Stuff To Do Before You Call Part 1
by Gary Woods

The first thing to do is make sure you have the latest versions of your device drivers and software. Microsoft is always updating Windows with minor patches and bug fixes so if you use Windows Automatic Updates you'll probably be good to go, but it's good to check in at http://v4.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/en/default.asp every now and then.

Second, check your connections. Cables have a bad habit of backing out of their sockets. Make sure that all your cables are seated firmly and also look to see if the cables have become frayed or worn in anyway.

Third, reboot your computer. I might even put this at number one. It's amazing how many problems go away if you just re-start your computer. Go down to Start then Shut Down and choose Restart.

Fourth, roll back your system. Windows XP and Me offer System Restore, which let you roll back your computer to an earlier configuration. The System Restore Wizard won't delete data files, but it will restore the system files and registry to a previous state.

Fifth, roll back drivers. Sometimes updating driver can have a disastrous result. When using Widows XP if you update a driver, you should use the Driver Roll Back utility, which works much like System Restore, but only on a specific device driver. To find the Utility go to Start then Help and Support Center and type Driver Roll Back and follow the prompts.

If you have any suggestions or questions for me please drop me a note at garyandlaury@santabarbaraproperties.com or see my column on the Internet at http://www.santabarbaraproperties.com or call me at (805) 729-0910