Don't Upgrade Operating Systems!Written by Paulina Roe
If you want to upgrade to a higher level of operating system, as in, if you have Windows 98 but want Windows ME - it is highly recommended that you buy a full version of system you want. The version of 98 you have now may have errors on it, for whatever reason (perhaps too many "hard" shutdowns where you didn't close out your windows first, or a corrupted file, etc.), and these will not be fixed up or go away with an upgrade. Instead, some things could get worse. When you only install an upgrade, it's typically called a "dirty install" - that is because previous errors remain in system. Even if you just installed Windows 98 new and then immediately upgraded, you will still find that there are probably errors that will come up. The only way to definitely get rid of errors is to format hard drive and install full operating system. This leaves you susceptible to losing a lot of data, even if you fully back up. Your best bet is to use operating system you have. If you are really wanting to upgrade, first back up all your data, and get your disks for all software, drivers and such (your drivers for modem, printer, plug & play - everything), and be ready to deal with some hassle. When you back up - back up registry files too - you can lose a lot of information and operating needs if you don't take all this into account.
| | Are You a Candidate for Carpal Tunnel or Other Problems?Written by Pauliina Roe
Do you realize how many people have health problems due to working on their computers, with a less than optimal set-up? Ergonomics is a big concern, but America is still behind in appreciating concept. We have better back stores and such, but people usually do not take entire computer set-up into consideration. There are definite orientations of equipment which should be made - and can make a big difference in avoiding carpal tunnel syndrome, neck and back strain, and other problems. Your Seat should be adjustable - in height, in swivel, in armrest. You need to be able to change your position a bit throughout your day. Your legs should rest so bottom of your foot rests on floor or a footrest, with back of knee slightly higher than height of chair seat. The armrest should support forearms comfortably, and not interfere with movement. Your Monitor should be directly in front of you, at a height so top line of monitor screen is at your eye level. You should be viewing it from at least 18-24 inches away. Your Keyboard should be directly in front of you. The height should be so elbow is at side of body and comfortable, with relaxed shoulders, and wrist flat. Your forearm should be parallel to floor with elbows to side. You might want to try using new hilly keyboards with keys placed in optimal positions for better typing - it seems to relieve stress for many people - fingers align better with keys so there is less stretching.
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