How can I fix the problems that my computer is experiencing if they are stemming from the fact that it doesn’t recognize the memory that I have just installed? Do I want to attempt to fix such problems on my own or should I hire a skilled computer technician? Well, I have the knowledge to try and resolve these issues on my own, so I am going to do a little troubleshooting and see what I come up with.

Fortunately, diagnosing and resolving why my computer isn’t recognizing the memory that I have just installed shouldn’t be too difficult. Any troubleshooting I do should be accomplished while my computer system has been turned off.

Since the installation is recent, I need to check for the most likely source of the problem- whether or not I have seated the memory properly. This would be a quick fix if this turns out to be the reason why my computer isn’t recognizing the memory. All I need to do is to make sure that the memory module is seated properly and securely in the proper slot. It should not be loose or askew.

Next, if I still need to troubleshoot the problem, I should to check whether I have installed the correct type of memory. Incompatible memory could be the cause of my memory problems. Memory is available in a number of different types and specifications that depend on the specific computer that I have. This includes desktops and laptops.

I should check my computer system’s requirements and double check that I have purchased the correct type of memory. If somehow I installed the wrong type of memory, I will need to replace it and start over with the correct type of memory.

Next, I need to check my computer’s requirements for the maximum amount of memory that I can install. Since it is possible to install too much memory, I need to ensure that I have not done so because this can lead to incompatibility issues. If this is what I have done, I simply need to remove the extra memory.

If none of the above scenarios seem to be creating the issue, I need to see if cleaning the modules will help. Both the pins and the sockets can be cleaned with a bit of rubbing alcohol applied with a clean cotton swab. It’s important not to leave any residue on the memory module.

Alternatively, I can move around the order of the memory modules in an attempt to resolve the issue. It might also help to make sure that I have installed the memory in the sockets with the lowest numbering.

 Knowing what kind of memory to purchase and install is not as difficult as one might think. On the surface, this is an imposing task for someone without much computer experience. There’s a lot to find out before I make my purchase. What kind of memory do I need to purchase? How many open slots do I have for memory? How much is too much memory? How much is too little memory?

However, like any new task, an easy-to-follow set of instructions and a willingness to learn go a long way. This is a task worth learning for anyone who wants to boost the performance of a computer by adding memory. Plus, it isn’t that difficult to find out how much memory is currently installed, what memory module sizes by the computer, and how much memory is already installed on the computer.

Whenever I want to upgrade the memory for one of my computers, I usually go straight to the hard case. Obviously, the computer needs to be turned off for this task. Once the case is open, I can easily identify how many empty modules I have as well as discovering how many I already have installed.

Unfortunately, if all of the slots are full, I will need to remove some of the memory modules in order to install larger modules. However, I need to refer to my operating system manual and find out the maximum amount of memory that my computer can hold.

Installing more memory than the machine can handle is not going to give me access to the extra memory. In fact, it can create processing problems for me if I install more than my computer can use. My computer might not even be able to recognize that I have sufficient memory to complete a task if I have installed more memory than my computer can handle. In most cases, the manual for the operating system will list a recommended memory allotment as well as the maximum memory allotment. I can also examine the operating system of my computer to get this information.

If I consult the manual for my computer system, I will be able to identify the type of memory that I need to install. Additionally, I should be able to locate specific information on the minimum, maximum, and recommended memory for my specific computer model.

On a system with Windows, finding some answers to the above questions can be as simple as going to the start menu. From start, navigate to the control panel and locate the system properties or information. From this location, I should be able to pick up some information on my computer’s memory. For a custom made computer, it will be necessary to check the manual for the motherboard in order to determine the specifications for the type of memory utilized.

Having a wireless keyboard and mouse can make your life a lot easier. You have fewer cords cluttering your desktop. The input devices can work even when they’re several feet away from the wireless receiver: that’s very nice when you consider that the average keyboard or mouse cable is not very long.But wireless input devices come with their own problems. When they aren’t working properly, you have all sorts of hassles and frustrations. This troubleshooting guide will help you figure out what’s wrong - and how to fix the problem so that you can get back to enjoying your computer time.

Most wireless keyboards and mice require batteries. If you installed the software that came with your input devices, then you might have a battery-power indicator. Check your system tray: that’s usually where the program puts this indicator. If this icon tells you that the batteries are strong, then you probably don’t have to worry about them. But it can still be a good idea to switch them out for a fresh set - just in case.

Your wireless receiver can cause all sorts of problems. This little gadget needs a somewhat-clear line of sight for the wireless signals to travel back and forth. Move your stuff out of the path between the devices and the receiver: that should improve the signal.

The receiver’s placement also affects your signal strength and device performance. Fluorescent lights, your monitor and your PC’s case can all interfere with the signal. Keep the receiver at least six - if not eight - inches away from all of these things. You should also note that metal surfaces are bad for the receiver. That includes the metal desk, unfortunately.

While you’re working on your signal strength: make sure that your keyboard and mouse are at least eight inches away from the receiver. This seems weird, but the truth is that they need to be at least this far apart for optimum signal strength.

Placing the receiver in the perfect spot can take some guesswork, but it’s worth your time. Once you figure out the best desktop arrangement for all this stuff, you can stop worrying about a failing mouse or keyboard and start being productive.

Another common problem is software related. If you haven’t installed the software that came with your keyboard and mouse, you should do that now. You should also make sure that you’re using the latest version: that way, you get all of the bug fixes that are necessary to make the hardware work properly.

If your wireless setup still isn’t working properly, you should restart your computer. This fixes a surprising number of problems - and is very simple to do.

Another thing to check - if you’re running Windows, anyway - is your installed hardware. Your Control Panel will let you access the listed hardware. Make sure that your wireless devices are listed. If Windows is not recognizing your input devices, then they won’t respond to your input.

If you’ve had the input devices for a while, you might want to clean them up. Dust and debris can make it very difficult, if not impossible, for the device to send a good signal. Don’t use solvents, chemicals, or other such things, as they can damage your hardware. In many cases, a soft, dry cloth is enough to clean up.

These tips will fix most of your wireless keyboard and mouse problems. If your hardware is still giving you trouble, you should contact the manufacturer for technical support. Many manufacturers include troubleshooting steps on their Web sites. Visiting this site is a good start, as you don’t have to wait in any line for support by live chat or telephone.

If you have more than one computer in the house - say, your desktop and a laptop, or your PC and your spouse’s - you’ll probably need to set up some sort of network. Otherwise, you’ll have a difficult time sharing the Internet connection. Networking also allows you to share files and hardware, which makes your life a lot easier. The person on the notebook computer can use the printer from the living room, kitchen or bedroom.

There are times when a wireless network has its advantages. These networks can be cheaper and easier to set up, for example. But disadvantages include things like stability and security. So, when should you set up a wireless home network - and when should you stick to a hard-wired system?

Consider a wireless network if:

• You’ll save money. The router and wireless cards can be expensive. However, this investment might be cheaper than the router and Cat-5 cables to hard-wire your computers. Take time for a price check to figure out which of these two options best fits your budget.

• Somebody in the house has a laptop - and uses that portable PC all over the place. If you like to move around between the computer area and the coffee table, for example, you’re probably going to need a wireless connection. Otherwise, you’re stuck at the desk.

• Security is within your means. If you have a wireless network, anybody within range could potentially tap into your resources. This can slow down your surfing speed and, in some cases, present legal problems should the intruder do something illegal. If you’re capable of securing the wireless network (which, incidentally, is easy to do), you don’t have to worry about unauthorized users.

• Running cables is difficult or even impossible. You probably shouldn’t put holes in rented housing for networking cable, for example. Damaging the walls could cause you to lose your deposit, which would make the hard-wired network even more expensive than the wireless alternative.

• You plan on moving in the near future. Why install all that wiring if you’re going to leave in a year or so? It’s easier to just set up the wireless network. When you leave, you simply unhook your computers, grab the router, and go.

• A lower connection speed doesn’t bother you. Sometimes, a wireless Internet adaptor offers you less surfing speed than the hard-wired equivalent. That’s fine when you remember that your main computer - typically a desktop - is connected to your provider’s modem. This means that your main PC will have the best-possible connection. Your other computers, however, won’t surf quite as quickly. This is fine in most cases, though.

Sometimes a wireless home network is best for your needs. Think about what you need to accomplish, as well as what hardware you’re working with, to make the right decision. You can also speak with friends, family and neighbors who are on wireless networks to see what they have to say about their experiences. They might be able to offer you tips and advice as well as recommendations for specific hardware that will work best.

Maintaining a Clean Keyboard

Dirty keyboards are the bane of even the sloppiest of users. Keys get stuck, fingers get sticky, and the most important accessory next to your mouse may need to be replaced more often than expected. So how do you prevent your keyboard from collecting dirt, dust, animal hair, and crumbs?

First, never eat over your keyboard. This may be the most difficult habit to abstain from, as our busy lives often require working while eating. However, bread and pastry crumbs, juice from fruit, and other messy foods can wreak havoc on your keyboard. If you must eat while typing, use a plate, and make sure never to eat directly over the keyboard itself. Swivel chairs may be conducive to this “clean keyboard” behavior, but it’s possible just to shift from munching over the keys themselves, to dripping gravy, crumbs, and pizza toppings over a plate.

Never drink over your keyboard. Well, never drink anything sticky over your keyboard. Water or unsweetened tea may be easily cleaned up if a spill occurs, but fruit juices, soda pops, or frappachinos may never come off if they spill into the nooks and crannies between the keys on the keyboard. Sticky keys can render your keyboard useless, and these drinks are full of sticky, sticky sugar. Think of the switch as a healthful one.

Cover your keyboard after you are finished working. Don’t worry about a fancy keyboard cover that fits your keyboard exactly. Simply use a clean hand towel to drape over your keyboard. This will keep dust and animal hair out of your keyboard and make cleaning it easier.

Use compressed air on your keyboard. Compressed air comes in cans that have slender straws attached that can adequately direct the air to blow underneath and around keys on a keyboard. This will help to dislodge any dirt, crumbs, or dust that may have collected underneath the keys. After doing this, turn your keyboard upside down and give it a good shake over a trash can to rid it of this gunk.

Take a vacuum cleaner to your keyboard. A vacuum cleaner with a handy arm attachment will do the trick, but it’s also possible to purchase small vacuums that are especially suited to sweeping up keyboard grime and other dust and dirt around the desk area. This won’t hurt your keyboard at all and will prove to be a great way of maintaining a clean keyboard.

Keep animals away from the desk area. It may be cute that Fluffy likes to watch you type, but her hair is no doubt shedding all over your work space. A gentle shooing will keep animals away from the keyboard and eventually they may learn to stay off altogether.

Keeping keyboards clean is essential for maintaining a productive work space. Especially if you have invested in a more costly ergonomic keyboard, you will want to extend the life of this pieces of equipment to its fullest. Keeping your keyboard clean is both easy and sensible to do!

The Right Laptop for You

Perhaps choosing the right laptop should be listed on the top ten list of stressors in your life.  There are so many laptop brands, sizes, and functions in the market today that the average consumer’s head will spin from information overload.  So, how can you decide on one “fish” in a sea of so many?

There are three basic items any consumer should focus on when thinking of purchasing a new laptop. 

1)  What is the processor speed?  In other words, is it a Dual Core Pentium, Celeron M, Quad Core, etc.  The more processors (duo or dual, quad) that you have the quicker it may be. 

2)  How much RAM is installed and can be installed total?  Any newer laptop should come with at least 256 MB, 512MB preferred, installed.  You should ask how much you can upgrade to and look for at least 1GB to 2 GB total upgradable RAM. 

3) How big is the hard drive?  40 GB is now the norm for new laptops, but the bigger the hard drive the better for you later in the future.  You can always upgrade you hard drive later, but if you get a big one when you initially purchase the machine, then it will only save you time, money, and the hassle of upgrading later.

Basically everything else companies tell you about the computer can be found in almost all laptops; CD-Rom or DVD, Wireless network card, video and graphics card, and an operating system which is normally Windows Vista or XP.  If your new laptop comes with Vista installed, then you need to definitely focus on the RAM issue since you need a minimum of 512 MB to run Vista efficiently, 1 GB to run Vista and other items at the same time.  In the end, keep the control of what you purchase in your court.  Do not be overwhelmed by monitor size and battery life.  If you focus on the three main components that you need in a laptop then you can get what you need and then add on from that point.