Old slow computers: breathing life into them

Hi Relatives,

A while ago, I talked about computers being slow and we went through instructing you in using a defragmentation program as well as anti-virus and anti-malware software.

If you have an older computer, then your operating system could be slowing you down. One young person, Golden Kobi, has an older computer that his father handed down to him. It has Windows 7 on it. The problem is that Windows 7 requirements are pretty severe for an older computer. Windows 7 requires at least 1GHz CPU, 1GB of RAM memory, and at least 16GB of hard drive space.
Golden Kobi's computer sometimes runs and if it runs, it is very slow.

Solution: Linux distribution (or version) of Lubunt 11.10. This is similar to Ubuntu 11.10 but is intended for computers with limited resources, which means old and slow computers.

I have successfully installed this operating system on a 10 year old Compaq Presario laptop and it works great! You might not be able to run demanding games or have 30 tabs open on your web browser, but you can do web surfing, write documents, and create graphic images quickly and easily.
The software is free and it works great. Most programs that you have been using, are now available for the Linux format. Microsoft Office suite has been very successfully replaced with Oracle's OpenOffice and an independent spin-off from OpenOffice, LibreOffice.
These office suites are very popular world-wide and are almost exactly like Microsoft Office. Microsoft Office is the premier office suite, but I've been using OpenOffice and LibreOffice for several years and I love them. There is only one thing I can think of that these two suites don't have is a multiple-level clipboard (meaning that you can have multiple cut-n-paste items available), but I have found a way around that with Clip-O-Matic for Windows (I'm working to find one for Linux). It does the same thing only better.
The best thing is that these office suites are very good, professional and free.


A Great Idea: ship your laptop to me and I will get it working, free. Just the cost of shipping both ways (remove the battery) and of course, donations are always appreciated.

There are other operating systems besides the ones I stated above.  If you have special requirements, let me know and we see if there is Linux program (distribution) that is better suited for you.



Welcome to the home of love, where your computer gets to know of hugs. Take the time to give it love, to ensure the spine stands, on the test of time (until you update protection files again). For only you can operate the golden rule, do unto your computer, who knows who to fool. But we do outwit the slyest fox, when we give love instead of gloves (put them up, combative forces). The greatest part of protection is clear, the smooth operation of moving in space is dear (world wide web). Protect my computer God above to bring the Angels down below. Bless and bless the common place, to be rest assured that all is grace.

Help for Older and Newer Computers

Dear Relatives,

Today, Monday, I briefly talked to Golden Koby about a computer that given to them. They took it to their nearby computer shop to see if they could gain access to the password but to no avail.
I reviewed some information from the Microsoft support website about system passwords and the results was that if you don't know and/or cannot get the password, you need to reinstall the operating system software.

Regarding older computers, this is what I would like to suggest to anyone who reads this blog posting:
Do not spend time or money taking older computers to the local shop to see if they can help.
Let me help you. If you don't want to, that's OK; I just wanted to offer because I love doing this kind of stuff.

I have two programs that I have become used used to that I can recommend for older (and newer) computers for free! The operating systems I am referring to are: Ubuntu 11.10 and Lubuntu 11.10. Some companies are shipping brand-new computers with Ubuntu 11.10.
Depending on the computer hardware, I can suggest which one to install on your computer. I can send you a CD-ROM or you can download these programs off the internet.

Please let me know what kind of computer you have that you cannot get the password for (or any computer for that matter).
1. the manufacturer name: might be on the laptop lid or if you have desktop computer, somewhere on the case, and might also be on the bottom or back of the computer.
2. open the laptop lid and look for any names or numbers.
3. look at the laptop bottom for any names or numbers including S/N numbers (serial numbers)
4. turn on the computer and watch for any names or numbers that whisk before your eyes. You might have to do this several times to get the information.
5. One more place that might have information is in BIOS. To get into this, turn on the computer and note at the bottom left of the screen, it will show F2 or F10 or Esc to get into BIOS. This will also go by pretty quick, so you might have to do it a couple of times to get it. Write down anything like manufacturer and model numbers, hard drive information, etc.
6. email me for more help. Do not be shy.

Given the information you get off of the computer or computers, I can get you started on using that computer that thought was ready for the recycle bin. Based on the information you send me, I might also recommend buying more memory or a better hard drive.
Some old slow computers have limited RAM memory that can be installed and that could be a limiting factor and you might have to face the fact that it is time to recycle. Again, let me help you decide.
Note: do not put old computers, printers, televisions or monitors into the trash. Always use recycle.
Love and blessings,
Holiness David







Welcome to the home of love, where your computer gets to know of hugs. Take the time to give it love, to ensure the spine stands, on the test of time (until you update protection files again). For only you can operate the golden rule, do unto your computer, who knows who to fool. But we do outwit the slyest fox, when we give love instead of gloves (put them up, combative forces). The greatest part of protection is clear, the smooth operation of moving in space is dear (world wide web). Protect my computer God above to bring the Angels down below. Bless and bless the common place, to be rest assured that all is grace.

Get computers to our less fortunate members or whoever else in the world comes along

Hi Relatives,

There are some people in the hoops who do not have computers.  They use their telephones to text messages for communicating with the hoops or they go to the library or into town to a business that has internet access (many coffee shops have WiFi). 

Relatives, would it be possible for you to dig out your old computer(s); together, you and I will take a look at it (or anyone else who wants to get in on the action) to see if it would be usable for someone?

Objective:  get computers to our less fortunate members or whoever else in the world comes along?

Together, we could:

1. Over-the-phone and using email, we will determine if it is a recoverable computer.  If you need help, I will guide you along step by step.
   
2. If you give it away, then any money spent becomes tax deductible: parts, shipping, mileage for running around, etc.
3. Software cost is no longer an issue.  Just about everything that is needed is available without cost (software programmers appreciate donations) and that includes operating system, office suites, drawing, painting, and engineering autocad and the list goes on and on: free.

You all know how much a recipient would benefit.  To be able to use the computer on the internet for email, to surf the internet to learn almost anything.  Create documents (write resumes), create web pages, create drawings and/or paintings, etc.
Everyone who touches the computer at each step in this revitalization process will learn.  It becomes an educational project as well as benefiting the recipient.What do you think?

COST should be little or nothing.  Maybe less than $20 per computer.  First we would need to determine what the computer needs to be functional or more functional.  From what I've seen, most older computers simply need more memory, hence the $20 number.

NOTE: Anyone receiving this email who needs a computer, please let us know.
 
Welcome to the home of love, where your computer gets to know of hugs. Take the time to give it love, to ensure the spine stands, on the test of time (until you update protection files again). For only you can operate the golden rule, do unto your computer, who knows who to fool. But we do outwit the slyest fox, when we give love instead of gloves (put them up, combative forces). The greatest part of protection is clear, the smooth operation of moving in space is dear (world wide web). Protect my computer God above to bring the Angels down below. Bless and bless the common place, to be rest assured that all is grace.

Family Clean Your Computer Day

Hi Relatives,

It is time for "Family Clean Your Computer Day"

Your computer needs to be cleaned from time to time. In this article I will instruct you in the cleaning of the cooling fans (more than 1), its grills or openings, and the keyboard.  Let's add monitor/display cleaning.

It has come to my attention that some people are having problems with their computer that could be related to overheating which is caused by dust and dirt!

If your computer is clogged up with dust and dirt, it can get HOT and then strange things start to happen.

1. The computer can just turn off if it overheats. Some power supplies are temperature protected; as the power supply heats up, it will turn off before damage occurs. Note: a power supply supplies provides power to the different components inside of the computer.
2. The computer can behave strangely; for example:
   1. Your computer might run slowly.
   2. CPUs (short for microprocessor) don't like being hot and will start to run poorly.
   3. The computer can forget things (memory gets stupid when it is very hot).
   4. Programs can do strange things like not responding to your inputs or when you try to save a file it hangs and does nothing or is slow to do it.
3. These days a lot of computers have fans for the CPU. If the fan stops working or gets clogged up with dust and dirt, it will get very hot and the CPU could become damaged.
4. The newest computers are better equipped to handle temperatures in such a way that damage does not occur. This is done by better mechanical design and by system software (CPU can go into a low power mode, for example).
5. But, even if you do have a new fancy computer, it still needs to cleaned periodically. 

Make it a family event!!
Here is a great idea: make this a family event. If you have several computers around the house, this would be a great time to get all of them cleaned up at the same time.

Cleaning Your Computer

Vacuuming the computer

Note: Turn off the computer and unplug from the AC wall outlet.
Note: Take pictures of the inside of the computer before doing anything. This is important; vacuuming could bump and/or dislodge cables from their connectors.

Desktop Computer:

1. From the back of the computer case, vacuum the fan and fan grill.
2. To get the computer case open, look at the left-side of the case. If it is hinged to swing open, you might see a large button; press the button and swing the left-side open.
3. The left-side of the case might be secured with two or three screws on the rear left side. Remove the screws and the left cover should slide toward the rear about 10 or 15 millimeters (about a ½ inch). After sliding toward the rear, pull it away from the case and set aside.
4. Note: If you are not comfortable with getting inside of the computer, then just vacuum the fan and fan grill. Do your best to get all dust you can see.
5. Very carefully, vacuum the keyboard. I have seen the keys (buttons) come off and you don't want any keys to get sucked into the vacuum. The alternative is to use a can of compressed air. This can still blow a key or keys off, but at least you will more easily be able to find it and put if back on.
   

Laptop Computer:

Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any visible dust. Sometimes you can see dust coming out of openings (any nooks and crannies). Do your best to get all dust you can see.

Remove the battery from the computer. Look to see if there is any dust coming out of nooks and crannies: blow it out.

Warning, Laptop keyboards:

Try not to get too aggressive or rough. The keys are fragile, can easily come off, and will not take any abuse. If a key comes off, carefully, gently snap it back in place. Look it over carefully and you'll see how it goes back on. Call me if you need help.

If you DO have overheating problems, and if vacuuming and blowing does not solve it, then I suggest a free program called Speedfan (there are others, but I've tried this one). The program monitors the fans, temperatures, and voltages inside the computer.

Cleaning the monitor, display, or television

(henceforth we call it a monitor)

First, unplug the monitor from the AC outlet at the wall.

Use a clean (must be clean) clothe with a mild soap or no soap (I use a brand-new out-of-the-package sponge).  Make sure that the clothe is damp but not wet (if a single drop of water gets into the display, permanent damage could occur).  Wipe down twice with clean damp clothe (same clothe, just rinsed each time).

 If you have any questions, please don't hesitate asking. Email holinessdavid@alightfromwithin.org for help. I can call anyone around the world (almost everyone), just need your number to verify. And I speak English in order to help you, otherwise, please email and I can get translation for you for assistance.

Thank you, Holiness David (Running Eagle Shooting Star),
lavender child, alightfromwithin.org, Rainbow Warriors of Prophecy.

Rainbow Warriors of Prophecy

Pray With Elders around the World

Sacred Song Blessings
Rainbow Warriors of Prophecy

Crystal (flesh) Indigo (soul) Children (dream) 

Learn Warrior Skills with the Peaceful Wisdom Prayer!

Join us on the Hoops and Learn about Evolution

My computer is protected

 

Welcome to the home of love, where your computer gets to know of hugs. Take the time to give it love, to ensure the spine stands, on the test of time (until you update protection files again). For only you can operate the golden rule, do unto your computer, who knows who to fool. But we do outwit the slyest fox, when we give love instead of gloves (put them up, combative forces). The greatest part of protection is clear, the smooth operation of moving in space is dear (world wide web). Protect my computer God above to bring the Angels down below. Bless and bless the common place, to be rest assured that all is grace.

Lenovo Thinkpad Keyboard Tips

By Nick Davis, eHow Contributor 

updated October 24, 2010

 
 
 
• Print this article

1. • Your Lenovo ThinkPad contains a keyboard similar to a desktop computer's keyboard.

     Lenovo Thinkpads contain standard keyboards with a row of function keys that allow quick access to various menus, application functions and controls. The keyboards also include an integrated numeric keyboard accessible by toggling the "Num Lock" key on and off. Like other keyboards, the Lenovo Thinkpad contains "CTRL" and "ALT" keys that provide additional functions within certain applications and documents.

   "CTRL" Key Copy, Paste and Cut Tips

   • Press and hold the "CTRL" key on your Lenovo ThinkPad's keyboard and press the "A" key to select all of the text on a specific document or website. The text will highlight. To copy the highlighted text to your ThinkPad's clipboard, press and hold "CTRL" then press "C." To paste the text into another document, email or other application, press and hold "CTRL" then press "V."

     To delete the highlighted text, press and hold the "CTRL" key then press "X."

   "CTRL" Key Save, Print and File Delete Tips

   • Press and hold the "CTRL" key then press "S" to save the document or website currently open. To print the open document or website, press and hold the "CTRL" key then press "P."

     To delete a file within an "Open" dialog box, click the file's name, press and hold the "Shift" key then press the "Delete" key. Click "Yes" to confirm you want to permanently delete the file.

   ThinkPad's Windows Key

   • Press the Windows logo key to open your ThinkPad's "Start" menu. Press the up arrow key and the right arrow key on your computer's keyboard to navigate the Start menu if you don't want to use your computer's mouse.

   Internet Explorer ThinkPad Keyboard Tips

   • Press and hold the "CTRL" key then press "F" to bring up Internet Explorer's "Find" box for finding words on a specific website. Press and hold the "CTRL" key then press "+" to zoom into a website; press and hold the "CTRL" key then press "-" to zoom out of a website.

   ThinkPad External Monitor and Projector Shortcut

   • Press and hold the "FN" key on your ThinkPad's keyboard then press the "F7" function key to open the external monitor menu and toggle between your ThinkPad's LCD screen and an external monitor. Use the arrow keys to select if you want to display on one monitor, both monitors or to exit the external monitor menu completely.

   "ESC" Key

   • Exit the "full-screen" mode on videos, slideshows in PowerPoint and other multimedia applications by pressing the ThinkPad's "ESC" key to return to the website or program's main dialog window.

   Accessing the Task Manager

   • Access Windows Task Manager by pressing "CTRL," "ALT" and "Delete" together. To restart your ThinkPad, press the "CTRL," "ALT" and "Delete" sequence repeatedly until your laptop restarts.

   ThinkPad Display Zoom Function

   • Press and hold the "FN" key then the "Space" bar to zoom into documents and applications other than Internet Explorer. Click "130" or "170" percent on the System Tray by the clock to select the zoom amount.

   Accessing ThinkPad Reading Light and Screen Brightness

   • Press and hold the "FN" key then the "PgUp" or "PgDn" key to toggle the reading light on and off. Press and hold the "FN" key then "Home" or "End" to adjust your laptop's screen brightness.

Read more: Lenovo Thinkpad Keyboard Tips | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_7386925_lenovo-thinkpad-keyboard-tips.html#ixzz1WIln81mZ

Rainbow Warriors of Prophecy

Pray With Elders around the World

Sacred Song Blessings
Rainbow Warriors of Prophecy

Crystal (flesh) Indigo (soul) Children (dream) Learn Warrior Skills with the Peaceful Wisdom Prayer!

Join us on the Hoops and Learn about Evolution

My computer is protected

 

Welcome to the home of love, where your computer gets to know of hugs. Take the time to give it love, to ensure the spine stands, on the test of time (until you update protection files again). For only you can operate the golden rule, do unto your computer, who knows who to fool. But we do outwit the slyest fox, when we give love instead of gloves (put them up, combative forces). The greatest part of protection is clear, the smooth operation of moving in space is dear (world wide web). Protect my computer God above to bring the Angels down below. Bless and bless the common place, to be rest assured that all is grace.

Windows System Restore feature

Hi Relatives,

It is time for me to pester you all about backing up your data! Yes, we need to keep in mind that things could happen that will mess up your life; like a hard drive failure. If your hard drive fails and you don't have your data backed up, you have problems.
There is also a difference between Restore and Backup.  When I read the definitions for each they seem synonymous.  In the next article we'll cover Backup.

Windows XP and Windows 7 both have what they call a "Restore Point."  This feature is primarily used to recover an operating system to an earlier time and date due to virus damage or maybe you installed a program that causes problems (even after you uninstall it).  You simply select a Restore Point (from a popup calendar)  you want to revert your system to and you're back in business, hopefully.  Hopefully: what I mean by this I will explain further down.

"System Restore" can track and reverse harmful changes to your computer"  The "Restore Point" is that data that is saved for a particular time and date.

Summary:
1. Start using Restore Point
2. Restore your computer back to a certain time/date or to create a Restore Point
3. When System Restore does not fix the problem

1. Start using Restore Point

1. Click on the Windows logo key: 
2. Select Control Panel
3. Double left-click on System
4. Click on the System Restore tab
5. Make sure that the check-box, "Turn off System Restore on all drives" is unchecked
6. That is all that is needed to start using System Restore.

2. Restore your computer back to a certain time/date or to create a Restore Point

1. Click on Start in the lower left corner
2. Click on Help and Support
3. Find and click on Undo changes to your computer with System Restore
4. The popup box will guide you through Restore my computer to an earlier time or Create a restore point
5. During a restore, the calendar dates that have Restore Points will be in bold.
   
6. Note: the popup box states:  "...returns your computer to an earlier time without causing you to lose recent work, such as saved documents, e-mail, or history and favorite lists"

3. When System Restore does not fix the problem
If you have done a System Restore to a selected Restore Point and your problems have not gone away, you might need to wipe your hard drive clean and reinstall everything.  This can be a formidable task; but it isn't too bad if you take your time and make sure that you have saved everything, which includes all of the programs installed and all of your data (pictures, multi-media, documents, etc.).  Before I do a clean install, I usually spend several days making sure that I have remembered everything.  Invariably, there is usually something I forget.  These days, almost everything can be re- downloaded from the internet quickly and easily.

1. One trick in remembering your installed programs is to take a picture of "All Programs."  Click on Start and then click on All Programs.  While All Programs are displayed, touch PrtSc (Print Screen).  Open a document program and paste the PrtSC (Print Screen) onto the page and save it to a USB memory stick (flash drive or what ever you want to call it).  When saved, you will have a picture of the programs you have installed.  You can do the same thing for your Firefox browser by clicking on Add-ons and also for Plugins.  Anything else you can think of that needs to be saved and referred to during reinstall can be done in this manner.
2. Here is a good idea: Make sure you have the installation discs for the programs you want to reinstall.
3. Back up your data, which includes pictures, documents, various computer settings and other things like your bookmarks (Favorites), downloads, etc.  In a Windows system, you need to save information that is kept in a folder named "Documents and Settings."  If you have done things, like saving your documents or bookmarks in a default way, it all goes into "Documents and Settings" and you have to careful that that folder gets backed up.  If you have created folders of your own, separate from "Documents and Settings,"  you, of course, will have to save that as well.
4. Lenovo and HP have their own software for you to use to back up your data.  Their software makes it very simple to save your data.  They have options for reinstall all or parts of your hard drive data.  For example, you can restore your computer to the way it was when it left the factory or to repair the operating system.  You can also choose to restore certain files.  If you are having trouble getting this done because some wording is confusing or whatever, please call me and we will tackle the problem together.

Next topic will be how to Backup your data and how to retrieve data after a problem.

With love and blessings,

Holiness David

Elder lavender child
alightfromwithin.org
rainbow warriors of prophecy



Welcome to the home of love, where your computer gets to know of hugs. Take the time to give it love, to ensure the spine stands, on the test of time (until you update protection files again). For only you can operate the golden rule, do unto your computer, who knows who to fool. But we do outwit the slyest fox, when we give love instead of gloves (put them up, combative forces). The greatest part of protection is clear, the smooth operation of moving in space is dear (world wide web). Protect my computer God above to bring the Angels down below. Bless and bless the common place, to be rest assured that all is grace.