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Michael's Computer Services
Computer Repair
Virus/Malware Removal
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Custom Built Computers
Networking & Internet Setup
Tutoring
Graphic Design
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Data Recovery
Negative & Slide Scanning
Michael's Computer Services
Office: 541-935-0255
Cell: 541-556-4612
Web Site
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Norton AntiVirus 2011
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Protection against viruses, spyware & more. In stock.

Norton AntiVirus 2010
October, 2010 :: In This Edition of eUpdate
  • Battery Backups or Uninterruptible Power Supply Devices
  • NEW! Parts Page on the Web Site
  • Windows 7 Tip :: Delete files using Disk Cleanup
  • Windows XP Tip :: Sort the All Programs menu alphabetically
  • Receive a 10% discount when you write a review!
Battery Backups or Uninterruptible Power Supply Devices

LightningAs we head into the stormy season in Oregon, I would like to write on the subject of electricity problems and how to properly protect your computer equipment.

We endure multiple storms that damage computer equipment, especially in the rural areas. Most computer users already protect their computer from power damage with a basic surge protector. However, most surge protectors do not provide adequate protection.

We commonly think of the typical sources of power problems; lightning, wind, fallen tree limbs, etc. However, some common household and office equipment can cause sudden voltage fluctuations. Vacuums, laser printers, air conditioners, space heaters, refrigerators and hair dryers to name a few.

How a basic surge protector works

APC SurgeArrest PersonalSurge protectors have a built in circuit breaker that trips when there is a voltage increase, breaking the flow of power. Surge protectors are rated in joules (pronounced jewels). This rating indicates how much energy or increased voltage it can absorb before it is damaged. A higher number indicates greater protection.

Why a basic surge protector is inadequate

When the breaker trips during a surge, the computer suddenly loses power, which can result in program and file corruptions. Depending on where the corruption is, important information may be affected. They also don't protect against brownouts or blackouts. More common then surges, brownouts (i.e. dimming lights) are potentially deadly to computer equipment due to the effect low voltage has on electronics. Blackouts are also a threat as they have the same potential risks described above since the computer loses power.

The best protection for your computer

APC ES550The best solution is to replace your basic surge protector with one that has a built in battery backup system. These units keep your computer safe from any power event. They have smart circuitry that detects voltage fluctuations and immediately switches the computer to battery power for the duration of the event. If the power is completely out and doesn't come back on within a few minutes, the batter gives you enough time to save your work and properly shut down the machine. If you are away from the computer at the time, the battery unit will automatically hibernate the system (a shutdown setting that saves any currently open work).

The bottom line is that a battery backup provides continuous, clean and stable power. Clean power can potentially increase the long term reliability of your computer and safeguard against potential data loss due to corruption.

I recommend and carry the APC brand of battery backup units. They offer top-of-the-line products for all power needs. Many models also provide protection for your phone and cable TV lines, which are susceptible to surges too. If you are interested in protecting your computer equiptment from the constant threat of power outages and lost data, please contact me.
NEW! Parts Page on the Web Site

View currently available parts and software prices on my web site at: http://michaelscomputerservices.com/repair/parts.php
Windows 7 Tip :: Delete files using Disk Cleanup
Microsoft Windows 7 LogoView the full video tutorial

If you want to reduce the number of unnecessary files on your hard disk to free up disk space and help your computer run faster, use Disk Cleanup. It removes temporary files, empties the Recycle Bin, and removes a variety of system files and other items that you no longer need.

The following procedure cleans up files associated with your user account.

1. Open Disk Cleanup by clicking the Start button. In the search box, type Disk Cleanup, and then, in the list of results, click Disk Cleanup.

2. In the Drives list, click the hard disk drive that you want to clean up, and then click OK.

3. In the Disk Cleanup dialog box, on the Disk Cleanup tab, select the check boxes for the file types that you want to delete, and then click OK.

4. In the message that appears, click Delete files.
Windows XP Tip :: Sort the All Programs menu alphabetically
Microsoft Windows XP LogoView the full tutorial

Finding programs on your All Programs menu can become difficult if you have a lot of programs installed. When you install new programs, Microsoft Windows XP adds each new item to the end of the All Programs menu. You can, however, quickly sort the items on your All Programs menu in alphabetical order.

To sort items on your All Programs menu alphabetically

1. Click Start, click All Programs, and then right-click any folder or icon.

2. On the shortcut menu, click Sort by Name.

That's it—your programs are instantly alphabetized. Enjoy your newly organized All Programs menu.

This same tip works for your Favorites menu in Internet Explorer. In both cases, you'll probably need to go back periodically and sort the lists again, because Windows XP doesn't automatically keep the list in alphabetical order.
Receive a 10% discount when you write a review!

Thank you to the customers who stepped up and wrote glowing reviews! They have been duly rewarded with their well deserved 10% discount coupons. I am still looking for more reviews to help grow my business, so now is the time to let the world know about your experience at Michael's Computer Services!

Write a review of Michael's Computer Services on one or more of the following web sites and receive 10% off on up to two hours of labor!

Google Places Facebook Yahoo Local Bing Local

To receive your 10% discount coupon, post a review at one of the above web sites. Then send an email to michael@michaelscomputerservices.com with the site you wrote it on and the name you used. Once the review is verified you will receive an email containing your discount coupon.

Coupon expires 6 months from issue date. Discount valid for labor on one invoice/visit. Total discount cannot exceed a value of $12.

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