Computer System Tune-Up

Similar to regular maintenance that we perform on our vehicles, computer systems too require periodic polishing and tweaking. If computer systems are left unattended for too long, system performance and reliability start to decrease. Here are some tips to keeping your computer system running at peek performance:

1. Clean up unwanted files from the hard drive. As programs run on a computer system, many temporary files are created. Often these files get left behind taking up valuable resources and causing applications to become sluggish and unpredictable. Deleting these files on an ongoing basis will assist in keeping your system running efficiently.

2. Clean your backup drives often. Drives such as floppy, tape or zip drives are common hardware devices used for system backups. Because these drives are constantly being used with media that is removable, they are most susceptible to collecting dirt and dust. A dirty drive may cause errors when writing data. This translates to possible corrupt data and unreliable system backups. Cleaning kits are available at many computer supply stores for all of these devices. A good investment considering what the results of a dirty drive could mean.

3. Perform periodic defrag and disk check procedures on your hard drive. As files are written and deleted from a hard drive, the operating system may have to break it up into pieces. This is known as fragmentation. If this issue is left unchecked, eventually the system performance will begin to slow. Defrag and disk check programs are available with most operating systems.

4. Ensure that you keep at least 20% of your disk space available for the operating system. Operating systems, especially Windows, require disk space to run efficiently. This space is used to create temporary files and workspaces that are critical to the operation of your system. If the total available disk space drops below an acceptable level, you will see your system performance slowdown and possibly application errors begin to occur.

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5. Test your backup power supply systems. Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) units are an important, if not necessary, part of any sound business system. They protect your computers from irregular power interruptions and prevent possible data corruption. Periodic tests of your UPS will ensure that it is continuing to hold a charge for when you need it the most.

Not Just the Guy Answering the Telephone

What previous experience did you bring to Solid Innovation?
I've been working in the Client Service Industry for over 5 years. Past jobs include hardware/ software trouble shooting, web design and technical support.

What is your main role at Solid Innovation?
I am here to assist our customers by providing answers to the questions they ask.

What do you do when your not assisting with technical support issues?
Quality Assurance.

What is "Quality Assurance"?
It's an in depth testing/reviewing of the up-coming software versions. This ensures we deliver the highest quality product to our customers.

What is the most commonly asked question you hear and what is your answer?
Why does Solid Business Central™™ state "File access denied" at the beginning of the month? At the beginning of each month, the program must perform a Month End process. If this error occurs, exit out of all Si programs at all workstations. Then restart Solid Business Central™.

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