Tips for Printing Beautiful Digital Photos at Home

Recent technology has made printing high-quality digital photos from your home computer a simple, inexpensive process. Using a basic inkjet printer and the following tips, you can easily transform your amateur shots into professional-looking photo albums, wall art or gifts for your loved ones.

Photo Resolution

Higher resolutions photos will produce better prints. However, resolution cannot be increased once the photo is snapped, so set your camera to the highest resolution possible. You can always reduce the size later. If you plan to print a photo that is less than 5x7 inches, 3 megapixels is sufficient. Larger photos require at least 5 megapixels.

Photo Editing

It is rare to capture a perfect image, so you may need to engage the services of photo editing software to enhance the photo quality. Free programs, such as Windows Live Photo Gallery for Windows 7 or Windows Photo Gallery for Windows Vista, allow you to apply a multitude of effects, including removing red eyes, balancing light and color, softening edges, rotating image orientation and cropping out unwanted elements.

Printer Settings

If you will be regularly printing photos at home, it is crucial that you purchase a quality machine capable of producing high dots per inch (dpi). Look for a printer that offers at least 600 dpi to produce vivid, crisp, finely detailed photos. These settings can be adjusted using your desktop computer or on the printer if it is equipped with a menu screen. High dpi settings will increase the amount of ink used and the time it takes to print the photo, so use the lowest quality settings to run a test print, then switch to the highest quality options when you are ready to run your final print.

Photo Quality Paper

Bright white glossy paper produces a vibrant, shiny image that reflects light well. Purchase paper that has a quick-dry surface and is water resistant to avoid bleeding issues. Matte paper is best for black-and-white or sepia colored prints due to its nonreflective coating. It is also less likely to become smudged from fingerprints and dust. Satin paper offers the best of glossy and matte prints, providing a semi-gloss finish that is still rich in color, yet reflects less light and is fingerprint resistant.

Printer Maintenance

Before printing, run the machine's print cartridge cleaning settings to remove any blockages that may have built up in the ink spray nozzles. You should also be able to adjust the machine's alignment and color calibration.  It's a good idea to have CLEANING SHEETS available to help clear the paper path and keep things from collecting around the inkjets.

If you have questions, we'd be happy to make some suggestions - give us a call at 847-348-3489.

Solving the 'Low Virtual Memory' Message

Has this happened to you? Your computer’s performance gets slower and slower. Applications take a little longer to open each time. Web pages time out before they’ve fully loaded.

Then, something dramatic happens. You get a worrying message that your virtual memory is too low.

It’s not as bad as it seems, however. You can fix the problem of low virtual memory.

Simply put, your computer’s virtual memory is the hard drive space your machine uses when it is running short of random access memory, called RAM. Common programs like Microsoft Office PowerPoint and Microsoft Office Word can be real memory hogs, sometimes using all of your computer’s free RAM.

What can you do about a “virtual memory low” message?

If you get a warning that says your virtual memory minimum is too low or something similar, there are two things you can do to correct the situation.

The simplest solution is to increase the virtual memory size on your hard drive, if space allows. To do that, simply go to your control panel and increase the size in the System section. The exact location varies depending on whether you’re using Windows 7, Windows Vista or another version of the operating system.  Choose the CUSTOM SIZE, and set the MAXIMUM the same as the MINIMUM - 3.5x - 4.5x the amount of Physical RAM is a good rule of thumb.  If you have sufficient disk space available, just set it to 4096 on both.

A somewhat more complicated solution is to add more RAM to your computer. If you continue to get messages that say things like “your computer is running low on virtual memory” even after you increase the virtual memory size on your hard drive, adding more RAM is your only option. That requires opening the case, but the new RAM simply clips into place.

Here are some general guidelines for how much RAM average systems need:

• Windows 7 requires 1 GB of RAM to work properly.
• Windows Vista requires 512 MB of RAM or more to work well, but some applications, especially gaming software, need twice that much.
• Windows XP can manage with only 256 MB of RAM, but like all systems, it will work better with more.

For a work computer, ask your company’s IT administrator to add more RAM for you. It’s a simple process. For your own computer, buy additional RAM at a computer store and ask them to install it for you. You can buy more RAM online if you prefer.  I ususally recommend the following as a good starting point: www.Crucial.com - run the "Scan for Memory" tool and it will tell you what you have and give you options for upgrading.

A low virtual memory message isn’t really as terrible as it sounds. It indicates a problem you can easily solve.

How to Protect Your Network from Hacker Bots

Not all hackers are only after your data. The real prize is your wallet.

To carry out cyber-crimes, many hackers will use email spam, phishing attacks, or insidious websites to infect computers and turn them into "Hacker Bots." These Hacker Bots become drones that can be controlled remotely by cybercriminals, unleashing attacks on businesses that generate a steady revenue stream for the criminals.

A Trend Micro study recently found that roughly 25% of all infected computers belonged to businesses. It's often hard to know for sure whether your computer has been turned into a Hacker Bot. The best solution you can take is to contact a security expert to fully assess the machine.

Before you call a security expert, there are a few initial steps you can take:

1. Disconnect the potentially infected computer from the Internet. If the computer is infected, this step will immediately stop data from being stolen, and prevent attacks on other businesses.
2. Search for any sensitive data on the potentially infected machine and move it to a clean computer. Another option is to move the data to an external hard drive for safe keeping.
3. Clean the potentially infected computer using antivirus software. You can also hire a professional to utilize advanced tools to ensure a complete quarantine of your machine.

If you don't yet believe any of your machines are infected, you are in a great spot. Prevention is the best cure and is much easier and cost-effective to implement long-term. You can start by ensuring that your antivirus definitions are always updated and you have downloaded (and installed) the latest security patches for Windows and the programs you run on Windows (especially Adobe Flash Player).

You can also outsource your security maintenance to a company (such as MAX Communications), who can professionally perform monthly work on your machines remotely to ensure they are as padlock safe as possible. This saves you the time and headache of having to do the work yourself, and will also give you peace of mind knowing that your data is professionally secure.

Contact us about our recently updated MaxMinder Plus Monthly Maintenance Program that includes 24x7 Network Monitoring, Management, Reporting, and Remote Remediation.  Prices starting as low as $199/mo.
Call 847-348-3489, or Book an Appointment for your Free Network Audit.

Recover a Deleted File in Windows 7

Windows 7 has a built-in tool called Previous Version that allows users to recover files they mistakenly delete. In order to recover deleted files you have to first make sure that System Restore is enabled so that Windows can automatically create restore points. These restore points are what you can revert a folder to in order to recover the files that existed at that time and date.

Step 1 - Making Sure System Restore Is Enabled
You can verify that System Restore is turned on by right-clicking Computer and selecting Properties. Next, you'll want to click the System Protection tab and then click the drive you wish to turn on System Restore. The C: drive is usually the drive selected. After selecting the desired drive and clicking OK, System Restore will be turned on if it was previously off.

Step 2 - Recovering a Changed Document in Windows 7

1. Open the folder where the file was located.
2. Right-click in the white space within that folder.
3. Select Properties and click OK.
4. The Properties screen will then pop-up. In this screen, select the Previous Versions tab.
5. The Previous Versions tab will then display various versions of changed or deleted files in that folder. These versions are based on automatic restore points created by System Restore.
6. Choose the version time and date you wish to revert back to.
7. Then click Open.
8. You will then see all of the previous versions of files in that folder according to the time and date you selected.
9. To recover one of those files, rick-click the file and select Send to and then choose the folder you wish to save the file to.

That's it! Now you know how to recover lost files. It's a handy, useful tool that Microsoft built into Windows 7. We recommend you take full advantage of tne Previous Versions tool as it will save you headaches down the road.

In addition, one of our favorite tools is available from www.Piriform.com and can be used to Recover Deleted Files on most version of Windows: Recuva.  It is a FREE Download and works well, even if the file has been removed from the Recycle Bin.

If you have any questions, we are always here to help.  Call MAX Communications at 847-348-3489 or contact us through the web at www.HelpMeMax.com.

7 Steps to Cutting Costs in Your Business

As a fellow business owner, I understand the importance of maximizing profits and cutting costs to grow a company. That is why all of the business computer consulting services we offer are designed to help our client's bottom line.

This week's Business Computing Tip is a little different - dedicated to other ways you can save money at the workplace to free up resources for more useful places.

Consider these 7 tips the next time you are balancing your budget:

1. Migrating to laptop computers. Laptop computers consume approximately 90% less energy than standard desktop computers. Whenever possible, have your employees make the switch to laptops.
   
2. Printer ink alternatives. Are you paying retail prices for your printer ink? Refilling your used cartridges (once) at places like Cartridge World, and buying recycled cartridges online can save you almost 50% off the suggested retail price.
   
3. Evaluate your phone systems and usage. It's never too late to take a close look at your current phone plan and comparing your usage. Many times, business owners can reduce the number of lines they have or switch to an Internet-based phone system such as VoIP to reduce the costs of their bill.
   
4. Review your weekly spending. If you find yourself buying office supplies once a week, consider the benefits of buying in bulk once a month. Run a quick cost comparison to see how much you could save by simply re-arranging your buying procedures.
   
5. Hiring interns. Many colleges run a college credit program for internships. Simply contact the careers department and ask for information regarding their business partnership and intern programs. They are always on the lookout for opportunities for their students to work as interns in exchange for college credit.
   
6. Turn off the lights. Turning off the lights in unused areas in your office workspace can greatly reduce your monthly electric bill.
   
7. Leverage unused office space. If you have available space in your office that you do not actively use, consider subletting the space out. Sharing the rent and not paying for unused space are two great points to bring to the attention of your landlord.

We'd love to hear YOUR suggestions on thsi topic - Post your ideas in the COMMENTS below...

Upgrading Your Computer on a Budget

Replacing slow, obsolete parts in your computer can sometimes be a lot cheaper than buying a new one, and extend the life of your current PC for many more years. Many times, just a few small upgrades can make a world of difference in your computer's speed and overall performance.

You can achieve the most performance boost by upgrading your computer RAM, video card, and/or hard drive. But -- before you decide whether an upgrade is the right choice for your computer, you'll want to find out what hardware or software your computer currently has. We recommend that you download and run a free software tool called Belarc Advisor. Belarc Advisor will generate a quick report with all your hardware and software components listed.

Once you have your report generated, you are welcome to give us a call (847-348-3489) for a free consultation and we'll be happy to go over the list with you and explain which upgrade options would provide the biggest "bang for your buck."

Here is a quick overview of the main upgrade options to consider:

1. Upgrading your RAM
   RAM is often the cheapest and most significant upgrade you can give your computer. If your computer is older, it may have less than 1GB of RAM currently installed. This currently allows your computer to operate at only a fraction of it's overall capability. Upgrading to up to 4GB of RAM may increase speeds tremendously.
2. Upgrading your Video Card
   If you, or members of your family, enjoy playing PC games, you will want to consider upgrading your computer's video card. It's quite possible that your current computer only has onboard video graphics, which is placing a great deal of processing burden on your motherboard. Upgrading to an advanced video card (which is separate from the motherboard) will improve the speed of your computer.
3. Upgrading Your Hard Drive
   If your current hard drive has low storage space left, you should upgrade to a larger drive. Having more space will make your hard drive run cooler and work less. If you're low on space, your hard drive will bog your computer speeds down as it struggles to manage and move around your data. But more than that, the Hard Drive is a MECHANICAL device, and it wears down over time (due to fritcion), resulting in slower access to data and programs. Cloning your hard drive is best done BEFORE your run into problems.
4. Upgrading Your Power Supply
   Most power supplies that ship with name brand computers are cheap, generic and ineffective at keeping your computer running cool. Upgrading to a modular power supply will more effectively pull hot air out of the computer case. The cooler your PC, the faster it will run.
5. Upgrading Your Operating System
   If you're running Windows XP or Vista, it's time to consider upgrading to Windows 7. Windows 7 is easier on your system, more secure, more robust, and faster than all of it's predecessors. (see our earlier post on "Can my PC run Windows 7?")
6. Upgrading Your Computer Monitor
   If you have an older computer monitor, you should consider upgrading to a large 20" HD monitor. Your experience with your computer and the internet will change dramatically and you'll find it more enjoyable.

With our fragile economy, sometimes upgrading your computer is the best option for extending the life of your PC and improving overall performance. If you're considering any possible upgrades, we are happy to discuss your options further to help you make an intelligent decision that will reap you benefits for years to come.

Give us a call at 847-348-3489 or email MAX Communications

Five Tips For Going Green With Technology in the Workplace

Now that computers have become just a vital part of the workplace, it's important to consider ways we can conserve energy. After all, every little bit counts. Not only will you save on your utility and maintenance bills, but you will also be contributing to the greater good of society.

The following are 5 tips you can implement right now to go green with technology in your workplace:

1. Remember to use your power management features on all computers. Set a company-wide policy that staff members place their computers into sleep mode when they are sitting idle. This should be done during breaks in the work day, as well as at the end of the day when it is time to go home.  If you use Intel VPro Network Cards, you can actually send a manageed control to "Shut Down" and "Wake Up" your network workstations on a scheduled basis.  (Ask us how - MAX Communications 847-348-3489)
2. Use Uninterruptable Power Supplies (UPS) or PowerSaver Power Strips on all of your electronic components (stop "power vampires"). Power supplies help regulate the flow of electricity to your devices and save from much of the leakage that can occur from plugging devices directly into the wall.
3. Purchase Energy Star-rated Computers, Monitors, and Printers. A little research goes a long way. The next time you go to make a PC purchase, look for the Energy Star rating. This will tell you that the computer uses less power and will lesson the load on the environment.
4. Detox your computers the next time you make a PC purchase. There are many chemicals in computers; however, several can (and should) be avoided at all costs. The first chemical to watch out for is lead. Other chemicals to avoid include mercury, Brominated Flame Retardants (BFR), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), cadmium, hexavalent, chromium, Polybrominated Biphenyl (PBB), and Pentabromodiphenyl Ether (PBDE). Look for a hazardous material use policy on the manufacturer's website that you are looking to make a purchase from. It will take just a couple minutes of your time to research which brand to choose, and your decision to purchase green will help the fight to convince any reluctant manufacturer's to change their ways.
5. Look for green buying guides. There are multitudes of websites online that are designed to help you make smart, green technology purchasing decisions. http://www.thedailygreen.com/ is a great place to start. 

If you know of others, we'd like to share - post them in a COMMENT below...