The Future with Windows 11 Copilot

 

What is Windows 11 Copilot?

Copilot, it’s your companion in the digital space. Integrated directly into Windows 11, Copilot can be accessed from the taskbar or with a simple press of the Windows logo key + C. For those with the latest hardware, This dedicated Copilot  brings this intelligent assistant to life with a single tap.

Windows 11 is taking a giant leap into the future of computing with the introduction of Copilot, an AI-powered assistant designed to enhance your productivity and creativity. 

With Copilot, you can effortlessly navigate through your tasks, find inspiration, and get answers from across the web—all within the comfort of your desktop environment.

Features at Your Fingertips:

Whether you’re starting a new project or looking for a spark of inspiration, Copilot’s AI-powered features provide relevant answers and generate images from your ideas.

Efficiency Redefined:

 Adjust your PC settings, organize windows with Snap Assist, or dive into your creative apps—Copilot streamlines your workflow, saving you time and effort.

AI-Powered Tools:

Windows 11 comes packed with AI-driven applications like Paint and Photos, offering advanced editing capabilities. The Snipping Tool now includes AI features that allow you to copy and edit text from screenshots with ease.

How to Enable Windows 11 Copilot

Enabling Copilot is straightforward. It’s turned on by default, represented by an icon on the taskbar. If it’s not visible, simply head to the ‘Settings’ app, navigate to ‘Personalization’, select ‘Taskbar’, and turn on the Copilot toggle switch.

Using Copilot in Your Daily Workflow

Launch Copilot by clicking its icon on the taskbar or using the shortcut. It appears as a sidebar, running alongside your open app windows. Choose from three conversion modes—More Creative, More Precise, or More Balanced—to tailor Copilot’s output to your needs.

Windows 11 Copilot is revolutionizing the way we interact with our PCs. It’s not just about getting things done; it’s about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. As we embrace this new era of AI integration, the future looks brighter and more efficient than ever.

Unleashing Creativity with Canva Completely Free

 

Canva has revolutionized the way we think about design by making it accessible to everyone, regardless of their experience level. With its user-friendly interface and vast library of templates, Canva empowers users to create stunning visuals for various purposes, from social media graphics to professional presentations.

What is Canva?

Canva is an online platform that simplifies graphic design for users around the world. It offers a drag-and-drop interface and provides access to over a million photographs, graphics, and fonts. It is used by non-designers as well as professionals. The tool can be used for both web and print media design and graphics.

Key Features are

Templates: Canva provides a multitude of templates for almost any design need, from Instagram posts to business cards.

Photo Editing: With Canva’s photo editor, you can apply filters, adjust brightness, and more to enhance your images.

Drag-and-Drop: The intuitive drag-and-drop feature makes it easy to design without any prior experience.

Collaboration: Canva allows you to collaborate with others, making it perfect for team projects1.

How to Get Started

Sign Up: Create a Canva account at Canva.com.

Choose a Design: Select a template or start from scratch.

Customize: Add your own images or choose from Canva’s library. Then, customize the text and colours to your liking.

Download or Share: Once your design is complete, download it or share it directly from Canva.

Canva for Education and Business

Canva isn’t just for individual creators. It’s also a powerful tool for educators and businesses. With Canva for Education, teachers and students can create and collaborate visually in the classroom1. Canva for Teams, on the other hand, is designed for businesses of all sizes to foster teamwork and brand consistency1.

Waze: The Community Navigation App For You

Waze: The Community Navigation App

In a world where time is paramount , Waze stands out as a beacon for drivers everywhere. This community-driven GPS navigation app doesn't just get you from point A to B; it transforms your driving experience with real-time updates and a host of user-friendly features.

The History of Waze

Waze began as a project called Free  Map Israel in 2008, with the goal of creating a community-based map using crowd sourced information. Acquired by Google in 2013, Waze has since become a global phenomenon, helping drivers navigate with ease and efficiency.

Crowdsourcing: The Heart of Waze

What sets Waze apart is its reliance on real-time data from users. Every time you use Waze, you're contributing to a vast pool of information, from traffic jams to road closures. This crowdsourced approach ensures that Waze offers the most current and accurate navigation guidance possible.

Navigating with Waze

Waze's primary function is city driving, where it excels with detailed maps and turn-by-turn voice navigation. While the app requires an internet connection for real-time features, it also allows for offline map downloads for uninterrupted navigation.

Features Of Waze 

Real-Time Traffic Updates, Waze provides up-to-the-minute information on traffic conditions, ensuring you can avoid delays and reach your destination faster.

Waze Carpool, a feature that makes commuting more social and economical by connecting you with other Wazers heading in the same direction.

Customizable Routes, Whether you want to avoid tolls or find the cheapest petrol stations, Waze offers a variety of options to tailor your journey to your preferences.

What's Next For  Waze

As Waze continues to innovate, it introduces features like contactless payments and roadside assistance, making it more than just a navigation app. It's a travel companion that looks out for you every mile of the way.

 I have been using this app for years and years. Now all my family use it and its saved us so much time and petrol not being stuck in Traffic jams its a god send and completely free!

Waze is more than an app; it's a community of drivers working together to make every journey smoother and more enjoyable. With its great design and commitment to real-time data, Waze isn't just keeping up with the times it's driving ahead of them.

Outlook for Windows App Now Free

 

In an unprecedented move, Microsoft has announced that  Outlook for Windows will be available for free. This marks a significant shift in Microsoft's strategy, aiming to integrate and streamline the user experience across its Windows platform.

Also Outlook for Windows is set to replace the Mail and Calendar apps on Windows 11 devices. With a modern and simplified design, it promises to enhance productivity and connectivity. 

Everyone can look forward to a seamless transition, with the ability to switch to the new Outlook from a toggle in the existing Mail and Calendar application.

Why Make the Switch?

Well I  have always loved outlook since its inception a long time ago , I did try other email apps but unfortunately they did  not live up to  my Microsoft  Outlook experience.

The new Outlook for Windows isn't just about a fresh look; it's about bringing together all your email  communication needs under one roof.

Manage all your email accounts:

including Gmail and Yahoo!, in one place no switching all the time.

Enhanced Scheduling:

 Share your availability with a click and track important events effortlessly.

Advanced Security:

 Benefit from Microsoft's robust security measures to protect against phishing and scams.

Microsoft 365 Integration:

 Access Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneDrive directly within Outlook.

Personalization:

 Customize your calendar and track your packages with new package tracking features.

No Subscription Required but ads are included  sadly.

This is  Microsoft's vision of making essential productivity tools more accessible to everyone.

The integration of Outlook into Windows 11 for free is a game-changer for personal and professional communication. With Microsoft leading the charge, the future of Email looks brighter than ever.

Exploring the Windows 11 Sandbox: A Safe Space for Testing

 

 Sandbox is a lightweight, temporary desktop environment for safely running applications in isolation, ensuring that the main system remains untouched and secure.

Sandbox has been updated for users who are require to do experimentation of apps and websites before publishing them to thier current infrastructure 

What Does Windows 11 Sandbox Work?

Windows 11 Sandbox is essentially a Virtual Machine that is created on-demand using the Microsoft Hyper-V hypervisor. It utilizes the same image of the operating system that is currently on the computer, but it’s a custom, lightweight environment optimized for performance and security.

Key Features

Isolation: The Sandbox runs separately from the host machine, meaning any software installed inside the Sandbox doesn’t affect the main system.

Temporary: Once the Sandbox is closed, all software, files, and state are deleted, providing a fresh instance every time it’s opened.

Secure: It relies on hardware-based virtualization for kernel isolation, which is crucial for maintaining a secure environment.

Efficient: The Sandbox is designed to be efficient, using smart memory management and virtual GPU to ensure smooth performance.

Setting Up Windows 11 Sandbox

To get started with Windows 11 Sandbox, your device needs to meet certain prerequisites, such as having Windows 11 Pro or higher, virtualization capabilities enabled in BIOS, and sufficient memory and storage.

The setup process involves enabling virtualization at the hardware level and turning on the Windows Sandbox feature through the Windows Features dialog or the Settings app

After Following  Next Screens , reboot  your Computer.

The Windows 11 Sandbox is now installed ready for testing.

Before installing new software on your main system,  you can now test in the Sandbox to ensure it’s safe and doesn’t contain malware.

f you’re unsure about a website’s credibility, you can access it within the Sandbox to prevent any potential harm to your system.

Developers can use the Sandbox to test their applications or scripts in a controlled and safe environment.

Windows 11 Sandbox is a powerful tool that offers peace of mind , with its robust security features and ease of use, it’s an essential feature for anyone looking to maintain a secure and stable Windows environment.

Unleashing Creativity with NVIDIA Canvas: AI-Powered Artistry

In the realm of digital art, the fusion of technology and creativity has always paved the way for ground breaking tools that transform how we create and visualize ideas. NVIDIA Canvas is one such innovation that stands at the forefront of this artistic revolution.

NVIDIA Canvas is an application that harnesses the power of artificial intelligence to turn simple brushstrokes into stunningly realistic landscape images. It's a tool that empowers both seasoned artists and novices alike, allowing them to expedite the process of background creation and concept exploration, giving them more time to focus on visualizing their ideas.

The Magic of AI in Art

At the heart of NVIDIA Canvas is the GauGAN2 AI model, which is accelerated by Tensor Cores found exclusively on RTX GPUs. This AI assistant enables users to paint with a palette of real-world materials like grass, clouds, or snow. As you craft your scene, the AI works in real-time to fill the canvas with breath taking results. Don't like what you see? Simply swap a material, and watch as the entire image transforms before your eyes as below

Spark your Imagination.

NVIDIA Canvas is not just about the AI; it's about flexibility and control. You can modify the look and feel of your painting with various styles and materials, ensuring that the final image aligns perfectly with your vision. With support for 360 degree panoramas, artists can create wraparound environments that can be exported into any 3D app as rectangular environment maps, enhancing the ambient lighting and reflections for added realism.

Once you've crafted your ideal landscape, NVIDIA Canvas allows you to export your work into Adobe Photoshop for further refinement or combine it with other artwork. The seamless integration with other creative tools ensures that NVIDIA Canvas fits perfectly into your existing workflow.

Getting Started with NVIDIA Canvas

Ready to dive into the world of AI-powered artistry? Getting started with NVIDIA Canvas is really easy. Simply download the beta version , install it, and let your creativity flow. The application is compatible with Windows 11  (also Windows 10) and requires an  NVIDIA RTX GPU.

NVIDIA Canvas represents a leap forward in digital artistry, offering a unique blend of AI innovation and artistic freedom. Whether you're a professional artist looking to streamline your creative process or an enthusiast eager to explore the possibilities of AI, NVIDIA Canvas is a tool that promises to unlock new horizons of creativity.

Navigating the Future: Windows 11 Copilot

With the launch of Windows 11, Microsoft introduced several new features aimed at enhancing user experience.

Windows 11 Copilot a revolutionary tool designed to assist users in navigating the operating system seamlessly. We will find the benefits of Windows 11 Copilot and how it can revolutionize the way you interact with your computer.

Windows 11 Copilot is an AI-powered virtual assistant provides assistance to users. It can help with, setting up, troubleshooting new issues, and optimizing system performance.

The tool utilizes machine learning algorithms to understand user behaviour and preferences, offering tailored solutions.

Windows 11 Copilot streamlines the user interface, making it more intuitive and user friendly It provides contextual guidance and suggestions based on user habits, improving overall productivity.

It is your Personal Assistant.

The virtual assistant learns from your interactions and adapts its recommendations to your individual preferences.

It offers proactive suggestions to customize everything,  based on your own requirements.

Windows 11 CoPilot can help troubleshoot common issues and provide step-by-step solutions.

It also offers guided assistance for complex tasks, reducing the need for extensive technical knowledge.

Windows 11 Copilot includes accessibility features such as voice commands and screen reading capabilities.

It ensures that users with disabilities can navigate Windows 11 easily and efficiently.

Here  i asked co pilot to help with a memory problem.

With Windows 11 Copilot, Microsoft has introduced a game-changing tool that enhances the user experience and simplifies daily tasks.

Windows 11 Copilot is a great addition offering a range of benefits that cater to users' needs.

To use Copilot in Windows 11 press the Windows logo key + C to access.

From personalized assistance to efficient troubleshooting, this  new virtual assistant revolutionizes the way we interact with our devices. Enjoy the power of Windows 11 Copilot and unlock a world of possibilities at your fingertips.

I am  blown away how good it really is and definitely going to be using it as my Copilot from now on.

BitLocker: Securing Your Windows 11 with AES Encryption

As we have discussed the importance of security and updates previously, i am  now going to show you how to add an extra level of protection in case your device gets lost or (God forbid) stolen by adding another layer of protection, safeguarding your personal and sensitive data.

BitLocker: Microsoft's encryption feature is designed to protect your files and drives on Windows systems. We discuss how it enhances security on Windows 11.

BitLocker is a built-in encryption feature in Windows operating systems, including Windows 11, that provides enhanced security by encrypting entire disk volumes. This encryption ensures that unauthorized users cannot access or tamper with your data without the appropriate decryption key.

How Does BitLocker work?

When you enable BitLocker on a drive, it encrypts the entire volume, including all files and system data. To access the encrypted data, you need to provide the decryption key, which can be a password, or smart card. 

Without this key, the data remains inaccessible, even if the drive is removed from the original system. 

BitLocker uses advanced encryption algorithms, such as AES (Advanced Encryption Standard), to protect your data. This ensures that even if someone gains physical access to your drive, they cannot decrypt the data without the correct key.

Your local key cannot be recovered by Microsoft if you forget it, ( can backup key to your Microsoft account)

With BitLocker, even if your device is lost or stolen, your data remains safe and inaccessible to anyone without the decryption key.

BitLocker seamlessly integrates with Windows 11, without the need for third-party software.

Once enabled, BitLocker operates in the background, encrypting and decrypting data on the fly without requiring user intervention.

How to Enable BitLocker on Windows 11

Click on the Search bar, then select type in Control , press enter 

In the Control panel menu,  click System and Security icon

Select BitLocker Drive encryption icon

Find the drive you want to encrypt, then click on turn BitLocker on. Follow the on-screen instructions to enable BitLocker and choose your preferred encryption method and authentication options.

Find the drive you want to encrypt, then click on turn BitLocker on

It's crucial to backup your BitLocker recovery key in case you forget your password or encounter issues accessing your encrypted drive.

Once you've configured BitLocker settings, the encryption process will begin. Depending on the size of the drive and your system's performance, this process may take some time.

You now have a BitLocked drive, which only you can access. 

Please use backups as discussed in previous blog as you may need it one day !

AI Integration: ChatGPT Empowering You

 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) ChatGPT is here and continues to weave itself into the fabric of our digital existence. From predictive algorithms to autonomous systems, AI integration enhances efficiency and productivity across various areas.

With it's advancements in machine learning and natural language processing, computers are becoming adept at understanding and responding to human commands, leading to more intuitive and personalized user experiences.

AI is out the box and no chance of going back.

Anyone who is using  ChatGPT now, won't even think of it as artificial intelligence, as it will become integrated as part of our normal duties, it will enable people by helping them to learn new ways to approach problems  also enhancing existing skill sets.

Take a test drive yourself with ChatGPT 3.5 ,its completely free sign up at and see for yourself,  it is transformative.

I use these mostly 

ChatGPT 3.5   openai.com

Bing create    Bing/Create

Google  gemini.google.com ( used to be Bard)

Just create/ use existing accounts,  sign in go wild with bing create for you art work!

With ChatGPT and Gemini, go and ask them for all kinds of information from a 7 day diet with no fish, help with a application for job or how to build a shed , it's up to your imagination, always correct what it doesn't get completely spot on before sending off or updating newsletters , it's still learning.

There are lots of AI and ChatGPT websites out there just Google them and see what you can do.

Don't get left behind with this new technology  use it have fun with ChatGPT. 

We stand on the eve of a new era in computer technology, the possibilities are as vast as they are exciting. Embracing these advancements with curiosity and enthusiasm, we embark on a journey towards a future where the impossible becomes achievable, and the unimaginable becomes reality.

Bios Updates Are They Necessary in 2024

 

In the fast-paced world of technology, staying up to date with the latest advancements is crucial. 

One aspect that often gets overlooked is the importance of BIOS updates. But with the rapid evolution of hardware and software, BIOS always get overlooked by most people, i think it goes back to early day's when updating your BIOS was considered a last resort !

What are BIOS Updates?

 BIOS, or Basic Input/Output System, is the firmware used to perform hardware initialization during the booting process. BIOS updates are software patches released by manufacturers to enhance compatibility, improve system stability, and address security vulnerabilities.

The Importance of BIOS Updates are

 

Enhanced Compatibility: 

As new hardware components and peripherals are released, these updates ensure seamless compatibility and optimal performance. 

Improved System Stability:

Updates often include bug fixes and optimizations that enhance the overall stability of the system. 

Security Enhancements:

With the increased cybersecurity threats, updates play a crucial role in patching vulnerabilities and safeguarding systems from emerging threats , New hardware innovations, software updates. To ensure your system remains secure, efficient, and compatible with the latest technologies, updates are essential.

Compatibility Concerns:

With new hardware standards and technologies, outdated BIOS versions may struggle to recognize or fully utilize these components. Updating the BIOS ensures that your system can take full advantage of the latest advancements without compatibility issues.

Cybersecurity threats are ever-present, and vulnerabilities in the BIOS can provide attackers with access to the core of your system. Updates are critical in mitigating these risks, as manufacturers release patches to address potential security loopholes.

Smartphone Becomes Car Diagnostic Technician of the Year !

Well it might happen one day !

From 2001 every new car had to have a Diagnostic port called OBD2 installed .This is to open up Diagnosis of most modern cars as only  Manufacturer's & Dealers could find the actual fault on your car, expensive !

My own car developed a "environment issue " error code on display and as it was out of warranty, local garage wanted £70 just to look at it without parts and labour costs!

After researching for a while and learning about these OBD2 ports and different car errors codes,

I found a way to diagnose the car myself with my Smartphone!

Firstly, I had to buy a Bluetooth ODB2 Scan tool to plug into port in car. And find the best app for what I wanted.

I had a set of requirements that both had to meet.

The OBD2 tool had to take power from car no batteries and work on Bluetooth, and the app must connect to the port by Bluetooth but also access the Internet at same time to look up the error codes. (This took me a few weeks btw, checking apps etc)

I found the correct port scanner and app at last

Mini Bluetooth OBD2 Code Reader EOBD Scanner Adapter for Windows and Android devices only

And downloaded  Car scanner app to my phone .

Now starts the fun.

I suggest you play in demo mode to learn how to use the app, as it can be confusing, do a bit of research about app and the OBD2 scanner and once your happy with it connect to your car and take notice and heed of the warning disclaimers in the app.

Plug your scanner tool into OBD2 car port these are located in different places in different cars.

The Scanner is keyed so you can only put it in one way on your car, switch ignition on but with engine not started.

You will see a little red light on OBD2 module.

Use Bluetooth scanner on your phone and pair like you do with speakers etc. Once connected open app and connect it to the Bluetooth scanner in your car.

Then find your car make in setting and select year etc if none available just pick OBDC connection.

Once connected in app  (says connected in green) press the little engine icon press read.

From here it will scan the cars error log looking

for errors, next screen pops up.

If you click on the error like in the demo as long as you phone connected to the Internet, it will take you the page to explain the issue's your car is having.

Click the search and it will explain the fault

On your car. 

It will not fix the car but will point you in the right direction for garage quotes.

Myself I had a error code  as follows

Heated oxygen sensor (H02S) 2, bank 1, heater control - circuit fault on my Clio MK4

Which is the exhaust sensor faulty after the catalytic converter. That's why  i had  a emission

error .Sourced new replacement part  got it fitted.

After you have replaced sensor you have you clear the error code from car. Press engine icon then clear which removes the error from your cars display. Result !

It worked fine ! Passed MOT flying colours.

It may sound very technical,  all above but after learning and putting time in, I have a computer diagnostic program on my smartphone to diagnose my car. 

Repaired my car 1/3 of what it would have cost getting it done at garage.

Diagnostic quote :  £70

Labour fitting part  £60

New sensor:            £167 cheapest I could find UK

My price                 £ 67 part from France 

I have since help with repairs of Fiat C500, Range Rover Evoque and a Nissan micra

The app is free and the OBD2 scanner is £16 !

Amazing bit of kit, I would absolutely recommend everyone get one save you a fortune for outlay of £16 !

The Great Debate: Wireless or Wired Mouse

 

Well for me , when i was new to Pc gaming i bought a wireless Logitech gaming thinking this will be a nice upgrade to have.

I also bought it from bricks and mortar retailer, as i wanted it to see if it fitted my hand comfortably, and a must have was several programmable buttons and nice lighting effects

After trying to use it for a few days i gave up. It just didn't feel as good as a wired mouse not as responsive enough for top gaming. 

So went off looking around online shops for a good gamer wired mouse and again went to a retail park and found a Roccat kova gamer mouse and keyboard bundle in a sale!

Quickly looked on line as was last one in shop it had great write ups and was designed in Germany 

Never heard of the brand before but needless to say i liked the look of the mouse and it felt good in my hand and was light and fitted like a glove.

It also had programmable buttons  and a fantastic pulsing light scheme which I really liked I was sold.

After getting the bundle for less than £45 i was crossing my fingers hoping I had found a bargain.

Setup on my computer and was instantly at home with it, easy setup and playing games within minute's,  absolutely over the moon.

That was a few years ago I still have the same mouse and lighted keyboard. 

It's all a matter how you feel with wired or wireless and I recommend you go to Computer shop and try them out before committing.

So if you fancy a different mouse from usual head, over to To Roccat's site , quality items with German design and reliability. 10% off at this moment!

DirectStorage: Is This Supported By Windows 11

What is Directstorage ? I had never heard of it till I got my computer running Windows 11.

The design comes from Microsoft X box series S and X and now available in Windows 11 by default allowing games to be loaded at extraordinary speeds.

DirectStorage is a API that removes the need for decompression via the CPU. 

Compressed graphics data is transferred directly from the SSD to the graphics card. This way  decompression  happens in the VRAM of the Video card saving time in processing and transferring game data rather than go via CPU.

As it takes the load away from the CPU game loading times are greatly reduced , which I have noticed when playing my latest game (3 years old,  because my old Computer couldn't play it ) 

Only problem it it requires a NVME Gen 4 Model and a Graphic card that runs DX12 and a new motherboard!

Technology moves on and sooner or later upgrades are required 

There is a very easy way to check if you can use the new Gamer features in Windows 11

Just press Windows key and letter "G" and up pops following window.

There are not many games to take advantage of this Tech at the moment ,  Forespoken and Ratch and Clank: Rift apart  (Pc port) are the only ones i could find .

That will change, at least the Game bar worked with Back4Blood could record, take screen shots and broadcast live game if i wanted  etc

Doom Eternal No! and the Game bar did say it was incompatible .

Its my most playable game at this moment in time, loads in 6 or 7 seconds but that just the raw speed of the Firecuda Gen 4 NVME 

We will have to wait and see if the Game  Devs will support these new features in the future

Windows 11 Feb 2024 Update May Fail

There is a known problem with the latest February 2024 Security update, ( KB5034765), and (KB5034848), and you could get issues when the update runs.

The security update may fail, when the install reaches 96% and the computer will roll back to the previous update.

You will see this this on  Computer screen

“Something didn’t go as planned. No need to worry – undoing changes. Please keep your computer on”.

To be fair I have seen updates hang at this point  many times over the years when Microsoft  releases it's updates. It its balancing act, fix known bug's , loopholes or leave system open to attack from hackers. Sort of a no win situation !

Please always remember to create a restore point  (as below ) before updating your windows installation as then you can roll back if the update fails.

Thankfully Microsoft has a workaround for this, and will be fixed in next security update release.

The problem can be fixed quite easily by deleting the hidden folder C:\$WinREAgent, but you need to make the folder visible before you can delete it.

The C:\$WinREAgent folder is created when doing a windows upgrade or update and it is only used when it fails and a rollback is required.

After you have deleted the folder restart your computer .

You should now be able to install the February 2024 security update.

The affects computer's, who have already have the following updates installed

Windows 11, version 23H2

Windows 11, version 22H2

Relocate Windows 11 Start Menu

After finally getting Windows 11 up and running as I wanted ,the one thing i really did not like was the Position of the Windows 11 start menu.

After usual searching forums tech tips (some even had registry hacks!) Which am I not a great fan of as  this can be replaced with windows updates later on. 

Thankfully Microsoft relented and you can now change its position quite easily. 

I am using Windows 11 Professional 23H2 with latest revision 29.2.2024.

Select Settings >Personalization > Taskbar.

Now it feels much better to use,back to normality at last.

I see a lot of forum's even Microsoft ones saying it does not work at all and they give up.

I am Just wondering if they all have latest updates?

Windows 11 Menu Start relocate definitely works for me , which is such a relief 

Solid State Drive or NVME, Winner is ?

 

I've had my SanDisk extreme pro SSD drive for 8 years now and It has never let me down.

As I had to upgrade because of Windows 11, I looked at newer technologies available who wants to put old slow hardware in a new pc ?

So after searching for new technologies and found that the NVMe M2 drives was what i was looking for with a massive increase in read write speed.

NVMe hard drives use the PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) interface for data transfer bypassing other bottlenecks, they are available in different Generations 2 , 3 and 4.

Unplug your computer from the mains supply before starting any upgrades to prevent any damage to component's while installing.

Also please touch your metal case to discharge any static build-up before handling your expensive parts.

It fits directly into the M2 slot on the motherboard , you can only fit it one way  as keyed but be careful as you screw it in , only 1 screw.

Speeds are off the chart as below. A Head-to-Head Comparison of both drives.

Seagate Firecuda 520 500GB PCIe Gen4 X4 NVMe 1.3 (ZP500GM3A002)

Max Sequential Read Up to 5000 MB/s 

Max Sequential Write Up to 2500 MB/s

SanDisk Extreme PRO 480GB SATA 6.0Gb/s 

Max Sequential Read Up to 550 MB/s

Max Sequential Write Up to 515 MB/s

Transfer speeds 45% faster than older PCIe Gen3 NVMe SSDs and up to 8+faster than SATA SSD

It's evident that embracing the future of storage with NVMe Gen 4 is the way to go for those seeking premium performance.

Unfortunately, as with all new technologies you will probably need to update your motherboard to the latest generation that's support M2 2280 NVMe drives.

At least you can get 5 years warranty and 3 years data recovery with  Seagate Firecuda free !

Computer Diagnostics: Blue Screens or Bleeps Help!

Are you tired of dealing with computer issues and not knowing where to start? 

Well I've got just the solution for you - diagnostic applications for your computer.

What precisely are diagnostic applications?

These clever utilities are crafted to scrutinize your computer's hardware and software, aiding in the detection of any issues that might be causing performance dips or other malfunctions

I will share the apps I use to keep my computer running while checking for errors before things become critical. 

Your computer already has built-in diagnostics,  even before you start Windows. When you Start your Computer it invokes a set of hardware checks already inbuilt from the BIOS

(Basic Input Output System) and with the latest generation boards does a lot more like temp check, drive check cpu ,faulty memory check very basic one and PSU monitor.

Application's i use all the time.

HWINFO is windows 11 compatible  and  will analyse your hardware after loading Windows 11

It can keep an eye on the Memory, NVME drives and CPU temperature all at the same time.

You can set the thresholds you require and it will warn you in System tray,  when run minimised.

It displays a lot of information which you can digest at you own convenience.

If you have Seagate drives another app i use is SeaTools

Run a quick test and ensure you drive is ok  it works for NVME and any Seagate drive.

Really handy to check status of you drives at a glance

Mem Test  App

Used to test memory from a bootable USB and checks all you Memory Modules download app follow prompts very easy.

The Full tests take a long time but well worth the effort and usually leave it running for a 1 or 2 to stress test the memory.

Event Viewer is really good already also  built into windows just right click windows logo task bar and select Event viewer from list.

These are 3 main one's to look at , ones highlighted in yellow  I glance at for quick check.

Red one requires thorough investigation. 

As seen from above I have Red Steam error. Upon investigation it just timed out , probably connection dropped to internet for a min it does happen unfortunately!

There are a lot of apps out there , got a problem check with tech friends,  tech forums there is always a way to sort things out .