Minutes for PAGE Computer Users Group, Inc.

Business Meeting

June 12, 2004

    The meeting was opened at 10:30 A. M. by President, Sterling L. Teasley, Sr., who wished all of the men a Happy Father�s Day on June 20th.

    Old Business: The problem with the I. R. S. has been resolved. There is no report of the committee exploring the possibility of setting up a demonstration kiosk in the Alexandria Mall.

    New Business: New and returning members were welcomed. Sterling stated that members are welcome to call either Sharon Miller or himself with any computer question, as a benefit of membership. The club started in about 1985.

    The annual club picnic will be held a CLECO Lake (Radamacher Lake) on the second Saturday in August, in lieu of the regular meeting. The club will provide chicken and hamburgers.

    It was moved and seconded to close the business meeting at 10:40 A. M. Questions and answers session followed. They included: Distorted (extra-large) fonts appearing on the screen without being set up at that size, which makes it impossible to read text on the sides or bottom. Various possibilities were discussed, including a virus. It was recommended that one should go to Microsoft Updates and get a security patch. The display settings can also be changed by going to Start>Settings>Display. If these don�t work, Sterling or Sharon may have to make a �house call�.

    Question was asked about spyware warnings - which

should be ignored and which should be addressed. It was suggested to run ADWARE and a virus scan. �Weatherbug� appearance on some of the members computers. It is a program which probably came in piggy back on another program they installed. It has caused problems for several members. It gives continuous weather updates, which is like downloading files 24 hours a day. Outlook Express sometimes deletes attachments that are sent by friends. It was suggested to check Outlook Express Options to see if e-mail options is checked. Also check virus options.

Respectfully submitted,

Joan E. Jeffries

Secretary Pro Tem

Using Your Computer to Find a Job

By Kim Komando

    It's been a struggle, but companies are finally hiring again. However, that doesn't mean a new job is automatic; you still have to approach the job hunt properly. So, here are ways your computer can help.

Internet job sites have tons of listings, but they are all over creation. If you want a job in Tucson, check the Tucson newspapers on the Web. Their links are at Newslink (http://newslink.org), along with those of practically all other major newspapers. Also, if you are interested in a particular company, check its Web site. Most companies list openings on their sites.

    Finally, with the onslaught of digital photography, you may be tempted to put your picture in your resume or attach it to your e-mail. Employers want people who can solve their problems and help them make money. A pretty face generally isn't going to make much difference. They'll see you if you're interviewed.

ATTENTION HP LAPTOP OWNERS!

By Kim Komando

    Hewlett-Packard announced that there are defective memory modules in some of its notebook computers. The modules were manufactured by a number of companies, including Infineon Technologies, Micron Technology, Samsung and Winbond Electronics. This effects HP, Compaq and other notebook manufacturers. The bad memory modules can cause some models to freeze or crash. This may happen only intermittently.

    Hewlett-Packard will replace any defective memory module for free. Its Web site lists affected models. Not all listed models have faulty memory modules. There is a utility that will detect if you have one of the faulty memory modules: http://snipurl.com/7d74

DON'T BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU READ

By Kim Komando

    Kathie from Charlotte is receiving a lot of fraudulent e-mails. The e-mails claim to be from lawyers from other countries and promise millions of dollars in lost inheritance. She wants to forward these to someone in the government.

    This is probably part of the old Nigerian 4-1-9 scam. In the past week, I've received such spam from Dubai, the Ivory Coast and   Lagos, Nigeria. Kathie, your best bet is to forward this spam to the FTC. The e-mail address is: [email protected]. You can get more information on the 4-1-9 scam at: http://www.secretservice.gov/alert419.shtml

BACKUP THE MEMORIES

By Kim Komando

    Bob in Virginia wants to archive his mom's photo albums on DVD. He wants the notes on the back of the pictures to be visible on the DVD version. He already has a scanner but needs the other equipment.

    Luckily for you, Bob, DVD burners are relatively cheap now. You can find a multi-format burner on the Net for under $150. For a brief rundown on DVD formats, check out my tip: http://www.komando.com/tips_show.asp?showID=5793

    After you scan the pictures in, you'll need software to create the photo album on DVD. I wrote a column on that: http://www.komando.com/kolumns_show.asp?showID=4477

    Finally, you'll need to buy your mom a DVD player. Most modern players will play DVD-R and DVD+R disks. Check the specifications of the model you're interested in buying.

THERE'S A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN VIRUSES AND ADWARE

By Kim Komando

    Kim, I need to ask a question and I do not know which Web site to go to, so I will try this one. I have six adware threats on my anti-virus summary and they will not delete. Any suggestions? B. Smith

    First, thanks for writing! I always love to help. Second, let me congratulate you on using anti-virus software. I can't emphasize enough how important it is to use anti-virus

Although your anti-virus software is able to identify the adware, it cannot remove it. Adware is a totally different animal and requires different software.

    Adware is usually bundled with a program you've downloaded--most often shareware or freeware. It is there to serve ads to you. Sometimes it tracks your surfing and bases the ads on your perceived interests. The result is often a bunch of pop-up ads.

    Although it's not always harmful, it's still an invasion of privacy. Fortunately, there are two great programs that will remove most adware programs--Ad-aware and Spybot Search & Destroy. And they are both free! You'll find a link to them on my site at: http://www.komando.com/bestshareware.asp

    Sometimes you'll run into a particularly tricky adware program that cannot be removed with Ad-aware or Spybot. It will appear to be removed, but when you restart your computer, the adware is back. When this happens, enter the adware's name on Google. You should find a Web site or message board with removal instructions.

    If you don't have a firewall, you need to get one. A firewall won't stop you from downloading and installing adware. But it will prevent the adware from reporting your every move. I recommend ZoneAlarm. You can get it through my Best Shareware Picks page, too.

    You also must keep Windows updated. Some malevolent spyware programs install through Windows flaws. Microsoft has patched those flaws.

    Finally, keep your anti-virus program updated. Most anti-virus programs will update automatically. Check with the company if you're unsure about this. An outdated program won't do you any good.

    Malicious spyware can make surfing miserable. And it can be very difficult to remove. Your best bet is to keep it out.

TELEMARKETERS THAT JUST DON'T LISTEN

By Kim Komando

    We moved and that meant getting a new telephone number. I forgot to put those numbers on the Do Not Call Registry but soon remembered when Dave called from the Loan Center no less than 10 times in three days. Gee thanks!

    Over 62 million phone numbers are registered in the national Do Not Call Registry. Unfortunately, some telemarketers ignore the list.

    The Federal Trade Commission has received more than 400,000 complaints against telemarketers over the past year. And that's just the tip of the iceberg. Some believe that for every complaint filed, there are 100 or more unreported violations.

    If you are on the list but still receive calls, there is an online complaint form. But there are some caveats. Your number has to have been listed on the registry for at least three months. And you need to know the date, time and name or number of the company who called. The complaint form is located here: https://www.donotcall.gov/Complain/ComplainCheck.aspx

HIGH SPEED DIALUP INTERNET ONLY $12.95/MO.

http://www.intergate.com/cgi-bin/refer.cgi?5546

By Kim Komando

    NEW from Intergate! Intergate proudly introduces new High Speed Dialup Internet Access for only an additional $3.00 per month, a total of only $12.95 monthly!

    Surf the Web with DSL like speed through your existing Phone line for a fraction of the price. No new hardware is required, and there are no area restrictions

Sign up for Intergate High Speed Dialup Internet Access service today by visiting: http://www.intergate.com/cgi-bin/refer.cgi?5546

Windows and Mac: Firefox

By Kim Komando

    Firefox is an open source Web browser that features tabbed browsing. It allows you to open new Web pages in the same window. This makes it easier to switch between different Web pages. There is a built-in pop-up blocker and search tool.

GET RID OF IBIS AND ABOUT:BLANK

By Kim Komando

    IBIS is downloaded off a pop-up message from the Internet. The message says: "A new version of the Search Toolbar 2.0 from Web Search is now available. Do you want to install the upgrade now?"

    This implies that you already have the toolbar. You don't. It's a new installation. SUCH MESSAGES SHOULD ALWAYS BE REJECTED!

    IBIS installs a file that causes it to be regenerated if you manage to delete it. It is possible to eradicate this bug manually, but it involves a lot of work, including editing the Registry.

    IBIS is a piece of cake compared to about:blank. This is a variant of Cool Web Search, a Russian program. The programmers writing it are very, very good. David Stang, chief technical officer of Pest Patrol, an anti-spyware company, said variants often come out weekly. The anti-spyware industry cannot stay up, he added.

    About:blank and IBIS supposedly can be removed manually. But the processes are involved. And I don't know if they work, since I have not tested them. Pest Patrol says its software will remove IBIS, and may be effective against about:blank. It is continuing to work on the latter. It has more information on about:blank at: http://www.pestpatrol.com/pestinfo/c/cws_aboutblank.asp

    If you think you have either problem, go to Pest Patrol and let it scan your system. You can download its cleanup software for $40. Be sure you get the latest update. Pest Patrol also has information on manual removal on the page above.

    Risks on the Web have grown to an extraordinary level. You must protect yourself. If you get a pop-up that offers you a free search program or some other doodad, DO NOT CLICK YES. Refuse the offer.

    Also, upgrading Windows is essential. The Cool Web Search variants usually take advantage of a flaw that allows code to be downloaded without the computer owner's knowledge. That flaw has been patched by Microsoft. If you need to update, open Internet Explorer and click Tools>>Windows Update. Run the scan and install EVERYTHING under Critical Updates and Service Packs.

Get the Picture with Video Instant Messaging

By Kim Komando

    AOL Instant Messenger (AIM), ICQ, MSN Messenger and Yahoo! Messenger are among the most popular instant messaging programs. They also provide free video services. The video isn't the best, but it's a fun way to communicate with someone thousands of miles away.

    It doesn't cost too much to get up and running. First, you'll need a Web cam. These cameras generally cost between $50 and $200. Look for a camera in the $100 range. Those priced lower may provide poor video.

    You'll notice little difference in video quality among the four instant messaging programs. All are slightly jerky, but if you

don't move around too much, it's not distracting.

    All allow you to see yourself, as well as the person with whom you are talking. This helps center the picture. You want to transmit your face, not your neck. They also allow you to communicate using only one Web camera. The person with the Web cam transmits video and audio. The person without the Web cam responds the old fashioned way--by typing.

    The biggest differences among the programs occur in the extras.

    AOL Instant Messenger (http://www.aim.com) and ICQ (http://www.icq.com) are short on features but easy to use. Once a chat session is initiated, press a button (the video button on AIM and the Web cam icon on ICQ) to get streaming video and audio. The picture size is relatively small (less than 3 inches diagonal). Neither program allows adjustment of the picture size or quality. AIM operates on both Windows and Mac. ICQ runs only on Windows XP.

    MSN Messenger (http://messenger.msn.com) and Yahoo! Messenger (http://messenger.yahoo.com/) require an extra step for streaming video and audio. You have to press one button for video and another for audio. If you find yourself with video and no audio, you may have skipped a step.

    Both programs allow you to resize the video screens from small (about 2 inches) to large (over 4 inches). You can also tweak your Web camera's settings to change the brightness and contrast. There are advanced settings that correct color and allow you to flip the image vertically or horizontally. Both operate on Mac and Windows.

    Although all services are relatively easy to use, you might have to do some troubleshooting. Some users might experience difficulty if they are behind a firewall. Check with the program's FAQ and help sections if you run into connection problems.

    Having the proper lighting is key to a good picture. Bright, overhead and evenly lit areas are the best. Avoid rear light sources from behind, such as windows. They will cast you in shadow, making you difficult to see.

    If you are using the Web cam's microphone, set it away from your computer's speakers. Otherwise, you will have audio feedback. If your speakers are placed next to your monitor, try a headset/microphone that plugs into the back of your computer. They're about $20.

    Or, purchase a microphone that clips onto your shirt--it costs less than $10. This way, you can still use your computer's speakers. This is beneficial when you have a group of people in the room.

    Video messaging can be fun, but take precautions. Video can be recorded. Anything you say or do could be distributed by someone else.

    A couple of years ago I tried video messaging with a friend who lived a few states away. The video was so jerky that after a few minutes I started to feel nauseous. It's gotten much better. It's not as smooth as something you would see on the Jetsons, but it's close.

"EVER WORRY WHAT YOUR CHILD'S DOING ON-LINE?"

By Kim Komando

    Amazing new Parental Control & Internet Monitoring software lets you SEE everything your child does on-line; what they do, where they go, even who they talk to!

    Get your FREE demo: http://www.pctattletale.com/kim

    PC Tattletale software invisibly records EVERY email, chat session, instant message, web site, keystroke, & password!

 

    It's perfect for ANY parent whose children go on-line!

    Download a FREE Demo of the all-new PC Tattletale Now: http://www.pctattletale.com/kim

MORE WIRELESS BROADBAND SYSTEMS COMING

By Kim Komando

    Cingular and Sprint announced Tuesday that they would offer wireless broadband service nationwide. They plan to compete with Verizon Wireless, which has started rolling out its system.

    These broadband plans are far better than the carriers' current 3G (third generation) phone systems. Downloads on 3G run just a little faster than 56K. Wireless broadband competes with cable and DSL.

    The wireless plans are more expensive, though. Verizon Wireless charges $80 per month. Sprint and Cingular did not announce prices, but are likely to be in that area. So they are more useful for the business person on the go, rather than homeowners.

    A fourth carrier, Nextel, is currently testing a broadband system in North Carolina. It has not announced rollout plans.

    All of this is good news for us Internet users. Even if we don't use wireless, the additional offerings are likely to keep a lid on prices.

Do you have problems with your optical �mouse�

    Recently I've experienced problems with erratic control of the pointer when using my optical mouse. I assumed that there was little that could be done other than replacement to correct the problem. Yesterday, I read a suggestion which proved helpful.

    Turn the mouse over and look at the 4 small pads or feet that are designed to maintain a set distance between the optical eye and the mouse pad. Over time they will get fouled with dust and grime. When that happens, movement of the computer pointer becomes erratic. Gently remove any dust or big pieces of junk which may have accumulated around the outer edge of the pads. Place a clean sheet of paper on a flat surface, turn the mouse upright, and rub the feet over the paper several times, moving to a clean spot on the paper each time. Regular printer paper is just abrasive enough to clean the pads. You may be surprised how much gunk has built up on the pads.

    After this simple cleaning my mouse is working like new. If you're having problems with an optical mouse, this is worth a try.

TELL XP YOU DON'T NEED A USER NAME

By Kim Komando

    Depending on how you set it up, Windows XP may ask you to click your user name when booting up. Jack, in Chelsea, MI, has this problem, and he wants to solve it.

    Windows XP forces you to go through this process if you have more than one account on your computer. You can delete unused accounts. Click Start>>Control Panel. Double-click User Accounts. Click the surplus account, and select Delete the Account.

    If you are the only user, Windows will not normally ask you to click the account. However, a Windows XP update installs an invisible account that can cause this. The update is .NET Framework, and is intended primarily for software developers. You can safely delete it.

    To do so, go to Control Panel. Double-click Add or Remove Programs. In the program list, click Microsoft .NET Framework 1.1. Click Remove.

WHAT TO DO WITH THOSE UPDATE MESSAGES

By Kim Komando

    Microsoft regularly updates Windows to fix security flaws. These updates are critical. Without them, you could easily be attacked.

    Windows XP has about 45 million lines of code (that's the gibberish that programmers write). In such a huge endeavor, its likely that there will be security problems. That is certainly the case with Windows XP. Most of the flaws are found by private security researchers, who report them to Microsoft.

    Your computer is probably set up to receive the updates automatically. The message you are getting means that the updates have been downloaded to your computer. It is essential that you install them. I'm amazed that your Internet service provider didn't tell you this.

    You can search for updates manually. Open Internet Explorer. Click Tools>>Windows Update. Let Microsoft scan your system.

    In the left panel, you'll find three categories of updates: Critical Updates and Service Packs, Windows XP, and Driver Updates. The first should always be installed; the others are optional.

    I recommend that the updates be made as automatic as possible. In XP, click Start>>Control Panel. Double-click System. Select the Automatic Updates tab. Click the box next to "Keep my computer up to date." Click "Automatically download the updates..." Set a time when you're normally online. Click Apply>>OK.

    In Windows 2000 and ME, click Start>>Settings>>Control Panel. Double-click Automatic Updates. In 2000, follow the instructions for XP. In ME, select "Automatically download updates..."

    Windows 98 does not have automatic updates. Use the manual description above. In fact, you can use that for all Windows versions.

EVERYTHING ABOUT GI EDUCATION BENEFITS

By Kim Komando

    The military offers a number of programs to help you get through school. Like a lot of government things, this area can be confusing.

    But the Web has the answers. GiBill.com explores the ins and outs of grant and loan programs. If you're in the military, just out, or thinking of joining, give this some consideration.

A college education can give you a leg up. It helped me; it can help you, too. Get all the information at: http://www.gibill.com/

Make a family screen saver

By Kim Komando

    Storing digital images on your computer? Put them to good use. Every time the computer idles for a certain amount of time, your monitor could become a virtual photo album.

    Screen savers are programs that start running when the computer is not being used. In the old days, an image that remained static on a monitor for a good deal of time would burn itself into the screen. Monitors often had ghost writing burned into them.

    Screen savers were invented to prevent burn-in. When the computer sat idle, the screen saver would come on, keeping the image moving. Monitors no longer need this protection. But screen savers are still around.

    Windows includes many screen savers. And Windows XP and Windows ME have an option that lets you create a one that contains pictures of your family and friends. It�s easy to set up.

    Right-click an empty area of the desktop. Select Properties and then, the Screen Saver tab. Under Screen Saver, click the down arrow and select My Pictures Slideshow (XP) or My Pictures Screen Saver (ME). Click Settings and Browse to find the folder that contains your photos. The screen saver will automatically pick up all the pictures in the folder. You can also set how fast the pictures should change and the size of the pictures.

    You can do the same with Mac�s OS X. Put your pictures in a folder on the desktop. Then, in the Dock, click System Preferences, Screen Effects and Pictures Folder. Click Configure. Drag the folder on the desktop to the Slide Folder well. Set your display options, and click OK.

    You can share screen saver slide shows with family members. One way is to e-mail photos in bulk along with the above instructions. But there are numerous programs that streamline this task. One Windows program that gets high marks is Easy ScreenSaver Studio (http://www.dd2002.com; $29.95).

    The Easy ScreenSaver Studio wizard walks you through the creation process. Once the screen saver is created, click File and Mail. That opens your e-mail program, and automatically attaches the screen saver to the e-mail. All you have to do is address it and send it on its way. At the other end, recipients right-click the screen saver�s icon and then select Install.

    A similar program for Mac users is PhotoShow (http://www.simplestar.com; $29.99).

    The Ceiva Digital Photo Receiver (http://www.ceiva.com) puts an interesting twist to sharing photos in a slide show. You upload photos to Ceiva. This hi-tech picture frame will automatically receive and display a slide show without a computer. Each night, the Ceiva Receiver makes a short local call to receive any pictures that have been sent to it. The Ceiva costs $150. A one-year subscription for downloading is $90.

    If you don�t have a bunch of family photos and want a screen saver, one of the most popular Internet downloads is Living Waterfalls (http://www.risoftsystems.com; $14.95). This screen saver contains a mixture of tropical rain forest photos and soothing music. But by far, the biggest site in this category is WebShots (http://www.webshots.com). This site claims over 100 million people have downloaded its software that lets you download photos for use as desktop wallpaper or in a slide show screensaver format.

HERE'S SOMETHING ELSE TO WORRY ABOUT--A CELL PHONE WORM

By Kim Komando

    Virus writers from the Czech Republic and Slovakia have released a worm for cell phones. Cabir spreads through the Bluetooth networking protocol. Few phones have Bluetooth.

    The worm is harmless. So there is no immediate risk. But it is a harbinger of things to come. Cell phone viruses will mean more problems for those who are connected, and more business for anti-virus firms.

 

 

 

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