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How to Defragment your Hard Disk

Defragment your hard disk at least once per year. If you dont, little problems have a habit of spreading and getting bigger and bigger.” That was the advice the Herald Sun recently quoted Paul Adler on when asked what computer users could do to improve their systems.

But what does it mean to defragment your hard disk and how do you go about it?

Your hard disk is like any other storage device. Initially all new programs are stored neatly, in an ordered manner. But over time you add and remove certain programs as your needs change and this causes the location of programs to be scattered throughout your hard disk. For instance, if you install an upgrade to Microsoft Word, some of it will replace your existing version, but the remainder will be stored separately on your next available hard disk space.

The defragmenting process reorganises your hard disk and stores all programs neatly in a logical order. Defragmenting your computer’s hard disk will improve the performance and speed of your machine, and can also increase the life of your hard disk.

To defragment your hard disk using Windows 98, 2000 or XP, follow these simple instructions: 1) Select the Start menu on your desktop

2) Select the option Programs followed by Accessories

3) Select System Tools which should then display several icons including Disk Defragmenter

4) Select the Disk Defragmenter and specify the drive you want to defragment (In most cases it will be C drive)

5) Click OK to begin the process

This process will take a few hours so it is best to start the defragging process at night and return to your machine in the morning. If you require any assistance, please call the Synaxis Help Desk on 09 833 7003.

Keep Monitors Cool

Computer monitors need to stay cool. Unfortunately, they make useful resting places for various items. However, if papers, manuals and other items are piled on top of the monitor, the cooling vents become blocked. This can cause the monitor to fail instantly or constant internal heat can shorten the monitors life over time.

Prevent Keyboards From Drowning

Although it sounds obvious spilt liquids are the most common cause of keyboard problems. If the liquid seeps down into the keyboard circuitry irreparable damage is done and the keyboard will need to be replaced. This is even more serious if you use a laptop. To prevent these problems from occurring keep all drinks well away from your keyboard. If you do spill water on a notebook keyboard, immediately turn the computer off and remove the battery. Remove any excess water with a tissue and lightly dry with a hair dryer. Wait at least one day before turning the computer back on again. Do not turn the keyboard upside down. With the low cost of desktop keyboards, it is best to just get a replacement.

Changing Your Default Mouse Button.

A standard mouse has two buttons, one on the left and one on the right. If you are left-handed, you may want to change the default mouse button. To do this simply:

Stay Still While Running

Computers and hard drives are not as fragile as they were a few years ago, but you are asking for trouble if you move your PC around while it is running. When in operation, your computer’s hard disk is very vulnerable. A tiny magnet literally floats less than a millimeter above the disk where the data is stored. Even a tiny bump can send the magnet skittering into the disks surface. This type of damage cannot be repaired. Not only will you need a new hard disk but you will probably loose the information that was on the disk as well.