InBox

By DON McALLISTER

Welcome to InBox, where we attempt to answer your internet questions.

Q. Jennifer recently bought a new computer and needs to move her files across from her old machine. "I have a feeling the only way to transfer the files will be through email, but I want to transfer gigabytes of information and email isn't practical. The old 98 computer doesn't have a USB or network port. How can I do this?"

A. It can be done via the printer ports Jennifer, but this is almost as slow as e-mail, and requires a "LPT port Network" cable. A faster way is to remove the hard-drive from the old machine, install it as a "slave" in the new one, then drag the required files across. The drive can then be returned to the correct machine. This requires basic internal component knowledge, but your new machine supplier may be willing to do this for you for a small fee.

NOTE: Beware of letting a "friend" go into the internal components of the new machine. That will void the warranty, or even cause irreparable damage. "Friends" are a common cause of personal computer damage or drama.

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Q. Bill made the mistake of installing a screensaver from "Comet systems". It seems it had hidden components that Spybot calls a "Download manager"and Spybot can't get rid of it.

A. Some spyware, when active, will lock files so removal software such as Spybot or Adaware can't do anything about them, Bill. Reboot Windows into safe mode (press F8 as the computer reboots and select Windows Safe Mode from the menu) then run Spybot. You will have much more success. Don't forget to reboot back into full Windows mode once it's done.

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Q. "My surge protector light is not working," says Karen. "It hasn't worked since I had to push in its red button, yet it still provides power to the computer. Is it still protecting me?"

A. No, Karen! Go immediately to DSE or any reputable computer supplier and replace it. The light indicates protection is active; when the light is out the unit is fried. Reset only bypasses the fuse and light. It is now a plug-board, with no protection.


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