Top 11 Free Programs and Ultilities

Freeware Programs, PC Programs and Software Currently 4 comments »

Here is a list of the top 11 most popular and useful programs. They are all free to download, just click the programs’ name to be directed to a download page at File Hippo.

Top 11:

Firefox – Internet browser.

VLC – Media player.

K lite codec pack– Codecs.

CCleaner – Clears unused and temporary files.

MSN Messenger – Instant messenger.

AVG – Anti virus.

DVD Shrink –  Copy and burn any DVD.

Spybot S&D – Malware, spyware and adware removal tool.

iTunes – Music playback and organization.

Winamp – Music playback and organization.

Speedfan – Monitor fan speed, cpu usage etc.


Common solutions for MSN Messenger issues

General PC Tips LEAVE A COMMENT! »

MSN Messenger is an instant messaging program and an essential tool for a lot of computers users. However, it can be very disconcerting when problems occur. This includes prevention of installation or sign in issues. MSN Messenger is developed by Microsoft for usage on Windows operating systems. If you are running a pirated copy of a Windows operating system, it may be difficult to use this program to it’s full potential due to Microsofts attempts to decrease piracy of their software. This includes prevention of Windows Updates which can prevent MSN working in some cases.

Problems installing MSN/Windows Live Messenger are quite common but there are many things you can do to troubleshoot the problem. In many cases older versions of MSN will not work, causing users to be prompted to install the latest version. So it would be wise to download this small 2mb .exe that will allow you to download the full program opposed to downloading an older version and being prompted to download that same file anyway.

If you are trying to install messenger from this .exe and get the following error message: “To install live programs, you must be online. Please connect to the internet then try again.” this problem can be solved by going to the Windows Update website and downloading/installing updates.

If you have managed to install but you cannot login properly, try these steps:

  • Re-download and re-install.
  • Allow MSN access through your firewall, or just disable your firewall altogether. Aswell as your Windows Firewall, some anti-viruses have their own so make sure to check them aswell.
  • If you are behind a router be sure to forward the ports that MSN uses. An easy guide to this can be found at www.portforward.com
  • Update to the latest version as some older versions are unsupported.
  • Check your clock and date is set to the right time.
  • Perform a Windows Update.

If problems persist, Web Messenger is a temporary solution for your IM needs.

Attaching a Case Fan With Rubber Bands

PC Hardware Currently 2 comments »

Well I recently purchased a clear case fan with multicoloured LEDs for only $5 (including free delivery). After it arrived I realised it didn’t come with any screws so I improvised with a rather unorthodox solution and used four (actually six) rubber bands. It was a simple process that involved feeding the rubber bands through the holes (the holes the screws were meant to go into) and tying the other ends to the case.

After I installed the fan, I wriggled the fan around to see if it would take some pressure and it stayed firmly in place, meaning it should last awhile before anything happens. Even with the fan and computer turned on, it has not moved at all and has assisted in cooling my motherboard for days without problems.

Click to enlarge.

Case Fan

Looping the rubber bands through the holes.

Rubber bands

A view from the top of the case, with the fan securely attached.

Motherboard and fan

My setup with the new fan attached (top right).

PC Curb Test Drives Race Driver: GRID

PC Games LEAVE A COMMENT! Currently 1 Comment »

May and June 2008 marks the release of Race Driver: GRID worldwide. It is a superb racing game that features realistic graphics and gameplay. It is developed by Codemasters and has been released on the following platforms: PC, Playstation 3, Xbox 360 and Nintendo DS.

‘Race Driver: GRID’ is like no racing game I have ever played due to it’s realistic environment and the beauty of each of the racing cars. This  is strictly a racing game. There are lots of AI as audience members but they are all protected by barriers meaning there is no running down people like in Grand Theft Auto. You also race against other cars, all being AI. They can also be quite aggressive at times, particularly during the start of races, as they try and run you off the road.

PC Curb has recorded a compilation of sequences in the game to give you a taste of what the game looks like. I highly recommend you go out and buy or download this because you won’t regret it. Also note if you already own an Xbox 360, the PC version of the game is compatible with the controller so you should be able to plug and play and use a joystick instead of a keyboard.

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PC Curb’s new Youtube Channel.

Click to enlarge.

GRID

Race Driver: GRID

GRID

GRID

Some Nice Case Releases From Gigabyte

PC Hardware Currently 4 comments »

Gigabyte produce lots of computer products including cases, motherboards, keyboards, mice and water cooling system equipment and more. Gigabyte have a good reputation from customers because they produce reliable products for competitive prices.

If you are in the market for a new case you should consider buying a Gigabyte. Here are a few of the newest case released from them:

The first is 3DAURORA 570S. It features a sleek design with an aluminum shell. It has a decent sized side panel that allows the included blue LEDs to shine through and illuminate the components inside.

Second is the 3D Mercury. It is quite a large case but makes up with for this by having a better cooling ability than most cases. It comes all ready to go with liquid cooling if the customer decides against using fans.

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