Month: June 2024

When your PC starts with a blue screen (often referred to as the “Blue Screen of Death” or BSOD), it typically indicates a critical system error. Here are some solutions you can take to troubleshoot and potentially fix the issue:

Solution 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary issues.

Solution 2: Unplug all external devices and then start the PC.

The PC gets BSOD because of an external device.

Solution 3: Boot into Safe Mode:

Restart your computer.

• Press F8 (or Shift + F8) repeatedly before the Windows logo appears.
• Select Safe Mode from the menu.
• If your computer boots into Safe Mode, it indicates a software issue. You can then troubleshoot further from within Safe Mode.

Note: If Windows 11 boots too quickly for you to access Safe Mode using traditional methods, you can use solution 4, 5, 6.

Solution 4: Use the Power Button to interrupt the Boot Process

1. Interrupt the Normal Boot Process:

• Turn on your computer.
• As soon as Windows starts to load, press and hold the power button for 10 seconds to force a shutdown.
• Repeat this process 2-3 times. On the third attempt, Windows should enter the Recovery Environment automatically.

2. Access Advanced Startup Options:

• Once in the Recovery Environment, you will see a screen with several options. Choose Troubleshoot.

3. Navigate to Safe Mode:

• From the Troubleshoot menu, go to Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
• After your PC restarts, you’ll see a list of options. Press 4 or F4 to start in Safe Mode. If you need to use the Internet, press 5 or F5 for Safe Mode with Networking.

Solution 5: Use a Windows Installation Media

1. Create Windows Installation Media:
   • Use another computer to create a Windows 11 installation USB drive using the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website.
2. Boot from USB:
   • Insert the USB drive into your problematic PC.
   • Restart the computer and boot from the USB drive. You may need to change the boot order in BIOS/UEFI to boot from the USB drive.
3. Repair Your Computer:
   • Select your language preferences, then click Next.
   • Click Repair your computer at the bottom left.
4. Access Advanced Startup Options:
   • From the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
5. Enable Safe Mode:
   • After the restart, press 4 or F4 to start in Safe Mode. Press 5 or F5 for Safe Mode with Networking if needed.

Solution 6: Use Command Prompt in Windows Recovery Environment

1. Enter the Recovery Environment:
   • Use the steps from Method 1 to force your PC into the Recovery Environment using the power button.
2. Open Command Prompt:
   • From the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.
3. Enable Safe Mode:
   • In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter: bcdedit /set {default} safeboot minimal
   • For Safe Mode with Networking, use: bcdedit /set {default} safeboot network
   • Close the Command Prompt and select Continue to restart your PC. It will boot into Safe Mode.

Once your computer boots into Safe Mode, you can perform various troubleshooting steps to identify and resolve software issues. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Check for Malware

1. Run Antivirus Software:
   • Use your installed antivirus program to run a full system scan. If you don’t have one, you can use free tools like Malwarebytes.
   • Download and install Malwarebytes, run a full scan, and remove any detected threats.

2. Update Drivers

1. Open Device Manager:
   • Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Update Outdated Drivers:
   • Look for any devices with a yellow triangle, indicating a problem.
   • Right-click the device and select Update driver.
   • Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.

3. Uninstall Recently Installed Software

1. Open Control Panel:
   • Press Windows + R, type control, and press Enter.
2. Uninstall Programs:
   • Go to Programs > Programs and Features.
   • Uninstall any recently installed software that might be causing issues.

4. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
   • Press Windows + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).
2. Run SFC:
   • In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter: sfc /scannow
   • Wait for the scan to complete and follow any prompts to fix issues.
3. Run DISM:
   • If SFC finds errors but cannot fix them, run the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) with the following command: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

5. Disable Startup Programs

1. Open Task Manager:
   • Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs:
   • Go to the Startup tab.
   • Right-click on any unnecessary programs and select Disable.

6. Check Event Viewer for Errors

1. Open Event Viewer:
   • Press Windows + X and select Event Viewer.
2. Look for Critical Errors:
   • In the Event Viewer, navigate to Windows Logs > System.
   • Look for any critical errors or warnings that might indicate the cause of the issue.

7. Use System Restore

1. Open System Restore:
   • Press Windows + R, type rstrui, and press Enter.
2. Choose a Restore Point:
   • Follow the prompts to choose a restore point before the issue started.
   • Complete the restore process and restart your computer.

8. Reinstall Problematic Software

1. Uninstall and Reinstall Software:
   • If a specific software is causing the issue, uninstall it from Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
   • Restart your computer and reinstall the software.

9. Update Windows

1. Check for Updates:
   • Open Settings (Windows + I), go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
   • Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

10. Check Disk for Errors

1. Run Check Disk Utility:
   • Open Command Prompt as Administrator (as described in step 4).
   • Type the following command and press Enter: chkdsk /f /r
   • You might need to restart your computer to complete the scan.

Additional Tips

• Backup Data: Always make sure your important data is backed up before performing major troubleshooting steps.
• Note Changes: Keep track of any changes you make during troubleshooting to easily revert if needed.

If you encounter specific issues or error messages while performing these steps, feel free to ask for more detailed assistance.

Microsoft Windows 11 24H2 has removed WordPad and suggests using alternatives like Notepad for .txt files and Microsoft Word for .rtf files.

To bring WordPad back on Windows 11 24H2, you can follow a workaround despite Microsoft’s decision to remove it. Here are the steps:

1. Copy WordPad Files from an Older Windows Version:
   • Before upgrading to Windows 11 24H2, locate the wordpad.exe and wordpadfilter.dll files in the Accessories folder. This is typically found at C:\Program Files\Windows NT\Accessories.
   • Copy these files to a secure location on your disk or an external drive.
2. Reinstall WordPad After Upgrade:
   • After upgrading to Windows 11 24H2, copy the saved wordpad.exe and wordpadfilter.dll files back to the Accessories folder on your upgraded system. This should allow you to run WordPad as before.
3. Alternative Approach:
   • Some users have created packages that can restore WordPad functionality. You might find these on trusted forums or tech blogs. However, ensure you download software only from reputable sources to avoid security risks.

While Microsoft has removed WordPad and suggests using alternatives like Notepad for .txt files and Microsoft Word for .rtf files, these steps can help maintain your preferred workflow without additional cost​ (BleepingComputer)​​ (Winaero)​​ (TweakTown)​​ (Berrall)​.

For more detailed instructions and to stay updated with the latest changes, you can check sites like Winaero and Bleeping Computer.

Situation: The user keeps receiving System Configuration Utility popups whenever they start their PC.

Here are some solutions to fix it:

Solution 1: Disable “Startup”

1. Open the System Configuration tool by typing msconfig in the Start menu search bar and pressing Enter.

1. In the System Configuration window, go to the “General” tab.

2. Select “Normal startup” if it’s not already selected.

3. Go to the “Startup” tab and ensure msconfig.exe is disabled.

4. Click “OK.” to save the settings.

5. Restart your computer.

Solution 2: Remove Startup from the Registry

1. In the Search bar type regedit

2. Click on Registry Editor.

3. Navigate to the following keys:

• HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE \ SOFTWARE \ Microsoft \ Shared Tools \ MSConfig \ startupreg
• HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE \ SOFTWARE \ Microsoft \ Shared Tools \ MSConfig \ startupfolder

4. Carefully remove the keys under these paths. This will remove items that are unchecked within MSConfig.

Warning: Editing the registry can have significant impacts on your system. Be sure to back up the registry before making any changes.

Solution 3: Uncheck Load Startup Item

Repeat Solution 1 and uncheck Load Startup Item

Please view this step by step video:

his may be caused by corruption in Windows Update. We can attempt to repair Windows update and install the KB manually if required.

To repair Windows Update:

1. Choose Start and type “cmd”. Open Command Prompt as admin.
2. Enter these lines one at a time:

net stop bits
net stop wuauserv
net stop appidsvc
net stop cryptsvc
ren %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 catroot2.old
net start bits
net start wuauserv
net start appidsvc
net start cryptsvc

3. Close the command prompt window and restart.

If that does not resolve your issue then you can install the KB manually.

1. Choose Start and type “winver”. Open winver.
2. Note down your Windows version information.
3. Go to https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/Home.aspx and search for the KB.
4. On the next page, locate the version for your machine. You most likely have an x64 installation. Use the winver information if needed to pin down which one you want.
5. Download the KB.
6. Run the installer.
7. Reboot.

Programs starting or running slowly

When is the last time you ran basic maintenance on your laptop? If you’re like most people, it’s been too long. Go to the Windows search bar or ask Cortana about “system maintenance.” You’ll be prompted to perform a set of tasks right away or schedule them for later.

OPTIMIZE HARD DRIVE

These include disc optimization tasks, which will free up space on your hard drive and store your files more efficiently. You can also try this list of ways to tune up your PC – it works for laptops as well as desktops.

UPDATE BROWSER

Also, try to pinpoint what programs are giving you issues. If you only experience lag when using a web browser, you may need to update the browser to the most recent version, or you could have too many cookies and temporary files stored on your laptop.

Perform a clean-up of these unnecessary files, then restart your computer.

DELETE TEMPORARY FILES

Finally, make sure your desktop is clear of the dozens of files and folders that accumulate there, because this uses precious memory and can really slow your laptop down.

Move them to the documents, photos, or videos folders, or delete them altogether. If these fixes don’t work, it’s time to take your laptop to a computer repair pro.

5. Laptop getting hot

All laptops get a little warm by design, and it’s advised that you don’t use them directly on your lap. If you are using a lap desk or other safe surface and you can still feel the heat, take a moment to cool down your laptop by turning it off, disconnecting the power cord, and performing a quick check.

• Allow 10 minutes for the laptop to cool
• Open the battery compartment
• If the battery is extremely hot, it may be time to replace it
• It could also be that the vents have become clogged so use a dusting cloth to wipe these off
• Make sure you are using your laptop on a hard, flat surface
• Consider investing in a cooling pad
• Avoid using it on soft bedding, a pillow, or anything that restricts airflow

If your laptop is still getting too warm for comfort after making these changes, it’s time to consult an expert for laptop computer repair.

6. Laptop becoming noisy

Similar to the heating problem, this could be a symptom of a clogged or dirty fan, blocked vents, or build up inside the computer. Go through the same process as for the heating issue above and see if you can pinpoint the source of the noise.

• Is it a fan? This would be an intermittent noise issue
• Is it the DVD-ROM drive? Eject the drive drawer and see if it stops
• Could it be the hard-drive itself? Clicking or cracking noises could mean your hard drive is failing

If you can’t diagnose the noise problem on your own, don’t hesitate to take it to a computer repair professional.

Except for the DVD-drive error, which can sometimes be solved by removing the DVD and using a DVD lens cleaning product, most of these problems will require professional diagnosis and repair.

7. WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity issues

Does your internet keep dropping while you’re using your laptop? Are you continually needing to find your home network or re-input the network key? Does your Bluetooth speaker not recognize your laptop?

Annoying internet or network issues can put a damper on your productivity, but they don’t always mean you have serious problems.

Before going in for laptop service and repair, try troubleshooting your wireless router and ensuring it’s not a problem with your network. Other devices shouldn’t be able to connect if it’s a wireless problem.

If other devices are working properly, use your laptop’s “identify and repair network problems” feature by asking Cortana or searching in the start bar on your laptop.

You’ll be guided through a repair sequence that may restart your computer’s wireless adapter or ask you to make changes to your settings. If this doesn’t fix your problem, you will be prompted to take your laptop in for repair.

8. Keyboard unresponsive

NUMBER LOCK

If your laptop doesn’t sense your typing, several things could be to blame. First, see if it’s only numbers that aren’t working because pressing the “num lock” key accidentally may keep you from using the keypad. Press it again to resume numerical input.

DIRT AND DUST

Next, see if dirt or dust is the problem. Use a can of compressed air to clean between the keys. You can also check individual “problem” keys by gently lifting the keys to pop the button cover off.

Not all keyboards have removable key covers, so don’t do this if your keyboard buttons aren’t designed this way. Check for debris and use a dry cotton swab or compressed air to remove dirt. Replace the key cover.

DAMAGED KEYS

If you have any visibly damaged keys or the cleaning remedies don’t work, see if your keyboard has been deactivated. Check your “keyboard status” through Cortana or your search bar.

It should tell you if your keyboard driver is connected and working. If the status shows problems, contact a computer repair professional near you.

Laptop charging issues can be caused by various factors, including hardware problems, software settings, or faulty components. Here are steps to troubleshoot and fix laptop charging problems:

1. Check the Basics

• Power Source: Ensure the power outlet is working. Try plugging another device into the same outlet.
• Power Cable and Adapter: Inspect the power cable and adapter for any visible damage. If possible, try using a different charger that is compatible with your laptop.

2. Verify Connections

• Secure Connections: Ensure the power adapter is securely plugged into the laptop and the wall outlet.
• Remove and Reconnect: Disconnect the charger from the laptop and the wall outlet, then reconnect them to ensure a good connection.

3. Check the Charging Port

• Inspect the Port: Check the laptop’s charging port for any debris or damage. Clean it gently with a soft brush or compressed air if needed.
• Wiggle the Connector: Gently wiggle the power connector while it’s plugged in. If the connection is loose, it might indicate a damaged charging port that needs repair.

4. Test with a Different Charger

• Use Another Charger: If you have access to another compatible charger, try using it to see if the issue is with the original charger.

5. Check Battery Health

• Battery Status: Check the battery status in your operating system.
  • Windows: Go to Settings > System > Battery to view the battery status.
  • macOS: Click the battery icon in the menu bar and select Battery Preferences.
• Battery Report (Windows): Generate a battery report to get detailed information about the battery health.
  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  2. Type powercfg /batteryreport and press Enter.
  3. Locate and open the generated battery report (usually saved in the user directory).

6. Perform a Power Reset

• Power Reset: Performing a power reset can help resolve charging issues.
  1. Turn off the laptop.
  2. Disconnect the charger and remove the battery (if removable).
  3. Press and hold the power button for 15-30 seconds to discharge any residual power.
  4. Reconnect the battery and charger, then turn on the laptop.

7. Update Drivers and BIOS

• Update Battery Drivers:
  1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand Batteries.
  3. Right-click Microsoft ACPI-Compliant Control Method Battery and select Update driver.
  4. Follow the prompts to update the driver.
• Update BIOS: An outdated BIOS can cause power management issues.
  • Visit the laptop manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest BIOS update. Follow the instructions carefully.

8. Check Power Settings

• Power Settings:
  1. Go to Control Panel > Power Options.
  2. Select the Balanced power plan or create a custom plan that optimizes battery usage.

9. Inspect and Replace the Battery

• Check for Swelling: Inspect the battery for any signs of swelling or damage. If the battery appears swollen, stop using it immediately and replace it.
• Replace the Battery: If the battery is old or faulty, consider replacing it with a new one. Make sure to purchase a compatible battery from a reputable source.

10. Test in Safe Mode

• Boot in Safe Mode: Sometimes software conflicts can cause charging issues. Booting in Safe Mode can help identify if this is the case.
  • Windows: Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter. Go to the Boot tab, check Safe boot, and restart your laptop.
  • macOS: Restart your Mac and hold the Shift key while it boots up.

11. Contact Support

• Manufacturer Support: If the issue persists, contact the laptop manufacturer’s support for further assistance. They can provide more specific troubleshooting steps or suggest repairs.

By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the charging issues with your laptop. If the problem remains unresolved, seeking professional help might be necessary.

Please view this step by step video:

Computer screen issues like flickering, black screens, or distorted displays can be caused by various hardware and software problems. Here are some steps to troubleshoot and fix these issues:

1. Check for Loose Connections

• External Monitors: Ensure that all cables connecting your monitor to your PC are securely plugged in.
• Laptop Screens: If you’re comfortable, you can check the internal cable connections by opening the laptop. Otherwise, seek professional help.

2. Update Graphics Drivers

• Update via Device Manager:
  1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand Display adapters, right-click your graphics card, and select Update driver.
  3. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
• Download from Manufacturer’s Website:
  • Visit the website of your graphics card manufacturer (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) to download the latest drivers.

3. Adjust Display Settings

• Screen Resolution and Refresh Rate:
  1. Right-click on the desktop and select Display settings.
  2. Scroll down to Advanced display settings.
  3. Ensure the resolution is set to the recommended level and the refresh rate is appropriate for your monitor.

4. Check for Software Conflicts

• Safe Mode: Booting into Safe Mode can help identify if a software conflict is causing the issue.
  1. Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. Go to the Boot tab and check Safe boot.
  3. Restart your computer. If the issue is resolved in Safe Mode, a third-party application might be the cause.
• Disable Hardware Acceleration: Some programs like web browsers or video players use hardware acceleration, which can cause screen issues.
  • In Chrome: Go to Settings > Advanced > System and toggle off Use hardware acceleration when available.

5. Perform a System Scan

• Scan for Malware: Malware can cause display issues. Use a reliable antivirus program to scan your system.
• System File Checker (SFC):
  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Wait for the scan to complete and follow any on-screen instructions.

6. Test with an External Monitor

• External Monitor Test:
  1. Connect your laptop or desktop to an external monitor.
  2. If the external monitor works fine, the issue might be with your original display or its connections.

7. Check for Overheating

• Overheating: Ensure your system is not overheating, as this can cause screen issues.
  • Clean out dust from vents and fans.
  • Use a cooling pad for laptops.
  • Monitor temperatures using software like HWMonitor or SpeedFan.

8. Reset Display Settings

• Reset Settings:
  1. Right-click on the desktop and select Display settings.
  2. Scroll down and click Advanced display settings.
  3. Click Display adapter properties for Display 1.
  4. Go to the Monitor tab and click Reset.

9. Update BIOS/UEFI

• BIOS/UEFI Update: An outdated BIOS/UEFI can cause hardware compatibility issues.
  • Visit the manufacturer’s website to download the latest BIOS/UEFI update.
  • Follow the provided instructions carefully to update.

10. Check for Physical Damage

• Physical Damage: Inspect the screen for any cracks or damage.
  • If you suspect hardware damage, it might be necessary to replace the screen or the graphics card.

11. Perform a System Restore

• System Restore:
  1. Press Win + S, type System Restore, and select Create a restore point.
  2. Click System Restore and follow the prompts to restore your system to a previous point where the issue was not present.

12. Seek Professional Help

• If none of the above solutions work, it might be time to seek professional help. A technician can diagnose and fix hardware-related issues.

By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the screen issues affecting your device.

Please view this step by step video:

Laptop overheating is a common issue that can affect performance and longevity. Here are some solutions to help fix and prevent your laptop from overheating:

1. Ensure Proper Ventilation

• Place on a Hard Surface: Use your laptop on a flat, hard surface to ensure proper airflow.
• Elevate the Laptop: Use a laptop stand or cooling pad to lift the laptop and improve airflow underneath.

2. Clean the Vents and Fans

• Regular Cleaning: Dust can accumulate in the vents and fans, blocking airflow.
  • Compressed Air: Use compressed air to blow out dust from the vents and fans.
  • Open the Laptop: If comfortable, open the laptop to clean the internal components. Ensure you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

3. Use a Cooling Pad

• Cooling Pad: An external cooling pad can help reduce the temperature by providing additional fans and improved airflow.

4. Check for Obstructed Vents

• Unblock Vents: Ensure vents are not blocked by objects like books, pillows, or your lap. Keep the area around the laptop clear.

5. Adjust Power Settings

• Power Management: Adjust your laptop’s power settings to reduce heat production.
  • Windows: Go to Control Panel > Power Options and choose a balanced or power saver plan.
  • Mac: Go to System Preferences > Energy Saver and adjust the settings.

6. Update Drivers and BIOS

• Update Drivers: Ensure all drivers, especially for the graphics card and chipset, are up to date.
  • Device Manager: Press Win + X and select Device Manager. Right-click on the devices and select Update driver.
  • Manufacturer’s Website: Visit the manufacturer’s website to download the latest drivers.
• Update BIOS: Check the manufacturer’s website for BIOS updates, which can improve system stability and thermal management.

7. Limit Resource-Intensive Processes

• Monitor CPU Usage: Use Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (Mac) to monitor CPU usage and close unnecessary programs.
  • Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. Go to the Processes tab to see which processes are consuming the most resources.
  • Activity Monitor: Press Cmd + Space, type Activity Monitor, and open it to check resource usage.

8. Improve Room Temperature

• Ambient Temperature: Ensure the room where you use your laptop is cool and well-ventilated.
• Use a Fan: A desk fan can help keep the area around your laptop cool.

9. Check for Malware

• Malware Scan: Malware can cause high CPU usage, leading to overheating.
  • Use a reliable antivirus program to scan for and remove malware.

10. Replace Thermal Paste

• Thermal Paste: Over time, the thermal paste between the CPU/GPU and the heatsink can dry out, reducing its effectiveness.
  • If comfortable, replace the thermal paste. Otherwise, seek professional help.

11. Modify Laptop Settings

• Reduce Performance Settings: Lower the maximum processor state in power settings to reduce heat.
  • Windows: Go to Control Panel > Power Options > Change plan settings > Change advanced power settings. Under Processor power management, reduce the Maximum processor state.
  • Mac: Use the Energy Saver preferences to reduce performance settings.

12. Use Software Solutions

• Fan Control Software: Use software to manually control fan speeds and monitor temperatures.
  • Windows: Programs like SpeedFan or HWMonitor.
  • Mac: Programs like Macs Fan Control.

13. Consider Professional Help

• Technician: If you’re not comfortable opening your laptop or the above solutions don’t work, consider taking it to a professional technician for cleaning and maintenance.

Implementing these solutions should help in reducing your laptop’s overheating issues and improve its overall performance and lifespan.

Battery draining quickly can be a frustrating issue. Here are several solutions to help fix this problem on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops:

General Tips

1. Reduce Screen Brightness
   • Lower your screen brightness to a comfortable level or enable adaptive brightness to automatically adjust based on ambient light.
2. Shorten Screen Timeout
   • Decrease the screen timeout setting to ensure your screen turns off quickly when not in use.
3. Disable Unnecessary Notifications
   • Turn off notifications for apps that you don’t need immediate updates from to save battery life.
4. Turn Off Location Services
   • Disable GPS and location services when not needed, or set them to be used only when necessary.
5. Update Software
   • Keep your operating system and apps up to date as updates often include battery optimizations and bug fixes.
6. Check Battery Usage
   • Go to battery settings to see which apps are consuming the most power and limit their usage or uninstall them if not necessary.

For Smartphones and Tablets

1. Enable Battery Saver Mode
   • Activate the built-in battery saver mode to extend battery life by reducing performance and limiting background data.
2. Close Background Apps
   • Close apps running in the background to prevent unnecessary battery drain.
3. Limit Background App Refresh
   • Disable or limit the background refresh for apps that don’t need to constantly update.
4. Turn Off Wireless Services When Not in Use
   • Turn off Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile data when not needed.
5. Disable Vibration
   • Turn off or reduce vibration for notifications and haptic feedback.
6. Reduce Animations
   • Turn off or reduce animations and visual effects in the settings.

For Laptops

1. Adjust Power Settings
   • Use power-saving modes like “Battery Saver” or “Power Saver” in your laptop’s power settings.
2. Unplug Unnecessary Peripherals
   • Disconnect external devices like USB drives, external hard drives, and other peripherals when not in use.
3. Manage Startup Programs
   • Disable unnecessary programs from starting up with your system, as they can run in the background and drain the battery.
4. Turn Off Keyboard Backlighting
   • Disable or reduce the brightness of keyboard backlighting.
5. Use Integrated Graphics
   • If your laptop has both integrated and dedicated graphics, use the integrated graphics for less demanding tasks to save power.
6. Keep Your Laptop Cool
   • Ensure proper ventilation to prevent overheating, as high temperatures can reduce battery efficiency.

Additional Tips

1. Replace the Battery
   • If your device is old, the battery might be degraded. Consider replacing the battery with a new one.
2. Factory Reset
   • As a last resort, performing a factory reset can help if the battery drain is due to software issues. Ensure you back up your data before doing this.
3. Seek Professional Help
   • If the problem persists, it might be a hardware issue. Contact customer support or visit a professional technician for further assistance.

Implementing these solutions should help improve your device’s battery life. Adjust the settings according to your usage patterns and needs for the best results.

The DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) error in Windows is typically related to driver issues, hardware incompatibility, or system file corruption.

Here are steps to troubleshoot and fix this issue:

1. Check and Update Drivers

• Update Drivers: Outdated or corrupt drivers can cause this error. Make sure all your drivers are up to date, especially for critical components like the graphics card, network adapter, and storage controllers.
  • Device Manager:
    1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
    2. Right-click on each device and select Update driver.
  • Manufacturer’s Website: Visit the website of your PC or hardware manufacturer to download the latest drivers.

2. Check for Windows Updates

• Update Windows: Ensure your Windows is up to date, as updates often include fixes for known issues.
  • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  • Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

3. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

• System File Checker: This tool scans for and repairs corrupted system files.
  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
     • Press Win + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).
  2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Wait for the scan to complete and follow any on-screen instructions.
• DISM: This tool repairs the Windows image.
  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  2. Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:
     • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
     • DISM /Online /Cleanup-ImageType sfc /scannow and press Enter /ScanHealth
     • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  3. Restart your computer after the process completes.

4. Check Disk for Errors

• CHKDSK: This utility checks for disk errors and fixes them.
  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  2. Type chkdsk /f /r and press Enter.
  3. Follow the prompts to schedule a scan on the next restart.
  4. Restart your computer to allow CHKDSK to run.

5. Check Hardware Compatibility and Connections

• Hardware Compatibility: Ensure all connected hardware is compatible with your system and Windows version.
• Check Connections: Make sure all internal and external hardware components are properly connected.

6. Disable Fast Startup

• Fast Startup: Sometimes, fast startup can cause issues.
  1. Go to Control Panel > Power Options.
  2. Click Choose what the power buttons do.
  3. Click Change settings that are currently unavailable.
  4. Uncheck Turn on fast startup.
  5. Click Save changes and restart your computer.

7. Update Firmware and BIOS

• Update Firmware: Check for firmware updates for your SSD or other hardware components.
• Update BIOS: Ensure your BIOS is up to date. Visit the manufacturer’s website for instructions and updates.

8. Perform a Clean Boot

• Clean Boot: This helps identify if a startup program is causing the issue.
  1. Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.
  3. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
  4. Disable all startup items.
  5. Close Task Manager and click OK in the System Configuration window.
  6. Restart your computer.

9. Reset Windows

• Reset Windows: If all else fails, consider resetting Windows to its default state.
  1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
  2. Under Reset this PC, click Get started.
  3. Follow the prompts to either keep your files or remove everything.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION error and prevent it from recurring. If the problem persists, it might be worth consulting a professional technician.

Pease view this step by step video: