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Laptop or PC won't boot up with a new cloned drive
- By A.H.D.A.
- 12/05/2025
- 0 comments
A common problem with cloning operating systems onto a new drive (U.2, M.2, SSD or HDD), is that the PC will not start up as it should. It can either stay blank, have a flashing cursor, or the computer may display an error that a "hardware change has occurred, a required device isn't connected, or that a repair needs to be done", similar to this error: Recovery Your PC/Device needs to be repaired A required device isn't connected or can't be accessed. Error code 0xc000000e These steps will resolve the issue in the majority of cases where a cloned drive is not booting up. 1. Che..
Intel vs AMD: Which One Is the Better Choice?
- By A.H.D.A.
- 10/05/2025
- 0 comments
Background Overview AMD (Advanced Micro Devices) Established in 1969, AMD has been a major player in the semiconductor industry. It significantly disrupted the CPU market with its Ryzen series, known for strong multi-core performance and competitive pricing. These traits have made AMD a favorite among gamers and professionals who prioritize multitasking and affordability. Intel (Integrated Electronics) Founded in 1968, Intel boasts over five decades of experience in processor technology. Renowned for delivering excellent single-core performance and energy efficiency, Intel CPUs—p..
Different types of SSD form factors
- By A.H.D.A.
- 09/05/2025
- 0 comments
You're planning to boost your system's performance by upgrading to a new SSD—but how do you pick the right one? Your choice will largely depend on your system's storage connection type and the SSD's form factor, which refers to its physical shape and size. SSDs typically connect using either a SATA or NVMe interface (the latter through PCIe). SATA has been the dominant interface for years, initially created for hard drives and later adapted for solid-state drives. In contrast, NVMe was built from the ground up specifically for SSDs, offering faster speeds and support for a range of form fac..
Network cable standards - CAT 5e Ethernet , CAT 6 Ethernet , CAT 6a Ethernet , CAT 7 Ethernet , CAT 8 Ethernet
- By A.H.D.A.
- 08/05/2025
- 0 comments
Network cable standards evolve over time. This page lists the current Ethernet cable standards in easy to follow cheat-sheet table formats. Ethernet cable cheat sheets Cat 5e Ethernet cable Feature Description Cable Type CAT5e Ethernet Cable Speed Capability 1Gbps up to 100m Popularity Most commonly used Ethernet cable in South Africa Speed Capability Up to Gigabit speed transmission Cost Cost-effective Ease of Use Easy to use for end-to-end installations ..
Active noise cancellation in headsets and ear buds
- By A.H.D.A.
- 07/05/2025
- 0 comments
Active noise cancellation is also known as Active noise control (ANC) Active noise cancelling (ANC) Active noise reduction (ANR) Noise cancellation (NC) Active noise control (ANC), also called noise cancellation (NC) or active noise reduction (ANR), is a way to reduce unwanted sound by creating another sound (an opposite wave of equal magnitude / volume) that cancels it out. The idea started in the late 1930s, and by the 1950s, more work was done to develop it. By the late 1980s, it was used in headsets for airline passengers. Today, you can also find this technology in ..
Integrated vs. Dedicated Graphics: Which GPU Is Right for You?
- By A.H.D.A.
- 07/05/2025
- 0 comments
When shopping for a new laptop or desktop, you'll likely run into the terms integrated graphics and dedicated GPU. But what do they actually mean, and which one should you choose? Whether you're a casual user, creative professional, or gamer, picking the right GPU can make a big difference in performance and value. Let’s break it down. What Is a GPU, and Why Does It Matter? A GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) is a specialized processor designed to handle visual tasks—everything from rendering images and playing videos to powering games and 3D applications. Unlike your CPU, which handles ..
My laptop screen just died / went black / blank! How do I fix this?
- By A.H.D.A.
- 05/05/2025
- 0 comments
If your laptop screen has gone black or blank, you may try these options to see if you can restore the video. These options do not have to be done in the same sequence as shown below, and some of the steps will not be possible without a second working display. Try the following Description 1. Restart the Laptop Begin with a simple restart: press the power button to turn off the laptop and then turn it back on. If that doesn't help, perform a hard reset by holding the power button until the laptop powers off, then restart it. 2. Use a Shortc..
Intel Core i7 vs. Core i9: A Comparison
- By A.H.D.A.
- 05/05/2025
- 0 comments
Intel's Core i7 and Core i9 processors represent the higher end of the company’s Core series, offering powerful performance suited for demanding users. While both options are more costly than mid-range chips like the Core i5, they deliver significant advantages depending on your specific needs. The Core i7 line was introduced between 2008 and 2010, alongside the i5 and i3 models, and has since undergone major upgrades through new microarchitectures like Coffee Lake and Tiger Lake. In 2017, Intel launched the Core i9, aimed at users needing even greater power, with configurations supporting ..
Processor benchmarks - find the best CPU for your needs
- By A.H.D.A.
- 05/05/2025
- 0 comments
Understanding CPU Benchmarks CPU benchmarks are essential for comparing how well different processors perform, especially when deciding if a system can handle your favorite games or applications. Why Benchmarks Matter While you can start by comparing specs like core count and clock speed, benchmarks are especially helpful when you're: Choosing between older high-end CPUs and newer midrange models Estimating performance improvements in specific apps or games Upgrading or overclocking your processor Benchmarks provide standardized scores based on perform..
Differences between the Intel i3, i5 and i7 CPUs
- By A.H.D.A.
- 05/05/2025
- 0 comments
CPU and Processor CPU is the abbreviation for Central processing unit. The "CPU" is the "processor". The processor is the chip that takes information in (the input), it processes the information and generates a correct response internally (it processes the information), and then sends the results out again by means of instructions to another part of the system (the output). The easiest way to explain this process is by using a very simplified example: When a user types "1+1=" on a keyboard (that is the input), the CPU will then calculate the answer to be 2 (it processes the input a..
How to Fix a Laptop That Won’t Power On: 10 Simple Steps
- By A.H.D.A.
- 02/05/2025
- 0 comments
If your laptop won't turn on, follow these steps: Step What to Do Instructions 1. Check Power Supply Verify power source and adapter - Confirm charger is plugged in properly - Try a different wall socket - Use another adapter if available - Remove battery (if removable) and power on with charger only 2. Hard Reset Reset laptop’s power - Disconnect charger and remove battery - Hold power button for 30 seconds - Plug in charger only and try turning on 3. Screen Check Ensure screen is working ..
Workstation vs. Desktop: What’s Best for Your Business?
- By A.H.D.A.
- 02/05/2025
- 0 comments
When deciding between a desktop PC and a workstation for your business, the right choice depends on the type of work your team does. Workstations can offer a major boost in performance and productivity, but not every role needs that level of power. Employees who handle heavy workloads—like engineers, video editors, or designers—often need the advanced capabilities of a workstation. Others, such as administrative staff or those working with standard office software, can usually get by with a more affordable desktop PC or laptop. Both desktops and workstations can support remote work, soft..
Acer Extensa Series - a quick overview and review
- By A.H.D.A.
- 02/05/2025
- 0 comments
Smart. Portable. Built for Business. If you’re a small business owner or entrepreneur looking for a reliable, high-performing laptop that won’t break the bank, the Acer Extensa series is your ideal partner. Designed with essential business features in a sleek and highly portable form, these laptops are engineered to keep up with your pace—whether you're working from the office, home, or on the move. Tailored to Your Needs The Extensa family offers a versatile range of models powered by Intel® processors—from the efficient Core™ i3 to the robust Core™ i7—making it easy to find a machin..
Review: Should Office Users Consider an All-in-One (AIO) PC?
- By A.H.D.A.
- 30/04/2025
- 0 comments
When it comes to setting up a clean, professional workspace, the all-in-one (AIO) PC offers a sleek and efficient solution. Designed to combine the monitor and computing components into a single, streamlined unit, AIO PCs are ideal for modern offices that prioritize minimalism, space efficiency, and ease of setup. AIO PC comes in a variety of setups, from basic to powerful configurations. A Practical Option for Everyday Office Tasks For general office work—such as document editing, emailing, video conferencing, and browser-based applications—AIO PCs are more than capable. One long-ter..
Lead acid vs Lithium ion batteries
- By A.H.D.A.
- 17/04/2025
- 0 comments
This article explains the major differences between Lead acid batteries and Lithium ion batteries. The most striking difference between the two is price, with Lithium iron batteries costing more than Lead acid batteries. The question we pose is: Are Lithium ion batteries better value for money compared to Lead acid batteries? Let us dive deeper to find the answer. What Are Deep Cycle Batteries? Deep cycle batteries are built to deliver power steadily over a long time, which makes them great for things that need continuous electricity—like solar power systems or backup supplies. ..