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Guide

Note: This section is meant to be only a guide. There are a number of books and magazines that address the following issues that affect computers with Microsoft Windows. Simple fixes, such as "defragmentation" of your hard drive or removing unnecessary programs from your startup tray may solve your own quirks. Be sure to get information for your version of Windows (Windows 98, ME, XP etc). If you are not experienced with computer diagnosis, though, please consult someone who is.

Everything your computer does is affected by its processor speed and its the amount of memory. With a deficiency of either, the music may become "jumpy", boot up time may be very slow, other programs you run may be"sluggish and/or your computer may "lock up" regularly. Here are some clues.

The speed of your computer is measured in megahertz (Mhz). A larger number means a faster computer. If not higher than 166 Mhz, it may be time for a new computer. Check the specifications in your user manual to find this number.

Low memory: One sign that your computer is short of RAM (random access memory), is an exceptionally large amount of "clicking" of your hard drive (there is usually an indicator light on the front of your computer that follows the clicks) while beginning a new task (booting up, opening a program, opening a file, etc). You will have to determine what's normal for your's.

When sufficient RAM (a very fast memory) is installed, the computer uses this to process data. Without enough RAM, your computer must move data to and from the hard drive (very slow when used as memory). For most comtemporary computer programs, 128 Meg (Megabytes) of RAM is a recommended minimum. 256 Meg of RAM is much better. Adding RAM is usually the least expensive way to "speed up" a sluggish computer. You can't have too much!

To check the amount of your RAM on a Windows PC: Click Start>Settings>Control Panel>System>Performance . The number before the words "MB RAM" is your computer's installed memory. It does not change unless you physically plug in additional RAM memory. Although it seems simple, there are different types of RAM that physically plug in but will not work, or will lock up your computer. In other cases, you may have to match an existing RAM card. One simple approach is to carry only the computer (without the monitor, keyboard, or mouse) to a computer store and let them install and check out the new memory.

System Resources: While you are at this screen, check the percentage of "System Resources". This can change every time you open a program or file. If this number drops below 20% your computer may become sluggish or stop completely. If so, close all the programs you are not using at the moment (including the "settings" screen), then recheck the "System Resources". If it remains below 30 - 40%, restart (re-boot) your computer. When you use your computer for hours at a time, the resources may continue to decrease and not recover unless you restart it.

Note: Restarting a computer from its "Start" button is always kinder to the electronics than turning the power on and off.

Upgrade your speakers: This produces a most satisfying musical experience and can be accomplished in several ways:

1. Unplug your computer's speakers and connect your computer's sound card to your stereo system, (use the "Aux", or any other inputs EXCEPT the "Phono" input)
2. If you like the sound from your stereo, take a trip to the computer store and purchase "computer" speakers with a "powered" sub-woofer. Some can be found for as little as $20 (GE brand) at a discount store. Expect to pay somewhat more at a computer store.
3. If you listen on a laptop: A powered sub-woofer with 2 external speakers are just about mandatory for quality music reproduction.