Q When I send large files with my dial-up connection, the system often disconnects from the web. What can I do?
David Hall, via e-mail
Advertisement
A Sending large files by e-mail on dial-up causes problems because many ISPs set these accounts to time out after a short period when uploading or downloading. Essentially, they are trying to stop you from hogging the line. Try the free JR Split File program (tinyurl.com/4u62q), which divides up your files and sends them as smaller chunks. If you are able to, why not think about upgrading to broadband?
Crash inquest
Q My laptop hangs when it goes into hibernate mode. What can I do to fix this?
Denis Wilkinson, Worcester
A You must eliminate all possibilities, one by one. First, unplug any network cards, USB peripherals or other attachments. Did you install any drivers or software before the machine started misbehaving? Try uninstalling them. The power settings may not be correct — change them in Control Panel, Power. If all else fails, it’s most likely you have a corrupt registry. This may require a reinstall of Windows.
Easy reader
Q How can I increase the size of text on websites?
Michael Mace, via e-mail
Advertisement
A Every web browser has a text-size configuration feature built in. In Internet Explorer, go to View, Text Size, then alter the font sizes. The Virtual Magnifying Glass at magnifier.sourceforge.net is another option. I also recommend the Zoom feature in the free Opera web browser (www.opera.com), which offers a superb close-up setting for easy readability.
dontpanic@sunday-times.co.uk