TCS - Very Common Questions

Very Common Questions

by Bruce Carson
Tulsa Computer Society
From the October 1999 issue of the I/O Port Newsletter

Answers to Some Very Common Questions Among New Computer Users.

Q. When Windows starts up, why do other programs start running?

A. Because many Windows programs are designed to do that. They are called TSR's (Terminate & Stay Resident). They run in the background and are quickly available when needed. Unfortunately some are not removed even when no longer needed. Then you have to do some fine tuning, or have someone do it for you.

Q. I was told if computer keeps locking up: In "Run" type "msconfig" then go to "start up tab" and uncheck "scan Registry."

A. This is a trouble shooting technique that can be used to find a problem, but the Registry scan should not be left off permanently. Without monitoring the Registry may become corrupted and cause some serious problems.

Q. I would like to understand how a computer locks up when very little of hard disk is being used.

A. There is very little connection between computer lockups and available hard drive space. By far the largest number of hang-ups occur when two different programs are trying to occupy the same space in ram memory.

Q. I was told to go to "My Computer" control Panel, System Properties Performance should be 92%.

A. That is a nice goal, but not critical. Many computers have so many programs running that it is just not achievable.

Q. I was also told "Windows" can become "corrupt." In which case, just reload windows!!

A. Since Windows like all programs consists of millions of ones and zeroes, one of them will occasionally get accidentally changed from zero to one or vice versa. That can cause the whole program to become unstable. Reinstalling Windows over your existing installation will sometimes fix that and other problems.

Q. Can I delete all "Favorites" and just compile my own??

A. Yes

Q. Can I delete all the internet programs offering service I do not want?

A. Yes



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