Most computer users have a tendency to turn off their computers when away on trips, which means you're not getting newly-released anti-virus patches or anti-spyware updates; the two most common areas that cause computers problems. We recommend you update anti-virus and anti-spyware scans before opening e-mail or going online after an extended absence.
We consistently see an increase in calls for virus related problems immediately following long weekends. Avoid the problems altogether by updating your security software before using your computer. For a free listing of viruses, spyware threats and trends, visit: www.VisitingGeeks.com/downloads.htm
#2 -- Should You Leave Your Computer Running? One question we hear frequently is, "Should I leave my desktop computer on or turn it off?"
There are 2 schools of thought? Turning it on and off numerous times during the day subjects the microcircuits to flexing and fatigue due to change in temperatures. Over time this could lead to a break in the circuitry and result in system failure.
Leaving the computer on all the time puts excess wear on the mechanical components (the hard drive spindle motor and cooling fans).
Best compromise. First user in the morning turns it on; last user turns it off.
We leave our desktops on all the time allowing for scheduled utility tasks to run during overnight hours. We also restart the systems (to flush the RAM and reset the operating system) on a regular basis and routinely remove the case covers to clean out any dust that may have accumulated, especially around the fans and screens.
#3 -- Stop Pop ups! Never click inside the window of a popup. Instead, close it by clicking on the X in the upper right corner. Many people are fooled into installing spyware applications by pop ups that promise to clean their system. If you receive a message saying it can help, assume it is spyware and don't click!
However, there are many little tips that can turn your TiVo into a much more efficient mechanism. Plus you can do all of this from your remote control.
The goal of this article is to give you some basic tips to run your TiVo a little better from your remote control.
To Check the Time: Press Select, Play, Select, 9, Select
To Have the Progress Bar fade away faster: Select, Play, Select, Pause, Select
There are also some navigation shortcuts I would like to share with you. These will allow to move around more quickly.
From the TiVo Central Screen you can do the following
0 = Show the TiVo cartoon introduction
1 = Season Pass Manager
2 = To Do List
3 = Search Using Wishlists
4 = Search By Title
5 = Browse By Channel
6 = Browse By Time
7 = Record Time/Channel
8 = TiVo's Suggestions
9 = Showcases
TiVo = Now Playing
The 30 Second Skip: The advance button that normally brings you to the end of a recorded programs will become the "30 Second Skip Button. While viewing a recorded programs or live television enter the following; Select, Play, Select, 3, 0, Select.
You will know that your TiVo has updated if you hear three "Thumbs Up" chimes in a row. You should be aware that if your TiVo has to reboot for any reason, you will have to perform this task over again as it is not permanent.
Sorting your "Now Playing" List. (You will need to be on the TiVo Central Screen)
S = Slow Play Button
0 = Zero Button
R = Record Button
T = Thumbs Up button
If this is successful, you will hear again the three "Thumbs Up" chimes. You can then press Enter and see the following;
1 = Newest
2 = Display the list ordered by expiration date (oldest will be first)
3 = Display the list alphabetically
Press 1, 2, or 3 to try out a sorting order. When you press enter, you will make that selection permanent
Change Your TiVo Banner
When you're watching live television, you can press the RIGHT ARROW button to move through the different TiVO banners.
Both Kashish Mittal & Timothy Cashman are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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