Tech Panel:  Charlie Le Ber, Tom Rosebush, Janice Zerafa and Joan Wild
Moderated by:  George Chandler

  1. Will the change to USB3 be an update or a change of the ports?
    • USB3 will be completely compatible with USB 1.1 and 2.0 cables & ports by incorporating the new USB3 connectors within the standard usb ports. The new features of USB3 will take effect when a USB3 cable is connected to a USB3 port. The plug is the same size.
      New USB3 plug:

  2. Microsoft Office Word document came back bigger than the screen. Why?
    • In Office, under "View" check Zoom setting, or it may have changed from scrolling on the mouse wheel. Check the toolbar.

  3. A member asked if the start time of the meetings could be 10:00 a.m. instead of 9:30.
    • Members voted. It will stay at 9:30.

  4. What is RegTOOL?
    • It is like CCleaner, doing a lot of the same things. It is free to download and scan but then to use it you have to buy it. Members were encouraged to use the free program (CCleaner) on the memory stick.

  5. While giving a demo on Skype, a member tried to use Skype video via a projector but the computer froze when he hit 'dial'. Why?
    • Janice suggested using audio only and leaving the video off. If not using video and it still freezes, your computer probably doesn't have enough RAM. If your dial line is slow, you may freeze up. Dial lines should be close to 56KBS and it will not be as clear as a high-speed connection. You have to shut off other programs when playing video. Charlie went into MS Config. and took off some programs to save RAM and help speed up the computer a little bit. If possible, turn off your virus checker too. If you do that, do not accept downloads while using Skype.
      Having 2 GB of RAM is necessary if you have an 'integrated video card'.It steals a bit of your RAM. A 'designated RAM Video card' doesn't have to borrow from your computer RAM. Designated RAM may be worthwhile to have especially if you do video. However, 'integrated' can be upgraded at a cost of $100 for the card in a desktop only.
      Re Skype: A member spoke about a free line to leave messages/voice mail.

  6. How do I stop the MS Messenger message saying 'Must Have Administrator'?
    • Use Task Manager to end the process. Be quick and display C drive, Program Files, and find Messenger. Right click Messenger and rename it to MessengerZZZKill. Try "Shoot the Messenger" but it may not work.

  7. What do you do if you forget your computer password?
    • Charlie suggested going to Google and ask "lost password Windows XP". There will be several answers on how to reset your password. Also, keep track of your passwords in a secure encrypted file. Or, you could make a jpg of them using Faststone Capture (on club memory stick) and store on another memory stick. Or, use Roboform (on club memory stick) and then you only have to remember one password..

  8. A member asked about beginner computer classes.
    • The information is on the website. Angie Quinn gives lessons. Her email address is: adquinn@hotmail.com


Reminder:  Send questions to the forum on the Brighton Computer Club web site.

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