Tips From The Tech Doctors

It seems a little odd that my computer has the same functions as a bear…sleep and hibernate, especially when those terms don’t translate very well technically. I mean, obviously my computer hasn’t crawled up in a cave somewhere for winter (well, I suppose it could do that to0) but will I lose data? Which one means I can get my computer up and running quickly? and why would I ever want my computer to sleep?

Sleep (Standby)

In a sleep state (standby), your display and hard disk turn off, and all open programs and files are saved in random access memory (RAM)—your computer’s temporary memory—rather than to the hard disk. Information stored in RAM is cleared when the computer turns off, so it’s a good idea to save your work before placing your system in standby mode. Otherwise, you may lose data if you lose power, you swap batteries, or your system crashes.

Sleep (standby) is particularly useful when you’re using your mobile PC intermittently during the day. For example, when driving between clients’ offices during the day, put your computer to sleep or on standby to maximize the life of your battery and maintain quick access to open programs, files, and documents. When you want to use your computer again, it wakes up quickly, and your desktop is restored exactly as you left it.

Hibernation

In hibernation, your computer saves everything to your hard disk and then shuts down. When you restart the computer, your desktop is restored exactly as you left it. Hibernation uses less power than the sleep state (standby), but it takes a bit longer to resume.

Hybrid Sleep

Hybrid sleep is a power-saving feature designed primarily for desktop computers. Hybrid sleep saves any open documents and programs to memory and to your hard disk drive, and then puts your computer into a low-power state.

Now I see…power saving tips! Now, if only I could function in a state of hybrid sleep.

Read this to find out how to use these different states of rest and other ways to save power and lengthen battery life. http://www.microsoft.com/atwork/maintenance/battery.aspx#2

Love that this article highlights the fact that you should not microwave your PC or stick it in the oven. Pretty sure you all see that as common sense.

Spills do happen though and at that point…you can’t web search what to do when you spill. So take a look at this article and remember the key things to do. If it’s a laptop spill give us a call.

Stay dry!

The Doc.

Spills — If you have kids, you’re worried about spills. If it happens, immediately turn off your computer, disconnect the keyboard, and flip it over. While the keyboard is upside down, blot the top with a paper towel, blow compressed air between the keys and leave it to air dry overnight. For laptops, liquid can easily penetrate the hard drive so turn the computer over immediately and and then leave it to air dry overnight.

Laptop spills need more attention because liquid can easily penetrate the keyboard and damage internal parts. For laptop spills, immediately turn off the computer and remove any external power source and other items plugged into it. Turn the laptop over, remove the battery, and then bring it to your nearest repair center to check for internal damage. Simply blowing compressed air into the keyboard and letting your computer air dry upside down overnight aren’t enough because liquids can sit inside a laptop for days.

For all spills, be aware that anything other than plain water may cause severe damage, and never attempt to dry a keyboard or laptop in a microwave or conventional oven.

Read the rest of the article to get a head start on spring cleaning http://www.microsoft.com/athome/setup/cleancomputer.aspx