Why Xiaomi Mi 4i lacks memory card slot

:::: Also known as MicroSD card slot ::::

Hugo Barra, vice president for international at Xiaomi, explains Why Xiaomi Mi 4i lacks memory card slot. For those of you who are ordering it online in a few minutes this may come as a surprise (I too was) as to why this phone did not come up with  a micro-sd slot.  Now it is clear after hearing what Xiaomi has to say about this.

• MicroSD card requires a large motherboard and a significant redesign of the device that would make it look bigger and less slimmer.

• A microSD card slot in the Mi 4i, meant a smaller (lesser than 3000mAh battery) in it. 

• SD cards can significantly slow down system performance and lead to apps crashing due to the poor quality of SD cards in the market, many of which are actually fake.

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These are valid reasons according to many people. Also, these are the same reasons why most of the high-end phones nowadays don't come with a microSD card slot.

Register for the MI 4i here.

However I personally find this as a big point to consider as I am yet to come to terms with a non microSD Phone. However its a personal choice and also there is always solace in the fact that this phone has OTG support for the OTG pendrives. So I may go for this one, for the sheer specs at this price.

Note: The links in this page are affiliate links.

How to disable access to the Control Panel in Windows 8

Dear Geek - Is there a way to disable access to the Control Panel in Windows 8? I ask this because I do not want my guest's kids tampering or fiddling with my computer's settings and I cannot give them guest user access since that would mean I would have to re-install some big software program all over again. Thanks in advance.

Nithish Rane, Aurangabad.

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Dear Nithish - Yes. The answer to your question is positive and there is a way to do it. Just follow these steps and you are good to go.

• Press the Windows+R key combination to open the “Run” box or click on the Run command in the start menu (if you have it enabled).

• Type gpedit.msc in the Run box, and press the Enter key. This will open a Group Policy editor window.

• Go to User Configuration>Administrative Templates>Control Panel.

• Double-click on - Prohibit access to Control Panel and PC settings. A dialog box will open up on your screen.

• Select Enabled, and click the OK button.

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That is it. Whenever someone tries to access the Control panel they will get the message that access has been disabled.

Whenever someone tries to access the Control panel they will get the message that access has been disabled.

MI4i - Budget friendly warhorse of a smartphone!

MI4i - Budget friendly warhorse of a smartphone. The phone that delivers value for money. If you are looking for an affordable phone with high-end specs then you need to stop looking any further.

First thing it is a very affordable for the specs that it is powered with. In fact more than a bang for the moolah. It comes with awesome features that usually are reserved for the 20+K segment.


Coincidentally I was about to order a high-end phone but thought to wait for a day to check in just in case. And I was pleasantly surprised to see this coming out!

I will be adding more details later in the days to come. Lets see some cool pics first:

Resolution = Full HD, 1920 x 1080 Pixels 'JDI Display', All New Sunlight Display, 441 PPI Size = 5 Inches

RAM Memory  =   2 GB RAM,
Device Memory =  16 GB ROM  (User available Memory - 12.77 GB)

User Interface = MIUI 6
Graphics   =  Adreno 405
OS  =   Android v5.0.2 (Lollipop)
Processor   =  1.7 GHz + 2nd-gen Snapdragon 615 64-bit Octa core


Register at Flipkart for your phone and get set to go!

Note: the links in this post are affiliate links.

Mi 4i - Drooling stuff for the Mobile lover.

Mi 4i - Drooling stuff for the Mobile lover. The phone that I have been waiting for a long time. I must say that I am a bit lucky in this regard. When MI4 launched I missed the bus. When Redmi 1s launched I missed the bus.

When MI4i launched today I made sure that I clicked the register button. Why?

First thing it is a very affordable for the specs that it is powered with. In fact more than a bang for the buck. The thing that I liked the most was the fact that it comes with dual 4G Sims. And it has notched the quality bar to stay ahead of its rivals for each aspect of the device.

I am happy that I waited for this as it was just this afternoon that I had come almost to the verge of clicking another phone at same price but lower specs.

Lets see some cool pics first:

RAM Memory  =   2 GB RAM,
Device Memory =  16 GB ROM  (User available Memory - 12.77 GB)

User Interface = MIUI 6
Graphics = Adreno 405
OS  = Android v5.0.2 (Lollipop)
Processor = 1.7 GHz+ 2nd-gen Snapdragon 615 64-bit Octa core
Resolution = Full HD, 1920 x 1080 Pixels 'JDI Display', All New Sunlight Display, 441 PPI Size =  5 Inches


Register at Flipkart for your phone and get set to go!

Note: the links in this post are affiliate links.

Why you must calibrate the colors on your computer monitor

Why you must calibrate the colors on your computer monitor.

Do your photos look different on your computer monitor than they appeared on your camera’s LCD display or when they are seen in another computer/laptop? 

If so, its time to calibrate the colors on your monitor.And not only now but once in 4-6 months.

How to calibrate your monitor’s display?

Follow these steps if your PC is running Windows 7:

1 – Go to the Start button.

2 – Click Control Panel.

3 – Go to Hardware and sound.

4 – Click Display.

5 – Click Calibrate color and follow the instructions on the screens that follow.

 

Follow these steps if your PC is running Windows 8/8.1:

1 – Click on search panel of the Start Screen, then type 'calibrate'.

2 – Select 'Calibrate display color' from the list of search results.

3 – Follow the instructions on screen, that follow.

Calibrating your monitor every few months is a good idea. Electronic products tend to get affected by heat and therefore these settings need to be re-calibrated often.

Fing - Find out who is connected to your Wi-Fi network

Fing - Find out who is connected to your Wi-Fi network. That too n the blink of an eye using 'Fing'. It is a wonderful android and iPhone App for analyzing your Wi-Fi network. 

A simple and intuitive GUI (Graphic User Interface) that helps you judge your security levels, detect unknown intruders and also resolve network issues.  

And most importantly it is free!

For me personally I am drooling over this nifty feature which states - Wake On LAN: Switch on your devices from your mobile or tablet! 

Upon installing and first run, almost immediately you’ll be presented with a list of all those devices that are connected to your network at that time.

The Fing app will display the name of the network as well as the IP and MAC address of every device that’s currently connected to it. See the screen shot.


Fing is available on several other platforms, including Windows, OS X and Linux and Available for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch with retina and standard displays.Check them out!

There’s a whole lot of useful info that can be seen in Fing as well.

You’ll find the free Fing Network Tools app in the Google Play Store.

The phone with 4GB RAM - Asus Zenfone 2 (blasting Honor 6 plus!)

 

For the quality and budget conscious, a 4GB RAM phone that seems unbelievable. ASUS always brings premium specs to a handset at a price that is way below market value.

Watch out guys. Be ready and keep watching this space. It is up for grabs very soon and I suggest you not to miss it.

Launch date is - 23rd April 2015 at Flipkart. And don't blame me if you forget the date or the time! So make a note in multiple place reminders. 

Looks like ASUS Zenfone 2 will be one helluva monster with insane specs.

Specs: (for ZE551ML)

Display = 5.50-inch
Processor = 2.3GHz Intel Atom Z3580 quad-core
Front Camera = 5-megapixel
Resolution = 1080x1920 pixels
RAM = 4GB
OS Android version = 5.0
Storage = 32GB
Rear Camera = 13-megapixel
Battery capacity = 3000mAh
Expandable storage microSD =  up to (GB) 64

This dual-sim smartphone supports 2G, 3G and 4G. The Zenfone range has seen a major leap in the battery capacity, from the 2,110mAh juice-pack of Zenfone 5 to the 3,000mAh powerhouse in Zenfone 2. 

Expected price = ~ INR19999/-
Release date - 23rd April 2015




There is also a 2 GB RAM variant that will sell at a lesser price.

And in case you have not installed the Flipkart App do so here.

DELL S2240L 21.5" Full HD LED monitor

Look at the DELL S2240L 21.5"  Full HD LED monitor (and get surprised)

Looking for a Full HD Computer display that doubles as a TV with an HD set-top box? I see one option standing - the DELL S2240L 21.5"  LED monitor that can be used to connect to the set-top box by HDMI cable (not supplied). The quality is crystal clear and the state of the art screen dynamics makes it one clear leader.

This is not a PC only monitor.

Personally I keep putting off buying a monitor till I am personally satisfied with the specs. This one just gets everything right. The features in that price range is unbeatable. If you are looking for a FULL HD monitor, go for it. It comes with a DELL 3 years warranty and that speaks volumes about the quality.

Pros:

1. Full HD (high-definition) resolution (1920x1080)
2. Size 21.5-inch screen (16:9 widescreen format)
3. Tilt 4 degrees forward or 21 degrees backward. 
4. VGA connectivity. 
5. The HDMI portfor Graphics card or Set-top TV
6. ENERGY STAR power saving.
7. Reduce power consumption by enabling PowerNap.

Cons: 

1. No DVI input.
2. No USB input
3. No Remote (in case of set-top box connect) 

Get it here if you are in India.

If you are in the US get it here.

And read the reviews here in case you are not convinced yet...

3G Internet sharing WI-FI devices - TP-Link MR3020 and Asus RT N 10U

Today we see a lot of people using the 3G facility on their mobile to connect other devices like a laptop or another mobile. There is also the 4G that is slowly coming up in many cities in India. So the chances that if you have a Hotspot option in your mobile you will use it to connect other devices to that 3G.

What if you do not have that option? Or if you do not want to use that option for a long duration as it consumes your mobile battery charge rapidly?


That is where my recommendations come in.

 1. TP-Link TL-MR3020 Mini Pocket 3G/4G Wireless Router (Grey). This nifty device  will just the job. Whether you want to share your existing Broadband connection or share a 3G Dongle give it a try.
 

With advanced killer features like

• Sleek, portable design with and Mini USB Port
• IP-based bandwidth control allows administrators to determine how much bandwidth is allotted to each connected device.
• Decent range of signal. Users reviews here are positive and can be read here.
• Work with many 3G Modem USB dongles.  You can find the list of compatible usb modems on TP Link website http://www.tp-link.in/ 

So if you are still not convinced look at the 1000+ positive reviews and get convinced.


2. Asus RT N 10U 3G/4G Router

• 3G/4G sharing is a breeze. Use it with the regular cable broadband to ensure seamless connectivity. 
• Regular LAN for Broadband and local networking
• USB port doubles up as: FTP server, printer server, and 3G/4G modem
• Fantastic range of WI-FI signal 

The two cons I have against it is that 

• USSD command is not supported which means you can not check your prepaid balance using the short-codes (like for e.g, *111*6*2# as in Vodafone). 
• Its form factor is not something like the one above.

Other wise its a superb bang-for-the-buck device.
In case you have any doubts please read the info and reviews here and then go for it.

See you all folks with another dose of geeky advice!

Belkin Charger for Tablets and Mobile with Micro USB Sync/Charger Cable

Nowadays almost every electronic communication device comes with own charger as a standard accessory in the package. And when there is a problem with the charger or if the charger gets misplaced somewhere, one has to run helter-skelter for a replacement.

And guess what? Almost every time we make the mistake of getting any charger that is sold in the electronics and mobile shops, by just checking if the charging indicator shows the charging animation.

That is where the fun starts. We realize after its too late that the charging time takes a hit. What usually charged in 2-3 hours with the original adapter, now takes 7-10 hours. So is there any reason for this?

As with all electronic components there is a specification and when the specs are not met there will be a degradation in performance.

In such cases its almost always too late that we realize we must have got a better product for the purpose of charging our devices. After all we take great care to select the best device in the first place so it does seem apt to get a suitable charging accessory instead of compromising on the same.

So if you are facing a dilemma look no further. The Belkin Universal Home Charger (with Micro-USB to USB Charge and Sync Cable) is a nifty li'l charger that powers up well to your devices' expectations. It is a premium charger for Tablets and Mobile bundled with Micro USB Sync/Charger Cable

Its main features are:

• Compatible with many smartphones and tablets
• Output: 2.1A (robust for today's devices)
• Ultra compact design (travel-friendly)
• Micro-USB cable (4 feet length)

 Get the device here.

Note: The links in this page are affiliate links.

Best OTG pendrives for smartphones and Tablets 2015

What if I told you that you could use an USB device on a mobile without a mini-USB adapter cable? Chances are you may say no. However all that is set to change with the entry of OTG USB pendrives. Best OTG pendrives for smartphones and Tablets 2015.

What is OTG?

OTG stand for 'On the Go'. It means that basically you need not waste time waiting to connect some cables to make it compatible to connect some devices. In other words just plug 'n' play.


There are quite a few devices in the online market and I will be listing them here. I regularly buy stuff and am a heavy user but when I see a good product I get an inclination to recommend it to my readers. Not many of you may have the time to choose a device, like these small but useful pen-drives, and that is where I feel this blog comes in.

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The first in the list is : Kingston Data Traveler MicroDuo 16 GB GB On-The-Go Pendrive

Pros:

• Small compact size.
• Good read/write speed
• Budget friendly.
• Compatible with OTG supported phones.
• 5 Years warranty.

Cons:

• Slight Heating problem when used in certain devices.
• Not as fast as USB 3 Pendrive.
•  

 Get it here: Kingston Data Traveler MicroDuo 16 GB GB On-The-Go Pendrive



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The second in the list is  : Sandisk Ultra Dual 16 GB 3.0 On-The-Go Pendrive (Black)

This one is a USB 3 Device. Which means it will read/write faster but comes with a small price difference which in this case is not that big. This device will pay itself in the long run.
Pros: Good speed in read/write
Compact and saves time.
Compatible with OTG smartphones and all Computers and Laptops that have USB 3 ports. In case you do not have an USB 3 port it will reduce speed to USB 2 levels (backward compatible)

Click here to see the product : Sandisk Ultra Dual 16 GB 3.0 On-The-Go Pendrive (Black)



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The third in the list is:  Sandisk Ultra Dual USB Drive 32 GB Pendrive (Black)


The third in the list is what I bought first: An USB-2.0  32 GB version of this device and I must say that it is wallet-friendly and a wallet-partner as I have loaded all the necessary stuff that I need and accompanies me 24/7 - things that are universal for my work. So I would recommend you to go for it without any further hesitation. It is a must for its sheer capacity and sturdy performance.
Pros: Compact size, Decent Speeds, Enough space to cover almost everything you may need.
Cons: USB 2. But that too is negligible unless you are transferring a very large file.

Get it here - Sandisk Ultra Dual USB Drive 32 GB Pendrive (Black)

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The Author Kishore Kumar is a gadget freak and loves to communicate. Also deeply spiritual he yearns for peace and friendship. Connect with him in fb or G+ and say "Hi!"
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Note all links in this post are affiliate links.

Best place to get a replacement battery for laptops in India

Question from Nitin Jhaveri: Help me CG. I have some doubts regarding my laptop. Can we put the Laptop to sleep for long periods of time since my battery seems dead and where can we get good trustworthy battery replacement? Reason I ask is because I have trouble with my laptop, in which I can't have the Laptop without charging wire connected permanently as else it shuts off instantly on battery mode. So I finally decided to look into a new battery.


Hi Nitin, केम छो ?

Are you sure that its the battery and not the charging jack or wire that is faulty?? Try asking a friend to loan his adapter wire for a few minutes to see if the supply is going through. Another idea is to take it to the nearest Comp shop and have them checked with other adapters. Hope its not a big issue.

Most people I know using modern laptops use sleep as the most common method of leaving the laptop. For laptops I have had, I always let it sleep for short durations but for longer time periods it will be a drain on the battery so it is a definite no-no for me.

Technically from a fully-charged battery, sleep may last several days. However, it is not advisable due to the following reasons:

• Wastage of battery charge reducing its efficiency.
• Increasing the charge cycles so that also is a minus.
• Heat generation.
• Hard disk goes to off mode when battery gets completely drained raising chances of HDD bad sectors.
• Waste of energy so not a good idea if you are bothered about the green aspect of saving energy.

Regarding your second question here is my answer.

There are many places to buy replacement laptop batteries, but my favorite is Amazon (US) (and the Indian Amazon would be the first place to go if you are from India due to faster Shipping).

Why Amazon ? There are several reasons:

• Price – Amazon has consistently lower prices in almost everything. Why pay more to your laptop manufacturer when you can get the same battery or a high quality equivalent for a lot less on Amazon?

• Stock variety – Amazon probably has a good selection of recent brands' replacement batteries to choose from.

• Trust – Quality of Amazon products will matter a great deal if its something as critical as a Laptop.

• Free Shipping – Amazon will generally waiver the shipping charges when the order total is $35 or more.

• Easy Returns – If you happen to order the wrong battery or if it is defective, no worry. Amazon’s easy return policy makes it easy to return and get a replacement immediately. If the product is defective they will arrange to pick it up or may reimburse the courier cost.

However don't take my word for it. Read their return policies here to know more.

How to Order a replacement battery for your laptop from Amazon.  Here’s how:

• Visit www.Amazon.com or Amazon.in and type your laptop’s brand and model number along with the keyword battery into the search box, then press Enter. For example, if you need a battery for a Dell Inspiron 15R N5010 you must type the following into the search box:

Dell Inspiron 15R N5010 battery

• Browse through the list of replacement batteries presented and select the one you’d like to buy. 

A general rule of thumb is to look for a battery with good reviews + rating on Amazon.

That is all there is to be done.

 

I am wondering why I did not use Amazon for my earlier purchases.

If you have any similar questions don't hesitate to get in touch with me using my contact link.
If your problem is solved I may consider posting your query as an article!


Note: The links in this post are affiliate links.





 

Add a Start Menu to Windows 8 (or 8.1)

Many of us were downright distraught when we saw the start button missing in the Windows 8 version. It looks like these MS guys toyed with us. They first made us addicted to the Start menu and then suddenly pull it from beneath our feet with the notion that it was a good idea to move on.

Not me.

I like to see what I want in my OS. So here is a handy li'l trick to bring back that button!

First, download Classic Shell (latest version of Classic Shell is 4.2.1) and install it from here. When a screen pops up asking which features to remove, select Classic Explorer and Classic IE9 since Windows 8 already had the latest versions.



After Classic Shell has been installed you’ll see your new “Start” button. The first time you click on it a configuration screen will pop up which will allow you to select a style to use.

Choose between 3 different styles: Classic, 2 Column and Windows 7.

I suggest choosing the style you are already most comfortable with, which for most people is probably Windows 7. After you’ve made your selection, Click “Yes” on the confirmation prompt and then “OK” to activate your selected style.

Also make sure that you fiddle around and see what are all the available options in Classic Shell
(see image on left).

You will love it!

I liked the option to show the free disk space and the total file size in the status bar.









Another one that bowled me over is that this plugin brings back the simpler dialog box from Windows XP. In Windows 7 when you copy files and there is a conflict, you are presented with this:

Now you will see this instead:

This one (from XP style) is pleasant and better for the eyes ain't it?

So there you are folks! Have fun till I bring something interesting for you all, the next time!

How to open “My Computer” with the keyboard.

The desktop of almost all computers has a “My Computer” icon which opens up the file explorer window (aka windows explorer) when you click on it. This feature is one of the most used components of Windows which means that many of us click on it several times a day.

Here is a tip: There is a super-fast way to open “My Computer” without even touching the mouse! 

Simply press the “Windows" key and the “E” key at the same time on the keyboard. The “Windows” key is typically located at the lower left corner of the keyboard below the alphabet "Z" (see diagram at right).

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And what if the My computer icon is missing from the Desktop?

We have a solution for that too.

Here’s how: 

1 – Right-click on an empty area of the Desktop.

2 – Click Personalize.

3 – Click Change Desktop Icons.

4 – Check the box beside Computer in the menu window that pops up. You can choose to either display or hide any of the icons listed inside this window simply by checking or unchecking them.

5 – Click Ok.

Great deal: SanDisk Ultra Plus 256 GB SSD with free shipping

The biggest factor to increase your computer performance and speed will be seen when you start using the solid State Drives. The Windos OS will boot  faster, programs will load faster and just everything will be different. In addition to speed they are virtually silent.


And if you do choose to go for one I would suggest not to miss out on the  

SanDisk Ultra II 240GB SATA III 2.5-Inch 7mm Height  (SSD) for lay users


or the


SanDisk Extreme PRO 240GB SATA 6.0Gb/s 2.5-Inch 7mm Height (SSD) with 10-Year Warranty if you are a heavy and tech-savvy user.

But there are a couple of things to keep in mind before such an upgrade.

• When comparing costs per GB, SSDs are considerably more expensive than traditional hard drives.

• Most affordable SSDs come in smaller GB capacity (which denotes the amount of data they can store).

Right now Amazon has a great deal on the SanDisk Ultra Plus 256 GB SATA 6.0 Gb-s 2.5-Inch SSD that does not have any of the problems mentioned above. Not only will they sell you one for just $93.99, they’ll also ship it to you for free! 

This 256GB SSD is covered by a 3 year warranty (US). Since it’s a 2.5 inch drive it will directly replace the hard drive in most laptops, and it’ll also work in most any desktop PC with an optional 3.5 inch adapter bracket (Amazon sells this one for just $6.99). 

If you’ve been looking for an affordable way to power up your Laptop or Computer's speed by upgrading to a decent size SSD, this deal is definitely worth considering. In my opinion, this is a great drive for entry level work for computer or laptop with some light gaming in mind. It will be the one you’d go with if you are looking for something to replace your old, grumpy, rickety hard drive.

However if you are a heavy user and need a robust SSD with a 10 year warranty (US) I suggest this one: SanDisk Extreme PRO 240GB SATA 6.0Gb/s 2.5-Inch 7mm Height Solid State Drive (SSD)
The 10 year warranty is a deal-clincher. It just goes to show that the manufacturer has faith it'll last that long which is a positive sign. Extreme PRO targets the PC gamers and professionals market.

Read the positive reviews here for the Ultra Plus:
Read the positive reviews here for the Extreme pro.



Note: The links in this post are affiliate links.

Windows Tip: How to convert a Desktop or Laptop into a WI-FI Router

How to convert a Desktop or Laptop into a Router using the ICS options in Windows 7/ 8 /8.1

If you are like me, you will want to be online 24/7 and when there is an outage in your cable broadband WI-fi router then you will look for other alternatives like Smartphone Hotspot or tethering, right?
Wrong if you were careless like me.
What happened to me last week was downright irritating and frustrating to say the least.


Difficulty level: 3/5
Success level: 3/5


So in case you are in a scenario where (like me):

• You are able to only access your internet via the LAN able.
• You want to share your internet somehow but the darned WI-Fi router is fried or roasted.
• Your connection seems to go ka-boom when its very urgent.
• You wished you implemented something while there was a proper Internet connectivity.
• Now that there is no connection you cannot even research into how to find a solution.
• Your Mobile 3G or 4G pack just ended yesterday or you could have hotspot'ed it.
• You wanted to access your neighbor's WI-fi but that too got encrypted last week (thanks to yourself).

 What would you do?

Its always better to be safe than sorry. OK... that was just plain silly to give you a piece of advice when I did not still offer you any thing tangible and was myself guilty of not having done it earlier. So without further ado let me get into the gritty-bitty of things.

First things first - you can convert your laptop or computer into a wireless router only if it has the latest WI-Fi card (or any latest WI-FI USB dongle) and a network card

If you have them, do as follows:

Part 1: Our first step is to Enable ICS (not Ice cream Sandwich but Internet Connection Sharing!). Not that you must know what the ICS stands for for it to work, but I just added it anyway so as to ruffle my geeky feathers :)

• To enable ICS in Windows, go to the Control Panel and click on Network and Sharing Center. Make sure you are in icon view and not category view. Click on Change adapter settings in the left-hand menu.
• Now right-click on Local Area Connection and choose Properties. 
• Click on the Sharing tab and now you must tick/check: Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s Internet connection.
• When you check the box, the dropdown box under Home networking connection will be enabled. 
• Here you want to select the wireless network connection for your wireless card.
• Important: If you have more than one network connection listed, it could be that one of them is a virtual adapter. Make sure to not choose that one. To make sure you can find out if it is a virtual adapter or not take a look look at all the adapters after clicking Change adapter settings at the beginning of this post. You will see that the Virtual adapters will have some number after it. Don't click on that one.
• Click OK and close the Properties window. Now the LAN connection is shared and we need to go to the next steps.

Part 2: Steps to Create Ad-Hoc Wireless Network (after completing the above steps in part 1).

• To create the ad-hoc wireless network that other computers will connect to, we need to go back to Network and Sharing Center and click on menu - Set up a new connection or network.
• Now click on Setup a wireless ad hoc (computer-to-computer) network.
• Click next and then give your network a nifty name. This name will be the SSID (your wireless broadcasting ID) for the network that other users will see on their computers. 
• Imp: For Security type, choose None and leave the Security key box blank.
• Check the Save this network box. Click Next and it will setup the new wireless network and tell you that it’s ready to use. Click Close and move on to Step 3.
• The new network is seen in the list of WI-Fi signals in your to-be connected devices and the status is shown as "Waiting for users". This means the host computer is waiting for other users to connect. You can click on the network name and click Connect if the system didn’t connect automatically. 

That is it!
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EDIT: There is a small change that needs to be done in case you are using Internet Explorer.
Open IE and then click on the gear icon and choose Internet Options.
Click on the Connections tab and then click on LAN Settings.

Uncheck anything that is checked here (Automatically detect settings must be unchecked for sure).
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EDIT 2: In case there seems to be a problem browsing any site (but the ping command is working fine), use this procedure to reset WinSock. Open cmd-prompt as administrator* and run this command without the quotes:

netsh winsock reset

(type it exactly or better copy it) and hit enter in the cmd window. You will be asked to restart the computer. Do it and see if it works now.

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Hope this article helped you. In case it did please share the word around folks!
If you have any other tech questions to ask, just send me a mail using the 'contact me' form.
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*Highlight the Command Prompt result in the Windows search bar and press Control-Shift-Enter. Doing so will automatically launch Command Prompt with elevated administrative privileges

Best UPS for heavy PC users at home.

Dear Cool Geek, I would like to ask you if there is a decent UPS, which fits my special need. You see I use my PC almost 24/7 and mainly for downloading stuff. I am not sure if I must go for the cheap UPSs' that seem pocket-friendly or to go for something that is better and delivers too. If there is one, then please suggest. My PC is Core I5 with 8 GB RAM and Windows 8.1. Moreover, will it have additional features? - Godwin Nadir

Are Anti-virus programs necessary?

I keep getting asked this question whenever I meet friends. I know its a no-brainer for most of you but when it comes to the real world there are far more people out there who do not know a thing about computers other than having seen them in the offices.

The first question in this regard is:
"Are Anti-Virus Programs (AV) really needed when you have the  Microsoft's inbuilt Bit Defender?"

The next usual question is "Which one is the best?"

I have of late been assigned the job of an in-house tech guy to call for, whenever their PC goes kaput. Sadly I get no money out of it. Jus' jokin' fellas! What are family/friends for?

Coming to the question: 

My advice is that if you are a heavy internet user but not very savvy in the tech department you need to definitely get one. Period.

The two main culprits, in my opinion, are unsafe links (like in phishing e-mails) and spyware-infested downloads usually cracks or keygens. One click of mal-link can steer you to a site that, just by visiting installs malware on your PC. Also many software sites are filled with graphic ads that appear  as download buttons. You innocently click one, thinking you are downloading a particular program, but when you go to install it, boom: malware zone!


While Windows 8.1 does offer a robust security shield I have to say that today's threats are evolving like crazy. Your PC may be shielded from what comes from the wire or wireless internet (it may not even be used for accessing the internet).  

But what if the threat is local - like an USB stick that has been popped in a net cafe? Get what I mean? You may be allowing these critters in without your knowledge!


I am sure the cost of a decent AV will pay you more in the long run. Most importantly it will reduce the heartache of data loss. Money can replace all the hardware in the world but not the data. That too your priceless personal data.


Good AVs perform better than the free ones for sure. So if you do not have the idea to buy in the near future I suggest you to install the trial versions at the least. And if you do want to get one here is a list of the good ones (some that I have used over the years) with no mishaps whatsoever.

My personal favorite is without doubt - ESET.

Deals on ESET (60% OFF) - valid as on Apr - 10th 2015

And guess what - they are offering a whopping 60% discount for now. So rush in and grab your deal.

My personal choice for most of the home purposes would be the ESET Smart Security packages.


For single PC Eset Smart Security Version 8 - 1 PC, 1 Year (CD) (INR 399/- As on today)

For 2-3 PCs (including Laptops) Eset Smart Security - 2015 Edition (8) - 3 Pc / 1 Year  (INR 1190/-)


Tip: If you have 4-5 systems at home go ahead and get the 5 PC-1 year pack. It works cheaper.

Eset Business Security Pack - 5 PCs, 1 Year (DVD) (INR 3866/-) 

Note: The links in this post are affiliate links.

Google Play Store App is missing - How to install manually?

What do you do if the Google Play Store app is missing in your Smartphone or Tablet. How do you install Google Play Store app manually?

There are plenty of tablets and smartphones that don't come with it pre-installed Google Play Store. In such cases there is a simple way to install this using an APK file and this will allow you to use the Google Play Store even if your device did not come pre-installed.

Google Play Store troubleshooting

Google Services Framework is an important service that lets the Play Store app function properly allowing for automatic updates and so on. If you experience any strange problems, then there may be a problem with the service, and you should consider clearing the cache on your device especially for these apps: Google Play Store and 'Google Play services.'

To do this manually:

• Go to Settings > Apps > Google Play Store, tap open, and click/tap 'Clear cache'.
• Ditto for Google Play services

That should fix most of the problems with the Play Store. 
Note: Sometimes, you may need root your rig to manually install the Play Store but that may null your warranty and is not advisable for the non-geeks.

So here is the method:

1. If your phone is connected to the WI-FI, go to XDA Developers forum or APK Mirror to download the APK for the latest version of the Play Store.
2. You may get a warning that 'this type of file can harm your device.' Ignore it and click OK.
3. Open the APK (you can navigate to the completed download by clicking at the message in your notifications menu), read the permissions that the new Play Store version requests, then click 'Install'.
4. You can also download the apk file in your PC and transfer it to a memory card via a card reader or transfer it to the device using the Micro-USB connection cable that came with the device.

So that is it folks! Let me know how it worked for you.

How to Deactivate Unwanted Value-added Services (VAS) on any Mobile Network in India?

Cell phone headaches!

People get irritated from the unwanted VAS (Value added services) activation on their mobile number. Sometimes this activation causes loss of our mobile balance (aka talk-time) while we are blissfully unaware!

Repeated calls to the customer care call-centers may not be to everyone's liking due to the connection delays or pain in getting the query answered satisfactorily.

Some people even change their Sim/mobile numbers due to these kind of problems. But this problem can be resolved easily by the method given below! There is no need to change the numbers or get frustrated due to sudden VAS charges deducted from your main balance.

How to switch to Google DNS for faster and better browsing times

Ever wondered why some pages are slow to load or some fail to load at all?

Or some sites are down for you while every Tom, Dick and Harry seems to tweet that it is accessible?

So you tried clearing the cache, You tried restarting your Router or Modem and yet...?
What could be the reason you are sidelined?

Did you do anything naughty while no one was watchin' you?

OK just joking about that last one...
So the answer is a small number set that determines how your computer accesses the internet.

Lest we enter what a DNS is all about I'll try to offer some repairs for you so you get movin' quickly.

***********

Your local ISP (internet service provider) may not have the best DNS servers configured, and that can slow down your browsing, since your browser needs to look up the IP address of every web site you try to view.




Here is how to switch to Google DNS for faster browsing times. Google DNS is the preferred DNS and is known for being fast, accurate and no restriction.

Navigate to Control Panel  >>  Network and Internet  >> Network and Sharing Center  >>  Change Adapter Settings.

Select the connection that you want to configure for Google DNS.

For example:

– To change the settings for an Ethernet connection, right-click Local Area Connection, and click Properties.

– To change the settings for a wireless connection, right-click Wireless Network Connection, and click Properties.


– Click on the Networking tab. Click on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and then Properties.

– Click on Advanced and then DNS tab.

If there is an existing IP address listed here or any DNS numbers , do write them down for future reference. Sometimes you need to revert back in case Google slows down or your ISP tech guy will insist that his ISP configuration instruction manual tells him that your DNS seems to be pointing differently than what is mentioned in his manual. I usually undertake to enlighten him about the fact that his ISP is not doing that great a job and is like a proverbial frog in a well. So that he can use these Google DNS numbers for his next client onwards.

For Google Public DNS, select Use the following DNS server addresses:

Preferred DNS Server: 8.8.8.8
Alternate DNS Server: 8.8.4.4

– Click OK and restart your network connection for changes to be applied.

That is it! You are now using Google Public DNS.

Be healthy... stop watching TV

Be healthy... stop watching TV for your sake! OK before you get confused let me explain. I have been subjected to an experiment by destiny where I was not allowed to switch on the TV (aptly named as the idiot box) due to the Public Exams of my children.

And that was an eye-opener.

I never knew that I had so much free time to spare (of course after the exams were over and my set-top box was disabled due to a long break). What else did I stand to gain? Read on...


This article is not about any tech device or advice on technicalities. It is a post on human expenses. What is meant by human-expenditure? Let me explain in detail. 

Warning! This may be a lengthy article so please bear with me.

I believe we are all living a life that needs to be anchored to some loft ideals and overall direction in a positive learning process and we do have a tendency to do that, by nature; it is inbuilt in all of us. What we do not do properly, is in identifying those things that lift us in a positive direction. 

We tend to get so involved with the senses that all signals that appeal to our sense organs tend to create a veil clouding our intellect. What is that veil? It takes time to realize that there is a 'veil of dust' clouding our intellect, and that too with great difficulty, as we are going against our body's pull to get to the source of that pull. That veil is the craving of the sense organs to satiate themselves. It is that veil that makes us NOT to go for a walk or stop doing something productive. It is that veil that causes addiction to that self-gratification of the senses.
It is that mindless addiction that happens in a state of unconscious living.  A life without awareness of what is good. Nowadays schools do not teach morals. They teach facts and knowledge that is of use in the physical world. Back in those days when I studied my classes had a moral-science class that was usually on the last day of the week (Friday). And in those days we discussed many things that would propel us in a positive direction.

When a man understands something as bad and unhealthy for the spirit, then he will not do it again. For eg., in the body level we understand that flame is a bad thing to touch as we may have got burnt once in our life (as toddlers) and that experience was so deep that we never felt the need to take an oath to NOT touch it. We just don't do it because we know deep down...
However when we go from the gross to the subtle the intellect does not have that depth of analysis in everyday life as we do not have the skill to listen to it and push the information to that same depth atleast not at all times of the day. In other words we need to be yanked out of our comfort zones to understand what is happening in our life in its true light and color. More like as though we are living a life of self-hypnosis and self-imposed conditioning layers.

Our attachment to all sensual (as in coming from the sense organs) signals is derived from our body. And what we do with those signals is the job of our mind. Take it or discard it. But when you see a carbonated drink being gulped by a action super star (who BTW makes millions by that advertisement) we will see that it creates a chaotic scenario in our interpretation corner of the brain.

And most of the time we see these ads in a state of stress-busting zero-analysis time of the day. The mind is triggered to work in the office or outside the home but at home we are half-aware. So these ads get impregnated as positive signal in the minds of the watchers.

Imagine if a TV ad of 1 minute duration can pummel your mind to a state of zombie-like acceptance then what could a mindless serial (especially those that continue to drag and drag for years without having a shred of sense in the storyline) do to your psyche?

I am not a psychologist or a psychiatrist but I can say what happened personally is that initially there was a sense of deprivation and withdrawal symptom but then the higher cause of my children's examination sunk in. More than me it was my better half who felt the impact of this abstinence as she was well entrenched in most of the going-ons in the serials of the idiot-box while I was only hooked to one. Later we took it in our stride, and now, we have that master-switch to switch it off if it borders on the insane. 

Now I know why the serial actresses always were thick make-up and gorgeous sarees and outfits - to keep all of us occupied. The women look at the glorious costumes that the actresses wear while the men look at the ladies. Sometimes wondering why the heck is that female having mascara while asleep or just waking up. And all that is so loudly seen in the HD TV!!!

Even now as the TV is blaring in all its glory, I am writing this article, as I know that it is a waste of time, especially in watching a program that exposes the wrong-doings of a reality dance show for kids, and the very first ad that I heard was an ad for upcoming reality show auditions in the various metros in India! What an ironic way to prove that these channels are dumb asses!

So if you are addicted to watching TV serials or senseless reality shows, take a time out. Learn gardening or start writing a blog. You will never know how well you can write unless you write!
Not that all channels are bad but to choose one that will fit your goals, requires discretion... and to not watch the negative ones requires a lot of will-power and retrospection.

More later!

Say Goodbye to Electronic Leeches - Save power!

Say Goodbye to Electronic Leeches - Save power!

You may be surprised to know that your power consumption bill is home to many unsuspecting sources of power wastage that can be removed if you just knew this simple fact about 'Electronic Leeches' (that's right you heard it first here). There is a tendency to ignore switching off small devices like adapters and chargers that are permanently switched on and also the UPS that is almost always 'on'.

We think that these devices do not consume much power. But let me tell you that our electrical supplies are actually being sucked by these electronic leeches. They are slowly draining the power lines and we would be blissfully paying more since these days we are being charged on a slab rate by rhe electricity department... atleast till now.

A list of 'Electronic leeches':

The most common leech is the small charger or power adapter that is plugged 24/7 in the wall socket sipping current, even when there is no device connected or is not switched on. 

If your house has a many of them plugged in 24 hours everyday, that would add up to kilowatts being added to your power bill every month!

Other “leeches” include TVs, high speed broadband modems/routers, laptops, computers, printers, speakers, kitchen/bathroom appliances and a plethora of household electronic devices.

As long as these devices/appliances remain plugged in to a power outlet they will continue draining electricity even when switched off.

Solution:

The best way to prevent this wastage from our houses it to unplug the devices from their electrical outlets when not in use. Period.

If they are far away from reach or hidden buy a power strip (or even better, a surge suppressor strip) makes it easy to “unplug” several devices at once simply by unplugging the power plug from the wall socket or switching off the power strip

As far as possible avoid charging the devices in the night. This will allow you to save on wastage when the devices reach full charge within 2-3 hours but you will be asleep to switch off the adapter. 
There is another advantage to this system. That is safety from thunder and lightning charge entering your homes and destroying gadgets worth thousands of bucks. Better to be safe than sorry!

Bottom-line: 

While there is an activity involved with regular unplugging and re-plugging, trust me it isn’t all that big a deal when you consider the benefits. If saving money on your power bill and protecting your expensive gadgets from lightning strikes is important to you, then you need to walk this path and enlighten others via social media.

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