Deciding if you want a Chromebook is the first step. Deciding Samsung Chromebook vs Acer Chromebook is the next.

Chromebooks were made by Google to run on Google’s new operating system, Chrome OS.

Differences between a Chromebook and the operating system you may be accustomed to:

• The Chromebook operating system is cloud-based. This means that most of your storage is through the Google cloud. Your information is then accessible through almost any computer, via the internet.

• Because of the cloud-based operating system, your Chromebook will rely heavily on access to the internet. Although you can use it without internet access, it kind of defeats the purpose. After all, these machines were designed by Google.

• The Chromebook itself is designed differently from typical laptops and netbooks. The keyboard is shaped differently and includes new keys for different purposes unique to Google.

If you are comfortable with trying a new operating system, what you have to decide with your Chromebook is if you want a Samsung Chromebook vs Acer Chromebook.

Both have:

• Google Chrome operating system.

• Google Chromebook’s instant boot time. Chromebooks boast less than eight seconds for start up time.

• Intel ATOM Processor N570.

• Both come equipped with stereo speakers, integrated audio controller, integrated webcam, and full support for the latest Adobe updates.

• Two USB ports and multi-use card slots.

• Both can only connect to printers through Google Cloud Print only.

Samsung:

• These Chromebooks come in silver or white.

• Are bigger than Acers at 12.1-inch display size.

• Have an LED, non-gloss display.

• Have a touch pad mouse and buttonless type with a gesture support touch pad feature.

• The Google Chrome keyboard on a Samsung Chromebook is 74 keys and full-sized.

• The battery life is up to 8.5 hours.

• Samsungs run about $80 more than Acers.

Acer:

• These Chromebooks only come in gray.

• Have an 11.6-inch display size.

• Have an HD widescreen display.

• Just a touch pad.

• The Google Chrome Keyboard is full-sized.

• The battery life is about 6 hours.

• Acers tend to run cheaper.

What you select really depends on your needs. If you need a longer battery, clearer display and more options, spending more money on a Samsung Chromebook might benefit you.

Always Have A Computer Repair Specialist On Call

If you need more help deciding, or require more information, TalkLocal can connect you with the professionals that know the ins and outs of computers and computer repair. Our search function is ultra-simple and cuts down on your search time significantly.

It can be frustrating when you need to work with both Linux and Windows operating systems. The less-than-convenient solution to such a problem is to place two computers side-by-side — one running on Linux and the other on Windows — and toggle between the two based on your needs. However, learning how to run Linux and Windows at the same time and on the same computer is ultimately the solution.

If you are trying to figure out how to run Linux and Windows at the same time, consider these methods:

1. While you certainly have your share of choices of what version of Linux to use, trying going with the popular Ubuntu. Start by downloading Ubuntu as an  .iso file. This will allow you to boot it up.

2. When you download Ubuntu, either burn it onto a CD or put it on a flash drive. Either way will work and will allow you to boot the program on a new computer.

3. Once the program is stored, you can insert the CD or flash drive in a computer with Windows and boot it up right from the storage device. This does not install the program on Windows, but does let you use it.

4. To install Ubuntu on Windows, insert the CD or flash drive, open ‘Windows Explorer’ and select ‘Run wubi.exe’. After that, select ‘Install inside Windows’. The next time you boot the computer, it will boot Linux and set it up, making it available for future use.

5. Or, you could use a Virtual Machine. Many of these programs are free. It is very easy to install Ubuntu on a Virtual Machine and you won’t need to boot the program from the CD or flash drive.

Need Assistance?

For the less computer savvy of us, help is available in your local area — you just need to find it. TalkLocal can instantly put you in touch with a qualified professional that can help take care of this for you.

You’ve finished building your first computer, which means it’s smooth sailing from here, right? Not entirely true. There are a few common problems for custom built computers, especially if it’s the first one you’ve built. The suggestions below address some of the most common custom built computer problems, so you can enjoy a perfectly functioning machine — that you happened to build with your bare hands!

Custom Built Computer Problems…And Fixes

1. Check that the 4-pin or 8-pin CPU power connector is plugged in. This is also called the “12v ATX.” You computer receives its power through this connector.

2. Check that the power connectors are attached to the video card.

3. Ensure that the video card is properly attached.

4. Check that standoffs are installed in the appropriate place on the motherboard. A misplaced standoff can cause a short, which stops your computer from booting.

5. Check that the memory modules are properly attached.

6. Try starting your computer with only one RAM installed.

7. Ensure that you are using the right RAM slots for the motherboard.

8. Inspect the motherboard for bent pins.

9. Check that you plugged in the CPU fan.

10. Ensure that you turned on the power supply switch behind the PSU.

11. Look for any loose screws.

12. Check that there are no wires under the motherboard. The soldered wires can cause a short by cutting the insulation of other wires.

Get Professional Help

Custom built computer problems can be tricky to solve because of the unique combination of the computer’s components. When in doubt, have a professional take a look at your computer to diagnose your problem. TalkLocal can connect you directly to local computer repair services within minutes. Fill out an online service request and state your location, availability, and problem once –because nobody likes repeating their computer problems — and TalkLocal will find multiple service providers who can help you.

Have you ever been in the middle of speed-typing an essay/email/cover letter when you realized that certain keys on your laptop’s keyboard are not working? When certain laptop keys are not working, it is likely not an issue with the entire keyboard, but more likely with those individual keys. We have some tips that may help when certain laptop keys are not working.

Certain Laptop Keys Are Not Working

1. It is recommend that you first buy a can of compressed air. Use this to spray down the keyboard to loosen and clean any dirt or food stuck under the keys preventing. By cleaning under the keys, you will clear anything under the keyboard that is disrupting your key strokes from going through.

2. If there are only several keys that are not responding, look at the manual of your computer and look at the keyboard section. If the manual states that keys can pop off the keyboard, pop off the affected keys with a flat-head screw driver, clean them, put them back on, and try using them again.

3. There is also a membrane under the keys in the keyboard. If the keys were pressed too hard, then the membrane may have been destroyed for several keys. If you are confident enough to open up the keyboard, you can buy a membrane that fits your keyboard and replace it.

4. There may also be a problem with the connector cable for the keyboard. If the cable is loose, it may disrupt a column or two of keys. When the keyboard is open, push the cable back in firmly and securely.

5. Try to plug in an external keyboard into the laptop with a USB cable. If the new keyboard works correctly, then it is evident that there is a problem with the original keyboard. If the second keyboard does not work correctly, there may be a problem with the computer and device manager. In this case, uninstall the driver then re-install it.

Additional Help

If you would like a computer repair technician to take a look at your faulty keyboard, just use TalkLocal. Just tell us what you need, where you are, and your availability, and we will find the right professionals, who will then call YOU directly, ready to help. Our service is fast and free, so try it out!

LCD monitors are very fragile. If your desktop LCD monitor has a cracked screen, you will need to replace it. However, if your laptop’s LCD screen is cracked, then you can fix it yourself, which saves you money and time.

How to Fix A Cracked LCD Monitor

You will need to purchase a new LCD monitor according to your manufacturers requirements.

1)     Turn off the laptop and remove the screws (located under the screw covers) in your LCD monitor.

2)     Carefully remove the plastic frame around the LCD monitor. Disconnect any wires and cables attached to the screen and note where they attach. Remove the LCD screen.

3)     Put the new LCD screen in place, ensuring that it is the correct size and type. Connect the appropriate wires and cables to your new screen.

4)     Screw the plastic frame back on your monitor securely and replace the screw covers over the screws. Turn on your monitor to ensure that it is working properly.

Need Professional Help?

If the damage is more serious, take your LCD monitor to a technician. TalkLocal can help connect you to the best IT professionals in your area when you need them most. We will connect you with up to three, high-quality professionals in just minutes, for free!

“My desktop is slow and unresponsive!” In this age of instant information, a slow computer can have you banging your head against your desk, repeatedly.  A slow and unresponsive desktop typically results from a buildup of junk files and/or malware. Regularly clearing your desktop of malicious files will help maintain your computer’s speed and performance. Free tools are available to help clean up your desktop.

Free Tools to Clean Up Your Desktop

CCleaner will clean out junk and temp files from your PC. Once it is installed on your desktop, click on “Run Cleaner” to eliminate harmful junk files.

Antivirus software such as Malwarebytes and Windows Defender will protect your desktop against viruses and spyware that slows down your PC.

You can also increase your PC’s speed by installing more RAM. You can purchase RAM memory modules from online sites like Amazon and Newegg or from your local computer electronics store.

Need Help Cleaning Up Your Desktop?

A computer technician will be able to help you clean out your computer of unwanted files, and could even give you some tips to keep your computer clean in the future. TalkLocal will connect you with up to three, high-quality computer technicians in your area. Just tell us what you need, where you are, and your availability, and we’ll find the right professional for you in just minutes, for free!

The case prevents your Macbook’s hardware from getting damaged. However, a dysfunctional Macbook case can prevent air from circulation, which leads to overheating. In the worst case, your laptop overheated, and the Macbook case melted. It may be a small bit of damage that does not affect your Macbook’s performance, but laptop overheating is an issue that must be dealt with to prevent further damage.

Overheating and Macbook Cases

When your Macbook melts like butter, overheating is the problem. Overheating can be caused by fan failure, dust accumulation, and setting your laptop on soft surfaces with poor ventilation.

Some Macbook cases block air vents, turning your Macbook into an oven that cooks itself. They insulate the heat so that the heat cannot disperse through the thick, strong case material. Consider getting a more appropriate case if your Macbook is overheating; plastic case is better than foam. Also, try removing your Macbook from its case if the Macbook is getting too hot.

You may also have to use fans underneath or behind your laptop as you use it, to try to cool it down. However, this is really just a temporary fix.

Get Your Computer Repaired

For further assistance, go to the Apple store or contact TalkLocal to be connected with computer repair professionals in your area. Just tell us what you need, where you are, and when you’re available, and we will connect you directly with up to three local professionals. You will be able to get the help you need, when you need it, in just minutes — for free!

If you can’t open your CD tray, you might think you’re stuck and in a jam, but there usually are a couple of easy ways to diagnose and solve your problem. We have some tips for you if your computer or laptop’s CD door won’t open.

Step 1: Check Possible Locking Software

Some software can actually prevent the CD drive from opening, so make sure that such software or programs are not currently running.  If you can’t figure out which program is locking the CD drive, you can always reboot your computer and eject the tray as it’s booting up.

Step 2: Virtual Eject

Open up My Computer, right-click the disc drive, and choose Eject.  If this ejects your CD drive, then the drive most likely has a faulty eject button, and you should replace it as soon as possible.

Step 3: Check Cable Connections

Check the cable connections within the computer.  The power connection leading to the CD drive may have gotten loose or disconnected.  If that’s the case, once you open up your computer’s casing, make sure you discharge any excess static and then reconnect the power cable to the CD drive.

Step 4: Manual Eject

You can use a paper clip or a pin to manually eject the CD drive.  There should be a small recessed button by the tray eject button that should manually eject the disc drive.  However, if you plan on continuing to use the disc drive, your disc drive is most likely defective and should be replaced as soon as possible (rather than continuing to use a paper clip).

Further Assistance

If none of the above steps worked for you, or you are unclear about how to proceed with any of these steps, use TalkLocal to contact a local, high-quality IT professional immediately.  It’s fast, easy, and requires almost no effort on your part!

Is your custom built computer not turning on? Building a customized computer can be very rewarding, but it also means there is plenty of room for mistakes. If your custom built computer has difficulty turning on it can mean a variety of different problems. Consider each of these issues to troubleshoot your custom-built computer’s start-up issues.

Faulty Power Supply

Your PC may have a broken power supply or a power supply with inappropriate wattage. You can use a website like eXtreme Power Supply Calculator to determine the necessary PCU wattage. Test your power supply by pressing the power button on your PC. If the green light and fan turn on, then your power supply is working. Evaluate other computer parts to find your problem.

Motherboard, PCU, and RAM

Assuming the power supply works, a PC should boot with a sufficient motherboard, PCU, and RAM. Try replacing each part to determine the source of the problem.

Further Assistance

If you need additional help building your customized computer, you can find a computer repair professional in minutes with TalkLocal! We will connect you with up to three, local, high-quality professionals who are available to help you when you need them.

What is an IP Address?

An IP address is very much like the street address of a house. IP addresses consist of four numbers separated by dots that come together to form a unique address for each machine and device belonging to an internet network. Consider the IP address to be like a street number, street name, city, and zip code.

Routers and also have IP addresses, which may be important to know if you are setting up a new wireless router. If you cannot find the router IP address, there are multiple ways to find it.

Finding the Router’s IP through Windows Functions

Provided that your computer is connected to the internet through your router, your router’s IP address is already registered in your computer. You can find out your router’s IP address by accessing the Run dialogue box inside your computer.

Simply follow these steps:

1. Click the “Start” button on your taskbar.

2. Type “Run” in the search box and open the Run program.

3. Inside the “Run” box, type “cmd”.

4. This is the windows command screen, also known as the “DOS window”.

5. Type “ipconfig”. The screen will now display information about your current network. The router’s IP address is found under the section labeled as the “Default Gateway”.

Finding the Router’s IP through External Functions

You can also simply use the internet to access a website that will run an IP trace on your connection and display the results to you.

Additional Help

If you need additional help regarding this matter, TalkLocal can help you find up to three computer repair professionals in your area. Just tell us what you need, where you are, and your availability, and we’ll connect you with the right professional in just minutes, for free!