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What is HEIF file format and how to use it?

High Efficiency Image File Format (HEIF) is a container format for individual images and image sequences. The standard covers multimedia files that can also include other media streams, such as timed text, audio, and video. A HEIF image using High-Efficiency Video Coding, HEVC, requires only about half the storage space as the equivalent quality JPEG. HEIF also supports animation and is capable of storing more information than an animated GIF or APNG at a small fraction of the size.

HEIF files are a special case of the ISO Base Media File Format (ISOBMFF, ISO/IEC 14496-12), first defined in 2001 as a shared part of MP4 and JPEG 2000. Introduced in 2015, it was developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) and is defined as Part 12 within the MPEG-H media suite (ISO/IEC 23008-12).

HEIF was adopted by Apple in 2017 with the introduction of iOS 11, and support on other platforms is growing.

HEIF files can store the following types of data:

Image items
Storage of individual images, image properties, and thumbnails.
Image derivations
Derived images enable non-destructive image editing and are created on the fly by the rendering software using editing instructions stored separately in the HEIF file. These instructions (rectangular cropping, rotation by one, two or three quarter-turns, timed graphic overlays, etc.) and images are stored separately in the HEIF file, and describe specific transformations to be applied to the input images. The storage overhead of derived images is small.
Image sequences
Storage of multiple time-related and/or temporally predicted images (like a burst-photo shot or cinemagraph animation), their properties, and thumbnails. Different prediction options can be used in order to exploit the temporal and spatial similarities between the images. Hence, file sizes can be drastically reduced when many images are stored in the same HEIF file.
Auxiliary image items
Storage of image data, such as an alpha plane or a depth map, which complements another image item. These data are not displayed as such but used in various forms to complement another image item.
Image metadata
Storage of EXIF, XMP and similar metadata which accompany the images stored in the HEIF file.

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Software review series:CodeTwo QR Code Desktop

What is a QR Code

QR code or if you want to be more technical Quick Response code is a two-dimensional code made of square dots creating a pattern that can be scanned via QR scanner and then interpreted. Usually, they are present on product packaging, on business cards, websites, etc. When you decode a QR code you can get a link to a website or link to a file or whatever, you can get text, image, email, contact information, etc.

QR Code Desktop Reader & Generator sample code

How to decode a QR Code? You can scan it with your mobile devices like iPhone, iPad, Android or Blackberry equipped with additional software for scanning QR Codes. You might want to check out tools like Barcode Scanner or Red Laser. If you don’t have a mobile device or you need to scan a barcode on your PC, simply use CodeTwo QR Code Desktop Reader & Generator.

How this program works

QR Code reading

CodeTwo QR Code Desktop Reader & Generator is a free tool that will let you quickly scan any QR Code from your screen – be it a part of the website, email, banner, or document. Simply run the program and hit From the screen on the top menu. Your standard mouse cursor will change into a cross to help you make a selection on your screen. Simply select an area with a QR Code and the program will automatically scan it. You can scan QR codes from websites, documents, movie files – you name it. You can also select an image file that contains a QR Code and the program will locate it automatically and decode it. To do that, simply click From file on the top menu of the program and select the desired image from your hard drive. If you have a file copied to your clipboard, or if you make a screenshot of a QR Code, QR Code Desktop Reader & Generator will let you decode those QR codes in one click. Just click From clipboard and the program will automatically locate and decode the QR code for you. That is not all, you can also use your camera to scan QR codes. If you have more than one camera, the program will let you choose which one to use. To use this option, simply click From webcam, and you will be able to scan QR codes with your recording device.

QR Code generation

  • CodeTwo QR Code Desktop Reader & Generator also acts as a QR code generator. Creating QR codes is as easy as reading them. Here is how to generate a QR code:
  • In the top menu, click Generate mode on and enter the text you want to translate into QR Code
  • Choose if you want to copy it to the clipboard or save it in a file. The QR Code will be scaled automatically, but you can resize it in the Size settings tab.
  • The resulting QR code can be used however you like. To name just a few options, you can:
  • Upload it to your blog/website which is especially useful for mobile users.
  • Print it on a poster, providing easily accessible links with more information on your event.
  • Send it in newsletters, or include it in your email signature.

QR Codes in email signatures

Inserting QR codes in email signatures lets mobile users quickly grab your contact details, or provides them with links so that they can get more information on your company or topic you were discussing. You can also provide your recipients with a link to QR Code Desktop Reader & Generator. This will help them easily decode QR codes when they open your email on a PC.

QR code

If you want to include a QR code automatically in email signatures throughout a whole organization, try CodeTwo central email signature management solution. It is a very useful tool, which enables you to unify email signatures on Exchange Server and Office 365 (Microsoft 365).
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IW Unicorn and Scorpion PC Chair cockpits
Recently on errortools.com, we were talking about Cooler Master’s Orb X gaming chair that is an absolute beast and an amazing product. One downside of Orb X is its price. IW product line is somewhat competing with Orb X with a much more affordable price aiming to probably take customer base with lower income but offering them a great experience as well. The first thing you will notice is a different design and somewhat feeling of cheaper quality if you compare it to Orb X but that is quite reasonable considering the chair itself is around 3.5 times cheaper than Orb X which really puts it in range of everyone can get it. But does a much cheaper price means low quality? Let’s explore.

IW Unicorn

IW unicornThe 2021 CLUVENS BRAND newly issued model UNICORN has fully electrical tilting capabilities to 160 degrees, Reading light-two LED & RGB illumination lighting, manual open/close keyboard tray, and armrests. This model is suitable for home and office, and also gaming computer work environments. It offers functions that enable the user to experience unprecedented comfort and quasi total immersion through strategically positioned 1-3 monitors, audio systems, and accessories. The result is a complete computer office, ergonomically optimized, with a minimal footprint that improves overall performance and productivity and health and comfort. Sitting on a chair can help a lot for relieving health problems like lower back pain, herniated discs, sciatica, and neck pain and also enhance performance and viewing effects.

More Luxury and More comfortable:

Equipped with Luxury feeling reclining Gaming chair made with high-density Mold Shaping Foam and superior quality PU leather with very comfortable texture, electrical recline to 128 degrees, and more to 160 degrees for the flat position for the user.

More High-End Setting and more High-tech:

Manual push for open / close of big sized (87x34cm) Self-Balancing Keyboard tray, adjustable with 20cm distance range with Electrical control for the height of roof arm & monitors. Electrical control for reclining Zero Gravity position or even flat position, Manual adjusted Feet pedal for a more comfortable position for feet. Using a High-Quality PU leather Gaming chair that has Heat/Massage functions with it! The IW-Unicorn monitor mounts allow the use of a single monitor up to Ultra-wide 49” or 43” in size or triple monitor setups up to 3 x 29” other monitors configurations are available upon request. (VESA standard)

IW Scorpion

IW scorpionScorpion is basically a premium version of Unicorn with being able to hold more weight, having cup holders on the armrest, etc. The look is also similar with Scorpion being more sinister-looking but overall Steel frame and chair are the same.

Conclusion

Sadly I have not personally experienced neither of these products including Orb X but from all information I have found and looked over, I would say these products are not trying to compete with each other. Although Products are similar in nature, Orb X is aimed at hi end-users focusing on privacy and robustness while IW is filling the gap of users that would like an advanced chair but are not willing or ready to shell hi amount of money for it offering advanced chairs with advanced features in somewhat affordable price.
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Removing FlightSearchApp from your computer

FlightSearchApp is a browser extension for Google Chrome. This extension claims to be a simple tool to provide updates regarding flight arrivals, flight departures, flight tracking, and access to time zone converters. However, it is a potentially unwanted program which is also known as a browser hijacker.

This extension hijacks your browser home page and search engine changing it to MyWay. While this extension is active you will see additional ads, sponsored links, and sometimes even pop-up ads appearing through your browsing sessions. It also keeps track of your browsing data, recording your browsing activity, website visits, clicks, and potentially personal information. It also adds a toolbar to the browser header which can lag the browser while also reducing usable screen size.

Several anti-virus scanners have marked this extension as a Browser Hijacker, and is therefore not recommended to keep on your computer.

About Browser Hijackers

Browser hijacking is regarded as the internet’s constant risk that targets web browsers. It is a kind of malicious software that alters your web browser’s configuration settings so that you are redirected to websites or webpages that you had no intention of visiting. Basically, nearly all browser hijackers are made for marketing or advertising purposes. The idea would be to force users to visit particular websites which are looking to improve their visitor traffic and produce higher ad earnings. It might appear naive, but the majority of such sites are not legitimate and will pose a serious threat to your on-line safety. Some browser hijackers are designed to make certain modifications beyond the web browsers, like changing entries in the computer registry and allowing other malware to further damage your PC.

How one can know whether the browser is hijacked?

Symptoms that your browser is hi-jacked include: 1. the browser’s homepage is changed 2. you see new unwanted favorites or bookmarks added, typically directed to ad-filled or pornography websites 3. The default search page of your web browser is altered 4. unsolicited new toolbars are added to your web browser 5. many pop-up ads show up and/or your browser pop-up blocker is disabled 6. your web browser has become unstable or starts running slowly 7. You can’t access particular websites, in particular anti-virus sites.

How it infects your PC

Browser hijackers can get into a computer by some means or other, for instance via file sharing, downloads, and email too. They are generally included with toolbars, add-ons, BHO, plugins or browser extensions. Some browser hijackers spread in user’s computer systems using a deceptive software distribution technique known as “bundling” (usually through freeware and shareware). Browser hijackers may record user keystrokes to collect potentially valuable information that leads to privacy issues, cause instability on computers, significantly disrupt user’s browsing experience, and finally slow down the computer to a point where it will become unusable.

Browser hijacker removal tips

Some types of browser hijackers can be quickly removed from your PC by uninstalling malicious programs or any other recently installed freeware. At times, it can be a challenging task to identify and eliminate the malicious component since the associated file could be running as part of the operating system process. On top of that, manual removal expects you to execute many time-consuming and intricate procedures that are very hard to carry out for new computer users. You might opt for automatic browser hijacker removal methods by just installing and running an efficient anti-malware program. One of the recommended tools for fixing browser hijacker infections is SafeBytes Anti-Malware. It assists you eliminate any pre-existing malicious software on your system and provides you real-time monitoring and protection against new threats. Utilize a system optimizer along with your anti-malware to fix various registry issues, remove computer vulnerabilities, and enhance your computer's overall performance.

Virus Blocking Internet And All Anti-Malware Software? Do This!

Every malware is bad and the degree of the damage will differ greatly with regards to the type of infection. Some malware is meant to interfere with or prevent things that you wish to do on your personal computer. It may not allow you to download anything from the net or prevent you from accessing a few or all of the websites, particularly the anti-malware websites. If you’re reading this now, you have perhaps realized that a malware infection is the real cause of your blocked internet traffic. So how to proceed if you want to download and install an anti-malware program like Safebytes? There are some solutions you could try to get around with this issue.

Download the application in Safe Mode with Networking

Safe Mode is a unique, simplified version of Windows in which just bare minimum services are loaded to prevent malware and other troublesome applications from loading. If the malware is set to load immediately when PC starts, switching into this mode can prevent it from doing so. To start the computer into Safe Mode, hit the “F8” key on your keyboard just before the Windows boot screen shows up; Or after normal Windows boot up, run MSConfig, check “Safe Boot” under Boot tab, and click Apply. Once you are in Safe Mode, you can attempt to download and install your antivirus program without the hindrance of the virus. After installation, run the malware scanner to remove standard infections.

Utilize an alternate web browser to download an anti-malware program

Some malware mainly targets specific browsers. If this is your situation, use another internet browser as it could circumvent the malware. The ideal solution to overcome this issue is to opt for a browser that is well known for its security measures. Firefox contains built-in Phishing and Malware Protection to help keep you secure online.

Run anti-virus from your pen drive

Another solution is to save and run an antivirus software program completely from a USB drive. Follow these steps to run the antivirus on the affected computer system. 1) Download the anti-malware software on a virus-free PC. 2) Plug the Thumb drive into the uninfected computer. 3) Double click on the downloaded file to open the installation wizard. 4) Select the USB stick as the location for saving the software file. Do as instructed on the computer screen to finish off the installation process. 5) Transfer the flash drive from the clean PC to the infected PC. 6) Double-click the anti-malware software EXE file on the USB flash drive. 7) Hit the “Scan” button to run a full system scan and remove malware automatically.

Features and Benefits of SafeBytes Anti-Malware

In order to protect your computer or laptop from many different internet-based threats, it is important to install anti-malware software on your computer. But with countless numbers of anti-malware companies out there, these days it is tough to decide which one you should buy for your PC. Some of them do a good job in getting rid of malware threats while some will damage your PC by themselves. When looking for an anti-malware tool, purchase one which gives dependable, efficient, and comprehensive protection against all known viruses and malware. Among few good programs, SafeBytes Anti-Malware is the highly recommended software program for the security-conscious user. SafeBytes anti-malware is a trustworthy tool that not only secures your system permanently but is also extremely easy to use for people of all ability levels. Through its cutting-edge technology, this software protects your personal computer against infections caused by different kinds of malware and other threats, including spyware, adware, viruses, worms, trojans, keyloggers, potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), and ransomware. SafeBytes anti-malware provides an array of enhanced features that sets it aside from all others. The following are a few of the great ones: World-class AntiMalware Protection: This deep-cleaning anti-malware application goes much deeper than most antivirus tools to clean out your PC. Its critically acclaimed virus engine finds and disables hard-to-remove malware that hides deep inside your computer. Real-time Threat Response: SafeBytes offers completely hands-free real-time protection and is set to check, block and get rid of all computer threats at its first encounter. It will regularly monitor your pc for hacker activity and also gives end-users sophisticated firewall protection. Safe Web Browsing: SafeBytes checks the links present on a webpage for possible threats and informs you whether the site is safe to visit or not, through its unique safety rating system. “Fast Scan” Features: Safebytes AntiMalware, with its advanced scanning engine, gives ultra fast scanning which can quickly target any active online threat. Minimal CPU Usage: SafeBytes is really a lightweight application. It use up a very small amount of processing power as it operates in the background so you are free to use your Windows-based PC the way you really want. 24/7 Online Support: You may get absolutely free 24/7 technical support from their IT experts on any product queries or computer security concerns. All in all, SafeBytes Anti-Malware is a solid program since it has plenty of features and can identify and eliminate any potential threats. Once you’ve downloaded and installed SafeBytes Anti-Malware, you no longer have to bother about malware or any other security concerns. If you’re searching for the absolute best malware removal application out there, and if you don’t mind spending some money for it, opt for SafeBytes Anti-Malware.

Technical Details and Manual Removal (Advanced Users)

If you want to manually get rid of FlightSearchApp without using an automated tool, it may be possible to do so by deleting the application from the Microsoft Windows Add/Remove Programs menu, or in cases of web browser plug-ins, going to the browser’s AddOn/Extension manager and uninstalling it. You may even want to reset your home page and search providers, as well as delete temporary files, browsing history, and cookies. Lastly, check your hard disk for all of the following and clean your computer registry manually to get rid of leftover application entries after uninstalls. Please remember that only experienced computer users should try to manually edit the registry because incorrect file removal results in a serious problem or even a PC crash. In addition, some malware is capable of replicating itself or preventing deletion. Doing this in Safe Mode is advised.
Files: %PROGRAMFILES(x86)%\FlightSearch_fo %PROGRAMFILES%\FlightSearch_fo %UserProfile%\Local Settings\Application Data\FlightSearchTooltab %LOCALAPPDATA%\FlightSearchTooltab Registry: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\msmpeng.exe Debugger = svchost.exe HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\msseces.exe Debugger = svchost.exe HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\free.flightsearchapp.com HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet Settings WarnOnHTTPSToHTTPRedirect = 0 HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet Settings WarnOnHTTPSToHTTPRedirect = 0 HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\SystemRestore DisableSR = 1 HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\ekrn.exe Debugger = svchost.exe HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\msascui.exe Debugger = svchost.exe HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run 3948550101 HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run xas HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\free.flightsearchapp.com
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Change Legacy to UEFI without reinstalling
There are some new generation motherboards for laptops and PCs that bring in support for both the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface or UEFI as well as the Basic Input Output System or BIOS. The main advantage of UEFI over the traditional BIOS is the fact that UEFI supports a hard drive that has a capacity of more than 2 terabytes. However, the disadvantage of UEFI is that it only supports the x64 Windows operating system versions and that the hard drive is supposed to use the GPT structure. So if your PC is compatible with and supports UEFI and you want to change from Legacy to UEFI, then you’ve come to the right place as this post will guide you on how you can exactly do that without having to reinstall it. There are two ways to change Legacy to UEFI. You can convert MBR to GPT using either the built-in utilities in Windows or using the Recovery Environment. Before you proceed, make sure that your computer fulfills the following prerequisites:
  • Your PC’s motherboard should support both Legacy and UEFI.
  • Your PC should be running at least the 1703 Windows 10 version or newer on an MBR partition.
Once you’ve made sure that your computer covers the aforementioned prerequisites, refer to the given options below.

Option 1 – Convert MBR to GPT via Windows built-in utilities

  • In the Windows Search box, type “command prompt” and from the search results that appear, right-click on Command Prompt and select the “Run as administrator” option.
  • After that, execute this command: exe /convert /allowfullOS
  • Now, wait until the process is completed since you can track its process on your screen.
  • Once it’s done, go to Settings > Update & Security > Advanced Startup options and from there, click on Restart Now. This will restart your computer and give you advanced options.
  • Next, select Troubleshoot > Advanced Options where you will see further options including System Restore, Startup Repair, Go back to the previous version, Command Prompt, System Image Recovery, and UEFI Firmware Settings.
  • Now select the UEFI Firmware Settings. This will take you to the BIOS. Boot Mode is typically available under Boot > Boot Configuration. Once you’re there, set it to UEFI and then save the changes you’ve made. After that, your computer will restart.

Option 2 – Convert MBR to GPT via the Recovery Environment

  • When the message appears on your screen while running Windows Setup, you need to tap the Shift + F10 keys to open Command Prompt.
  • Make sure to run Command Prompt as admin and then execute this command: exe /convert
  • After that, wait until the process is completed. When it’s done, you have to go to the BIOS just like in the first given option above.
  • As mentioned, you can usually find the Boot Mode under Boot > Boot Configuration. Once you’re there, set it to UEFI.
  • Now save the changes made and exit as your computer will restart.
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Fix cannot load the Device Driver Code 38
Each you connect time external devices like scanners, printers, and the likes to a Windows 10 computer, the device either pushes the drivers through the USB or any other port, or you are expected to install the drivers through external media. In both cases, the driver will be loaded into the system, allowing you to use the device. However, it doesn’t always go smoothly as you could encounter some errors like the “Windows cannot load the Device Driver for this hardware because a previous instance of the Device Driver is still in memory ( Code 38 )”. If you encounter such an error in the Device Manager, then this means that a previous version of the device driver is still in memory and that each time the device is used, that previous version is loaded into memory and then unloaded which triggers the “Windows cannot load the Device Driver for this hardware because a previous instance of the Device Driver is still in memory (Code 38)” error. This kind of error occurs if the operating system loads the unwanted driver or if it fails to unload the driver. It could be that there is an obsolete version of the driver that’s still installed in the system or it could also be that you need to update your USB drivers as they could be outdated or the problem could also be due to some third party program that is interfering with the installation. Whatever the cause is, here are some suggestions you can check out to resolve the problem.

Option 1 – Uninstall previously installed drivers and reinstall their latest working version from the manufacturer’s website

The first thing you can do is to uninstall the drivers that are currently installed on your computer and then reinstall their latest working versions from their official sites. This kind of error is commonly encountered while loading drivers for scanners and printers. This is due to the fact that their drivers and software come along with a package which is usually in external media like CD or DVD. So when you install the software package, there’s a possibility that a newer version has been launched by its manufacturer. When that happens, you have to uninstall the previously installed driver package and then download the drivers from the manufacturer’s website and install them.

Option 2 – Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter

  • The first thing you need to do is click on Start and then on the gear-like icon to pull up the window for Settings.
  • After opening Settings, look for the Update and Security option and select it.
  • From there, go to the Troubleshoot option located on the left-hand side of the list.
  • Next, select Hardware and Devices from the list and open the Troubleshooter and run it. Once it is doing its job, wait for it to complete the process and then restart the system.
  • After the system restarts, check if the problem’s now fixed. If not, refer to the next option given below.

Option 3 – Update or reinstall the Universal Serial Bus Controller driver

Since it could be a driver issue, you can try to update or reinstall the Universal Serial Bus Controller drivers using the Device Manager. Refer to the following steps:
  • First, click the Start button and type “device manager”.
  • Then click on the “Device Manager” from the search results to open it.
  • From there, look for the “Universal Serial Bus controllers” option and then right-click on each one of the USB drivers and select the Update Driver from the menu.
Note: If it is a regular USB drive, then it will be listed as a USB Mass Storage Device but if you have a USB 3.0 device, then look for a USB 3.0 Extensible Host Controller.
  • Restart your PC and then click the “Search automatically for updated driver software” option.
Note: If updating the USB Controller drivers didn’t work, you can try to reinstall them instead.

Option 4 – Restart your computer in a Clean Boot State

If the first three given options didn’t work and you still see the error when you connect external devices, you can try putting your computer in a Clean Boot State and then try connecting them again.
  • Log onto your PC as an administrator.
  • Type in MSConfig in the Start Search to open the System Configuration utility.
  • From there, go to the General tab and click “Selective startup”.
  • Clear the “Load Startup items” check box and make sure that the “Load System Services” and “Use Original boot configuration” options are checked.
  • Next, click the Services tab and select the “Hide All Microsoft Services” check box.
  • Click Disable all.
  • Click on Apply/OK and restart your PC. (This will put your PC into a Clean Boot State. And configure Windows to use the usual startup, just simply undo the changes.)
  • Now try to connect the external devices and check if the error is now gone.
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Restore, Minimize and Close are not working
Recently, a number of users reported not being able to use the Restore, Minimize and Close buttons on their Windows 10 computers. This kind of issue can be quite annoying as you won’t be able to use your computer properly, especially when you navigate between programs and windows. In such cases, the buttons on the right side of the title bar won’t respond to any inputs which could be caused by a number of factors such as different input modes, corrupted system files, and many more. If you are one of the users who are currently facing this problem, worry not for this post will guide you on what you can do to resolve it. There are several potential fixes you can check out to fix the issue. You can try to check if Tablet Mode is enabled and if it is, you have to disable it. You could also boot your computer in a Clean Boot State to check if a third-party program is the one that’s causing the problem. In addition, you could also reinstall the program where you experience the problem or run built-in utilities like System File Checker and DISM tool.

Option 1 – Make sure that you are not in Tablet Mode

Since Windows 10 is designed to work on both desktop and mobile devices, it could be that your computer has slipped into Tablet Mode which explains why you’re not seeing the Taskbar. To check if your computer is really in Tablet Mode, follow these steps:
  • Go to the Start menu and select Settings.
  • Next, select the System setting and from the left pane select the Tablet Mode.
  • From there, make sure that the buttons next to the options given below are set to the off position:
    • Hide app icons on the taskbar in tablet mode
    • Automatically hide the taskbar in tablet mode

Option 2 – Put your computer in a Clean Boot State

As pointed out, it is possible that some third-party program or service is the one that’s behind the problem. To isolate this possibility and to identify the culprit, you have to put your computer into a Clean Boot State. To do so, follow the steps below.
  • Log onto your PC as an administrator.
  • Type in MSConfig in the Start Search to open the System Configuration utility.
  • From there, go to the General tab and click “Selective startup”.
  • Clear the “Load Startup items” check box and make sure that the “Load System Services” and “Use Original boot configuration” options are checked.
  • Next, click the Services tab and select the “Hide All Microsoft Services” check box.
  • Click Disable all.
  • Click on Apply/OK and restart your PC. (This will put your PC into a Clean Boot State. And configure Windows to use the usual startup, just simply undo the changes.)
  • Once your computer is in a Clean Boot State, try to open the program where the problem occurred.

Option 3 – Try reinstalling the program

If the first two options didn’t work, then you might want to consider uninstalling the program and then install it back with its latest version. This should resolve the problem.

Option 4 – Try to run System File Checker

System File Checker or SFC is a built-in command utility that helps in restoring corrupted files as well as missing files. It replaces bad and corrupted system files to good system files that might be the cause why the Restore, Minimize and Close buttons don’t work. To run the SFC command, follow the steps given below.
  • Type “cmd” in the Start search and then right-click on the appropriate search result.
  • Next, select “Run as administrator” to open Command Prompt with admin privileges.
  • After opening Command Prompt, type in sfc /scannow
The command will start a system scan which will take a few whiles before it finishes. Once it’s done, you could get the following results:
  1. Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations.
  2. Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files and successfully repaired them.
  3. Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files but was unable to fix some of them.
  • Now restart your computer and see if the problem is fixed or not.

Option 5 – Run the DISM tool

You can try running the Deployment Imaging and Servicing Management or DISM tool to fix the problem. Using this built-in tool, you have various options such as the “/ScanHealth”, “/CheckHealth”, and “/RestoreHealth”.
  • Open the Command Prompt with admin privileges.
  • Then type in the following commands and make sure to hit Enter right after you type each one of them:
    • Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
    • Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
    • exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
  • Do not close the window if the process takes a while as it will probably take a few minutes to finish. Once it’s done, restart your computer.
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How to fix Error Code 52

Error Code 52 – What is it?

Error Code 52 is a device driver problem that users experience on any Windows 2000 operating system and later Windows systems.

The error occurs when the operating system prevents the peripheral device connected to the computer from functioning properly and is usually displayed by the following message:

“Windows cannot verify the digital signature for the drivers required for this device. A recent hardware or software change might have installed a file that is signed incorrectly or damaged, or that might be malicious software from an unknown source. (Code 52)”

Solution

driverfix boxError Causes

Error Code 52 is triggered by the following factors:

  • An incomplete program uninstallation
  • An incomplete program installation
  • Hardware is not removed properly
  • System recovery from viruses
  • An improper system shut down

Further Information and Manual Repair

Error Code 52 can pose severe risks to the overall health of your PC and any negligence in fixing it can be disastrous for your computer.

However, since the error code is like other device driver errors, resolving the error is relatively straightforward. Here are a few methods to resolve the error code.

Method 1 – Use System Restore

You can use system restore to roll back the system to a time when there was no error to eliminate the problem. Here is how you can use it:

  1. Log in using an Administrator account
  2. Click ‘Start’ button and select All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > System Restore
  3. Click ‘Restore my computer to an earlier time’ and click ‘Next’
  4. Select the last Windows restore point from the ‘On this list, click a restore point’ list, and click ‘Next’
  5. Click ‘Next’ on the confirmation window to proceed
  6. Restart your PC after restoration is complete

By restoring the system via a last saved system checkpoint, you can obtain undamaged Windows system registry files that can help avert the error code.

Method 2 – Run the Troubleshooting Wizard

If restarting your PC does not help, you will have to find the exact nature of the problem by running the troubleshooting wizard for the device and address the problem accordingly. To do this, proceed with the following steps:

  1. Run Device Manager on your PC
  2. Click on the program under the installed programs that are creating problems for you
  3. Click on the ‘General’ Tab
  4. Click ‘Troubleshoot’
  5. Upon opening, the Troubleshooting Wizard will ask a series of questions regarding the error. Answer the questions and follow its directions for solving the error code.

After following the directions of the Troubleshooting wizard, make sure to restart your PC for the changes to take effect. Then check if your device is still causing problems.

Method 3 – Manually uninstall and reinstall the device driver

Uninstalling and then reinstalling the device driver can help solve the error.

You can do this by firstly logging in as Administrator and open Device Manager. Select the device that is causing the problem and double click it and make sure that the peripheral is connected properly to the PC.

Upon opening, click on the ‘Driver’ tab and then select ‘Update Driver’. Make sure to refer to the system documentation that you received with your PC or computer to check for the motherboard details and driver specifics.

Method 4 – Use software to automatically download the driver

Manually uninstalling and reinstalling the driver will do the trick, however, it may be time-consuming especially when you would have to resort to your hardware user manual.

Therefore, using a program such as DriverFIX can save you a lot of time and frustration in having your device work properly on your computer.

DriverFIX, with its user-friendly approach to help you fix your PC issues, comes with an integrated database that detects which drivers you need to reconfigure within just a few seconds and downloads it automatically.

It further ensures that your drivers are installed in their entirety leaving no room for any incomplete files to remain that create Error Code 52.

It also has the added advantage of being able to backup and restores your files should there be the slightest possibility of system file damage. DriverFIX is the answer to fixing your PC error codes accurately and quickly.

Click here to download DriverFIX to fix Error Code 52 quickly and effectively!

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Disable WEB camera with PowerShell in Windows
Windows PowerShell is a powerful tool inside the Windows environment often overlooked by typical users which is a great mistake since it can offer a large array of functionality and usability and if used well can offer a unique working experience. Today we will be using PowerShell to turn the WEB camera off so it can not be accessed, completely disabling it for use. You might want to do this for security reasons or just want to learn few new things. Whatever your reason might be, I am welcoming you to this tutorial and please do keep reading.

Finding device ID

In order to disable the WEB camera first thing we need to do is to find a matching device ID. We will find this value inside the device manager, so press ⊞ WINDOWS + X to open the secret menu. keyboard with windows and x markedIn the menu choose device manager and click on it. Windows menu device managerWhen the device manager opens, expand the Imaging devices or Cameras section. Right-click Integrated Camera or the primary webcam, and click Properties. Go to the Details tab. Under the Property section, click to select Matching device ID from the drop-down. Right-click the value and select Copy camera device managerThe next step is to download and install Windows Driver Kit (WDK)

PowerShell script

Create and run a PowerShell script with the following parameters/values to disable the camera. Substitute the <FOLDER> placeholder with the actual name of the folder where your copy of Devcon is residing
$id = (Get-CimInstance Win32_PnPEntity |

where caption -match '<PRIMARY CAMERA>').pnpDeviceID

$ppid = "{0}{1}" -f '@',$id

Set-Location c:\<FOLDER>

Devcon status $ppid

Devcon disable $ppid

Devcon status $ppid
To enable the camera device, run the command below in PowerShell:
devcon enable $ppid
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Regular vs Gaming mouse comparison

You have probably heard a lot of good things about gaming mice, how they are better feeling, better in any way possible and it is all true, everything you heard is actually true, they are superior in any way to a regular mouse but with one big disadvantage, and that would be the price. While you can find a regular mouse for pocket change, a gaming mouse is in comparison very expensive even for entry-level ones.

gaming mouse

In this article we will explore all advantages and compare it with the regular one so you can come up with your own conclusion about do you really need one for yourself or if you are fine with regular.

Price

As stated price is one factor that does not favor gaming mice. Regular mouse for a personal computer goes around 10 or 20 USD, while entry-level in gaming one will be 40 USD and can go up to 250 USD, this large gap in price is usually determining factor why people pick up regular one. If you are on a really tight budget go for the regular one, but if you can afford a gaming one get it without second thoughts.

Software

This is where you will see the big difference between mice. Regular ones when connected are recognized and the driver is automatically installed and you can use it, same goes with gaming ones but with one big difference, you have an option to install additional manufacturers' software specially tailored for your mouse. In the application, you will be able to access some features that are specific to the mouse model that you could not set in typical Windows mouse properties. Beside more options software can also have features like setting your profiles and saving them to be recalled when you need them on the fly.

Sensitivity of mouse

The sensitivity of the mouse is measured in dots per one inch or short DPI, this is directly shown on your screen by how fast your mouse can move, higher sensitivity means your mouse will move faster across the screen and lower means it will move slower. All gaming mice come with buttons and settings that will allow you to change DPI on the fly and you can choose precise DPI settings in the software.

The regular mouse comes with DPI around 800 and goes to 1200 typically and does not have usually the option to change this while gaming mice start at 400 and can go as high as 26000 with the option to change it. Some regular mice can have only 1 option of DPI, usually very cheap ones.

Polling rates in mice

Pooling rate is the measurement of how often your mouse reports where it is positioned on the computer. The higher the pooling rate, the more responsive your mouse will be and vice versa. It is measured in hertz (Hz) and regular mice have them around 125Hz that is enough if you are using a computer for office, internet, and mail work.

If you are working in design or gaming you will need more than 125Hz polling rate, luckily gaming mice come with a minimum of 500Hz as an entry point and some hi-end models are going as far as 8000Hz. This very high pooling rate will get some extra load on your CPU but the mouse itself will be maximally responsive and will respond even to the smallest moves.

Ergonomics

Regular mice are well just mice, they are typical shape and size, gaming mice are made with ergonomics in mind. How they are made for extensive daily use of several hours per day they are constructed in a way to offer a pleasant and pain-free experience.

If you work on a computer for long periods of time consider gaming an ergonomic mouse since it will take the strain from hands and place them in a more natural position.

Macro keys

Gaming mice most of the time come with more keys compared with regular ones and good thing is that via its software you can tie certain actions to these extra keys making work or gaming more pleasant and quicker.

Components and material quality

In order to make regular mice more affordable and cheaper materials and quality of components had to suffer. Gaming mice have millions of guaranteed clicks by companies that make them before they break and regular ones usually do not guarantee a single one. This is due of course quality of materials that have been used in constructing these devices.

In the long term, if you use a gaming mouse for typical daily tasks it will outlive your regular one and on the side offer you more pleasant and responsive use along the way.

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Fix Windows Update Error 0x8007001f – 0x20006
As you know, Microsoft’s Windows Media Creation Tool is a useful tool that helps you download and install the latest version of the Windows 10 operating system. However, there are times when it could encounter some problems during the update process. One of these programs is the following error message:
“0x8007001F-0x20006, The installation failed in the SAFE_OS phase with an error during REPLICATE_OC operation.”
The error pointed out the “Safe OS phase”. It is the phase that’s initiated to install all the required Windows Updates. Thus, the possible cause for this error could have something to do with an interrupted download, internet connection, and many more. Although this error could be caused by a lot of factors, fixing it shouldn’t be that hard. You can try to reset the Windows Update Components or delete the Windows Update cache. You could also disable both the Firewall and your antivirus program temporarily or run the Windows Update in a Clean Boot state, as well as run the Windows Update troubleshooter. To get started troubleshooting the error, follow each one of the suggestions provided below.

Option 1 – Try to reset the Windows Update components

Resetting the Windows Update components could help you resolve the Windows Update error 0x8007001f – 0x20006. How? Refer to the following steps:
  • Open Command Prompt with admin privileges.
  • After that, type each one of the following commands and hit Enter after you key in one after the other.
    • net stop wuauserv
    • net stop cryptsvc
    • net stop bits
    • net stop msiserver
Note: The commands you entered will stop the Windows Update components such as Windows Update service, Cryptographic services, BITS, and MSI Installer.
  • After disabling WU components, you need to rename both the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders. To do that, type each one of the following commands below, and don’t forget to hit Enter after you type one command after the other.
    • ren C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
    • ren C:WindowsSystem32catroot2 Catroot2.old
  • Now, restart the services you’ve stopped by entering another series of commands. Don’t forget to hit Enter after you key in one command after the other.
    • net start wuauserv
    • net start cryptsvc
    • net start bits
    • net start msiserver
  • Exit Command Prompt and then restart your computer.

Option 2 – Try to delete the Windows Update Cache

You might also want to delete the Windows Update cache since there are times when existing corrupt or incomplete Windows Update files can cause some problems in downloading and installing Windows Updates. To achieve this, simply delete the “$Windows.~BT” & “$Windows.~WS” folders in your computer. Once you’re done, try to run Windows Update again and see if the error is now fixed.

Option 3 – Try to temporarily disable anti-virus and Windows Defender Firewall

As mentioned, the error could be due to the antivirus program or the Windows Defender Firewall installed on your computer. Thus, disabling them or any security software installed in your computer is always a good idea you can try when you’re not able to access the shared drive on your computer. There are times when you encounter problems like error 0x8007001f – 0x20006 due to interference of antivirus or security programs. Thus, you have to disable both your antivirus program and Windows Defender Firewall for the meantime and check if it fixes the error or not

Option 4 – Run the Windows Update in a Clean Boot State

It is possible that some third-party application is the one that’s causing the problem so it’s best if you put your computer in a Clean Boot state. During this state, you can start the system with a minimum number of drivers and startup programs that will surely help you in isolating the root cause of the issue.
  • Log onto your PC as an administrator.
  • Type in MSConfig in the Start Search to open the System Configuration utility.
  • From there, go to the General tab and click “Selective startup”.
  • Clear the “Load Startup items” check box and make sure that the “Load System Services” and “Use Original boot configuration” options are checked.
  • Next, click the Services tab and select the “Hide All Microsoft Services” check box.
  • Click Disable all.
  • Click on Apply/OK and restart your PC. (This will put your PC into a Clean Boot State. And configure Windows to use the usual startup, just simply undo the changes.)
  • After that, try to run Windows Update again.
Note: If you are able to install the app without any trouble at all then it means that the error is caused by some third-party application on your computer. You need to look for the culprit and uninstall it once you found it.

Option 5 – Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

You might also want to run the Windows Update Troubleshooter as it could also help in fixing error 0x8007001f – 0x20006. To run it, go to Settings and then select Troubleshoot from the options. From there, click on Windows Update and then click the “Run the troubleshooter” button. After that, follow the next on-screen instructions and you should be good to go.
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