Subject/Title |
Meeting & Date |
1-TETHERING A CELL PHONE--AN OVERVIEW:
If your cell phone has a "data plan", you can use it to provide an Internet connection for a computer, a tablet, or another cell phone, or some routers.
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/1-tethering-overview.pdf
or
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/1-tethering-overview.pptx
1A-DATA CAPS FOR CELL PHONE PLANS FROM VARIOUS PROVIDERS:
Most cell phone providers impose monthly "data caps" for mobile tethering and mobile hotspotting.
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/1A-tethering-billing.pdf
or
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/1A-tethering-billing.pptx
2-Using a Wi-Fi "hotspot" emanating from an iPhone to provide an Internet connection for a "Windows.." computer
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/2-tethering-iPhone-Wi-Fi-Win.pdf
or
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/2-tethering-iPhone-Wi-Fi-Win.pptx
2-Using a Wi-Fi "hotspot" emanating from an iPhone to provide an Internet connection for a "macOS" computer
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/2A-tethering-iPhone-Wi-Fi-macOS.pdf
or
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/2A-tethering-iPhone-Wi-Fi-macOS.pptx
3-Using a Wi-Fi "hotspot" emanating from an Android cell phone to provide an Internet connection for a "Windows.." computer
is available at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/3-tethering-Android-Wi-Fi-Win.pdf
or
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/3-tethering-Android-Wi-Fi-Win.pptx
4-Using a USB cable so that a Android cell phone can provide an
Internet connection for a "Windows.." computer
is available at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/4-tethering-Android-USB-Win.pdf
or
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/4-tethering-Android-USB-Win.pptx
5-Using a Bluetooth connection so that an Android cell phone can provide an Internet connection for a "Windows.." computer
is available at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/5-tethering-Android-Bluetooth-Win.pdf
or
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/5-tethering-Win-Android-Bluetooth.pptx
6-Using an "iPhone-to-USB" cable to so that an "iPhone"< can provide an Internet connection for a "Windows.." computer
is available at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/6-tethering-iPhone-USB-Win.pdf
or
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/6-tethering-iPhone-USB-Win.pptx
7-Using an "iPhone-to-USB" cable to so that an "iPhone" can provide an Internet connection for a "MacOS" computer
is available at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/7-tethering-iPhone-USB-macOS.pdf
or
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/7-tethering-iPhone-USB-macOS.pptx
8-Using a USB-C wired Ethernet adapter to so that an Android cell phone can provide an Internet connection
for a "Windows.." computer, a macOS computer, or a router
is available at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/8-tethering-Android-USB-C-Enet-Win.pdf
or
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/tethering/8-tethering-Android-USB-C-Enet-Win.pptx
|
Meeting
of
Wisconsin All-computer Users Club
of
Milwaukee
on
07-10-2025
and
Meeting of the
PCBUG-Naples Technology User Group
on
06-20-2024
and
Meeting
of the North Texas PC Users Group
on
03-16-2024
|
Virtual Fax Machine inside Your "Windows.." Computer:
1-Basic information about using a data/fax modem in a "Windows.." or "Linux" computer
is available at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/fax/1-fax-from-computer.pdf
or
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/fax/1-fax-from-computer.pptx
2-Fax modem installation is
is described at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/fax/2-fax-modem-install.pdf
or
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/fax/2-fax-modem-install.pptx
4-"Windows Fax and Scan" is no longer bundled into "Windows 11.." computers.
To get it installed,
you can follow the instructions at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/fax/4-WFS-install-Win11.pdf
or
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/fax/4-WFS-install-Win11.pptx
5-Before you can start using "Windows Fax and Scan" to send or receive faxes, you have to configure it
as described step-by-step at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/fax/5-WFS-configuring-Win.pdf
or
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/fax/5-WFS-configuring-Win.pptx
6-You can use HP's free "Fax Test" service to test any fax modem, stand-alone fax machine, or online fax service
as explained at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/fax/6-HP-Fax-Test.pdf
or
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/fax/6-HP-Fax-Test.pptx
7-Using "Windows Fax and Scan" to send and receive faxes
is explained at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/fax/7-WFS-using-Win.pdf
or
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/fax/7-WFS-using-Win.pptx
8-After sending a fax with "Windows Fax and Scan", you can create a detailed confirmation report
as explained at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/fax/8-WFS-confirmation-reports.pdf
or
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/fax/8-WFS-confirmation-reports.pptx
9-You can can avoid paying monthly "long distance service" charges for faxing to fax machines outside of your local calling area by using a low-cost AT&T telephone calling card with your fax machine or fax modem
as explained at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/fax/9-calling-card-faxing.pdf
or
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/fax/9-calling-card-faxing.pptx
|
Meeting of the
PCBUG-Naples Technology User Group
on
07-17-2025
and
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
05-15-2023
and
Windows 8 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on 05-01-2013
|
WIRED "ETHERNET" NETWORKING
Comparing the speed of your Internet connection with the actual speed that your computer experiences
is explained at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/Ethernet/speed-tests.pdf
and
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/Ethernet/speed-tests.pptx
Comprehensive Information About Wired Ethernet Networking
is explained at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/Ethernet/Ethernet.pdf
and
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/Ethernet/Ethernet.pptx
Installing Cat 7 or 6 or 5 cabling
is explained at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/Ethernet/Cat7-6-5-installation.pdf
and
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/Ethernet/Cat7-6-5-installation.pptx
Installing Cat 8 cabling
is explained at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/Ethernet/Cat8-installation.pdf
and
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/Ethernet/Cat8-installation.pptx
|
General Meeting
of the
Madison PC Users Group on
06-11-2025
and
General Meeting
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
05-21-2024
|
Burglars around the U.S. have been using portable Wi-Fi jammers
to prevent security cameras from recording their activities with your video cameras
as explained in detail at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/webcams/Wi-Fi-jammers.pdf
To proactively prevent these criminals from succeeding,
you need to install wired cameras that do not rely on Wi-Fi to connect to
local "Digital Video Recorders", in-camera SD modules,
and/or cloud-based video storage services.
The most cost-effective way to counteract Wi-Fi jammers is to use
"Power Over Ethernet" cameras with "Powerline Networking" kits,
"Power Over Ethernet" network switch devices, and "Power Over Ethernet" injector devices.
For an explanation of how these technologies work together, please see
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/webcams/PoE-cameras.pdf
For an explanation of how you can place Webcams to look out of windows
and record the outside without installing them outside, please see
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/webcams/Webcams-in-windows.pdf
Powerline Networking is now sometimes as fast as wired Ethernet Cat 5e/6/7/8 cabling
if:
1) you use the latest models of Powerline Networking adapters
AND
2) you learn a little about electrical circult breaker panels,
as explained at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/windhardsig/networks/powerline/powerline.pdf
with our latest "YouTube" video located at
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xeNoIeQl8BA
If the lights on both ends of a
"Powerline networking" link light
up and your Windows..
computer is still not connected
to the Internet, reset the
Ethernet adapter in the
"Network and Sharing Center"
to get it working
as explained at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/windhardsig/networks/powerline/powerline-force-on.pdf
A good example of a "Power Over Ethernet" camera
which is bundled with a "Power Over Ethernet" injector device is the "Ring Stick Up Camera Elite"
as shown at
https://www.amazon.com/Ring-Ethernet-Security-Camera-Two-Way/dp/B07TC7D9CS/
A good example of a "Power Over Ethernet" Local Network Switch
that can send DC power up to 100 yards away by means of a Cat 5e or 6 or 7 or 8 cable
is shown at
https://www.amazon.com/Ethernet-Unmanaged-Compliant-Shielded-TL-SF1005P/dp/B076PRM2C5
A good example of a "Powerline Networking Kit"
is shown at
https://www.amazon.com/NETGEAR-Powerline-Adapter-Ethernet-Passthrough/dp/B0778Y6K6N/
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
05-21-2024
|
Addressing Envelopes in LibreOffice:
https://ask.libreoffice.org/t/envelope-printing-the-easy-way/1396
https://ask.libreoffice.org/t/can-someone-please-help-me-print-an-envelope/19121
Free Alternatives to Microsoft 365 or Microsoft Office
To avoid paying for "Microsoft Office..", you can use free office software "suites".
For ease of use and compatibility with "Microsoft Office.." file formats, "SoftMaker FreeOffice" is the best.
For "bells and whistles" features, "LibreOffice" is the best and it is bundled in with most distros of Linux.
However, "LibreOffice" is not as compatible with "Microsoft Office.." file formats as "SoftMaker FreeOffice".
For our detailed how-to advice,
please see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/office/alt-Office-suites.pdf
or
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/office/alt-Office-suites.pptx
Sample files for testing the compatibility of free office alternatives,
can be downloaded from
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/office/sample-Office-files/sampleOfficefiles.zip
Our comparisons of the free apps in "SoftMaker FreeOffice" and "LibreOffice" to the paid apps in "Microsoft Office"
are described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/office/office-suites-comparisons.pdf
or
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/office/office-suites-comparisons.pptx
Step-by-step instructions for installing "SoftMaker FreeOffice"
are available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/office/FreeOffice-install.pdf
or
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/office/FreeOffice-install.pptx
Issues and warnings about "WPS Office"
are available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/office/WPS_Office.pdf
or
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/office/WPS_Office.pptx
The "uninstaller" modules that are bundled with most "Desktop apps"
(that "Programs and Features" in the Control Panel of "Windows.." utilizes to remove software)
leave all sorts of junk in both the Registry of "Windows.." and on your C: hard drive:
To do a really clean uninstall of a "desktop app" or a "Universal Windows Platform app"
in a "Windows.." computer, including the removal of any malware
that may have latched onto a legitimate app in your "Windows.." computer.
Details on how to use the free "Revo Uninstaller Portable" program
are available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/utils/uninstaller/RevoUninstallerPortable.pdf
or
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/utils/uninstaller/RevoUninstallerPortable.pptx
When using any of the free office suites, it is best to make sure that "file extensions" are displayed in a Window.. or macOS computer to avoid confusion because most of the free office suites default to file formats that are not the same as the file formats that are used by "Microsoft Office" or "Microsoft 365"
as explained at
http://www.aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win/easier/file-extensions.pdf
or
http://www.aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win/easier/file-extensions.pptx
|
General Meeting
of the
Sarasota Technology Users Group on
06-04-2025
and
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
11-15-2021
|
0--Wi-Fi Extenders, Routers, and Mesh from the Viewpoint of a Wi-Fi Client Computer, Tablet, or Cell Phone
is- described at
http://www.aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/routers/0-Wi-Fi-client-viewpoint.pdf
-------------------------------------------
1--Wi-Fi Extenders
are described at
http://www.aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/routers/1-Wi-Fi-extender.pdf
-------------------------------------------
2--Routers-Basic Information is described at
http://www.aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/routers/2-routers-basics.pdf
-------------------------------------------
3--Wi-Fi Mesh is described at
http://www.aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/routers/3-Wi-Fi-mesh.pdf
-------------------------------------------
4-Router Security Vulnerabilities
are described at
http://www.aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/routers/4-router-security-vulnerabilities.pdf
-------------------------------------------
5-Using Multiple Routers To Mitigate Router Security Vunerabilities
is described at
http://www.aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/routers/5-routers-2plus.pdf
|
Meeting
of the
Ottawa PC Users' Group
on
10-08-2025
and
General Meeting
of the
Computer Users of Erie
on
03-21-2024
and
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
03-19-2024
and
11-20-2023
and
Meeting
of the
PC Community Computer Users Group
in
Hayward,
California, USA
on
08-04-2021
and
General Meeting
of the
Madison PC Users Group on
03-09-2022
|
ROUTER VULNERABILITIES:
Use multiple routers to protect your home or small business network
against the security vulnerabilities of "Internet of Things" ("IoT") devices:
For a level of security that is better than a single router, use three routers as follows:
Router 1 = "Border router" connects to the Internet provider.
Router 2 = "IoT router" is used to connect to cloud-connected security cameras, cloud-connected motion detection devices, smart refrigerators, smart TVs, video doorbells, smart thermostats, cloud-based voice-operated assistants, etc.
Router 3 = "Trusted router" is used to connect to your most-secure computers, Network-Attached Storage devices, home servers, etc.
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/routers/routers-2plus.pdf
-------------------------------------------
For information and advice about
router security vulnerabilites
please see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/routers/router-security-vulnerabilities.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Computer Users of Erie
on
03-21-2024
and
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
03-19-2024
and
Meeting of the
PCBUG-Naples Technology User Group
on
02-17-2022
and
General Meeting
of the
Prescott Computer Society
on 06-12-2021
and
Meeting
of
Sterling Heights Computer Club
on
04-06-2021
and
General Meeting
of
Komputer Enthusiasts of Greater Seattle (KEGS)
on
02-08-2016
and
Virtual Technology Conference 18
of
APCUG
on
11-07-2015
and
Windows 10/ Hardware
SIG
on
11-04-2015
|
Network Options for Wireless Wi-Fi Routers:
Wi-Fi Extenders. Mesh routers, Mesh units, and Backhaul Options:
An example of a Wi-Fi extender
is provided at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/routers/network-strategies.pdf
An example of two routers in a mesh configuration
is provided at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/routers/network-strategies.pdf
Network strategies for both wired local networking, "wired equivalent" networking, and wireless Wi-Fi networking
are available at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/network-strategies.pdf
Powerline Networking is now as fast as wired Ethernet Cat 5e/6/7/8 cabling
if:
1) you use the latest models of Powerline Networking adapters
AND
2) you learn a little about electrical circult breaker panels,
as explained at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/windhardsig/networks/powerline/powerline.pdf
with our latest "YouTube" video located at
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xeNoIeQl8BA
If the lights on both ends of a
"Powerline networking" link light
up and your Windows..
computer is still not connected
to the Internet, reset the
Ethernet adapter in the
"Network and Sharing Center"
to get it working
as explained at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/windhardsig/networks/powerline/powerline-force-on.pdf
|
Meeting
of the
PC Community Computer Users Group
in
Hayward,
California, USA
on
08-04-2021
and
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
04-18-2022
|
Spring Cleaning- Where to Recycle (or Discard) Your Old Computers and Printers for Free
please see
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/spring-cleaning-where-to-recycle-your-old-computers-and-printers-for-free/ar-BB1l1Wi5?ocid=msedgdhp&pc=U531&cvid=1876d3b3d4db4625aae1a50a6c4856d5&ei=29
iMyFone "Screen Mirroring" is the best Windows.. app for allowing your iPhone to "AirPlay" its screen to a Windows.. computer.
No additional app is needed for your iPhone since the "AirPlay" capability is part of the "iPhoneOS" operating system.
A free, time-limited trial for iMyFone "Screen Mirroring" is available at
https://www.imyfone.com/screen-mirror/?media=googleppc&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21642525979&gbraid=0AAAAACZMS_bbk24UzGV__kg-5sqFIDnLJ&gclid=Cj0KCQjw0LDBBhCnARIsAMpYlAo-d-eVX6rxV5HUMpaOZs74_h51-wZoJdF94I_WoMBvsdREtrRomWwaAnA9EALw_wcB
The "iMyPhone" company
is described at
https://www.imyfone.com/company/
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
05-20-2025
|
USING "RESCUEZILLA" OR "CLONEZILLA LIVE"
TO MAKE CLONES OR "IMAGE BACKUPS" OF YOUR COMPUTER'S HARD DRIVES
OR SOLID STATE DRIVES:
000-"Drive Configurations in Personal Computers"
is explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/backup/000-drive-configurations.pdf
00-"Rescuezilla" Versus "CLONEZILLA LIVE"
is explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/backup/00-rescuezilla-vs-clonezilla.pdf
0-Cloning Versus Imaging: Two Ways To Back Up Your Digital Stuff
is explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/backup/0-cloning-vs-imaging.pdf
1-Buying USB Thumb Drives, DVD Drives, or CD Drives
for Booting Up a Computer with "Rescuezilla" or "Clonezilla Live"
is explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/backup/1-buying-bootable-DVD-or-thumbdrive.pdf
2A- Making A "Rescuezilla" Bootable USB Thumb Drive
is described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/backup/2A-making-Rescuezilla-thumbdrive.pdf
2B- Making a "Rescuezilla" Bootable DVD Disc
is described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/backup/2B-making-Rescuezilla-DVD.pdf
3A-Buying External SATA Hard Drives
is described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/backup/3A-external-hard-drives.pdf
3B-External Hard Drive Enclosures
is described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/backup/3B-external-hard-drive-enclosures.pdf
3C-External M.2 SSDs and Enclosures
is described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/backup/3C-external-M.2-SSD-enclosures.pdf
4-Using a Bootable CD or DVD or a Bootable USB Thumb Drive
to Start Up "Rescuezilla" or "CLONEZILLA LIVE"
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/backup/4-computer-boot-up-procedure.pdf
5-Determining Drive Serial Numbers For Using "Rescuezilla" or "CLONEZILLA LIVE"
is available at -
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/backup/5-drive-identification.pdf
6A-Using "Rescuezilla" To Create A Clone Or An Image Backup
Of A Drive In Your Computer
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/backup/6A-using-Rescuezilla.pdf
6B-If You Use Rescuezilla To Clone A Drive In A "Windows 10.." Or A "Windows 11.." computer
And Connect Both Drives Connected By Means of SATA or M.2,
And You Then Boot Up or Reboot the "Windows.." Computer, You Will Get A "Signature Collision"
as explained in
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/backup/6B-signature-collisions.pdf
("Signature collisions" are "fatal" for bootable "Windows.." drives
but fixable for non-bootable drives.)
8-How the cloning operations of "Rescuezilla" and "Clonezilla"
differ from the cloning operations of "Macrium Reflect" and EaseUS "Partition Magic"
is explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/backup/8-free-versus-not-free-cloning-apps.pdf
7-Using "CLONEZILLA LIVE" To Create Backups of Data and Digital Photo Files
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/backup/7-using-Clonezilla-Live.pdf
Unlike "Rescuezilla", "Clonezilla" has a text-based user interface.
"Clonezilla" can be used if you need to have more control over the settings of the cloning or imaging process
than than those available in "Rescuezilla".
You can avoid the costs of buying USB drive adapters or USB drive enclosures by installing long SATA data cables and SATA power extension cables
from inside your computer to normally-internal SATA hard drives and SSDs that are located outside of a computer
by following the advice at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/external/addiging-ext-internal-drives.pdf
"Windows 11" activation and "Windows 10" activation is way different
from any version of "Windows.." prior to "Windows 10" !!
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win11/activation/win11&10activation.pdf
If you use a purchased a "Windows 10 product key" to activate
a newly-installed or upgraded copy of "Windows 10", you will still have a "Digital License".
If you use a Windows 7 or 8 or 8.1 product key to activate a newly-installed or upgraded copy of "Windows 10",
you will usually also get a "Digital License".
|
General Meeting
of the
Madison PC Users Group on
08-14-2024
and
General Meeting
of
TechEdConnect
on 07-11-2024
and
Wednesday
Workshop
of the
APCUG
on 04-17-2024
and
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
04-16-2024
|
The Various Types of Malware
are explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/malware/removal/malware-types.pdf
0-Malware Remediation--Proactive and Reactive
is explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/malware/removal/malware-remediation-strategies.pdf
1- SSD and Hard Drive Cloning As A Proactive Defense Against Malware Infections
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/malware/removal/1-cloning-as-defense-from-malware.pdf
If you buy a M.2 SSD to clone an existing M.2 SSD that is inside your computer,
you can attach the newly-purchased M.2 SSD to your computer
by means of an external M.2 SSD enclosure
as explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/SSDs/M.2/1-M.2-enclosures.pdf
2A-Generic Reactive Malware Removal Strategy
is described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/malware/removal/2A-generic-reactive-malware-removal.pdf
3A-Browser Notification Malware Removal
is described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/malware/browser-notification-malware/browser-notification-malware.pdf
The "uninstaller" modules that are bundled with most "Desktop apps"
(that "Programs and Features" in the Control Panel of "Windows.." utilizes to remove software)
leave all sorts of junk in both the Registry of "Windows.." and on your C: hard drive:
To do a really clean uninstall of a "desktop app" or a "Universal Windows Platform app"
in a "Windows.." computer, including the removal of any malware
that may have latched onto a legitimate app in your "Windows.." computer.
Details on how to use the free "Revo Uninstaller Portable" program
are available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/utils/uninstaller/RevoUninstallerPortable.pdf
If "Microsoft Edge" fails including when malware latches on to it,
you can sometimes fix it from inside the "Settings" app of "Windows 10.." or "Windows 11.."
as explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/malware/removal/Microsoft-Edge-repair.pdf
There are three kinds of apps (= programs) inside your Windows 11, 10, or 8 computer:
UWP Apps, Legacy Programs, and Portable Apps
as explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/email/UWP-vs-legacy-apps.pdf
The newer "Universal Windows Platform" Apps
(such as the "Phone Link" app in Windows 11 or 10)
will not allow you to right-click on them to place a shortcut into the Windows 11, 10, or 8 "Desktop".
To create shortcuts to all apps in
Windows 11,10, or 8, you can type
shell:appsfolder
in a "Run"
command box as explained at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/ pc-control/Making-Shortcuts-to-apps-in-Win11&10&8.pdf
|
Meeting of the
PCBUG-Naples Technology User Group
on
07-18-2024
and
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
01-16-2024
|
Our detailed advice about
over-the-air reception of ATSC television
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/TV/ATSC3-tuner.pdf
Three reasonably-priced over-the-air "NextGen" TV tuners were introduced at "CES 2024":
"Zapperbox" tuner can receive BOTH unencrypted AND encrypted "ATSC 3.0" television channels.
However, it is about $300.
The "Zinwell ZAT-600B" tuner is $150 and, unlike the other two tuners, it does not require an Internet connection.
"ADTH TV" tuner at about $100 is a surprisingly low-priced tuner model
that can receive both unencrypted and encrypted TV channels.
Using any of these three tuners, you can now receive all three types of free television channels:
legacy ATSC 1.0 television channels,
newer ATSC 3.0 "Nextgen" unencrypted television channels
and
even newer ATSC 3.0 "Nextgen" encrypted television channels.
Our advice for installing the low-cost "ADTH NextGen TV Box"
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/TV/ADTH-tuner.pdf
Our advice for installing the low-cost "Zinwell NextGen TV Box"
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/TV/Zinwell-tuner.pdf
"Over The Air" television services compete with "Over The Top" television services.
"Over The Air" televison services require tuners.
"Over The Top" television services require devices such as Rokus, Amazon Firesticks, Google Chromecasts, or Apple TVs.
A comprehensive description of various television serices
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/TV/television-services.pdf
Our detailed explanation about
the simulcasting of both ATSC 1.0 television channels and ATSC 3.0 television channels
(at least until July 17, 2027)
for the San Francisco, California area is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/TV/ATSC3-transition-SF.pdf
Our detailed explanation about
the simulcasting of both ATSC 1.0 television channels and ATSC 3.0 television channels
(at least until July 17, 2027)
for the Los Angeles California area is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/TV/ATSC3-transition-LA.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
05-21-2024
and
Meeting
of the
PC Community Computer Users Group
of
Hayward,
California, USA
on
04-05-2023
|
USING ZOOM'S "TAKE CONTROL" OR "MICROSOFT'S "QUICK ASSIST" OR MICROSOFT'S "REMOTE ASSISTANCE"
TO HELP SOMEONE WITH THEIR "WINDOWS.." OR "LINUX.." COMPUTER
You can use your Zoom's "Take Control" feature or Microsoft's "Quick Assist"
or Microsoft's "Remote Assistance" app
to help a "Windows.." or "Linux.." computer user without being physically present at their physical location:
--For information on Zoom's "Take Control" feature
please see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/
remote-assistance/Zoom-remote-control.pdf
Since "Zoom
Workplace" gives you the ability to take control of both "Windows.." computers
and "Linux.." computers,
you can use it to also help someone install "Linux.."
as a virtual machine running in someone's existing "Windows.." computer in three logical procedures:
Procedure 1: Install in free virtual machine program such as "Virtualbox" or "VMware Workstation Pro Player".
Procedure 2: Create a new empty virtual machine.
Proceudre 3: Install "Linux.." into the new virtual machine.
--For information on the bundled Windows' "Quick Assist" capability
please see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/ remote-assistance/Quick-Assist.pdf
--For information on the bundled Windows' "Remote Assistance" capability
please see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/ remote-assistance/MicrosoftRemoteAssistance.pdf
--The newer "Universal Windows Platform" Apps (such as the "Quick Assist" app) will not allow you to right
click on them to place a shortcut into the Windows 11, 10, or 8 "Desktop".
To create shortcuts to all apps in
Windows 11,10, or 8, you can run
"shell:appsfolder" in a "Run"
command box as explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/remote-assistance/ Making-Shortcuts-to-apps-in-Win11&10&8.pdf
|
Wednesday
Workshop
of the
APCUG
on
04-10-2024
and
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
04-16-2024
and
General Meeting of the
Pikes Peak Computer Application Society
of
Colorado Springs, CO
on
06-04-2022
and
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
11-15-2021
|
Our detailed explanation about
the simulcasting of both ATSC 1.0 television channels and ATSC 3.0 television channels
(at least until 2027)
for the Los Angeles area is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/TV/ATSC3-transition-LA.pdf
Our detailed advice about
over-the-air reception of ATSC television
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/TV/ATSC3-tuner.pdf
Three reasonably-priced over-the-air "NextGen" TV tuners were demonstrated at "CES 2024":
"Zapperbox" tuner can receive BOTH unencrypted AND encrypted "ATSC 3.0" television channels.
However, it is about $300.
The "Zinwell ZAT-600B" tuner is $150 and, unlike the other two tuners, it does not require an Internet connection.
"ADTH TV" tuner at about $100 is a surprisingly low-priced tuner model
that can receive both unencrypted and encrypted TV channels.
Using any of these three tuners, you can now receive all three types of free television channels:
legacy ATSC 1.0 television channels,
newer ATSC 3.0 "Nextgen" unencrypted television channels
and
even newer ATSC 3.0 "Nextgen" encrypted television channels.
The advice for installing the low-cost "ADTH NextGen TV Box"
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/TV/ADTH-tuner.pdf
Use the free "CrystalDiskInfo Portable" Windows.. app
to monitor the temperature of your internal and external M.2 SSDs
as described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/SSDs/M.2/0-crystaldiskinfo-portable.pdf
Internal M.2 SSDs either go into motherboard M.2 slots or External M.2 SSD Enclosures
as described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/SSDs/M.2/3-Internal-M.2-SSDs-buying.pdf
The easiest way to make an existing Windows.. computer
dual boot between Windows.. and Linux
is to insert an internal M.2 SSD into an external M.2 SSD enclosure that has a powerful fan.
Then use a Linux installation CD or DVD or USB thumb drive to install Linux into the
external M.2 SSD enclosure.
When you want to boot up into Windows.., make sure that the external M.2 SSD enclosure is not attached to the computer.
When you want to boot up into Linux.., attached the external M.2 enclosure is attached to the computer.
as described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/SSDs/M.2/1-M.2-enclosures.pdf
External USB M.2 SSDs will replace the current USB thumb drivess
as described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/SSDs/M.2/2-External-M.2-SSDs-buying.pdf
Adding Active Cooling To Keep An M.2 SSD from Overheating
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/SSDs/M.2/M.2-upgrade.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
02-20-2024
|
0-Malware Remediation--Proactive and Reactive
is explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/malware/removal/0-malware-remediation-strategies.pdf
1- SSD and Hard Drive Cloning As A Proactive Defense Against Malware Infections
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/malware/removal/1-cloning-as-defense-from-malware.pdf
2A-Generic Reactive Malware Removal Strategy
is described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/malware/removal/2A-generic-reactive-malware-removal.pdf
2B- Big Step 100-"Quick Scan" With "Windows Security"
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/malware/removal/2B-Quick-Scan-in-Windows-Security.pdf
2C- Big Step 200-"Task Manager" for Malware Analysis
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/malware/removal/2C-Task-Manager-for-malware-analysis.pdf
2D-Big Step 300-"Revo Uninstaller Portable" for Malware Removal
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/malware/removal/2D-Revo-Uninstaller-Portable-for-malware-removal.pdf
If "Microsoft Edge" fails, you can ususally fix it from inside "Settings"
as explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/malware/removal/Microsoft-Edge-repair.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
01-16-2024
|
Struggles With Failures of Windows.. Computers From A "Discount Warehouse Store"
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/hardware/case-histories/case-histories-Costco.pdf
Adding Active Cooling To Keep An M.2 SSD from Overheating
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/SSDs/M.2/M.2-upgrade.pdf
Microsoft's advice on the three ways that you can install Linux into a computer
is available at
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/linux/install
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
10-16-2023
|
"UBUNTU" HOW-TOs:
1-An Introduction to "Ubuntu" for Windows.. users
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/Ubuntu/1-Ubuntu-for-Win-users.pdf
2-To install "Zoom Meetings Client" into "Ubuntu" and other Linux distributions
please see
https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/204206269-Installing-or-updating-Zoom-on-Linux#h_75e1dc24-8db1-4b89-8db9-eb049f9b7987
Microsoft's advice on the three ways that you can install Linux into a computer
is available at
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/linux/install
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
10-16-2023
|
Free Online Training for Using Computers:
Hundreds of hours of free training and technical advice can be obtained online
with an Internet-connected computer.
To access our categorized folders
of training hyperlinks as various "dot URL files" which can be opened with any Web browser,
please follow the instructions at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/training/training.pdf
to access our
archive of Websites which is actually located at
https://app.box.com/shared/ff0p9m41h0
For macOS-specific instructions for accessing our categorized folders
of training hyperlinks as various "dot URL files" which can be opened with the Safari Web browser,
please follow the instructions at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/training/dot-url-files-macOS.pdf
For Linux-specific instructions for accessing our categorized folders
of training hyperlinks as various "dot URL files" which can be opened with the any Web browser,
please follow the instructions at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/training/dot-url-files-Ubuntu.pdf
The newer "Universal Windows Platform" Apps (such as the "Phone Link" app in Windows 11 or 10) will not allow you to right
click on them to place a shortcut into the Windows 11, 10, or 8 "Desktop".
To create shortcuts to all apps in
Windows 11,10, or 8, you have to run
shell:appsfolder
in a "Run"
command box as explained at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/pc-control/Making-Shortcuts-to-apps-in-Win11&10&8.pdf
The "uninstaller" wizards that are bundled with most "Desktop apps"
(that "Programs and Features" in the Control Panel of "Windows.." utilizes to remove software)
leave all sorts of junk in both your Registry of "Windows.." and on your C: hard drive:
To do a really clean uninstall of a "desktop app" or a "Universal Windows Platform app"
in a "Windows.." computer,
use the free "Revo Uninstaller Portable" program.
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/uninstaller/RevoUninstallerPortable.pdf
|
Meeting
of the
SouthEastern Michigan Computer Organization
on
09-08-2023
and
Meeting of the Seniors Computer Group of San Diego on 09-15-2018
and Joint Meeting of the Potomac Area Technology and Computer Society and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Computer User Group
on 01-19-2013
|
0-Zoom Basics
are explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/Zoom/Zoom-basics.pdf
1-Zoom's "Take Control" feature can be used to help a Windows.. computer user without being physically present at their home or business:
please see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/remote-assistance/Zoom-remote-control.pdf
2- Zoom's Auto-Answer Capability Can Be Used to Communicate with your Dog, Cat, or Small Child
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/webcams/Zoom-auto-answer.pdf
Zoom's auto-answer capability is not available in their free accounts.
Their auto-answer is only availabe in their "Pro", "Corporate", or "Zoom Room" accounts.
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
09-18-2023
|
10: STREAMING MEDIA BASICS: CAPTURE, AND SCREEN RECORDING
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/10-streaming_basics.pdf
91: FREE "SCREEN RECORDING" WITH THE BUNDLED "XBOX GAME BAR"
IN "WINDOWS 11.." AND "WINDOWS 10.."
is explained at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/91-free-screen-record-xbox-game-bar.pdf
71: INSTALLING THE "MEDIA CAPTURE" WITH THE "aTube Catcher" PROGRAM
is explained at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/71-aTube-installing.pdf
72: USING "aTube Catcher" TO CAPTURE STEAMING MEDIA
AT THE NETWORK STACK OF A "WINDOWS.." COMPUTER
is explained at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/72-aTube-media-capture.pdf
73: FREE "aTube Catcher" TO RECORD STREAMING VIDEO
AT THE GRAPHICS INTEFACE OF "WINDOWS.."
is explained at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/73-aTube-screen-recording.pdf
81: FREE "SCREEN RECORDING" WITH THE "Free Cam" PROGRAM
is explained at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/81-Free-Cam-screen-record-iSpring.pdf
201: MacOS SCREEN RECORDING AND MEDIA CAPTURE
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/201-MacScreenRecordandMediaCapture.pdf
301: LINUX SCREEN RECORDING AND MEDIA CAPTURE
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/301-LinuxScreenRecordandMediaCapture.pdf
|
General Meeting of the
Central Florida Computer Society
on
09-10-2023
|
The "uninstaller" wizards that are bundled with most "Desktop apps"
(that "Programs and Features" in the Control Panel utilizes to remove software)
leave all sorts of junk in both your Registry of "Windows.." and on your C: hard drive:
To do a really clean uninstall of a "desktop app" or a "Universal Windows Platform app"
in a "Windows.." computer,
use the free "Revo Uninstaller Portable" program.
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/uninstaller/RevoUninstallerPortable.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Brookdale Computer Users Group on
10-26-2017
and
Windows 10 /
Hardware
SIG Meeting
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
10-04-2017
|
10: STREAMING MEDIA: BASICS, CAPTURE, AND SCREEN RECORDING
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/10-streaming_basics.pdf
12: ENDLESS STREAMING MEDIA
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/12-streaming-endless.pdf
13: SINGLE FILE STREAMING
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/13-streaming_single_file.pdf
14: STREAMING SEQUENTIAL CHUNKS
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/14-streaming_chunks.pdf
20: MEDIA CAPTURE (AT THE NETWORK STACK)
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/20-media_capture.pdf
21: "TORTURE TEST" FOR "MEDIA CAPTURE" SOFTWARE
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/21-media_capture_test.pdf
31: "SCREEN RECORDING" WHEN "MEDIA CAPTURE" IS BLOCKED"
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/31-screen_recording.pdf
41: "MEDIA CAPTURE" VERSUS "SCREEN RECORDING"
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/41-media_capture_vs_screen_recording.pdf
103: "REPLAY MEDIA CATCHER" --OVERVIEW
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/103-ReplayMediaCatcher-overview.pdf
104: USING "STREAM DOWNLOADER" IN "REPLAY MEDIA CATCHER" FOR "MEDIA CAPTURE"
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/104-ReplayMediaCatcher-media_capture.pdf
105: USING "DIGITAL VIDEO RECORDER" IN "REPLAY MEDIA CATCHER"
FOR LIMITED "SCREEN RECORDING""
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/105-ReplayMediaCatcher-screen_record.pdf
106: "REPLAY VIDEO CAPTURE" FOR FULL-FEATURED "SCREEN RECORDING"
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/media/106-ReplayVideoCapture.pdf
|
Meeting
of
Wisconsin All-computer Users Club
of
Milwaukee
on
07-11-2019
and
Meeting
of
CPUser Group
of
Pennsylvania
on
06-11-2019
and
Meeting
of the
Winners Windows Users
of
Irvine, California
on
09-29-2018
and
Windows 10 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
09-05-2018
|
The "uninstaller" wizards that are bundled with most "Desktop apps"
(that "Programs and Features" in the Control Panel utilizes to remove software)
leave all sorts of junk in both your Registry of "Windows.." and on your C: hard drive:
To do a really clean uninstall of a "desktop app" or a "Universal Windows Platform app"
in a "Windows.." computer,
use the free "Revo Uninstaller Portable" program.
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/uninstaller/RevoUninstallerPortable.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Brookdale Computer Users Group on
10-26-2017
and
Windows 10 /
Hardware
SIG Meeting
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
10-04-2017
|
2: Cell Phone Navigation Apps:
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/2-cell-phone-map-apps.pdf
9: Android Cell Phones Versus iPhones
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/9-Android-cell phones-vs.pdf
10: Cell Phone Problems
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/10-cell-phone-problems.pdf
11: Cellular 911
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/11-cellular-911.pdf
Using an iPhone:
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/iPhone-using.pdf
Using an Android phone:
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/AndroidPhone-using.pdf
Cellular Service Analysis:
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/cellular-analysis.pdf
Use the "nPerf" app or Web site to get a street-level map to show which cell carrier has 5G/4G/3G/2G service at a specific location:
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/5Gvs4G-maps.pdf
Determining of a 5G cell phone is running 5G or 4G:
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/cell-phone-running-5G-or-4G.pdf
Cell Phone Screenshots:
Most small cell phones let you take a photo of the entire touch-screen.
This let's you make a permanent record of what you saw on the screen at a certain point in time at a certain location.
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/cell-phone-screenshots
Cell Phone to Camera Adapter:
A cell phone to camera adapter is an external add-on device that connects to your cell phone. The adapter then provides you with a USB port that you can use to connect to a camera,
a USB-to-Ethernet adapter, or an SD/SDHC reader.
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/cell-phone-to-camera-adapter.pdf
Cell Phone Wallet Apps:
A wallet app lets you make both in-person "Point of Sale" purchases and online purchases.
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/cell-phone-wallet-apps.pdf
Print from a Cell Phone:
You can print from a cell phone to a printer that is connected to your local network:
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/print-from cell phone.pdf
Tethering A Cell Phone
:
If your cell phone has a "data plan", you can use it to provide an Internet connection for a computer, a tablet, or another cell phone, or some routers.
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/cell-phone-tethering.pdf
You can tether an Android cell phone to another device so that it provides Internet access
for the other device if your Android cell phone has a data plan, a Wi-Fi connection to a Wi-Fi router,
or both a data plan AND a Wi-Fi connection to a Wi-Fi router.
You can only tether an "iPhone" cell phone that has a "data plan"
to provide Internet connectivity for a computer, tablet, or another cell phone.
If you "iPhone" does not have a "data plan" and it only connects to the Internet by means of Wi-Fi to a wireless router or a "hotspot",
you cannot tether it to provide Internet connectivity for a computer, tablet, or another cell phone.
Burner Phones and Burner Phone Apps:
A "burner phone" is either a cheap, throwaway cell phone or a not-free app that gives you temporary, no-caller-ID phone numbers for your existing cell phone.
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/burner-phones.pdf
Vertical Service Codes:
"Vertical service codes" have various functions such as:
--suppress the display of your phone number at the caller ID device or cell phone of the called party
--determine the radio frequencies that your cell phone is transmitting and receiving at.
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/vertical-service-codes.pdf
Cell Phone Problems:
When the call center agent of a cell phone carrier configures your new cell phone, they can misconfigure it and turn your shiny new cell phone into a useless brick.
Therefore, you need to run a few tests of any cell phone that has been recently configured by a cell phone carrier.
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/cell-phone-problems.pdf
"Sideloading" Apps into Cell Phones:
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/Sideloading.pdf
|
Meeting
of the
SouthEastern Michigan Computer Organization
on
06-11-2023
and
General Meeting
of the
Computer Booters of Sun Lakes, AZ
on
03-09-2022
and
Cell Phones & Tablets Meeting
of the
Wisconsin All-computer Users Club
on
02-25-2021
and
General Meeting of the
Central Florida Computer Society
on
12-13-2020
and
Meeting of the
PCBUG-Naples Technology User Group
on
07-16-2020
and
Windows 10 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
07-16-2020
and
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Costa Mesa,
California
on
03-20-2019
|
0-Virtual Machines--An Overview
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/virtualmachines/virtualnetworks/0-virtual-machines-overview.pdf
1-A Comparison Of Free "Virtual Machine Programs" For Your Real "Windows.." Computer
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/virtualmachines/virtualnetworks/1-comparison-vm-programs.pdf
2-Installing Free "Virtual Machine Programs" For Your Real "Windows.." Computer
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/virtualmachines/virtualnetworks/2-installing-vm-programs.pdf
3-Installing "Virtual Machines" via virtual hard drives from osboxex.com
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/virtualmachines/virtualnetworks/3-installing-virtual-machines-osboxes.com.pdf
4-Installing "Virtual Machines" via the virtual machine program
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/virtualmachines/virtualnetworks/4-installing-virtual-machines-generic.pdf
Virtual Networks In Virtual Machine Programs
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/virtualmachines/virtualnetworks/virtualnetworks-Windows.pdf
Copying or Moving VMware Virtual Machines
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/virtualmachines/virtualnetworks/movingVMwareVMs.pdf
Copying or Moving VirtualBox Virtual Machines
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/virtualmachines/virtualnetworks/movingVirtualBoxVMs.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Madison PC Users Group on
08-09-2023
and
General Membership Meeting
of the
Dayton Microcomputer Association
on 05-25-2021
and
General Meeting
of the
Western New York Computer Society
on 06-24-2014
and
Windows 8 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on 05-01-2013
and
Computer Technology Conference
on 04-04-2013
|
The "uninstaller" wizards that are bundled with most "Desktop apps"
(that "Programs and Features" in the Control Panel utilizes to remove software)
leave all sorts of junk in both your Registry of "Windows.." and on your C: hard drive:
To do a really clean uninstall of a "desktop app" or a "Universal Windows Platform app"
in a "Windows.." computer,
use the free "Revo Uninstaller Portable" program.
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/uninstaller/RevoUninstallerPortable.pdf
If you ever need to remove "VMware Workstation Pro"
or "VMware Workstation Player" or "Oracle Virtualbox 7.."
from a "Windows.." computer, please use the free "Revo Uninstaller Portable" app to remove them from your computer.
Using the Free "Windows 11 Enterprise Evaluation":
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win11/win11enteval.pdf
To extend the trial duration of "Windows 10 Enterprise Evaluation"
for a second 90-day time span
see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win11/extendingwin11eval.pdf
Using the Free "Windows 10 Enterprise Evaluation":
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win10/win10enteval.pdf
To extend the trial duration of "Windows 10 Enterprise Evaluation"
for a second 90-day time span
see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win10/extendingwin10eval.pdf
When running virtual machines in a "Windows.." computer, you need to speed up both your host computer's "Windows.." operating system AND any copies of "Windows.." that you are running inside a virtual machine:
"Speeding Up Windows 10"
is available at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/speedupWindows/win10speedup.pdf
"Speeding Up Windows 11"
is available at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/speedupWindows/win11speedup.pdf
In addition to the above version-specific procedures, the following procedure applies to any "Windows.." computer:
"Turn Off Startup Programs to Speed Up Your Windows Computer"
|
General Meeting
of the
Brookdale Computer Users Group on
10-26-2017
and
Windows 10 /
Hardware
SIG Meeting
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
10-04-2017
|
5G "Fixed Wireless Access"
for low-cost Internet
is explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/FWA/fixed-wireless-access.pdf
Our how-to advice for installing a
"T-Mobile Home Internet" gateway
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/FWA/Installing-T-Mobile-gateway.pdf
Our how-to advice for installing a
"Verizon Home Internet" gateway
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/FWA/Installing-Verizon-gateway.pdf
Our speed comparison of
"T-Mobile Home Internet" and "Verizon Home Internet"
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/FWA/T-Mobile-vs-Verizon-FWA.pdf
To get a quality Internet connection from an MNO or an MVNO, you need to be located less than 3 miles from one of their cell towers. Use the two mapping sites together, as explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/FWA/cell-tower-maps.pdf
You can spend some money and follow the instructions at the waveform.com Web site to procure and retrofit an external "donor antenna" for a "Fixed Wireless Access" gateway device to get it to work, if your current location does not have enough of a 5G cellular signal
as explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/FWA/donor-antennas.pdf
As the data signals from your computer leave your home or business and they travel to their final destination out in the Internet cloud, you can track
first few routers that your data signals travel
through by following the instructions at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/FWA/tracking-Internet.access.pdf
You can have both a regular broadband Internet provider AND a tethered cell phone or a 5G Fixed Wireless Access Internet connection
connected at the same time to your computer,
if you follow the guidelines at
https://apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/multihoming.pdf
|
General Meeting
of
Wisconsin All-computer Users Club
of
Milwaukee
on
04-06-2023
and
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
03-20-2023
|
Extending USB 2, USB 3, and USB C with active extension cables:
Active USB extension cables have chipsets at the equipment end and sometimes in the middle of the cable.
These chipsets clean up and regenerate the digital USB signals to prevent errors from occuring.
If you have USB 3 devices such as
USB 3 Webcams
USB 3 flash drives
USB 3 Ethernet adapters
USB 3 over-the-air TV tuners
or
cell phones that act like USB Ethernet adapters for tethering,
do not connect them to active USB 2 cables.
USB 3 devices will often cause active USB 2 extension cables to overheat.
Instead, connect USB 3 devices to active USB 3 extension cables.
See
http://aztcs/meeting_notes/winhardsig/USB3/USB-extending.pdf
USB 3 extension cables work fine for extending USB 2 devices
such as USB keyboards, USB mice, USB Webcams, USB 2 flash drives, USB 2 external hard drives,
and USB 2 external hard drive
ures with a standardized total cable length of 5 meters
written into the USB 2 standards and a standardized total cable length of 3 meters (9.8 feet)
that was originally written into the USB 2 standards.
However, for USB 3 external hard drives, USB 3 external hard drive enclosures, and other USB 3 devices, you will have to determine if a specific USB 3 device
works with a specific total length of USB 3 extension cable
and a specific USB 3 port on your computer or USB 3 hub.
To do so, you can use the free "USBTreeView" program to view the stablity and signalling rate of a specific USB 3 external hard drive or a specific USB 3 hard drive enclosure.
To download "USBTreeView", go to the bottom of the Web page at
http://www.uwe-sieber.de/usbtreeview_e.html
"USBTreeView" is especially useful for detecting problems with USB 3 ports and USB 3 devices:
When you have a USB 3 device attached to a USB 3 port and the port type changes from "3.0" to "2.0"
or a USB 3 device disappears from view entirely, a failure of the attached USB 3 devices,
or the connecting USB 3 cable or the USB 3 port is imminent.
You can determined which of these three items is about to fail by substituting with a "known good" USB 3 port,
a "known good" (or shorter) USB 3 cable, or a "known good" USB 3 device.
Wi-Fi 6E will alleviate RF congestion by providing new channels in the 6 Gigahertz radio band:
http://aztcs/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/Wi-Fi6E.pdf
Wi-Fi 6 versus Wi-Fi 5 versus 802.11n versus Gigabit Ethernet:
http://aztcs/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/Wi-Fi6vs5vs4vsGigEnet.pdf
Using the free "Speedtest.net" apps or Website to measure Internet Speeds
To Remediate Bottlenecks In Your Local Network:
Your broadband Internet download and upload speeds will usually be much slower than the speeds
at which the network devices on your local network run at.
However, many home and business networks have old, tired network components that bottleneck
your actual Internet speeds below what the Internet provider is providing at the broadband modem
which is actually available at the Internet "point of entry" .
To prevent the components of your local network (routers, switches, powerline links, etc.)
from bottlenecking the Internet bandwidth that your Internet Service Provider (ISP) provides you,
measure the Internet bandwidth speeds and the local area network speeds at various locations in your Local Area Network (LAN)
as described in
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/bottlenecks/bottlenecks.pdf
|
Computer Pros SIG
Meeting
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
12-18-2020
and
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California
on
07-28-2018
and
Windows 10/
Hardware
SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
08-01-2018
|
0-Free Video Editing Apps for "Windows..", "macOS", and "..Linux.." Computers
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/videoedit/0-video-edit-options.pdf
1-A Rigorous Evaluation Process for Evaluating Video Editing Apps
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/videoedit/1-video-edit-eval.pdf
2-Media Files For Testing Video Editing Apps
are described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/videoedit/2-videoedit-media-files.pdf
The actual media files that we used are available as a ZIP file at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/videoedit/SampleMediaFiles.zip
3-Basic Information for Using Video Editing Apps
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/videoedit/3-videoedit-basics.pdf
"Microsoft Clipchamp"
is a very powerful program that has a watermark-free free version for "Windows 11", "Windows 10", "macOS", and ..Linux..
Information about using "Microsoft Clipchamp" in "Windows.."
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/videoedit/Clipchamp/Clipchamp-Windows.pdf
---------------
Information about using "Microsoft Clipchamp" in "Ubuntu" Linux
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/videoedit/Clipchamp/Clipchamp-Ubuntu.pdf
---------------
Information about using "Microsoft Clipchamp" in a "ChromeOS Flex" computer
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/videoedit/Clipchamp/Clipchamp-ChromeOS.pdf
---------------
Information about using "Microsoft Clipchamp" in "macOS"
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/videoedit/Clipchamp/Clipchamp-macOS.pdf
"Kdenlive" is a very powerful video editing app that works in Windows.., ..Linux, and "macOS".
Basic information about using "Kdenlive"
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/videoedit/Kdenlive/Kdenlive-basics.pdf
NCH's "Videopad" app
is a user-friendly program that is free for non-commercial home use as described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/videoedit/VideoPad/VideoPad.pdf
|
"Wednesday Workshop"
of the
APCUG
on
07-26-2023
and
General Meeting of the
Durham PC Users Club
of
Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
on
07-13-2020
and
General Meeting of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
02-17-2020
|
If you have a spare computer that is tool old or slow for Windows.. or Linux..,
you can install the free "ChromeOS Flex" into it to turn it into a "do-it-yourself "Chromebook"
as explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/chromebooks/ChromeOSflex.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
02-21-2022
|
1-Data Recovery from Hard Drives and SSDs
is explained in detail at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/winhardsig/harddrives/recover-data/1-recover-data.pdf
-------------
2-USB adapters for connecting various types of Hard Drives and SSDs
are described at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/winhardsig/harddrives/2-USB-adapters-to-connect-drive.pdf
-------------
3-Not-Free Professional Software and Cleanroom Operations For Recovering Data Files From Failed Hard Drives:
If the above procedures fail to restore the hard drive and the hard drive has data
that you or the end-user deem worth spending one to five thousand dollars to recover,
On-Track's not-free software for recovering data from hard drives is described at
https://www.ontrack.com/en-us/data-recovery/software
If their proprietary not-free software fails to recover the data files, you then have the option of ship the hard drive to their clean room operation in Minnesota
where they will open it up, read each platter in specialized equipment.
Then they use their proprietary computers to reconstruct the data files on the hard drive.
Then they ship the recovered data back to you on external hard drives or DVD-R discs.
See
http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9022458/Surviving_a_home_data_disaster_How_Shirley_got_her_files_back?pageNumber=1
where Ontrack's software was used successfully and the author was able to retrieve 10 years of data files from a failed hard drive without having to send the drive to Ontrack's clean room in Minnesota.
------------
Driversavers is a highly-rated cleanroom service for recovering data from failed hard drives.
They do not have any proprietary software to sell you but their clean-room operation is very competent.
Their Website is locate at
http://www.drivesaversdatarecovery.com
|
Meeting
of the
SouthEastern Michigan Computer Organization
on
07-09-2023
and
Windows 10 / Hardware
SIG Meeting
on
09-04-2019 |
RESTORING DATA FROM EXTERNAL HARD DRIVES AND EXTERNAL SSDs
External hard drives and external SSDs usually fail faster than internal hard drives and internal SSDs because of the horrible "USB-to-SATA"controller boards that are placed inside them.
For external hard drives that have "USB-to-SATA" controller boards, you can take advantage of this by "shucking" the entombed internal hard drive or SSD and using a separate USB-to-SATA adapter to extract data from the embeded hard drive as explained above at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/windhardsig/harddrives/external/recovering-ext-drives.pdf
"CrystalDiskInfo Portable"
is available for free at
https://portableapps.com/apps/utilities/crystaldiskinfo_portable
For videos that show you how to disassemble specific models of external hard drives and external SSDs
please see
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/windhardsig/harddrives/external/disassembly-external-drives.pdf
If removing the "USB-to-SATA" controller board of an external hard drive or an external SSD does not resolve the problem,
you can then go through the logical steps for recovering data from the formerly-embedded internal hard drive or SSDs
as described at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/windhardsig/harddrives/recover-data/1-recover-data.pdf
You can build your own external USB hard drives that can outlast the ones that are currently sold at retail
by following the advice at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/external/DY-ext-drives.pdf
You can avoid the costs of buying USB drive adapters for do-it-yourself external USB drives by installing long SATA data cables and SATA power extension cables
from inside your computer to normally-internal SATA hard drives and SSDs that are located outside of a computer
by following the advice at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/external/addiging-ext-internal-drives.pdf
|
Meeting
of the
SouthEastern Michigan Computer Organization
on
07-09-2023
and
General Meeting
of the
Madison PC Users Group on
02-08-2023
|
Radical "Surgery" to Extend the Life of Failed Hard Drives:
If you are unable to recover the data files from a failed hard drive and it's platters are still spinning,
you can sometimes use "Disk Management" in "Windows" to create partitions
to "block out" the bad sections of the hard drive,
in order to extend the userful life of the hard drive. See
Perform Radical Surgery on a Hard Drive in Order to Extend Its Useful Service Life
at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/repairing/080-HDradicalsurgeryrepair.pdf"
|
Meeting
of the
SouthEastern Michigan Computer Organization
on
07-09-2023
and
Windows 10 / Hardware
SIG Meeting
on
09-04-2019
|
WIPING "WINDOWS.." HARD DRIVES TO PREPARE THEM FOR DONATION OR GIFTING
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/wipe-free-space/hard-drive-wiping.pdf:
If you want to give away a computer and/or it's hard drive,
you have a choice of whether to give away the hard drive with the computer.
If you decide to give away the hard drive with the computer, you have to decide if you want to give away the legal copy of Windows.. on the hard drive.
If you want to give away the legal copy of Windows.. that is on a hard drive,
then you also need to remove your data files and photos and then "wipe free space" on the hard drive to make sure that the recipient of the computer
cannot recover any data files are lurking in the "free space" of the hard drive.
The "uninstaller" wizards that are bundled with most "Desktop apps"
(that "Programs and Features" in the Control Panel utilizes to remove software)
leave all sorts of junk in both your the "Registry" of "Windows.." and on the C: hard drive:
To do a really clean uninstall of a "desktop app" or a "Universal Windows Platform app"
in a "Windows.." computer,
use the free "Revo Uninstaller Portable" program.
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/uninstaller/RevoUninstallerPortable.pdf
|
Meeting of the
PCBUG-Naples Technology User Group
on
06-17-2021
and
Windows 10 / Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
11-21-2019
|
"Windows 11" activation and "Windows 10" activation is way different
from any version of "Windows.." prior to "Windows 10"!!
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win11/activation/win11&10activation.pdf
If you use a purchased a "Windows 11 product key" to activate a
newly-installed or upgraded copy of "Windows 11", you will still have a "Digital License".
If you link your Microsoft Account to your Windows account, you get the ability to use the "Activation Troubleshooter"
in "Windows 11" to activate after changing out your computer's motherboard.
However, you then have to log into "Windows 11" with your "Microsoft Account".
If you go back to logging into "Windows 11" with a "Local Account",
you lose your ability to use the "Windows 11 Activation Troubleshooter" to change your computer's motherboard.
Activation for product versions of "Windows.." prior to "Windows 10.." is much more complex
as explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win/windows-activation.pdf
The activation process for "Windows 11.." differs depending on the "Product Key Channel"
that a specific copy of "Windows 11.." is sold from.
For the end-user of a "Windows 11.." computer, their are three possible "Product Key Channels":
Retail channel,
OEM_DM channel
(= "Original Equipment Manufacturer_Direct to Manufacturer")
and
OEM_COA_NSLP channel
(="Original Equipment Manufacturer_Certificate of Authenticity_Non-System Locked Pre-installation" = "OEM System Builder")
For details on how each one of these "channels" result in an activated "instance" of "Windows 10",
see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win10/activation/win10-channels.pdf
where we explain that the 25-character "Activation Keys" that are stored in the Registry in "Windows 10.." are of no actual use to the user of a "Windows 10.." computer.
For organizations that buy lots of copies of "Windows..", there are two volume licensing channels:
"Volume_MAK" channel (= "Multiple Activation Key")
and
"Volume_KMS" channel (="Key Management Services")
|
Meetings
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Costa Mesa
California
on
03-20-2019
|
For more details on how activation works for both "Windows 11" and "Windows 10"
please see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win11/activation/win11&10activation.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
06-19-2022
and
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
06-19-2022
|
USING YOUR WINDOWS.. OR LINUX COMPUTER, YOU CAN TAKE CONTROL OF AN ANDROID CELL PHONE Using two no-cost software apps, an Android cell phone will show up in a
Windows 11 or 10 computer or in a Linux computer as a window that looks exactly like the screen of the Android phone. From this window, you can make and receive phone calls and text messages and operate all of the apps that are inside the cell phone:
1--CONTROLLING AN ANDROID CELL PHONE FROM A WINDOWS.. OR LINUX.. COMPUTER:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/pc-control/1-control-android-from-Win-or-Linux.pdf
2A--CONTROLLING AN ANDROID CELL PHONE USING "PHONE LINK" IN A "WINDOWS.." COMPUTER WITH THE CELL PHONE CONNECTED VIA Wi-Fi TO A LOCAL ROUTER:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/pc-control/2-a-PhoneLink-via-Wi-Fi-to-router.pdf
2B--CONTROLLING AN ANDROID CELL PHONE USING "PHONE LINK" IN A "WINDOWS.." COMPUTER WITH THE CELL PHONE CONNECTED WITH AN ETHERNET DONGLE TO A LOCAL ROUTER:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/pc-control/2-b-PhoneLink-via-enet-to-router.pdf
2C--CONTROLLING AN ANDROID CELL PHONE USING "PHONE LINK" IN A "WINDOWS.." COMPUTER, WITH THE WITH THE "WINDOWS.." COMPUTER AND THE CELL PHONE CONNECTED TO EACH OTHER OVER THE INTERNET, AND WITH THE CELL PHONE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET USING IT'S "DATA PLAN":
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/pc-control/2-c-PhoneLink-via-DataPlan.pdf
3--CONTROLLING AN ANDROID CELL PHONE USING "scrcpy" IN WINDOWS.. OR LINUX:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/pc-control/3-control-android-with-scrcpy.pdf
The newer "Universal Windows Platform" Apps (such as the "Phone Link" app in Windows 11 or 10) will not allow you to right
click on them to place a shortcut into the Windows 11, 10, or 8 "Desktop".
To create shortcuts to all apps in
Windows 11,10, or 8, you have to run
"shell:appsfolder" in a "Run"
command box as explained at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/pc-control/Making-Shortcuts-to-apps-in-Win11&10&8.pdf
|
PC-Tech Users Group
of
Burnt Hills, NY on
06-15-2022
and
General Meeting of the
Central Florida Computer Society
on
06-12-2022
and
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
11-15-2021
|
For more details on how activation works for both "Windows 11" and "Windows 10"
please see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win11/activation/win11&10activation.pdf
You can run Ubuntu Linux or another other distribution of Linux inside a virtual machine inside various configurations of "virtual machine program" and host operating systems
as explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/Ubuntu-as-VM-guest/Ubuntu-as-VM-guest.pdf
Real Uses For A "Ubuntu Desktop" Linux computer Or Virtual Machine:
1. If you want to connect a Ubuntu Linux computer to a Wi-Fi "Wireless Access Point", you will have to install a Wi-Fi adapter
as described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/networks/Wi-Fi-adapter-Ubuntu.pdf
2. Printing to printers with an "Ubuntu.." Linux computer.
3: Scanning paper documents and hard copy photos with a "Ubuntu.." Linux computer, using the free "XSane" app or the not-free "VueScan" app.
4: Sending and receiving faxes with a "Ubuntu.." Linux computer, using the free "efax-gtk" app
is explained at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/fax/fax-Ubuntu.pdf
5. Watching over-the-air television with a "Ubuntu.." Linux computer, using the free "Kaffeine" app
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
06-19-2022
|
Using Your Computer to Scan Paper Documents and Photos
You can turn paper documents and photos into high-resolution computer files
by using a flat-bed scanner to scan them into the hard drive(s) of a computer.
Detailed information about scanning with a "Windows.." computer
is available at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/scanners/scanning-Win-GIMP.pdf
Detailed information about scanning with a "Ubuntu" Linux computer
is available at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/scanners/scanning-Ubuntu.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
05-15-2023
|
A video of the George Harding's report on "CES 2023"
is available at
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5yA94LPPeE
A video of the Pre-CES 2023 "Technology Trends" keynote speech
is available at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/2023-01-03-CES2023.mp4
|
General Meetings
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
03-20-2023
and
02-20-2023
|
"WINDOWS SUBSYSTEM FOR LINUX" (WSL)
is described in step-by-step detail at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/WSL/WSL.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
01-16-2023
|
Physical Security for Computers and Network Equipment:
Three Models of Security Slots on Laptops
as explained at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/windhardsig/physical-security/physical-hardware.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
11-21-2022
|
Relocate Your Document and Photo Files to a Bigger Drive
is explained at
http://www.aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win/easier/known-folders-relocate/to-another-drive
Simple techniques for making your "Windows.." computer easier to use
are explained at
http://www.aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win/easier/win-easier1.pdf
You can dispense wih the complexity of dual-booting by installing Linux on an extenal USB hard drive or an extenal USB SSD. Then, if you set USB drives to have a higher boot priority relative to the existing Windows hard drive, you computer will boot up into Linux whenever the USB drive that has Linux installed in it is attahed to a USB port of the computer
as explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/boot-up-options/Linux-boot-up-Win-PC.pdf:
A detailed description of the
Four Types of Software Apps in a Windows.. computer
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/program-types-win.pdf
The "uninstaller" wizards that are bundled with most "Desktop apps" and "Windows Apps"
leave all sorts of junk in both your Registry of "Windows.." and on your C: hard drive:
To do a really clean uninstall of a "desktop app" or a "Windows app"
in a "Windows.." computer,
use the free "Revo Uninstaller Portable" program.
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/uninstaller/RevoUninstallerPortable.pdf
To make a desktop shortcut to a "Windows App", you have to use the
shell:appsfolder
command from a "Run" box,
as explained step-by-step at
https://www.techrepublic.com/article/how-to-use-the-shell-command-to-view-all-your-applications-in-file-explorer/
Malware often "hides" in hidden files and folders so please make sure that your computer is displaying hidden files and file extensions by following our procedure in how how-to document called "Some Simple Techniques For Making 'Windows..' Easier To Use"
at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win/easier/win-easier1.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
09-19-2022
|
To do any serious work with an
Android app, you will probably have
to run it inside a "Windows.."
computer: Here are the ways that you
can do it now and in the future
as explained at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/windhardsig/Android-emulate/AndroidAppsInWindows.pdf.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
04-18-2022
|
"Windows.." Operating System Numbering
is explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win11/WindowsOSnumbering.pdf
The "uninstaller" wizards that are bundled with most "Desktop apps"
(that "Programs and Features" in the Control Panel utilizes to remove software)
leave all sorts of junk in both your Registry of "Windows.." and on your C: hard drive:
To do a really clean uninstall of a "desktop app" or a "Universal Windows Platform app"
in a "Windows.." computer,
use the free "Revo Uninstaller Portable" program.
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/uninstaller/RevoUninstallerPortable.pdf
Simple techniques for making your "Windows.." computer easier to use
are explained at
http://www.aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win/easier/win-easier1.pdf
There are three kinds of apps (= programs) inside your Windows 11, 10, or 8 computer:
UWP Apps, Legacy Programs, and Portable Apps
as explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/email/UWP-vs-legacy-apps.pdf
To make a desktop shortcut to a UWP app, you have to use the
shell:appsfolder
command,
as explained step-by-step at
https://www.techrepublic.com/article/how-to-use-the-shell-command-to-view-all-your-applications-in-file-explorer/
|
Program Meeting
of the
Rochester Computer Society
on
12-14-2021
and
General Meeting of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
10-18-2021
and
Meeting
of the
Sun City Center Computer Club
of
Florida, California
on
10-13-2021
and
Meeting
of the
SouthEastern Michigan Computer Organization
on
10-10-2021
|
For basic general instructions on how prepare "target" files and/or folders in your Windows.. computer so that other computers that are connected to the same router can access your "target" shared files and/or folders,
see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/FileSharing/0-prep-file-or-folder-sharing-in-Win.pdf
For basic general instructions on how to use a "Windows.. " computer
to access files and/or folders that are shared from another "Windows.." computer that is connected to the same router,
see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/FileSharing/1-basics-share-Win.pdf
|
General Meeting of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
09-20-2020
and
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California
on
Feb. 24, 2018
|
For detailed advice on Troubleshooting Printer Problems in a "Windows.." computer,
see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/printers/printer-fix-win.pdf
For our advice on
Troubleshooting Printer Problems in a "MacOS" computer,
see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/printers/printer-fix-mac.pdf
Issues and Workarounds for Setting Up Printers:
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/printers/printers--workarounds.pdf
If you are unable to make changes to a printer in a printer inside "Devices and Printers"
in Windows 7, 8.1, or 10, locate and click on the "Change Properties" button for the printer:
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/printers/Change-Properties-button-Win.pdf
If your printer is backed up with a stack of print jobs, here is a procedure for you to clear out the pile of pending print jobs
in a Windows.. computer:
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/printers/Print-queue-win.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Wisconsin All-Computer Users Club
on 07-05-2018
and
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California
on 04-28-2018
and
Windows 8 /
Hardware
SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on 01-02-2013
|
Free Up The C: Drive in "Windows 10" or "Windows 11"
us explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win10/free-up-C-drive/win10-free-up-C-drive.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
06-21-2021
|
Linux Distributions: Usage Share Versus distrowatch.com "Interest Level" Rankings
are explained at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/linuxsig/Linux-usage-share.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
01-18-2021
<
br /> |
WAYS TO RUN REALLY OLD SOFTWARE PROGRAMS
INSIDE YOUR "WINDOWS 10.." OR "WINDOWS 7.." COMPUTER
see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/win10/old-software.pdf
USING "VMWARE WORKSTATION PLAYER" TO RUN A FREE, TIME-LIMITED COPY OF "WINDOWS 10.." IN A "VIRTUAL MACHINE" INSIDE THE FREE "VMWARE WORKSTATION PLAYER" PROGRAM INSIDE A REAL "WINDOWS.." COMPUTER:
"Big Step 100": Install the free "VMware Workstation Player" program into a "Windows.." host computer, see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/virtual machines/vmware-1-installing.pdf
"Big Step 200": Create a new "virtual machine" by using the "VMware Workstation Player" program, see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/virtual machines/vmware-2-createVM.pdf
"Big Step 300": Install "Windows.."into a "virtual machine"
, see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/virtual machines/vmware-3B-install-Win10EntEval.pdf
"Big Step 400": Install "VMware Tools" into a "Windows.." "virtual machine"
,
see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/virtual machines/ vmware-4B-install-VMwareTools-to-Win10.pdf
|
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California
on
03-20-2019
|
Using A Cell Phone to Provide a Video Camera for a Computer:
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cell-phones/cell-tether-plus-cam-for-Win.pdf
Using "Skype" As a "NannyCam":
You can set up a computer with a copy of Skype that auto-answers the calls that you make
to it as described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/Skype/Skype-auto-answer.pdf
|
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California
on 07-12-2014
|
RESOLVING SOUND ISSUES IN "WINDOWS.."
"Windows 11", "Windows 10", "Windows 8.1", and "Windows 7" computers have many sound-enabled devices that automatically re-configure themselves as "default" when you do not want them to do so. Our explanation of how you can tame this "beast"
is available at
http://www.aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win/easier
/win-sound.pdf
Some computer sound equipment
that I recommend
is described at
http://www.aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win/easier/computer-sound-equipment.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Madison PC Users Group on
02-10-2021
and
Windows 10 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society on
09-06-2017
|
"Google accounts" and YouTube "..channels":
To make the most effective use of a YouTube channel,
you need to know the relationships between "Google accounts", Google "Brand accounts",
and the two types of YouTube "channels".
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/Google/Google&YouTube.pdf
|
East-Central Ohio Technology Users Club on
01-17-2021
and
Columbus Computer Society on
01-20-2021
|
Since "Windows 10..", Microsoft has gradually "deprecated" the ability for you to use "netplwiz" or "control userpasswords2" or "regedit" to make "Windows 11" or "Windows 10" log in automatically.
At the present time, the only reliable way to make "Windows 11" or "Windows 10.." log in in automatically during a power-on bootup or a restart is to use Microsoft's "Autologon" utility
which can be obtained at
https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/downloads/autologon
|
Windows../
Hardware segment of the General Meeting of
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
01-18-2021
and
Windows 10 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
06-06-2018
and
03-07-2018
and
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California
on
Feb. 24, 2018
|
CLOUD STORAGE SERVICES
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cloudstorage/cloudstorage.pdf
USING THE "GOOGLE DRIVE" CLOUD STORAGE SERVICE
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cloudstorage/GoogleDrive.pdf
USING THE "ONEDRIVE" CLOUD STORAGE SERVICE
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cloudstorage/OneDrive.pdf
USING THE "DROPBOX" CLOUD STORAGE SERVICE
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cloudstorage/Dropbox.pdf
USING THE "BOX" CLOUD STORAGE SERVICE
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cloudstorage/Box.pdf
USING THE "SYNC.COM" CLOUD STORAGE SERVICE
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/cloudstorage/Sync.com.pdf
The "uninstaller" wizards that are bundled with most "Desktop apps"
(that "Programs and Features" in the Control Panel utilizes to remove software)
leave all sorts of junk in both your Registry of "Windows.." and on your C: hard drive:
To do a really clean uninstall of a "desktop app" or a "Universal Windows Platform app"
in a "Windows.." computer,
use the free "Revo Uninstaller Portable" program.
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/uninstaller/RevoUninstallerPortable.pdf
|
Meetings
of the
PC Community Computer Users Group
at
Hayward
in
California, USA
on
01-08-2021
and
07-16-2019
and
General Meeting
of
Wisconsin All-computer Users Club
of
Milwaukee
on
09-03-2020
and
Meeting of the
Under the Computer Hood Users Group
on
08-05-2020
and
Four Seasons
Computer and Technology Club
in
Beaumont,
California
on
05-12-2020
and
Windows 10 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society on
05-21-2020
and
Meeting
of the
Villages Computer Club
at
Lynx Creek
at
Dewey, AZ
on
07-16-2019
and
General Meeting
of the
Sarasota Technology Users Group on
07-10-2019
and
General Meeting
of the
Sun City Shadow Hills Computer Club on
03-04-2016
and
Windows 10 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
03-08-2016
|
Image backups of Hard Drives in "Windows.." Computers
Our objective advice about image backups and restores for internal hard drives of Windows.. computers
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/utils/image-backup/image-backup.pdf
|
Window 10 / Hardware SIG Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
04-23-2019
|
Free Photo Editing Apps for "Windows..", "macOS", "iOS", "iPadOS", "Android", and "..Linux.."
are described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/photoedit/photoediting-free-basics.pdf
Adjustments for Improving Digital Photos
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/photoedit/photoedit-adjustments.pdf
Photo Editing Apps: A Rigorous Evaluation Process"
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/photoedit/photoedit-eval.pdf
Photo Editing Apps for "Windows..": A Capabilities Comparison
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/photoedit/photoedit-free-Win10-compare.pdf
Microsoft's "Photos" App
can be used without cost since it is bundled in any "Windows 11.." or "Windows 10.." computer
as described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/photoedit/Photos-app-in-Win10.pdf
Google's "Google Photos"
can be used without cost in any "Windows.." computer as described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/photoedit/GooglePhotos.pdf
"GIMP"
is a very powerful program that is also free as described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/photoedit/GIMP.pdf
Creating JPG Photo Files versus Creating RAW Photo Files
is described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/photoedit/photoedit-jpg-vs-raw.pdf
|
General Meeting
of
Wisconsin All-computer Users Club
of
Milwaukee
on
11-05-2020
|
USB-C
USB-C ports started showing up in computers about 4 years ago.
A "USB-C" port is an ovoid rectangle that is about one quarter the size
of a USB 3 Type A port.
However, it is actually a USB 2 port, a USB 3.1 port, a Thunderbolt 3 port, an HDMI port, an audio port,
a Displayport port, a charging-only port or any combination of the previously-listed port types.
The exact capabilities of any specific USB-C port in any specific computer that you buy
will be determined by the manufacturer of the computer.
These wonderful new features or horrible complexities (depending on your point of view) are explained at
http://www.aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/USB3/USB-C.pdf
USB-C's "Audio Adapter Accessory Mode":
USB-C's "Audio Adapter Accessory Mode" allows USB-C ports to accept audio signals
from wired headsets that have TRS plugs or a TRRS plug
when an "Audio Adapter Accessory Mode" converter is used to connect the TRS/TRRS plug(s) of the analog headset to the host's USB-C port.
This capability is used on some of the less-expensive Android cell phones.
This analog signal mode for USB-C is explained at
http://www.aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/USB3/USB-C-AudioAdapterAccMode.pdf
Thunderbolt 3 devices are not always plug-and-play:
You sometimes have to fire up the "Thunderbolt" app in a computer
and click on a problematic "Thunderbolt" device to turn it on.
If you do not know this, you might get the impression that a newly-inserted Thunderbolt 3 device is defective.
For step-by-step instructions on how to jump-start a problematic Thunderbolt 3 device, please see
http://www.aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/USB3/Thunderbolt3fix.pdf
|
Meeting of the
Under the Computer Hood Users Group
on
08-05-2020
and
Windows 10 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society on
09-06-2017
|
A detailed overview of
FREE SOFTWARE FOR A "WINDOWS.." COMPUTER
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/software-free.pdf
A detailed description of the
FOUR TYPES OF APPS IN A "WINDOWS.." COMPUTER
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/software/program-types-win.pdf:
|
Program Meeting
of the
Rochester Computer Society
on
11-12-2019
|
We have discovered that you can build a much more reliable "external hard drive"
by buying and the assembling the following parts, which are sold separately.
If you "home brew" your own external hard drives, you will also save money
relative to the cost of buying either an external hard drive enclosure or buying an external hard drive.
Here are the parts that you need to buy:
An internal SATA hard drive,
a fan assembly that bolts onto the internal SATA hard drive,
and
a SATA-to-USB 3.x adapter.
Our how-to instructions for "growing your own" external hard drives
or external hard drive enclosures
can be found at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/external/DYU-ext-USB-drives.pdf
When they break, most external USB hard drives can be repaired or recovered from
if you follow the brilliant technical advice
at
https://discussions.apple.com/docs/DOC-6121
When a part inside an external hard drive or an external SSD breaks,
you can save money and end up with a more reliable device if you substitute quality third-party parts
as described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/external/Parts-for-external.pdf
You can use the free and non-intrusive "CrystalDiskInfoPortable" to check the S.M.A.R.T. readings for most internal and external hard drives
as described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/CrystalDiskInfoPortable.pdf
|
Windows 10 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
09-05-2018
and
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California
on 04-28-2018
|
You can use the free and non-intrusive "CrystalDiskInfo"
to check the S.M.A.R.T. readings for most internal and external hard drives
as described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/CrystalDiskInfoPortable.pdf
Using the free "Speedtest.net" apps or Website to measure Internet Speeds
To Remediate Bottlenecks In Your Local Network:
Your broadband Internet download and upload speeds will usually be much slower
than the speeds at which the network devices on your local network run at.
However, many home and business networks have old, tired network components that bottleneck your actual Internet speeds below what the Internet provider is providing
at the broadband modem at the Internet "point of entry" .
To prevent the components of your local network (routers, switches, powerline links, etc.) from bottlenecking the Internet bandwidth that your Internet Service Provider (ISP) provides you,
measure the Internet bandwidth speeds and the local area network speeds at various locations in your Local Area Network (LAN)
as described in
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/networks/bottlenecks/bottlenecks.pdf
Getting into the UEFI (formerly called BIOS) configuration screens in "Windows 11" or "Windows 10":
Two ways to get into the UEFI configuration screens in "Windows 11" or "Windows 10":
METHOD ONE:
Use the computer manufacturer's proprietary key sequence during the power up of the computer.
METHOD TWO:
Use the buttons inside the "Settings" function inside "Windows 11" or "Windows 10.." as follows:
Use the left mouse button to click on the "Start button".
The "Start Menu" will show up.
Click on the "Settings" icon. (It looks like a gear wheel.)
Click on "Update & Security".
Click on "Recovery".
Click on "Advanced startup".
Click on the "Restart now" button.
Click on "Troubleshoot--Reset your PC or see advanced options".
Click on "Advanced options".
Click on "UEFI Firmware Settings".
Click on "Restart".
|
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California
on
07-28-2018
and
Windows 10/
Hardware
SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
08-01-2018
|
Most power supplies in Windows and Linux desktop computers conform to
or are close to adhering to Intel's ATX and ATX 12V standards. For our advice on replacing ATX.. power supplies,
see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/ATX/ATX-PS.pdf
|
Windows 10 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
03-07-2018
and
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California
on
Feb. 24, 2018
and
|
For our advice on how you can fix "Windows Update" in a "Windows 7" computer,
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/WindowsUpdate/Win7UpdateFix.pdf
For our advice on how you can fix "Windows Update" in a "Windows 11" or "Windows 10" computer,
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/WindowsUpdate/Win10UpdateFix.pdf
For our advice on how you can fix "Windows Update" in a "Windows 8.1" computer,
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/WindowsUpdate/Win8.1UpdateFix.pdf
|
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California on
01-27-2018
and
Windows 10 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
02-07-2018
|
Super Secure Web Surfing with a Virtual Machine and a Two-Router "DMZ" Configuration At Your Home or Business:
SECURE WEB ACCESS
WITH A "VMWARE" VIRTUAL MACHINE AND A TWO-ROUTER "DE-MILITARIZED ZONE" (DMZ)
|
Windows 10 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society on
11-01-2017
and
04-05-2017
|
The United States' Federal government information resource for identity theft is located at
https://www.usa.gov/identity-theft
Identifying and Managing Suspicious Email Messages
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/email/email-suspicious.pdf
To check out suspicious buttons and hyperlinks at Web sites and in email
to see the URL that the button or hyperlink is trying to take you to.
You might have to turn on the bottom status bar
and/or maximize the browser or email Window in order to see the bottom status bar.
Use the "Task Manager" in "Windows.." to close down a stuck or suspicious browser display
by either
pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc
or
right-clicking on unused space on the Task Bar and then selecting "Task Manager".
Use the "Force Quit" function in MacOS by pressing
Command + Option + Esc
in MacOS to close down a stuck or suspicious browser display.
|
Windows 10 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society on
09-06-2017
and
04-05-2017
|
Email Basics
Email--Advanced Techniques
"Google Takeout" Website Allows You to Download All of Your Gmail Into a Single Mbox File
|
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California on
08-26-2017
and
Main
Meeting
of the
North Orange
County
Computer Club
on
08-06-2017
and
Windows 10 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on 08-02-2017
|
For our advice on how you can silence your noisy computer,
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/computer-noise/computer-noise.pdf
|
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California on
05-27-2017
and
Windows 10 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
06-07-2017
|
The computer industry's "elegant solution" to secure remote access is called "Virtual Private Network" (VPN).
Almost every medium-to-large sized company, government entity, and not-for-profit institution including educational institutions uses privately-created and privately-hosted VPNs to provide employees, students, and contractors with remote access to their internal and cloud-based computer resources.
VPNs were originally intended to provide secure remote access into local area network resources such as servers, printers, and mainframes.
This technology has been adapted for private computer users as "VPN services":
"VPN services" give you an extra measure of security by protecting you from the more common hacks such as "man in the middle" spying, "Evil Twin" wireless access points, and WiFi over-the-air recordings with free tools such as "WireShark".
"VPN services" reduce most of the risk of using public Internet access by encrypting the near end of the Internet connection-- where you first connect to a public Internet service.
However, with the exception of the VPN that is part of the "Opera 40" Web browser, all "VPN services" reduce data throughput relative to what a "raw" Internet connection is capable of.
The terms "VPNs" and "VPN Services" are often used interchangeably so you have to figure out from the context in which these terms are used to determine whether someone means
the original VPN (which is a secure remote connection into a Local Area Network" or a "VPN Service" (which is a secure remote connection into the Internet which uses a local area network as an intermediary).
Web Sites For Testing Virtual Private Network Services:
http://whatismyipaddress.com/
http://www.ip2location.com/
http://www.tracemyip.org/
http://showip.net/
http://www.iplocationfinder.com/
https://www.dnsleaktest.com/
https://www.grc.com/x/ne.dll?bh0bkyd2
Using VPN Services As Temporary Workarounds For Slow Broadband Internet Access:
Sometimes you can use free VPN services as a temporary workaround for download and upload slowdowns in broadband Internet access:
For example, Comcast cable modem Internet in the Tucson area was very slow on Friday August 9, 2013 through Saturday August 10
with download and upload speeds so slow that they are unmeasurable. When we used the free version of "Hotspot Shield" VPN , we obtained usable Internet download speeds
above 20 Megabits per second and upload speeds above 1.5 Megabits per second (via our Comcast cable modems located in Tucson).
|
Windows 10/
Hardware
SIG
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
05-03-2017
and
10-05-2016
and
06-05-2013
and
Meeting of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California
on
09-24-2016
and
09-27-2014
|
Simple techniques for making your "Windows.." computer easier to use
are explained at
http://www.aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win/easier/win-easier1.pdf
A YouTube Video of the February 11, 2017 version of the above presentation
is available at
https://youtu.be/AbNTOcvkBNA
More-advanced techniques for making your "Windows.." computer easier to use can be found at
http://www.aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win/easier/win-easier2.pdf
|
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California on
02-25-2017
and
Virtual
Technology
Conference 23
of the
Association
of
PC
User Groups
(APCUG)
on
02-11-2017
and
Windows 10 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society on
04-01-2015
|
Getting into the UEFI configuration screens in "Windows 11" or "Windows 10":
Use the left mouse button to click on the "Start button".
The "Start Menu" will show up.
Click on the "Settings" icon. (It looks like a gear wheel.)
Click on "Update & security".
Click on "Recovery".
Click on "Restart now". (It is in the "Advanced startup" section.)
Clock on the Troubleshoot" button.
Click on the "Advanced options" button.
Click on "UEFI Firmware Settings" button.
Click on the "Restart" button.
|
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California on
01-28-2017
and
Windows 10 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
02-01-2017
|
Our how-to documentation on
"What to Do When Your Computer Will Not Boot--Part 1-The Basics"
is available
at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/will-not-boot/will-not-boot-part1.pdf
|
Virtual
Technology
Conference 22
of the
Association
of
PC
User Groups
(APCUG)
on
11-05-2016
and
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California
on
12-19-2015
|
Our how-to documentation on Computer Management in "Windows.." is available
at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/computer-management/computer-management.pdf
Here are some rigorous, logically-ordered procedures for speeding up any "Windows.." computer:
"Speeding Up Windows XP"
"Speeding Up Windows Vista"
"Speeding Up Windows 7"
"Speeding Up Windows 8 and Windows 8.1"
"Speeding Up Windows 10"
is available at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/speedupWindows/win10speedup.pdf
"Speeding Up Windows 11"
is available at
https://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/speedupWindows/win11speedup.pdf
In addition to the above version-specific procedures, the following procedure applies to any "Windows.." computer:
"Turn Off Startup Programs to Speed Up Your Windows Computer"
|
Meetings
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California
on
10-31-2015
and
06-28-2014
and
General Meeting
of the
Lake Monticello Computer Users Group
(LMCUG)
on 01-10-2013
and
General Meetings
of the
PC Rams
Computer Society
on 04-11-2012
and 03-14-2012
and
General Meeting of the Boca Raton Computer Society
on 12-21-2011
and
Windows 8 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson
Computer Society
on 01-04-2012
|
Testing USB Ports, Cables, and Devices
USB 3 Adapters For Adding USB Ports To An Existing Computer
|
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California
on
04-25-2015
and
Windows 10/ Hardware
SIG
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
05-06-2015
and
General Meeting
of
Western
New York
Computer
Society
on 10-25-2011
|
"Speeding Up Windows 10"
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/speedupWindows/win10speedup.pdf
Using the Free "Windows 11 Enterprise Evaluation":
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win11/win11enteval.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Los Angeles Computer Society
on
07-12-2016
and
Meeting
of the
California
Southland
Chapter
of the
Association
of
Information
Technology
Professionals
(AITP)
on
10-28-2015
and
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
10-19-2015
and
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California
on
07-25-2015
and
Windows 10/ Hardware
SIG
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
09-02-2015
|
For a general overview of free software and services from the Internet, please see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/free/free-software-services.pdf
|
Meeting
of the Pikes Peak Computer Application Society on 07-02-2016 and General Meeting of the Tucson Computer Society
on 03-21-2011
|
Sample data files for testing office suite software:
samples-TCS.zip contains sample .doc, .docx, .xls, .XLSx, .ppt, and .pptx files
samples-Final.zip from OpenXMLDeveloper.org
sample_doc.file.doc
passworded_sample_doc.file.doc
(The password for opening this file is "password". This file was created with "Microsoft Word 2002 SP3").
sample Powerpoint ppt file
sample Powerpoint PPSX slide show file
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on 03-21-2011 |
Macs Versus "Windows.." Computers:
For an explanation of how Mac "OS X" computers differ from "Windows.." computers, see
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/mac/OSXvsWindows.pdf:
Basic Differences Between Macs and PCs
Models of Macs
Pricing
of Macs
User Interface of Macs
Two Ways To Run "Windows.." Inside Macs
|
General Meeting
of the
Rochester Computer Society
on
04-12-2016
|
Our how-to document
on
"Using the Task Manager in a Windows Computer"
is available
at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/Task_Manager/Task_Manager.pdf
|
Virtual
Technology
Conference 20
of the
Association
of
PC
User Groups
(APCUG)
on
05-07-2016
and
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California
on
11-28-2015
|
Circle.gif is a file for checking the aspect ratio for a computer monitor.
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on 03-21-2011
|
Our how-to documentation on
"Moving Your Monitor-Keyboard-Mouse Farther Away From Your Computer"
is available
at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/Redmere/redmere-etc.pdf
USB 3 extension cables work fine for extending USB 2 devices
such as USB keyboards, USB mice, USB Webcams, USB 2 flash drives, USB 2 external hard drives, and USB 2 external hard drive enclosures.
However, for USB 3 external hard drives and USB 3 external hard drive enclosures, you will have to determine if a specific model works with a USB 3 extersion cable.
To do so, you can use the free "USBTreeView" program to view the stablity and signalling rate of a specific USB 3 external hard drive or a specific USB 3 hard drive enclosure.
To download "USBTreeView", go to the bottom of the Web page at
http://www.uwe-sieber.de/usbtreeview_e.html
Then read the rest of the Web page for instructions on using this useful software utility.
"USBTreeView" is especially useful for detecting problems with USB 3 ports
and USB 3 devices.
|
Windows 10 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
03-02-2015
|
Email in "Windows 11" and "Windows 10":
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win10/win10-email.pdf
|
General Meetings
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
10-19-2015
and on
09-21-2015
and
General Meeting
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
and
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California
on
07-25-2015
and
Windows 10/ Hardware
SIG
of the
Tucson
Computer
Society
on
09-02-2015
|
Malware often "hides" in hidden files and folders so please make sure that your computer is displaying hidden files and file extensions by following our procedure in how how-to document called "Some Simple Techniques For Making 'Windows..' Easier To Use"
at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/win/easier/win-easier1.pdf
|
Meeting
of the
WINdows usERS Computer User Group
of
Irvine, California on
05-23-2015
|
ENERGY MANAGEMENT FOR YOUR
"WINDOWS.." COMPUTER:
A COMPARISON OF SLEEP, HYBRID SLEEP, AND HIBERNATE:
See
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/energy-mgt/energy-mgt-Wiin.pdf
|
Windows 8 /
Hardware SIG
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on 07-02-2014
|
Temporary Workarounds For Accessing Inaccessible Web Sites With A Web Browser:
Sometimes you can use free or not-free
Virtual Private Network (VPN) services
to tunnel around your broadband Internet provider's router throttling, blockages
and slowdowns.
Here in Tucson, Arizona, when our Comcast Cable broadband has slowdowns in their Pima, Arizona router node,
we have a 50 percent chance of partially restoring our download and upload speeds by using the free version of "Hotspot Shield" to tunnel past this occasionally-problematic router node.
Sometimes when a Website is inaccessible with a Web browser, we can temporarily access it using the Web site's IP address instead of its regular URL address, as described in our "how-to" document entitled
Workarounds For Temporary DNS Failures On The World Wide Web.
|
Windows 8.1 /
Hardware SIG
on
09-04-2013
|
Virtual Fax Machine inside Your Computer:
FAX TRANSMISSION AND RECEPTION FROM MAC "OS X"
FAX TRANSMISSION AND RECEPTION FROM "UBUNTU" GNU/LINUX
FAX TRANSMISSION AND RECEPTION FROM "WINDOWS.."
Television inside Your Computer:
TV INSIDE YOUR "WINDOWS.." PC OR "OS X" MAC
TV INSIDE YOUR "UBUNTU" GNU/LINUX COMPUTER
Virtual Machines Inside Your Computer:
INSTALLING AND USING
VIRTUAL MACHINES
|
Windows 8 /
Hardware SIG
on 05-01-2013
and
Computer Technology Conference
on 04-04-2013
|
For some free printable rulers, see
http://www.vendian.org/mncharity/dir3/paper_rulers/
(Do not set your printer for "fit to page" prior to printing these rulers!)
|
Windows 8 / Hardware
SIG Meeting
on 06-06-2012
|
Circle.gif is a file for checking the aspect ratio for a computer monitor.
"LillyPond" music notation and "engraving" software was recommended by Board
member Paul Scott.
"MuseScore" music notation software was recommended by Board member Paul
Scott.
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on 03-21-2011
|
Our detailed explanation about
the simulcasting of both ATSC 1.0 television channels and ATSC 3.0 television channels (at least until 2027)
for the San Francisco, California area is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/TV/ATSC3-transition-SF.pdf
Our detailed advice about
over-the-air reception of ATSC television
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/TV/ATSC3-tuner.pdf
Three reasonably-priced over-the-air "NextGen" TV tuners were demonstrated at "CES 2024":
"Zapperbox" tuner can receive BOTH unencrypted AND encrypted "ATSC 3.0" television channels.
However, it is about $300.
The "Zinwell ZAT-600B" tuner is $150 and, unlike the other two tuners, it does not require an Internet connection.
"ADTH TV" tuner at about $100 is a surprisingly low-priced tuner model
that can receive both unencrypted and encrypted TV channels.
Using any of these three tuners, you can now receive all three types of free television channels:
legacy ATSC 1.0 television channels,
newer ATSC 3.0 "Nextgen" unencrypted television channels
and
even newer ATSC 3.0 "Nextgen" encrypted television channels.
The advice for installing the low-cost "ADTH NextGen TV Box"
is available at:
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/add-ons/TV/ADTH-tuner.pdf
Use the free "CrystalDiskInfo Portable" Windows.. app
to monitor the temperature of your internal and external M.2 SSDs
as described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/SSDs/M.2/0-crystaldiskinfo-portable.pdf
Internal M.2 SSDs either go into motherboard M.2 slots or External M.2 SSD Enclosures
as described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/SSDs/M.2/3-Internal-M.2-SSDs-buying.pdf
The easiest way to make an existing Windows.. computer
dual boot between Windows.. and Linux
is to insert an internal M.2 SSD into an external M.2 SSD enclosure that has a powerful fan.
Then use a Linux installation CD or DVD or USB thumb drive to install Linux into the
external M.2 SSD enclosure.
When you want to boot up into Windows.., make sure that the external M.2 SSD enclosure is not attached to the computer.
When you want to boot up into Linux.., attach the external M.2 enclosure is attached to the computer.
as described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/SSDs/M.2/1-M.2-enclosures.pdf
External USB M.2 SSDs will replace the current USB thumb drivess
as described at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/SSDs/M.2/2-External-M.2-SSDs-buying.pdf
Adding Active Cooling To Keep An M.2 SSD from Overheating
is available at
http://aztcs.apcug.org/meeting_notes/winhardsig/harddrives/SSDs/M.2/M.2-upgrade.pdf
|
General Meeting
of the
Tucson Computer Society
on
02-20-2024
|