Computer Hard Drive Recovery Disks

Many, if not most, new computers these days do not come with installation or recovery disks.

They have a dedicated partition where these files are stored, including system drivers and some programs. Manufacturers include Toshiba, Hewlett Packard (HP) and Acer.

One of the first things you should do is to create recovery disks from this partition, in case of a hard disk failure. This process typically requires 2 DVDs. Many manufacturers only allow this to be done once, such as HP. Typically this takes up to two blank DVDs. These partitions are all well and good if you can still boot into your system and then you can run the recovery routine. If however you cannot boot into Windows you will need these recovery disks – booting from your CD/DVD drive to enter Windows to either repair the specific problem, do a hard drive recovery or completely reinstall Windows.

Like all backups it is only if you have a problem that having taken the time and trouble to make these DVDs in advance will reduce any heart palpitations that might otherwise have ensued.

When customers purchase a new computer from GJ’s Computer Services, Geejay creates these recovery disks for you or shows you how to do it.

Extended Warranties – Should you?

I am often asked by customers who purchase computers via GJ’s Computer Services or whom are seeling advice whether they should pay for an extended warranty on their new equipment.

Anyone who has purchased a computer from a retail store will have received the sales pitch that they should take out an extended warranty.

Generally, all computers come with a standard one-year manufacturers warranty. In purchasing a new computer you are expecting it to last for at least three years. So is an extended warranty a worthwhile investment? Like any insurance, you are spending money today on an outcome that may never eventuate.

Many experts suggest that if some fault (minor or major) is to occur it is most likely to occur during the first year (i.e. during the manufacturers warranty) or after the third year. In my experience this is to abitrary. A computer fault or breakdown can occur at any time. For example, many years ago I bought a new Dell Desktop. The had disk failed in three months. Parts of computers that often need replacing are motherboards and fans.

It is my considered opinion and advice that purchasers of new computers do spend the extra and take out the extended warranty. If something does go wrong and requires a technician to visit your premises (if the extended warranty covers on site service) and replace a faulty part you will be very happy that you spent the money at the time. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the value of the equipment purchased and if you are confident in the outlet offerring the extended warraanty.

As always happy computing.

I am always happy to receive any comments and answer any questions you have.

Geejay 

The New Labor Federal Government $2.3 Billion Education Tax Refund

With the recent election victory of the Rudd Labor Government, the Labor Party’s so-called “education revolution” is going to mean significant changes to computers and technology in the home as well as faster broadband services throughout Australia.

Once the rollout begins every family with school students is going to be eligible for a tax refund to meet expenses for: 

• “Laptops;
• Home computer and associated costs;
• Home internet connection;
• Printers;
• Education software; and
• School text books.”

There will undoubtedly be many ‘education‘ type deals offered by computer retailers in the coming months and years ahead specifically targeting sales of these items. Computer, broadband and other software and hardware items’ sales will likely significantly increase.

GJ’s Computer Services should be contacted for recommendations and advice prior to making any such purchases. Further, we regularly purchase desktops and notebook computers for customers at competitive prices.

If you purchase a new computer through GJ’s Computer Services, we will offer the setup of your equipment at no cost. If you or your child require training and coaching we will offer a special education discount for a minimum of 10 lessons.

More information will be released to the public over the next few months. For the moment further information regarding Labor’s “Education Tax Refund” can be found at http://www.alp.org.au/media/1007/msedutlootre180.php.

Happy Computing.

Geejay

There is so much to discover about Computers and the Internet

As someone who has long been fascinated with technology and the Internet I have discovered and been shown many interesting things over the years.

These discoveries are nothing unless they are shared. As someone who likes to play with technology (including using new gadgets, and exploring new and interesting websites and applications), this Blog is one area where I try to share years of accumulated knowledge. Importantly, I like everyone else is constantly learning, discovering, and improving my own skills.

The harsh reality of the Internet is that it is forever evolving. As a dynamic technology it is nigh impossible to keep abreast of everything that is going on or available. Further, many computer users are never shown properly how to get the most from their computers and how best to access what they need from the Internet, without wasting precious hours. Most new computer users or people accessing the Internet for the first time are often at first baffled and confused. Then once they become reasonably comfortable with the technology typically they aimlessly search the Internet, email jokes to friends and family and play computer games. However, after a time people tire of such activities and start to focus on their own particular needs and interests. And if they are shown properly how such outcomes can be achieved they then become both more productive and confident users of the available technology and able to share their knowledge with others.

If you have questions why not drop me a Comment on this Blog, or via email. Why not share your own discoveries here too. Or ask questions. And if I am unable to answer them immediately, I will research the topic and get back to you.