Improve the Performance of Your Dell PC or Laptop
When you buy a PC or laptop from Dell, they give you a huge amount of choice, making it easy to find the machine that fits your requirements. But you may find at a later date that you want more from your computer, and that it has trouble keeping up with your demands. You can get more from your Dell computer by giving it a memory upgrade.
A memory upgrade will increase the amount of RAM (Random Access Memory) your Dell machine is able to access. This helps to improve the machine's performance and allows you to do more with your Dell computer.
Why You May Need a Dell Memory Upgrade
Adding more memory to your Dell machine gives you a number of benefits. The most immediately obvious effect is that your PC or laptop will be faster. If you've been getting fed up with the time it takes your computer to start up when you switch it on, or the time it takes to open documents and other files, then a Dell memory upgrade is the answer.
Giving your Dell computer extra memory also allows you to do more things at once. Added memory means you can have more software applications running simultaneously, and have more files open at the same time - ideal for multi-tasking or comparing more than one document. This also means you can have more processes running in the background, so you don't have to waste time shutting one application down to open another.
Certain processes, such as video editing, make huge demands on a computer's memory. If you're finding that a particular application that you use quite often is causing your Dell laptop or PC to slow down, increasing the memory of your Dell machine will certainly help.
Where You Can Get a Dell Memory Upgrade
Getting a Dell memory upgrade is fairly straightforward, but you do need to make sure that the memory you are buying is compatible with your specific Dell machine. Currently the most common types of computer memory are DDR and DDR2, but some Dell machines use different types of memory module.
Your Dell computer manual will contain information on what kind of memory will work for your PC or laptop. If in doubt, talk to a Dell spare parts supplier. They will be able to advise you on the most appropriate RAM upgrade for your machine, as well as the amount of memory that would suit your requirements.
Once you know what you need, you can buy a Dell memory upgrade from any computer store or Dell spare parts supplier, either locally or online. If you've already been speaking to a Dell spares supplier for advice, then they should have the components you need to increase the memory of your Dell machine. If not, then your local computer store or an online Dell parts supplier will have the memory upgrade, or will be able to order it in for you. Memory upgrades are not particularly expensive, and can make a real difference to the performance power of your Dell computer.
Installing a Dell Memory Upgrade
Installing new memory to your Dell computer will, of course, require removal of the computer case and some work inside the computer itself. If you are not confident about doing this, ask a computer technician or a technically-minded friend to help.
If you are happy to do the installation yourself, make sure you're fully prepared before getting started. You will probably need a screwdriver to remove the outer cover of your Dell computer - although some covers can be removed without tools. One piece of equipment you do need is an antistatic wrist strap. This prevents static electricity from your body from causing any damage to the sensitive electronic components of your computer. In terms of tools, you should not need anything else - just concentration and a little patience.
Before removing the casing of your computer, you will need to remove all the cables that are connected to the machine. You may find it helpful to label each cable before unplugging it, to remind yourself where each cable goes when it comes to reattaching them. Most of the ports on a computer will only fit a specific type of cable, but it's better to be safe than sorry.
Once you have removed the outer casing, you need to find the correct slot for your Dell memory upgrade. Slots for extra memory should be located in the computer's motherboard. The motherboard is a large circuit board which contains some of the most essential components of your computer. There will be two or more memory slots in the motherboard. At least one of them will already contain the computer's existing memory, which may help to make the slots easier to find.
On a Dell computer, or any other machine, the memory slots need to be populated in order. For example, if there are three slots and only the first one is holding a memory module, the next memory upgrade needs to be plugged into the second slot, not the third.
To insert the memory, make sure the notches on the card are correctly aligned with the memory slot (they will only fit one way). Also make sure that the locking clips at either side of the slot are pushed outwards and 'unlocked'. Gently slide the memory module into the grooves on the locking clips. Then apply firm and even pressure to the card to push it into the slot. As you do this, the locking clips will move into the 'locked' position. Once the memory module is fully inserted they will hold it firmly in the slot. Your memory is then installed!
Once you have installed the memory, you will need to check your Dell computer to make sure that everything is running correctly. You can leave the cover off for this. It won't cause any harm to the machine and will save time if you need to get back inside. Make sure all the cables are reconnected correctly. Turn the monitor on and let it warm up for about ten seconds, then switch the computer on. As your Dell machine boots up, it should display the amount of memory available. This should of course be a total of the original amount of memory plus the amount of the upgrade. If this is incorrect, or the computer has a problem starting up, you may not have installed the memory correctly, or you may have disconnected another component by mistake. You will need to go back and check that everything is properly connected. If you get into real trouble, then you may have to seek technical advice.
Hopefully, you've managed to install your Dell memory upgrade without any complications. Now your Dell computer is ready to run faster, better, and more efficiently.
Hardware Associates are Dell spare parts suppliers in the UK, supplying a full range of Dell memory upgrades, along with all other types of spare parts, components and equipment for all models of Dell PCs and laptops.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robin_Fry
Thursday, October 30, 2008
What the 127.0.0.1 IP Address Means
Behind all the names on the urls of Internet websites are a series of numbers called IP (Internet Protocol) addresses. IP stands for Internet Protocol, and constitute the primary network layer for use on the Web.
The 127.0.0.1 IP
This particular IP address, also called a local host, is the basis for which loopback network connections are processed. Loopback means going back, and that is what 127.0.0.1 does, because it is the address of your machine. Using telnet, ftp, or try in any way to get to 127.0.0.1, you will be transported back to the host machine, yours. However, it is only the initial three numbers (127) that are needed; use any number combination with 127 and the result will be the same.
A frequent joke among programmers is to get the greenhorn to connect to this IP address. However, in reality the IP address has serious functions.
Uses and Purpose
There are several practical uses for this IP address. The most common example would for a software developer or network systems administrator to try out new applications or experiment with unique set ups. This can also be used by programmers who design software that talks to each other through the computer.
This IP address is also used for beta testing a host of web applications, from Java applets, Active X controls to web browsers.
It usually begins with the client sending out a message to server, which would be possible only if the 127.0.0.1 address is used. The result would be, if a web browser were to relay the request, a return to the host page of the site
The other popular usage of the local host IP address are gaming servers, which are interconnected to local hosts. By using the local hosts, the process and the flow of information becomes more streamlined and efficient.
Because it functions as a loopback, this IP address cannot be used in any network element or node.
Testing the Loopback Properties of 127.0.0.1
You do not need to be a computer programmer to test the loopback function of this address. You can go to the command prompt of your operating system, and at the c:\ type the following: "ping 127.0.0.1". After hitting the Enter key, you will get an answer like "Reply from 127.0.0.1...".
If you type in "ping localhost" instead of the numbers, the result would be the same, as localhost and 127.0.0.1 are the same.
You can also try it on telnet: assuming that the computer assigned to you has the name "Dan" you will get the following result:
# telnet 127.0.0.1
Trying 127.0.0.1...
Connected to dan
Escape character is '^]'
Currently IPv4 is the standard in use on the Internet today. Aside from 127.0.0.1, other reserved addresses are 10.0.0.0/8 (for private networks), 169.254.0.0/16 (for link local),
Others are 192.88.99.0/24 (relays from IPv6 to UPv4), 255.255.255 (for broadcast), 224.0.0.0/4 for Multicasts (former Class D network), 240.0.0.0/4 for Class E Network, 192.0.2.0/24 for Documentation and example code and 198.18.0.0/15 for Network benchmark tests; 172.16.0.0/12 is also used for private networks.
Peter Garant is writing articles about 127.0.0.1 localhost for a site about the 127.0.0.1 IP number in local networks.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Garant
The 127.0.0.1 IP
This particular IP address, also called a local host, is the basis for which loopback network connections are processed. Loopback means going back, and that is what 127.0.0.1 does, because it is the address of your machine. Using telnet, ftp, or try in any way to get to 127.0.0.1, you will be transported back to the host machine, yours. However, it is only the initial three numbers (127) that are needed; use any number combination with 127 and the result will be the same.
A frequent joke among programmers is to get the greenhorn to connect to this IP address. However, in reality the IP address has serious functions.
Uses and Purpose
There are several practical uses for this IP address. The most common example would for a software developer or network systems administrator to try out new applications or experiment with unique set ups. This can also be used by programmers who design software that talks to each other through the computer.
This IP address is also used for beta testing a host of web applications, from Java applets, Active X controls to web browsers.
It usually begins with the client sending out a message to server, which would be possible only if the 127.0.0.1 address is used. The result would be, if a web browser were to relay the request, a return to the host page of the site
The other popular usage of the local host IP address are gaming servers, which are interconnected to local hosts. By using the local hosts, the process and the flow of information becomes more streamlined and efficient.
Because it functions as a loopback, this IP address cannot be used in any network element or node.
Testing the Loopback Properties of 127.0.0.1
You do not need to be a computer programmer to test the loopback function of this address. You can go to the command prompt of your operating system, and at the c:\ type the following: "ping 127.0.0.1". After hitting the Enter key, you will get an answer like "Reply from 127.0.0.1...".
If you type in "ping localhost" instead of the numbers, the result would be the same, as localhost and 127.0.0.1 are the same.
You can also try it on telnet: assuming that the computer assigned to you has the name "Dan" you will get the following result:
# telnet 127.0.0.1
Trying 127.0.0.1...
Connected to dan
Escape character is '^]'
Currently IPv4 is the standard in use on the Internet today. Aside from 127.0.0.1, other reserved addresses are 10.0.0.0/8 (for private networks), 169.254.0.0/16 (for link local),
Others are 192.88.99.0/24 (relays from IPv6 to UPv4), 255.255.255 (for broadcast), 224.0.0.0/4 for Multicasts (former Class D network), 240.0.0.0/4 for Class E Network, 192.0.2.0/24 for Documentation and example code and 198.18.0.0/15 for Network benchmark tests; 172.16.0.0/12 is also used for private networks.
Peter Garant is writing articles about 127.0.0.1 localhost for a site about the 127.0.0.1 IP number in local networks.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Garant
10 Easy Tips to Improve Computer Performance
Many computer problems can be solved with free or low-cost products or just by using a few common sense tips to improve performance and keep your PC running for a long time.
Computers often freeze or crash when one needs them the most; in the middle of an important presentation, a term paper that's due the next day, or while updating our financial software. Many computer problems can be solved with free or low-cost products or just by using a few common sense tips to improve performance and keep your PC running for a long time.
1. Registry Scan - The registry cleaner scans the registry to trace the obsolete date, deletes it to enable your computer to run error free and enhance the performance of your computer. Most cleaners have a backup function to help you backup your registry before cleaning it in case you encounter a system failure. You can get a free registry cleaner or trial version. My opinion is to select a licensed registry cleaning so
licensed registry cleaning software for this purpose like Registry Easy.
2. Virus Scan Program - The most essential thing to have is a virus scan that is run weekly. Most new computers come with a virus scan already installed. If the computer you are using doesn't have a virus scan there are free scans available online, but one really should be installed on your computer if you spend any time at all online. Spend the time learning how to use your virus scanner. Find out how it's updated - most update automatically - and use the options to set it up to run automatically at a set time every week. Most computer problems can be prevented just by having a virus scanner installed.
3. Run the Defragmenter program - Another program that you should run about every two months is called Disk Defragmenter. Defrag will arrange your files better so your PC can access them faster. It's best to run this program after the Scandisk program is finished.
To run Disk Defragmenter go back to the "System Tools" and choose "Disk Defragmenter". It's best to run this program overnight as it takes a long time.
You should not be using these programs while using other programs on your computer. If the Scandisk or Defrag program keeps starting over you may need to run the programs in Safe Mode, a special diagnostic mode. Read the manual for your PC to find out how to put your PC into Safe Mode.
4. Use a Firewall program - For anyone on a DSL or cable connection a personal firewall keeps viruses, hijackers and hackers from your computer. Since you are constantly connected to the internet by using these connections there is a constant threat that others may try to access your computer. There are free firewall programs available for download.
5. Run a Spyware program - Another important program is a spyware search program. When you download something from the internet sometimes other software is included. This software is called "spyware" and it can do many things to harm your computer, including letting someone from another website see what websites you surf in order to send you advertising. Other spyware tries to steal your passwords or other personal information. You should run a spyware checker at least once a month or at any time you are experiencing problems with your connection or computer speed.
6. Run a hi-jacker search program - Another important program to have is a hi-jacker search program. A hi-jacker changes your homepage to a different search engine page and can also block links to common search pages. They are trying to force you to use their homepage. Some of the hi-jacker's homepages are not pages you would like your children to see. You should use a hi-jacker search program at least once a month or whenever you are having a problem with your homepage.
7. Clear your temporary files - Sometimes your PC's virtual memory will become full. When this happens your computer may run slow, give you error messages or freeze during a program. This happens because everything you do on your PC - every picture on every webpage, every document you type, every photo you change - is saved somewhere on your PC, even after you have left that page and closed the document. In order to erase this memory you need to do the following steps:
Open your internet browser. Go to "Tools", "Internet Options".
A box will pop open. It should be open to the "General" tab.
In the center of the box is a section marked "Temporary Internet Files".
Click on "Delete Cookies" and "Delete Files" one at a time. This will delete the temporary files that are clogging the PC's memory.
8. Change your history options - Another way to clean out your computer's memory is to change how many days it saves visited pages. You will find a "history" box in your internet options. It asks how many days you wish to keep pages in history. This is the part of the computer that saves all pages you've visited for as many days as you wish. By saving these pages for a smaller number of days you can clear up more of your PC's memory.
9. Clean out old files - Periodically going through the files in My Documents or other folders you have set up and deleting or archiving them on a CD can also help your computer's memory and performance. Do you really need to keep a saved copy of last semester's English term paper? If not, delete it. You can also go through the programs on your PC from the control panel and delete those you no longer use. Don't delete any of the shared files, though, if it asks, because that can cause more problems.
10. Reboot the PC occasionally - The last thing that is very important to do but seems simple is just to turn your computer off periodically. Your PC needs to be restarted in order to reset itself after new programs or equipment is installed. It also erases the virtual memory from the last session and goes through a self-diagnostic to look for any problems. It sounds like a simple solution, but most problems can be fixed simply by restarting your PC.
Troubleshooting your PC's problems doesn't have to cost a lot of money or require technical expertise. By using just a few software programs and common sense most problems can be stopped and you will find that your PC has better performance and reliability.
Do you want to improve your computer performance? If you want to find out how to increase your computer performance, please read the complete review about Registry Easy where you can also take a FREE PC Scan.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=P_Tab
Computers often freeze or crash when one needs them the most; in the middle of an important presentation, a term paper that's due the next day, or while updating our financial software. Many computer problems can be solved with free or low-cost products or just by using a few common sense tips to improve performance and keep your PC running for a long time.
1. Registry Scan - The registry cleaner scans the registry to trace the obsolete date, deletes it to enable your computer to run error free and enhance the performance of your computer. Most cleaners have a backup function to help you backup your registry before cleaning it in case you encounter a system failure. You can get a free registry cleaner or trial version. My opinion is to select a licensed registry cleaning so
licensed registry cleaning software for this purpose like Registry Easy.
2. Virus Scan Program - The most essential thing to have is a virus scan that is run weekly. Most new computers come with a virus scan already installed. If the computer you are using doesn't have a virus scan there are free scans available online, but one really should be installed on your computer if you spend any time at all online. Spend the time learning how to use your virus scanner. Find out how it's updated - most update automatically - and use the options to set it up to run automatically at a set time every week. Most computer problems can be prevented just by having a virus scanner installed.
3. Run the Defragmenter program - Another program that you should run about every two months is called Disk Defragmenter. Defrag will arrange your files better so your PC can access them faster. It's best to run this program after the Scandisk program is finished.
To run Disk Defragmenter go back to the "System Tools" and choose "Disk Defragmenter". It's best to run this program overnight as it takes a long time.
You should not be using these programs while using other programs on your computer. If the Scandisk or Defrag program keeps starting over you may need to run the programs in Safe Mode, a special diagnostic mode. Read the manual for your PC to find out how to put your PC into Safe Mode.
4. Use a Firewall program - For anyone on a DSL or cable connection a personal firewall keeps viruses, hijackers and hackers from your computer. Since you are constantly connected to the internet by using these connections there is a constant threat that others may try to access your computer. There are free firewall programs available for download.
5. Run a Spyware program - Another important program is a spyware search program. When you download something from the internet sometimes other software is included. This software is called "spyware" and it can do many things to harm your computer, including letting someone from another website see what websites you surf in order to send you advertising. Other spyware tries to steal your passwords or other personal information. You should run a spyware checker at least once a month or at any time you are experiencing problems with your connection or computer speed.
6. Run a hi-jacker search program - Another important program to have is a hi-jacker search program. A hi-jacker changes your homepage to a different search engine page and can also block links to common search pages. They are trying to force you to use their homepage. Some of the hi-jacker's homepages are not pages you would like your children to see. You should use a hi-jacker search program at least once a month or whenever you are having a problem with your homepage.
7. Clear your temporary files - Sometimes your PC's virtual memory will become full. When this happens your computer may run slow, give you error messages or freeze during a program. This happens because everything you do on your PC - every picture on every webpage, every document you type, every photo you change - is saved somewhere on your PC, even after you have left that page and closed the document. In order to erase this memory you need to do the following steps:
Open your internet browser. Go to "Tools", "Internet Options".
A box will pop open. It should be open to the "General" tab.
In the center of the box is a section marked "Temporary Internet Files".
Click on "Delete Cookies" and "Delete Files" one at a time. This will delete the temporary files that are clogging the PC's memory.
8. Change your history options - Another way to clean out your computer's memory is to change how many days it saves visited pages. You will find a "history" box in your internet options. It asks how many days you wish to keep pages in history. This is the part of the computer that saves all pages you've visited for as many days as you wish. By saving these pages for a smaller number of days you can clear up more of your PC's memory.
9. Clean out old files - Periodically going through the files in My Documents or other folders you have set up and deleting or archiving them on a CD can also help your computer's memory and performance. Do you really need to keep a saved copy of last semester's English term paper? If not, delete it. You can also go through the programs on your PC from the control panel and delete those you no longer use. Don't delete any of the shared files, though, if it asks, because that can cause more problems.
10. Reboot the PC occasionally - The last thing that is very important to do but seems simple is just to turn your computer off periodically. Your PC needs to be restarted in order to reset itself after new programs or equipment is installed. It also erases the virtual memory from the last session and goes through a self-diagnostic to look for any problems. It sounds like a simple solution, but most problems can be fixed simply by restarting your PC.
Troubleshooting your PC's problems doesn't have to cost a lot of money or require technical expertise. By using just a few software programs and common sense most problems can be stopped and you will find that your PC has better performance and reliability.
Do you want to improve your computer performance? If you want to find out how to increase your computer performance, please read the complete review about Registry Easy where you can also take a FREE PC Scan.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=P_Tab
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
How to Change the Default File Editor in Internet Explorer
Somtimes it may be necessary for a person to want to download certain information from web pages into a file format like Microsoft Excel, Word, Publisher or Note pad. Here is how to do that.
Step1 At the top of your computer screen click on "Tools".
Step2 Next click on "Internet Options".
Step3 Click the Programs tab.
Step4 Under HTML Editor change it to either Excel, Word, Publisher or Note pad
Step1 At the top of your computer screen click on "Tools".
Step2 Next click on "Internet Options".
Step3 Click the Programs tab.
Step4 Under HTML Editor change it to either Excel, Word, Publisher or Note pad
How to Speed Up Your Wireless Connection
One of the pinch points in your home wireless network can be your wireless router. Newer operating systems like Windows Vista are not always fully compatible with routers from even a few years back. The wrong router can slow down your internet experience. Here's how to check.
Step1.
Check your systems. If you're running a Windows computer with XP or Vista, you should check to see if your wireless router is fully compatible.
Step2.
Head to the website for the Internet Connectivity Evaluation Tool (see Resources, below, for a direct link).
Step3.
Run the connectivity test that Microsoft provides. You will have to download a small program for the test.
Step4.
If your router is not fully compatible with your current system, read the test results carefully, and consider upgrading your router. The Microsoft site provides some explanatory material and identifies incompatibilities that can slow down internet connections. There is also a list of routers from Netgear, Linksys, and other companies, that are fully compatible with current operating systems.
Step1.
Check your systems. If you're running a Windows computer with XP or Vista, you should check to see if your wireless router is fully compatible.
Step2.
Head to the website for the Internet Connectivity Evaluation Tool (see Resources, below, for a direct link).
Step3.
Run the connectivity test that Microsoft provides. You will have to download a small program for the test.
Step4.
If your router is not fully compatible with your current system, read the test results carefully, and consider upgrading your router. The Microsoft site provides some explanatory material and identifies incompatibilities that can slow down internet connections. There is also a list of routers from Netgear, Linksys, and other companies, that are fully compatible with current operating systems.
Computer(PC) Troubleshooting
How to fully Maintain Your Computer to Work Great
Step1 Buy a Surge Protector. Surge Protectors are special power strips that absorb any power surges that may seriously damage memory your and other components. You may want to shut your computer down during severe thunderstorms
Step2 Defragment your drive weekly You just have to go to Start, Programs, Accessories, System Tools, then Disk Defragmenter
This speeds up your program.
Step3 Clean out and Delete Temporary Internet Files and cookies if you use the internet often.
You can go to Start, Control Panel, Internet and Delete temporary files and cookie
Step4 Install an antivirus software and Run a full virus scan weekly - (recommended Trend Micro Antivirus)- buy in stores and install or download from their website- www.TrendMicro.com
Step5Clean out all unnecessary files and empty recyle bin.
Step6 Install Window Updates- Go to Start, Control Panel, then either
security and check for updates OR Go to Windows update - do it every two weeks.
Step7 Use damp cloth to clean your monitor and keyboard- don't let dust accumulate on your computer.
Step1 Buy a Surge Protector. Surge Protectors are special power strips that absorb any power surges that may seriously damage memory your and other components. You may want to shut your computer down during severe thunderstorms
Step2 Defragment your drive weekly You just have to go to Start, Programs, Accessories, System Tools, then Disk Defragmenter
This speeds up your program.
Step3 Clean out and Delete Temporary Internet Files and cookies if you use the internet often.
You can go to Start, Control Panel, Internet and Delete temporary files and cookie
Step4 Install an antivirus software and Run a full virus scan weekly - (recommended Trend Micro Antivirus)- buy in stores and install or download from their website- www.TrendMicro.com
Step5Clean out all unnecessary files and empty recyle bin.
Step6 Install Window Updates- Go to Start, Control Panel, then either
security and check for updates OR Go to Windows update - do it every two weeks.
Step7 Use damp cloth to clean your monitor and keyboard- don't let dust accumulate on your computer.
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