Follow these steps to check which version of Windows XP Media Center you are running. The system information menu will always show Windows XP 2002, which does not mean you are running MCE 2002.
• Open Media Center
• Click “Settings”
• Click “General”
• Click “About Media Center”
• Click “Software version”
While experimenting with Wordpress as a CMS, I found this bit of code useful to display a dynamic post inside of a static home page OUTSIDE of “the loop.”
<?php
$my_id = #;
$post_id_# = get_post($my_id, ARRAY_A);
$content = $post_id_#['post_content'];
?>
<?php echo $content ?>
Replace the # signs with the post ID of the post you want to show and place this snippet inside your homepage template.
This error is typically caused by corrupt files during installation. To fix this error when using Steam, go to your games list, right click Mass Effect and select Properties, Click the Local Files tab, and select Verify integrity of game cache.
I recently completed a job for a customer that involved reformatting and reinstalling Windows XP Home on a Dell XPS 600. Simple task right? Wrong! Because I wasn’t provided with the Dell recovery cd and the recovery partition was deleted, it turned out to be quite annoying. Dell’s use of an Nvidia Nforce4 motherboard (Foxconn LS-36 – SLI), Windows XP installations do not natively “see” sata hard drives. What XP requires is that you press F6 to install additional drivers during the driver loading phase of the XP installation setup. The catch is that you may only do so with a floppy drive (Vista later added the option to add drivers via USB drive). After a few hours of research and trial and error, I found a solution that does not require a floppy drive. Here are the quick and dirty steps:
Finally, boot the XPS 600 from the nLite’d Windows XP Home Edition cd you just created and continue installation as normal. You can skip the “Press F6 if you need to install third party SCSI or RAID driver” prompt because the nForce4 drivers will load automatically.
Blackberry Curve Hornets Fleur De Bee Wallpaper
Blackberry Curve New Orleans Saints Wallpaper
.JPG "HP TC1100")
.JPG "HP TC1100")
.JPG "HP TC1100")
.JPG "HP TC1100")
.JPG "HP TC1100")
.JPG "HP TC1100")
.JPG "HP TC1100")
.JPG "HP TC1100")
Packing an 800mhz Celeron M processor, 512mb DDR266 (PC2100) ram, a Wacom digitizer, and Windows XP Tablet Edition (SP3), the HP TC1100 makes for truly a fun mobile toy. I picked up an older unit for ~$100 out of curiosity because of the positive reviews it received. Here is my short review.
Exterior
The exterior features a 10.4″ LCD panel with a Wacom digitizer. This high-tech interface is protected by a tempered glass cover. It’s pretty sleek for being over 6 years old. The sides feature a power switch, programmable shortcut buttons, (2) USB ports, VGA output, modem and 10/100 ethernet jacks, PCMCIA slot, audio ports, and a power jack. The build quality has a nice sturdy feel to it, as expected for a device that was quite expensive on release day.
Setup
Out of the box, I immediately connected a USB CD/DVD-RW drive to reformat my newly aquired tablet. The disks that it came with include XP Tablet Edition SP1 (later models came with SP2), so I quickly updated that over the 802.11b wireless card at decent speeds. Although I did not need the CD-key, I noticed it was underneath the battery, which I found unusual. I also updated the Wacom drivers. After that, I disconnected the detachable keyboard to see how far I could get with the pen alone.
Techy-stuff
Though the 800mhz Celeron M (ultra-low voltage) processor is the slowest offered, an quick upgrade to 512mb ram from the factory 256mb gives it enough power to run Microsoft One Note and Outlook 2007 perfectly. Most DivX and Xvid movies play well too, thanks to the discrete Nvidia Geforce4 420 Go graphics card. Tweaking XP’s desktop effects yielded positive results in freeing up some valuable resources. Still, I would recommend having at least a gig of ram if you plan on using the TC1100 extensively.
Here are some other bits you may be interested in knowing:
For full system specs, check out this link.
Interface
The most important feature of a tablet PC is the accuracy and speed of its pen-driven interface. The TC1100’s pen is battery-free and moves smoothly across the screen. I noticed a tiny bit of delay while drawing in One Note 2007 than I would normally like, but it’s nothing that would prevent me from using it. Note taking is fast and accurate.
For times when typing is a must (like URLs or filling a form), Windows’ built-in tablet application allows you to write in the characters and quickly converts them into text. I would say it’s about 90% accurate.
Switching between landscape and portrait viewing modes is just a click away using the “Q” menu button. Portrait mode is ideal for document reading and writing, while landscape is better for web browsing and movie watching.
Conclusion
If you’re in the market for a tablet, I highly recommend the the HP TC1100. Click here to search eBay for the best deals on a TC1100 under $300. Acquiring one with the newer 1.2ghz Pentium M processor and the updated LCD panel will sweeten the deal. Overall grade…
8.5/10
Windows could not collect information for [OSImage] since the specified image file [install.wim] does not exist.
If you get the above error message while installing Windows 7 beta 7000, try using imgburn and burn the DVD at a slower speed. When I tried burning the iso with Nero on Verbatim media, I received the error above. After using imgburn, the install continued normally.
update: alcohol 120 works also.
denotes a high level of awesomeness
AdAware 2008 (free basic version)
A popular anti-spyware program.
Anti-Malware Toolkit (free)
Downloads updated version of the most popular anti-malware software, virus definition, useful utilities and more. Portable. Definitely a must-have. Requires .net framework 2.0.
Avira Antivir (free)
A free, lightweight antivirus. Good reviews, small footprint. The only negative is it has a nag screen at every definition update which can easily be removed using this method.
AVG Free (free)
A very popular antivirus/antispyware. Command-line scanner when used in Safe Mode.
ClamWin Portable Antivirus (free)
Free portable anti-virus. Does manual scans only.
CWShredder (free)
A Trendmicro app that removes CoolWebSearch and other browser hijackers.
Hijack This (free)
Another Trendmicro tool. Detects suspicious registry entries and potential sources of malware.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware (commercial/trialware)
An effective and simple malware removal tool. Deals with viruses, worms, trojans, rootkits, dialers, etc.
Spybot Search & Destroy (free)
A very popular and crafty spyware protection program. Can do scans and has live protection too.
SUPERAntiSpyware (free version available)
Combats many different types of malicious internet threats. Pro version has all-in-one features.
Webroot Spy Sweeper (commercial)
Comprehensive spyware protection. You can get by without purchasing this, but it’s easy to use.
AutoPatcher (free)
Download Windows Updates for local installation on other machines. Saves a lot of time.
CCleaner (free)
All-in-one system cleanup utility.
7zip Portable (free)
High compression, can unpack rar, zip, iso. Portable.
Crucial System Scanner (free)
Quickly displays motherboard, cpu info, and advises you on what memory will work with the system.
Deep Burner (free version available)
CD/DVD burning app.
Dial-A-Fix (free)
A portable app that can clear temp folders, fix the windows installer, windows updates, SSL, and numerous other quirky things that can go wrong with Windows XP.
Foxit PDF Reader (free)
Excellent PDF reader. Loads faster than Acrobat.
Gamekey Revealer (free)
Reveals keys for installed games for 550 games. Useful when you’re prepping for a reformat.
Glary Utilities (free)
Another all-in-one maintenance/optimization util. Works well and it’s free. Pro version available.
HD Tune Pro (commercial)
Drive diagnostics, benchmarking. It just works. Free version is available, but it’s heavily neutered.
Jkdefrag (free)
Free drive defragmentation and optimizer. Simple interface and gets the job done.
Magic Disc (free)
Save a cd/dvd, mount your images virtually.
Open Office (free)
Alternative to Microsoft Office. Works great in a pinch, but I prefer Office 07.
PC Decrapifier (free)
A utility that came in response to desktop and laptop manufacturers loading new systems with crapware. Removes most of it conveniently without having to go through each one manually.
Simple Port Forwarding (free)
App to automate the process of port forwarding. Works with many different routers. Plug in your username and password and off you go.
Speedfan (free)
Adjust fan speeds, view temps.
System Information for Windows (free)
Generates a comprehensive report on software, hardware, and network information stored on your computer. Reveals passwords, software keys, wireless keys. Does a whole lot more than that too. It’s a beast and it’s portable.
System Mechanic Mobile 6 (commercial)
All-in-one maintenance and cleanup utility. Does too many things to list. Rather expensive but give the 30-day trial a shot.
WinDirStat (free)
Portable. Shows folder usage for drives.
Produkey (free)
Recovers Office, Windows, Exchange Server, and SQL server keys. Very hand app.
Windows SyncToy (free)
Simple folder synchronization.
Windows TweakUI XP (free)
Microsoft utility that gives easy access to XP tweak settings.
Winrar (trialware)
Popular alternative to Winzip. Extracts .zip, .rar, .iso, .tar.
Winzip (trialware)
Classic zip archiver and extractor.
Winsockfix (free)
Fixes network problems, resets TCP stack.
WirelessKeyView (free)
Recovers WEP/WPA wireless keys stored on a computer.
Driver Genius Pro (commercial)
Very simple program that downloads the drivers you need as archives automatically. Requires an internet connection.
DriverPacks (free)
Huge compilation of 32-bit drivers for slipstreaming into your Windows install discs.
OEM and retail versions of XP/Vista. Usually the sticker is still on the computer, but the recovery CDs are long gone. You can get them from popular torrent sites, but stay away from the keygens/activation cracks.
UBCD4Win (free)
A free live recovery CD packed with useful diagnostics and recovery tools.
Winternals ERD Commander 2005 (commercial)
Awesome live recovery CD. Simple yet very effective. Attaches to your existing Windows XP installation. Has networking features, system file repair, and a file browser built in. Interface looks like Windows. Microsoft took it over and has a newer version w/ a 30-day trial.
Microsoft Diagnostics and Recovery Toolset 5 & 6
5 is an update to ERD Commander 2005 (XP), while 6 is made for Vista. Version 6 is very useful because it has a simple interface, virus/spyware removal, system file checker, and other recovery tools.
BartPE Builder (free)
Creates a live recovery cd from your Windows disk. Customizable and easy-to-use interface.
Fujitsu ATA Diagnostics Tool (free)
Detailed diagnostics on Fujitsu drives.
Hitachi Drive Fitness (free)
Detailed diagnostics on Hitachi drives.
Samsung Drive Diagnostic Utility (free)
Detailed diagnostics of Samsung drives.
Seagate Seatools (free)
Detailed diagnostics on Seagate drives
Western Digital Datalife Guard (free)
Detailed diagnostics on Western Digital drives.
Don’t give up on your X31 giving you a 4-4-4-4 (four beeps of four) beep code just yet!
I picked up an X31 while ago second-hand because it was having intermittent boot problems. I paid 60 bucks so I didn’t stand to lose much if I couldn’t fix it. When I received it, i discovered that the hard drive and the power adapter were bad. I bought used replacements for both for a total of $40 on eBay. I put those parts in and still had problems. I tried replacing the memory, opening everything up to check for loose cables, everything!
Eventually I discovered that when I applied pressure to the top-middle of the keyboard, I could get it to POST and go through the boot sequence. As soon as I let go though, it would lock up. At least it was a sign of life! After some extensive Googling, I discovered that the chipset in the X31 often develops a cold solder joint problem. The beep code and symptoms were identical to mine–four beeps of four, no POST, blank screen. I read about a few people who re-heated the main chipset with a heat gun and had some success. Having nothing to lose, I decided to try it out.
I don’t have a heatgun, but I do have a 1600W hairdyer . I had no idea if it would work, but I sure wasn’t about to put more money into this $60 laptop. I disassembled the laptop using IBM’s hardware manual. It was very easy to do using a set of small screwdrivers and, of course, an anti-static wristband. Once I had access to the motherboard, I removed the LCD screen and anything that might melt from the heat. Removing the plastics over the middle of the motherboard exposed the main chipset. To the right of it is the CPU with the fan. No need to touch that.
Once I had access to the chipset, I placed tinfoil around everything to protect it from the heat treatment I was about to give. I set the hairdryer to HIGH and held it around 3″ away, swirling it in circles to distribute the heat. I alternated between that and putting the hairdryer a few centimeters away. You want to reach 230 degrees to melt the solder from what I’ve read. I did that for 2-3 min. then gradually pulled away to let it cool down slowly. Anything metal on the laptop was very hot to the touch. After a few mins of letting it cool down, I buttoned the laptop back up.
I anxiously pressed the power button and……………lo and behold, my surgically repaired $100 IBM X31 works!
Further reading: forums.thinkpads.com
Update 12/10: Getting some lockups–assuming the mobo is no good.
From the very beginning, creating an online presence for your online business can be complicated. With 1000s of companies offering hosting, it’s hard to know where you’ll get the best bang for your hard-earned buck. Have no fear, i’m here to help.
My recommendation, based on several years of experience, is to register your domain name (www.yourcompany.com) through Go Daddy, and turn to Hostgator for web hosting. These two companies offer great value, customer service, and most importantly reliability. The reason for keeping them separate is because you want to avoid having your host also be your domain name registrar in the rare event that there’s a dispute and you need to change hosts.
1. Visit Go Daddy and locate the Domain Name Search. Type in your desired domain name (no http:// or www. needed). You may have a hard time finding the domain you want because the easy to remember ones are mostly gone. You can use dashes if you’d like. Keep trying, you’ll eventually find one that suits you. Click GO when you’ve found one.
2. By default Go Daddy will select the .com of your choice, and give you the choice to add more extensions like .net and .org. If it’s a name you’d like to invest in, buy them but it’s optional. The main reason you would want them is so that no one else can get them. Scroll down and press Proceed to Checkout.
3. You might be presented with another offer screen. Click “No thanks. Continue to checkout…”
4. Register a new account by filling out the form. Be sure your information is accurate because it will be used to identify you as the owner of the domain. Keep your login information handy, you’ll need it later on.
5. Next you’ll be presented with a screen that asks you how long you want to register the domain for. I recommend selecting 2 years so that you don’t have to worry about it for a while. Looking down at the second set of options, Go Daddy will ask you if the domain will be used for business or personal purposes. Select the appropriate option. Skip section 3 and head to 4. Here you’ll want to click “No thanks. I’m ready to checkout…” to further customizing your order.
6. In the final step, you’ll see the checkout screen. From here you can select your payment method (yes, they take Paypal!). Be sure to check off the two check boxes to agree to their terms. Pat yourself on the back, you’ve registered a domain name!
1. Visit Hostgator and choose the “Baby” or “Business” Linux hosting packagee by clicking the Order Now button under each column respectively. These packages offer a lot of space and bandwidth, will let you host multiple domain names, and setup unlimited email accounts. The cheapest package is a bit limited on features that you may need in the future.
2. On the “Order Wizard” screen, tell Hostgator that you will be using your existing domain (the one you just bought from Go Daddy). Select the radio button and enter your domain name in the field below. Be sure the .com/.net/.org extension is in the second field. Click next.
3. All you need to do on the next screen is select your billing frequency, and enter coupon code “jury” (without quotes) to get $9.94 off of your first month! Great deal.
4. Lastly, fill out your contact and billing information to verify your order. You will receive a confirmation email to tell you that your hosting is being setup. When your account is setup, you’ll receive another email welcoming you and listing your account information.
1. Once you receive your account information from Hostgator, you’ll notice the email lists your details like your login and password, ip address, your name servers, and a temporary link to your website since your domain name isnt pointed towards them yet. Make note of the name servers, you will need them to tell Go Daddy that you want your domain name (www.yourcompanyname.com) to point to Hostgator for hosting.
2. Login to Go Daddy at the top of the screen. Under My Products on the left panel, select Domain Manager. This will launch a new window that lets you change the settings of your domain name.
3. Inside the Domain Manager, click the domain name you purchased earlier.
4. Under the Name Servers section, click either one of the links that end with “.domaincontrol.com.” This will open a menu on top that lets you change the name server options.
5. Select the Custom nameservers radio button and enter the two name servers from the Hostgator email you received.
6. Click OK on the bottom right. You’re done! Wasn’t so bad was it? It may take up to 24 hours to update your name server entries. Once the update is complete, www.yourdomain.com will point to your Hostgator account. You can build your website from there.
If you have any problems, you can contact Go Daddy or Hostgator. Both have solid customer support.
The next guide will be on the basics of using cPanel, a widely used web hosting control panel, to make changes to your HostGator hosting.
