repairs

Mar 29 2009

The Build Disc – Part 3b (Heise)

imageUsing Offline Update:

(This article is written in reference to Offline Update v5.1 – it should remain relevant for other versions.)

It’s a two step process.  First, you need to run the Offline Update tool, tell it what updates you’re interested in, and tell it to go and download them from Microsoft.

This process can take quite a bit of time, but you only need to do it once (or, at least, once for each new version of the Offline Update tool – about every 3-5 months or so).

At the end of this first step, Offline Update produces .iso image files (you’ll find them in the “ctupdateiso” directory) that you can burn to disc.  Because I’m extending this I usually extract the created .iso images to combine with the other things I use on my build disc.

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By David • Build Disc • • Tags: , , , , , , ,

Mar 22 2009

Does my computer need regular servicing?

image

Dirt, dust, and other stuff found inside a computer during recent servicing.

Does my computer need regular servicing? Yes. No matter where your computer lives there will be dust around.  Because a computer uses fans to help keep cool, that dust will get sucked into the computer.  Also, the critters that live around you probably like that warm and dry environment of the computer – this can include spiders, mice, geckos, frogs, and so on. They all leave something behind.  Eventually, your computer can get clogged with this build-up of dust, dirt, spider webs, dead insects and so on.  If not cleaned out periodically, the computer may overheat, or short out, causing components in your computer to fail.

Ignoring the inside of your computer can lead to your computer failing completely.  This applies just as much to laptops as desktop computers.  Although the empty space in a laptop is nowhere near as great, there are still places where dust and other stuff can build up.  Particularly because laptops are often used in places where a desktop computer wouldn’t be – such as in a car, sitting outside on a park bench, etc.

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By David • Computers • • Tags: , , , ,

Mar 20 2009

Anyone can fix computers. Right?

imageAnyone can fix a computer can’t they?

Everyone knows somebody who “knows computers” and is happy to help sort out computer problems.  A friend, or relative, like this can be great to have around when you run into something you’re not sure about.  It sure beats having to pay a professional computer tech to fix the problem!

However, just like every other trade (including motor mechanics, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, etc) a job that looks simple, particularly when you watch a professional doing the job, may actually be more complicated and only look simple because the person doing the work has years of training and experience behind them.

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By David • Computers • • Tags: , ,

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