Unfortunately, you can’t completely erase the records of everything you’ve done.  However, you can compress it, free up some space on your computer, and get that machine running faster.  In general, here’s how to compress those old records:

- On most machines with Windows, you see a Start image in the lower left hand corner of your screen once the computer is on.  Click on this with your mouse.

- Click on All Programs.

- Look for Accessories.

- Move your mouse over to System Tools and then click on Disk Cleanup.

- A small window will pop up that says, “Select the drive you want to clean up.”  It should automatically show you the C drive (C:).  Click “OK” or press the Enter key on your keyboard.

- A new window will pop up that says, “Disk cleanup is calculating how much space you will be able to free on (C:).  This will take a few minutes to complete.”  Here’s where you need to be patient.  If you’ve never done this before, this may as long as 20-30 minutes to complete, or even longer if your computer is much older.  It’s at this point where the computer is calculating how much space it can save, how many files can be compressed, etc.

- Eventually, another window will pop up with a list of boxes.

- We recommend checking ALL the boxes so you can maximize space!  Don’t worry about erasing things you may need.  Doing this will clean and compress a lot of things, all or most of which you won’t or don’t need.  In addition, this window will show you how much disk space you will gain!

- Click “OK” or press the Enter key on your keyboard.

- Yet another window will pop up and ask if you’re sure you want to do this.  Click “OK” or press the Enter key on your keyboard.

- This may take a while, but when it’s done cleaning and compressing, the window will disappear.

If you’ve never done this before, you may want to re-start your computer once this cleaning is completed.  You should then see things move more quickly on your computer.  Try doing this weekly or even daily, especially after you have been on the Internet!

Copyright 2011 KoolKomputer LLC. All Rights Reserved.

So here’s the first thing you can do especially if you have Internet Explorer:

- Open your Internet Browser, such as Internet Explorer.

- At the top of the screen, click on Tools.

- A menu will drop down.  Search for and click on Internet Options.

- A window will open that says Internet Options at the top.

- In the middle of the window, where you see Browsing History, click the box that says “Delete browsing history on exit.”

- Next, click on the Delete button.

- Another window will open.  If you have Internet Explorer 7 or 8, you will probably see “Preserve favorites website data” with a check box next to it.  Un-check this box.

- Below this, you will see this list of options with check boxes next to them:

• Temporary Internet Files
• Cookies
• History
• Form data
• Passwords
• InPrivate Filtering data

- Click on each of the boxes, which will make a check in each box.

- Click Delete.

- Another window will open that says Delete Browsing History.  This is assembling the files that have accumulated and deleting them.

- This window will automatically disappear once the computer is done cleaning.

- At the bottom of the window that is still open (The Internet Options window), click OK to close the window.

Congratulations!  You have just taken the first step towards cleaning your computer, speeding it up a bit, and protecting your identity.

Copyright 2011 KoolKomputer LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Processors for Advanced Desktops and Laptops

Remember:  Processors for desktops are different than those for laptops.

For an Advanced Desktop Computer, you’re basically looking for a beefy 8-cylinder engine in a speedy sports car.  Since an advanced computer should be able to multi-task without flinching, we recommend purchasing a new desktop computer with one of the following:

*Intel Core i7 processor (with something such as an 8MB L3 Cache, 2.66GHz speed).

*Intel has th Intel Core i7 Processor Extreme Edition, which they claim to be their fastest and smartest processor to date.  You’ll see these processors in a new line of high-end desktops from Dell, called Alienware, which start in the $2,000 plus range.  Based on reviews, this processor and the Alienware desktop are extremely fast and powerful.

For an Advanced Laptop Computer, we recommend buying a laptop with at least an Intel Core 2 Duo T6600 processor or an Intel Core i7-720QM Quad Core Processor. As of this writing (March 2010), these are the fastest processors on the market for laptops.  If you want to have something faster, you’ll have to check out an advanced desktop.  You can only put so much power in a little laptop body!

Memory for Advanced Desktops and Laptops

For an Advanced Desktop Computer, we recommend purchasing a machine with at least 6 GB of SDRAM memory.  You may also see memory listed for higher performance machines listed as something like “3GB DDR3 Tri-Channel SDRAM at 1066MHz – 3 DIMMs.”  For simplicity’s sake, look at the amount of GB’s and SDRAM.  As usual, the higher the GB’s you see listed, the more capacity your machine will have.

For an Advanced Laptop Computer, we recommend purchasing a machine with at least 4 to 6 GB of DDR3 memory.

Hard Drives for Advanced Desktops and Laptops

For an Advanced Desktop, we recommend buying a desktop with at least a 750GB through a 1TB (Terabyte) hard drive.

For an Advanced Laptop, we recommend buying a laptop with a least a 500GB through a 750GB hard drive.

Processors for Intermediate Desktops and Laptops

Heads Up!:  Processors for desktops are different than those for laptops.

For an Intermediate Desktop Computer, we recommend buying a desktop with at least an Intel Core 2 Duo Processor, which is not to be confused with the dual core processor.  Clear as mud, right?  (We’re not sure how the marketing departments in the processor companies come up with these names, but let’s not forget that they’re the same people who brought us commercials with people dancing around in silver spacesuits!)  Anyway, the Dual Core was born first.  The Core 2 Duo was born second, and is faster.  Here’s the bottom line:  If you’re looking at an intermediate desktop computer, in the $700 – $1000 range, look for one with an Intel Core 2 Duo Processor, with at least a 3MB Cache and at least 2.5GHz speed.

For an Intermediate Laptop Computer, we recommend buying a laptop with at least an Intel Pentium Dual Core T4400 Processor.  If you’ve gone shopping on the Dell and HP Websites, these are the processors you’ll most likely find.  However, since Toshiba tends to push the envelope with a more powerful machine, we’d recommend sticking with one of their laptops that comes with an Intel Core i3-330M Processor or an Intel Core i5-430M processor.

Memory for Intermediate Desktops and Laptops

For an Intermediate Desktop Computer, we recommend purchasing a desktop with at least 4 to 6 GB of SDRAM memory.  Here, too, you can usually upgrade the memory with little or no extra cost.

For Intermediate Laptops, we recommend purchasing a machine with at least 3 to 6 GB DDR3 memory.  You may see DDR2 versions of memory, but go with DDR3, since it’s the most current version!

Hard Drives for Intermediate Desktops and Laptops

For an Intermediate Desktop, we recommend buying desktops with at least a 500GB through a 1TB (Terabyte) hard drive.

For an Intermediate Laptop, we recommend buying a laptop with at least a 320GB through a 500 GB hard drive.

Processors for Basic Desktops and Laptops

For a Basic Desktop Computer, you should try to purchase a desktop with an Intel Core Duo or Dual Core processor. These are consistently reliable processors. Since the names of the processors change every few minutes and get even more confusing, our suggestion is try to buy a desktop that has at least a processor with a dual (or duo) capability.  The dual/duo capability terms basically mean that the manufacturer’s processor is basically trying to double the computer’s speed (Kind of like going from a 4-cylinder car engine to a 6 or 8-cylinder engine.).  Here’s our recommendation:  Stick with an Intel processor that’s at least a dual core with a 2.6 to 3MB Cache and 2.7 to 3 GHz speed.

For a Basic Laptop Computer you should also try to purchase a laptop with an Intel Pentium Processor T4300 or T4400.  The leading manufacturers of laptops, such as Dell, HP, and Toshiba, are currently including these processors in their machines (As of March 2010).  And, as you may have already guessed, the T4400 processors are a bit quicker.

Memory for Basic Desktops and Laptops

For a Basic Desktop Computer, most come standard with at least 2 GB of SDRAM.  Even for a Basic Desktop Computer, my recommendation is to purchase a computer with at least 2 to 4 GB of SDRAM.  In other words, get as much memory as you can afford. Here’s why: Since technology grows leaps and bounds, software programs, Internet connections, Internet browsers, games, etc., begin to take up more and more space on your computer. Any and all of these applications have historically sucked up more memory with each new version, upgrade, etc. The last thing you want to have is a brand new version of Microsoft Word that takes half an hour to open because there’s not enough memory on your machine.  Chances are, it’s not a huge cost to purchase a desktop computer with more SDRAM, and it will save you from aggravation later on.

For a Basic Laptop Computer,  our recommend that you purchase a machine with at least 2 to 4 GB or DDR (SDRAM) memory.

Hard Drives for Basic Computers and Laptops

For a Basic Computer, you’ll notice that most basic laptops and desktops will come standard with at least a 320GB to 500GB hard drive.  If you can afford it, we recommend that you buy a desktop or laptop with at least a 500GB hard drive. Why? For the same reasons we mentioned above, which are as technology grows leaps and bounds, software programs, Internet connections, Internet browsers, games, etc., begin to take up more and more space on your computer. While you’re shopping, you’ll find that some computers look like a real deal because they’re inexpensive. However, once you look closely at the computer, and you realize it only has a 160GB hard drive, you might want to re-consider. Buying a 160GB hard drive nowadays is like buying a two-seater sports car with a trunk so small that it only holds a pack of gum!

For a Basic Desktop Computer, we recommend buying at least a 320GB through a 500GB hard drive.

For a Basic Laptop Computer, we recommend buying at least a 250GB through a 500GB hard drive.

The easiest way to get started is to first think about how you’re going to use your new computer.

Basic Desktop and Laptop Computer:

If you are just looking to access the Internet to look at Websites a few nights a week, check your e-mail, do a little online banking, do some home budgeting or spreadsheet action, etc., you most likely will need what we’ll call a Basic Computer. The good news is that you probably won’t have to spend much to get a new laptop or desktop, which will cost somewhere in the $400 – $700 range.

Intermediate Desktop and Laptop Computer:

If you are looking to access the Internet to surf the Web, access e-mail, chat with friends, play games online, and basically be on your computer at least 5-7 times a week, you are going to need what we’ll call an Intermediate Computer. In addition, if you have younger kids (i.e., pre-teens), and you’ll be sharing the computer with them, put yourself in this category, too. You’re going to need a little more muscle in your machine in terms of both storage and speed, and you will most likely need a cable or DSL connection.  An intermediate computer will cost somewhere between $700 – $1000.

Advanced Desktop Computer and Laptop Computer:

Take an Intermediate Computer and add the desire to take and store lots of photographs, make/copy CD’s/DVD’s, store and watch videos, play interactive games, etc., then you are going to need what we’ll call an Advanced Computer. Although you may be purchasing a computer for the first time, your new machine is going to have to be more like a 6- or 8-cylinder engine, rather than a 4-cylinder engine. You’re going to need a strong Internet connection, plenty of speed, and lots of storage. Otherwise, you might go crazy trying to view a Web site that’s taking half an hour to show up on your screen.  An advanced computer will cost at least $1,000 and up.

Here’s how to install the latest Norton product:

To download it over the Web and install it:

Open a Web browser, such as Internet Explorer.

• Click this link to go to the Norton chart (You can choose your favorite product at the bottom of the page):    http://www.symantec.com/norton/internet-security
• We recommend clicking on the Download + Backup CD option (Where available).
• The next page will probably have purchasing information on it.  PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY.  Sometimes they will add in additional services or products automatically, and you will have to de-select those you do not want.
• Follow the purchasing and downloading instructions carefully.

To install the Norton product using a CD, just pop the CD into your computer’s CD/DVD drive player and CAREFULLY follow the directions.

Ok, You Installed It.  Now What?

After first installing Norton, you’ll notice that towards the end of installation, you’ll see a pop-up window that says something like “Updating Definitions.”  This means is your computer is being updated with the latest and greatest protection from Norton.

After Norton has been installed, it may automatically start running a virus scan.  My advice is to just let it run.  It should take about 15 or 20 minutes, but let it do its thing.  If the scan identifies viruses, you’ll be asked whether you’d like to remove them or not.  Of course, you want to get them off your machine, so kill ‘em!

After the installation and scan, you should re-start your computer once more.  Most likely, the installation directions will prompt you to do this anyway.  But, just in case, make sure to re-start your machine once installation is complete.  This should make sure your new stuff is humming along and any old viruses are gone.

After your machine re-starts, you may notice that your computer may be a bit slow at first.  Don’t panic.  It’s just Norton kind of settling in.  If, in fact, you haven’t run a scan yet, you should do so now.  Get in the habit of doing this at least once a week.  To do so, click the Norton icon on your screen and select Run a Scan.  You should always do a Full Scan because it’s far more thorough than a Quick Scan.  Yes, it takes more time, but it’s examining and cleaning everything on your computer, and yes, saving your butt!

What’s Your Type?:  3 Types of Scanners

Basic Scanners

Let’s say that you already have a computer and a printer that you’re already happy with, but you’d like to convert all those family photo albums to a digital format every now and again.  On the other hand, perhaps you have an occasional bill, invoice, etc., that you’d like to store digitally and shred the paper to save on storage space around the home or office.  If these scenarios ring true, check out a basic scanner.  Usually, basic scanners will cost anywhere from about $75 to $150, depending on what’s on sale, etc.  Scanners in this range are not usually built for heavy usage, and they are also designed to produce a digital image with good resolution.  Expect to see scanners in this price range with a minimum of 4800 dpi.  It’s also important to note that basic scanners are usually designed to scan only one thing at a time.

Intermediate Scanners

If you plan on scanning documents or images on a weekly basis, take a look at scanners that run in the $150 to $300 range.  In this category, you’ll probably see scanners that have anywhere from a 4800 dpi resolution to 6400 dpi resolution.  Some scanner manufacturers will also throw in extra document feeders, the ability to scan 35mm slides and negatives, and who-knows-what else.  Shop around, and you can probably find some good deals on scanners with a minimum of a 6400 dpi resolution and the ability to scan slides and negatives.

Advanced Scanners

If you have a need to scan lots of documents and/or images daily (as in hundreds or thousands), take a look at scanners in this category.  Scanners that can handle heavy workloads will cost anywhere from $400 to the thousands.  The more expensive scanners are designed to handle constant work on a daily business, and they are most often designed for small to large offices, departments, or companies.  Scanners in this range usually scan the fastest, can scan large format documents and images (such as 11 x 17 sheets of paper), have 2 or more document feeders, etc.  Some manufacturers split out their image scanner products from their document scanners.  As a result, the document scanners that are faster most likely will have a lower dpi resolution.  Make sure you check the dpi and other add-ons that you need before making a purchase.

Copyright 2011 KoolKomputer LLC.  All Rights Reserved.

Ever wonder how you can convert a written document into a digital image?  Or, how about converting those old photo album pictures into digital images?  Do you have oodles of 35mm slides or negatives that you’d like to convert to digital images?  Well, you need a scanner!  In general, scanners can connect directly to your computer or your network.  Once installed, you can easily convert documents, photos, or slides into digital images with your scanner.  In the past, professional designers and photographers often took old photos, converted them to a digital format, and even touched them up so they look good as new.  Fortunately, scanner technology now allows even basic users to do the same.

Nowadays, scanners can be purchased as stand-alone machines, or you can buy a so-called “all-in-one” that has a scanner included in it.  Most scanners can be categorized by how much you’ll use them and the amount of resolution that images from the scanner will be.  Resolution is simply the sharpness of the image after it is scanned.  For example, the higher the resolution on a scanner, which is often listed as something like “6400 x 9600 dpi resolution,” the crisper the image or document that you scanned will appear on paper or on-screen.  (By the way, dpi means dots per inch.)  As you might guess, the higher the resolution that a scanner delivers, along with its potential workload capacity, the higher the price of the scanner.

Copyright 2011 KoolKomputer LLC.  All Rights Reserved.

The Combination Printers: All-in-Ones and Multifunction Printers

In the midst of trying to figure out what kind of computer, printer, fax, scanner, etc., you may need, and the differences amongst them, printer manufacturers came up with the concept of an “all-in-one” printer. These are printers that can copy, scan, fax, and print. They are also called “multi-function” printers, depending on which printer manufacturer’s marketing department we’re dealing with!

In general, all-in-ones and “multis” are basically inkjets or laser printers at heart. The advantage of owning an all-in-one is that it saves you from having to buy a separate printer, fax machine, scanner, and so on. It’s great to have one if you have a home office or small business. However, one disadvantage of owning one is that some of the features may be better than others, and usually, not all of the features of a “multi” are top-notch. For example, you may find that the scanner of a multi has a resolution of 2400 x 4800 dpi or lower, which is about half of what a basic stand-alone scanner may have. Likewise, the printer may not be as fast or have the resolution that you might find on a stand-alone printer.

Overall, here are some things to consider while shopping for an all-in-one/multifunction printer:

-Remember that an all-in-one is a printer first and a copier, scanner, and fax machine second.
-Ask yourself if you just need a printer, or do you really need the fax, scanner, and copier, too? If you don’t need the other features, then just invest in a good printer.
-Do you need an inkjet printer or a laser printer? Inkjets are designed for less usage and lower resolution of images, while lasers are designed for more.
-Do you want a monochrome (black ink only) printer or color printer? Color printers and all-in-ones, especially color laser all-in-ones, will cost you more upfront and in the long run because of the multiple ink cartridges/toner needed.
-Check out printer and scanner reviews online before you purchase an all-in-one/multi.

Not sure where to start when shopping for a multifunction printer? Here are some suggestions:

Basic Multifunction Printer

In general, if you’re looking to have a basic printer, combined with a basic fax or copier, you can literally find an inkjet multifunction printer for as low as $100 to $150. Here, too, just make sure that the cost of replacing the ink won’t wreck your budget in the long run. Ink cartridges, even for these basic all-in-ones, can easily range from $15 to $35 per cartridge.

Intermediate Multifunction Printer

If you plan on printing at least 3 to 4 times a week in color, or you’d like a color photo multi that’s a bit faster, these printers will run you at least $150 to $400. In this category, you see all-in-ones with multiple sheet feeds, higher capacity inkjet cartridges, wireless routers, etc. Of course, as the price goes up, so does the amount of bells and whistles. Resolution levels for copies, faxes, and scans tend to increase, too. Just make sure that you’re choosing a machine that at least has the basic features you want – bells and whistles aside! Also, make sure you take a look at what the cost of the ink cartridges is.  Be aware of the fact that these inkjets tend to have at least 3 or 4 ink cartridges, and they may often cost you at least $30 per cartridge.

Advanced Multifunction Printer

This is where the high-end inkjet meets the laser multifunction printer. Just as with a simple laser printer, laser all-in-ones are designed for printing higher resolution images. They are also designed for a higher amount of documents to be copied, scanned, or printed routinely.

Nevertheless, read the labels carefully before you buy one of these. Some of the laser multis can copy or scan color, but they only print in black. Just like their plain ol’ cousins, the laser printers, replacement cartridges for laser all-in-ones are not cheap. They may cost you at least $75 – $100 per cartridge, depending on the model.

Overall, the basic price range for laser multifunction printers usually starts around $300 and goes into the thousands, depending on your needs. For color lasers, realize that everything that is printed, including copies and faxes, will print out in color. This means you will go through more ink toner cartridges than a black ink laser all-in-one.

Quick Shopping Checklist

One more suggestion: When evaluating a printer, make sure that you weigh the following factors before purchasing anything:

-Reliability of the model
-Speed of the model
-Capacity of the model and each ink cartridge
-Simplicity of usage
-Upfront cost
-Long-term ink cost

In general, make sure that you take the time to do a little research before buying a multifunction printer. Ask yourself what features you really will use, what you can afford, and what the strongest features of the printer actually are. The more research you do upfront might save you some money and prevent a few headaches in the future!

Copyright 2011 KoolKomputer LLC.  All Rights Reserved.