For most travelers it is just best to leave your notebook (aka laptop) at home. However, there are certain instances where you just have to take it. In that case here are a few tips to make the journey a little easier. As always...if you have a question that is not addressed here just "Ask Ron"!

1. Carry-On or Check it?
   Keep your notebook with you at all times. It goes with you on the flight as carry-on baggage. It is not recommended to store it in the overhead storage area; it could get knocked around by someone else. Absolutely do not put your notebook in with your checked luggage. Baggage handlers aren't expecting expensive electronics to be in the stored baggage areas and you can't expect it to be treated as a fragile object. Also, I'm sure you don't want it to "accidentally" disappear.
2. Visual Inspection (Hand checking)
   You may be required to remove your notebook from its carrying case and turn it on to demonstrate to Security/Customs that the notebook is exactly that - a functioning computer. A good way to save time if you anticipate this happening is to turn on your notebook as you set it on the conveyor so that by the time it gets to the inspector, it is already booted up. Then turn your computer off properly at the end of the inspection. You don't want to put the computer in suspend or sleep mode when you put it back in your carrying bag because even in sleep mode, your computer is still turned on...you don't want it to overheat inside your carrying bag. This is also a good reason to ensure that your notebook battery is kept charged. When your notebook is examined in this manner it is often called "hand checking". Sometimes you will not be required to turn the computer on...but if they do ask and your computer doesn't boot, they have the right to confiscate your computer.
3. Should You X-Ray Your Notebook?
   Letting your notebook go through the x-ray equipment will not harm your notebook. The magnetic field which is generated is not enough to cause harm to your hard drive or cause damage to your data. Metal detectors on the other hand, can cause damage. Request politely that Security/Customs do not use the metal detector but do a hand check instead.
4. Carry Proper Documents
   It's very important when returning to your country of origin, that you have the correct Customs documentation or original receipts. These show that the notebook and other mobile gear is what you left the country with. The onus is on you to prove that you already own the equipment and did not purchase it while traveling. You will have to pay duty and taxes on items purchased while traveling if you can't provide proof of ownership.
5. Keep a Low Profile
   Don't draw attention to yourself while waiting for your flight or while in-flight. While waiting for your flight and using your notebook, pick an area where you will have some privacy and don't have to worry about someone looking over your shoulder. If it's too crowded, don't use your notebook. Wait for a time when it's less crowded. If someone is curious about your notebook, be brief but polite and pack it in. They could be looking for a notebook to steal.
6. Don't Let Your Notebook Out of Sight
   If you let your notebook get out of sight even for a few minutes, it could be gone. If you have to use the facilities in an airport, take your notebook bag with you. The only exception is if you are traveling with someone you know and trust, but remind them to not leave your notebook unattended. While going through the Security/Customs screening keep a close view of your notebook if you are required to set it down for any reason.
7. Fact or Fiction - The Airport Notebook Scam
   While there have been no recorded incidents of this type of theft it's still wise to keep this scenario in mind. Two people will get in line ahead of you at the security area. You have placed your notebook on the conveyor belt and it has moved ahead. The first person goes through with no problems but the second has many difficulties. While you and Security/Customs are distracted, the first takes off with your notebook. Always wait until the last moment to put your notebook on the conveyor belt.
8. Keep Your Notebook Case Locked
   In order to prevent someone from helping themselves to your other mobile gear and documents, keep your notebook bag locked. If you have it sitting on the floor by your feet it is possible for someone to get access to it unless it has been locked. Another reason for keeping your notebook case locked is so that someone is not able to put anything "extra" in your notebook case. An open case could be a tempting location for someone to drop an item into, and then later take the case to get the item.
9. Back up, back up, back up!
   We've stressed it before and it bears repeating. While it would be frustrating to have your notebook lost, stolen or broken, it would be even more stressful to lose your data. The data is what is really valuable! Do a full back up to an external hard drive before you leave. Keep your data on a portable thumb drive while you travel. An encrypted thumb drive is especially nice when traveling, just in case it gets misplaced.
10. Use a proper notebook bag
    Make sure the notebook bag or carrying case you transport your notebook in provides adequate padding. As you move about the airport or shove the notebook under the seat in front of you or into the overhead storage compartment, the notebook can be jarred and jostled quite a bit. Using a notebook neoprene sleeve can help. You can even get TSA approved bags that allow for an unobstructed view of your notebook in the x-ray which allows you to avoid having to take the notebook out while going through security. Also keep in mind that you don't want to put too much pressure on the top of your notebook computer. Sometimes people pack too much in their carrying bag putting too much pressure on the top of the notebook, causing their screen to break. That can be quite an expensive repair.
11. Use a surge suppressor
    Even in travel there is no longer an excuse for not using a surge suppressor. There are very compact, portable surge suppressors that will fit neatly in your bag. With international travel it is especially important. An electrical surge can potentially destroy your notebook. Remember you want a Surge Suppressor, not a power strip.
12. Be aware of your notebooks power requirement
    All of our power adapters for our notebooks have the power requirements written right on the adapter. Most computers also have specific details written on the bottom of the computer or in the owner's manual. There are two things to be aware of here. First, you need to pay very close attention to the OUTPUT of the power adapter. As an Example, our QC1722 power adapter has an output of 19volts, 6.3 amps. It is absolutely necessary that you use that exact output for that notebook computer. DO NOT change to any other power adapter that has any other output that is listed on the original power adapter for your specific model of notebook or you will damage your notebook!

    Second, look for the INPUT information on the adapter and it will show you the maximum voltage that it can be plugged into. For Example our QC1722 Series notebooks have an input on the adapter that says: 100-240 Volts, 2.0 Amps, 50-60Hz. So as long as your power input from whatever country you are travelling to is below those specifications, then it will be safe for the notebook as long as you are using the correct power adapter. Our standard power adapters have a Standard Type B North American three pin plug or a Type A North American two prong plug. Other countries will have different standard plugs that will require you to get an adapter to plug the power adapter into. We recommend that you check the type of plug for the country you are travelling to, before you leave so you are sure to have the right adapter for your trip. Here are a few websites that list details for Electrical requirements around the world: international-electrical-supplies.com, Kropla.com and also Wikipedia.org or you can just use Google to find something more specific. There are many kinds of travel adapters found around the world. Most major electronics retailers that sell computers will have them. Targus & Kensington are two brands that seem to be quite popular in the USA. Also International Electric Supplies has a nice one too.

Most computer users have experienced this nuisance at least once. If your notebook has a standard optical drive, you can make it eject the disc by inserting an unfurled paperclip into the tiny hole located on the front of the drive; this will instantly eject the CD or DVD. Slot-loading disc drives (such as the ones in Apple's MacBook family) require that you insert something flat into the slot to stop the disc from spinning and eject; a credit card or business card does the trick.

We've recently had some customers express concern over Windows XP. It seems there are some rumors going around. Don't let reports of new operating systems, expiring support, or short supply scare you. We have plenty of copies of Windows XP Home and Pro OEM available. As for Microsoft not supporting XP...they'll be supporting XP for security updates until 4-8-14 as long as you purchase an extended policy with Microsoft. For more details about this from Microsoft Click Here to go to their website.

It is true that Vista is on the chopping block for later this year. Windows 7 will replace Vista (Windows 6) as soon as possible...or so said the staff members at the Microsoft booth at the CES Tradeshow in Las Vegas back in January. Currently we at Quantum Computers still use and recommend Windows XP. When that changes we will be sure to let you know.

Answers To "SleepMode" Questions

Many people have questions about the sleep function on their computer. This is also sometimes called hibernation mode. For simplicities sake I'll stick with the term "sleep mode". Here are a few of the most commonly asked question.

QUESTION: What is sleep mode?
ANSWER: It is an energy-saving mode of operation in which all unnecessary components are shut down. When a notebook goes into sleep mode, it shuts down the display screen and disk drive. Once awakened, the computer returns to its former operating status.

QUESTION: Should I turn off my laptop when I'm finished for the day or put it in "sleep mode"?
ANSWER: Many tech magazines and computer companies suggest that you shut down your computer every day and I agree 100%. It is always best to completely turn of your computer when you are finished with it .There are many reasons for this but here are a few of the most important:

1. The Windows Operating System can develop problems as you use your computer. When you reboot your computer many of these errors that build up will clear which can actually give your system a refresh.
2. Your laptop eats power whether it is running or in sleep mode. Your power consumption will be much lower if you shut off your computer every day. Our "high end" laptops are especially power hungry...just look at the size of the power adapters and batteries we use to keep them moving fast for you. We all need computers in today's electronic age, but we can also be conscious of using more resources than necessary. You'll help both your pocket book and the environment by powering down completely.
3. Laptops are like automobiles in one sense. With an automobile you usually gauge the lifespan by the odometer. A laptop is similar in the sense that the more you use it (mileage), the closer it comes to parts wearing out from normal wear and tear. When you power down it is like turning off the engine and not just idling. Thus saving wear and tear.

QUESTION: When is sleep mode good to use?
ANSWER: Sleep mode can be very useful during working hours when you are going to be away from your computer for more than a couple minutes. It is better to use than screen-saver programs, which put images on your screen while you're away from the PC. They can be fun, but they don't save energy. In fact, they waste energy by lighting up the monitor, taxing memory and the CPU.

QUESTION: Should I let my computer automatically go into sleep mode?
ANSWER: For most users that is fine. However, biofeedback practitioners will not want to use the auto sleep mode. You don't want your laptop going to sleep when it senses that your computer is inactive while running a particularly long protocol. It is best to manually enable sleep mode when you desire it. If you have a Quantum Laptop, that function has already been disabled for you. If your auto sleep mode is enabled it is easy to change the setting. Follow these simple instructions:

1. Click Start
2. Select Setting
3. Select Control Panel
4. Select Power Options
5. Under Power Schemes tab select "Always On" from the drop down menu
6. Under Setting for Always on Power Scheme make sure all the drop down menu's have "never" selected
7. Click Apply and Okay

So in conclusion sleep mode does have its uses, but it is best to be in control of its function and shut down completely when you are finished. If your question is not addressed here please submit a question to the Ask Jon column for a quick answer.

---

Manually boost the notebook's brightness first; you may have lowered it with a few accidental presses over the course of time. On most notebooks you can increase the brightness by using a simple Fn key command. Just press and hold the Fn key while hitting the screen brightness key, typically denoted by an icon with a little sun and an up arrow next to it.

If that doesn't do the trick you may want to try charging the system with a new power cord because your current one could be on its last legs and not supplying enough juice to properly power the display. If neither of these tips work, the notebook may be suffering from a blown inverter board, which controls the brightness of the display. This is when you will require a technicians' steady hand.

---

Notebooks run silky smooth out of the box, but after years of stockpiling music, video, photos, and applications, they tend to lose their snappiness. Fortunately, there are several methods to return your notebook's luster.

One surefire tip is defragging the hard drive, which brings the clusters of information living within your hard drive closer together for faster access. We also recommend uninstalling programs you no longer use and running antivirus and antispyware software for eliminating resource-hogging malware. We recommend Norman Security Suite for this.

Additionally, try disabling programs from auto-running on startup, which eats precious resources. Click Start>Run, type "msconfig," and then click the Startup tab to take a gander at all the programs that boot at launch. Uncheck whichever programs you don't need. If none of the above helps it may be time for an "overhaul". Click here for more details on that.

---

Okay, so this article isn't strictly a "tech tip". However, I am often asked the question: "Aren't MAC's better than a PC?" It's a legitimate question. With all the hype surrounding Mac's lately it's easy to think that Mac users must know something you don't. Perhaps you are thinking of buying a new computer and struggling with that question yourself. Obviously I'm a little PC biased, but I shall endeavor to give a fair answer to this question. Just to make the article easier to follow, when I refer to PC, I am referring to a Windows based computer.

I read an article the other day that said there are 1 Billion computers in the world. It said that 87% of those computers are running Microsoft XP (68%) or Vista (19%) Operating Systems (OS). That means the remaining 13% of the world's computers are running another Operating System (i.e. Unix, Linux, Ubuntu, Fedora, or Mac's Leopard, Panther, Tiger, OS 10 etc.) or other variances of the above mentioned software.

Now why would I take the time to mention this? I hear the comment several times a week that these other Operating Systems (the 13% group) are so much better because they don't get viruses, they don't have problems etc. and it bothers me a little. For a few reasons...

I don't know the exact figure, but for the sake of comparison, let's say Mac computers (Apple) represent 5% of the computer population. When people say "Mac's don't get viruses"..."they are a better computer"...is that really the truth? Well, Mac's do get viruses. The thing people aren't considering is that you don't hear about it as much, because there aren't near as many Mac's in the world as there are computers with the Windows Operating System. Also, the people who write viruses are looking for credit for their work so they target the largest amount of computers that they can…meaning they target PCs. Another reason for people to make viruses is to make money. This is usually done by some type of spyware to gather information about browsing habits and/or cause popup ads. Again it is in their best interests to target the largest amount of people that they can. No system is impervious to viruses, worms, or anything else - let's remember that Mac was basically the only system available in the 80's and early 90's and had all sorts of problems. They don't anymore, because the market share is so small for Mac users - in other words, why waste time on a system that hardly anyone owns?

Let's use the same 5% figure and talk about quality. I hear people all the time say that Mac's are a better quality computer. Macs at first did use their own hardware and/or components however recently they have started to use the same components as PCs. The components that make up both computers are generally equally reliable. However, PCs are usually easier to upgrade because they have open architecture. It is also usually easier to have repaired. Your local repair shop will not always be able to service a Mac. Sure Macs have a few features that are different, maybe a different color plastic or maybe an aluminum case but the components that are inside that case is what makes the hardware reliable. I’m not going to make any statements about what specific “brands” of components Macs use compared to other PC’s. There are a wide range of possibilities. We can truly only vouch for the component manufacturers we choose for our computers. This leaves the software installed on the computer as the only true difference.

Let us now look at the major differences in the Operating System Software. The main difference between the two of course is how they look. The content, in other words what is included as part of the system, is about the same. They both have a web browser, an email client and some simple text editing software. The software that can be added is where differences start to arise. Now, I also want to make clear that there are a few programs that are made for both platforms and possibly two programs one for the Mac and one for the PC that is comparable. One major thing which may not matter to you is games. Most of the big computer games are made only for the PC. Another is Clasp32 or the SCIO USA software which is made only for the PC (Windows OS). The list could go on and on but I won't. One other thing that I do want to bring up is the cost of the software and hardware. If you make the comparison with equal components and/or software, which would be a more Accurate comparison, you will find that the Mac is usually more expensive.

The one thing to remember about making the decision is that the PC and Mac can do most of the same activities. Whether you want to browse the internet, check your e-mail, instant message, create documents or presentations, or listen/edit/create music or video, both a PC and a Mac can do most things equally well given you have the right software. The final decision will always come down to an individual's preference and how you are planning to use the computer. So, Mac vs. PC…which one is better? Well, the choice is up to you. Which one would I choose? Well, a Windows PC of course! ?

---

The laptops that tend to come through our office for repairs all seem to have the same common issues - Screen Damage, Liquid Damage, Heat Damage, Impact Damage, Debris Damage etc. etc. etc. We do realize that "Accidents Do Happen"… as laid out in the last newsletter. However, proper care of your laptop can go a long way toward prolonging its life.

It's easy to take your laptop for granted. Have you ever caught yourself cramming it into an over-crowded bag, dangling your sandwich over the keyboard at lunch, or maybe plopping your laptop directly on your lap or sofa? Don't be embarrassed…I'm not going to scold you. I'm going to educate you.

Our tech team has come up with a Top Ten list of "Do's" and "Don'ts". Let's start our countdown with the "Don'ts".

---

Number 10
Don't leave your laptop on the floor. Dogs, kids, your clumsy Aunt Thelma, or blind Great Gran-Gran are bound to step on it. Not to mention the dust and debris that will clog your fans, or the carpet that will suffocate your ventilation system.

Number 9
Don't crush your laptop by stuffing books/paraphernalia around it inside your bag. You don't want to risk breaking your screen. Keep pens, pencils and paper clips out of your laptop compartment. Or, consider getting a protective neoprene sleeve for your laptop.

Number 8
Don't pile heavy objects on top of your laptops when they're on your desk. Again it's the crushing factor. Screens are very expensive to replace. Treat it with care.

Number 7
Don't pick up or hold your laptop by the screen, or scratch, twist, hit, or push the surface of the display. It only takes the pressure equivalent of squeezing a grape on the right part of a screen to break it. This is something to bear in mind when picking up a laptop. Use two hands on the base.

Number 6
Don't put pressure on the hinges when you open or close it. Grabbing the right or left hand corner and opening or slamming it shut is a big NO-NO! You're putting pressure on one hinge instead of equally on both which will result in a broken or twisted hinge. Close your laptop carefully by using both hands or one hand squarely in the center. And for heavens sake, don't leave ANYTHING on your keyboard when you close it.

Number 5
Don't use your laptop near water. This sounds simple enough. Most of you would be conscientious enough not to use your laptop while dangling your feet in the pool, but how many of you have taken your laptop into the bathroom or kitchen? It's something to think about.

Number 4
Don't leave your laptop in your car or store in very warm (above 95° F) or cold (below 45° F) places. Garages, basements, and attics are not a good idea.

Number 3
Don't place your laptop on a pillow, bed, sofa, carpet, table cloth, your lap or other soft material when it's on, because this may block the airflow vents on the bottom of the laptop and cause the computer to overheat. But it's a "laptop" you say, right? Well, whoever coined that term was an idiot! Some companies are now appropriately calling them Notebooks, and we will soon be migrating to that term also. Further, keep your laptop at least five inches from any electrical appliance that generates a strong magnetic field (i.e., TVs and refrigerators).

Number 2
Don't carry around your laptop with the power on. Laptops shouldn't be moved while they're switched on. Laptop hard drives use the same type of mechanism as in desktops; movement greatly increases the chance of hard drive damage. One solid jolt of your hard drive can cut the life expectancy in half and can often cause the lens to be scratched! Power down, and then move it. Oh, and never put your laptop into the Sleep mode or Suspend mode and put it in the carrying bag… that's what we call a Double Whammy!

Number 1 (Drum roll, please!)
Don't eat or drink next to your laptop. No liquids, especially sweet, sticky drinks like soda, anywhere near your laptop. This seems like a no brainer, but it is easier said than done. We all need our fix or (for the health conscious) our hydration for optimum performance. Get in the practice of having a safe place near your desk, but not on your desk and no where within spilling range of your laptop, to place your must have cup of coffee/Mt. Dew or (again for the more health conscious) water/herbal tea. If you always put your beverage in your "safe place", you have less chance of accidentally knocking it with your elbow and having the contents flung across your keyboard. Or better yet, when you get the yearning, actually take a break (a novel concept in our rushed and hurried life I know) and enjoy your guilty pleasure (or perhaps health enhancing habit) in a completely safe and computer free zone. You'll get back to work refreshed and your laptop will have been spared. We've had many laptops arrive for repairs because their cat brushed up against their glass of water trying to get attention… woopsie! All over the keyboard! There goes $400 for a new motherboard! If you really have to do it, you are going to like this one, get a sippee cup!

Now for the "Do's" portion of our lesson. These are just as important as the "Don'ts", so keep reading. I know you're in a hurry, so I'll try to make it fast.

---

Number 10
Do condition your laptop battery, meaning charge and drain your battery a few times when you first get it. Then practice good battery maintenance. Do not leave your laptop plugged in all the time. This is a bad habit to get into and a very hard habit to break. In an ideal situation, you should unplug the laptop when it is fully charged and let it run down until you get the automated message about the battery being low. This setting should be somewhere between 3% and 15%. Once you get the message, charge until full. Think of your charging habits for your mobile phone. You're not going to charge a fully charged mobile phone, and you are not going to leave your mobile plugged in 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Batteries need to be trained, so to get the best out of your battery follow this hint. The exception here is during a bio-feedback session. You'll want to be plugged in during a session since the programs are typically very power hungry, and you don't want to run out of battery power in the middle of a protocol.

Number 9
Do clean your computer often. Laptops pick up a lot of dust and grime. We recommend completely turning off the laptop and running a vacuum over the air vents on the under-side of laptop. If you have a brush attachment (aka the curtain attachment) for the vacuum, then run that across the keyboard too (NEVER use the vacuum on the screen). Do not spray any liquid directly on the screen. We recommend a product called Klear Screen to remove the smudges and finger prints and dust. It is the only product we use here at the production facility.

Number 8
Do use your laptop on a flat hard surface. Underneath the laptop are two fans that keep your laptop running at the right temperature. Invest in an inexpensive device called a laptop cooler for extra protection from heat damage. We have a couple of really nice Coolers on our website.

Number 7
Do use an effective anti-virus/spyware protection program. Choose one that will not put a system drain on your PC. Our personal recommendation is of course Norman Security Suite.

Number 6
Do be patient when clicking away on the icons of your desktop. Your laptop is a high tech piece of equipment and needs a little bit of time to execute each command. You wouldn't dream of slamming on the brakes of your car, while stomping on the gas pedal, and shifting the gears all at the same time. Give each application time to complete before moving onto the next one. Keep in mind that your quick launch bar at the bottom of the screen only requires one click to launch an application. Double clicking on any of these icons can confuse your laptop causing unnecessary delays.

Number 5
Do use a carrying case that provides good protection for your laptop, such as the laptop bag you received with it.

Number 4
Do read your user manual. Even if you've owned a laptop before, each laptop has its own special tips and tricks. Your manual can help you make the most of your laptop. Most manufacturers have gone "green" by not printing a paper manual. You can usually locate your manual on the desktop and/or documents folder. If you don't see it there, insert your Drivers CD, and your manual is almost always on that CD (just don't start installing drivers when the CD opens).

Number 3
Do learn which side faces up on a USB connector. A lot of damage occurs when trying to force a USB into the slot when it's turned upside down. I've already said that each laptop has its own tips and tricks. Well, some laptops are designed with the USB ports actually upside down… you have to be careful and learn your specific laptop. But "why do they do that?", you might ask. Imagine all the little parts and pieces that go into that itty bitty living space inside a laptop. Sometimes, a laptop manufacturer installs the USB ports upside down, because it is the only way they can fit in an extra USB port or two. It's not as common today as it was a few years ago, but we still have to mention it. Also, check that the USB is not bent. Trying to insert a bent USB cable into your laptop can damage the laptop's USB receptor. As a general rule if it doesn't slide in easily, then don't force it. That goes for ALL the ports on your laptop!

Number 2
Do handle the DVD drawer with care. Extend the drawer slowly. When placing the CD/DVD onto the hub, always use your other hand to support the tray. Slowly push the tray back in until you hear the click. It should be a two handed process.

Number 1
Do run the Disk Defragmenter on a weekly basis. It's true after months or even years of adding software, photos, music, videos, documents, downloads, and other innumerable applications, you may notice your software does not have the responsiveness it once had. One way of keeping your notebook at its top performance speed is by defragmenting your software. This is a simple process that once initiated seeks out loose data and chunks of widespread information into more densely organized and tight-knit groups. This allows for faster and easier processing for your hard drive, and will enable other applications to run more smoothly. Defragmenting is important in the upkeep and health of your laptop.

All these "Do's" and "Don'ts" will go a long way to preserving the life of your laptop. However, please don't hesitate to call us when you are experiencing a problem. It is best to address any issues that come up right away. Letting it go will only create more problems and result in a more expensive repair. Like I said, we know accidents do happen despite the best of intentions. So don't be embarrassed to call when you spill your Coke or drop your laptop in the tub. And do rely on us to help you through any and all laptop trauma. That's what we are here for and yes we've done it too!

---

This is the most popular reason people call our technical support numbers. This is partially because there are a lot of first time laptop users out there and no one ever showed them how to use wireless technology. I would say the majority of the time the reason is that people fail to look in the user's manual they get with their laptops. Some laptops come with a book and others will find their manual on the drivers disc that is in the Ziplock bag they received with the Windows Disc and maybe a few other CD's. What you'll find is that every single model of laptop, whether a Quantum Computer or any other brand, the process of turning on your wireless card will be different with each model. Some have a toggle switch, while others have a hotkey next to the power button. Still others may be activated by pressing the FN key plus one of the function keys at the top of the keyboard. Don't worry if you have trouble actually figuring it out, it can be a little confusing. Unfortunately we have no control over how the manufacturers of the chassis make their designs, but we can help you should you not understand the manual....just give us a call during normal business hours and ask for technical support.

Many times people will call us and say that they had their IT guy, or networking professional tell them that the laptop has a bad wireless card. The truth is that most IT guys don't know very much about laptop designs. Mostly they know Desktop/tower computers and servers since that is the main focus of their work. For as long as we have been assembling laptops, we have never had a wireless card that failed....never. The truth is that if the card is actually turned on, and the computer actually can see the wireless network with good signal strength but cannot connect - then the problem isn't with the laptop, the problem is in the network. It has been proven every time. Sometimes the router or modem or both need to be reset. Sometimes the router has some internal settings that need to be changed. In either case, we have never had to replace a wireless card because it has failed.

We realize it can be frustrating when you can't get on the internet when you first get your laptop - or you can't get your email when you are traveling or when you go to a training event and can't seem to get connected. So if you need some assistance, please give us a call - we are getting pretty good at walking people through this process since it happens every day.

---

When you purchase a new printer, install the software that came with the printer first - before you plug in the printer. The software should prompt you when you should plug in and turn on the printer. Remember to check the list of printers for your computer to determine if it is set as the default printer. This will allow you to print on your new printer.

---

Try not to open too many programs while working on your computer. The more things that are open, the slower your system will run.

How many icons are down on the lower right side of your taskbar next to the clock? These reflect programs that are open or running. Too many background programs running at the same time may slow you down or cause conflicts with your Clasp Program...contact us for details. We will be publishing detailed information on this soon.

Are you using the internet? Are you "connected" to the internet even though you don't have a browser open? If so, then do you have virus protection installed on your computer? You should! Which Virus Protection software is the best? Here is our opinion: Norman Security Center. It is the only Virus Protection Software we recommend, sell, service and support. Why? Because we feel it is the best software available. It uses what they call Sandbox Technology. No other virus control software comes close to its technology except the ones that purchase Normans Sandbox to use in their own software. We have used several other software packages and Norman beats them all. You can purchase the software directly from Norman or you can get it from us. We offer Norman at discounted rates for all Health Practitioners. Nobody beats our software and nobody beats our prices on Norman. Norman actually works very well with your Biofeedback software; we've been using it since 2004 and have not seen a single conflict with anything except viruses and spyware...that is a very good record! Please call us for details. Oh, and if you are getting a free virus protection download from any other company, think about this...why does that company have a free version and a paid version? Because the free version isn't the whole program...it is bait for the paid version. We call that a marketing tactic that all software companies use. Do you really think you are protected with a free version of virus protection software? Please think again. In fact, when Norman offers a free trial of their software, they offer the full version for free on a 30 day trial...they don't give you a free "partial" version like all the others. Why would you trust a company that gives you a partial version that could allow you to get viruses during your trial of their software?? It doesn't make good sense does it? Please investigate Norman...you will not be disappointed - we guarantee it!

---

Keep your laptop out of extreme hot and cold temperatures, which could affect the performance of the PC. Laptops are especially vulnerable to heat. Do not leave your laptop in your car during hot summer months.

Having problems with something that you don't quite understand? Is it a software issue or a hardware issue? The majority of laptop computer issues are software or user related...always investigate the software before assuming it is a problem with the hardware. Usually you can find that if you recently installed a new printer or a virus protection program, they end up putting some kind of utility in the startup menu that may be causing a conflict. Sometimes someone recommends using a certain function or feature that is not really compatible with your software....it's a good idea to contact us before doing something that may be detrimental to your software setup. We encourage you to contact us before installing anything that may cause future problems. If we aren't familiar with that particular software, we can show you how to set a restore point and do a backup so your problems can easily be reversed if they occur. This can eliminate a lot of frustration for you. Unfortunately over 98% of the computer "problems" that arise are the result of something YOU did unknowingly. Rarely is it the fault of the computer. I know that sounds like a cop out, but it is true. Of the computers that were sent in here this year for repairs 98% were the fault of the user...not the hardware. We actually have a hardware failure rate in 2007 & 2008 of less than 1% of all the computers we have sold. That is a hard record to beat!

Are you getting a solid black screen when you boot the computer? Is your hard drive light slowly blinking? This may be happening because you recently ran your Error Checking function which is also known as Scan Disk or Disk checking. Just let your computer sit there with the black screen until the scan is complete and your computer will boot up. Sometimes it takes 30 minutes to an hour depending on the size of your hard drive. We recommend that you do not keep trying to turn on and off your computer trying to get it to boot. Just let it sit there and run its course. Some computers will show a black screen while others will have a blue screen that shows the details...not all computers are set up the same way - just because someone else's computer has a blue screen - it doesn't mean yours will! If you let the computer sit for an hour or two, and you still have the black screen - then it could be another problem. Please contact us for some assistance in this case.

---

Here is one setting that you can change to help make smaller text easier to read on your screen (Windows XP):

1. Right click on an open area on the desktop and click on "Properties".
2. Click the "Appearance" tab the click the "Effects" button.
3. Put a checkmark in the box next to "Use the following method to smooth edges of screen fonts", click the down arrow and select "Clear Type".
4. Click "ok", then click on Apply and OK on the Display Properties Window.
5. All Done!

Add a Second Monitor - The easiest way to do this is to plug your second monitor (or External Monitor) into the appropriate port on the side or back of your laptop. There are currently two kinds of ports for a monitor, VGA and DVI. The VGA port is usually a Blue connector with three rows of pin holes. The DVI port is usually white with 3 rows of pin holes with a "Plus" configuration on one side. Plug in your second monitor, Turn on the monitor first. Then turn on the Computer/Laptop. You must do it in this order! Now your computer should boot with a mirror image on both the Original and Second Monitors. Some Laptops/Notebooks will have a series of Function keys to press in order to toggle between screens. You may need to consult your computer manual if you do not see an image on both screens. If you still need help with this after consulting your manual, please call our technical support department for assistance.

If you want to extend your desktop onto the second monitor, follow these instructions: Right Click on Desktop, Left Click on Properties, Left Click on the Settings Tab, Left Click on the #2 Monitor (there should be a #1 Monitor and a #2 Monitor), then Check mark the "Extend my windows desktop onto this monitor", then Left Click Apply and Left Click OK to close Display Properties

When in the Clasp32, make sure your Bodyviewer can be adjusted to different sizes using your mouse. Then Click and Drag it all the way to the right. It will then appear or start to as you drag it on the second monitor. You can then adjust it to your liking.

---

Having trouble uninstalling your old virus protection? We aren't surprised. We see it every day. Contact us for assistance.

We highly recommend that EVERY computer have proper virus protection. Some of you might say that you are not going to use the computer on the internet. However, please be informed that the internet is not the only way you can get viruses! Please check out the information on our Norman Security Suite. There is a very important article at the lower portion of the page that describes what we feel is the proper viewpoint about virus protection. Please take the time to read the entire article, it is worth the time spent! Click Here.

---