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What is the Computer Club Help Center?

The Help Center is a service provided by Sun City residents to members of the Computer Club. The volunteers of the Help Center offer assistance with computer “problems”.

What is a computer problem?

The help center volunteers, attempt to provide assistance for many computer devices. There are volunteers that are willing to help with cell phones, tablets, PC's, Apple products, printers and network equipment. Assistance with phones or tablets is typically a sofware or “operator” issue. Assistance with PC's or Apple's can involve software, hardware, networking or the “operator”. It is probable that one of the Help Center volunteers can help resolve or define the problem. If a problem is not resolved, we hope to define solutions that can be provided by local commercial services.

How to get help

The Help Center provides help in the Computer Club Annex or in your home. Bringing your device to the Help Center is preferred? Why? The Help Center typically has multiple volunteers. Volunteers are able to consult with other volunteers in the Help Center. Networking and printer problems frequently require a home visit. For home support it is necessary to come to the Help Center to register the support request. This wiki contains information that might lead you to a solution. If you can read this page you might try asking a question or describing your problem in the “discussion” section at the bottom of this page .

What you should bring to the Help Center

If your problem is with a portable device (laptop, tablet, phone) or an all-in-one , bring the device and its power supply. For a desktop PC, the Help Center can provide a power cord, monitor, keyboard and mouse.

Satisfaction is not guaranteed, but....

The goal of the volunteers is to provide assistance that resolves your problem or leads to the eventual solution. Most of the time, the volunteers are successful. When we are not, please remember: The Help Center is staffed by Sun City volunteers who are sharing their time and knowledge with the intent of helping a neighbor.

Discussion

Joe Cerami, 603 Tall Riders Dr, 2024/02/24 14:07

Hi, Is there help for learning how to copy CDs (audio) to a thumb drive? The audio CDs are for a Spanish language class. Thanks, Joe Cerami

Charlotte French, 2024/02/05 15:55

Are you able to transfer a floppy disk drive from my old computer to a newer computer - desktop towers both? I need a floppy drive for my sewing machine software. The old computer does not have enough RAM to run it like I need to. I will pay dues for this year if you can help with this. I've joined Computer Club several previous years. The “newer computer” has been completely stripped other than Windows still installed.

carroll wharton, 2024/01/26 21:27

Is there anyone in the computer club that can help me to get started selling on Ebay? Thanks, Carroll

Rob Berthold, 2023/11/21 19:37

I have an old VHS DVD player that I wish to dispose of. Can you recommend a place that recycles old electronics, or should I just put in my trash can?

Thanks.

Rob Berthold

john zimmerling, 2023/10/23 20:09

have 9-year-old HP All in one. Needs up dates and will not let me on my email and will not download some sites like google maps and seabourn.com. Fixable or just get a new computer?

john ZIMMERLING, 2023/10/23 20:04

9 year old HP All in One, not sure what all it needs or is it worth fixing. Will not let me get on Email (signs me out as soon as it signs me in. Will not allow access to certain website such as google maps. I think it needs a good cleaning out and maybe software update. How so I schedule that?

Robert McNamer, 2023/10/04 21:11

I have a Cannon PIXMA MX492 printer I would like to donate if anyone is in need. The printer works fine but I could not get it to reconnect to my WIFI after replacing my internet gateway from TMobile and I didn't have the correct cable to direct connect it to my laptop. I bought another printer and before I throw it away, I thought I would try to see if the computer club would want it or anyone else.

Regards,

Bob McNamer

Tim Hung, 2023/06/05 14:12

Bold TextBold TextI have a Optimum leased UBEE modem / router. I am trying to hook up a new printer to my home wifi network. When trying to “add a printer” from my Windows 10 PC, it can't find it. I checked, my PC has a totally different IPV4 address than my PC. I also checked my Android phone's IP address to the same UBEE SSID, it has a totally different IPV4 address. I am suspecting since it's a Optimum controlled modem/router, it provides various IPV4 addresses. Can someone help me understand if it's the problem before I buy my own modem/router. I can use the printer via USB or Wifi Direct but not via the same home Wifi netowrk.

Reginald (Reg) Bessmer, 2023/06/02 15:53

I am an Apple user w/many devices. I recently bought a iPad Air v.5 and when I turned it on, it “set-up/paired??” automatically by my iPhone 13. Except for including my gmail account. When I tried to manually include my gmail account, it asked for my password, but would NOT accept when I entered it, “suggesting” I reset my gmail password. I am reluctant to do that since I have several other Apple devices (including my iPhone 13 & iMac) that successfully use my gmail account.How can I include my gmail account on my iPad Air?

John Steele, 2023/05/23 16:46

I'm trying to use a formula in Excel to calculate driving distance from one address to another. Currently I cut & paste the addresses into Google Maps Directions but that's slow & cumbersome. The research I've done says I need an API Key from Google to do this. That process is confusing with many options. Does anyone here have any experience with this?

Thanks,

John

k95 masks, 2023/05/03 02:29

Hello,

Thank you for your interest in the Computer Club. We are a group of enthusiasts who enjoy learning and sharing about various topics related to computers and technology. We have regular meetings, workshops, newsletters, and a help center where you can get assistance from our volunteers. You can find more information about us on our website: https://sctxcompclub.net/doku.php?id=computerclub:start

If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to contact us. We hope to see you soon at one of our events.

Sincerely, Computer Club

k95 masks, 2023/05/03 02:25

Hello,

Thank you for your interest in the Computer Club. We are a group of enthusiasts who enjoy learning and sharing about various topics related to computers and technology. We have regular meetings, workshops, newsletters, and a help center where you can get assistance from our volunteers. You can find more information about us on our website: https://sctxcompclub.net/doku.php?id=computerclub:start

If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to contact us. We hope to see you soon at one of our events.

Sincerely, Computer Club

Tim May, 2023/04/18 18:48

I cannot open the club files document that addresses T-Mobile Home Internet, I can open other club file documents. Can someone forward that document to me?

Warren, 2023/02/12 18:52

How do I make an appointment at the Help Center? I get the calendar each time. I became a member 3/11/23. Thanks

Linda Sykes, 2022/10/24 03:41

I purchased a new laptop in July. When Geek Squad transferred info from old to new computer, they were not able to move my Quicken or Excel files, nor all my pictures. I have the hard drive from the old computer. Is there anyone who can help me recover these files and put on my new computer? I have checked the cloud and the files are not there. Quicken support tells me they should be on the hard drive. Thank you

Kay Walker, 2022/09/28 20:47

I am unable to register for a class because when I try, this site insists my name is Laurence (name of my husband). When I try to delete his name and replace it with mine nothing happens. We are both members as of September 27, 2022. His email address is klwalker@suddenlink.net. We are both on the list of members.

J.R. (Randy) Ramseur, 2022/04/29 03:09
 My PC has had several repair services, last in 2020, through the Computer Club.  The PC has a Mac10 system. It is corrupted and needs to be cleaned. Also it has no audio, but two speakers. Power cable and speakers accompany the PC.
 I can bring this hardware tomorrow, Friday, 5/29/, between 9AM and 11:30AM. Alternately, I can come to the Computer Club next week.
 Thank you, 
 Randy
John Bosch, 2022/01/06 16:09

THIS IS A GREAT REASON TO ALWAYS BACK UP YOUR COMPUTER!!!! Use Time Machine!

Nancy Bowles, 2021/10/27 19:57

My Apple iPhone iOS15.1 automatically puts the number 1 for all my contacts I can phone out however TEXTs do not go through. Please point me in the right direction. Thanks, Nancy B

Kathy Brainerd, 2021/09/21 16:05

I have a surround sound system with a Onkyo receiver. When selecting a movie on streaming the sound disappeared. It is not muted on any of my remotes. I must have accidentally pushed a wrong button when getting out of the chair or something. It is on the correct source; I've looked at settings but not sure what is what. Can anyone help by phone?

Kathy

Marvin Groberman, 2021/07/01 16:20

When I try and log in to Resident Login, all the information comes except at the bottom of the login it says Remember User and nothing more. It that all I need, or does the page go further and say ENTER.

Thanks for your help.

Marvin

John Jenkinson, 2021/06/23 16:47

A fellow member is currently having problems/issues with the password manager LastPass. If you have had recent issues/problems with LastPass or have found a solution or workaround please reply to this post.

Shirley Brown, 2021/04/21 16:41

I am attempting to make an iMovie and need help

Thanks,

Shirley

Tina Latta, 2021/04/19 22:33

I need help with Outlook email running on newer Windows 10 Lenovo laptop. All was well, and then 10 days ago I was unable to insert my pre-formatted signature, nor able to create it again. Followed 2 or 3 suggestions to fix from microsoft - none worked. If I need to reinstall will DEFINITELY need help with that. Subsequently, but seemingly unrelated, I am not able to see the original email while I am composing a response to it. Would appreciate a few minutes with an Outlook “geek”. Also, how do I find your answer to this query? keep checking back or will I get a individual email response? Many thanks, Tina

Bob Malnar, 2021/04/14 19:13

I have a wifi printer and it has stopped working. When I am trying to print a document, it goes into the printer queue but does not print. I tried the trouble shooter but it did not help. Any suggestions?

Jack Marshall, 2021/04/14 14:07

Need to hire someone to set up new desktop computer, migrate data, etc, from old computer, and wipe old computer so I can donate it. Suggestions?

Reg Brockwell, 2021/02/26 22:43

I just subscribed to Suddenlink 400Mbs internet. I have SSD in all my computers.New Modem and new router with more specs than I need. My HP desktop gets about 90Mbs and my HP Laptop in another room gets 90-100Mbs. My ipad is getting about 200Mbs. Why aren't I getting close to my advertised speed. I don't run them all at once. I may have one computer and one TV going at the same time.I also have an extender in the room with the TV and laptop.

Marlene Sloan, 2021/02/03 16:33

Incoming emails disappearing in Suddenlink webmail inbox and Windows Suddenlink account inbox. After a lot of time looking at settings and other trial and error options, found out my Suddenlink email was hacked. Changed the password and all seems back to normal. FYI in case others are experiencing the same.

Iris CHAUFFE, 2021/01/25 21:31

I'm having problems with MS Outlook (Office 365). Suddenlink emails go into my gmail folder and into my Suddenlink folder, for example.

Dennis McLaughlin, 2020/10/19 17:37

Can you guide me to the best/easiest way to dispose of my old pentium computer? I will remove the hard drive and drill holes, but how do I dispose of the rest?

Julie Marques, 2020/10/03 19:24

I'm looking to replace my all in one desktop and am considering going with a lap top, docking station, monitor, keyboard, etc. That would allow me to bring my laptop on extended travel trips. I've only had a desktop or all in one and usually we've gone to Best Buy and purchased everything from them and had them set it up. I use silhouette & cricut cutting machines so need a higher end laptop. I've searched and one of the most recommended laptops is the acer predator helios 300. I know nothing about docking stations, are they universal to all laptops and monitors? I'm concerned about ordering multiple items from various places and when we get Best Buy in to set things up for us, they won't go together or won't have all the cables/pieces I need. I appreciate any help you can give me. TIA

Bob Kissner, 2020/09/02 18:41

An Excel workbook residing on one of our home network computers, when opened on the other, is flagged as Read Only, even though it is not stored as Read Only on the computer where it resides. Both computers are Windows 10 using MS Office 365. Is there a fix for this problem?

Debra, 2020/08/30 19:52

I was wondering if anyone does any assistance in fixing a VCR problem. Probably it is at least over 10 years old, but I cannot find the manual to see if it had an answer to my problem.

The VCR had a VCR tape “stuck” in it for years now & we obviously have not been using it. WE do have some VCRs though & would like to have a working VCR. We actually finally got the tape out, but now it will not even load another VCR tape into the machine. Nothing seems broken, but then, I probably would not know if there was. So, my question is if anyone from the computer club could help me with this. Tried on You Tube-nothing really helped. Thanks.. Debra

Debra, 2020/08/30 19:51

I was wondering if anyone does any assistance in fixing a VCR problem. Probably it is at least over 10 years old, but I cannot find the manual to see if it had an answer to my problem.

The VCR had a VCR tape “stuck” in it for years now & we obviously have not been using it. WE do have some VCRs though & would like to have a working VCR. We actually finally got the tape out, but now it will not even load another VCR tape into the machine. Nothing seems broken, but then, I probably would not know if there was. So, my question is if anyone from the computer club could help me with this. Tried on You Tube-nothing really helped. Thanks.. Debra

Liz Hobbs, 2020/08/16 17:46

I have 110 slides I would like to convert to JPEG - on thumb drives? for our children. Does anyone have the converter to do this - and can I arrange for you to convert these? I have a Sandisk Ultra 4 GB - can this be used?

Cindy Higgins, 2020/08/06 20:26

I have an HP laptop. I wanted to use it today & I unplugged it & it wasn't charged. I plugged it in and logged on. It said the battery was 100%, I unplugged the charger & the screen went dark. I plugged it in again & it didn't come on. I pressed the on/off & it started up again. I logged on, again 100%. I unplugged, same. I then reset the battery & same. I think it's the plug between the charger & the PC or maybe the battery just isn't taking the charge? I dunno. What should I do now? Just run on AC or buy a new battery?

Steve Ritzwoller, 2020/07/19 19:25

One of my Word 2019 Folders has mysteriously disappeard and it is not in the recycle bin. Is there a way to locate and restore the Folder?

Jeanne Laswell, 2020/07/14 22:23

Following directions, I cannot see how to sign up for August classes via Zoom.

   "          "      "   "     "   "  "   "   "   "  lab in advance to reopening.
Diane Cajka, 2020/07/14 02:04

I'm sure I have a simple problem, but it seems when Microsoft comes out with a new update and I try to take care of it I get myself in a lot of trouble. The most recent one has me making choices as to my printer type, synching my computer, etc. I wonder if someone could just call me and help me to walk through what I need to do. My phone number is 512-863-0805

phillip, 2020/06/01 21:29

Many possible contributors to the symptoms you describe. Assuming you are a member of the Computer Club, one of the Help Center volunteers is likely to give you a call.

Denise Maleska, 2020/06/01 21:05

I use an ASUS laptop. It is slow starting up. I’m not sure if this is caused by my internet speed, age of computer or something else. Also I have trouble with email. I use Outlook to access email. Email is very slow and needs to be cleaned up. I need to delete spam, trash, sent mail but don’t know how to do this. Please advise.

jenkinson, 2020/05/29 16:46

indeed, all manner of possible causes. If you power cycle the laptop Power off - wait 10-15 seconds - Power on while the Acer screen appears press and hold the F8 function key If you then can select the Safe Mode your disk may be ok If you get Advance boot Options and you don't see your laptop's system disk that disk may have died

Karen Palmer, 2020/05/29 13:02

My Acer laptop cannot start. When I try to turn it on the ‘Acer screen‘ comes up and it starts buffering. Does not advance past this. Can you advise?

phillip, 2020/05/25 00:54

As to Zoom requirements: I hope https://zoom.us/ provides a detailed answer. My assumption is you need a computer with video camera, microphone and screen. Zoom appears to function on smart phones, tablets and PC's. If you are buying a PC/tower, then you may need to acquire a USB video camera. Logitech has good options and I believe Logitech also includes a microphone in the camera. As to a tower with wifi? Two factors that impact my attitude. The distance from the PC to the router and costs. These days I am assuming the cost of integrated wifi is low. If your computer is close to your router (typically in the same room or desk), I prefer an ethernet(cat 5 or 6) cable connection. Why? Wifi exposes network activity to “snooping”. If Wifi is not necessary, I avoid wifi. None of my desktop computers are configured with wifi.

John Joines, 2020/05/24 13:24

Two questions: 1. What equipment do I need for using zoom? 2. Buying a tower computer do you recommend get it with WIFI?Bold Text

Doug Steinke, 2020/05/22 00:34

FYI For those that have an issue trying to uninstall a printer that is offline and re-installing the same with no success, try running a scan of your registery (with Ccleaner). I found this worked for me recently with much success.

David, 2020/04/30 15:01

Does the club have any type of software i.e. lightscribe that can be used to print dvd? If not, do you have any recommendations that wold be compatible with MacBook Air?

Catherine, 2020/04/21 04:26

Thanks. If we open up could the help center work with me on this?

jenkinson, 2020/04/20 22:35

Microsoft used to provide a utility to do this. Easy Transfer If you've updated from a previous Windows version , use Search to see if that utility survived the updates Something to consider - you want/need more than just your files and the files of any other users - you want to preserve your IDentity. User profiles, SSIDs, and other things Might thus consider PCmover from Laplink (pay for utility) or contact someone local for help. you'd probably bring both machines to that service and pick it up afterwards. If you do the service - CHANGE your passwords all passwords before bringing the machines in. sanitize via sanitary wipes. copying your files gets you most of the way. using a utility or service gets you further.

good question. i hope it spawns other member's experiences.

Catherine Morales, 2020/04/20 20:16

I just purchased a new HP I have a very old Dell which is up to date but a real antique. How can I transfer all my files to the new HP. How can I set it up–it has Windows 10 without having a Microsoft account? Any advice on discounts for word, PP, Excel packages. Thanks in advance

Carol Hopper, 2020/04/17 14:23

Thanks, Phillip for advice given re: update that changed my desktop and eliminated some icons. I have been able to deal with it successfully with your encouragement. Still missing the safe removal of devices that forces me to go to settings-devices-etc. but that is a small, but annoying thing. Interestingly, when I had a signal interrupt the other day, my old desktop with all the icons came back briefly. The mysteries of computers. Thanks, again, for your help. Carol Hopper

Don Benedict, 2020/04/14 21:15

Trying to power flush Epson ET-2550. When I follow instructions, get to the point to where it says to choose Utility option which is not showing on the screen. Any ideas?

Printer is dropping/skipping some lines.

Did better when I printed from Photo app.

Alan Graham, 2020/04/08 17:07

We have been happy with our 5 year old MacBook Air, but it needs replacing. We use it for word processing, internet browsing and sometimes purchasing, occasional videos, and lots of photo and video storage (but much is on the cloud) and music storage. Just wondering if the 2020 MacBook Air is the right path. Will it give me recognizable upgrades in storage, processing speed, and visual clarity? Do I even need to consider upgrading to the MacBook Pro?

Monte Campbell, 2020/04/02 16:52

I looking at buying a cable modem. What's the best way to get recommendations and help?

Cindy L Lyons, 2020/03/11 19:29

The Outlook Address Book has disappeared from my email address book. How can I get it back?

susan lorms, 2020/02/28 16:39

I need help installing a router and a modem. Can the club help me with this? In addition, I am having difficulty with my Quicken program.

Susan Lorms

Sharon White, 2020/02/28 15:18

I just purchased a new IPAD. As I have always been a PC user, I was wondering if you have a class to help beginners with the IPAD? Thank you.

john rutan, 2020/02/18 16:31

I need to add more memory to speed up my computer, it only has 4 megabits of RAM. If I buy it can someone there help me install it? If not where do you recommend I take it.Bold Text

JAMES F WENDELKEN, 2020/01/20 05:15

On a Windows 10 Home desktop, external HDDs & flash drives are not detected by the File Explorer or the Disk Management programs. The external HDDs & flash drives work fine on different PCs. I've uninstalled all the USB controller drivers. Didn't fix it. I've tried several other Google recommended fixes. None fixed it. Any ideas other than clean install?

Charlie Welsh, 2020/01/17 14:18

Are virus prevention products worth the money? If so, would you recommend what you think best?

Vicki, 2019/12/27 17:07

I have a Mac computer about 8 years old running OS Sierra Version 10.12.6. Sometimes when I surf the internet a window will appear asking me to install the application. The application looks like a magnifying glass in a green circle. My computer will freeze and I can't get out of it unless a do a Conrol-Alt-Delete. Then it leaves a couple of things in my Application file. I delete those and empty my trash. I have pictures, but cannot seem to upload them for your viewing. I feel like it is some kind of malware and I need help getting rid of it for good.

Bill Jirsa, 2019/12/18 16:12

Thank for responding. Wife uses Imac all in one desktop, OS X; 10.6.8. Purchased in 2011. 4GB memory. I use MacBook Pro, OS Mojave 10.14.6. Purchased 2014. 8 GB memory. Screen somewhat cloudy and “splotchy.” I use Microsoft WORD and EXCEL for Mac extensively on laptop. One goal is to both of us with our own laptop, since we travel a lot and now have to share one laptop. I have looked into transferring apple apps (music, contacts, calendar, etc.,) and feel a little intimidated by time and effort required. I would not mind the learning curve of Windows, my main concern is my apps not transferring without being corrupted.

Bill Jirsa, 2019/12/14 02:52

Thank you for trying to help us. I am ready to replace two old Apple's and am considering PC's instead of Apple on the basis of somewhat of a cost savings. both new will be laptops. We use computers for basic stuff; email, facebook, spread sheets, photo management, music, contacts, calendar, Word. I am using Word and Excel for Apple. and will continue to use those programs. We are not gamers, but do watch some video. There seems to be difficulty in transfering Apple files to pC, such as music, contacts, calendar, etc. That plus the learning curve required for PC use has me leaning toward just replacing Apple with Apples. Any thoughts?

Cindy, 2019/12/04 18:08

My husband and I travel a lot and do not want to use hotel or public Wifi for banking. Is there a device that we can purchase so that we can have secure WiFi while traveling?

Charlotte, 2019/12/01 16:28

I am looking to hire someone to help me move Lightroom from my old PC to my new of. Do you have any recommendations?

Thank you,

Charlotte

Charlotte, 2019/12/01 16:28

I am looking to hire someone to help me move Lightroom from my old PC to my new of. Do you have any recommendations?

Thank you,

Charlotte

Debra Albornoz, 2019/11/25 18:12

Is there an easy way to convert PDF files into either pages or Word for MAC. I found a site where they will open it, but if I try to save it as a docx it will not let me. Any suggestions? I assume this is because they discontinued ADOBE or something like that???

Thanks Debra

Helen Sherrod, 2019/11/15 20:43

I have purchased a new printer and need to know how/where to take my old one. Any suggestions? Thank you, Helen Sherrod

phillip, 2019/11/03 01:22, 2019/11/03 10:37

I do not invest much time evaluating new products. My habit is to “google” for knowledge when asked about something that is beyond my recent experience. I do know that HP manufactures a lot of printer models with significant or subtle differences. My preference is a color laser printer/copier/scanner. Why? Years ago I tired of buying ink cartridges. Color ink jet products are less expensive, but may eventually equal the price of a laser product, depending on the amount of printing you complete. The ink modules for ink jet printers can get expensive. Suggestion… Google “Best ink jet printer value”. Here is one result: https://www.pcmag.com/roundup/337811/the-best-inkjet-printers. Here is a recent opinion from forbes.com about all-in-one products. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-finds/2019/10/29/these-5-affordable-all-in-one-printers-are-best-for-most-people/#3b69aef0666c . However, recently I helped someone setup a new 3 in one printer. The one issue I had with the device was: The control/display panel was VERY small. This feature contributed to the time (and squinting) required to complete the initial setup of the printer as a network device. After initial setup, control panel interaction is infrequent. If you connect to the printer with a USB cable, the control panel size may not be a concern.

Carolyn Patterson, 2019/11/02 22:53

I have a Mac computer operating on OS X El Capitan and need a new printer. Just wondering if there is an HP that you would recommend. Does not need to be fancy. Thanks

Linda Burke, 2019/10/30 21:44

HELP!! I was trying to sync my phone and my laptop and got involved with moving things to the cloud, etc, etc, etc. Now I turn on my computer and I have a blank desktop and can't figure out how to get the stuff back on my computer laptop. The sync obviously didn't work either because my songs still aren't showing up on my phone. I was also trying to download or sync or transfer or whatever it is you do to get the pictures on my phone on my laptop. I'm about ready to “kill the cloud”. I hate it and I want it off my computer after I get everything back.

Sheilah Kernan, 2019/10/02 18:22

I was in the black out last night in #4 and we had our lights come on and off at least 6 times. This morning when I turned on my desktop, it did not respond. It was plugged into a large surge protector so I am dismayed that this has happened. Can you help by at least looking at it before I am forced to purchase a new one? Thank you

Tom Leirer, 2019/07/30 14:40

I have a desktop computer with ssd 250gb installed. I bought a 1T ssd to replace it. Unfortunately I don't have the data transfer cable (I think that is what it is called). Can you help me with this? The amount of date to transfer is about 200GB. Thanks in advance. Cheers, Tom Leirer

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