Computer Repair

Computer repair shops are notorious for charging unrealistically high computer repair prices, and this is a source of discontentment amongst many people. Computers are complex electronic devices, and it is normal for them to face certain problems occasionally. A machine can face many different kinds of hardware problems and software problems, and people who do not know much about how these systems work, are often in dire need of experts who can provide computer repair services.
If you have been to such a store at some time in your life, you will be well aware of the exorbitant prices that they quote. At an average, these stores will charge you around USD 75 - USD 100 just to look at the machine, analyze your complaint and try to figure out a suitable solution. And in most cases, the solution that they recommend is going to be an extremely pricey affair.
You will most commonly hear these people tell you that your hard disk needs a complete overhaul, and they will charge you about USD 200 just to make a back up of the contents of your drive. This is a ludicrous claim because this is something that you can do for free. These stores can also clean up your machine of all unwanted spyware and other software that takes up space and slows the machine down, and this will set you back by a cool USD 250 at least. Surely this is not an amount you want to pay for something so trivial and so simple to do yourself. Laptop computers and desktop computers usually face common problems that anyone can learn how to solve.
Average Computer Repair Prices
The rates that these stores quote for you are absolutely over the top, and there are many people who are completely ignorant about computers and thus fall for these gimmicks. The key is to read up a bit on the subject that is plaguing you, because information regarding the same is freely available over the Internet today. With a little bit of knowledge you can solve the problem yourself. Of course, this is possible only if the problem is a minor one or a common one. Issues with your hardware or with your machine refusing to start, are some problems that only an experienced individual can solve comprehensively.
You will also find that different computer repair shops charge very different computer repair prices. The prices that they quote depend heavily on a variety of factors. Here are some of these factors for your reference.
    * The location of the computer consulting store is a major decider. Stores in city centers will obviously charge more than stores in the outskirts of a town.
    * The level of competition also plays a major role. If there are more computer shops near the one you have visited, they will offer you lower computer repair rates. If they do not do so, they know that you will simply take your problem to the store that charges the least.
    * Your relationship and previous transactions with the store will also be taken into consideration. Visiting a store that you know and have dealt with before will get you a lower rate, as they will not try to dupe you.
    * The knowledge and the expertise of the repairman is also crucial. If he is highly qualified he will obviously charge a higher price for his services. On the other hand, amateurs and beginners will certainly quote lesser prices.
    * Lastly, the complaint that you have will also decide the price. A serious problem will cost far more than a problem that is elemental in nature and can be solved in a matter of minutes. The price will also rise if there is some part that needs to be replaced.
Before you decide to give your machine to someone for repair, you must compare the computer repair prices lists of different stores. Pick one that you feel is reasonable, without compromising on the quality of service and future computer performance. You can get very cheap rates from a shoddy store, but they may not solve your problem efficiently enough. You can also choose to get your machine repaired from one of the online repair stores. Their prices are much lower, but you will also have to pay shipping and transportation charges here. Try reading up more on the subject and improve your knowledge base about such matters, and this will help you solve many problems on your own as well. These articles on computer problems and solutions and troubleshooting computer problems will also prove extremely useful to you.
In order to get the best computer repair prices you need to search for a good store, and have some knowledge about the problem that you are facing. If possible, you must solve these problems yourself, or get a friend of yours to solve them for you.

USB

Of the many technologies which have had a huge impact on the computing world, USB (Universal Serial Bus) is an important one. The plug and play facility that it provides has made the use of storage devices like external hard drives, USB flash drives and other peripherals like printers quite easy. USB ports rarely cause any problems and when they do, troubleshooting them is not much of a hassle. In this article I present troubleshooting guidelines on the problem of USB ports not working properly.
Device portability has been made possible because of USB ports. Not just desktop and laptop computers but gaming consoles and smart phones are also fitted with USB ports. With USB 2.0 providing up to 480 Mbps of transfer speeds, data transfer is quite fast through USB ports. The ports can be recognized by a trident symbol that is etched near each port.
When you find USB ports not working on laptops, life can be difficult as connecting jump drives and devices like printers becomes impossible. In such cases, where you see USB device not recognized error message, the source of the problem may be the port. This problem can usually be fixed quite easily, as it mostly lies at a software level. Let me list the various troubleshooting techniques in the following section.
USB Ports not Working - What to do?
Every hardware device interfaces with the installed computer operating system through the driver software. A problem with most hardware devices, most of the times, can be traced to problems with installed drivers. Same is the case with USB ports not working as it should. Here are some ways in which you can troubleshoot USB ports at a software level.
Simply Restart the Computer
If USB ports have stopped working or you find USB ports not recognizing devices, what would be the simplest way of fixing them? Just restart the computer. If there has been any problem while loading drivers, it will be solved after a restart.
Run Device Manager
If restarting your computer doesn't work or if it isn't an option for you, then run the device manager. In case you find USB ports not working on XP, just use device manager by typing in 'devmgmt.msc' in the search box and running the application. In the window that opens, click on 'computer' in the list, go to the 'action' tab and click on 'Scan for hardware changes'. See if a USB device is listed in the hardware changes. If it is, your problem is solved as the port will now recognize devices.
Disable USB Controller
Another way to deal with USB not working is to disable and subsequently reinstall the USB controller devices. To do that you must go to 'Start' and type 'devmgmt.msc' in the search box and run it. In the list that you see inside the window that opens, locate the USB controllers. Right click and uninstall all of them. Once you have finished uninstalling all the controllers, just restart the computer. The controllers will be reinstalled as the ports are recognized. That may solve your problem.
Update USB Port Driver
Another reason for USB ports not working is the corruption of USB driver. The only way out is to search for the right drivers and reinstall them. You may have to know the manufacturer of the port device and its code to download the appropriate driver. The restoration of the proper driver should fix the problem for you in a jiffy.
I hope, that after reading this article, you are left in no doubt about what to do when you find USB ports not working. If none of the above methods work, it is likely that the USB port has been physically damaged. In that case, it is best that you get it replaced or repaired from a computer technician or a computer repairs. However, I am sure that your problem will be mostly be limited to the software level and it will be solved by applying the above fixes.

Screen Not Working

t is really frustrating when simple functions on a computer don't work. 'Print Screen' is one of them. In this article I discuss simple ways of fixing the 'Print Screen Not Working' problem that crops up sometimes.
Many desktop or laptop computer users prefer to operate completely through the keyboard. Most do not need a mouse to operate as it is completely possible to carry out all functions using the keyboard. This is made possible by the various shortcut keys provided on the computer keyboard. There are some that function directly, like the letter keys.
Some functions are carried out by keyboard keys combination like 'Ctrl + Alt + Delete' (the most famous keyboard combination ever!), some are carried out by a devoted keyboard button like the 'Print Screen' key. By learning how to use print screen, you can easily take a screen shot of your desktop. This function is often helpful while recording errors on Windows and other operating systems. It can also be helpful when saving a webpage snapshot as a record.
I recently faced a problem of print screen command key not working properly. When I searched online, there was hardly any useful information presented, that could solve the problem. Finally, I had to gather bits and pieces from several computer forums to find an effective solution to 'print screen not working' on laptop. I decided to share these tips on solving the screen capture not working problem here. It bugs many people using a laptop which is Windows based.
Print Screen not Working - What to Do?
To get a screen shot, all you have to do is hit 'PrtScn' button and using 'Ctrl + V', you can paste that image in any image editor to save. Often the problem of print screen not working in Windows Vista or Windows 7 crops up when you want to copy the screen shots to paint or to Adobe Photoshop. I assume that you already know how to take a screenshot on a laptop or desktop computer. Here are some ways in which you can take care of the problem quite effectively. One of these fixes is bound to work for you.
Just Restart the Computer
Sometimes the 'print screen not working' problem is at a hardware level, where the keyboard entries are not mapping properly. Simply restarting your computer might restore the functionality of the computer.
Turn F Lock Off
Microsoft introduced the F Lock function to provide alternate application based tasks to the function keys (F1 - F12). It was later incorporated by keyboard manufacturers with a special key devoted to it. In case F lock is turned on, the print screen functionality may get disabled. Turning off the F lock key will restore functionality.
Press Fn Key
If you find keyboard print screen command not working on your laptop, you may need to use the 'Fn' key. In some laptops, you have to press the Fn key, along with the printscreen key to get the job done. The Fn key, in case you haven't noticed, is located between the control and Windows key at the bottom left corner of the key board. That should solve your problem.
Use Snipping Tool
If you find print screen not working in Windows 7 or Windows Vista, there is an alternative way that you can take. Use the 'Snipping Tool' utility. Go to All Programs > Accessories > Snipping Tool. Using this program which is a special tool developed by Microsoft, you can take screen shots of whole or part of the desktop. It lets you crop certain parts when taking a screen shot.
Download and Install Gadwin
If you are using Windows XP, then the snipping tool won't be available. If you are wondering how to take a screenshot in Windows XP, there is another way. Just download and install 'Gadwin', a freeware utility that can easily get screen shots for you. This is not really a fix of the print screen button not working problem, but an alternative that can save you time.
Hope, these tips on fixing the print screen not working in Windows XP or later versions of Windows were helpful. As I have suggested before, if the incompatibility problem persists, there are plenty of software program options that can do the job of taking screen shots for you.

Troubleshooting

You are ready to start your day with energy and finish off all the pending reports you have got to type. You sit in your chair with a cup of coffee at your desk. You press the power button on the computer CPU and you see an error message on your computer. What a frustrating start to your day! You call the computer guy of your office, only to know he will be arriving late. You either sit idle waiting for the computer guy to turn up or take matters into your hands. I am sure you must have come across a situation that is somewhat similar to this one and are trying to prepare yourself for troubleshooting computer problems. In this article, you shall learn how to troubleshoot computer problems that are very common as well as easy to solve.
How to Troubleshoot Computer Problems?
Every computer user faces some common computer hardware problems. One needs to recognize and find computer problems and solutions before calling for help. You may either have problems with power supply, computer monitor, mouse or speakers. Let us learn troubleshooting computer problems that arise commonly.
Troubleshooting Computer Monitor Problems
If you are having computer display problems, then you may have to try troubleshooting computer monitor problems and resolve the issue.
    * First you need to check if you have turned on the monitor. You may have to switch on the power button or switch off your monitor to be able to see the display.
    * You need to check if your monitor cable connection is loose or unplugged. If yes, make sure you plug it back in.
    * Check the display settings of your monitor as your settings for brightness and contrast may be too dark to be visible.
    * You can attach another monitor to your computer to check whether it is working fine. If not, means your computer is not able to send information to the monitor. Nothing is wrong with your original screen and you need to troubleshoot CPU problems.
    * You can use a different monitor data cable to check if the cable is faulty and cannot send information from the PC to the monitor.
    * If nothing helps, call for professional help.
Troubleshooting Computer Mouse Problems
A computer mouse may stop working due to several reasons. The following points will help in troubleshooting computer mouse problems.
    * If you find your computer mouse is not working, you may have to check whether the connections are lose or if the mouse is unplugged completely.
    * Suppose your mouse stops working suddenly, check if the connections are loose. If there is no connection problem, you may have to check if there is any residue inside the trackball chamber. You can clean the trackball using cotton dipped in alcohol.
    * If your pointer seems funny, you may have to run an anti virus scan using your antivirus software.
    * If you find no virus in your computer, you may have to go to 'Control Panel' and open 'System'. Here, go to 'Device Driver Tab' and find 'Mouse'. You need to check if the driver is installed. If the icon has a yellow sign over it, means your mouse has problems. You need to uninstall the mouse and reboot your computer. Then reinstall the mouse driver and restart your PC for troubleshooting computer problems.
Troubleshooting Computer Speaker Problems
If you are having problems with your computer speakers, do not worry. You can try troubleshooting computer speaker problems as explained in the following points and find quick solutions to your woes.
    * You need to check if your speakers are plugged in properly. Make sure your speaker pins are plugged into the computer as well as power supply properly.
    * You need to check if your sound card is working properly. You can check this by plugging in another set of speakers to your computer. You can even try plugging in a set of headphones. You can test your sound card by using a CD or a music file. If there is no sound from the new speakers or headphones, you may need to carry out troubleshooting computer sound card problems.
    * Check if the volume of your computer speakers in turned down. Turn the speaker buttons from 'Min' to 'Max' and check for sound. You can even click on the sound icon on your desktop and click on it. Check if the volume is turned up and the 'Mute All' box is unchecked.
    * You need to check the software of your sound card and see if you have set the correct volume settings.
    * If another pair of speakers or headphones are working on your computer without any problem, it means that your speakers have problems. You may need to give them for servicing to a professional or replace them for new ones.
Troubleshooting Computer Sound Problems
You may not hear sound from your speakers due to different reasons. You may try troubleshooting computer sound problems by trying the following tips:
    * Check if your speakers are connected to the computer properly. Also, check whether the power supply is on.
    * You need to check the volume control on your speakers and see if the volume settings are not set on Mute.
    * If you face a sudden loss of sound while listening to music, you may have to carry out System Restore. You can do this by clicking on 'Start' and then going to All Programs. Here go to 'Accessories' and 'System Tools'. You will find 'System Restore' in System Tools. The wizard will guide you through the following steps for system restore.
    * If this does not work, it may happen that the sound driver is corrupted or missing. You may have to uninstall and then reinstall the drivers to correct the problem.
    * If nothing else works, you may have to update the BIOS for troubleshooting computer sound problems.
These were a few tips that you can use for troubleshooting computer problems. You can try these troubleshooting computer problems tips and see if your problem gets solved. If the problem persists, you need to seek professional help. Always carry out regular computer maintenance as it will help minimize the glitches you may face. I hope this article on how to troubleshoot computer problems has helped solved some of your computer troubles.

System Restore

Major PC problems can be solved by the 'System Restore' feature, but with System Restore not working, you might feel completely lost. Wondering why is System Restore not working? Before we talk about fixing this problem, let's find out more about the System Restore feature available in Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7. System Restore allows the roll back of system files, registry keys, installed programs, etc., to a previous state in the event of a system failure. It is a very handy tool which provides you with an opportunity to undo certain unwanted changes that you made to your computer. It automatically saves snapshots or restore points of your Windows system settings and files. If anything goes wrong, for instance, if negative changes made by viruses in the system folders or registry have to be reversed, at such critical times, an enabled System Restore will restore your system to a previous working state. In case of Windows 7, you can also create your own restore points. The problem starts when this feature fails. With System Restore not working, you cannot create restore points and therefore, cannot get your computer to a prior check point. Thus, it is unable to run in the way you want it to run.
How to Fix 'System Restore Not Working'?
System Restore not working in Windows 7? In case System Restore doesn't work when you boot normally, try restoring your computer in safe mode. Since this is a simpler operating system setup, running tasks like System Restore might be rendered easier for your system. Wondering how to boot in safe mode? For this, you have to repeatedly tap the F8 button when your computer is booting up, and select the option that enables you to start your computer in safe mode from the list. When you get into Windows in safe mode, try running System Restore. Once you restart, you will be out of safe mode. Some people face problems with System Restore not working in safe mode, if that happens, you have the option of using the System Restore disk. If you have a System Restore disk in your optical drive when your computer boots, the computer must boot to the restore disk, and not to your hard drive. Adjustment of the BIOS settings would be required for making your computer boot from the restore disk. Once you see the System Restore disk menu, follow the instructions in order to perform a System Restore. Sometimes, a virus attack or problems in the anti-virus software could be responsible for your System Restore not working. Scan for viruses and check if you need a better anti-virus program. That might solve the problem. These instructions can be followed in case of System Restore not working in Windows 7, Windows XP and Windows Vista as well.
Windows XP System Restore Not Working
One of the major causes for Windows XP System Restore not working might be corrupted restore points. This problem can be solved by restarting from an earlier restore point. Another reason for Windows XP System Restore not working might be related to less space on your hard drive. System Restore requires at least 200 MB, in case you don't have that much free space, that might cause problems in functioning of System Restore. If you're very low on disk space, you can dump some files or run a disk defragmentation. Disc cleanup will help to free up space and that will lower the chances of System Restore not working. If you tried these methods, but find your System Restore not working yet, you could boot your system from your Windows XP CD. You need to set your BIOS to boot from the CD drive. After putting the XP CD in the drive, restart your computer. When your computer boots up, look for 'Automated System Recovery' at the screen. There will be a scan and this program will find the required files from your XP CD. You must then reboot your computer, and then the reconfiguration of the system files will take place. With that, the problem of System Restore not working will be solved.
Now you know what to do in case of System Restore not working in Vista, Windows XP and Windows 7. So, the next time you find System Restore not working on your computer, don't get hassled. Follow these instructions in order to solve the problem.

CPU Usage Problem

If you are experiencing high CPU usage problems on your computer, then the slow speed of your machine must be really driving you up the wall. This is something that happens quite frequently, and there are a variety of reasons that lead to this abnormally high CPU usage rate. If you regularly find yourself asking 'Why is my computer so slow', then high CPU usage is definitely a potential culprit.
The first thing you need to know is how to check the CPU usage rate on your machine. You can do so by pressing 'Ctrl + Shift + Esc', or by pressing 'Ctrl + Alt + Delete' and then clicking the 'Task Manager' option. In the subsequent window, that opens, you need to click on the 'Processes' tab. This will show you the CPU usage rate of all the applications that are currently running on the computer. You can also double click on the 'CPU' option and then you will see all the applications in ascending or descending order of CPU usage.
A high CPU usage problem will be evident from this window, and you will need to fix this immediately. If you fail to do so, your machine will continue to run at an excruciatingly slow pace. Also note that this technique is useful only for people using Microsoft Windows. This article will help you solve the problem of high CPU usage - Windows XP, and high CPU usage - Vista.
Causes of High CPU Usage
There are a load of computer viruses and malicious software that can harm and affect your computer in many different ways. One of the most common effects of these viruses is to gain control of your CPU usage, and involve it completely in a meaningless task. Note that high CPU usage with no programs running is a clear indicator that your machine has been breached by a harmful program.
In order to solve the high CPU usage problem that is caused by viruses or worms, you must purchase an effective antivirus software, and upgrade it from its official website on a regular basis.
Another cause for this problem is a faulty program, or a damaged file of some sort. Though, it is impossible to check the legibility of each and every file on your machine, there is a way you can get to the bottom of this problem. Go to the 'Start' menu, click on 'Run' and then type 'msconfig' in the box that opens and then hit Enter. Now click the 'Startup' tab and check all the items that have been ticked. If you see anything suspicious, uncheck it. Reboot your machine after each item you uncheck and then check the CPU usage each time. This should help you pinpoint the program responsible for the high CPU usage problem. This is one of the many ways to make computer faster that you can make use of.
When you are checking the CPU usage for your programs, you will see an option known as 'System Idle Process'. The usage rate for this will always be very high. If you are seeing high CPU usage when idle or working some programs, do not be alarmed.
Sometimes when you are running some heavy applications on your computer, the CPU usage will shoot up considerably. This is not something that you need to be concerned with. Check the CPU usage when there are no programs running, in order to get a true picture about any malicious software's presence. If your heavy program is not responding at all, then you can choose to end it from the Task Manager window, and this will solve the high CPU usage problem.
Also make sure that you are running your Windows updates on a regular basis, and also updating your antivirus software at least once a week. These updates are absolutely essential for your machines well being, and the regularity with which you take care of them will determine the computer performance levels.
If everything you try fails, just take your machine to a computer repair shop and tell them the problem you are facing. A trained and experienced professional will be able to solve your high CPU usage problem in no time.