Sunday, February 19, 2017

How To Avoid Computer Viruses In 2017

Help From Bigfoot PC

 Yes in 2017 we still have the problem with computer viruses, malware, spyware and adware. It certainly is not getting better, no unfortunately it seems as though things with computer viruses are getting worse this year. It seems that the majority of repairs on the computer service bench are virus cleanings. Many of them are at a point where they have corrupted windows 10 so bad that the only course of action is to save the data and then reinstall windows 10, then move the data back in place.
 So what are we supposed to do to avoid getting a pc virus or some malicious infection in our computers. Well the only way to totally avoid it is to unplug your computer and take it to the recycling center. Now I do not believe that is the way to go, no the best course of action is to have good antivirus protection and have a good back up plan. You could either use the back up program in the control panel or go with something like carbonite where it backs up to the cloud.
 There are a few things to consider if you plan to use the back up program in the control panel. First I would recommend using at least a 2tb external hard drive. This will give plenty of space for the back up and provide space to save other data like pictures or documents. Just remember to disconnect it from the computer when the back up is done or when you are not using it. This will prevent it from being infected by some nasty computer infection or maybe from being encrypted if you happen to get a ransomware computer virus.
 The other back up plan is with carbonite where it backs up to the cloud. The best advise I can give is to be aware of what carbonite back up plan you have. The basic plan only backs up the data and may not be sufficient. I would suggest to get at least the middle plan as it will make the system image and back up all data. This way you can get back to where you were when the last back up was performed. I have seen way too many times where all is lost and there is nothing more heart breaking seeing a family lose all their cherished pictures of their families.
 Okay before I go customers always ask what is the best antivirus protection or program out there. Well the first thing I explain is no antivirus program will be 100% in protecting your computer from becoming infected with a virus or malware or spyware or adware. I prefer brands such as Webroot, Kaspersky, Mcafee and Norton Antivirus. Now there are many other excellent brands to choose from, but these seem to be priced well and do a pretty good job. The key is to keep it up to date, so it does not expire and remember to keep your back up running so it is up to date as well.
  Thank You for stopping by from Bigfoot PC.

 

Saturday, January 7, 2017

Best Laptop Computer


http://amzn.to/2iOW0n6


 One of the most popular questions I always get asked by customers is what is the best laptop computer. Well I really don't think there is really one best laptop pc out there. Yes there are many that claim to be the best, but it simply not true. Now I have seen runs of laptop computers that had problems in the past. One that comes to mind were the dv series of hewlett packard laptops. They always seem to have a failing motherboard. Now I have seen many hewlett packard laptops that do an excellent job.
 Okay so what laptop should I go with ? Well I would choose one that fits your needs and is in your budget. In other words if you want a business class laptop computer, go with a Lenovo Laptop. If you want a multimedia laptop, then a hewlett packard, sony or acer may just do the trick. Now if you are playing games on the laptop pc, then look at the gaming laptop computers. The choices are just endless, so remember to check out all the reviews and then make an educated decision.
 Some other important things to consider is what size lcd display do you prefer, how much hard drive space will you require and how long is the warranty on any given laptop computer. Most laptops have a 1 year manufacturer warranty with a life expectancy of 18 months. I love the expression on customers faces when I tell them that one. So my advise is to pick up an extended warranty and you won't be disappointed. Believe me I have seen many many customers that were very upset when their laptop computer is just out of warranty and the manufacturer will do nothing. The place that sold you the laptop is saying oh well.
 So if you are looking for a new laptop check out the search ads below.


Sunday, December 25, 2016

Replacing The Power Jack On A Laptop


Laptop DC Jack Soldered Type
 Okay so you dropped your laptop and broke the power jack or also know as the dc jack. Either way it can be a daunting task to try and replace it. First of you will most likely be removing a good amount of small screws. Yes it it very easy to break or damage the plastic standoffs that these screws are in, so be very careful. Also be aware that there may be different size screws. Make sure to have a very good computer repair kit.
 The next issue is what kind of dc jack are you dealing with. One of them has a pigtail and a small connector. This type is easier to install and can be done by most anyone. The second type is soldered right to the motherboard and can be tricky to remove. You will need a very good soldering iron station, solder and a desoldering vacuum tool, also known as a solder sucker. I would definitely practice soldering and removing various types of components. I have seen many technicians damage the multi-layer feed throughs and ruin a motherboard.
 I would also make sure to use good esd protection. Use a wrist strap and an esd mat that is properly grounded. Okay so first determine your model of laptop. Next go on either amazon or ebay and look for the dc jack for your model laptop. Generally the cost is not bad, but will find that most resellers jack the price up quite a bit to make a profit. So if you can buy it yourself you will save a few bucks. Usually the killer part of the repair is the labor. This happens when the technician has to totally dismantle the laptop and remove the motherboard.
 So if you can do this repair yourself or have a relative or friend do it you can save a good amount of money. If you do have someone replace the dc jack make sure to check for good and bad reviews. You can save yourself a lot of headaches.
             
                 This a little easier due to being the pigtail type dc jack



             
              Different language, but gives a good description on what you go through.