How to Delete Content from a RW CD/DVD

Sunday, 08 January 2012 09:45 Last Updated on Sunday, 08 January 2012 09:46

This is a problem with Windows XP's built-in CD/DVD writer. With Windows XP you can't delete/remove an individual file or folder from a Re-Writeable (RW) CD or DVD.

This is what Microsoft have to say on the subject:

This error message can occur because individual files cannot be deleted from the CD-RW. You cannot use the CD disc recording feature of Windows XP for random-access storage while you are writing to disc.
To work around this problem, use a third-party program that supports this feature or delete the CD-RW before you write to the disc. For more information, click the following article numbers to view the articles in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:
303008 An error message may be displayed when you delete a file or folder on a CD-RW media
306641 How to erase files from a CD-RW disc in Windows XP

Here are some third-party programs that will do what you want:

ImgBurn. This is free! It's what I have on my computer. The download link is not obvious when you get to the site. Here is the link: download here.
Nero. If I was buying a program, this is the one I'd buy. About 50 Euro. This is easier to use than ImgBurn.
Roxio. This is an alternative paid for program that is very popular. About $100.

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How to change the Joomla! Database Password

Friday, 30 December 2011 15:30 Last Updated on Friday, 30 December 2011 15:44

Changing the password in a Joomla! database involves 2 steps and it is normally the second step that causes problems.

Step 1

Change the password for the MySql database in your host package. This will vary from system to system but can normally be achieved via phpmyadmin.

Step 2

After chainging the password on the database itself you will no longer be able to access the 'back end' of your Joomla! Content Management System! This is because you need to edit the configuration file to have the new password.

This file is in the root directory of your site and is called configuration.php. Download this file and edit in notepad (I prefer notepad++) and search for " var $password". This will show the existing password. Now replace the password, save the file and upload. You may need to clear your browser's cache to remove the error from your previous failed attempt.

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Java Does Not Run On Android Devices

Friday, 23 December 2011 19:56 Last Updated on Friday, 23 December 2011 20:03

I have recently had cause to investigate running Java apps on a Samsung Galaxy Tab and have discovered that they don't run. If you are planning on buying an Android device (such as the Galaxy tab) then please be aware of this.

Don't confuse Java with JavaScript. JavaScript does work (there is an option in setting to turn this on). Java applications Do Not.

I have seen various ways that claim to get around this but have not tried them and therefore cannot recommend them.

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What Software Should You Install on Your New Computer First?

Monday, 19 December 2011 17:13 Last Updated on Wednesday, 18 January 2012 15:17

If you have just received a new computer (maybe for Christmas?!) then you will be keen to start using it. Before you do, here are a few programs that I recommend that you install first.

1. Anti-Virus / Security Software.

No surprises here! As soon as your PC is connected to the Internet the bad guys can see you and if you're not protected they can infect your computer. I recommend Comodo Internet Security and offer that at 25% off the retail price (30 Euro).
If you don't want to pay for your security then you should install Microsoft Security Essentials.

2. Computer Repair / Maintenance Software

To keep your computer at its best then I recommend the FREE Advanced System Care. This has all you need to maintain your computer and many other useful tools.

3. Google Chrome - Internet Browser

Your computer will come with Internet Explorer 9 but I recommend that you have 2 browsers (in case one stops working - it does happen). My preferred browser is Chrome. It is quicker and safer than IE.

4. Secure Password Manager

Don't allow your browser to remember passwords (if it asks - just say NO!). They are not encrypted. Instead, use a Secure Password Manager. I recommend and use LastPass (FREE).

What Else Should I Do When I Get a New Computer?

Uninstall Unnecessary / Trial Software

Your computer will have come with quite a bit of software pre-installed. This includes a trial version of antivirus software (typically Norton) which will expire and then need to be paid for. Uninstall this and then install either Comodo or Security Essentials. Likewise, uninstall anything else that you don't need. You can use the uninstall tool in Advanced System Care to help with this.

Create Recovery Disks or System Backup

Many computers will 'nag' you to create recovery DVDs or to backup your system. It is tempting to ignore this or leave it until later. Don't! This could save you a lot of heartache and expense.
All you need is a couple of blank DVDs, follow the simple instructions and you'll be done in 15 minutes. With this backup you can restore your PC to how it was when you bought it. This is sometimes the only way to fix it when it goes wrong. It won't restore your data so make sure you keep copies!

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Can You Spot a Fake Site? Take The Quiz!

Friday, 16 December 2011 10:24 Last Updated on Friday, 16 December 2011 10:56

Fake websites (or phishing sites) are designed to look like the real thing and fool us into giving them our login names, passwords and other personal information. But, how good are you at spotting the bad sites? If you've been following my advice you will have learned a few tricks (such as not clicking links in emails).

Click here to take a quiz from OpenDNS and see how good you are! There are 14 sites and when it is finished the ones you got wrong will have a 'X' on them. They also explain how you can tell the fake sites.

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