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Tech Corner - Technology News & Tips for the Business Computer User

Windows 7 – The Real Deal at Long Last

If you are among those of us that use computers for business who have felt disappointment with the Vista version of Windows – prepare for a very pleasant surprise. Windows 7 seems to be the real deal. Most of the new and neat things that we had hoped for and found lacking in Vista are real and working well in WN7 and that’s just the beginning. WN7 is actually easier to use and the versions we have tested have been almost bug free!

Speaking in general terms WN7 is better organized and more intuitive than any OS that Microsoft has ever released in the past. The Internet is full of articles and blogs that describe and dissect all the new bells and whistles in WN7 so I won’t repeat that here. I’m going to focus on the aspects of WN7 that matter to 1Goal customers and partners who will be using the new OS on computers that drive their business. And in that regard, WN7 has one thing in common with all of its predecessors – the dreaded task of upgrading and moving all those programs and all that data (your stuff) that you currently use over to the new system.

The Down Side of Upgrading

For users of the Vista operating system it will be possible to upgrade your existing OS live but I would recommend a reformat and new install of Windows 7 over the upgrade option if possible. Think of it like hooking up new PVC plumbing to old cast iron plumbing in your house. It’s definitely doable but it requires some connections that are dubious at best and cause for some paranoia once you know they are there. Every faint noise in the house at night sounds like water running in the basement. I would rather not have the worry. But that’s just me, based on what I know about Windows.

The term live upgrade means that you start your existing version of Windows, insert the new Windows 7 installation DVD, click a few choices and then Windows does all the work. There is no live upgrade option for XP users to WN7, and that is a going to be a problem. The reality is that some 60% to 70% of us using computers in shops and small technology companies are still using XP Pro due to disappointment with or fear of Vista. The upgrade process will not be a smooth one in my opinion. The only upgrade scenarios for an XP user involves saving out and reinstalling all programs and data – or finally breaking down and buying a new computer.

Some tech bloggers are claiming that the lack of an XP upgrade option smells like a payback to the big computer makers for lost sales caused by Vista, but we really should give Microsoft the benefit of the doubt on this. It is almost always better to do a fresh install than an upgrade, and for most computers old enough to have XP as their native OS, there will be hardware issues to address as well. So the lack of an upgrade path is probably for the best in the long run – but it won’t be popular.

You basically have three options for making the move to Windows 7. Upgrade your existing computer, buy a new computer and move all your stuff at once or add Windows 7 as a second OS on your existing machine and move your stuff in a controlled process. Before we look at these three options in more detail, it’s important to understand the potential pitfalls involved in upgrading to WN7 regardless of your current OS.

Be Careful Where You Step

First, don’t be confused by the advertising or packaging for the upgrade versions of WN7. It may sound like you can upgrade live from XP but make no mistake about it – it’s going to make you backup all your stuff and then it’s going to wipe your hard drive clean.

Next, if you are thinking about making the move to a 64 bit WN7 system from a 32bit system of Vista, be prepared to go through the same upgrade process as an XP user. You can’t upgrade any running 32bit system to a 64bit system without a reformat.

If you have been checking out the trial versions of the new OS, you should know that you can't upgrade from a pre-release version of WN7 to the final version of WN7. You'll also need to do a clean install.

And for you folks with XP who are trying to do an end run around a reformat – sorry, upgrading from XP to Vista and then Vista to WN7 won’t work either.  We’ve tried it and it involves so much flakiness and so many random issues that it’s just not worth the trouble.

Best Options for XP Users

With Windows 7 now out on the market and getting positive reviews, the end of life as we know it for XP won’t be far behind. Now the two big questions for XP users are what is going to be the best option for upgrading and how quickly should it be done?

Choosing the best option is somewhat complicated and we will cover that next but deciding when to make the move is not – you need to start thinking about it right now. Before you know it staying with XP will bring various little incompatibility issues with new software, hardware and peripherals. It will begin like those first few big drops of rain on the leading edge of a storm then it will turn into a downpour.

Based on the testing and research done by our 1Goal Gear system builder Dave and I, what follows are the three best options for upgrading to Windows 7. Some of these options may require assistance if you are not particularly tech savvy, but we have tried to include only the options that are worth the time and cost considering the quality of the result.

Change the Diaper on Your Existing Computer

Like the heading above implies, this option wipes your hard drive clean and gives you a fresh start with your existing computer. In short, you just install Windows 7 as a new OS, replacing XP. Basically there is no good way to accomplish this option but to reformat your hard drive, load all new drivers, reload old software and then transfer all your files into the new OS from a backup. You will find articles on the Internet that advise using the old Vista migration wizard that is buried in a support folder on the WN7 install DVD but in our testing it didn’t seem to be worth the trouble.  

If your old computer is up to the task from a standpoint of hardware, and drivers are available, you might as well accept the fact and the challenge of a complete re-install of your stuff. It’s critical that you do the research to verify that drivers for your computer’s components are available for WN7 and that the software you use in XP is compatible before you choose this option. Once that is done it’s just a matter of the time and effort. The best thing that you can do to make the process easier is to invest in another hard drive if you don’t already have a second drive in your computer to use for backups. Hard drives are cheap and if you don’t want to install a new internal drive, inexpensive portable USB hard drives big enough to hold all your stuff are available everywhere.

The Parallel Option

The safest and least stressful way to accomplish a Windows 7 upgrade on a machine running XP is to install WN7 in parallel, also known as a dual-boot system. This allows you to switch as needed between both operating systems each time your computer starts up.

There are many benefits to this option if the task setting up a new OS and re-installing all of your stuff in one shot is problematic due to a busy workload or fear of the unknown. With the parallel option you have a clean install of WN7 which you can install applications on and migrate your data into as time permits, and you still have your old XP system intact which you can continue to use without interruption for day to day work. When you have completed the transition to WN7, the old XP drive can be wiped and used for extra storage and backups.

The down side to this option is that you have to buy and install another hard drive. You can't have running copies of XP and Windows 7 on the same hard drive. They have to be on different partitions, or on completely different physical drives within the same computer.

Once the new drive is installed you simply start the computer with the WN7 installation DVD in the DVD ROM drive and follow the instructions, choosing the new hard drive as the destination for the new OS to be installed. Nothing is changed about your old XP setup. Once completed, a dual boot configuration simply prompts you at the startup screen to choose which operating system you want to use. You can still access all your files from either OS.

Some of the tech savvy folks on the blogs might advise you to repartition your existing drive and install WN7 on the new partition rather than installing a new drive, but we do not recommend it. This can be very tricky and if you don’t get it right you lose all your data. If you do get it right the old XP partition can have limited use when you do complete the switch to WN7.

The New Computer Option

Another option is to buy a new computer with Windows 7 pre-installed from the factory. Obviously, this option also requires that you backup all your stuff and reinstall it so much of the advice offered in the "diaper change" option also applies here.

For some of you reading this a new computer will be your only option due to the age of your existing XP computer. One of the most common misconceptions that I have heard about WN7 is that it runs better on older computers. While it’s true that Windows 7 is not as much of a resource hog as Vista, that’s not saying much in the big picture.

In our testing WN7 only offers a moderate improvement over Vista's resource requirements and that only applies to relatively new hardware that is compatible with WN7's new resource management capabilities. WN7 needs much more in the way of resources than XP to run fast and smoothly. While estimates vary, most of the studies that have been done by business groups that are trying to forecast costs for the upgrade within larger companies to WN7 suggest that upwards of 70% of existing computers running XP will have to be replaced – or the new OS could be slower than the old one.

The Good News

If you bought a new computer in the last couple of years you should be able to upgrade it and enjoy the benefits of Windows 7 without major upgrades to the hardware. All 1Goal Gear computers are guaranteed to be compatible with WN7 without any hardware upgrades. The availability of drivers for WN7 as of the release date is better than any new Windows version we have seen. If you buy a new computer with WN7 - connecting your network, printers and other external devices will be much easier than ever before. And best of all, once the upgrade is behind you I’m betting you’re going to like it allot.

Really Mac, trust me – this time will be different - no kidding.


Windows 32bit vs. 64bit OS’s

Like any other subject of common conversation, computer technology has its share of myths, rumors and urban legends in circulation at any given time.  One topic that seems to have the rumor mill grinding lately is the difference between 32bit and 64bit versions of the Windows operating system.

The release of Windows 7 has the potential to turn the discussion in a completely different direction, because WN7 is a completely different animal in this regard. This will no doubt add to the confusion that already exists.

This edition of the Tech Corner will attempt to set the record straight with fact based information about the differences and how to choose the right OS. But first, let’s put to rest some of the myths.

Busting the Myths

First and most prevalent is the myth that a 64bit OS is “future-ware” and of little use in the present day beyond the realm of high-end gaming since there are very few software applications that are written for 64bit systems. The fact is that 64bit versions of the Windows various operating systems have been in use for several years and there are cases where business computers with 64bit systems are quite useful today. WN7 offers drastic performance increases with the 64bit version, if you have the hardware to run it correctly.

Next is the myth that 32bit software will actually run slower on a 64bit OS. This is one of those strange urban legend type myths that is totally untrue but has a familiar ring to it so it spreads at a high rate of speed among those that don’t understand the topic – which would include most business computer users not involved in the business of I.T. The fact is that software written for a 32bit OS either runs fine on a 64bit OS or it is incompatible with obvious issues. Even incompatible software will run fine on a 64bit system in Vista and WN7 if the built in compatibility protocols are utilized.

Last, there is a smorgasbord of myths concerning specific benefits and perils with a 64bit OS on a computer. These myths are usually based in misinterpretation of facts about how much RAM is used by various operating systems and how OS’s work with drivers. This is not surprising, because the facts can be a bit confusing.

For example, many people think only 64bit versions of XP or Vista can use over 3GB of RAM. This is true for the most part but the 32bit versions of Vista can “recognize” up to 4GB of RAM in the system, even though no 32bit system can use the extra RAM for system processes like a 64bit system. Confused? Unless you have an integrated video device that can share the RAM, 32bit Vista can see 4GB but like XP 32bit it will only use 2.8 GB of the RAM for computing. 64bit Vista Business can use up to 128GB of RAM, a ridiculous concept for a workstation since peak usage for even the most demanding applications rarely exceeds 2GB of RAM. The primary use for major amounts of RAM is in start up of Windows and programs, and some other system processes like printing.  

64bit systems have the capability of using more RAM and running faster than 32bit versions but they are unable to accomplish this feat due to improper or poorly developed drivers. For this reason certain applications that rely on close integration with hardware like a video card or peripheral like a printer function poorly or experience errors with a 64bit system. Even though this is really a driver issue that isn’t actually related to the 64bit OS, the word gets around on the blogs that the 64bit OS is the problem since things seem to work fine in a 32bit system. WN7 is about to change all that for the better.

So what is the straight story?

It’s really pretty simple. 64bit versions of Windows are an excellent option where they fit the need, but they are only a fit for certain circumstances. For the purpose of this article, let’s assume that we are talking about business workstation computers only and not servers or computers for recreational or home use. Within that scope, what follows are the facts about 64bit OS’s for workstations.

The primary benefits of a 64bit OS are the increased computing capacity of having twice the bandwidth of data flow, the ability to use more system memory (RAM) and increased protection against malware and viruses. The main drawbacks are that there are a limited number of hardware drivers and virus software applications available for XP and Vista 64bit systems when compared to 32bit systems. WN7 promises to have a much wider compatibility with drivers than previous versions. Understanding what these facts actually mean is the key to making the right choice of OS.

RAM and the 64bit OS

Many people know that a 64bit OS will recognize and use more RAM than a 32bit OS but they don’t understand the primary function of RAM in a modern workstation computer. All current versions of Windows use RAM primarily as a buffer or loading mechanism when opening or closing the OS or a software application, or processing a file. This also includes OS functions like saving or processing files for storage or printing. Once a software application is open and running the speed at which it runs is primarily dictated by the horsepower of the processor (CPU) and other system components – not the amount of RAM.  

This buffering process is a function of the Windows operating system, not the software application or file being loaded, so it doesn’t matter if the software is designed for a 64bit OS or a 32bit OS – the increase in speed is still realized – if such an increase is possible.

Ah, now you may be asking why wouldn’t an increase in speed be possible?

Answer – if you have a robust, well matched set of hardware in your workstation currently, the computer may already be loading most applications and processing files as fast as possible with a 32bit OS! At a certain threshold of performance the increase in speed resulting from the ability to use more RAM may be negligible due to the limitations of how Windows works with hardware in all versions prior to WN7. Windows 7 has fundamentally changed that aspect of the OS so 64bit versions of the new OS are much faster than the 32bit versions – but only if you have the hardware to run it.

Also, all RAM is not the same. The type of RAM that is typically used in the average desktop computer that you might find in retail stores costs about 20 bucks for a 1GB stick and it has a capacity rating for bandwidth and speed that just meets the minimum requirements of the hardware and OS for that PC. A 1GB stick of high performance RAM can cost over $100 and have performance capacities that are exponentially higher than the $20 dollar stick. In terms of actual performance 2GB of high quality, high speed RAM with a 32bit OS can actually work better than 4GB of the cheap stuff with a 64bit OS.

64bit Systems and Software

With the exception of 16bit software (DOS) and older 32bit software that runs in 32bit Windows by using a 32bit shell over a DOS application, software compatibility issues with a 64bit OS are generally limited to virus software and hardware drivers. Almost all 32bit software applications that have been written for Windows XP or Vista will run fine and load faster (RAM and other hardware permitting) in a 64bit Windows operating system. If there is a problem, installing the software to run in compatibility mode assures that it runs in the 64bit OS just like it would run in a 32bit OS.

Virus software and hardware drivers must be 64bit versions, that is to say developed specifically for use with a 64bit OS in order to be compatible. This is due to the fact that bug-ware and drivers interact with parts of Windows that applications like design software or a word processor never use.

As always, there are certain exceptions to the rule. Some software applications rely on specific hardware drivers to function correctly, and those applications can have issues with a 64bit OS. Most applications that fall into that category are recreational in nature or non-essential for business. Examples might include music software like I-Tunes or software for a Bluetooth headset or mouse. Cheap discount rack software or shareware apps that are the product of low quality or non-standard programming practices may also have problems running in a 64bit OS.

We have extensively tested quality software applications like MS Office and CV Solid in 64bit systems and found no issues at all.

64bit Systems and Hardware

Most conventional drivers for quality mainstream hardware such as video cards, motherboards, network adapters, printers, keyboards and mice are readily available for 64bit versions of Windows. Once again there are exceptions. New multifunction printer-scanner devices and trendy new Bluetooth devices may not have drivers for 64bit applications even though they are quality products. Handheld devices like smart phones and PDA’s may also lack software versions to connect to a 64bit system. Software to connect digital cameras and drivers for memory stick readers may also have compatibility issues. This depends on market demand and the diligence of the hardware manufacturer in developing software and drivers and varies from one brand to the next.

64bit Systems and Virus Protection

The security benefits of a 64bit OS gets pretty technical in the details but the short story is that a computer running a 64bit version of Windows has certain additional protection against malicious or rouge software intrusion that is not possible in a 32bit OS. Many modern CPU’s have a type of protection built right into the hardware called DEP that will only function in a 64bit OS. Also, the 64bit versions of Vista protect the Windows Kernel (one of the most critical parts of the OS) from any modification by viruses or unauthorized software updates by drivers or programs. Not a big deal for most users but it’s a plus nonetheless.

Windows 7 Changes Everything

The trial versions of Windows 7 64bit that we have tested have been remarkably stable and compatible – far beyond any previous version of Windows. This is because WN7 has finally dealt with the issues that existed in previous versions regarding the use of hardware. Until WN7 the Windows OS was years behind the hardware that has been available in the market. WN7 makes use of modern technology in hardware while providing new levels of software compatibility that are long overdue.

Making the Decision

Speaking in the broadest terms, if you have a quality high performance desktop or notebook workstation that is relatively current technology you can probably update to a 64bit OS without major issues – but you probably don’t need to unless you are going to upgrade to WN7. If you are using a computer that is up to the task of running your business and manufacturing software applications now, the time and effort required to update to a 64bit version of older versions of Windows probably won’t be worth the minimal increase in overall performance.

Over the course of several years of bench testing we have rarely seen any business or manufacturing software application max out the system resources of the computers that we build and sell here at 1Goal with 32bit versions of Windows. Running applications on a single user workstation only needs so much horsepower and anything over and above that is just folly for bragging rights.

But we have sold lots of computers with older 64bit OS’s when that type of system was called for. For example, due to the speed constraints caused by heat management in laptops we have found that 64bit operating systems provide significant performance improvements with mobile computing technology over the 32bit versions. Also, we always suggest a 64bit OS for the dedicated CV Solid servers and server/workstation desktop machines that we build. This is due to the fact that multiple users accessing programs and files on the same machine can benefit from the 64bit OS’s ability to use of larger amounts of RAM much more than a single user workstation.

If you can see the need for a 64bit OS now that you have the facts then you might as well give it a go, but before updating an existing machine or ordering a new computer with a 64bit OS you just need to do some simple homework and you will avoid all problems. Verify that your virus software makes a version for 64bit systems and that compatible drivers are available for all your hardware and peripherals and then plan accordingly. You will want to backup everything before upgrading an existing system.

Here is one other tip. Hard drives are cheap. You might consider adding another hard drive to your new or existing system and setting up a dual boot machine. That gives you the ability to run your business software in the faster 64bit system and still boot to the old 32bit system for playing I-Tunes and rocking out with that Bluetooth headset that you love.

We always welcome your questions about computers for your business. Just give us a call or send an email and we will be happy to help.

 

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Tips to keep your computer running fast and trouble-free.

Daily Weekly Monthly Yearly

Update your virus and spyware definitions:

Perform a full spyware and virus scan:

Update your programs:

Clean out your PC case:

It is essential to keep antivirus software
up-to-date because viruses spread within hours.
Scheduling a total scan regularly can find anything damaging that is hiding in your system. Try Bit Defender if you don't have a good one. Check for vendors' software updates to make your applications more stable. The case collects dust therefore fans can become clogged. Use a vacuum cleaner or soft air pressure to carefully clean out the case.

Do an incremental backup:

Do a complete backup:

Check for new drivers:

Clean-up your programs:

It's not only quick, it's easy, to make a copy
of files that have changed since your last full backup.
If your drive fails, a backup of all your data will help you recover your information. To help stabilize and speed up your PC install the latest drivers for your devices. Make a full backup and use the restore CD to return your system to its original state.

When programs crash reboot your system:

Run Windows Update:

Use a one-click
utility-suite checkup program:

Do a full diagnostic check:

Restart your system after every crash to
clear it out. Failed applications can cause other programs to falter.
From the shortcut on the "start menu" obtain the latest patches from Microsoft to secure your system. To give your PC a thorough checkup use a utility suite on one CD, with one interface.
 
Use a diagnostic program to test your equipment and track down faulty components before they completely fail.

We build custom, special order computer equipment for manufacturing.