Q I want to give my ancient laptop to my niece, purely to introduce her to the internet, but the system disks are missing. What can I do?
Clare McGinn, North Somerset
Advertisement
A To breathe life into an obsolete machine for web browsing and e-mail, why not consider installing a small Linux operating system. Download a free version from tinyurl.com/cc9f3, or buy it on CD for less than £6. Boot the laptop with the CD in the drive and start the Network Wizard to connect to the internet.
SMARTER INKING
Q Do ink-saving software programs actually work?
Alex McManus, via e-mail
A I have tried only InkSaver (£20 from inksaver.com), which restricted the ink flow on my old Lexmark ink jet. Then I upgraded to a new printer, at which point it stopped working. These programs do work, but not all models are compatible, so bear this in mind if you decide to change your printer.
PACK INSTINCT
Q Is it safe to update to Windows XP Service Pack 2?
Roy Morris, via e-mail
Advertisement
A Microsoft has cleared up most XP SP2 issues, so it should be safe to install the update, which contains better security. That said, there may well be problems with older hardware or peripherals. Read Microsoft’s list of glitches at tinyurl.com/4txhx. Otherwise, search the net for your specific set-up (for instance, “HP scanners SP2 problems”) for any nasties. If so, perform the security updates, without SP2.
EXPRESS TRAINING
Q What’s the best way to back up my Outlook Express files?
Advertisement
Graham Stroud, via e-mail
A One method is to use the Windows XP File and Settings Transfer Wizard, which you can find under Start, Programs, Accessories, System Tools. It’s long-winded, but it works. You can find a guide at www.iopus.com/guides/free-oe-backup.htm. Or try Express Assist, about £17 from www.ajsystems.com.
dontpanic@sunday-times.co.uk