Backing Up Ain't Hard To Do!

If there's one tip that I could ever pass on to our fellow computer users, it's to routinely back up your data. Heaven forbid, but there may come a time, when you least expect it, that your computer's hard drive will be damaged or fail. This can be especially devastating if any of your important files can no longer be accessed from the drive. Or worse, destroyed.

Data stored on our laptop hard drives are most critical, since they can be more expensive than desktop PC hard drives, and tricky to repair.

The first item that you'll need for backing up your data is some form of data storage. The amount of storage you'll need of course depends on how much data you're backing up.

For some, a recordable CD or DVD might be plenty. If your laptop or desktop PC doesn't have a recordable optical drive installed, you can easily use an external DVD burner. This should be enough if you're backing up your documents, address book, email, internet bookmarks, or other small projects.

For things like this, you should probably create a CD or DVD back-up disc once every week. I suggest doing so on a Friday evening, so you have complete peace of mind for the weekend.

You might have projects that you want to back up daily. Losing even a day's worth of work can be cumbersome, depending on what your project might be. Backing up your work to a new CD-R or DVD-R can get expensive, so in this case I recommend a portable USB flash drive. 1GB to 8GB should suffice, though larger capacities are available, should you need it. You'll not only have more storage space available on a thumb drive, but there are also security applications out there that will protect the data in case of theft.

If you have much more data that you'd like to insure an extra copy of, then you might want to invest in an external hard drive. An external hard drive is ideal for copying large media files (video or music collections), digital photo collections, or software downloads. A hard drive that's the same, if not double the capacity of your local hard drive is most recommended. As of the time of this writing, a 1TB (that's 1,000 gigabytes) external hard drive can easily be bought for under $80.

Off-site data storage services are also available. Depending on the service you sign up for (like Carbonite or Mozy), you'll be able to upload your data to their backup facility. This kind of service is useful in the event of a disaster that destroys all your local equipment. After all, if a fire or flood destroys your computer and the back-up drive sitting next to it, you're still out of luck.

Now that you have the storage, you'll need the tools to start creating the back-ups. A computer novice may make the mistake of simply storing their files on the external drive and call it a "back-up". But here's the rule: If you only have one copy, it's not a back-up! You'll need to create and synch multiple copies of your files to truly cover your bases.

Windows has some built-in back-up utilities, depending on which version you're using. You'll be able to create back-ups of files, settings, or your hard drive's entire contents.

Windows XP has its Backup Utility in the Start menu here:

Start -> All Programs -> Accessories -> System Tools -> Backup

In Windows Vista and the new Windows 7, go to the Backup and Restore Center from your Control Panel. From there, go into System and Maintenance and click on Backup your computer. From here, you'll have the option to use Automatic Backup, which will schedule a regular back-up of selected files. Complete PC Backup will back-up everything, including system files and your installed applications.

There are plenty of third-party software utilities as well; many of them available for free. Though most of the free ones will only create copies of files and synchronize your back-ups with your local data.

High-end back-up software (such as Acronis True Image or Norton Ghost) will create complete disk images of your local drive. A disk image is essentially an exact copy of everything on a hard drive contained in one massive file.

This is why I recommended an external drive that's equal or greater than your local drive, as you may want to create multiple disk images. You can then use these images to perfectly recreate your system onto a new hard drive. This is a fantastic ability for not only replacing damaged drives, but also for simple hard drive upgrades.


In the unfortunate event that your hard drive does fail, Triangle Laptops can help you recover your lost data. As part of our laptop repair service, we perform an extensive check on your failed hard drive and take as many steps necessary to recover your important files.

For more information about laptop hard drive data recovery, take a look at our laptop repair service page. You can also send us your questions via email or call toll-free 1-877-456-7869.

Coolest PC Case Mods

Computers are like sports cars for geeks. It's the meter by which we judge each other and establish our geeky status.

It's not always about who has the hottest technical specifications... Many times, it's about personal style! If you can't have the most powerful computer, it's just as good to have the most unique. Hardcore computer geeks with an artistic talent (and a lot of time on their hands) turn their computers into fun projects. Think of it as Pimp My Ride, but for PCs.

The key to an impressive PC case mod is—as the saying goes—thinking outside the box. In order to fit all the necessary hardware into various unorthodox shapes, most PC case modders use laptop parts, due to their compact size. The most common parts used are laptop optical drives and laptop motherboards.

Here are some examples of the craziest PC mods that we've found across the web! Some of the engineers that created them were also kind enough to supply detailed instructions for how to create your own!


Hamster PC


We all like to joke that our computers are powered by a hamster wheel. Will Knier from Raleigh, NC decided to bring that vision to life! He converted the top sections of a full-sized PC tower into an actual home for his hamster. The living compartment of the PC case is split into two rooms, connected by PVC pipe, and are visible by translucent walls.


NES PC


One popular case mod converts an old 8-bit Nintendo Entertainment System into a slick retro PC design. The NES's cartridge loading bay is an ideal spot to install the optical drive, often using a laptop CD-ROM drive. The power and reset buttons can easily be used for their PC tower counterparts.


Similar PC case mods have been produced using the bodies of other classic video game consoles, such as the Commodore 64, Super NES, and even the portable-sized Nintendo Game Boy.


Victorian All-in-One PC


This case mod (created by Jake von Slatt) is made with state of the art hardware, but given a classy, antiquated look. It's also been nicknamed the "Steampunk PC", since it harkens to the type of science fiction that places modern technology in old-world eras.

On the inside, the creator of the Steampunk PC mounted the system hardware onto the back of the 19in LCD monitor. The DVD-ROM drive is installed inside the base, hidden on one side. As icing to this nerd-tastic cake, Jake added matching custom-made keyboard and mouse.


Batman Begins Batmobile PC


There are few pop culture icons that rank cooler than Batman. He has the neatest gadgets, hottest car, and can master any puzzle with his sharp detective mind. A veritable geek god.

In homage to the caped crusader, a PC case modder known only as "batfan06" assembled an impressive case mod in the form of the tumbler Batmobile from the recent Batman Begins film. What's especially cool about this case mod is that the case itself is a simple remote-controlled Batmobile toy found at Walmart!

Mr. batfan06 took great care to make all the ports, drives, and vents easily accessible, yet tactically hidden from casual view. LED lights were added to make the Batmobile PC quite the impressive sight in the dark. At first glance, you wouldn't expect it to be a fully-functional desktop PC; it would just look like a really sweet Batmobile model.


Microwave PC


This may be the most clever way to disguise your computer as a common household appliance. The front window of the microwave has been refitted with a flat-panel LCD monitor. By opening the microwave's door, you'll be able to access the system hardware, housed inside the food compartment. The control panel on the side has been revamped with PC controls and switches, while maintaining the style of a traditional microwave oven. Oddly, the optical drive is mounted on the top of the microwave, where discs are fed in vertically, though it doesn't detract much from the overall coolness factor.


For any questions or suggestions about PC hardware, please contact us via email or by calling 1-800-620-6886. We offer a wide variety of replacement laptop parts that you may need for your own custom PC case mod, as well as laptop repair services (in the event of a modding mishap).

Back-To-School Checklist for Laptops

The new school year is upon us! With the fall semester just about to start, it's important to make sure that you or your student are well equipped for handling all their schoolwork.

To make sure you have everything you need to be prepared, we've put together a list of tips to maximize your gear:


NETBOOKS

Netbooks are the hottest new tool for portable computing. They're ideal for students because of their petite, travel-friendly size, economic prices, and easy mobile web access. While they're not as powerful as most desktop or laptop computers, they pack just enough power to dedicate to schoolwork and basic web-based communication.

Whichever model of netbook you plan to buy, you'll need to make sure that you have all the right netbook accessories. Using a slim, external DVD drive is essential for installing all the necessary software that you or your student may need for school projects. Netbooks lack any kind of optical disc drive, so it's good idea if you need to read or backup any data to a CD or DVD. You may also want to pick up a spare netbook AC adapter, to make sure that your netbook can be fully charged no matter where you go.


LAPTOP BATTERIES
& AC ADAPTERS

Notebook PCs need love just as much as netbooks. If you're frequently on the move, keep a spare laptop battery handy to double your mobile computer work time. And just in case of an emergency, pack a spare laptop AC adapter to make sure that you're laptop is powered up and your work time goes on, uninterrupted.


SECURITY CABLES

Keeping your laptop or netbook secure is crucial to keep from falling into the hands of thieves. Most laptops and netbooks come equipped with slots to connect a Kensington notebook security cable lock. These laptop cable locks will keep your notebook or netbook firmly tethered so that they don't sprout wings and fly away. Laptops are expensive enough to replace, but imagine losing any irreplaceable schoolwork that might be stored inside!


BACK-UP!

Hardware failure, viruses, theft... No matter how you lose your data, it could cost you hours, days, or even weeks worth of work! Back up your data routinely; preferably every day. You can use a USB thumb drive (2GB or more) or an external DVD burner for backing up smaller files or projects, or you can use a larger external hard drive for larger tasks. Remember, though, it's only a back-up if you have more than one copy!


WIRELESS CARDS

Public WiFi access is increasing, with free wireless web access becoming available in most restaurants and other local businesses. However, not every laptop comes with wireless hardware built in. If your laptop doesn't have a laptop wireless card, you should definitely get one. With wireless accessibility, your laptop can truly be mobile, connecting to local wireless networks and WiFi hotspots.

Staying connected is becoming more and more critical for school to keep in touch with teachers, fellow students, and other online resources.


DOCKING STATIONS

If you want to get the most out of your laptop, you can use a laptop port replicator or docking station to expand the functionality of the laptop while working at home.

A laptop itself is excellent for mobile computing, but when you return home to your desk, it's nice to be able to view your work on a larger monitor and hear music through full-sized speakers. A port replicator can get your laptop working like a desktop, allowing it to connect to just about any computer accessory.


TRAVEL BAGS

While carrying around your laptop, you want to make sure that it has as much protection as possible. Most people use laptop travel bags (which are great), but they stand out like a beacon through the eyes of thieves. Your best bet is to use a backpack to blend in with the crowd, but make sure it has extra padding to protect your laptop. Many new backpacks are designed with special compartments for storing laptops or netbooks, so picking up one of those is definitely recommended.


GAMING

Naturally you'll want to have some fun with your laptop or netbook. Any computer you own for the purpose of school or business should be considered a tool first and a toy well below that. But there's always that rule of all work and no play...

To provide some extra comfort in your game time, we offer the PlayStation-to-PC USB adapter. This little gadget will let you connect any PSone or PS2 controller or accessory to your PC. It's compatible with any desktop, laptop, or notebook computer with an available USB 2.0 port. It's great for any joystick-enabled PC games or ports of classic games found on download services like Steam.


With all this kit on hand, you should be ready to make the grade! Of course, if you're ever in need of repair or upgrade service for your netbook or notebook PC, Triangle Laptops offers it's fantastic laptop repair service in order to keep your computer up and running! For more information, please visit the Triangle Laptops homepage or call 1-919-620-6886.

Laptop DC Power Jack Repair

A laptop DC power jack endures a great deal of wear and tear during the life of the laptop. With frequent plugging and unplugging, as well as the motions of every day use, all that shimmying will take its toll on the laptop's DC jack. Eventually, the metal connectors that hold the laptop DC jack in place will break loose.

When the laptop DC power jack becomes temperamental, your laptop's power can cut off at any time. This can be annoying, but more so if you suddenly lose power after completing a lot of unsaved work that can be lost. Losing external power can also drain your laptop's battery, if you're not paying attention.

Repairing your laptop DC power jack is a pretty tricky task. It involves taking your laptop completely apart and working directly with the laptop's motherboard. It is possible to do the laptop repair yourself, if you'd like to save some money on laptop repair service and fancy yourself as a skilled electronics technician.

For first-timers, here are some quick tips to get you started:

The first thing to do is to troubleshoot to make absolutely sure that it's not actually the AC adapter that's causing your power outages. Many laptop models have an indicator light to show when the laptop is using external power. If the light is on, then the AC adapter is working properly.


If you don't have an indicator light (or even if you want to make extra sure) you can connect a voltmeter to the AC adapter in order to test it. Plug the power cord into a wall outlet. Then carefully connect one lead from the voltmeter to the inside of the DC plug and one to the outside of the plug. If the voltmeter shows a power connection (usually between 14-19volts), then the AC adapter is in the clear and you can now set your sights on the laptop DC power jack.

When you begin to work on your laptop, the first thing you need to do is make sure that the laptop's AC adapter is unplugged and the laptop battery is removed. The last thing you want to do is give yourself a nasty shock!

Use a large working space. Clear off a large, open table to work on so that you can spread your laptop's parts out. Also, keep a few small cups or bowls near by to hold all the screws and other tiny parts that you may need to remove.


Use a fine soldering tip for your soldering gun. Computer connections are very close together on a motherboard. If the hot iron burns the motherboard or if any stray solder accidentally touches other circuits, the motherboard could be fried. You'll need a very fine tip and a steady hand to perform like a surgeon around all those components.

Apply solder to all connector pins. The break in the DC jack's connections may not be completely visible and it may be more than one connector that's damaged. To insure that all potentially damaged connector pins are solid, reinforce all of them while avoiding accidentally touching surrounding components.

As you can see, repairing the laptop power jack is very risky. One wrong move with the soldering gun and your laptop is toast. For this reason, it's usually recommended that you have your laptop serviced by experienced professionals.

Triangle Laptops is happy to offer our own laptop repair expertise through our new laptop repair service. Our staff has years of hands-on experience with careful computer repair. We're especially knowledgeable in more delicate repairs, like laptop DC power jack repair and replacement.

If you have any questions about our laptop repair service or request service for your laptop, please contact Triangle Laptops by email or call 919-620-6886.

Laptop Repair Service By Triangle Laptops

If your laptop is no longer under warranty, getting laptop repair can get expensive. If you try to get your laptop serviced by a big-name retailer like Best Buy, they're more likely to try to sell you unnecessary accessories (or a whole new laptop). They're more interested in big sales, not servicing the customer.

Triangle Laptops understands that we're in a time where we need to get the most out of the computer hardware that we have. So in addition to being a top source of laptop replacement parts and accessories, Triangle Laptops now offers nationwide professional laptop repair services!

Customers in need of laptop repair can contact Triangle Laptops with their requests. Our professional, experienced staff is fully capable of servicing the top name brand laptops, including Dell, HP, IBM, Toshiba, and more! Better still, each laptop repair service comes with free return shipping!

Among our list of laptop repair services:

Laptop Hard Drive Data Recovery Laptop Hard Drive Replacement Virus Removal & Repair Laptop Operating System Installation

Laptop LCD Replacement Laptop DC Jack Replacement Laptop Keyboard Replacement Laptop Memory Upgrades

If your laptop is running slowly or is behaving strangely, Triangle Laptops can perform a thorough system diagnostic in order to track down the problem and offer the best solutions. Along with repair, we also help with system upgrades and optimization to give your laptop an extra turbo-boost.

Triangle Laptops is based in the Triangle Area of North Carolina. To better serve local businesses and residents of the Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, Hillsborough, and RTP areas, Triangle Laptops offers special savings on local drop-off and pick-up laptop repair services our facilities.

All customers are welcome to provide their own hardware, software, and back-up data for the laptop service, though some parts may be available through Triangle Laptops directly. Customers are encouraged to check availability of all laptop parts in order to save themselves time and money on their laptop repairs.

To begin maximizing the power of your laptop, please check out our laptop repair service page. For laptop service requests or questions, please email Triangle Laptops or call 919-620-6886.