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Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance

detron · 402 · 62154

us Offline detron

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Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
on: September 24, 2013, 08:28:03 PM
Hey MT.O

as I have snippets of knowledge with how-to's about computer maintenance  or repair, I will post them here.  It is a great feeling to fix a computer problem without having to take it in, or spend you MT/SAK money on it  :rofl: so I cannot promise these will solve your problem, but it is a free starting point.


good luck everyone, and feel free to ping me for more info.

if it it easier for you, use my email address    detron.phillips@gmail.com   start the subject line with MT.O so I know not to ignore it.

If I can help, let me know 


us Offline detron

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #1 on: September 24, 2013, 08:32:59 PM
If Windows is infected, try scanning without Windows running

I realize malware is a huge problem these days, and getting rid of it can be a nightmare if you are not sure what you need to do.

here are some options

http://blogs.technet.com/b/security/archive/2012/09/19/microsoft-s-free-security-tools-windows-defender-offline.aspx

this is Microsoft's scanner on a bootable CD.  some malware cannot be removed while Windows is running, not to mention some rootkits hide the malware from scanners.
If we do not turn Windows on, then we have a better chance of resolving the issue.

there are other bootable CDs that can help, but this one is very simple for a novice to use, and I have seen it completely fix a few issues before.  it is a good starting point, and I recommend if you only have one computer, make a CD now! and file it away.

this simple task could save a trip to a repair shop, when all they will do is charge you a bunch of money and do a similar simple fix
If I can help, let me know 


us Offline Monrogue

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #2 on: September 24, 2013, 08:41:39 PM
This is very cool of you Detron :salute:  Thanks a bunch, and I have bookmarked this thread in case I need it in the future :tu:
K-Tibbs


ca Offline jzmtl

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #3 on: September 24, 2013, 10:17:04 PM
An old trick that can prevent a lot of malware problem but nobody bother to use is do your daily work on a limited user account, use the admin account only for install stuff and adjust system settings.


us Offline detron

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #4 on: September 24, 2013, 11:18:47 PM
An old trick that can prevent a lot of malware problem but nobody bother to use is do your daily work on a limited user account, use the admin account only for install stuff and adjust system settings.

Very true,  especially on Linux this help a lot on Windows,  but Windows has a bad habit of allowing things to run with service rights regardless of user account level.   They may have fixed most of these,  but just a warning

Sent from my SPH-L720 using Tapatalk 2

If I can help, let me know 


us Offline Aloha

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #5 on: September 25, 2013, 12:41:58 AM
great stuff Detron thanks a bunch. 
Esse Quam Videri


us Offline sir_mike

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #6 on: September 25, 2013, 01:10:10 AM
That is nice of you to post this stuff, detron   :salute:

I use Windows, Mac's and sometimes Linux to surf on! I usually get frustrated in linux when I try to do something and it wont let me so I will put linux away for a long while then try it again til I get frustrated again and so on.  It is a vicious cycle with me and linux! LOL


us Offline detron

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #7 on: September 25, 2013, 02:18:44 AM
The minimalistic SAK of  repair/maintenance

http://partedmagic.com/doku.php 

Parted Magic is a must have  (get it before your PC breaks, file it away)


this is a bootable Linux based distro, but anyone can use it, you do not have to know linux.

this distro can read windows drives, scan for viruses, resize partitions, and several other things, but can also browse the internet with Firefox.

This distro does not use your hard drive, so even if it is dead, or missing, this will boot up and work!

If you windows is stuck blue-screening, boot to this and copy your important files over to a flash drive or external hard drive before trying to fix windows.

Even though Windows these days can resize a partition without loosing data, Windows does not like to move certain files, and sometime this means that 500Gig drive you wanted to be Windows 80Gig, and 420 Gig as non Windows storage, the best you are able to do is 240 for Windows  :bnghd:
well boot up Parted Magic and do it there.

Think you have a virus, already ran the other tool I listed? ( http://blogs.technet.com/...ows-defender-offline.aspx)  boot Parted magic up and launch Clam Antivirus, it can even download updates from the internet.

Here are some screenshots, they actually speak for themselves.
http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=screenshots

If you computer hard drive or Windows dies and you cannot use your computer to go online and reseach a fix, or order parts,  once again, boot this up and use firefox.

there are more features, but you get the idea.

this is an open source Linux Distribution, that is updated quite regularly.
If I can help, let me know 


us Offline detron

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #8 on: September 25, 2013, 02:49:30 AM
Windows password forgotten? no one knows an admin logon?

Ok, passwords can be forgotten, accounts can become locked out, or a machine can be a gift and you REALLY do not want to rebuild from scratch.

so go grab the NT Offline Password and registry editor
http://pogostick.net/~pnh/ntpasswd/

OK, this is command line only, but does get the job done.

and is only a 3Meg download!

here is a youtube guide to simplify the instructions.

How to clear Windows user account password using "Offline NT Password and Registry Editor"

this can blank a password, add a new user, add a new admin, promote a user to an admin, and unlock disabled accounts
enjoy, and I have used this program HUNDREDS of times, one day it will save your life!
If I can help, let me know 


us Offline detron

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #9 on: September 25, 2013, 06:13:48 AM
Got an old computer you are not using, Turn it into a Network Attached Storage Device

Do you have a spare computer, even if it is somewhat older?  A 10 year old desktop can be easily turned into a network attached storage that you can backup your files to.

http://www.freenas.org/

I have one of these at home, and it is very nice to access your files from any computer in the house.

this is a little daunting to install, but it really is not that bad.  there are plenty of resources on the site to help you out, and once you get it running, you can manage it from a web browser on any other computer, just like managing your home router.

Once again, this is open source, so a great community of people who work together to make this, and improve it.
If I can help, let me know 


us Offline detron

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #10 on: September 25, 2013, 06:34:05 AM
Got a new computer, or just finished reloading Windows?

We all know how long it can take to get all of your applications installed again on a new computer, or a reloaded old computer.

well, here is a huge time saver http://ninite.com/

NASA and Harvard Medical school use this, so it is not just some infected trojan horse.

you simply go to the site, check off all the programs you want installed, and it makes a custom installer that will be downloaded ~1M.  you then run this and go do other important things while all of your selected applications are installed.
If I can help, let me know 


us Offline detron

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #11 on: September 25, 2013, 06:43:41 AM
Want a Free Program that greatly helps keep Several Windows issues in Check?

If you run Windows, you know that issues come with the territory.  (Which is why I love my Linux!)

Check out Glary's Utilities  http://www.glarysoft.com/

Malware scanner, registry cleaner, System tweaks, and a load more, all 100% free.  there is a pro version, and if you are considering it, there is a 30 day free trial.

If I can help, let me know 


us Offline detron

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #12 on: September 25, 2013, 07:39:57 AM
we are use to hierarchical file management, but now manage by Date!!

ever wonder which files you worked on last thursday, or know that when you downloaded that picture, you closed a spreadsheet, and cannot find it, or remember the name?

want to see what files you worked on on what days?

check out Nemo http://www.nemo-docs.com/
If I can help, let me know 


us Offline detron

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #13 on: September 25, 2013, 08:09:53 AM
Want Microsoft Project, but not willing to pay that price?

then check out ProjectLibre  http://www.projectlibre.org/




here is a bit of positive press  http://www.projectlibre.org/blog/computerworld-names-projectlibre-one-exciting-new-open-source-projects
If I can help, let me know 


us Offline detron

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #14 on: September 25, 2013, 08:21:12 AM
Want to Build a new computer and want to make sure all parts are compatible and you all the parts at the cheapest price?

Great!  check out http://pcpartpicker.com/

this site filters parts to only what is compatible, and checks prices from multiple sites for best price (in US at least, cannot speak for other locations)

You can also save builds, and check it one a week or so and see if the price has gone up or down.  it will map out the price of your parts as a set over time so you can see if the price is currently high or low.
« Last Edit: September 25, 2013, 08:31:29 AM by detron »
If I can help, let me know 


fr Offline Whoey

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #15 on: September 25, 2013, 11:10:27 AM
Got a new computer, or just finished reloading Windows?

We all know how long it can take to get all of your applications installed again on a new computer, or a reloaded old computer.

well, here is a huge time saver http://ninite.com/

NASA and Harvard Medical school use this, so it is not just some infected trojan horse.

you simply go to the site, check off all the programs you want installed, and it makes a custom installer that will be downloaded ~1M.  you then run this and go do other important things while all of your selected applications are installed.

I use this on some PCs I maintain, like my Inlaws. It's also handy to keep the Ninite install as you can run it from time to time and it will check and update any of the programs it's setup to install (and ignore the ones that are already updated).
The difficult we do immediately, the impossible takes a little longer.


ca Offline derekmac

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #16 on: September 25, 2013, 12:33:18 PM
This is an awesome thread that can definitely hope a lot of people.  Thanks detron for putting all this together for us!  :tu:

I know this isn't MT related, but it contains invaluable information and could do well as a sticky.


us Offline detron

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #17 on: September 25, 2013, 04:47:52 PM
This is an awesome thread that can definitely hope a lot of people.  Thanks detron for putting all this together for us!  :tu:

I know this isn't MT related, but it contains invaluable information and could do well as a sticky.

I would say it can be MT related,  ask Sawman.  He might have been absent from MT.O while getting his computer fixed.   Also computer repairs eat in to MT and SAK budget,  so maybe this thread will help on some problems enough that less is spent on repair,   leaving more for MTs and SAKs.

Sent from my SPH-L720 using Tapatalk 2

If I can help, let me know 


us Offline Monrogue

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #18 on: September 25, 2013, 05:19:51 PM
This is an awesome thread that can definitely hope a lot of people.  Thanks detron for putting all this together for us!  :tu:

I know this isn't MT related, but it contains invaluable information and could do well as a sticky.

I would say it can be MT related,  ask Sawman.  He might have been absent from MT.O while getting his computer fixed.   Also computer repairs eat in to MT and SAK budget,  so maybe this thread will help on some problems enough that less is spent on repair,   leaving more for MTs and SAKs.

Sent from my SPH-L720 using Tapatalk 2

+1  Good point Detron :tu:
K-Tibbs


fi Offline AlephZero

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #19 on: September 25, 2013, 08:50:27 PM
I'd like to share this...

http://www.osalt.com/

Open source alternatives for commercial software
"Hoarder of weirdness,
Always posting random things,
I'm AlephZero" :ninja:


us Offline detron

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #20 on: September 25, 2013, 08:54:03 PM
I'd like to share this...

http://www.osalt.com/

Open source alternatives for commercial software

Thanks aleph,  I was trying to figure out how to write this one up,   since I am huge on open source.
  I think you nailed it with a simple link.

Appreciate the help


Sent from my SPH-L720 using Tapatalk 2

If I can help, let me know 


us Offline sir_mike

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #21 on: September 25, 2013, 08:58:08 PM
I'd like to share this...

http://www.osalt.com/

Open source alternatives for commercial software

I always look for open source software when I have a specific task that I am trying to do!  Love it! :D


us Offline detron

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #22 on: September 26, 2013, 06:36:46 AM
need a video security system?

check out ZoneMinder http://www.zoneminder.com/

this is a great use of Linux that has received great reviews.  supports PTZ cameras and web management.  you can even select zones within your camera's view to monitor. 
for example if you have a sidewalk , you can ignore people there, but once they step onto your lawn they are now an event.





If I can help, let me know 


us Offline detron

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #23 on: September 26, 2013, 07:02:56 AM
Want a 3D printer but do not want to spend more than $100?

Do you want a 3D printer (just for SAK scales?  :rofl:) but the cost is way too high?

check this project out.  NOT AVAILABLE YET, but something to keep an eye out for.
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/117421627/the-peachy-printer-the-first-100-3d-printer-and-sc

be sure to watch this video!  it explains why this is amazing AND cheap at the same time.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=80HsW4HmUes

I know I want one!
If I can help, let me know 


fr Offline Whoey

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #24 on: September 26, 2013, 11:29:48 AM
I'd like to share this...

http://www.osalt.com/

Open source alternatives for commercial software
Interesting site... although I primarily run on Ubuntu I like having open source apps I can use on both win/ubuntu.
The difficult we do immediately, the impossible takes a little longer.


fi Offline AlephZero

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #25 on: September 26, 2013, 02:48:13 PM
You're welcome, guys!

That's where I usually look first when I need something... ;)
"Hoarder of weirdness,
Always posting random things,
I'm AlephZero" :ninja:


us Offline detron

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #26 on: September 27, 2013, 03:19:19 PM
New to Linux and want a Distro that has loads of stuff already installed?

this distro is great for new users, as so many tools are already installed and configured.

I used it years ago, but prefer to compile the tools I need instead of a monolithic approach like this.  however, if you want to just boot and go, this is a great choice to play with and see what all is possible, then decide if you like Linux or not.

http://ultimateedition.info/ultimate-edition/ultimate-edition-3-5/

If I can help, let me know 


us Offline detron

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #27 on: September 27, 2013, 04:09:26 PM
If you have specific questions, feel free to ask here, I have the Notify option on for this thread

if you have a specific question, feel free to ask it here.  I will answer it if I can, and if I cannot, I should be able to point you in the right direct.

If I can help, let me know 


us Offline ducttapetech

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #28 on: September 27, 2013, 05:19:06 PM
Cool beans! Thank Detron.

sent from my mobile

Nate

SEND IT!


fi Offline AlephZero

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Re: Self Sufficient computer repair and maintenance
Reply #29 on: September 28, 2013, 07:11:00 AM
Also if there are any questions about computer components, or putting one together, I may be of assistance :D

If that's OK with you Detron ;)
"Hoarder of weirdness,
Always posting random things,
I'm AlephZero" :ninja:


 

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