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General => Technical Help => Topic started by: erin21 on Saturday 05 August 06 21:55 BST (UK)
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Hello there all you computer experts I need your help. My computer is very sick. It is sluggish ,hanging doing all kinds of odd things and I think it may be going to fail on me. I think the time has come to maybe look at a new base unit. I have all the other necessary items so will only need this.
My dilemma is I think I will order on line from Dell but am not sure what specifications I will need to keep me going ""speedily" for the next 4 yrs or so.
Can any one advise me what I need to look for when purchasing. I have Windows XP at present but a small memory. also what does Celeron mean.
Help!!!!
Erin
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Celeron is the name of the CPU (ie main processor) in some ways it is a cut down version of other higher priced chips.
What you should be looking for ? depends very much on what you want the machine to do (and your budget)
If basic word processing/email/browing some web sites then a basic machine would suit your needs - you could possibly get away with upgrading the memory in your current machine.
If you are into games especially graphics intensive FPS (first person shooters) then you will need a much more powerful machine.
You need to get a good processor, good memory (consider 1 Gig as minimum) good or reasonable hard drive - if you are going to play any games at all or use your machine for video or showing dvd's then a seperate graphics card
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This wikipedia entry explains all about the celeron Chips
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Celeron
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Falkryn
Thank you for the info. I do not need any games play. I usually just browse the web, e mail, word process etc. I dont think my computer could stand another memory upgrade. Its old by computer standards and has already had a new hard drive windows xp etc which all cost me the price of a new unit!!
Erin
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Thank you for the info. I do not need any games play. I usually just browse the web, e mail, word process etc.
a decent basic unit would suit your needs
I dont think my computer could stand another memory upgrade.
what are the specs of your current machine ?
Its old by computer standards and has already had a new hard drive windows xp etc which all cost me the price of a new unit!!
I hope the "etc" was a lot, because the rest shouldn't have come to that much although XP is probably the costliest piece of equipment there.
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It cost me £208 for repair. Not sure how to find the specs can you refresh my memory. These Computer courses are good if only I could remember all I am told !!
Erin
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Hi Erin
You can find your current spec by clicking on:
Start->Settings->Control Panel and then click on the System icon.
This will tell you what your processor is and how much memory you have installed under the Computer section.
If you click on the Hardware tab and then the Devices button that will provide information about the various hardware you have installed.
Your present computer may not necessarily be failing as such and there are ways of analysing what could be wrong with it. If you have not defragmented your hard drive for a long while it might be worthwhile doing that:
Start->Accessories->System Tools->Disk Defragmentor
Possibly you have acquired a virus or some other piece of garbage that is using up your resources so you should try downloading a free spyware program like Windows Defender from Microsoft to check whether there is an illegal program running on your system.
In my experience computers do not start running slowly without a reason so try running some tests to see why it has suddenly become slower.
If you hold down the following 3 keys Ctrl + Alt + Delete
this will bring up Windows Task Manager.
It will display how many processes are running and what resources you are currently using. Make a note of all the processes and go on the Internet and type in the name of the process into a Google search and click on a link to see what that process does. Possibly you will find a process that does not need to be running but is using up resources.
downside
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I agree with Downside that PCs don't normally slow up for nothing
Rather than Defender, you could try the trial version of Prevx1....if you have picked up something nasty in your PC, it will find it and stop it from running, plus it will get rid of it.
I'm not sure about Defender....so far it hasn't caught me anything, whereas Prevx1 and Avast have both dug out deep rooted nasties.
Al.
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Hi Erin
The problem for anyone considering whether to by a new PC at the moment is whether it will be compatible with the new Windows Vista operating system. Currently it is not being shipped out with new PC's but if you by a new PC with Windows XP pre-installed it will probably be out of date in a couple of years or you will have to pay for an upgrade.
So have a look at the Microsoft site and see what spec you will require to run Vista.
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsvista/default.aspx
Windows XP will be continued to be supported for a number of years I expect but in the long term you need to make sure your new base unit will be able to cope with Vista.
downside
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Hi Erin
I'm no expert but I do have a few views on buying PCs - and I tend to use them for much the same as you - I'm not into games, music or downloading videos etc
The technology is always on the go - both hardware & software - will be obsolete in 4 years +/- a couple. I got rid of my old pc and replaced with a lap top about 3 years ago because - it didn't have a CD or DVD read or write - it didn't have USB ports - everything uses them now. It used windows 98 - great and stable but sadly no longer supported.
If you wait for the next level of hardware/software you will never buy - there is always something new. For software I prefer to use slightly out of date OS - usually more reliable (only my opinion - my nephew who works for microsoft disagrees ABSOLUTELY with my views).
I don't understand the CPU speeds given - I think I have a celeron - it was quoted as 1.7 whatevers and is more than fast enough for me. Most machines come with 256 basic memory - buy 512 - much better for speed and for being able to have multiple windows open without hassles.
Assume that you will buy again in about 4 years, so look at what you want to spend for that time frame. I bought a Dell Laptop - 3 years ago cost me $AU2000, the same today is $AU1000. I find the lap easy to use, compact, takes up less room on my desk and I can take it away when going ancestor searching. Mine has 30gig disk (quite small by current standards) but I have used only about half. I do have an external 40gig disk (USB attached) that I use for backup. Backup to CDs is tedious.
If you don't like the lap top keyboard/screen you can attach larger ones - I see no need for this but it's a personal choice. I do use a separate USB mouse.
About the only other thing I would add- get at least 4 USB ports - I only have 2 and am eternally swapping things. One gets used for the mouse, so I only have 1 left for all other options - scanner, printer, camera, back up disk.
(1 pound is approx $AU2.5)
Trish
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Hi Trish
Regarding USB ports for laptop. Try buying a USB hub - they are about the size of a hockey puck, a bit like a cable splitter and quite inexpensive. Mine has four USB ports and it plugs into one USB on the laptop. I think you can also get ones that will take more but maybe need a power outlet? Because mine doesn't have separate power ,the HP printer needs its own USB port on the laptop, but I still have one left over. :)
Heather
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It cost me £208 for repair.
Not as bad as I thought as Windows XP would have accounted for half of that .....
As has been said its possible that your current machine may suit your needs for a while yet and just needs a good "spring clean" .... although the freezing and hanging reports do give some cause for concern. If there is little installed memory this could account foir some of the sluggishness and a memory upgrade could cure those problems easily (and relatively cheaply)
Unfortunately there comes a time when you have to decide whether to invest further time and money upgrading the older machine or investing in a newer model
The "Vista specifications" are
* 1 GHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor1.
* 1 GB of system memory.
* A graphics processor that runs Windows Aero2.
* 128 MB of graphics memory.
* 40 GB of hard drive capacity with 15 GB free space.
* DVD-ROM Drive3.
* Audio output capability.
* Internet access capability.
although these are for the premium version they are still relatively modest BUT past experience with MS Operating Systems shows that to get any real use out of them you would need to up those specs by quite a bit.
Although purchasing a "Vista Ready" PC now would provide some level of futureproofing you would still be required to purchase a copy of Vista when it came out (if that was the road you wanted to go). Personally I would wait until machines started shipping with Vista installed.
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Hi Trish
Regarding USB ports for laptop. Try buying a USB hub - they are about the size of a hockey puck, a bit like a cable splitter and quite inexpensive. Mine has four USB ports and it plugs into one USB on the laptop. I think you can also get ones that will take more but maybe need a power outlet? Because mine doesn't have separate power ,the HP printer needs its own USB port on the laptop, but I still have one left over. :)
Heather
Thanks Heather - I think my man has told me about this - I am, as mentioned, technically inept, but I will mention it to him again ;D
Looking at what Falkyrn says about the new operating system (memory 1gb especially) I would buy an XP now - every new operating system increases the memory and disk space needed and if you don't use all the bells and whistles - what a waste. XP seems to be relatively stable - so of course it is time for a new, bug ridden option.
Trish
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Erin -
I'm not a great expert on the inside of 'the box', although I do go in there occasionally to add the odd card ;) and, like you, I don't do games or music downloads, etc. I do do a lot of image manipulation though so I need a good graphics card. So for me it's processor, memory and graphics and a VERY good monitor.
Despite adverse comments recently, I would still go for Dell - they usually have some pretty good offers. Before Dell, I had 3 Gateway machines. They were also good but they moved from Ireland, so I moved to Dell. I've had no problems with either. One of the Gateway machines is 5 years old now and is still more than adequate (well for Mr Gadget and as a reserve). I bought as much memory as I could fit in though - 512 then.
Gadget
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Dell build good reliable machines .... and a lot of them. Unfortunately you rarely hear from the satisfied customers its the minority who have been unfortunate enough to have something go wrong who generally make the most noise. Sometimes without any real foundation.
The real criteria is to go with what you would be happy with. By all means take advice but don't let yourself be dictated to by anyone. (including me ;) )
Take stock of what you have ..... and if you are still happy with some aspects keep those .
If you are going to keep the older machine running you would need a monitor,keyboard and mouse when you get a new machine. If not it helps to cut the cost of a new unit
You recently had XP installed if its a full version and you have the installation disc you could use this to reduce the cost if you intend to dispose of the older machine (on one site doing without XP saves £70)
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Not only do you have to consider the question of Vista and 64bit PCs (as opposed to 32bit PCs), there is also the industry gradual switch from DDR Memory and Socket 939 Motherboards to DDR2 Memory and Socket AM2 Motherboards.
The memory is not interchangeable due to the number of pins on the motherboard, so most DDR systems may well get left behind.
Falkyrn and Downside can probably give you better details than I can about all this.
At present there are many retailers out there who are desperately trying to get rid of the 32bit systems and the Socket 939 systems. There are thousands of laptops out there that are 32bit only which cannot be upgraded (or not cost effective) to 64bit.
Most desktops can be upgraded, but weigh up the cost first.
Fortunately, if you are going to go to Dell, you will find that they have already started selling systems with DDR2 memory (but you may have to look for them on their site).
Because changes are happening so quickly, all I suggest is that if you are going to buy a new PC, get the most up-to-date spec system that you can afford....It will be out of date withn weeks anyway.
Al.
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Thank you for the info. I do not need any games play. I usually just browse the web, e mail, word process etc.
a decent basic unit would suit your needs
I dont think my computer could stand another memory upgrade.
what are the specs of your current machine ?
Its old by computer standards and has already had a new hard drive windows xp etc which all cost me the price of a new unit!!
I hope the "etc" was a lot, because the rest shouldn't have come to that much although XP is probably the costliest piece of equipment there.
The information I got fromt he System area was as follows
Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition Version 2002 service Pack 2
Astock K7541GX Micro ATX
AMD Duron 1100MHz
AMD Duron (tm)
1.10 GHz 192MB of RAM
I asked the guy to upgrade the computer for me when he had to put in the new hard drive but I dont think he did a lot!!
Erin
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Not only do you have to consider the question of Vista and 64bit PCs (as opposed to 32bit PCs), there is also the industry gradual switch from DDR Memory and Socket 939 Motherboards to DDR2 Memory and Socket AM2 Motherboards.
The memory is not interchangeable due to the number of pins on the motherboard, so most DDR systems may well get left behind.
Falkyrn and Downside can probably give you better details than I can about all this.
At present there are many retailers out there who are desperately trying to get rid of the 32bit systems and the Socket 939 systems. There are thousands of laptops out there that are 32bit only which cannot be upgraded (or not cost effective) to 64bit.
Most desktops can be upgraded, but weigh up the cost first.
Fortunately, if you are going to go to Dell, you will find that they have already started selling systems with DDR2 memory (but you may have to look for them on their site).
Because changes are happening so quickly, all I suggest is that if you are going to buy a new PC, get the most up-to-date spec system that you can afford....It will be out of date withn weeks anyway.
Al.
Thanks Al
So what would you suggest I go for. I am confused. What Ram What Hard Drive What Processor would be best Pleeese help some more !!!
Erin
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So what would you suggest I go for. I am confused. What Ram What Hard Drive What Processor would be best Pleeese help some more !!!
If you are still considering the dell route, have a look at the Dimension 5150 its a nice enough machine and would more than do what you want at the moment and have the capabilities to do more should you decide to expand your computer usage. Its also described as "Vista capable".
Many of your decisions will be made for you by the budget you limit yourself to but the above machine is a reasonably fast with dual core processor,ddr2 fast memory reasonably large hard drive,XP media version ... its not the latest cutting edge technology but its a good solid workhorse and would be like a formla one car next to your current machine.
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Hi Erin
In my opinion you should try and live with your current PC for a bit longer until PC's start shipping with the long awaited and much delayed Windows Vista.
Try and see if you can get your current PC to work faster using the things suggested in earlier threads. Don't bother upgrading it any further as you will be replacing it with newer incompatible technology in the near future.
Theoretically PC's will have Windows Vista pre-installed by the autumn and you should study how prices compare for various 'budget' PCs between now and then.
downside
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A million thanks to every one who replied to my posts. I have got rid of loads of temporary internet files and de-fraged and now next week I am getting a memory upgrade. I have had someone look at my system and have been told this appears to be the only thing that is causng me problems so I shall let you know this time next week if there is an improvement. In the meantime I shall keep all your tips every one, very interesting and very helpful. Best wishes
Erin
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Hi Erin
The experts normally recommend that you should have 500mb of RAM when running Windows XP. You should notice your computer go faster if you add more RAM. I would say that 256MB of RAM is the minimum you can get away with.
Reducing the number of Startup programs will also speed up your system. Very few programs actually need to be launched when you bootup your computer. You can start any program when you need it so it doesn't waste your resources until it is needed.
Also try and reduce the number of processes that are running:
Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete and bring up Task Manager
This will tell you how many process are running and what resources are beiing used. If you have over 30 processes running with your current amount of RAM then your system will definitely be slow. Get to know what the non SYSTEM processes are and whether they need to be running.
downside
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Downside
I have 49 processes running not sure what that means or what to do about that. I dont understand the bit about stat up programs you mentioned. I have 192mb of ram I am thinking of adding 256 making 448 an odd nunmber!!! Do you think I should just go for another 512 or will 448 be ok I have windows Xp
Erin
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Go for as much as you can afford, but if it is an old PC, it probably wouldn't be worth exceeding 1G.
Al.
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Al
Its 4 yrs old but last year I had a new hard drive and xp installed
Erin
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Hi Erin
The startup items are listed on:
Start->Run
Then type: msconfig
This will bring up a menu and select the Startup tab.
You can disable any item that is not essential. If you have an antivirus program and or Windows Defender on your system then they may need to be left alone. Most other programs probably do not need to be loaded into memory at startup.
48 processes is excessive for the amount of memory you have. I'm sure you could loose many of them as they probably are not in use and are just using up memory. You can find out what each process is doing by doing a Google search. Some of those processes are necessary - especially if they have SYSTEM, LOCAL SERVICE or NETWORK SERVICE next to the process. I can now understand why your PC is so slow!
You will need to find out from the PC manufacturer about how much RAM your PC can handle. It might be limited to 500MB. Check with your PC manual under the physical memory section. There will probably be a specification about the most amount of RAM that can be added.
downside
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Thanks Downside
Im not sure about the physical memory bit. I know I keep getting messages up saying my virtual memory is low!!!!
My son had this computer made up for me to certain specs 4 yrs ago so I do not have a booklet.
Erin
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Hi Erin
Virtual memory is an area of your hard drive that is used when Windows has used up all your physical memory (RAM). If your computer suddenly goes slow and the hard drive LED on the front of your computer starts flashing a lot it means it is either writing or retrieving information from your hard drive. This would suggest you are running out of disk space. If you click on My Computer and then right click on Drive C and scroll down to Properties it will tell you how much Used Space and how much Free Spce you have. If you have less than 20% free space then certain programs such as defrag may not work properly as they need a certain amount of free space in order to function. You can find out about Virtual Memory by going to:
Start->Settings->click on the System icon
then
click on the Advanced tab
then in the Performance area click on the Settings button
then
click on the Advanced tab
Near the bottom there is a Virtual Memory section that tells you how big your Virtual Memory is.
Unless you are an expert you should probably let Windows decide how much Virtual Memory you should have.
If you discover that you have too little Free Space then you may have to do some housekeeping and remove some of the clutter on your PC. Try running Disk Cleanup:
Start->Programs->Accessories->System tools->Disk Cleanup
There are advanced options on Disk Cleanup that can remove old System Restore points.
You can find out details about your PC without the manuals by doing a Google search on the Internet. You need to know what motherboard you have in order to ascertain how much RAM you can install on it. If you go to:
Start->Help and Support
then
type in Virtual Memory and press search
an item 'Get information about your computer' should appear.
Click on that.
Then click on the link 'View general system information about this computer'.
It should display information about your computer including an area on the top left called 'Specifications'. This is the make and model of your motherboard.
Make a note of those details and then try search on the internet for them and hopefully they will mention how much RAM they can handle.
downside
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Downside
Thanks for all that. I have 70%free space on my hard drive. I had a new mother board fitted last year so I shall see if I still have the box etc and shall search as you said.
Erin
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Near the bottom there is a Virtual Memory section that tells you how big your Virtual Memory is.
Its 221
ERin
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Hi Erin
Windows makes a calculation based on how much RAM you have, which in your case is 192MB. If you add more RAM then Windows will probably increase the size of your Virtual Memory as well.
I think your main problem though is that you have far too many processes running, which is why you are running low on VM. If you have enough free space then you can increase the size of your VM. This will have an effect on system performance though as the system slows down significantly when it writes data from RAM to disk or reads data from disk to store it in RAM.
The only way to realistically improve performance is to remove all those unnecessary processes that are hogging your RAM which I mentioned in previous threads.
downside
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Hi Erin,
Only just had chance to have a quick look at this topic
so I have not read all the comments I'm afraid.
On the off chance. Double left click on "My Computer" icon on
ypur desktop. A box should appear.
Look for hard disk drives. You should see an icon titled patition-1(C:)
put the mouse cursor on the icon without clicking.
a box will appear stating Free space _ GB
Total size _ GB
Tell me what the numbers are that are quoted.
Tomkin
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The best investment you can make is more RAM, as they say, "Best Bang for your Bucks".....it's a fair bet more RAM will cure your problems....XP will struggle with anything less than 256mbs at the very minimum.....
If you want to find information about your PC, go here and D/L the last Freeware version of 'Lavalys' and 'Aida32' both excellent for diagnostics too....
http://www.321download.com/LastFreeware/page2.html#EVEREST
You could also Google for these two very good programmes that will sort out your Start up problems...all easy to use....
'Startup Inspector'.
'Safe XP'.
Both are Free 'must haves'..... ;D..
Michael72.
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Hi Erin,
Only just had chance to have a quick look at this topic
so I have not read all the comments I'm afraid.
On the off chance. Double left click on "My Computer" icon on
ypur desktop. A box should appear.
Look for hard disk drives. You should see an icon titled patition-1(C:)
put the mouse cursor on the icon without clicking.
a box will appear stating Free space _ GB
Total size _ GB
Hello Tomkin
Here is what I found
Free Space 26.6gb
Total size 38.2gb
Erin
Tell me what the numbers are that are quoted.
Tomkin
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You have loads of free space on your Hard drive..your only using approx. 12 GBs of your 38 GB hard drive....so it would be safe to say that isn't your problem....just get more RAM....... ;D ;D and have a clean up of all your background stuff......
Michael72.
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Hi Erin,
Have just had a quick look through the messages. I think
your major problem is the number of upgrades etc that you have
performed on your original base unit. Thats why it pays to buy a base unit from
a reliable maker like dell. They ensure that all the units are fully compatable with
each other and will run together under a wide range of circumstances.Balancing all
the items in a computer is best done by experts. (Things often run O.K. for a while
but weak links will show sooner or later if you keep adding bits and pieces)
It's in the manufacturers interest to do so. They don't want complaints and have to keep
repairing units. The profit margins on computers today is very small and they cannot
afford to do so, so they tend to ensure reliability.
I still use my old Dell which runs on windows 98 for all the basic sort of functions that you mention and it performs great. I also use it with photoshop Elements 2.0 although my new computer is now my main workhorse.
Keep us in touch,
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D
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Tomkin
You live and learn (even at my tender age!!!)
Next time I shall certainly do more research when buying. This computer has cost me twice over !!
Erin
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Hi Erin,
Even at my age I am still learning and making
" cock ups". It's part of lifes rich pattern.
Take care and don't hesitate to "scream"
Tomkin ( AKA Tomkin, now what the hells wrong with it?) ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Hi Erin
I'm curious to know what those 48 processes are that you were running when you answered a previous thread.
What I'd like to know is how many processes are running after a cold boot (from when you switch the power on). So if you switch your power on and wait for Windows to boot up, then when the Desk Top appears press Ctrl + Alt + Delete to bring up Task Manager.
How long does it take to bring up Task Manager. Is it seconds or minutes?
How many processes are running at this stage? (before you have clicked on anything).
Make a list of all the processes that have your name next to the process.
If you want you can post this list of processes to this forum and I'm sure people here or on another forum can advise you whether they need to running or not.
downside
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Downside
Can I do a print screen of this?
Erin
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If you want a good 'Screenprint' programme erin, go here and D/L the Free Version.....it's excellent and so easy to use...
http://www.wisdom-soft.com/products/screenhunter.htm
Michael72.
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Thanks Michael
I was on a course recently and was shown how to do a print of something by using the Print screen button but I have forgotten what to do!!!!
Erin
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You're right Erin - you don't need a program to do it. Instructions below:
http://www.rootschat.com/forum/index.php/topic,146820.0.html
Good luck
downside
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Hi Erin,
Press Print Screen Key,this will copy the desktop.
To copy just the active window or dialogue box press and hold the Alt key at
the same time.
Then open a programme that you want to display the image that you have just
captured such as word pad or your photo editing software.
Click on Edit a menu will appear.
Click on paste, the captured image should appear.
Save it to file and post here as you would a picture bearing in mind the Rootschat
restrictions.
I use a different one and haven't done it this way for a long time but it should work
O.K.
Just keep trying it till you know how it works.
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Thanks Downside,
I can now check what I said,
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Hi Downside,
Just tried it it works AOK. I usually use Gadwin Printcreen 3.1
Cheers mate,
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Thanks every one
Taking the easy option I did Print screen then edit /paste into word . All came out superb but I got the background too how do I get rid of that. I am trying to print screen my processes for Downside !!!
Erin
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Hi Erin,
Press Alt at the same time as you press screen print,
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Gotcha
Now it wont let me put over to roots chat as an attachment !!
Erin
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Hi Erin,
Remember what I said about the restrictions on RootsChat.
Make sure that it is a Jpeg file. If not go to file, use save as...
and select Jpeg format and save. I would give it a different file name.
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Eager to see comments on the list of Start Up items as I have 53 processes running and haven't a clue what they are all for.
I recently contacted Dell about a virtual memory message I kept getting and after a few suggestions, I backed up everything I wanted to keep and then wound it all back to the start again from scratch. It has solved the problem but as the computer was only about eight months old I don't expect this should have happened. One good point about a Dell computer is that it is easy to reformat, everything is pre-loaded, no discs needed except your software.
I'd like to keep an eye on what's needed or not but am wary of cancelling anything in case I do it to something that stops it booting up.
Does anybody else have any opinion on Michael's suggestions above?
'Startup Inspector'.
'Safe XP'.
Mary
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Hi Erin
If you want you can post this list of processes to this forum and I'm sure people here or on another forum can advise you whether they need to running or not.
downside
Downside
Page 1 of 3 !!!
Erin
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Hi Erin,
You've got it in tif. You could have also done it in one.
You should have elongated the task manager until you could see all the processes
and then captured.
Press crtl,alt,delete. Put the cursor on bottom right hand corner of
task manager. ( you should see a shaded triangle there) Keeping the mouse
button depressed drag the pointer diagonally downwards and the box will extend.
adjust till you have just the box with no useless blank spaces.
tomkin ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Steady on Tomkin
I have my L plates on !!
Erin
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Hi Erin
Type them out in Notepad if it is not too much hassle.
Start->Programs->Accessories->Notepad
Save the file when you have finished typing in all those entries.
When it comes to posting it on rootschat:
Select all the lines of text in the document and press Ctrl C (copy)
then click on the rootschat post and press Ctrl V (paste).
That should keep you busy for a while. :)
downside
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Downside
Is the tif file no use. I can post the other two pages.
Erin
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Hi Erin,
Post them,
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Does anybody else have any opinion on Michael's suggestions above?
Quote
'Startup Inspector'.
'Safe XP'.
Mary
Startup Inspector is safe to use, it allows you to look at the information without having to actually make any changes
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Hi MaryA
You have touched on an interesting point. I recently obtained a Pentium III compter with only 128MB of RAM in it. When I booted it up I sat there and waited 10 mintes after the desktop appeared before I could actually do anything. Finally I managed to bring up Task Manager and found that 48 processes were running.
Eventually, I put another hard drive in and reinstalled Windows XP and Task Manager revealed there were less than 12 processes running. I also doubled the amount of RAM. I could actually do something after a few seconds of the desktop appearing!
I have added various applications and hardware since then so that I now have about 26-30 processes just after I boot the PC. Even so, I am able to start doing something within seconds of the desktop appearing. It illustrates just how much garbage was using up precious amounts of RAM the previous owners had to put up with. No wonder they threw it out!
This PC happens to be a Packard Bell and unfortunately a lot of people buy them as they are easily avaliable from Dixons/PC World/Curry's and other high street outlets. Packard Bell tend to overload their PC's with failsafe, user friendly features all of which use up loads of RAM. How they manage to get away with selling a PC with only 128MB of RAM to run all these RAM hungry features is beyond belief.
As you can see from my example most of those features are totally unnecessary. The PC's performance actually increases without them.
downside
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I have got 55 processes detailed on the task manager at the moment
without the slightest problem, but my computer is powerful enough I suppose.
Of course the only addition to a computer that I would recommend would be an increase in RAM and to check that my hard drive never got more than 75% full.
If it's to do with the CPU or motherboard I would probably buy a new computer.
I shall have to dig deeper into the meaning of the memory usage on the task
manager. For example a process which I am guessing deals with the usb connections
climbs continually even if I am not using the computer. At the moment it stands at
10,000kb. I'll check it when I switch off ( if I remember) At the rate of climb by the
time I switch off the figure will be many times what my RAM size is.
I think that the clue is in the word usage.It probably means that it is the amount of ram it has used over a period and not at any one time.
Interesting,
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
P.S. it's now 13,500kb and still climbing.
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I'm no expert so I'm a big believer in keeping things simple......this 'Copy/Paste/Notepad' etc., stuff might seem pretty complicated to someone trying to get to grips with PCs....
With 'Screenhunter' the process of selecting all or part of anything you care to put on your Desktop and posting, can be done in about ten seconds........why get lost in the 'Fog' or make your brain hurt... ;D ;D
Not that it proves how easy it is...I've included a 'Screeny' of part of this window....
Michael72.
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I'm no expert so I'm a big believer in keeping things simple......this 'Copy/Paste/Notepad' etc., stuff might seem pretty complicated to someone trying to get to grips with PCs
Only refreshing Erin21's memory with regard to their computer course.
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Hi tomkin
Yesterday, I booted-up Windows and opened Task Manager and then clicked on the Performance tab.
I watched the graphs for about 10 minutes. Most of the time it was flat-lining - especially the Virtual Memory as nothing was actually running appart from Windows. Occasionally though there would be a 100% spike every 2 minutes when Norton Anitvirus did something or other.
I did a big download of 650mb yesterday and kept Task Manager open. I noticed the amount of free physical RAM kept dropping from 80mb to about 25mb and then would write 50mb to disk and the amount of free physical RAM would go back up to 80mb again and repeat the process until the end of the download.
I doubt if your process will use up all of your free RAM, it will reach a point where it will dump the contents to disk, i.e. the pagefile.sys.
I think we must get out more. ;)
downside
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Hi Downside,
I was actually meaning the opposite. Its is now upto 50,000kb.
I was suggesting that it is a recording of the ram used by that process over a
period.
Tomkin, ;D ;D ;D ;D
P.S. Just been outside. Didn't like it. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Hi Downside,
I think what you are experiencing is something PCs 'DO' whether we interfere with them or not... ;D ;D...and obviously, with dear old Norton, your going to get mysterious 'spikes' whether you doing something or nothing at the time.. :D..it's the nature of the Beast..
I always think of the old saying that 'If you hear funny noises coming from your car engine and you have no idea what they are......turn your radio volume up a bit'.... ;D
And, Yes, I agree, I think we should get out more....
Sorry if we've wandered a bit of your original request erin.... ;)
Michael72.
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I'm no expert so I'm a big believer in keeping things simple......this 'Copy/Paste/Notepad' etc., stuff might seem pretty complicated to someone trying to get to grips with PCs....
With 'Screenhunter' the process of selecting all or part of anything you care to put on your Desktop and posting, can be done in about ten seconds........why get lost in the 'Fog' or make your brain hurt... ;D ;D
Not that it proves how easy it is...I've included a 'Screeny' of part of this window....
Michael72.
Sorry I have to disagree with you on that as in most instances it is just not necessary to load up another program (wasting more resources) just to copy and paste some text.
In the time it takes to find download and learn to use the third party program most users could be taught to proficiently use copy/paste etc.
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You can't actually copy and paste the lines from Task manager.
I was suggesting Erin opens Notepad while Task Manager is open and types the lines in individually as she was having trouble taking screen shots and uploading them to rootschat.
The copy and paste bit only applies to highlighting the stuff she has typed in Notepad and pasting them into her rootschat message screen.
I don't think copy and paste is that technically challenging is it? It only uses clipboard so I don't think it is using any more resources than the memory it has been allocated by Windows - except if it is a super huge chunk of text.
downside
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I don't think copy and paste is that technically challenging is it? It only uses clipboard so I don't think it is using any more resources than the memory it has been allocated by Windows - except if it is a super huge chunk of text.
downside
I think we are at crossed purposes - i wasn't referring to your post. :)
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Just an experiment,
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D
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Thats using the Print screen key facility and saving as a jpeg
and posting on here as usual.
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Thats using the Print screen key facility and saving as a jpeg
and posting on here as usual.
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Thats exactly what i would have suggested to do Tomkin.
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It takes two minutes to D/L and two minutes to learn how to use it and it's resource use is virtually Zip....
Theres nothing wrong with 'Copy and Paste'...but you would have to admit that to copy and Post a full or especially a specific part of a Window can get a trifle complicated in the process.....
But like they say, everyone to their own...
Michael72.
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Looks like we're going around in ever decreasing circles here now..... ;D ;D
Michael72.
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I just wish that Erin would spent some of her large wealth,buy a new
computer and then we could all go down to the pub.
I'm almost sure that her original request was for help in buying a new computer.
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Hi Erin,
Dell have just sent me some offers.
£449 incl V.A.T. shipping and handling.
Pentium 4 3.0G.HZ
Windows XP home.
512mb DDR ram
160GB SATA hard drive
19" Analogue Flat Panel Monitor ( not sure about that description)
16x DVD+/- Rw
1 year collect and return.
Can't be bad
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Just an experiment,
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D
Can you select a particular section of your Task Manager like this?...
Michael72.
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Well recently my motherboard fried, well that was my guess anyway and had tested power supply and hard disk anyway but found it difficult to test the motherboard and cpu myself so I gave it to a little local shop who had a good reputation, based on comments from a couple of my friends.
They confirmed that the motherboard needed replacing and that my ram was "old style", which I knew so they weren't pulling the wool over my eyes so if I replaced one I would need to replace both. Together with labour charges and upgrading I wondered if it would be economical. This shop does "refurb" computers, the whole thing is actually new but may have a mark on the box, the price was very good, beating even the Dell, having 200 gb hard drive and double 512 ram. But they tried to sell it to me on the basis of a Packard Bell.
Packard Bell tend to overload their PC's with failsafe, user friendly features all of which use up loads of RAM.
Yep, I told them that they had just lost the sale since I didn't want all Packard Bell's bells and whistles, I'd seen one in use many years ago and all I wanted was plain XP and customise as I wanted to.
They weren't going to lose a sale, sure enough they removed all trace except for the the start up screen and had it ready for me when I arrived. ;D ;D
Mary, still watching to see what comments are being made on the processes running, although the Start Up has been whittled down just a little.
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I've had two Packard-Bell PCs.....and I have yet to come across these Mythical 'Resource hungry' processes that are being mentioned.....
Has anyone managed to list them yet?...just out of interest..... ;D
Michael72.
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Erin do you use MSN?
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Hi Michael72
How about 'surf fairy' and 'activedoc' that's just 2. There are more but I've got rid of them now. Intel also put lots of things in the system tray on the bottom right hand side of the taskbar, all of which are unnecessary and waste RAM. Things like a 'mouse control centre' and 'Intel Graphics Controller' are probably rarely used but loaded into memory everytime the system is booted.
I see someone displayed a snapshot of their Task Manager and I can see lots of things that don't need to be there e.g. WinZip. If you want to use Winzip then all you need do is double click on a file and it will launch. It doesn't need to be partially preloaded into RAM at boot time. Does anyone use Winzip every day? Incidentally, Windows has it's own zip extractor so there may not be any need to have the WinZip program at all.
As I mentioned before when I reinstalled Windows on another disk drive I managed to nearly halve the number of processes running. It speaks for itself really doesn't it?
downside
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I've had two Packard-Bell PCs.....and I have yet to come across these Mythical 'Resource hungry' processes that are being mentioned.....
Has anyone managed to list them yet?...just out of interest..... ;D
Michael72.
Try using Photoshop when you have a 30-40Mb file to work on....then try saving.
Al.
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wow what a lot of words I bet Erins head is spinning now.
Did anyone answer her question? Or did everyone lose the plot by the 6th page? I know I did.
Erin
Defragment your hard drive, run a good virus and malware scan. try http://www.trendmicro.com/hc_intro/default.asp its an online scanner and its free.
If you live in England Can I suggest a very good company if you want to buy a new computer. the company is called "Scan " they have been in business 18 years and I have used them for all my bits because I build my own. They build systems for various applications, take a look here http://3xs.scan.co.uk/ They are a no nonsense no pull the wool over your eyes company. and best is if you have problems they will sort them, they even do remote access into your machine and sort things out if you arent technically minded.
And if you want a future proof machine buy 1 with dual core processor, Intel or AMD, 1 Gig of memory, and as big a hard drive as you can afford.
Good luck
billybob
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Alternatively, if Erin is going to have the memory upgraded she could first save all her files to discs and then get the whole thing blitzed and reloaded.
I am about to do the same thing with my older PC...I have discovered that several Registry Keys are missing which is why I have lost certain programs, have irregular performance and various settings changing themselves when they feel like it.
AL.
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Hi Billybob
You may have lost the plot, which is understandable due to the length of this thread.
The story so far:
1) Erin is not going to buy a new PC just yet, but is investing in a memory upgrade.
2) She is running around 48 processes with just 192mb of RAM which is causing her PC to run slowly.
Currently we are waiting for her list those processes so we can advise her what processes she can safely get rid of as they are just using up her precious RAM for no particular reason.
Packard Bell make wonderful computers. ???
downside
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I've had two Packard-Bell PCs.....and I have yet to come across these Mythical 'Resource hungry' processes that are being mentioned.....
Has anyone managed to list them yet?...just out of interest..... ;D
Michael72.
Try using Photoshop when you have a 30-40Mb file to work on....then try saving.
Al.
Thats a different problem entirely.......the original statement was regarding the supposed garbage and resouce snaffling processes that came preloaded in a NEW Packard-Bell PC.
I just wondered if these 'Processes' had ever been listed.
Michael72.
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Hi Michael72
Leaving the pre-loaded software issue aside for one moment, it is the hardware that is the real killer with Parkard Bell. It usually has the lowest spec possible with little chance of upgrading it (lack of memory slots etc) and usually they charge a lot of money for their under-powered machines.
Usually when you walk into somewhere like PC World the machines are usually up and running. If a potential customer could walk in an insist on the salesman starting up the machine from a cold boot they could realistically assess how long it takes to boot one of these machines. That would give them some idea of what they are buying into.
Packard Bell is definitely not an option for a power user :)
downside
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I hope you've been following all this very closely Erin21....because I think there may be a quiz coming up soon... ;D ;D ;D
Michael72.
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I think Erin's done a runner and quite rightly so.
All she wanted to know, was what sort of base unit she should
buy.
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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wow what a lot of words I bet Erins head is spinning now.
Did anyone answer her question? Or did everyone lose the plot by the 6th page? I know I did.
Good luck
billybob
Billy bob
Thanks for reminding me !!!!!
Erin
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I think Erin's done a runner and quite rightly so.
All she wanted to know, was what sort of base unit she should
buy.
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tomkin
I am back with my trusty little computer from the shop.
Got to go out now but will be informing you of what I have had done shortly
Erin
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Can't wait lass,
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Tomkin
Here goes
I have increased my memory to 448.mb
I had 192 and have had a further 256 put in. Certainly has made a difference although when I first turned on the dreaded virtual low memory message flashed up. !!!
The guy said he thinks the reason for the slow boot up is because although I have installed a new hard drive, mother board, windows xp my processor is still as it was 1.10ghz and he said he can put me a new processor in to up grade if I want, be about £30 .He said it should then run for about another 3 yrs no problem and no need to get a new computer its fine.So I'm quite pleased and may consider this for the near future. I also asked him to remove the un necessary processes and he said he would so will have a look at that shortly.
He said there was some spy ware on which he took off don't quite no what that was, said it can come in on search bars or something. Any way thanks to one and all. I enjoyed reading all your comments. I have now started a new Thread on the lighter lighter side about memories of school days in the 40s nd 50s. may see you there. !!!
Erin
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Erin do you use MSN?
Chris
No dont use it but I have a hot mail a/c
erin
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I hope you've been following all this very closely Erin21....because I think there may be a quiz coming up soon... ;D ;D ;D
Michael72.
Michael
Count me out!!!!
Erin
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Hi Erin,
When you said that you had to go out, I thought you were
off for a night on the town.
It's as I thought though, you would have been better off buying a new
base unit in the first place. Did he say what processor he would put in for £30?
Don't worry too much about the spyware. I delete about 12 spy cookies
a day and most are harmless. Download something like Ad-aware SE personal.
It's free. Run it every day and just delete the harmful ones.
Happy computing, Glad all is now O.K.
Tomkin ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
P.S. I hope he didn't charge you too much.
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P.S. I hope he didn't charge you too much.
No very reasonable and as my daughter tells me "what else have you got to spend your money on !!"
Sad ey!
Erin
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Hi Billybob
.
Currently we are waiting for her list those processes so we can advise her what processes she can safely get rid of as they are just using up her precious RAM for no particular reason.
downside
Downside
Here is the new list after having the processes cleaned when I took my computer in for its MOT!!!!
Erin
Moderator Comment: image converted from TIF to JPG, so that the image is visible
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Tomkin
Here goes
I have increased my memory to 448.mb
I had 192 and have had a further 256 put in. Certainly has made a difference although when I first turned on the dreaded virtual low memory message flashed up. !!!
The guy said he thinks the reason for the slow boot up is because although I have installed a new hard drive, mother board, windows xp my processor is still as it was 1.10ghz and he said he can put me a new processor in to up grade if I want, be about £30 .He said it should then run for about another 3 yrs no problem and no need to get a new computer its fine.So I'm quite pleased and may consider this for the near future. I also asked him to remove the un necessary processes and he said he would so will have a look at that shortly.
He said there was some spy ware on which he took off don't quite no what that was, said it can come in on search bars or something. Any way thanks to one and all. I enjoyed reading all your comments. I have now started a new Thread on the lighter lighter side about memories of school days in the 40s nd 50s. may see you there. !!!
Erin
I would definitely have recommended the increase in RAM as it was really low to be as 192mb (i suspect it was less than that as you probably have shared memory with an integrated videocard). If all you do is surf the net then the processor is fine for now.
As for spyware - you should download Adaware or Spybot Search & Destroy and learn to use them as they are both invaluable tools.
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Hi Erin
Now that you have more memory things will probably be moving a lot faster so its largely academic as to whether you want to limit the number of processes (or parasitic memory hogs as I call them). You may want to consider getting rid of the following IF YOU DO NOT USE THEM ON A REGUALR BASIS:
qttask.exe - QuickTime
It puts a little icon in your System Tray at the bottom right hand side of your tool bar. You can get rid of it by opening QuickTime and going to:
Edit->Preferences->Quick Time Preferences->Advanced Tab and uncheck Install QuickTime Icon on System Tray.
You can remove things from startup by:
Start->Run and type in msconfig and hit return.
This will bring up a menu and click on the Startup section.
The iPod processes - iTunesHelper.exe.
If you do not use them on a daily basis. If they reside like QuickTime above, in the System Tray they can be removed in a similar way Edit->Advanced and uncheck the System Tray box.
iPodService.exe is run by SYSTEM. However if you do not use it regularly it can be removed from Startup to stop it loading.
realsched. exe - RealPlayer updater. Definitely not required. Get rid of it from your startup schedule.
Skype.exe - is not required to run at startup, according to an expert.
instan~1.exe - apparently it is something to do with OCR TexBridge Pro 9.0 a bit of software for a scanner or digital camera and is not required at startup.
OneTouchMon.exe - is not required at startup.
Mixer.exe - not a critical component. Remove from startup.
THINGS YOU SHOULD LEAVE ALONE:
dragdiag.exe - USB modem. SpeedTouch.
drst.exe - Dr Speedtouch (not required once you have connected to the Internet).
MsMpEng.exe - Windows Defender
MSASCui.exe - Windows Defender
NAVAPSVC.exe - Norton AntiVirus
CCAPP.exe - the advice from Norton is leave it alone.
I'm assuming that all the processes from alg.exe downwards are required as they have SYSTEM next to them. I recognise most of them, but there a few there I don't know about and have not bothered to look at on the assumption that they are kosher.
You can remove programs from the startup filder by:
Start->Run and type in msconfig and hit return.
A menu should appear and clcik on the Startup tab.
Bear in mind that most programs do not need to be in the Startup section except antivirus and windows defender in order to function. They can be started manually when you require them.
Good luck
downside
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Downside
Thanks for all your help. Hope it wasn't too much trouble. I shall speak to my offspring the next time they are home. Some of those are theirs and I shall procede accordingly. Thanks again have a good Bank holiday Its raining here not a good start I should have flown away to the sun !!
Erin
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[quote author=xrchris link=topic=174101.msg859042#msg859042 date=1156581937
If all you do is surf the net then the processor is fine for now.
As for spyware - you should download Adaware or Spybot Search & Destroy and learn to use them as they are both invaluable tools.
Xr chris
Thats interesting so what would I need a bigger processor for? I can see he has put Spybot on for me it came up as a new program.
Erin
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Hi Erin
One thing I overlooked is why you running low on Virtual Memory. I suspect you are or others are running a very big program that was not included on the list of processes you posted.
A faster processor will not solve the problem of low memory. You may be running some process like manipulating large images or running a games intensive program. If you get that warning message again then you will have to identify the process that is causing it and take remedial steps. It depends whether you get that message on a daily basis or whether it is a one off incident.
If you get it on a daily basis then you will have to buy a more powerful PC with the new DDR2 memory and at least a GigaByte of RAM.
If it is a one off event then you could increase the amount of virtual memory but it will have an affect on general performance.
downside
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Downside
I had just got my computer back Norton came on to do a scan and I was opening my emails. My emails have some large photo attachments on do you think this could have any thing to do with it. I dont know any games programs that are on there I shall see my son when he is home but I dont think there is any thing on there. Any way I'm very happy at the moment with its performance and its all thanks to the "Technical Help Site" !!!!
Erin
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Hi Erin
I open large photographs but I have never had a message about running low on Virtual Memory and I only have 256mb of RAM. If you are not running a big program then I can only assume you must have loads of smaller programs all running at once that combine to use up all your available memory.
If you do get that message again then be sure to do a Crtl + Alt + Delete to bring up Task Manager and see if there is any huge process running. If there aren't then make a note of how many processes are running and see if you can close a few of them down to ease the situation.
downside
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Downside
Wll do Thanks
Erin
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if Norton was running a scan while the emails with the large photo attachments were being opened this would easily have resulted in the error message. Norton is a real systems hog.
ccproxy.exe on your process list is part of Norton but primarily is required for parental control on its own it is quite a processor hog and can cause your system to slow down
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You should be able to find most of the processes running on your machine at
http://www.answersthatwork.com/Tasklist_pages/tasklist.htm
Just remember that while those programs automatically loaded at startup are listed in the task manager not all programs listed there are automatic startups.
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Falkryn
Thanks I shall have a look
Erin
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Thank you to everyone who has helped with their advice. I've followed it too and it's been very helpful. I get the feeling it will be a thread to be referred back to in the future also. ;D
My virtual memory problem which occurred on my laptop was on startup and recommended an increase in the size of the pagefile. After doing that a few times with no change was when I backed up my stuff and returned the hard drive to new. I now know that if it happens again I'll come and check what is in my start up that I can get rid of since presumably that must have been what was causing it. Still no harm was done.
What would we do without our techies on here, thanks a bunch all :D :D
Mary