Recent Posts

6726

Living Room / Re: Win 7, XP mode, & other first install queries

« Last post by tomos on July 22, 2011, 01:48 PM »

^
> Sorry I thought there was a debate before over whether to go the VM route or dual boot XP.

No apologies! there was a debate but from what Cyberdiva said, I'm hopeful my older software will work okay. I guess I should just test the software at this stage and if it doesnt work, cut my losses and reinstall, but with xp first, as you suggest.

I hope to avoid having to use it at all to be honest

6727

Living Room / Re: Win 7, XP mode, & other first install queries

« Last post by tomos on July 22, 2011, 03:58 AM »

I thought you were installing XP too? I strongly recommend you install XP first so that mutliboot settings are set up correctly - otherwise you will end up with either an XP install that doesn't boot (and isn't on drive C) or a Windows 7 that won't boot without repairing it.

-Carol Haynes (July 22, 2011, 03:48 AM)

I dont know - I thought the general consensus was that going virtual was easier, and had said I would go that route (VM) ....
Do you think installing XP as well would be advantageous?


[edit] I think I'll just stick with the win7 install as both my xp disk are without service packs, or maybe one of them has SP1. Which would mean I'd have to slipstream before the install even.. [/edit]

6728

Living Room / Re: Win 7, XP mode, & other first install queries

« Last post by tomos on July 22, 2011, 03:51 AM »

You can see the 100Mb partition if you look in disk management. It doesn't appear as a drive in 'Computer' because it doesn't have a letter assigned.

-Carol Haynes (July 22, 2011, 03:48 AM)

No,
I had a look there. And on the web, apparently whats happening is this:

Windows 7 installation wizard will not modify existing partition which already been defined and allocated. The 100 MB .. partiton will only be created when user creates new partition on a clean and empty HDD (no partitions) [with the windows install dvd], or delete all partitions and then create a new partition during setup. Thus, system with hard disk already partitioned, and users wish no change to existing partitioning but wish to clean install can just format the partition in Windows 7 setup wizard before installing.

http://www.mydigital...nstalling-windows-7/

i.e. Windows only creates that partition if starting on a 'clean' (partitionless) hd
Do you think is it important or helpful to have it?
I could clean off all partitions using parted magic

6729

Living Room / Re: Win 7, XP mode, & other first install queries

« Last post by tomos on July 22, 2011, 03:44 AM »

During the windows install I could only delete one partition, so I deleted the bigger one and leave the 100GB one which where I wanted Win7 anyways.

But this time round it doesnt say anything about creating a 100MB system partition.

-tomos (July 22, 2011, 03:30 AM)

Doesnt look like it created the 100MB partition or is it hidden under windows?
No, I'm fairly sure it should show....

Any ideas?

6730

Living Room / Re: Win 7, XP mode, & other first install queries

« Last post by tomos on July 22, 2011, 03:30 AM »

Start the machine with only one disk installed, the one you want Windows on. You can use the Windows setup program to delete the now booboo set of partitions and start over cleanly with only the 100GB partition and the 100MB boot partition on the same drive.

-Stoic Joker (July 21, 2011, 01:26 PM)

OK I disconnected one hard drive.
During the windows install I could only delete one partition, so I deleted the bigger one and leave the 100GB one which where I wanted Win7 anyways.

But this time round it doesnt say anything about creating a 100MB system partition.

I stopped it and started it again - no difference.
So I'll leave it install & see how it looks at the end - at least it's a quick install

6731

Living Room / Re: Win 7, XP mode, & other first install queries

« Last post by tomos on July 21, 2011, 02:16 PM »

If you leave it split up the way it is now it'll bite you in the ass down the road when you start trying to troubleshoot something.

-Stoic Joker (July 21, 2011, 01:26 PM)

hadnt even thought of that aspect
My sense of organisation alone demands it be done properly!!
Performance too would surely be negatively affected the way it is now...

It'll have to wait till tomorrow at this stage though.
Lovely quiet machine anyways, thankfully

6732

Living Room / Re: Win 7, XP mode, & other first install queries

« Last post by tomos on July 21, 2011, 01:08 PM »

More complications:

the computer was built with two drive, one faster one slower.
The slower drive is Disk 0
So I installed Windows on Disk 1, but the System 100MB partition went automatically on Disk 0 (or could I have made a mistake there too, no I dont believe so, I had no choice with that).

Is that a problem?
I guess I could swap the drives within the case if necessary....

in case you're totally confused by the above, left column is Disk 0, right is Disk 1

Disk 0 - slower	Disk1 - faster
System 100MB	D 100gig / empty
unallocated 2gig	C 800gig / Windows!

wot a messy business!

6733

Living Room / Re: Win 7, XP mode, & other first install queries

« Last post by tomos on July 21, 2011, 10:52 AM »

You should select/highlight the desired partition (100 GB) before clicking on Continue (or what was that button called), and maybe even format it, but I'm not sure about that.

-Ath (July 21, 2011, 10:42 AM)

Yeah, it was a very easy install but I'll be more careful next time!
I think I'll format the drive completely & start again though, no point in NOT having windows at the start of the drive....

6734

Living Room / Re: Win 7, XP mode, & other first install queries

« Last post by tomos on July 21, 2011, 10:27 AM »

Otherwise the Windows install partitioning is super easy to use. Hit advanced, set C: as X, and worry about the rest later when you start moving in.

-Stoic Joker (July 18, 2011, 06:47 PM)

I took you literally there, just created the C partition and let it off - it's "Expanding windows files" as I write

-tomos (July 21, 2011, 06:05 AM)

already gone pear shaped - probably my mistake
I created a partition of 100GB and proceeded with the install (I did look at the unalotted space and wondered whether to create another partition, maybe my downfall)
What happened then was that windows was installed in the unalloted space.
So I now have:

• 100GB partition empty, presumably at the start of the disk
  
• VERY Large partition with windows in it.....

Well, Im laughing about it, so things could be a lot worse

Not sure how to proceed, will probably start from scratch, can windows remove the partitions already made?

6735

Living Room / Re: Win 7, XP mode, & other first install queries

« Last post by tomos on July 21, 2011, 06:05 AM »

Otherwise the Windows install partitioning is super easy to use. Hit advanced, set C: as X, and worry about the rest later when you start moving in.

-Stoic Joker (July 18, 2011, 06:47 PM)

I took you literally there, just created the C partition and let it off - it's "Expanding windows files" as I write

6736

General Software Discussion / Re: Deduplication, encryption, security and... Dropbox

« Last post by tomos on July 20, 2011, 11:24 AM »

Well, at least it isn't because of a security problem!

-J-Mac (July 19, 2011, 09:02 PM)

I actually think that makes it worse.  How can one trust their security code if they're having this much of a problem detecting how much space a user is using vs what they're allotted?

-TheQwerty (July 20, 2011, 11:20 AM)

could be "just" that they really dont want to give those 50 gigs away any more....

6737

Living Room / Re: Looking at Cameras

« Last post by tomos on July 19, 2011, 03:42 PM »

I'm not expert enough to answer all your questions kunkel321, but I'll make a few comments anyways

A friend of mine had a fuji camera a few years back, cant remember the model, it was solid with a very good grip, had a good zoom and took good pictures. I would have considered them but I had difficulty finding good reviews and then I got into the idea of getting the Olympus E-PL2.

My previous camera (Olympus C5060, 6ish yrs old) was also what I think were called "prosumer" cameras (fixed lens, but biggish body) - the new camera (mirrorless, can change lenses) is much lighter than my older one and fits in the same camera bag

I really like it but the kit lens is only 3x - a lot of people would prefer to have a long zoom - and if you want to use a long zoom casually, it's got to be a compact or fixed lens camera at any rate.

Re image quality, I read somewhere that the sensor on the average mirrorless camera (I honestly dont know what to call them!) is 6 times the size of the average compact camera. I can really see a difference and I love it. Mainly less noise in shadows, but just better image all round. DSLR would be even better if you're willing to lug the thing around. I'm happy with my compromise.  
But you've really got to look at lenses if you're comparing the two - you can get the sony nex3 (absolutely super image quality) for some ridiculous price like 350 euros but that's with a 35mm equivalent lens (no zoom) - if you want a little zoom (3x I think) you've got to pay at least 100 more, and if you want a better lens (kit lenses are "ok" i.e. not great, not terrible) a better lens could end up costing you more than the camera did.

I like the idea though that if I wanted to I could get another lens for the Olypmus at some stage, rather than having to get another camera. But I might never

6738

Living Room / Re: Win 7, XP mode, & other first install queries

« Last post by tomos on July 19, 2011, 05:05 AM »

Cyberdiva, that's funny, you having the same setup and older software! Good to know of your experience, will see how I get on with a straight-forward install first. Can mess around with VM's later if necessary.

Thanks Chris, Deo, for the tips
(sent you a PM Chris re illustrator)

Carol, it sounds like I could be okay on the xp front, and if not, I can go the VM route.

Ta very much all

6739

Living Room / Re: Win 7, XP mode, & other first install queries

« Last post by tomos on July 18, 2011, 04:43 PM »

thanks Carol & sj
it's a custom built machine, so I'll be doing a clean install myself. Havent got either yet (machine or windows disc) so just thinking ahead yet.

I do have a couple of XP licenses so virtual sounds like the best idea. From what I've heard about windows 7 it's easy enough to install etc.

The last time I installed XP, I used Parted Magic/gparted first to setup the partitions. Will probably just do that with the win install this time.

I've got networkable virtual copies of everything back to DOS v6.22.

-Stoic Joker (July 18, 2011, 04:00 PM)

that sound impressive

6740

Living Room / Win 7, XP mode, & other first install queries

« Last post by tomos on July 18, 2011, 03:49 PM »

New computer arriving probably tomorrow, and I have a few queries as I know SFA about windows 7 and want to install it
Hope you can help!

I'm installing Windows 7 professional. I'm interested in XP mode as I'm still using software from 1999
New machine will have 8GB ram, i5 2400 CPU. So I guess if XP mode is unsuccessfull I can use XP in a virtual whachamacallit (I have no experience yet with "virtual"!). [1] or should I install XP as well and dual boot?

Other aspects are, [2] how large a partition should I use for windows + software (very roughly) I wont be installing games but will be installing some spacehoggers like adobe illustrator.

Wont have to worry about page file till after install, but think I could chance disabling it, will wait see how I get on

[3] What's the story about win 7 recovery partition - and diagnostic tools? would I have to create a recovery partition like this:
http://en.kioskea.ne...a-recovery-partition
not sure if I need or want that, suspect I'd prefer to work with an image made once the software is installed.


I'm sure I'll have more once I get going.
TIA, Tom

6741

Living Room / Re: Post Your Funny Videos Here [NSFW]

« Last post by tomos on July 18, 2011, 02:58 PM »

^
^ howdy f0dder! I enjoyed that episode

40hz, what better response could you possibly give to some reporter telling you that google "respects your privacy".
Good laugh, thanks


[edit] I see there's a Rebecca Black version [/edit]

6742

Living Room / Re: [HELP!!] Win XP reboots sometimes *after* startup [Any Ideas?]

« Last post by tomos on July 17, 2011, 02:47 PM »

I see that the power supply actually has a 5 year guarantee - this is still well under the 4 year mark
I'll probably bring it to the local shop and if they say it's acting up I'll return it


[edit] for my own reference here's a link to thread about installing win 7 on new machine: Win 7, XP mode, & other first install queries [/edit]

6743

General Software Discussion / Re: Acronis Saves the Day

« Last post by tomos on July 17, 2011, 02:14 PM »

Long & short, I was able to pull out a backup from the Acronis non-stop backup.

-Renegade (July 17, 2011, 07:13 AM)

how that work?
I see from their features page:
> Note: requires working hard disk drive

Not quite sure what they mean be that    seeing as that's a basic requirement of all software. Maybe they mean a second HD?
Sounds good anyway, especially if it works...

6744

General Software Discussion / Re: alternative to filehamster?

« Last post by tomos on July 17, 2011, 02:08 PM »

^ I missed that backup every 5 seconds first time around -
I thought the way it worked was to back up when you saved a file. I mean I know it works this way by default but maybe there are other settings...

6745

Living Room / Re: Was Stuxnet Worm Built to Attack Iran's Nuclear Program?

« Last post by tomos on July 17, 2011, 07:59 AM »

New long article on stuxnet:
http://www.wired.com...phered-stuxnet/all/1
"How Digital Detectives Deciphered Stuxnet, the Most Menacing Malware in History"

-mouser (July 16, 2011, 09:35 PM)

great article
-
I have a rebooting computer and one diagnostic tool said it had 'probably' dectected a virus in memory.
Maybe this was my problem all along...

6746

Living Room / Re: Android tablets to rival iPad

« Last post by tomos on July 16, 2011, 03:47 PM »

Someday I think I will own something like this:

(see attachment in previous post)http://usa.asus.com/Eee/Eee_Pad/Eee_Pad_Transformer_TF101/

It's an Android tablet with a dockable keyboard with touchpad. The dock adds more battery life and some USB ports, etc. So it's basically an Android and a netbook combined. Click the image above for more details.

-Deozaan (July 16, 2011, 02:22 PM)

saw that in the junk mail - has an IPS screen too

6747

Living Room / Re: [HELP!!] Win XP reboots sometimes *after* startup [Any Ideas?]

« Last post by tomos on July 16, 2011, 04:04 AM »

If you're going to replace the motherboard/CPU, might as well just get a new machine, hehe.

-JavaJones (July 15, 2011, 07:36 PM)

well, I'm doing that either way (getting new machine), so may as well mess around with this & see can I get it going again. Will have a look at it tomorrow hopefully.
Thanks for the tips Steeladept

6748

Living Room / Re: [HELP!!] Win XP reboots sometimes *after* startup [Any Ideas?]

« Last post by tomos on July 15, 2011, 03:37 PM »

Can anyone recommend a diagnostic boot disk that has a relatively familiar user interface and isnt too complex to create (i.e. not Win PE) - I often find myself lost in the UBCD one (I have no DOS experience)

6749

Living Room / Re: [HELP!!] Win XP reboots sometimes *after* startup [Any Ideas?]

« Last post by tomos on July 15, 2011, 02:39 PM »

Most people/manufacturers skimp on the power supply because they overlook the importance of it.

-Shades (July 15, 2011, 12:42 PM)

I did get a reputable (at the time) brand power supply - Corsair 450w - should have supplied what I needed no problem, but of course that's no guarantee....

6750

Living Room / Re: [HELP!!] Win XP reboots sometimes *after* startup [Any Ideas?]

« Last post by tomos on July 15, 2011, 02:23 PM »

Sorry guys, curiosity's got me...
...
Can you try rerunning that with the drives disconnected and see what happens? Basically strip the mahine down to the bare essentials CPU, Mboard, Memory, power, and video. No modem, sound, or other cards, and no FDD/HDDs to draw power. Just to see if it'll make it far enough into the CPU test to (get a better error message, if any...and) hazzard a guess at a conclusion.

-Stoic Joker (July 15, 2011, 11:59 AM)

Sounds like a good idea - I was going to give it into the shop without harddrives so may as well try it myself first
(but focusing on looking for new pc first, so it may take a little while)