Wednesday, 29 October 2008

Windows 7

Here's a link to a preview of Microsoft Windows 7:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/7696648.stm

It makes the point that Windows 7 is going to be "...what Vista should have been like ...".

That prompts the thought that those of us persisting with XP should continue with it, and wait for the official arrival of Windows 7 (rather than migrate to Vista now).

Any new version of Windows causes controversy - and not just because of the money we shall have to shell out! We can only hope that Microsoft has learnt from the relative debacle of Vista as it prepares to present us with Windows 7.

Friday, 24 October 2008

Microsoft Emergency Update

Microsoft has issued a security update as a matter of urgency.

If you have set Automatic Updates correctly, you should have seen the "yellow shield" by now.

Full details about the emergency update are at:

http://windowssecrets.com/comp/081024

(This website's email newsletter is well worth subscribing to.)

Happy days!

Thursday, 9 October 2008

The Credit Crunch and Your PC

As I write, governments around the world are fighting to preserve their financial systems, on which rest the success (or otherwise) of their economies.

So now isn't a good time to be thinking about spending money! As the recession bites (and it will), all of us will have to cut back on our spending. Which is tough, especially as Christmas is approaching.

It's also part of the nature of IT and PCs, that changes and developments happen faster than we can save up to get them! The latest whatever is almost immediately out-of-date, such is the speed of change these days. That new PC seems even more remote.

But there are ways to get that "nearly as good as new" feel about your existing PC, without actually getting a new one. And it could be a whole lot cheaper. So now is the time to think about two things for your PC: a good service from a qualified engineer, and some well-chosen upgrades.

Service:
If you're reading this in the South Manchester area (UK), then you can give TLC Computer Servicing a call (details form the website: www.tlc-computing.co.uk) for a very reasonable price for an exceptionally thorough service (full report included);

Upgrades
1. Possibly the best way to improve the performance of your PC is to add extra RAM, the "working memory" part of the system. And prices are very reasonable at the moment.

2. To provide extra storage (for photos, music, important documents, etc), you could invest in an External Hard Disk. It could also provide you with a handy way of backing up those precious files, an excellent habit to cultivate. Again prices are very good at the moment - for example, about £60.00 can buy you 160GB of extra storage.

3. If you still have a bulky TV-type monitor on your desk, why not treat yourself to (or ask Father Christmas to bring it for you!) a flat-screen monitor? Again, prices at the present are very reasonable.

4. What about a wireless mouse and keyboard? Another Christmas present idea?

5. Or a USB hub - saves you having to poke around at the back of your PC (I've got one with lovely coloured lights - makes my desk like the Starship Enterprise!).

So, don't despair! A modest outlay could add some quality to your PC, extend its life, and give you time to save up ready for the return of the good times. And TLC Computer Servicing can help, by supplying items for yourself or as presents for others. Here's hoping!

Happy computing!