Comparison Of Gigabyte Gam55slis4 Vs Gam57slis4

The Gigabyte GA-M55SLI-S4 and the Gigabyte GA-M57SLI-S4 are desktop PC motherboards from Taiwanese computer product manufacturer Gigabyte Technology. Each motherboard is named after its basis on Advanced Micro Devices processor and Nvidia chipset technology. As of August 2011, the motherboards' last revision is rev. 2.0, with the GA-M57SLI-S4 sporting a few advantages over the GA-M55SLI-S4.

Form Factor, Processor, Chipset

The Gigabyte GA-M55SLI-S4 and the Gigabyte GA-M57SLI-S4 use the Advanced Technology eXtended form factor, with a measurement of 30.5 by 23.4 cm, or 12 by 9.2 inches. The central processing unit socket on the M55 is Socket AM2, which semiconductor company AMD introduced in 2006 for certain entries of the company's mid-level Athlon and low-end Sempron processor brands. The M57 motherboard, however, has Socket AM3, which AMD introduced in 2009. Socket AM3 not only is compatible with some CPUs of AMD's flagship Phenom processor brand but is backward compatible with CPUs of Socket AM2 and its immediate successor AM2+.

Chipset

Each Gigabyte GA-M55SLI-S4 and Gigabyte GA-M57SLI-S4 motherboard has the nForce 570-SLI chipset from graphics processing unit manufacturer Nvidia. It includes the Marvell 88E1116 Gigabit Ethernet controller for wired networking. The Ethernet controller is partly named after its ability to provide a peak data transfer speed of one gigabit, or 1,000 megabits, per second. Other integrated peripherals of the Nvidia nForce 570-SLI chipset are an Institute of Electronics and Electrical Engineers 1394, or FireWire, port, and the 8-channel Realtek ALC883 audio driver for the computer's stereo sound.

System Memory, Expansion Ports

The Gigabyte GA-M55SLI-S4 and the Gigabyte GA-M57SLI-S4 motherboard offers four dual inline memory module slots for the PC's system memory. Adhering to second generation Double Data Rate Synchronous Dynamic RAM architecture, the DIMM slots can support up to 16GB. Also included on each motherboard are seven Peripheral Component Interconnect interfaces -- two PCI slots, three PCI Express x1 slots and two PCI-E x16 slots -- for expansion cards such as network cards and video/graphics cards.

Connectors

The Gigabyte GA-M55SLI-S4 and the Gigabyte GA-M57SLI-S4 motherboard have a multitude of connectors for the PC's back panel. This includes a RJ-45 port for Ethernet, two PS/2 ports for the PC's keyboard and mouse, serial and parallel ports, two Sony Philips Digital Interfaces, and six audio jacks. Also included are an ATX power connector and ATX 12-volt connector. For connecting a hard disk drive or optical disc drive, the M55 motherboard has four Serial Advanced Technology Attachment interfaces, while the M57 has six of them.

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Emachines Ms Motherboard Types

There were several MSI manufactured motherboards used by eMachines, for a number of CPU generations.

eMachines is one of several brands owned by Acer computers. It is Acer's budget line of computers for sale in the United States and is their mid-range brand for sale in Europe. The eMachines brand are sold as complete systems, and are made from a variety of components, with motherboards from several manufacturers. One manufacturer used by eMachines is MSI, and their motherboards all have part numbers starting with "MS". There were several generations of MSI motherboards used by eMachines, and they can be grouped by processor generation.

AMD Athlon Motherboards

These motherboards used the Slot A architecture established by AMD for the Athlon CPU shortly after it was introduced; the Athlon used the K7 core and was contemporary with the Intel Pentium III architecture. There were three MSI motherboards using this architecture: the earlier MS-6777, which supported bus speeds of 166 MHz through 266 MHz; the MS-6734, with front side bus speeds ranging from 200 to 333 MHz and the Slot A MSI-7061, which was nearly identical. All three motherboards had integrated nVidia graphics chip sets, and are nearly a decade old as of November 2010.

Intel Pentium IV Motherboards

MSI made a limited number of Pentium IV/Celeron D-compatible motherboards used by eMachines. These used the LGA-775 processor package, and had two very similar models, the MSI-7173 and the MSI-7211. The primary differences between the two motherboards in this generation were the maximum front side bus speed and CPU multipliers, with the first generation supporting 533 MHz and the second generation supporting 800 MHz.

AMD Athlon 64 Motherboards

AMD's follow-on to the Athlon was the Athlon 64 processor. This was a 64-bit processor which was supported by the MS-6741 motherboard for the original release, using Socket 754 (roughly contemporary to the Pentium IVs). This was followed by the MS-7142, which could handle higher voltage CPUs. Many models also had the nearly identical MS-7145

AMD Athlon 64FX Motherboards

AMD's Athlon 64FX architecture includes a mutli-core version of the AMD Athlon 64 series, and includes support for DDR2 RAM. These motherboards use the Socket 939 interface, and motherboards of this type include the MS-7093, the MS-7184, and the MS 7207, which is the current 'high end' MSI motherboard used by eMachines.

Tags: used eMachines, motherboards used, motherboards used eMachines, There were, Athlon 64FX

Crysis Benchmarks For Pentium 4 Vs Pentium D

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Crysis" for the PC was one of the most graphically intensive computer games of its era, containing quality settings that could not be reached even by current-model computers at the time of its release. To see how your computer measures up to "Crysis" demands, typically you would use benchmarks to ascertain the average frame rate that the computer, including those running a Pentium 4 or D processor, could achieve. However, benchmark information for these two processors is scarce.

"Crysis"

"Crysis" was released for the PC in 2007. A first-person shooter, "Crysis" presents you with open-ended game play, giving you multiple ways to defeat your enemy, including the stealthy approach and the head-on, guns-blazing approach. Unique to "Crysis" is the nanosuit, a bodysuit that gives you extra strength, speed and camouflage. "Crysis" takes place in the tropical Ling Shan Islands, and players encounter a variety of settings throughout the game, such as forests, mountains and ice-covered landscapes.

Pentium 4

The Pentium 4, first released by Intel in 2000, is part of the last line of single-core processors released by Intel. At the time of release of "Crysis," the Pentium 4 was still a widely used processor, as dual-core CPU technology was just starting to hit the market. What made the Pentium 4 different from previous Pentium releases was the clock speed it could achieve -- up to 3.8 GHz. The front-side bus, or FSB, speeds the Pentium 4 could reach varied from 400 to 1066 MT/s.

Pentium D

The Pentium D, released in 2005, was released alongside the Pentium 4 and was meant to complement it. While the Pentium D features similar clock and FSB speeds, it was a dual-core chip rather than a single-core chip. At the time of its release, many applications did not support dual-core technology, so the difference between using a Pentium 4 and Pentium D was slim. "Crysis" was released in 2007, and it supports dual-core processors, indicating that Pentium D users enjoy higher frame rates than Pentium 4 users.

"Crysis" Benchmarks

Not many benchmark tests were conducted on "Crysis" using a Pentium 4. However, in 2007, GameSpot performed a benchmark test on a variety of computers, including a 3.0 GHz Pentium 4 running with a GeForce 6800 video card, 1GB of RAM and Windows XP. At "medium" quality and 800x600 pixel resolution, some of the highest settings "Crysis" can achieve with this hardware, the Pentium 4 averaged 21 frames per second, or FPS. No benchmarks for the Pentium D or higher speed Pentium 4 CPUs are available, although estimates are that the FPS of the Pentium D would average anywhere from 10 to 20 percent higher.

Tags: Pentium Pentium, time release, could achieve, Crysis Benchmarks, Crysis released, Crysis released 2007, dual-core technology

Comparison Of P5q Motherboards

The P5Q is a desktop PC motherboard from Taiwanese computer products manufacturer ASUSTeK Computer Incorporated. Since its release in 2007, there have been a little over a dozen iterations of the component. As a result, even though the original P5Q set a template of features and specifications for variants to follow, there are a few differences -- usually determined by enhancements -- between the entries of the motherboard series.

Processor and Chipset

Each PQ5 motherboard has a central processing unit socket called Land Grid Array 775, also known as Socket T. Intel Corp. released it in 2004 for certain entries from its flagship Core, mid-range Pentium and low-end Celeron processor brand -- particularly from the Core 2 Duo, Core 2 Extreme, Core 2 Quad, Pentium Dual-Core, and single- and dual-core Celeron divisions. The CPU is paired with the Intel P45 chipset.

Memory and Expansion Ports

Each ASUS P5Q motherboard has four dual inline memory module slots for the PC's system memory. Most P5Qs use system memory based on the second-generation Double Data Rate Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory standard, or DDR2 SDRAM. A few motherboards, however -- the P5QC and the P5Q3 Deluxe/Wi-Fi-AP @n being prime examples -- use its immediate successor, the DDR3 SDRAM, instead. The number of Peripheral Component Interconnect interfaces -- designed for expansion cards such as graphics processing units and network cards -- is six or seven.

Networking

Each ASUS P5Q motherboard has at least one Ethernet driver. Usually from Realtek Semiconductor Corp., Qualcomm Atheros or Marvell Technology Group, the connection provides up to 1,000 megabits, or one gigabit, per second in data transfer speed. A few variants, however, have more than one. For instance, entries such as the P5Q-E and P5Q Deluxe have two. The P5Q Premium, however, surpasses all the others with four Ethernet jacks.

Form Factor

The P5Q motherboard uses the Advanced Technology eXtended form factor, although the physical dimensions differ from one variant to the other. Most P5Qs, such as the P5Q Pro, P5Q Premium, P5Q-E. P5Q Deluxe and P5Q3 -- measure 12 by 9.6 inches, which is the largest physical dimensions for the motherboard series. On the other side of the spectrum is the P5Q SE, which is the smallest entry, at 12 by 7.6 inches. The original P5Q is in the middle in terms of size, with a measurement of 12 by 8.8 inches.

Tags: ASUS motherboard, Each ASUS, Each ASUS motherboard, Most P5Qs, motherboard series, P5Q-E Deluxe, physical dimensions

Enter The Bios On An Asus

The motherboard is the foundation of your system

Your motherboard is the foundation of your computer. It connects all the other components together, and without it your processor would be unable to process and your RAM unable to store memory. Motherboards also contain the core programming of your computer, known as the Basic Input/Output System (BIOS). You can access these during the boot-up process. In the BIOS, you'll be able to configure devices, boot order, fan speeds, and many other variables. ASUS motherboards include several unique features, as well, ranging from tweaking utilities to a "Turbo Key" that will automatically over-clock your system, giving it extra power at the cost of instability.

Instructions

1. Start your computer. If it's already on, restart it.

2. Wait for your system to post. Posting is when white text appears on a black background.

3. Press the "Delete" key on your keyboard when your system states, "Press Del to enter setup." This will take you to your BIOS.

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Tweak Bios Programs

Modern computers handle the startup process through a program called a "Basic Input/Output System," or "BIOS." The BIOS is loaded prior to your computer's operating system, and is used to handle a large range of system functions and options. When you first turn on your computer, you can press a certain key on your keyboard to access the BIOS menu. Inside the BIOS menu you can make changes to various system functions to tweak your computer for maximum performance.

Instructions

1. Power on your computer. Pay close attention as it boots up. A message should appear at the bottom of the screen that instructs the user to press a certain key to access the BIOS menu. The key used to access the BIOS varies among computers, but the most commonly used keys are "Del," "F2," F10," and "F12."

2. When notified, press the appropriate key to enter the BIOS menu. If your computer continues to boot like normal, you may have missed the window of opportunity to access the BIOS; simply reboot the computer and try again.

3. Use your keyboard to navigate through the BIOS menu. (Most BIOS menus will not recognize input from your mouse.) Use the arrow keys to move between different fields. Generally, press "Enter" to confirm a selection, or "Esc" to cancel a selection.

4. Locate the areas of the BIOS you wish to tweak. The BIOS menu is split into many different tabs, depending on the capabilities of your motherboard. From the BIOS menu you may be able to control which ports are active on your computer, and the speed at which your processor runs natively. You can also set up a boot order if you wish to use a disc or USB drive to load a secondary operating system. The BIOS menu can also be used to secure your computer with a password at boot time. More advanced BIOS menus allow the user to control component temperature ranges and backup options. Check your computer or motherboard user manual for more information specific to your particular BIOS menu.

5. Press "F10" to save your changes and restart the boot process, this time with your settings applied. Your computer will then boot like normal, but including all changes you made.

Tags: BIOS menu, your computer, access BIOS, access BIOS menu, BIOS menus

Emachine Motherboard Specifications

Intel motherboards are often used in for computers produced by eMachines.

The Intel D945GCCR motherboard is commonly used by eMachines in the production of their desktop computers. This motherboard offers support for several popular processors, thermal sense to detect out of range operating temperatures, voltage sense to detect out of range voltage from the power supply, fan sense input to monitor fan activity, fan speed control and hardware monitoring via the SMSC 5127 I/O controller. Overall, the Intel D945GCCR motherboard provides performance that should satisfy most computer users.

Form Factor

The Intel D945GCCR motherboard utilizes the small microATX form factor.

Processor and Chipset

This motherboard is equipped with one LGA775 processor socket that can accommodate Intel Celeron D, Intel Pentium 4, Intel Pentium D and Intel Core 2 Duo processors. The system board is built around the Intel 945GC Express chipset.

Audio

A six-channel audio subsystem is supported on this motherboard through the use of the Realtek ALC883 audio codec.

Memory

The Intel D945GCCR motherboard has two 240-pin DDR2 SDRAM DIMM memory sockets and can support DDR2 400 MHz or 533 MHz memory modules. Two gigabytes of total system memory can be supported on this motherboard.

Ports

This motherboard has eight USB 2.0 ports, one parallel port, four serial ATA interfaces, one parallel ATA IDE interface, PS/2 mouse and keyboard ports, one serial port and one floppy disk interface.

I/O Controller

A legacy I/O controller is integrated into the Intel D945GCCR to provide support for the serial port, the parallel port, the PS/2 ports and floppy disk drive.

Expansion Slots

One PCI Express x1 bus slot, one PCI Express x16 bus slot and two conventional PCI add-in card connector slots are available on the Intel D945GCCR system board.

BIOS

Intel BIOS with support for Plug and Play, SMBIOS and Advanced Configuration and Power Management (ACPI) controls the motherboard.

Video

The D945GCCR mainboard uses the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950 on-board graphics subsystem for video rendering.

Network Connection

One 10/100 megabit per second Ethernet port is integrated into the motherboard.

Tags: Intel D945GCCR, D945GCCR motherboard, Intel D945GCCR motherboard, detect range, Express slot

Connect Two Dell Dimension Computers

Only use a cable that you know to be a crossover cable when connecting two computers.

If you have two Dell Dimension computers that you would like to connect, but no network to connect to, you can connect the computers using a crossover cable. A crossover cable is similar to an Ethernet cable, but it is designed to allow two computers to connect directly, without a router. With the two Dell Dimension computers connected, you can quickly and easily transfer files and folders between the two machines.

Instructions

1. Connect the two computers by plugging one end of the crossover cable into each computer's Ethernet port.

2. Open the "Start" menu of one of the computers, then click "Control Panel."

3. Click "Network and Internet" from within the Control Panel, then click "Network and Sharing."

4. Double-click the icon labeled "Unidentified Network," then click on the information bar at the top of the window that will appear. Clicking on the information bar will bring you to the Network Discovery and File Sharing screen. Enter the computer administrator password if prompted.

5. Select the option labeled "Turn on network discovery and file sharing," then select "No, make the network that I am connected to a private network."

6. Repeat this process on the second Dell Dimension computer. Once this is complete, you can share folders between the computers by right-clicking on any folder and selecting the "Sharing" option. The other computer can be accessed from the "Network" screen, which is accessible by clicking "Computer" from the "Start" menu, then clicking "Network" on the left sidebar.

Tags: crossover cable, Dell Dimension, then click, Control Panel, Dell Dimension computers, Dimension computers

Build The Hottest Gaming Computer

Building a high-end gaming PC can take a little work.

As computer games get more innovative, hardware requirements increase exponentially. A PC purchased two years ago will likely have trouble running the latest in PC games at the highest settings. To get the best computer gaming experience, players need a computer built with that purpose in mind. As hardware prices have come down, building a computer gaming system is more affordable than ever.

Instructions

1. Choose a computer case to house the system. The only thing to pay attention to with computer cases is the form factor. The form factor is the size of the case, and corresponds with the size of the motherboard used. The most popular form factor is ATX mid-tower. This is the size of most motherboards on the market.

2. Find a motherboard of matching form factor with the case chosen earlier. Buy a motherboard that offers plenty of expansion slots for add-on components, and has the correct socket type for the intended CPU make. Mount the motherboard to the case using the included screws and mounting posts. Attach the power cables from the case's power supply to the motherboard.

3. Select a processor that matches the motherboard socket type. Generally, users buy the motherboard and processor in tandem, to ensure the socket type matches. The CPU is one of the key components that determine the capabilities of the gaming system. Buy as high-end of a processor as you can afford. Insert the processor into the CPU socket of the motherboard.

4. Add memory to the system. The amount of RAM is another component that has a direct impact to gaming performance. Since memory is cheap, add as much RAM as money allows. Insert the RAM into the memory slots of the motherboard.

5. Choose a graphics card for the system. The graphics card is the single most important component of the gaming system. Today's games are graphics intensive. Find a graphics card that has excellent graphics rendering capabilities and high graphics memory. The two industry leaders are Nvidia's GeForce and ATI's Radeon. Insert the graphics card into a PCI Express slot on the motherboard.

6. Get a hard drive for the system that offers fast data access and ample storage space. The hard drive plays a secondary role to gaming system performance. The faster a computer can access data from the hard drive, the faster the performance. Select a model that offers speeds of 7,200 rpm with a SATA 3.0 Gb/s interface. Mount the hard drive to the drive bay of the computer case and attach the SATA cable and power supply cable to the drive.

7. Add a sound card to the system. Many users opt to stick with the built-in audio capabilities of the motherboard. Serious gamers should get an add-on sound card. Not only does an add-on sound card provide a superior audio experience, it also frees up the CPU to help reduce the load on the system. Insert the sound card in an available PCI slot on the motherboard.

8. Buy a big LCD monitor. Computer gaming is largely a visual experience. Having a large monitor with quick response time, high contrast ration and full 1080p video enhances that experience. Connect the monitor to the graphics card at the back of the computer case.

9. Mount an optical DVD drive in the drive bay and attach the drive cables. Finally, connect the mouse, keyboard and speakers. These components are less critical to the system, so choosing inexpensive options can save some money. Once attached, the gaming system is complete.

Tags: gaming system, graphics card, form factor, hard drive, sound card

Access Bios On A Toshiba Tecra 8100

You can access BIOS on a Toshiba laptop.

Tecra 8100 is a popular model of laptop computers manufactured by Toshiba. The basic input/output system referred to as BIOS is a program built into the laptop motherboard. The BIOS program starts at the beginning of the laptop booting sequence and initiates all hardware. Use the BIOS menu to configure many hardware components, such as CPU, memory or the DVD drive.

Instructions

1. Click "Start" in Windows.

2. Select the option "Restart" in the start menu to restart your Toshiba Tecra 8100 laptop.

3. Press and hold the "Esc" key when the laptop starts to boot up.

4. Release the "Esc" key when the laptop beeps and the message "Check System" appears on the screen.

5. Press the "F1" key to access the BIOS on your Toshiba Tecra laptop.

6. Use the key "F10" to exit BIOS after making necessary changes.

Tags: Tecra 8100, Toshiba Tecra, your Toshiba Tecra, BIOS program, Toshiba Tecra 8100, when laptop, your Toshiba

Recycle Your Laptop For Cash

Recycle your laptop for cash instead of throwing it away.

Recycle your laptop for cash instead of throwing it away or recycling it for free. States such as Oregon have environmental laws in place that make it illegal to throw away your laptop. If your laptop is in high demand, you can make a nice profit. Some companies will also buy older laptops and use them for raw materials. Before selling your laptop, set a price for it based on the laptop's market value using websites such as Used Price and Gadget Value.

Instructions

1. Erase your personal and confidential data from the laptop. Deleting data manually does not ensure that all of your personal data disappears. Use hard drive cleaning software or completely reinstall your operating system to guarantee that all data is erased. Insert your original installation CD into your laptop to reinstall your operating system, and keep your product key at hand.

2. Contact a company that sells refurbished laptops, such as Cash For Laptops, Cash Your Laptop or Jay Brokers. These companies provide you with a quote based on the fair market price of your laptop. Once you agree upon a payment price with a company, ship your laptop to them. Ask if the company provides shipping materials and covers the shipping cost. Once the company receives your laptop, they will send your cash.

3. Advertise your laptop with fliers that indicate it is for sale. Include a picture of the laptop along with other details, such as the operating system, installed software, RAM, cosmetic condition, and asking price. State whether or not the price listed is negotiable, and place your name and contact information on the fliers. Post your fliers in places where students congregate, like college campuses and libraries.

4. Recycle your laptop by selling it through websites such as eBay, Craigslist or the online classifieds of your local newspaper. Do not give the individual your laptop until you have received the full cash payment amount.

Tags: your laptop, your laptop, operating system, your laptop, cash instead, cash instead throwing

Run A Bios Update

BIOS updates allow your computer's hardware to communicate correctly with your operating system after upgrades to your hardware, drivers or operating system. BIOS updates are typically released near Windows operating system release dates and approximately every 1 1/2 to 2 years. Updating or flashing the BIOS is a quick and automated process once the file is downloaded. BIOS updates can be run from a floppy disk, flash drive, SD card or desktop application.

Instructions

Run a BIOS Update

1. Restart your computer and press either "F2," "Esc," or "Del" to access your computer's BIOS. The key will depend on your computer's manufacturer and will be listed at the bottom of the boot loader screen. Note the BIOS manufacturer and version number at the top of the BIOS settings screen. Press "Esc" to exit and restart your computer.

2. Locate your BIOS update. Visit your computer manufacturer's website, BIOS manufacturer's website or the link in the Resources section. For the computer's manufacturer, you will need your make and model or serial number to locate the appropriate update. The link in the Resources section lists almost every possible manufacturer with corresponding BIOS updates.

3. Download the update that works best for you. You can choose to download updates that install via floppy disks, USB flash drives, SD cards or as a desktop executable.

4. Copy the BIOS update to your removable media if you didn't download it directly to the media. If there are any instructions provided with the downloaded update, read them carefully before updating your BIOS. Some BIOS updates require you to unzip files or only place a portion of the download update on the removable media.

5. Restart your computer with your removable media inserted. Press "F12" while the computer starts to choose which media to boot from. The media will depend on what you chose in Step 3. The update will run automatically at this point and will restart your computer when complete.

If you have a desktop application, double-click the file and let the update run.

Tags: your computer, BIOS updates, computer manufacturer, operating system, removable media, your removable media, BIOS manufacturer

Overclock An Intel Core 2 Duo Processor E4600

Increase the Intel Core 2 Duo E4600's performance with overclocking.

Intel Core 2 Duo E4600s are dual-core processors installed in desktop PCs. CPUs (Central Processing Units) are a driving force behind computer performance. A faster CPU means a faster computer. Processors like the Intel Core 2 Duo E4600 have default speed limits installed by the factory, but can often be overclocked to push them to perform past the default speeds. Settings in the PC connected to the processor are changed to overclock the CPU. The front bus speed and the front bus frequency multiplier are changed.

Instructions

1. Boot the PC holding the Intel Core 2 Duo E4600. Press the correct key to enter the boot menu, commonly "F2" or "F11." Enter the "BIOS Features" portion of the menu.

2. Press "External Bus" and move the cursor to the option listed by "Front Bus." Increase the listed value. This adds to the speed of the Intel Core 2 Duo E4600's front bus. Exit to the "BIOS Features" window.

3. Press "CPU Core" and move the cursor to the option listed by "Multiplier." Increase the listed value. This increases the Intel Core 2 Duo E4600's front bus frequency. Exit to the main menu.

4. Select "Exit and Save" from the options. Once the PC is booted, the Intel Core 2 Duo E4600 is overclocked.

Tags: Intel Core, Core E4600, Intel Core E4600, BIOS Features, Core E4600 front

Build A Media Pc With Linux

Building the perfect home theater personal computer (HTPC) is a project that combines a love of high-definition video with all the geekiness of computer building. Add Linux into the mix, and your HTPC project will be the envy of every open source-loving, high-tech and high-definition geek you know. To do this, get all the right parts for the best possible build, install a Linux distribution, and get a Linux-based TV application to feed TV straight from your computer and into your living room.

Instructions

Buying Parts

1. Buy a stylish HTPC case with a power supply included. Good places to shop for one online include Xoxide, Newegg, and FrozenCPU. Choose an HTPC case compatible with a mini ATX (mATX) motherboard so that your computer will accommodate as much hardware as you need. Check that the case comes with a remote control, or at least a receiver for one.

2. Buy an mATX motherboard compatible with the latest and greatest processor line. Remember, an Intel processor requires an Intel-based motherboard, and an American Micro Devices (AMD) processor requires an AMD-based motherboard. Purchase a compatible processor at the highest clock rate you can afford. Buy the maximum memory the motherboard can take, in a pair, such as two 2 gigabyte (GB) sticks for a motherboard that takes up to 4 GB of memory.

3. Buy the largest hard drive you can afford; at least 500 GB is good for an HTPC computer that will act as a digital video recorder (DVR). Also get a burnable Blu-Ray drive to play Blu-Ray movies and burn recorded shows.

4. Buy a TV tuner for the computer. Two kinds exist--internal TV tuner cards and Universal Serial Bus (USB) "stick" tuners. Stick tuners are external and plug in much like a flash drive, creating a new coaxial port on your computer. Internal cards do not require an adapter to hang out the back or front of your computer, but they do take up one PCI slot. Since most mATX motherboards only have one or two Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) slots, go with the USB stick TV tuner.

5. Buy a 512 megabyte (MB) or better graphics card. Get a PCI or PCI express graphics card. Graphics cards are not absolutely necessary on most modern motherboards, since the motherboards often have onboard graphics. However, onboard graphics offer basic performance far below what a 512 MB card offers. Check that the card has an HDMI port, which is necessary for watching high-definition video.

Set Up Your HTPC

6. Build the computer. Remember to wear an antistatic wrist strap and work on a clean, flat surface. Start with the motherboard, then the processor and its cooling unit, the memory sticks, your graphics card and finally the drives. Close up the case and plug it into the wall. Connect your computer to your TV using an HDMI cable.

7. Burn a Linux OS image file to a writable digital video disc (DVD-R). To get an image file, go to a Linux distribution's website and download its installation file. User-friendly Linux distributions include Ubuntu, Kubuntu and openSUSE. Burn the file ending in .ISO onto a disc as an image. Insert the disc into your computer and boot it up. Follow the prompts to install Linux.

8. Log on to your home's WiFi network or plug the computer into a hub or router to get onto the Internet. Download a Linux-compatible, TV-watching application such as MythTV, SageTV or Boxee. Before installing the software, plug a cable to your TV signal into your computer's TV tuner. Install the software and follow its steps to set up channels and recording.

Tags: your computer, into your, graphics card, Check that, compatible with

Overclock The Intel Core 2 Duo

Intel's microprocessors have between one and four cores.

The Intel Core 2 Duo microprocessor was released in 2006 by Intel in a bid to slow clocking speeds and make more efficient use of power. It was also a successful bid to reunite CPU and laptop processor lines, which had been split apart due to logistics. The Core 2 Duo can overclock at up to around 3 Gigahertz, with a recommended speed of around 1 GHz.

Instructions

1. Enter the computer BIOS by restarting the computer and pressing the access key it lists -- you will see a message such as "enter BIOS" or "press [something] to enter BIOS." If a picture comes up during the first few seconds of startup, press "Esc" to view the BIOS access key.

2. Highlight the field labeled "Front Side Bus (FSB)" and increase it within the limits of your processor. Keep in mind that the amount added should be multiplied by the "FSB Multiplier" field number, then added to the running total.

3. Increase the multiplier by changing the number in the "FSB Multiplier" field. The Multiplier field increases the FSB by multiplying that value by the multiplier number. Increasing both the FSB and Multiplier results in a more stable system.

4. Increase the vCore (Core Voltage) slightly -- by 10% or less -- to provide extra power to the processor, providing stability. This will also increase the heat output of the CPU.

Tags: Multiplier field, enter BIOS, Intel Core

Ecs Mcp61smam V 1 0a Oem Motherboard Specs

The ECS MCP61SM-AM motherboard supports AMD processors thanks to its AM2 socket. Featuring an Nvidia GeForce 6100S chipset, it includes on-board graphics functionality as well as a great deal of connectivity, thanks to its multiple slots, drive connectors and memory expansion slots. Its industry standard MicroATX form factor allows it to fit in just about any computer case, including relatively small ones for applications such as a home theater.

CPU and Chipset

The MCP61's AM2 socket allows it to work with a range of AMD processors. Supported chips include the Athlon 64 FX on the high end to Sempron chips on the low end, with transfer rates between 400 and 2000 mega-transfers per second. Graphics are handled by its on-board Nvidia GeForce 6100 GS graphics accelerator, which processes both 2D and 3D images and can share up to 256 MB of the system's memory

Memory Support

ECS builds the MCP61SM-AM V.1.0A with four memory slots. Each slot accepts 240-pin DIMM modules containing DDR2 memory chips. Its clock supports memory with speeds of 400, 533, 667 or 800 MHz.

Drive Connectors

The motherboard features two internal Serial ATA connectors for hard disk drives or optical drives. In addition, it features two legacy Parallel ATA connectors that accept Ultra DMA133/100/66 ribbon connections. The legacy connections support hard drives, optical drives or even floppy disk connections.

Expansion Slots

The ECS MCP61SM-AM V.1.0A features four internal memory slots. The fastest is a single PCI Express x16 slot that can also connect at PCI Express x8 speed. It also has a single PCI Express x1 slot and two standard PCI slots for expansion cards.

Back Panel Ports

ECS mixes current and legacy technology effectively on the back panel of the MCP61SM-AM V.1.0A motherboard. Legacy ports include dual PS/2 ports for a keyboard and mouse and a COM1 serial port. It also features four USB 2.0 ports, each supporting connections as fast as 480 megabits per second. Its back panel is rounded out with a VGA video port, RJ-45 Ethernet port for its gigabit Ethernet controller and a set of audio input and output jacks for its eight-channel surround sound audio system.

Tags: back panel, drives optical, drives optical drives, Express slot, features four, MCP61SM-AM motherboard, memory slots

Overclock A Dell Xps 720

Overclocking means operating PC components at speeds over what the manufacturer recommends. Overclocking recklessly can lead to system instability and could even permanently damage PC components. However, overclocking carefully can increase system performance without posing a significant risk to the system.

Overclocking involves deciding what components you want to tweak for the best performance. Instead of maxing out one component, it is often better to adjust multiple components to your desired level. The CPU multiplier is one component that can easily be adjusted in the Dell BIOS.

Instructions

1. Restart the computer. Press F2 repeatedly during the initial boot process.

2. Press the "Down Arrow" key to highlight Performance, then press "Enter" (while in the BIOS). Under performance options, press the "Down Arrow" key to highlight Advanced, then press "Enter."

3. Press the "Down Arrow" key to highlight the field next to "Performance Application Support," (under the overclocking option). Press the "Down Arrow" key to change the field to "On." Press the "Right Arrow" key to highlight the field next to "Processor Clock Speed." Select the desired processor speed using the "Down Arrow" Key.

4. Press the "Enter" key to accept the changes.

5. Press the "Esc" key. Highlight "Save/Exit" using the Right Arrow, and press "Enter" to restart the system.

Tags: Down Arrow, Arrow highlight, Down Arrow highlight, press Enter, Arrow highlight field, field next, highlight field

Computer Gold Recycling

Computer Gold Recycling

We all know how important recycling is these days, and while most of us understand the need to recycle our plastic, glass and paper, not everyone is aware about the need to recycle our metals as well. Computers are a prime example of a widely used household product that can and should be recycled because of the minerals it contains, such as lead and gold. This is especially true for older computers.

Considerations

Gold is one of the most sought-after metals found in a computer's printed wiring boards, in addition to silver and copper. However, there are also relatively hazardous metals such as lead, mercury and cadmium, and this complicates the process. A key hindrance to computer gold recycling is the dollar value. The process of retrieving and recycling these metals is a complex business, and until recently cost about $200 per computer, whereas the value of the recycled materials amounts to about $30.

Components

To recycle the gold on your computer, you must dismantle and take it apart to access its recyclable, metal components such as the circuit boards and chips. Take these metal components to a recycling plant, which will typically pay you for them.

Remember that yours is not the only computer that needs to be recycled. There are many people who have unwanted, discarded computers that they do not know recycle, let alone get rid of.

Amounts

There is only a very small amount of gold in your computer. In fact, it takes 80 computers to yield a single gram of gold. For this reason, the process of computer gold recycling is cost-prohibitive for an individual. It is also not worth the effort of recycling the gold from a single personal computer.

Benefits

The safe retrieval of gold and other valuable metals makes computer gold recycling a worthy pursuit from an environmental point of view. The mining of gold has been described as one of the most polluting of activities in the world, and for this reason many environmentalists will not wear gold wedding bands or other gold ornaments. They will, however, wear those made of recycled gold, even if they have to pay a premium for it. The most significant benefit, however, remains the prevention of huge numbers of computers being dumped in landfill ever year.

Innovations

Recovering gold from computers has, until recently, not been economically viable, but new technologies have changed this situation. The gold itself is in the form of gold plating, another factor that makes its removal complicated. While not all recyclers have the advanced technology to deal with this, more are getting into the business. Recycled gold now constitutes 25 percent of world supply of this metal.

Tags: computer gold, gold recycling, Computer Gold, computer gold recycling, gold from

Remove The Front Panel Of A Compaq Presario 5430 Us

The case housing the internal components of your Compaq Presario 5430 US consists of several panels, which are removable to gain access to the computer's upgradable parts. Removing the front panel gives you the ability to slide the hard drive or optical drive out of the Presario's case if you need to install new components. The front panel is locked in place by plastic tabs and the side panel, both of which need to be removed in the correct order. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Shut down the operating system on your Compaq Presario 5430 US computer. Disconnect the black power cable attached to the port on the back of the Presario. Remove the remaining cables for your keyboard, monitor, mouse and printer.

2. Set the Presario's case on a flat work surface with the right-hand side access panel facing toward you. Feel along the left side of the access panel to locate the two Phillips screws locking the panel in place.

3. Loosen and remove both of the Phillips screws with a Phillips screwdriver. Grab the raised edge at the left side of the access panel, and slide the panel away from the computer case.

4. Set the panel aside and turn the computer case so the front panel is facing you. Push in on the plastic tabs located on both the left and right sides of the front panel.

5. Grip the top of the front panel and pull the panel off the computer case.

Tags: front panel, access panel, Compaq Presario, Compaq Presario 5430, computer case

Install A Wireless Modem On A Laptop Computer

A wireless modem provides higher flexibility and mobility, allowing you to access the Internet from a laptop computer anywhere in your home or office. A wireless modem can be installed on a laptop in two phases: connecting the modem and configuring the wireless connection. Your cell phone can also be used as a wireless modem. Here's how you can install wireless serivce.

Instructions

Connecting a broadband wireless modem

1. Make sure you have all equipment necessary for installing the wireless modem and setting up the broadband wireless internet connection on your laptop. The package should include the Wireless modem (or wireless adapter), installation CD ROM with a manual, Ethernet Cable (or USB cable in case of a wireless USB modem), a wireless antenna (equipped with wireless standards such as 802.11a, 802.11b, or 802.11g) and a power adapter. Call the vendor (or the manufacturer) if any of the above are missing.

2. Read the manual to understand each of the devices in the package. For example, a wireless antenna is used to connect the wireless broadband packets; ethernet cable is used to connect the desktop computer with the modem.

3. Attach your wireless antenna to the modem.

4. Hook up an Ethernet Cable from your laptop to a LAN/Ethernet Port in the modem. Alternatively, If you have a wireless USB modem, which is recommended for laptops, connect the USB cable to the USB port of the laptop.

5. Ensure proper connectivity of the devices before you begin setup of the wireless modem. Connect the power adapter to the power connector of the modem, plug in and switch it on.

Setting up the Wireless Modem

6. Open your Web browser and enter the URL of the modem's administrative site listed in the user's manual. If you cannot locate it, contact the modem manufacturer's customer service.

7. Login to the admin section by entering the username and password provided in the user manual. Again, if you cannot locate these, call the modem manufacturer's customer service. Usually, the default username and password is "admin." You will now be logged in.

8. Select the Internet connection type. There are four types of internet connections - "Dynamic IP Address," "Static IP Address," "PPPoE/PPPoA" and "Bridge Mode." Call your Internet service provider (ISP) to inquire about what type of setting would be best suited for their wireless service.

9. Choose "Dynamic IP Address" for getting an IP address automatically from the ISP's server. For every wireless internet connection, you are given an IP address. In some cases the IP address is dynamic (changes each time you connect to the internet), and in others it is static (the IP address is retained even after you disconnect and reconnect to the internet). If the address is dynamic, you will have to choose this setting so that the modem automatically takes the IP from the ISP's (Internet Service Provider's) server whenever a new wireless connection is established. Enter your modem's MAC Address (usually found at the back of the modem) and other details. Refer to the user manual or call the modem manufacturer's customer service to get these details.

10. Select "Static IP Address" if you are provided with a static IP. You need to fill in the VPI, VCI, IP Address, Subnet Mask, ISP Gateway Address, Server Address, Primary DNS Address, Secondary DSN Address and connection type. These details can be obtained from your ISP.

11. Opt for "PPPoE/PPPoA" if your ISP uses this type of connection. DSL users may use this connection. Enter the details of User name, Password and other details. These will be provided by your ISP.

12. Select the "Bridge Mode" if your ISP uses this connection type. Enter the relevant details provided by your ISP.

13. Finish the process by clicking on the "Finish" icon. Your modem should now be set up.

14. Enter any URL Address in Internet Explorer to check if the connection is running.

Using a Cell Phone as a Wireless Modem for Dial Up Connection

15. If your cell phone provider offers wireless serivce, your cell phone (with a built-in wireless modem) can access a dial up internet connection. Ensure that your phone has a built-in modem and that it's activated. Call your cell phone service provider's customer service for details on activate your modem's cell phone.

16. You'll need a specialized USB cable to connect the cell phone with your laptop, available directly from your service provider or at stores like Radioshack. The cable is part of a wireless installation kit that also includes an installation CD. Connect the cell phone with your laptop using the special USB cable. Once connected, your laptop should detect the new hardware device.

17.Depending on your operating system, the laptop may automatically install all drivers necessary for setting up the wireless modem or it may prompt you to install the drivers manually. If prompted, insert the installation CD and follow instructions given on the screen. After all drivers are installed, the operating system will confirm that your new hardware is ready to use.

18. Install the dialer software included in the installation CD. Insert your username, password and dial up number in the dialer. These are provided by the service provider. You are now set to use your cell phone as a wireless modem.

Tags: wireless modem, cell phone, your laptop, customer service, service provider, your cell phone

Access Phoenix Technologies Bios

Access Phoenix Technologies BIOS

The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) supplier of a computer can be different for each manufacturer. In fact, some computer manufacturers have used or are using different BIOS suppliers; it depends on the model of computer. Only those who have a good understanding of computer terminology should enter the BIOS. The Phoenix BIOS is one of the oldest suppliers in the computer industry, and they have stayed relatively consistent in the way you enter their BIOS, until recently.

Instructions

1. Turn on your computer. If your computer is currently on, then reboot it.

2. Press the "Del" key repeatedly when you see the Phoenix information. Some computers may have a splash screen that will prevent you from seeing the POST (Power-On Self-Test) information. If this splash screen appears then press the "Esc" key to get rid of it.

3. Navigate through the BIOS as per the instructions at the bottom of the BIOS screen. If you are not sure of the changes you have made, do not save the information when you exit the BIOS.

Tags: Access Phoenix, Access Phoenix Technologies, Phoenix Technologies, splash screen, your computer

Does The Dell Inspiron 530 Have Pcie

The Dell Inspiron 530, introduced in 2006, was the first Dell desktop computer to in the Inspiron line. It was available with either an Intel Pentium Dual-Core processor or an Intel Core 2 Duo processor. The computer's motherboard, produced by Foxconn, offers expansion capabilities in the form of two PCI slots, one PCI-E x1 slot and one PCI-E x16 slot.

PCI-E Overview

PCI-E stands for Peripheral Component Interconnect Express and is currently the most popular type of expansion cards for desktop computers. PCI-E replaces the older PCI and AGP slots, even though both PCI and AGP slots are still common. PCI-E slots come in bus sizes of x1, which is the smallest slot, x4, x8 and x16, which is the largest slot. When installing PCI-E cards, you can always install a smaller card in a larger socket. For example, it's perfectly acceptable to install a x8 card in a x16 socket. The most current version of the PCI-E architecture is version 3.0, which replaces the older 2.1, 2.0, 1.1 and 1.0 versions.

Inspiron 530 Motherboard

The Dell Inspiron 530 shipped with either the Foxconn G33M02 or the G33M02 motherboard. The difference between the board has to do only with the CPU sockets. Both boards feature four expansion slots. Two of the slots are standard PCI slots, referred to as "Slot3" and "Slot4." Slot1 is a PCI Express x16 slot and Slot2 is a PCI-Express x1 slot. As shipped, the Inspiron 530's x1 PCI-Express slot is empty. The x16 slot contains an ATI Radeon HD3650 graphics card. This configuration can vary if the buyer opted for upgrades to the system configuration.

Remove PCI-E Card

You can easily remove PCI-Express cards from your Inspiron 530 computer to replace a damaged card or to upgrade a card. First, open the computer case by removing the two Phillips screws on the rear edge of the side cover. Ensure you are grounded by wearing an anti-static wrist strap connected to the computer chassis. Remove the card retention bracket screw and remove the bracket. If your card has cables connecting it to the motherboard, disconnect them. Rotate the locking lever away from the card to unlock it. Grasp the card by both top corners and pull it straight up out of the slot.

Install PCI-E Card

To install a card in your Inspiron 530, open the computer by removing the side cover. Remove the screw holding the card retention bracket and remove the bracket. Ensure the slot locking lever is in the open position. Align the card with the slot, ensuring the notches in the card correspond with the tabs in the slot, and press the card firmly into the slot. When fully seated, the locking tab should automatically engage. Connect any cables to the motherboard as per documentation included with the card. Replace the retention bracket and install any included drivers and software.

Tags: Dell Inspiron, retention bracket, card retention, card retention bracket, install card, locking lever, open computer

Reset The Cmos On An Hp Pavilion M370n

Your computer's CMOS (Complimentary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) is a small, battery-powered chip built into the motherboard. It stores basic data that is instrumental to your computer's operation, such as your computer's internal clock settings and data that allows your hardware to communicate with the operating system. Resetting the CMOS means removing and replacing the coin-cell CMOS battery; this requires partially dismantling the computer.

Instructions

1. Shut down your computer. Unplug the power cable from its socket on the computer's back panel. Disconnect any external devices from the computer. Rotate the computer so the back panel is facing you. Place the computer horizontally on its left side.

2. Remove the two Phillips-head thumb screws fastening the right-side access panel to the computer. Remove the side access panel from the computer to reveal the motherboard. Touch an unpainted metal surface to discharge static electricity from your body before working inside your computer. This prevents electrical damage to your computer's motherboard.

3. Locate the CMOS battery socket near the lower-left corner of the motherboard. The CMOS battery resembles a large watch battery. Lift the battery out of its socket and throw it away.

4. Place the new CMOS battery inside the empty socket with the "+" symbol facing upward. Replace the side access panel and its retaining thumb screws.

5. Place the computer vertically and reconnect the power cable and external devices.

Tags: CMOS battery, your computer, access panel, back panel, battery socket

Tell The Difference In Agp And Pci

PCI slots are usually cream color whereas AGP is usually maroon colored.

The PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) slot was created in 1990 by Intel as a replacement for the ISA (Industry Standard Architecture) and VESA (VL Local Bus, sometimes called VLB). The system was officially used for the first time in 1994 and as of October, 2010 is still in use in many computers. AGP (Advanced Graphics Port) was also created by Intel in 1997. It was intended to address the problems of bottlenecks in the PCI bus and was designed specifically for graphics cards. The system has several versions, 1x, 2x, 4x and 8x, though the 4x/8x slot is not backward compatible with 1x and 2x AGP since it uses a different level of voltage.

Instructions

1. Look at your motherboard and identify where the expansion slots are. They are long, narrow slots and they will be along one edge of the motherboard. If your motherboard is already installed inside the computer, the slots will be facing the back of the computer.

2. Examine the placement of the slots on your motherboard. The AGP slot will be slightly off center from the PCI slots. There will also likely be more than one PCI slot while there will likely be only one AGP slot.

3. Examine the color of the slots. PCI slots are typically cream color while the AGP slot is typically a darker, maroon color.

Tags: your motherboard, cream color

Overclock A Dell Dimension 3100 Pentium 4

Dell released the Dimension 3100 in late 2005 and marketed it as a high-end system at a budget price. With its Pentium 4 630 processor, 512MB of RAM and a 160 GB hard drive, the Dimension 3100 performs relatively well with most business and productivity applications. However, the older architecture in the 3 GHz Pentium 4 630, along with low-end integrated graphics and sound, makes the 3100 lag a bit in some high-end 3D games. Nevertheless, the Dimension 3100 does support slight clock speed and voltage increases. By tweaking these values with a third-party application, you can improve the performance of a Dimension 3100 slightly.

Instructions

1. Shut down your Dimension 3100 and restart it. As soon as you see the Dell logo screen, press the "F2" key immediately. The BIOS setup menu screen appears. Enter your BIOS password if prompted.

2. Press the right-arrow key to scroll to the "Performance" menu option and press the "Enter" key. Press the down-arrow key to scroll to the "Hyperthreading" value and press "Enter."

3. Ensure that the "Hyperthreading" value is set to "Enabled." If disabled, press the "+" key to change it to "Enabled." Press the "Esc" key to return to the main menu.

4. Navigate to the ExtremeOverclocking.com website and download the ClockGen application. Save the file to a folder on your computer.

5. Right-click the "Start" button and click "Open Windows Explorer." Browse to the file you downloaded from the ExtremeOverclocking.com website and double-click it. Follow the prompts to install the ClockGen utility on your computer. Restart the 3100 if prompted to do so.

6. Launch ClockGen on your computer. Click the "Options" button. Click the "PLL Setup" button. In the Clock Generator Setup drop-down list, select "ICS 950405" and click "Read Clocks." A new window appears and displays the clock speed settings for your Dimension 3100 computer.

7. Click the top right-arrow button under the clock icons once. Click the lower right-arrow button once. Click the "Apply Selection" button. This increases the clock speed, voltage and bus speed of the memory in the 3100's CPU just slightly.

8. Use the computer as you normally would for a few minutes. If the computer does not crash or freeze, the overclock was successful.

9. Open the ClockGen utility again and attempt to increase the clock speed and voltage in one-click increments. Test the computer to ensure that each overclock attempt is successful.

10. Click "Options" and enable the "Apply Current Settings at Startup" after you finish overclocking your Dimension 3100. The ClockGen applies the overclocking settings each time you start your Dimension 3100 computer.

Tags: Dimension 3100, your Dimension 3100, clock speed, your Dimension, clock speed voltage, speed voltage

Build A Microatx Pc

It all starts with the motherboard.

Building a computer from a multitude of parts is a bit like child birth. Once completed, the system will be unique and you will be glowing with accomplishment. Yet creating a system requires some difficult planning as you mix and match compatible parts under your budget. Once you have all the parts, assembling the PC is not difficult. MicroATX PCs are smaller and mainly used for entertainment systems or to provide portability.

Instructions

1. Collect all the parts. Do not unpackage them until they are needed. Set up a workplace, and start with the microATX PC chassis. Unscrew the back. Connect a static discharge strap to your wrist and to the chassis to avoid discharges that can damage components.

2. Open the processor package and place the motherboard on the work area. Align the processor pins to the socket on the motherboard and then lower it gently into the socket. Lower the lever to snap the CPU into place. The CPU is fragile so use the utmost care.

3. Add thermal compound to the back of the CPU. Spread the compound evenly over the back to ensure the heat is transferred effectively. Remove the CPU fan from its packaging and place it on top of the CPU. Mount the fan by connecting the snap cables, or metal clipping to the mounting brackets on the motherboard.

4. Connect the CPU fan power cable to the motherboard. The CPU fan uses a three- to four-pin connecting cable. The slot is found on the motherboard near the CPU. Remove the memory modules from their packaging.

5. Locate the DIMM or memory slots on the motherboard, usually found in the upper-right corner. Use your finger to press down on the end latches of slots. This will open up the slot to receive the memory module. Align the modules into the slot and gently press down on them. Memory modules have an indentation that you can use to ensure the memory will fit in. This same indentation can be found in the slot. This prevents you from inserting a memory module that is not compatible with the motherboard.

6. Place the motherboard into the microATX chassis so that all the screw holes line up with the screw risers on the chassis. Insert and tighten the screws, but not too tight because it can break the motherboard.

7. Install the power supply. Remove the power supply encasement by removing four to eight screws that are found on the edges of the encasement. Slide or drop the power supply into the encasement and then return the power supply encasement to the microATX chassis. Screw the encasement to the chassis so that the power supply is firmly locked in place.

8. Connect any PCI cards. Video cards are inserted into a PCI-Express slot on the motherboard's left side, close to the input output panel on the top-left corner of the motherboard.

9. Locate the hard drive bay. MicroATX cases sometimes use 3.5-inch hard drives or a 2.5-inch drive. The microATX chassis specifications will usually have the hard drive information noted. Place the hard drive into the drive bay and use four screws to secure the drive. Again, do not screw too tightly or you'll have problems if you need to remove the hard drive.

10. Locate the optical drive bay, where the CD/DVD drive will be inserted. Use four screws to secure the drive in the bay. Connect the thin SATA or broad IDE cable to the motherboard and then the optical drive. Connect the SATA or IDE cable to the motherboard and the hard drive.

11. Connect the 24-pin power connector to the motherboard, or if the motherboard requires a 20-pin connector, just remove the 4-pin extension connector. Connect a power cable to the chassis fan. This is usually a four-pin cable.

12. Connect the front panel data cables to the motherboard. These are the cables that power on the computer and allows you to press a button to force a shutdown. The data cables also include a meter that blinks the front LED when the hard drive is being accessed. The layout is different for every motherboard so you'll need to consult the chassis manual as well as motherboard manual.

13. Close the chassis by sliding back the removable panel and screwing the back of the case. Connect the 12-volt power cable to the back of the power supply. Flip the power switch on the supply.

14. Complete the installation by connecting a keyboard and mouse, attaching a monitor and inserting an operating system disc. Boot to this disc to install Windows. Keep this disc at hand for future needs.

Tags: hard drive, power supply, microATX chassis, cable motherboard, drive Connect, power cable, chassis that

Troubleshoot A Keyboard & Mouse That Stopped Working

Wireless keyboards run on battery power.

Your keyboard and mouse are the primary tools that you use to talk to your computer. When one or both of them stop working, performing even the simplest tasks can be frustrating. Troubleshooting keyboard and mouse problems is not difficult.

Connections

While wireless technology is growing, many people still use keyboards and mice that connect to the computer via a cable or wire. Make sure that both ends of the cable are connected and that the cables are not damaged. Unplug each end of the cables and plug them back in securely.

Batteries

Wireless keyboards and mice need battery power to operate properly. Try replacing the batteries in these devices with fresh ones.

Drivers

Keyboards and mice communicate with your computer's operating system through software known as a device driver. If this driver becomes corrupted or deleted as part of installing new software on your machine or a malware attack, reinstalling them may restore your devices. Find the software that came packaged with your device and reinstall it to see if that fixes the problem.

Tags: battery power, keyboard mouse, keyboards mice, Wireless keyboards, with your

Compatible Processors For A Compaq Presario

The processor is where your computer does all its "thinking"

There are two major brands of processors on the market: Intel and AMD. The Compaq Presario desktop uses a socket AM3 motherboard, which only accepts socket AM3 processors, which are all made by AMD, which has three types of socket AM3 processors designed for different levels of performance. Which of these processor is right for you depends on what you need your computer to do.

AMD Sempron

The Sempron processor is the most affordable AM3-socket processor on the market, and it is also the most basic. If you are using a Presario laptop or Netbook, or if you are using a Presario desktop to do office tasks such as email, word processing, and accessing the Web, the little Sempron has enough power to get the job done. You get 256KB full-speed L2 cache, and some models include an integrated DDR2 memory controller. You could certainly do worse.

AMD Athlon II X2

If you're planning on using your Presario to rip and encode CDs and DVDs, or setting it up as a media center, the Athlon II X2 is a significant step up from the Sempron. This processor is optimized for the most advanced desktop effects Windows 7 is able to throw at it, and in turn, Windows 7 is able to use the AMD PowerNow! 3.0 power management feature, which is built into the processor and ready to go. This is a dual-core processor, but there are tri- and quad-core Athlon IIs available as well. While the Sempron has a sufficient 256KB L2 cache, the Athlon II has an incredible 2MB L2 cache.

AMD Phenom II X2

There's not much you can't do with the Phenom II. From movies to music to video editing to redirecting ballistic missiles, this monster does it all, except for redirecting ballistic missiles. Combine this processor with an HD video card, and you have a home entertainment powerhouse. You might want to upgrade your CPU cooling system, as this processor does a lot of work very quickly, and will cook itself without a fairly advanced cooling system in place. Like the Athlon II, the Phenom comes in dual-core, tri-core, and quad-core models. Unlike the Athlon II, 5- and 6- core models are available as well.

Tags: available well, ballistic missiles, Compaq Presario, cooling system, Presario desktop, redirecting ballistic

Evga 7800gt Specifications

EVGA partner with nVidia to release a line of several graphics cards with chipsets manufactured by nVidia. When you decide upon getting a graphics card, you first must look at the interface to see if it is compatible with your computer. CPU clock speed, the quantity of VRAM, and the front-side ports for monitor attachment, all affect the performance and compatibility of the graphics card and your computer.

Input Ports

The 7800 GT chipset included with EVGA has two ports for DVI cables and one port for S-Video, which supports two monitors and an S-Video TV set. If your monitor has a VGA cable, EVGA includes a DVI-to-VGA adapter to allow your monitor to connect to it without needing to support a DVI interface. This adapter simply converts VGA to analog DVI, allowing for high resolutions of up to 2048x1536 pixels at an 85 Hz frequency.

Interface

EVGA's 7800 GT card requires that your computer have one unoccupied PCI Express x16 slot dedicated for video. This slot looks longer than the other slots on a standard ATX motherboard and has a small plastic lever at the back to fix the card in place. If you do not have such a slot on your computer, you cannot use this graphics card unless you install a motherboard on your computer with PCI Express slots.

GPU Clock Speed

The graphic processing unit in a graphics card acts as a supplementary processing agent which keeps the number crunching out of the computer's main CPU when it comes to graphics. Without this unit, all graphical rendering would have to be done by the computer's CPU which does not have the optimization necessary to perform advanced rendering. A 7800 GT card can do 400 million operations per second (400 MHz).

RAM Quantity and Technology

Your RAM holds much importance when storing graphical polygons in the middle of games or while you design something through a graphical editor, such as a 3-D studio application. The more RAM you have, the more seamlessly your gameplay or graphic editing experience will be. EVGA's 7800 GT card has 512 MB of GDDR3 memory, giving you plenty of breathing room, as most applications as of 2010 demand less memory than this to function well. The term "GDDR3" stands for the kind of technology your memory uses, which primarily can tell you what kind of speed your card has while seeking through the memory and transferring objects.

Microsoft Compatibility

Although you virtually may run a graphics card in any operating system, this card works better on some than others. The EVGA 7800 GT graphics card boasts compatibility with Windows 7. It also supports Windows Vista and 7's "Aero" interface which many Windows users find attractive. The smooth glass effects of Aero make work on a Windows computer more fluid and graphically aesthetic.

Tags: graphics card, your computer, 7800 card, EVGA 7800, EVGA 7800 card

Wire A Usb Front Panel To A Motherboard

A USB front panel is a device that places one or more USB ports at the front of your computer tower. Having USB ports in the front of the PC, as opposed to the back, allows you to easily connect and disconnect frequently used USB peripherals. To wire your USB front panel to your motherboard, you'll need to follow a few instructions. When finished, you'll be able to use your USB front panel with your USB-compatible devices.

Instructions

1. Shut down and unplug your PC to avoid the risk of electrical shock. Open your PC case by unscrewing one of the PC tower's panels.

2. Connect the USB front panel's cable to the panel and carefully slide the panel into place from the inside of your PC, pushing it toward the front. Use your screwdriver to screw the panel into place.

3. Search for the back-side USB card on your system. There should be wires leading from that card to the motherboard. Trace the wires back and you'll find the USB inputs on the motherboard.

4. Connect the cable from your front USB panel to an open USB input on the motherboard. If your front USB panel has multiple ports, the end of your cable will have multiple connectors. Plug each of the connectors into an open USB input.

5. Replace the side panel of your PC case and, using the screwdriver, screw it back into place.

6. Plug your PC in and turn it on. When your operating system loads, you should be able to use your front USB panel.

Tags: front panel, your front, your front panel, into place, able your, able your front, front panel

Does An A7n8x Support An Am2 Chip

Socket A and Socket AM2 boards aren't compatible

The Asus A7N8X was designed for use with AMD's older "Socket A" line of chips. It isn't compatible with newer socket types like the AM2. Attempting to use an AM2 chip with the mainboard could damage the mainboard, the chip, or both.

Specifications

The A7N8X, released in 2002, is designed for use with CPUs in AMD's Athlon XP, Sempron and Duron line. It can support anything in those lines, up to the Athlon XP 3200 --- multi-core processors weren't designed for use with Socket A chips and are not supported by the A7N8X. The A7N8X is also limited to RAM and CPUs with a front side bus ("FSB") clock speed at or below 400 MHz.

AMD Socket Types

Sockets designed around the specifications of AMD are generally "pin grid array," meaning that the CPU has pins that are designed to fit into small holes in the motherboard. This is in contrast to "land grid array" (LGA) chips used by Intel, in which the CPU doesn't have any pins and simply sits in the motherboard's socket.

AM2 History

Socket AM2 was developed in 2006, about four years after the A7N8X mainboard was released. It followed the Socket 939 platform, so called because the CPUs had 939 pins --- around twice as many as the 462 pins in a Socket A CPU, which are the CPUs designed for use in the A7N8X. Because of the wide difference in the number of pins, a Socket AM2 CPU won't even fit in the A7N8X.

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Apple Vs Windows Computers

The argument has been going on for years over which computer system is better, Apple Macintosh or Windows PCs. There is no answer to this. Mac users tend to be fiercely loyal to their computer choice, and Windows users tend to be indifferent to Macs and the debate. The exception came when Microsoft introduced its Vista operating system and it didn't work that well. When Microsoft announced it would discontinue Windows XP, for the first time Windows users started to get that cultish, Mac-like fervor.

History

Apple introduced the Macintosh computer with a legendary advertisement during the Superbowl in 1984. While Microsoft founder Bill Gates got the idea for a graphical user interface (GUI) from seeing the Mac's predecessor, the Lisa, he did not release the first version of Windows until 1985. At the time, Windows was a plug-in interface that worked over the Disk Operating System (DOS) Microsoft had put into PCs.

Early Macs

The first Macs, affectionately known as the Squatting Cyclops, were all-in-one units with a screen, the computer, power supply and diskette slot built-in. Using the GUI, Apple designed its screen to simulate a desktop. It carried the idea with folders being used to store documents. Because of this design, you no longer had to know computer language to type in commands to get the computer to do what you wanted. The Mac also had the first integral use of a mouse, which meant you could almost "reach in" to your computer and manipulate things without typing commands for everything.

Windows

Despite lawsuits that eventually favored Microsoft, Windows is modeled after the Mac. Apple did not create its GUI, however, but rather purchased it from Xerox, then honed it. In Windows, things work a little differently than the Mac, and items and functions are named differently, but these days, they work much the same.

Multitasking

One of the biggest difference in they way the two systems work is that in Windows, any program by default takes up the whole screen. If you have, for example, Microsoft Word and Adobe Photoshop, both open at the same time, you can only see one of them. In order to switch, you have to go to the bottom bar, which then pops up, to switch programs. In the Mac, you can size the program windows any way you like so you can see multiple programs at the same time. To switch between them, simply click on the open page of the one you want.

Attacks

It is well known that most every virus and trojan horse developed only affects Windows-based computers. Despite firewalls and antivirus software, a Windows computer is vulnerable any time you go on the Internet. Macs are far less vulnerable to these attacks for two reasons: the operating system is better at keeping such things out and fewer people have been interested in creating attacks for the Mac.

Keyboard Shortcuts

One place that Windows and Macs have a lot in common is command keys. Command keys, or keyboard shortcuts, allow you to take actions without time-consuming mouse movements. On the Mac, most of these commands are accomplished by holding the Command key (it either says "command" on it or has a picture of an apple or a square squiggle) and another key. For example, to Save a document in any program on the Mac, you use Command-S. Windows does the same in most programs by using Control-S. For longer combinations, you can use the Command key with the Option key on the Mac or the Control and Alt keys together in Windows.

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Motherboard Cpu Socket Types

Your motherboard uses a CPU socket to house the computer's CPU, which performs the heavy number crunching that makes your computer work seamlessly. Many advances occurred in processing that required motherboard manufacturers to constantly change the CPU sockets. To catch up with the changes, some modifications were also made to the socket that completely changes the way it looks and works. As of 2010, most manufacturers produce CPU sockets with a land grid array (LGA) that helps cool down the processor.

Simple Slots

The first types of interchangeable non-embedded CPUs manufactured used a simple slot much like the expansion slots within your motherboard. Preferred for their ease of use, CPU slots dominated the market by the 1990s and went on to herald the development of processing units such as the Pentium III. Slots like these, however, wear out after a certain amount of upgrades because of the friction against the contacts.

ZIF Sockets

Intel decided to abandon the "slot" idea during the development of the Pentium 4 chip and decided to integrate a new method of CPU housing for its newer lines of processors. AMD also adopted this idea rather quickly. Implementing ZIF sockets changed the world of microprocessors, making upgrades as simple as switching the chip and using a lever. A zero insertion force (ZIF) socket does not place any friction against any contacts. When the socket lever gets lifted, the contacts release anything they hold, "lifting" themselves off the CPU pins instead of grinding against them.

LGA Sockets

While the "lifting" strategy for processors became quite a breakthrough over grinding slots, CPU manufacturers started looking into some "colder" techniques for processor housing, especially since CPUs began to produce very abnormal amounts of heat due to the amount of transistors within them. The land grid array (LGA) slot, which encouraged more even heat distribution, came into play. While still made of plastic, the contacts sprang up and neatly bent downwards as a processor's weight started to press down on them. You still have to lift a lever, but the lever does nothing more than lift off a metal cover which is meant to push down on the processor once it's mounted.

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Detect My Sound Card Driver

Sound card drivers interface with the computer's operating system to gain the optimum quality of sound from card-based audio devices. Card manufacturers create these drivers in order to help users get the most out of their products and must constantly update them to match changes in operating systems and hardware configurations. Often, users must detect their sound card drivers with native software to help determine if they have the correct and most recent set of tools for their sound cards.

Instructions

1. Click on the "Start" menu from your computer's desktop.

2. Type "dxdiag" in the Run menu. Windows 7 users can type this directly into the Start menu search field, as it functions the same as the Run menu in previous versions.

3. Allow DirectX to search your system for installed components and drivers.

4. Select the "Sound" tab at the top of the dxdiag screen. If you have more than one sound card or driver system installed, multiple tabs will appear. The driver information appears in the box to the right of the sound device's description.

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Clean Computer Motherboards

Motherboards can get very dusty after extended use.

The inside of a computer can get quite dusty. A lot of dust on your motherboard can cause it to have problems, such as freezing up or not starting up. Fortunately, dust is easy to clean out of the computer. The hardest part of this job is getting to the motherboard.

Instructions

1. Open your computer case. In most cases, there are screws on the back of the case to remove the door or the top of the case. After removing the screws, some cases require a handle be pulled to remove the panel of the case.

2. Disconnect any cables that are in your way. There are many cables and components connected to the motherboard. You may not have to remove any, but removing some that are in your way may help you better clean the board. Some cables pull straight out and others require pushing in the edges first.

3. Blow the dust off of the motherboard using an air duster. It may help to hold the case upside down to try to blow the dust out the side of the computer. Use short sweeping bursts of the can of air.

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Change A Processor

A central processing unit, called a CPU for short, is a small microchip that can be thought of as the brain of a PC. The processor carries out millions of calculations, enabling a computer to run the operating system and processes its users require. As such, upgrading to a faster CPU is a common way to increase overall computing speed, although oftentimes upgrading other components, such as RAM, is a more cost-efficient way to improve performance.

Instructions

1. Open the computer's case with a Phillips screwdriver.

2. Find and remove the CPU fan and heatsink. A large fan should be attached to the motherboard, on top of a metal heatsink. The fan and heatsink will either need to be unscrewed, or a clamping mechanism will need to be opened.

3. Unclamp and remove the old CPU. When the heatsink is removed, the CPU will be visible in a plastic or metal housing. To get the CPU out, pull up on a locking lever to release the CPU, then gently grip it on either side and pull it out.

4. Put in the new CPU. In the open CPU housing, place the new CPU the same way the old one was situated. Push down on the locking lever to clamp the new CPU in tight.

5. Apply a thermal transfer material to the heatsink or processor, so that there is no air between the CPU and heatsink.

6. Reattach the heatsink and fan, and close the case.

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Disassemble The Motherboard

A motherboard's layout can vary depending on its manufacturer.

Every hardware device installed to the computer connects to the system through the motherboard. Hard drives, power supplies, memory modules and adapter cards all connect to the motherboard via cables, which are inserted into the appropriate slots or connectors on the board. Along the motherboard are circuits that allow these components to transfer data back and forth.

To disassemble the motherboard, you must disconnect all of the components -- both internal and external hardware -- linked to the circuit board. Disassembling a motherboard requires a fair amount of computer expertise and at least a working knowledge of the different components installed to a computer.

Instructions

1. Turn off the computer and disconnect the power cable from the power source. Remove the cables connecting the monitor, the keyboard, the mouse and any other peripheral devices. Put on an antistatic wrist strap to prevent damaging the interior components with electrostatic discharge (ESD).

2. Press the "Power" button on the front of the computer to drain the PC of any residual power. Loosen the screws at the rear of the case securing the cover to the computer.

3. Slide the cover off the case. Release the top and bottom tabs located inside the front of the case to remove the front panel.

4. Set the case on its side, and touch the chassis to dispel any static electricity.

5. Remove the 20-pin or 24-pin connector leading from the power supply to the motherboard.

6. Disconnect the data cables connected to the optical and hard disk drives. Remove the data cables from the motherboard.

7. Remove the screws securing the video and adapter cards to the back end of the case. Lift the cards straight up to remove them from their slots. Do not touch the surface of the cards, and do not touch the gold connectors. Grab the cards by their edges.

8. Remove from the motherboard any cables connecting the video card to the computer.

9. Release the tabs securing the memory modules in place. Remove the memory modules in the same manner as the adapter cards.

10. Remove the LED and power cables leading from the front of the case to the motherboard.

11. Loosen the screws mounting the motherboard to the computer case. Confirm no other cables are connected to the motherboard.

12. Lift the motherboard away from the case. Disengage the circuit board from the I/O (Input/Output) panel found on the back of the case.

13. Remove the screws attaching the CPU fan to the heat sink. Lift the fan away from the heat sink.

14. Use a pair of forceps to remove the fan's power supply from the circuit board. Push together the tabs located on either side of the heat sink.

15. Remove the tabs and wiggle the heat sink from side to side to loosen it. Hold down the tab locking the heat sink in place and lift the heat sink away from the motherboard.

16. Release the lever securing the CPU to the motherboard. Remove the processor to finish disassembling the motherboard.

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Attach Sata Cables To The Motherboard

The majority of desktop computers use SATA connections for hard drives and optical drives.

SATA stands for Serial Advanced Technology Attachment, and is the most common method of connecting devices such as hard drives and optical drives to desktop computer motherboards, replacing the previous EIDE standard. The SATA cable uses 8 mm wafer connectors that hold seven conductors. It attaches to the SATA connector on the motherboard. To prevent the cables from accidentally disconnecting, locking cables are available that stay in place using a wire clip.

Instructions

1. Turn off your computer and disconnect the power supply and all peripheral devices. Press the power button to discharge any remaining electricity.

2. Connect an anti-static wrist strap to your non-dominant arm and a metal part on the computer case.

3. Open the computer to access the motherboard. This will vary from model to model, but usually consists of removing a screw or latch on the rear of the computer and sliding off one of the side panels. Consult your computer's documentation for exact directions.

4. Find the available SATA connectors on the motherboard. Most recent motherboards have at least six SATA connectors and maybe more. Look for a flat, red cable connecting to the motherboard. SATA connectors are usually red in color and resemble a flat disk with seven metal tabs along one side. The motherboard's manual will show the exact location of the SATA connectors.

5. Grasp the SATA cable and place its connector onto the SATA connector on the motherboard. Press straight down to connect it. SATA cables are available with straight connections, 90-degree connections and 270-degree connections to make them easier to connect in confined spaces.

6. Connect your SATA device and plug the other end of the cable into its data port. Connect a SATA power cable to the device and close the computer.

Tags: SATA connectors, cables available, connector motherboard, drives optical, drives optical drives, hard drives

Emachines T3062 Specs

AMD provides the processing power for the emachines T3062 PC.

Emachines began selling the model T3062 desktop computer in 2005. Although this model is now discontinued it is still capable of performing most tasks required by casual computer users. The Emachine T3056 is built around an AMD processor. A Nvidia graphics card provides strong graphics performance. A wide variety or port types allow users to easily connect old and new external devices to this computer.

Processor and Chipset

The Emachine T3062 desktop computer is equipped with a 2.2 GHz AMD Athlon XP 3000+ processor utilizing the Quantispeed Architechture and is supported by a 333 MHz front side bus and 512 kilobytes of L2 cache. This PC is built around the Nvidia Nforce 2 chipset.

Memory

The Emachine T3062 ships with 512 megabytes of PC2700 speed DDR RAM. Memory is expandable for up to two gigabytes of total system memory.

Hard Drive

One 160 gigabyte 7200 rpm hard drive is standard with this model.

Optical Drive

A double layer multi-format DVD writer is included with the T3062. This DVD writer is capable of reading CDs at 40X, writing CDs at 32X, reading DVDs at 16X, writing single layer DVDs at 8X and writing double layer DVDs at 4X.

Media Reader

An eight-in-one digital media card reader is standard on this emachine model providing users with multiple options to transfer digital media to the computer. The media reader can read SD cards, SDHC cards, micro SD cards, micro SDHC cards, xD picture cards and compact flash cards.

Video

The Emachine T3062 utilizes the Nvidia Geforce 4 MX video card with 64 megabytes of video memory for graphics rendering.

Sound

Mforce six-channel on-board audio is integrated into the computer.

Network Connectivity

An on-board Intel Pro 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port provides cabled network connectivity.

Modem

The Emachine T3062 is equipped with an integrated 56K ITU V.92 fax modem for dial-up capability.

Ports

Five USB 2.0 ports, one VGA external monitor port, one serial port, one parallel port, two PS/2 ports, one audio in and one audio out port are available on this model.

Operating System

Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition ships installed on the Emachine T3062.

Dimensions

The Emachine T3062 utilizes the tower design and measures 14 inches high, 7 inches wide and 16 inches deep.

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Set The Bios On My Computer

A small battery on the motherboard stores custom BIOS settings

The BIOS is the setup program for personal computers. It is responsible for testing the computer's main components, allowing the operating system to recognize the components that are part of the computer's motherboard, booting your computer's operating system, and provides access to components such as the keyboard individual of the operating system. Accessing the BIOS menu is simple, but the process will vary depending on the type of computer you have.

Instructions

1. Turn your computer on as you normally would.

2. Press a particular key (See "Resources" section below) while your computer is starting up to bring the BIOS menu.

3. Enter your username and password when prompted. If you never set a password, but are still prompted, consult your product's documentation. If you don't find a default username and password, you will need to reset the BIOS.

Resetting the BIOS

4. Shut down your computer.

5. Open your computer's case so that you can access the motherboard. Some cases can be unscrewed by hand, but others require a screwdriver.

6. Look for a battery that is located on the motherboard. It will look like a small watch battery; this is the CMOS battery, which stores custom settings for the BIOS.

7. Remove the battery if it is able to removed. If it is soldered to the motherboard, there should be a jumper near the battery that will reset the BIOS. If it is not labeled as the CMOS battery jumper, consult your motherboard's documentation to locate the right jumper. Wait several seconds and replace the battery, or restore the jumper. Now you will be able to access the BIOS menu without a password.

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Repair A Humminbird Fish Finder

Humminbird fish finders are used most often on fishing boats.

Humminbird fish finders locate underwater obstacles, fish, and identify the water bottom surface. The devices use a display screen and a transducer. The transducer attaches to the bottom of the boat and bounces sonar waves under the boat. The transducer receives the waves as they bounce back and transfers the information to the display screen. If you have a Humminbird that is malfunctioning, use Humminbird's troubleshooting tips to repair it and get it back up and running.

Instructions

1. Turn the Humminbird unit on. If the fish finder does not power up, check the cable connections. Inspect the cable for frays or tears. If present, remove the cable by unplugging the cable from the display screen and disconnecting the cable from the power source. Push the cable into the connections to ensure the fits are snug and power the unit on.

2. Check that the fuse for the device is in working order. Check the boat's fuse box and look for any blown fuses. If present, replace. Check that the red and black cables are connected to the red and black battery terminals respectively.

3. Check the display screen for white noise. This is caused by an improperly placed transducer. To fix, locate the transducer on the bottom of the boat. If the transducer is too close to the engine or the propellers noise is created. This is due to the propeller's cavitation creating air bubbles in the water.

4. Remove the transducer, either by unscrewing the mounts or by prying off the unit and breaking the epoxy seal. Move the transducer to a spot near the middle of the boat's hull and glue it or screw it into position. Check the screen for noise as a test to the repair.

5. Inspect the transducer cord for corrosion or wear. If present replace the transducer cable by unplugging it from the transducer and display screen and then plugging the replacement in the units.

6. Wipe down the control buttons on the display screen if they are sticky and unresponsive. Use the chamois cloth and sponge with warm water to clean the buttons. Spray them with the compressed air to free sediment from under the keys.

Tags: display screen, boat transducer, bottom boat, cable from, cable unplugging, Check that, fish finders

Overclock A Laptop

Overclocking a laptop is the process of tweaking system settings to enable the computer to run at faster speeds than recommended by the manufacturer. This will result in increased performance, but often at the downside of decreased life due to the additional heat being generated by the machine. Note that some laptop manufacturers intentionally block these overclocking settings, so your laptop might not be able to overclock at all.

Instructions

1. Reboot the laptop.

2. Press the key indicated during the startup messages to enter into BIOS. This is typically either "Esc" or one of the "F" keys.

3. Use the arrow keys to highlight the "Advanced Settings" menu and press "Enter."

4. Use the arrow keys to highlight the "FSB Clock" setting and press "Enter."

5. Input in a slightly higher value for the FSB clock setting (five to ten higher than its initial value) and press "Enter."

6. Press "Esc" and press "Y" to exit and save changes.

7. Repeat the process if your laptop remains stable (no crashes or other abnormal behavior) for a few days, increasing the FSB by five to ten more. Continue the process until you find the maximal stable speed for your laptop.

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