Inactive auto shutdown

17.09.07: How to auto shutdown laptop after inactivity

All of us with laptops want to save our battery from being replaced as long as possible.
Many new laptops have batteries you can't detach!

We all like to leave our batteries in the laptop and trust it will last a long time when we need it to run on battery only.
Leaving your battery on your laptop will not prolong battery life.

Theay is a way to shutdown your laptop after minutes of inactivity ... which dramatically increases battery life.
This is helpful when you are using the battery and step away and forget it it's running on battery only.

Pls follow the instructions exactly as indicated!

Click on the windows icon

Type regedit

Right-click on regedit icon, click Run as administrator

Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Power\PowerSettings\238C9FA8-0AAD-41ED-83F4-97BE242C8F20\7bc4a2f9-d8fc-4469-b07b-33eb785aaca0

Double click on Attributes

Enter number 2.

Go to Advanced power settings (click on Windows button, write power options, click on Power Options, in the selected plan click on the Change plan settings, click on the Change advanced power settings).

Click on the Change settings that are currently unavailable

Click Sleep, then System unattended sleep timeout, then change these settings from 2 Minutes to 20 for example.

I have this running on my laptop and it does shutdown exactly when I indicated.

It does give you warning and you can override the shutdown  ... useful when not in battery mode.

Win10 - Automatic Backup - maybe finally here...

15.12.24: Backup is a word that means "effort I must do ... but not right now".

I agree. It should not mean you need to spend time doing something the system should do for you.

About 20 years ago, I developed a Dos BAT pgm (this is a techie term not used today) that automatically only updated files that have been changed. It worked well and I didn't need to think about backing up critical files on my computer.
For some reason, this approach is no longer used. Such is technology progress...

I should indicate, at this time, I do not use the backup approach outlined here, as I maintain a USB hard drive for backup and I also backup all my important files on my alternate system (I have Win10 and win7 on separate discs).

If you are still with me on this process, I will simplify the Backup and the Restore steps.

Backup

With Windows 10 File History, an easier and more comprehensive backup system is available to the average user.

File History will look after all aspects of file backup ... without you being involved. What could be easier!

It retains and manages iterations and deletes oldest when space is limited and much more.
It works with USB attached drives and much more.



Now, you need to understand a few basics before getting into this auto backup.
If you have any questions, before going further, let me know.
  1. Using a backup system requires a storage device. It shouldn't use your existing system drive (in case of hard drive failure). You will need to decide if purchasing a storage device (if you don't have extra storage devices) is agreeable right now.

2. Consider how much space is required for your important changeable files only. Pictures, music, videos should be stored elsewhere as they don't change (require updating).

3. There are other things in File History we will not go into at this time ... keep it simple.


Backup - Getting Started:

To begin using File History, you need to determine where the files will be stored and which files will be backed up. You should use this system only for important files that change ... not pictures or songs or movies.

First, you need to click on Settings in the Start Menu. 
Select the Upgrade and Security and then Backup to open the Using File History page.
Then click the Add A Drive button and Win10 will list a few locations that could hold your backup files.

Next, you need to configure File History (click the More options to link to display the Backup Options page) and determine how long to retain files. 
To save time, I suggest 'until space is needed', as it will automatically delete the oldest saved version when space is needed.
Then, you need to use the Backup These Folders section to specify the important folders you want to backup. You can also exclude files within these folders.

What Not To Backup:
Now to decide on an important item ... static important files (pictures, songs, movies, etc).
In my opinion, they should be backed up but, as they never change, I strongly suggest one-time copying to an external source such as DVDs or USB sticks or SDcards. They now have 256GB SDcards for around $10 on eBay. While they don't work as a drive your system can us, you can copy data to them and use as external storage device.

Go back to the top of the backup section and click on Backup Now. 

The initial backup may take some time so don't turn your computer off until it indicates backup is completed.

That's all you need to do to setup and run the back up of your files.

The next consideration is restoring a file from File History (covered in this blog item).

Restore - Before investing in a backup procedure, you should always ensure the restore process is easily understood and really works as you expect. Win10 has included a quite comprehensive restore you should find works quite easily.

Restore - Getting Started

Let me know if you have any questions, during the review of the above and any time afterwards.

Micro SD cards

16.10.03 - Have you ever wondered what a micro SD card is or where they are used or, more importantly, which card is best for a specific device?

As I am currently upgrading my cards (smartphone and camera) to 128gb size, thought I would let you know what i have reviewed.

Micro SD cards come with a case to enable use in devices that can't use the micro card itself.
As i want to interchange usage, I always buy the micro card that comes with the case.

My preferred method of use is extract the micro card from the camera or smartphone, place it in the case and then insert in the computer card slot, to back up data. 

Most cameras and smartphones allow for storage size of 128gb now and some allow for 200gb. But the 200gb cards are still quite a bit more expensive for high speed read/write.

Understanding read/write speed is important for certain applications on cameras and smartphones.
It is getting a little complicated and I will try to simplify in this blog item.

A Few Specifics:
1. Faster speed is better but more expensive
2. Read speed is always faster than write speed
3. Most manufacturers present read speed and not write speed
4. Write speed is important for HD and 4K (coming soon) video
5. Higher read speed helps when transferring data to your computer
6. The quality manufacturers are: SanDisk, Samsung, Kingston, Toshiba and Lexar 
7. Class 10 should be the only type SD card you buy

MicroSD card Specs:
1. MicroSDXC (XC - extended capacity) are cards above 32gb
2. MicroSDXC UHS-I (ultra high speed or U1) writes at higher than a Class 10 minimum speed and reads up to a maximum of 104MB/s (MB/s - characters per second)
3. U3 (UHS-III) and V30 refer to video speeds that cannot be used on current equipment but are the highest available today and will be supported in new devices 
4. Refer to the pic (click to enlarge) or check this link for rated speeds of various manufacturers

In my opinion, you are best advised to buy a UHS-I microSD card. 
SanDisk Ultra is a tried/true 128gb product and it has approx 80 read and 60 write ... which will work very well for everything you do on a smartphone or camera (even 60fps 1080p video).
If you are interested in the best price (and can wait for delivery), eBay has the 128gb for $15 (including delivery).
A good alternative is the Samsung Evo+ 128gb ($16 on eBay) which has 80 read and 20 write speeds.

But, check your user manual to ensure it handles 128gb and UHS-I type cards. 

Protecting your PC - Windows 10

16.02.01: When you install a new operating system (Windows 10, etc), it is important to ensure you can recover if a problem prevents you from starting your computer.

As a lot of PC owners are now moving to Windows 10 (most times without really wanting/needing to), it is very important you to do two things after moving to the new system.

Backup and Restore in Windows 10

Here is a very good section that outlines various methods of preparing for recovery from inability to access your Win10 system - Backup and Restore in Windows 10 - right-click the Start button, and then select Control Panel, and then Backup and Restore (Windows 7).

On this screen, you will see two main approaches to recovering your PC: 
 - Create a System Image - lots of space (hard drive or disc) required, 
 - Create a System Repair Disc - one disc required. I suggest Repair Disc.
You will also notice File History on bottom left of this screen. Pls refer to blog item Win10 - Automatic Backup for details on this backup type.


Following, are the two minimum things you should do after installing Win10. 



1. Create a System Repair Disc



It is quite easy and not time consuming to create a disc (or USB device).
a. Right-click on Start icon and then Control Panel.
b. Under System and Security, select Backup and Restore (Windows 7).
c. Select Create a System Repair Disc and place a blank DVD or CD in the drive and select 'create disc'.
d. When it is finished, label the disc and date it. 


2. Create a Windows 10 System Restore Point 


This Microsoft site outlines backup procedures for Win10.
a. In the Create a Restore Point section, right-click the Start  button, then select Control Panel and then System and Maintenance and then System.
b. Ensure all drives under Protection Settings are off except the c-drive.
c. click on Create and enter a description. 
d. You are now ready to create the first restore point.





3. Now you need to review my blog item Windows 10 - What to Watch out for to ensure you agree with the defaults Microsoft has made on your behalf.

Dishwasher - drain problem

15.12.21: Have you had a problem with your dishwasher and discovered it was a drain problem?

Chances are, if you have had a problem, you have called your repair people and they have told you it is a draining problem and (if not under warranty) charged you a fair amount to fix it...and didn't tell you how to fix it yourself the next time it happens.

Well, I have just gone thru the blocked drain problem and fixed it without any cost!

The scenario:

1. Our dishwasher stopped working (Dec 21st ... will we have a problem over xmas!) ... no indication of problem.

2. Pulled out the under-counter Bosch dishwasher and unpluged the power cord (yes, there is a simpler way)

3. Plugged the power cord back in and E:15 appeared on the display

4. Was immediately upset that the manual didn't identify this error msg!!

5. Checked Utube for this problem ... quite a few solutions listed!

6. Here is the summary of my analysis and conclusions:

6a. exhaust drain blocked ... sounds right!
6b. tilt dishwasher to drain excess water ... sounds right!
6c. ensure dishwasher drain tube is above sink drain tube ... sounds right!   
6d. dishwasher drain is blocked and must be cleaned ... sounds right!
6e. try flushing the drain to unplug a constriction ... sounds best!

7. Took out the filter and ensured no blockage and then poured 2 litres of hot water into the dishwasher and plugged it in again. All the water automatically drained (possibly unplugging the obstruction).

8. Started the dishwasher cycle ... and it worked!

Summary:

You can either decide you do not want to solve the problem and ask a dishwasher expert to fix it ... or you can spend a little time and maybe fix it yourself.

Regardless, in my opinion, our 'system' is set up to default to the 'experts'.
It is easier, and maybe the optimal solution .. for us older types ...

Android Phone - Can't send pic with text msg without wifi

15.12.12: Can't send pics with text msg when not wifi connected?

"Please turn Mobile Data on to send MMS"

There is a possibility you have a Data problem with the new Android 5 Lollipop system.

If the above message appears in your texting application, try this first:
1. Settings - Data Usage - turn "Mobile data" off and then back on after 15 seconds
2. Restart your phone and try to resend the text with pic. 

If this didn't fix the problem, click on the pic on the left and follow the instructions.

It worked for my Samsung Galaxy Note 3.

Furnace Humidifiers - correct type and wiring

16.01.03: Is your furnace humidifier working correctly?

If you are replacing a furnace humidifier, read this blog item before deciding on the type of humidifier to use and how to wire it.

These pics are of our reservoir type Desert Spring furnace humidifier I installed a couple of years ago.
As of yesterday, it is wired correctly. Read on, for "correct".

Two Important Aspects of Furnace Humidifiers:

A. Types of furnace Humidifiers
B. Wiring of Furnace Humidifiers

A. There are basically two Types of furnace humidifiers:

1. Water reservoir - an electric motor ($20) turns a filter ($12) drum in a water reservoir and water is added only when used - Desert Spring DS-3200, Wait 1000
2. Continuous water flow - an electric water solenoid ($50) flows water (approx 12 gal/day) continuously over a stationary filter pad ($20) - Wait 5000, Desert Spring DS-PFT

New models of above types (just introduced by Desert Spring):

1. Reservoir auto-flush add-on - replaces the water in the reservoir 48 hours
2. Continuous flow pulsed-flow - uses only 20% of the std 14 gal/day water
3. Continuous flow with humidisenser - water only flows when temperature sensor (humidisenser) reads higher temperature caused by furnace running and humidistat calls for humidity

Good/bad with new models:
  a. more efficient than their predecessors and/or easier to maintain
  b. more electronics that can go wrong and require replacement

My Evaluation of Humidifier Types:

In my opinion, the original water reservoir with drum filter (Wait 1000) wired to run only when the furnace is running and humidity is required is the BEST (purchase, installation, maintenance, cost). 
With reservoir types, you need to clean each spring and replace the drum filter ($12) yearly. 
With continuous flow types, you need to replace the filter yearly.

B. Wiring of a Furnace Humidifier

There are two ways to electrically wire a furnace humidifier: 
1. wrong - connect to a 24 volt transformer connected to your 110 volt house current - runs all the time the humidistat asks for humidity
2. right - connect to a 24 volt source in the furnace - runs only when the furnace is running and the humidistat calls for humidity 

Just to protect anyone who proceeds with this blog guidance:
a. Pls read the instructions for your furnace humidifier install and do not wire to 110 volt if it indicates 24 volt. More on this later in the blog item.
b. If considering wiring to a 24 volt furnace terminal, be sure to fully understand which terminals to use or employ a furnace technician.

Note: If you are considering a new/replacement furnace humidifier, read everything before proceeding.

In summary so far:
1. The most efficient furnace humidifier is a reservoir type (with electric motor)
2. The most efficient way to connect a furnace humidifier is via the furnace 24 volt connection (to ensure it only runs when the furnace is on) 

Common problems with furnace humidifiers:
1. Humidity level - not high enough 
2. Filter pad (continuous flow) type - too much water flow 
3. Filter pad (continuous flow) type - no water flow
4. Rotating drum (reservoir)  type - drum motor running all the time 

Reason/solutions for/to above problems:
1. Humidity is not high enough - more on this later, as it can have many sources.
2. Water Solenoid is incorrectly wired or defective:
   a. the solenoid needs to be replaced, if wired to the furnace
   b. the solenoid needs to be wired to the furnace 24 volt terminal
3. No humidity required or defective solenoid:
   a. The humidistat is not calling for humidity - wired correctly - no problem
   b. The humidistat is calling for humidity - replace solenoid 
4. Incorrectly wired - move drum motor wiring to furnace 24 volt terminal

Here is a diagram with correct wiring a humidifier to the furnace HUM wire or terminal. 
The wiring is the same for drum reservoir type (electric drum motor) or continuous flow type (water solenoid).
With either type, the electric power must be 24vac instead of normal house 110vac.
If the HUM furnace terminal indicates 24vac, just connect the wires.
If the HUM furnace terminal doesn't indicate 24vac, you need a 24vac transformer.


If you already have a humidifier on your furnace, the wires to it come from the furnace or a device connected to your house 110vac. 
If the wires come from the furnace, just reconnect to the new humidifier.
If the wires do not come from the furnace, you can make the humidifier much more efficient and save electricity cost. The wires probably come from a device connected to your house 110vac. You can detach it and re-attach it inside your furnace (if your furnace HUM wire/terminal doesn't indicate 24vac). 
Call me, if this isn't easy to understand.

If you are not comfortable with wiring, you should check with your furnace technician on correct wiring for your furnace.
If you are a DIY person, check your furnace installation guide or YouTube for guidance/reassurance.

Most furnaces have a location to connect a humidifier to ensure the humidifier only runs when the furnace is on and the humidistat is calling for moisture.
It is usually identified as HUM. The newer furnaces have a 24vac HUM connection. If this connection isn't identified as 24vac, you will need to install one of these 24vac devices (see black area in pic - upper left). 

I have the Desert Spring multi-disk drum (reservoir) type and it has a common electric motor to tun the drum and a replaceable filter. 

My furnace is a Trane XV80 and was wired incorrectly to the black device connected to our house 110vac and the humidifier ran whenever the humidistat was on. Very inefficient.

To wire most efficiently, I needed to find the HUM wire for the humidifier in the junction box (see pic - just below the black device), as there wasn't a HUM terminal on the circuit board. I also had to move the 24vac black box from the 110vac to the furnace HUM wire (as the HUM wire didn't indicate 24vac).
I rewired it yesterday and the humidifier now only runs when the furnace is running.

In summary
If you are planning to replace your furnace humidifier, consider a reservoir drum type humidifiers, as the only moving part is the electric drum motor ($20 at CTC) and there is no water wasted. Cheapest to buy, install and maintain. Just clean and replace the drum filter ($12) each spring.

To minimize cost and conserve electricity and/or water, be sure to wire the humidifier to the furnace 24vac terminal/wire. 
Before buying, always check the cost of replacement parts (filter pads, electric motor, water solenoid valve), as some are very expensive and required frequently.

If at all unsure of how to wire to your furnace, pls call me or your furnace technician, as any related damage to your furnace could void your warranty and/or maintenance contract.

If you have any questions or comments, pls respond to this blog item.