HCPS Technology Department has started creating a list of “tech tips” to help students troubleshoot issues on their computers. I thought you might find them useful as well. Here’s the list:
Does your Laptop react slow and sometimes freeze up? Here are a few tips to get your laptop back up to speed.
- Set your desktop background to one picture rather than using a desktop background that changes every few seconds.
- Try minimizing the use of Desktop gadgets; do you really need to have 4 clocks open all the time?
- Limit the use of animated screen savers such as the “Bubbles” and try to limit the number of programs that are open at one time.
All of these settings use up valuable memory and resources on your laptop that can cause your computer to respond slower than normal.
When and how often should I back up my files to the server?
- Get in the habit of backing up your files every morning when you arrive at school and every afternoon before you leave. You should also back up before turning in your computer to the Help Desk for repair.
- Did you know you can access files on the server with a student loaner, or from Library desktop computers?
- If you need help backing up, ask the Help Desk, or your teacher. If you follow these simple tips, you will always have your most current data.
Did you know pulling your battery out or holding down the power button to shut down your laptop is bad for your computer? Doing a forced Shutdown can cause file corruption or even worse, it could crash your hard drive. Think of it as suddenly putting a car in reverse while driving down the interstate at 70mph. Not Pretty! So what is the right way to shut down your computer?
- Select the Windows icon located on the taskbar, and click “Shutdown” from the menu options.
- Shutting down your computer daily helps Windows organize your files and keeps your computer running at peak performance.
- It is also a good idea to shut down your computer each day before you leave school, and before you store your computer for overnight charging.
- Remember Performing Forced Shutdowns stops Windows in its tracks and it may not start again.
Laptop Care
- Did you know that leaving your laptop in a car overnight can be harmful to your computer? Extreme heat or cold can cause cracked screens or hard drive failure, or other damage. Be sure to bring your laptop inside every afternoon.
- Never over pack your backpack. Your backpack may be padded for protection, but will not protect your computer from rough handling. Your backpack should not be used as a seat cushion, step stool, or Frisbee.
- Avoid holding your computer by the screen. This can result in a broken hinge.
- If you need to store your laptop in your locker, make sure you have a specific place in it for laptop storage. Never force your laptop into your locker and be cautious when shutting the locker door. Failing to do so can cause cracked screens or other damages.
- Your Laptop is not an Umbrella. Keep it in a backpack or case during rain or snow.
- Choose a safe location to charge your computer like a table, desk, or bookshelf. If you charge your laptop on the floor, it could accidentally be stepped on. If you stretch your charger cable across a long distance, the cord may become a tripping hazard. Either of these practices could lead to a cracked screen or other damage. Whenever possible, choose a location that is close to an electrical outlet.
- Food, drink, and computers are 3 things that don’t play nicely together. Liquid spills are a common accidental damage that can be easily avoided. Please don’t eat or drink while doing work on your laptop.
- Remember, an accidental damage can prevent you from laptop incentive qualification.
- Always store your computer in a safe place when you are not using it. It should be kept in an area that is away from pets and small children.
