tech sectiontech sectionReinstalling the Windows desktop operating system may be necessary should you have corrupt data due to a bad hard drive or virus attack. It is also a step that can be taken to speed up an aging (and slowing) PC. The reinstallation process is simple. You must decide if you want to simply replace the Windows system files (upgrade) or completely erase the hard drive and reinstall the Windows operating system from scratch (custom install).
The BIOS battery, also called the CMOS battery, is responsible for keeping the BIOS information running when the computer is off. The desktop computer BIOS battery is a flat round metal disc that is plugged into the motherboard. The battery is about the size of a quarter and is either silver or black in color. Removing the BIOS battery takes only a few minutes and can be done with just a flat head screwdriver.
Sometimes you'll need to remove the cover on your HP Compaq desktop computer for the purpose of replacing a part, adding hardware or just for dusting. Each brand of computer has a different case and it can be puzzling to remove the cover. Start your computer maintenance by clearing a workspace on a clean tabletop. It is best to work over a floor without carpeting to avoid static electricity discharges.
Establishing a power-on password is the best way to protect your Compaq Deskpro EN from unauthorized access. If that power-on password is compromised, it is important to change it right away. Changing the power-on password on a regular basis can also prevent others from guessing the pass code and logging on to your Deskpro EN without your permission.
Compaq desktop computers consist of a metal chassis to which the system components are fastened and panels that can be detached from the chassis to allow a user or a service technician to work on the internal components. Many Compaq computers have both removable side and front panels. Side panels are held onto the chassis by a series of sliders and are fastened in place with thumbscrews. Front panels are usually attached with plastic tabs that must be unlatched carefully to avoid breakage.
No matter what model Compaq desktop computer you own, learning some basic troubleshooting skills can save you a lot of time and money. After the initial warranty period expires, professional service on a Compaq can be quite costly, and time consuming as well. A number of things can go wrong on a Compaq desktop, so it is best to use a step-by-step approach when troubleshooting problems.
Your BIOS stores the instructions that your hardware uses to work together, such as hard drive size, CPU speed, RAM size and speed. The BIOS includes an option to lock it with a password. You might have forgotten your password, or perhaps you bought a used computer and the BIOS is locked with a password. In any event, this will prevent you from viewing or changing the settings. This will prevent you from performing such actions as fine tuning RAM timing settings or overclocking your system.
Whether you use your Compaq computer for home or business, there are times when you will need to open the case and work inside the unit. Performing simple upgrades like adding memory, installing a second hard drive and upgrading your DVD player require the case to be opened, and knowing how to open the case yourself means you can avoid costly and unnecessary professional services. This keeps more money in your pocket and keeps your Compaq computer running strong.
The Compaq SR5518 is part of Compaq's Presario line of desktop computers. It shipped with Windows Vista Home Premium and Windows Media Center preinstalled. It was originally sold in May 2008 in the United States and Canada.
Compaq lists their brand name on the front of their computers, either as the old "Compaq" logo or the updated "C" logo. Identifying a Compaq desktop is as simple as locating one of the many stickers on the computer. These stickers contain a lot of information including product numbers, T codes, serial numbers and other information pertinent to your computer. If some stickers are missing, you can search the manufacturer's website.
Compaq is a computer manufacturer that produces both laptop and desktop computers. If you're experiencing problems with your Compaq desktop or you want prepare the desktop for sale or donation, you may want to reinstall the Windows operating system. Freshly installing Windows will reformat the hard drive and clear all the data and settings off the drive.
A Compaq Socket 462 is a desktop computer system manufactured by Compaq that uses the socket 462 infrastructure for its processor. Socket 462 is a standard made by AMD that supports Athlon and Duron processors. There are three things that can be upgraded on a compaq socket 462 to improve performance: replace the motherboard, replace processor, and replace the RAM.
If you've had your Compaq computer for a couple of years, chances are good that it could benefit from an upgrade. Whether that is something as simple as adding more memory or as complicated as adding a second hard drive or new power supply, the first step is getting the case open. The case designs vary from model to model, so it is important to examine your Compaq case carefully to determine how best to remove the case so you can work inside the box.
Adding memory can be a worthwhile investment to any Compaq desktop computer. It can be a great way to combat technological obsolescence---additional memory may enable you to install the newest programs and will help your machine multitask better than it could before. Computer memory can be purchased at any major electronics retailer locally or on the Internet, so all you really have to do is consideration a few things before heading to the store.
