Monday, February 28, 2022

Upgrade your Windows 10 PC to Windows 11 NOW!

No need to wait for the Windows Update to come along... You can download and install Windows 11 RIGHT NOW!

All you have to do is use Microsoft's Windows 11 Installation Assistant, and you can upgrade your computer today!

You need to make sure your system is compatible and meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 11. You can check your computer's compatibility by using Microsoft's PC Health Check application!

Windows 11 System Requirements:

  • Processor 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC).
  • RAM Minimum of 4 gigabyte (GB).
  • Storage: 64 GB or larger storage device.
  • System firmware UEFI, Secure Boot capable. Check here for information on how your PC might be able to meet this requirement.
  • TPM Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0. Check here for instructions on how your PC might be enabled to meet this requirement.
  • Graphics card Compatible with DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver.
  • Display High definition (720p) display that is greater than 9” diagonally, 8 bits per color channel.

Monday, February 21, 2022

How to Dispose of Batteries

How to Dispose of Batteries

Batteries power a variety of portable devices. Everything from cordless phones and laptops to cars and toys use battery power. Eventually, a battery stops powering a device or fails to charge. That means it’s time to replace it!
Knowing how to dispose of batteries properly helps protect the environment. Whether they're rechargeable AA batteries or single-use alkaline batteries, learn safe disposal. This guide offers tips on battery disposal and battery recycling.

Single-Use vs. Rechargeable Batteries

  • There are two basic types of batteries in use: rechargeable and single-use or disposable ones.
  • Rechargeable batteries can be charged many times before they're replaced. They're found in cordless phones, smartphones, and digital cameras. Power tools and similar devices that drain energy quickly use them too.
  • Single-use batteries are found in alarm clocks, remotes, and other gadgets. They're designed to be used as long as the cell makes electricity.

Can Batteries Be Thrown Out?

  • Batteries contain chemicals and metals that produce a reaction to generate electrical energy. While the recycling of batteries is encouraged to protect the environment, you can throw out some types. Common household alkaline batteries are considered non-hazardous. You may toss out alkaline batteries with ordinary trash.
  • Button cell batteries used in items like remote car starters and watches contain silver and mercury. They must be recycled. In California, all household batteries are categorized as hazardous waste. Batteries must be brought to a household hazardous waste disposal facility. Another option is recycling at an authorized recycling facility in the state.

How to Dispose of Alkaline Batteries

  • Alkaline batteries include AA, AAA, 9 volt and D cells. Small batteries may run remote controls or flashlights. Larger batteries power smoke detectors, clocks and wireless consumer devices. Even when the cells no longer run devices, the batteries can still produce current. They can be hazardous if discarded improperly. Take these precautions before throwing them out:
  • Collect used household batteries in a container. A cardboard box or plastic tub is a safe option.
  • Prevent any fire risk by taping 9-volt battery terminals before tossing.

How to Dispose of Rechargeable Batteries

  • The types of rechargeable batteries in use include lithium-ion and nickel-cadmium. Other types are nickel-metal hydride, nickel-zinc, and small sealed lead batteries. The toxic metals that generate energy in these batteries can hurt the environment if discarded incorrectly.
  • Rechargeable 9-volt batteries, AA and AAA batteries, and D cells for household use look like alkaline batteries. The difference is they fit compatible plug-in chargers. Rechargeable batteries are recycled. Look for the battery recycling seals on rechargeable batteries.

Tip: Remove batteries from broken cordless phones, smartphones, and laptops. They'll be ready whether you give away, throw away or recycle the device.


Where to Recycle Batteries

Recycling companies dispose of the components of rechargeable batteries responsibly and properly. The metals and chemicals don’t end up in streams and landfills. Here are some options for recycling:

  • Call2Recycle, is a nonprofit battery recycling program. Rechargeable batteries can be dropped off in Call2Recycle bins at partnered store locations. Any rechargeable battery that weighs up to 11 pounds and is under 300-watt hours is accepted. There's no charge for recycling.
  • Many local solid waste districts host collection events for residents to drop off batteries.
  • Some battery manufacturers and recycling facilities have mail-in programs. Before mailing batteries, be sure to follow postal shipping precautions.
  • Most auto care retailers accept car batteries for recycling.

Common types of recyclable batteries:

  • Lithium-Ion (L-Ion) battery: These batteries are often used in personal electronics such as smartphones. They also run laptop computers, tablets and cordless power tools.
  • Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd) Batteries: These rechargeable cells are used in power tools and communication devices. They're for devices that require high current draw but aren't in constant use.
  • Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery: These rechargable batteries come in AA, AAA, 9 volt and D cells. They're used in digital cameras and other devices that drain power quickly.
  • Small Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) Battery: These rechargeable batteries are often used in large items like motor vehicles and lawn mowers. They're also power medical devices and telecommunications.

Practice the proper disposal of used batteries. Knowing how to correctly discard household and rechargeable batteries helps the environment!!


Wednesday, February 16, 2022

Mac Battery/Power Management System Calibration

Calibrating The Battery/Power Management System of a Mac Is Easy To Do!

On a new Apple computer, or after a new battery is installed...

Step 1 – Charge The Battery To 100%

  • Shut down the computer and then connect the power adapter.
  • Keep the computer plugged in until the light on the power connector turns green indicating a 100% charge.

Step 2 – Charge Two More Hours

  • After the battery is 100% charged, keep the power adapter plugged into the computer for an additional 2+ hours. 
  • The computer can be powered up and used during this time.

Step 3 – Temporarily Change the Energy Saver Settings

  • If the computer is off, you'll need to turn it on.
  • In OS X System Preferences click on the Energy Saver preferences.
  • In the Energy Saver / Battery preferences:
    • Set the "Turn display off after:" slider to "Never"
  • Various Mac models may have two sliders for "computer sleep" and "display sleep". If you have two sliders, simply slide both to the right to set them to "Never"
    • UNCHECK "Put hard disks to sleep when possible"
    • UNCHECK "Slightly dim the display while on battery power"
      • Note: The location/existence of certain settings may shift or vary depending on your computer model or OS version.
  • In the Energy Saver / Power Adapter preferences:
    • Set the "Turn display off after:" slider to "Never"
    • Various Mac models may have two sliders for "computer sleep" and "display sleep". If you have two sliders, simply slide both to the right to set them to "Never"
    • CHECK "Prevent computer from sleeping automatically when the display is off"
    • Note: this setting may or may not be available depending on your model or OS version.
    • UNCHECK "Put hard disks to sleep when possible"
      • Note: The location/existence of certain settings may shift or vary depending on your computer model or OS version.

Step 5 – Unplug And Drain The Battery

  • Unplug the power adapter.
  • Leave the computer on until it automatically shuts down.
  • You can use the computer during this step, but don't put the computer through heavy use to deplete the battery faster. Steady, even usage is better for power system calibration.

Step 6 – Leave It Off And Unplugged

  • After the computer has automatically shut down, leave it shut down for at least 5 hours or overnight. 
  • This will ensure the battery is completely drained of energy.

Step 7 – Charge To 100% Again

  • Plug the computer back in until the battery is 100% charged.
  • While plugged in, the computer can be used.
  • This is also a good time to go back and select your desired Energy Saver preferences.

AND THAT'S IT!

After this essential calibration, the new battery will be able to achieve its fullest charge and reach its full lifespan, and the system will display an accurate battery level. You can also reuse these steps to recalibrate the power management system every few months if desired.