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

  1. I use XP and would like to change to Windows 7. Can I put on an 8 year old MG computer or should I buy a new computer with it on?
    • Buy a new computer or a refurbished machine from a company such as Future Shop, Staples or see Tom Rosebush. Upgrading an old computer will cost you more than a new one given today's prices.
      Beware:  A refurbished machine usually only has a guarantee for 90 days.

  2. How do I make a "Recovery Disc" for Windows 7?   Please go through the steps of how to do this.
    • The recovery process will use 3-4 DVDs or 11-12 CDs. Start by reading the Microsoft web site. It will show you how: Microsoft System Repair Disc
      For a second recovery disc, just make a copy of the Recovery discs.

  3. My computer uses Windows XP. I have been getting an error message that an email message sent to several addresses could not be delivered because one of the recipients was rejected by the server.
    • The one that could not be delivered probably has an invalid email address. When sending to several addresses the message would be getting to the other recipients.

  4. When using the Works Word page, the Task Pane takes up space and gets in the way. How can I get it off the page?
    • To close the Task Pane, you can click on the red XP box at the top right.

  5. Under Bookmarks I have a Media section. Lately when I click on to Globe & Mail there is a little flurry and then it reads "done" but there is no Globe & Mail.
    • Do 'Refresh' (F5). It should load. If you are on dial-up it takes a little longer.

  6. A member uses Vista and has lost the recycle bin icon. How to get it back?
    • 1) Right click the Vista Desktop
      2) Click on Personalize
      3) Select: 'Change desktop icons'
      4) At the Desktop Icon Settings place a tick next to: 'Recycle Bin'.

  7. Can printer ink cartridges be refilled or must I buy a new one?
    • There are places locally to get cartridges refilled. Across from the old Brighton Garden Centre on Hwy 2. They do refills while you wait and at a reasonable price.
      Note:  If you get a printer message to clean your printer heads - ignore the message. Instead take a Q tip and dip it in alcohol and gently brush the printer heads. Some use distilled water but alcohol dries faster. One member orders directly from HP and has them delivered at a reasonable price.
      Some cartridges have nozzle heads built into them and these heads are meant to be replaced when you buy a new cartridge. They can only be refilled once or twice. Also, there is an expiry date on the cartridge box. Some printers will say they are out of ink if the expiry date passes.
      Also, it is best not to leave your printer a long time without using it.

  8. How to get rid of emails on IE?
    • IE is a browser. OE doesn't have a size column. Charlie explained how to right click and check the information you want.

  9. How do I move a number of emails to a folder?
    • If they are in sequence, click the first email message you want to move while also holding down the Shift key ... arrow down to the last email message you want to move so they are all highlighted and then click on where you want them to go. Or, if they are not in sequence, click them using the control key for individual ones you want moved.

Top of Page