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Computer Problems: Hard Drive Crashes

Computers are pieces of equipment that after using them for a number of years they start to become worn and overworked. When this happens it can lead to a number of problems for the computer user. The most common type of computer problem that happens as a result of age is the dreaded hard drive crash. If you have experienced a hard drive crash or believe that your computer is about to experience one it is important to make sure that you prepare for the worst. Here is what you can do to repair your computer after a hard drive crash.

Run a Virus Scan. If you notice that there are symptoms of a hard drive crash coming such as loud noises, clicking sounds or blue screens it is important to try to prevent it. Since the most common cause of hard drive crashes is a computer virus try to run a scan for a computer virus. Once the virus is removed it could prevent any data from being lost and could prevent the hard drive from crashing.

Restart the Computer. Some hard drive crashers are only tiny problems. These problems are easily solved by shutting off the computer and turning it back on after a few minutes. This will prevent the loss of data and could stop a hard drive crash.

Reinstall. Should you experience a complete system crash you will need to repair the hard drive. Once this has been done you can rebuild your computer from scratch. You will use a system restore disc and reinstall all the elements of the computer as if it were brand new.

Filed Under: Computers, General Tagged With: , ,

Computer Tips: Upgrading the RAM on Your Computer

Computers, the Internet and the software that runs on computers are always advancing. This means that the computer that you purchased a year or two ago might be outdated in terms of how much RAM is available. Computers users are recommended to install more RAM in order to keep up with the ever changing world of the Internet and various computer programs that require a high amount of RAM. A high amount of RAM is required to run several different applications and website at one time.

Upgrading to more RAM does not have to be something that only a professional can do. You can easily upgrade the RAM on your computer. Here is how it is done.

Step 1. Purchase the RAM from a local computer supply store. It is important to make sure that you purchase a RAM that is similar in configuration and size as the one that your original computer had.

Step 2. Shut down the computer completely. However, do not remove it from the power supply. When this is complete remove the computer cover so that you have access to the inside of the computer.

Step 3. You will want to ground your computer so that nothing happens to it or you have any electrical problems. Grounding can be done through grounding equipment like antistatic wristband.

Step 4. There might be cards or items in the way inside your computer. Remove anything that might be in the way of you installing the RAM.

Step 5. Read all instructions that came with the new RAM. Most will include a step by step guide that you can follow. It is important to figure out if you will need to install a SIMM, single in-line memory module or a DIMM, dual in-line memory module.

Step 6. Place the RAM into the computer. It is important to make sure that you do not interfere with the pins or slots that come with the RAM. Depending upon the type of RAM that you have it will go parallel or perpendicular. You will feel the RAM lock into place and you have completed the project.

Filed Under: Computers, General Tagged With: Components, DIMM, , , Random-access memory