner. Thu, 29 Dec 2011 18:02:32 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89000402.asp If the optical drive has been in use for a while, it may simply need cleaning. Many people have had good luck with Memorex's laser very low cost lens cleaner disc. However, if cleaning the optical drive does not solve the problem, this video shows how to replace it. It's amazingly easy. Tue, 27 Dec 2011 18:49:53 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89000401.asp Because an optical drive is a mechanical device many of the causes of their failure will be physical. So the first thing you want to look for is a loose power cable or data cable. Tue, 27 Dec 2011 17:57:02 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89002203.asp CPUs rarely fail, and it's very difficult to determine if a failure is caused by the CPU because many other components can cause the same symptom when they fail. But if you feel a bad CPU is causing your problem, this video shows you how to replace it in a Dell laptop. Fri, 09 Dec 2011 19:43:50 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89002902.asp A circuit board inside the laptop called the inverter circuit takes the lower DC voltage from the laptop battery and converts it to a higher AC to voltage the fluorescent back light. It's common for these inverter circuits to fail. This video shows you step-by-step how to disassemble the LCD display and replace that inverter circuit board. Fri, 02 Dec 2011 19:52:48 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89002901.asp Windows 7 provides tools that can be used to repair the operating system if it becomes damaged. On some systems these tools are installed in a special recovery section of the hard disk, if not installed on your system, boot from the installation disk or system repair disc. Fri, 02 Dec 2011 18:10:56 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89010102.asp This video shows you step-by-step how to replace the memory in a Dell laptop. Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:41:18 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89011602.asp This video tutorial shows you how to replace the motherboard in a Dell Inspiron laptop, needless to say, it show you how to completely disassemble and reassemble a laptop. Mon, 14 Nov 2011 18:39:52 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89012801.asp Servicing the 8800GTS (320MB and 640MB) is recommended and is a relatively simple process that can be completed in as little as ten minute. Performing this simple procedure once every 6-12 months should keep your 8800GTS running cooler and can help to extend its lifespan considerably. Wed, 02 Nov 2011 14:17:19 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89012901.asp Hardware and software work together to form a fully functional system. Rarely do you get a fully functional system all the time. Recovery of failed hardware components is basically identifying and replacing the problematic component. Tue, 01 Nov 2011 18:48:32 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89020301.asp The high-frequency digital circuitry in PC's can emit radio waves EMI that interferes with the operation of nearby electronic devices. This 's referred to as Electromagnetic Interference or EMI. Fri, 28 Oct 2011 15:51:05 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/92031903.asp A electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage or destroy integrated circuit electronics. The problem is that you may not see a visible spark. You may not know that a static discharge occurred. This an article update. Thu, 27 Oct 2011 19:33:02 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89022701.asp This article shows you how to troubleshoot, dissemble, and repair a laptop display with a video showing how to dissemble and replace the inverter. Tue, 04 Oct 2011 19:00:55 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89022802.asp You plug your laptop in the wall outlet and turn it on and - nothing. This article teaches you about power adapters, laptop batteries, and how to troubleshoot laptop power issues. Mon, 03 Oct 2011 22:35:16 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89031502.asp Windows 7 has several startup modes, called "Advanced Boot Options" that can help when troubleshooting the system. For example, the Safe Mode option lets you start the operating system in a limited state with only basic configuration settings and basic default device drivers. Thu, 15 Sep 2011 16:30:01 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89040201.asp One of the most difficult things to troubleshoot and repair is a PC that fails to start. Windows 7 is designed to automatically run Startup Repair if Windows detects a startup problem. Startup Repair automatically scans your computer then tries to fix the problem. Mon, 29 Aug 2011 17:55:15 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89040501.asp Having problems running a program? Can't connect to the Internet? Can't print? Other problem? Don't waste time and money searching for technical help, and don't panic. The Troubleshooting section of Control Panel includes more than a dozen troubleshooters. Choosing the right Control Panel Troubleshooter can often save you time and anxiety. Fri, 26 Aug 2011 18:36:46 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89041301.asp If you've been accessing the Internet through a broadband cable modem but now you can't connect, this guide provides some troubleshooting tips. Thu, 18 Aug 2011 18:09:16 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89050301.asp This book is for all level of Windows 7 users ranging from beginner to quite advanced. Lots of tips and tricks explained with screenshots. Contains a ton of useful troubleshooting tips for Windows 7. the help desk. Thu, 28 Jul 2011 15:06:29 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89062903.asp You may not be able get help desk personnel to come to your assistance if you have to leave your desk. The Windows 7 Problem Steps Recorder (PSR) records your problem by capturing screen shots as you move and click with the mouse. You can then send the recorded results to the help desk. Wed, 01 Jun 2011 18:55:44 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/89080303.asp what happens when you get a "USB device not recognized" issue? In this article I'm going to walk you through the common fixes of device not recognized issues starting with the easy stuff first. Wed, 27 Apr 2011 18:51:17 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90001001.asp This video by Matt from Gaslamp Computers shows you how to run the FREE Memtest86+ program to determine if your PC's memory subsystem is working properly. Tue, 21 Dec 2010 17:54:36 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90011903.asp Apphelp.dll is a file used by Windows to help load up a series of important program-specific functions for your system. Although this file is highly important, it's continually causing a large number of errors which need to be repaired by using the tutorial on this page. Thu, 11 Nov 2010 18:59:32 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90012805.asp A wireless input device such as a keyboard or mouse uses a built-in radio transceiver to communicate with a similar transceiver plugged into a USB port on a PC. This article explains how to troubleshooting a wireless keyboard or Mouse. Tue, 2 Nov 2010 22:08:47 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90012803.asp There are a whole bunch of reasons why you would think your laptop may be overheating and because this is such a common problem I have decided to write an article on some of the heating causes and what you can do to prevent it. Tue, 2 Nov 2010 20:32:02 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90041402.asp Troubleshooting a problem with PC sound is difficult because there are many points of possible failure. The first rule of troubleshooting is to check the obvious first. There are many sound volume controls, is one turned all the way down? Tue, 17 Aug 2010 18:04:38 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90041502.asp It's very difficult to determine if a failure is caused by the CPU because many other components can cause the same symptom when they fail. Before suspecting the CPU, rule out all the other possibilities. Mon, 16 Aug 2010 20:04:49 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90041801.asp Uninstalling a program should be easy, however, Windows often notifies the users that it can't uninstall a program. Recent technology has allowed software to further embed itself into your Windows architecture. Follow the tips here for a sure fire method to removing the program form your operating system. Fri, 13 Aug 2010 15:32:56 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90042202.asp Sometimes you will need or want to reinstall the video driver. You could be having problems, bought a new video card, or any number of other reasons. Therefore, we put together this quick guide to installing video drivers. Mon, 9 Aug 2010 19:10:35 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90042701.asp It can be so frustrating when you get on your computer and you don't get any sound. What makes it worse is you have no idea how to fix no sound. We'll walk you through some basic sound troubleshooting to get your sound up and running again. Wed, 4 Aug 2010 14:38:27 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90042901.asp Before you go pay someone to fix your printer, here is a list of things you can do if your printer is not working. Sometimes it is the simplest things which cause the printer to stop working and the simplest things which cause it to start working again. Mon, 2 Aug 2010 22:15:36 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90050102.asp Hard drive errors that indicate errors in sector X or Y occur when the electrical motor sends the spindle to a section of the disk that cannot be read. In this case, you may be able to fix hard drive errors to allow the section to be read. This article hopes to aid you when you need to an easy way to fix hard drive problems. Fri, 30 Jul 2010 18:47:19 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90050201.asp If you need to update your chipset driver, there's a small chance it was something you did, but, it's more likely caused by a device that overwrote the driver or a power surge corrupted the driver. You can manually update your chipset driver or you can use automatic driver update software. Thu, 29 Jul 2010 19:45:39 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90050402.asp Most PC users are dependent on printers to create important documents, as a result, a malfunctioning printer can cause all sorts of problems. However, you can repair your printer with relative ease if you follow a few simple steps. Tue, 27 Jul 2010 16:07:54 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90050902.asp The process of troubleshooting your computer involves taking logical steps; identifying the problem, finding the cause of that problem, determining the solution, executing that solution, and testing that solution to see if it solves your problem. Thu, 22 Jul 2010 18:19:45 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90071701.asp Problem Steps Recorder allows users to record the steps they're performing that are causing the problem. The steps are saved as screen shots in a file can be emailed to help desk personnel who can open the file in Internet Explorer and use it to help troubleshoot the user's problem. Fri, 14 May 2010 17:12:50 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90082302.asp Process Explorer is a more sophisticated version of Windows built-in Task Manager with a rich set of features for collecting information about processes running on your PC. It can be used as a troubleshooting tool to examine processes to see which are utilizing excessive CPU time, or which resources that are held by which process. Wed, 7 Apr 2010 17:54:08 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90082404.asp Most troubleshooting books concentrate on upgrading - and usually hardware at that. This book concentrates on solving problems - whether they're software, hardware, or operating system problems. This book reflects the handholding, clear explanations, and light humor that are hallmarks of the For Dummies style. Tue, 6 Apr 2010 19:49:57 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90090003.asp Windows Reliability Monitor, available in Windows 7 and Vista, is a built-in utility that analyzes your PC's event logs and provides a graphical display. If you click on an x, a list of the events related to the error will appear in the details box at the bottom of the page. Wed, 31 Mar 2010 20:36:02 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90090802.asp In this video, Leo Notenboom walks through some of the features and useful things you can do using SysInternals Process Explorer. When you start Process Explorer, you'll see a list of processing running. Double-click on a process for more information about it. Tue, 23 Mar 2010 16:45:13 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90090902.asp In this video Dave Andrews talks about common laptop problems. One of the most common laptop problems is overheating. Another common problem with laptops is the battery. Another common problem is the LCD screen. Mon, 22 Mar 2010 16:32:45 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/90091401.asp Nowadays CD and DVD discs are a very popular media for storing files, images, music and video. The problem is a small scratch from careless handling can result in a failure to read the information recorded on the disc. CD Recovery Toolbox is a free tool for recovering files from a damaged disc. Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:42:00 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/91001502.asp You attempt to start your PC and you receive the error message: "Can't Find NTLDR". With Windows operating systems previous to Visa, one of the first files the operating system looks for is NTLDR. To fix the error use the Recovery Console to restore the NTLDR file from your Windows installation disc. Wed, 16 Dec 2009 17:29:02 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/91060102.asp A computer's keyboard is a mechanical device, and a cheaply constructed mechanical device at that. The problem with mechanical devices is that they wear out and/or get dirty and stop working properly. In this article, I provide some information about how to troubleshoot a keyboard that's not working properly, or not working at all. Mon, 29 Jun 2009 20:44:42 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/95021801.asp Hard Disk Thrashing is when your computer's hard disk activity light stays on, and you hear your disk spinning most of the time, even when you're not doing anything on your computer. When you do try to do something on your computer, it responds very slowly. Article update. Mon, 27 Apr 2009 14:48:01 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/91080601.asp Hard disks formatted with NTFS have built-in security features that prevent using a boot disk to access their files. The boot disk for Windows Vista is actually the Windows installation disc. If Vista won't start, you can use the installation disc as a boot disc. Fri, 24 Apr 2009 13:45:51 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/91081301.asp This book provides a unique visual approach to troubleshooting PC hardware problems. The seventeen diagnostic flowcharts at the core of this book are intended for the intermediate to advanced hobbyist, or the beginning technician. Fri, 17 Apr 2009 14:52:15 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/91091202.asp Don't get sound from your PC? Here are the troubleshooting steps to find out why you're not getting any sound. You may need the original driver disks that came with the separate sound card or motherboard with integrated sound. If you don't have the disks, look for the drivers on the Manufacturer's web site. Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:05:30 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/91100801.asp For the past month or so, every time I put my laptop on my lap, I ended up with scorched thighs, which I can assure you, isn't a pretty sight! There are tons of other people experiencing the same problem as me. So what Causes a Laptop to Overheat? Fri, 20 Feb 2009 19:44:49 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/91101801.asp Everybody who uses computers regularly is likely to experience either data loss or a failed hard drive at some time. Hard drive maintenance can be broken down into two distinct functions: checking the disk for failed clusters and keeping data organized on the drive so that it can be accessed quickly. Tue, 10 Feb 2009 14:59:30 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/92020001.asp The DirectX Diagnostic Tool is a Windows built-in diagnostic tool included with DirectX to help you troubleshoot problems related to multimedia, such as video, sound, input devices, music, and computer games. Fri, 31 Oct 2008 14:12:42 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/92022901.asp Every time Microsoft releases a new version of the Windows operating system, a whole slew of old programs stop working. By using the Program Compatibility Wizard or by manually setting a programs Compatibility properties, you might be able to run programs written for previous versions of Windows. Thu, 2 Oct 2008 16:55:11 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/92031502.asp There are several situations where you might need to boot from an optical drive, for example if you want to install an operating system or use a live disc to troubleshoot a system. If you find that your computer can't boot from its optical drive, this article contains a few tips that might help solve the problem. Mon, 15 Sep 2008 19:08:44 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/92031902.asp If you're a computer enthusiast or an aspiring PC Technician, maybe you're wondering exactly what items you need to create a PC Technician’s toolkit. The toolbox itself should be a medium sized plastic toolbox. To fill the toolbox, start collecting the items listed below. Thu, 11 Sep 2008 17:07:04 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/92032901.asp When the Windows operating system encounters a situation where it can't continue, or where continuing might lead to data corruption, it comes to a screeching halt and displays an incomprehensible error message on a screen with a blue background. This situation is referred to as "The Blue Screen of Death" (BSOD). Tue, 2 Sep 2008 13:50:47 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/92042101.asp Understanding each step in the boot process is important for troubleshooting Windows startup problems. Boot.ini is one of the first files to come into play in the boot process, therefore it's important to know how to edit, or should it become necessary, to replace the boot.ini file. Sun, 10 Aug 2008 21:08:05 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/92051301.asp The System Information utility is an interface to the Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) service. If you recieve the error message: Can't Collect Information, it means either the WMI service is not running, or a problem is preventing the WMI service from collecting information. Fri, 18 Jul 2008 14:02:58 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/92111302.asp Your system works fine after a cold start, but after running for a while, it starts experiencing errors, or locks up entirely. This is a typical symptom of an overheating computer. In this article you learn how to determine if your computer is overheating, an how to cool it down. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/93091202.asp There are several image related problems that can occur on HP Laser Printers. If you want to save money and repair it yourself this article is for you. Read about the most common image related problems that HP Laser Printers have and how to resolve them. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/93091104.asp The Remote Assistance feature in Windows XP allows a support technician to connect to your computer over your local network or the Internet and see what you see on your computer screen and to use their keyboard and mouse to troubleshoot your computer. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/93090203.asp Windows XP has quickly become one the most popular computer operating systems on the planet! But there exist as many errors and problems that can occur in Windows XP as there are stars in the heavens it seems... So we're going to show you how to effectively Repair Windows XP Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/93102602.asp NTFS Reader for DOS works similar to the old DOS file managers. You use the [Tab], [Shift] + [Tab], and Arrow keys to navigate. You can get a directory / file listing of an NTFS formatted drive (in DOS 8 + 3 character file name format) and copy files from the NTFS drive to a FAT formatted drive. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/93012901.asp After booting up your computer, with factory installed Vista for the first time, be sure to create a set of recovery discs of the full factory image. The recovery discs are used to start up (boot) the computer and recover the operating system and software to factory settings in case of system instability or failure. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/93110702.asp A video driver is the software that links the operating system to a particular mother board video circuit or display adapter (video card). To troubleshoot the video driver, first locate the video circuit in Device Manager. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/93110801.asp Continue working through the steps in the troubleshooter until you have either fixed the problem or have come to a dead end. Yes, sometimes the troubleshooter can't help you fix the problem. But in many cases, it can, so why not try a Windows built-in troubleshooter before you make an expensive call to a computer repair service or Microsoft's Technical Support line? Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/93111903.asp In many cases the cause is a corrupted startup file which prevents the computer from going through the bootup from start to finish. In this case, an easy way to start your PC is to have an emergency boot disk handy. A Boot Disk contain copies of critical files needed for startup that you should have made earlier. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/94000306.asp There are several circumstances in which you might need to reinstall Windows XP, for example if you upgraded a system component that might require a different hardware abstraction layer (HAL), like the motherboard. This article shows you how to perform a reinstallation (also called a repair installation) of Windows XP. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/94051205.asp When you grab your Mouse and either click or roll the buttons and nothing happens, your computing fun stops. When input device failure occurs, the problem may lie with the computer's hardware, the mouse, the OS or Operating System. Let's take a look at what you should check when mouse failure occurs. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/94052003.asp When it comes to diagnosing the modem and any other computer problem, always start with the most obvious first. Modem problems may be repaired as fast as re-booting the computer or can be as complex as resolving hardware conflicts. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/94052403.asp you should ASSUME NOTHING when diagnosing any computer problem. We diagnosed a new PC with a video display problem. After briefly looking at the video card it took a while to see that the video card was not pushed into the adapter slot completely. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/94052501.asp The Power Supply convert's your regular household current into low DC voltage used by the computer. When this component fails, there is simply no activity going on with your computer. Remember to do the easy troubleshooting first. Inspect the Power Supply for any damage. Double-Check all connections. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/94052604.asp When you have problems with your video display, it can be something as simple as having the brightness turned down to a bad controller on the motherboard. If you have not done, first learn to identify the components of the video display system. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/94062202.asp Your computer was working fine, but then suddenly started locking up (aka hanging or freezing), rebooting itself (crashing) or shutting down spontaneously? If you know only too well what I am talking about, then read on! Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/94071601.asp As Microsoft has advanced the Windows operating system from versions 3 and lower, which were DOS based, to Windows XP, which is based on the NT (New Technology) operating system, more and more legacy hardware devices and software applications where allowed to become incompatible. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/94111401.asp The registry is a bloated hierarchical database used as a central repository for almost all Windows configuration information. If areas of the registry related to hardware and security become corrupted, windows can't start and you lose access to all of your files. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/95000201.asp The Recovery Console, introduced with Windows 2000, provides an interface that allows you to use DOS commands to troubleshoot and repair Windows. With the Recovery Console you can use a number of DOS commands to access FAT or NTFS file systems and repair a system file, the registry, or a damaged file system. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/95042702.asp Anything noteworthy that happens in Windows is referred to as an "event" and is recorded in an "event log". Windows actually creates three logs, the Application log stores events related to applications. The Security log stores events related to security related events, for example user logons. The System> log stores Windows operating system events. Most people ignore these logs; however, they can be very useful for troubleshooting purposes. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/95050401.asp I have always believed Windows should start and shutdown like turning a light switch on and off. Instead it sits there churning away loading unnecessary software and making unnecessary checks every time it starts or shuts down. And now, instead of shutting down, Windows XP may reboot. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/95071401.asp When using an application, if you receive an error message like "Illegal Operation", "Incorrect DLL Version" or similar types of errors, it could be because you don't have the latest DLL or it could be because one of DLLs of that application was overwritten when you installed a new program. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/95102101.asp You start your computer and all you get is a blank screen and some beeping noise. The reason your computer is beeping is because it has a serious problem that prevents it from communicating via its standard output, the screen. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/95114101.asp Hackers want to know if your computer has any open ports they can use to take control of your computer. One of the hackers favorite tricks is to install spyware on your computer. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/96012202.asp Device manager lists all the devices installed on your system. But Device Manager may not be giving you the full story. By default, Device Manager hides certain devices, for example, some printers and non-PnP (non Plug and Play) devices. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/96020601.asp Novice technicians begin with the idea that the cause of the problem is something extremely complex. On the other hand, experienced technicians know that 90 percent of all problems are caused by something really simple. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/96041502.asp Task Manager is a Windows system utility that displays the tasks or processes currently running on your computer. To open Task Manager, press Ctrl+Alt+Del. The Applcations tab lists the applications currently running on your computer. A single application may actually consist of several running processes, and many programs that run in the background are not listed (you can see icons for some of these programs in the System Tray). Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/96070501.asp This is not a "how-to" article about fixing buffer underrun and buffer overrun errors, but a basic description of what a buffer is, why we need buffers, and what causes buffer underrun and buffer overrun. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/96110401.asp The Windows startup sequence is nightmarish, bloated, overcomplicated mess. If you have ever experienced your computer freeze up part way through the startup sequence, or beep and spew out error messages rather than starting up, you may think your computer is dead for good. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/97032710.asp If your CMOS battery is dead, your computer will not be able to retain the date and time. The computer will also lose any custom settings, for example, the boot sequence. If you set a password in CMOS, you may be locked out of the computer. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/97062800.asp Your software application pops up an error message with some cryptic message like "Unexpected Application Error", "General Protection Fault" or "Illegal Operation". You don't have a clue as to what the message means. Illegal Operation! What did you do wrong? Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/97081810.asp System Restore is the ultimate band-aid fix for buggy Microsoft Windows. If you make a hardware or software change to your Windows Me or Windows XP system, and then it doesn't work right, System Restore acts like a giant "undo". Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/97090830.asp During installation a program copies files to the applications folder, the Windows folder, and creates entries in the registry. The problem is that when you uninstall a program, it may leave behind pieces of itself and entries in the registry. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/97092140.asp Every software company thinks that their particular creation is the most important program in the world. May of them think that their program should be configured to run every time Windows starts, whether you like it or not. Unfortunately this causes Windows to take longer to start. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/97102430.asp Most problems with CD-ROMs are caused by mishandling. Fingerprints and scratches on the surface of the CD cause electrical noise when read in the drive. Never touch the recorded surface of a CD-ROM, always hold it by the edges. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/97110530.asp When your computer does not boot, the first thing a technician must ask is; what do you mean by "it won't boot"? Many times the problem is simply that the user doesn't have their monitor turned on, or they left a floppy in the drive. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/97112410.asp With the advent of the rewritable CD (CD-RW) many people are predicting the demise of the venerable floppy disk. Today's computers can even boot from the CD drive. But if your computer is not connected to a network, there is no quicker way to back-up or share a file. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/98011531.asp The System Information utility provides a Tools menu, that gives you quick access to Windows Systems Tools such as Disk Cleanup and Dr. Watson so you can troubleshoot your system. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/98011551.asp Restart your computer with the diskette in your floppy drive. Your computer will boot from the floppy and begin running a series of diagnostic tests to check your computers CPU, RAM, display, floppy drive, hard drive, serial port, and parallel port. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/98011561.asp You patiently wait 20 minutes while your CD Writer has written 300 of 600 MB to a CD-R. Suddenly the buffer underrun error message appears, ending your recording session and wasting your time and a CD-R disc. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/98011591.asp I would guess that thousands of Microsoft Windows users receive the message "A required DLL was not found" every time they start Windows. They simply click the "OK" button each time to cancel the message. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/98011641.asp The free version of Sandra includes 50 modules that provide diagnostic, benchmarking, and performance tune-ups for different hardware devices and subsystems, including CPUs, modems, BIOS, drives, graphic cards, and DOS and Windows memory. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/98011681.asp When you are connecting to an unknown network, you need to determine which network protocol the other network uses, and you may need to log-on to the other network. Common network protocols are NetBEUI, IPX/SPX, and TCP/IP. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/98011741.asp Most mouses (mice?) work by use of a rubber ball that moves three rollers. It is very common for the rubber ball to pick up dirt and feed it into the internal mechanism of the mouse. Tame your mouse by giving it a good cleaning. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT http://bucarotechelp.com/computers/windowsts/98011751.asp If you hear the WAV file play, then your basic sound configuration is working properly. If you did not hear the WAV file play, continue reading (troubleshooting problems with the more complex sound file formats will be covered in future article). Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:25:37 GMT