Computer Tips Archives - Page 139 of 230

How to force Windows 10 to show file extensions in File Explorer

Posted on July 18, 2021

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For whatever reason, the folks at Microsoft have decided it’s a good idea to hide file extensions when using the File Explorer dialog in Windows 10.

I really don’t understand the thinking behind having file extensions hidden since they’re so useful for quickly determining a file’s type when viewing its filename.

In case you’re wondering how viewing a file’s extension can help you, here’s a great example (and it’s an important one).

Luckily, it’s very easy to force Windows 10 to display the file extensions when you view the names of files in File Explorer. Here’s how: [Read more…]

Q&A: How can I reset the password on a hand-me-down PC?

Posted on July 13, 2021

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Question from Ben: My aunt recently sold her house and moved to another state.

Before she left she gave us a used, but working Acer Aspire U5710 computer with Windows 10 on it.

She said she didn’t want to pack it up and move it because she was wanting to buy a new computer anyway.

I tried setting it up for my daughter to use but it’s asking for a password. I don’t know the password and the one my aunt gave me doesn’t work.

Is there any way to reset the password on this computer? [Read more…]

Should you completely drain your laptop’s battery before recharging it?

Posted on July 13, 2021

Rick’s Tech Tips Newsletter

I’m often asked whether laptop batteries need to be drained completely before recharging them.

My answer? Well, it depends on the type of battery that it uses.

Early laptops used nickel-cadmium (NiCad) batteries which were subject to a “memory effect”.

If NiCads weren’t allowed to discharge all the way before being recharged they would eventually “remember” the level of charge they fell to before recharging and act as if they were completely drained every time their charge decreased to that level. [Read more…]

Move the Windows Taskbar to take full advantage of your wide-screen monitor

Posted on June 28, 2021

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Today’s wide-screen monitors are great because they allow us to view more info on the screen with less scrolling.

However, that advantage is primarily horizontal, not vertical.

One simple change will allow you to take full advantage of your wide-screen monitor…

[Read more…]

Q&A: Should I use a liquid CPU cooler in the PC I’m planning to build?

Posted on June 28, 2021

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Question from Daniel: Hi Rick. I have a question about computer hardware.

I’m in the process of ordering parts to build a new computer.

I’ve always wanted to build one from scratch just for the experience and the satisfaction of knowing I was successful at it.

The thing is, I want make sure I really will be successful at it, which brings me to my question.

Is it safe to use a liquid CPU cooling system in a home-built computer? [Read more…]