Tech Questions & Answers Archives - Page 158 of 259

Q&A: How can I prevent Windows Update from automatically updating my computer’s hardware drivers?

Posted on June 25, 2020

Question from Paul: Back in 2013 I bought a custom built gaming PC from a guy I knew back then.

I’ve since lost contact with him (I think he moved out of state) and I can no longer ask him for help with things like this.

Anyway, this machine came with Windows 7 on it but I updated it to Windows 10 after Microsoft abandoned Windows 7.

Windows 10 works great on it, but ever since I installed Windows 10 the Windows Updates have been automatically installing new hardware drivers that keep causing the system to crash.

After almost every Windows Update is installed I have to manually reinstall the original hardware drivers from the CD to get the computer to stop crashing (glad I still have that CD!).

Is there any way to prevent Windows 10 from updating the hardware drivers every time it downloads and installs new updates to Windows? This is really frustrating!

Rick’s answer: [Read more…]

Q&A: Why is my MacBook resetting the volume and screen resolution when I shut it down?

Posted on June 24, 2020

Question from Elizabeth: I’m having a problem with my MacBook, Rick. It just started last week.

Every time I shut it down the screen resolution is wrong and the volume is at full blast after I start it up again.

Do you know what’s causing this? Thanks in advance.

Rick’s answer: [Read more…]

Q&A: How expensive is it to have a bad audio connector replaced on a laptop?

Posted on June 17, 2020

Note: The links in this post are affiliate links.

Question from MaryAnne G.: I’m hoping you can answer a question for me. How much will a computer shop charge me to replace the audio connector on my three year old Lenovo laptop?

I use headphones a LOT when I’m watching videos and the connector has become wallowed out and I can’t seem to get a good connection anymore when I plug the headphones in.

I know it’s the connector on the laptop that’s bad because it does the same thing with a brand new pair of headphones. Ans I can feel the connector wiggle with the slightest touch.

If it’s gonna cost more than $40 to $50 I think I’d rather just buy a new laptop. If you can give me a rough estimate that’ll help me decide what to do. Thanks.

Rick’s answer: [Read more…]