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Windows power options and hibernate

The hibernate power option for Windows if useful for those who want to turn their computer off and on quickly. Earlier today we discussed the usefulness of using the log on feature and yesterday we covered the stand by feature. Rounding out our discussion of power down options will be hibernation. Hibernate Starting with Windows 2000, you have the option to “hibernate” your computer rather than use the turn off function. Hibernate allows you to save the current state of your desktop, including all open programs, before turning off the computer. When you turn your computer back on, your desktop … Continue reading →

Windows power options and logging off

There are various ways to power down a Windows based computer. Each one serves a different purpose. Yesterday, we reviewed the “stand by” power option. Today, we’ll discuss the log-off feature before later covering the “hibernate” function. As with yesterday’s blog, I’ll use screenshots from Windows XP Professional. Power off options When you click to shut down your computer, you most likely see a screen like the one below. Yesterday we covered the “Stand By” option. “Turn off” does just like it says–it turns off the computer. All data from the memory are cleared and the operating system shuts down … Continue reading →

Windows power down options

Turning off and booting up your computer has never been this much fun. Well, maybe fun isn’t the best word, but there are ways that you can speed up turning off and on your computer. The Windows operating system has various different power options to help you optimize your computer use. Today, I’ll review the stand by option. Tomorrow I’ll review the other power options including a feature called “hibernate.” All screenshots are from Windows XP Professional, but the concepts are similar for Windows 2000 and Windows XP Home. Power down options When you go to turn off your computer, … Continue reading →

Design with Legos

This has got to be one of the best free software programs out there! Read on to learn all about it, including where you can get your own copy. My oldest son is crazy about Legos. He can spend hours designing and building creations. Little block people with yellow heads get to drive sleek vehicles such as a laser-powered space ship, or fortify themselves behind elaborate high tech fortresses. Sometimes his visions are so complicated that he attempts to put them down on paper first. That is why I know that this free software program will have him jumping up … Continue reading →

Cruise Ship Cabins—Whose Is Best?

Years ago if you were to ask me if it was worth spending extra money to upgrade from a standard inside stateroom to a deluxe cabin, I would have rolled my eyes and probably muttered something like: “Why pay more on a place you aren’t going to spend much time in?” My tune has changed since having a child because now I am spending more time in that “place.” (Gone are the days of 8-hour shore excursions and 7-hour power tan sessions.) Before deciding on the type of cabin you should book on your next cruise I would highly recommend … Continue reading →

Computer Scrapbooking (2)

When getting into computer or digital scrapbooking, there are some things you need beyond what I discussed in this article. You are also in need of some good software, so here are some tips on finding the software that is right for you, and your needs. We are scrapbookers, so an important features we are looking for are clip art programs, font programs, photo editing software, digital scrapbooking software and probably a good text editor. For Clip Art Programs: Creating Keepsakes has some great computer clip art! You can purchase it in CD format and they typically come mixed with … Continue reading →

Resizing Photos for Online Use

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I’m spending most of today resizing some photos for upload to a photo-sharing site. Just thought I’d pass some resizing tips on to the rest of you. If you need to resize a bunch of photos, make sure they are all going the same direction. In other words, put all your horizontal photos into one folder, and all your vertical photos in another. That way, when you resize everything, they won’t end up being all distorted. So, how do you go about resizing photos? If you use Photoshop Elements, or Photoshop, look under the file menu for “automate > batch…” … Continue reading →

Making text easier to read on your monitor

Operating System Required: Windows XP In one of my earlier blog entries I discussed computer eye strain and some simple and easy ways to help reduce it. This will help prevent sore eyes, headaches, and the aching neck and backs associated with prolonged computer usage. Today I will be helping the families.com readers who have both Windows XP as their operating system and use a LCD monitor. If you have a CRT monitor (Cathode Ray Tube, the “TV” type) this may help you a little but this is mainly for Flat Panel and laptop displays. Microsoft provides us with ClearType … Continue reading →

Saving energy with your computer – Energy Star recommendations

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Earlier we discussed if turning off your computer every night is necessary and whether or not your hard drive will wear out by turning your computer on and off. To conclude, we’ll now cover some recommendations from Energy Star about turning off your computer. Energy Star recommendations You may have seen the logo for Energy Star when you turn your computer or if you have purchased a refrigerator or washer and dryer in recent years. Energy Star is a program that labels products according to their energy consumption and is maintained by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Below, … Continue reading →

Should I turn my computer off overnight?

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Earlier today we talked about how turning on and off your computer daily will not ruin your hard disk drive. For those more concerned about saving energy than about hard drive failure, I’ll address the question of turning off your computer each night versus leaving it on all of the time. Should I turn my computer off each night or can I leave it on? The simple answer is that it’s really up to you. Businesses often leave their computers running all of the time and never turn them off unless something goes wrong. This line of thought is usually … Continue reading →