Clean up Windows files and folders

Fred Langa, author of the LangaList newsletter, offers great tips. His 2002 series on cleanup of multiple versions of Windows is still a classic. The linked page contains:

• Basic cleanup for all versions of windows
• Advanced cleanup batch file (Win 9x)
• Advanced cleanup for other versions of Windows (including XP)
• Sageset tips
• Sagerun tips
• Cleaning of temporary files folders
• Advanced use of cleanup commands

At both work and home I use a custom version of "cleanxp.bat". It's fast and handy. You wouldn't believe how many problems it "magically" fixes. I often tell clients to exit from all programs and then run it before trying more advanced troubleshooting. Too many programs leave behind temporary files that they should delete when you close them.

Fred's LangaList newsletter comes in two versions -- free and an inexpensive paid ("Plus") version. It's available in varied emailed formats as well as on the web. The Plus version gets you even more juicy tips. Oh ... and despite coming from New Hampshire, Fred doesn't take anything for granite.

Google fun!

There are a bazillion ways to enjoy Google. Now there's a book, "55 Ways to Have Fun with Google", that lets others in on Google entertainment.

This unique book is available as a purchase or even as a free PDF or MS Word download. Just make sure you read the Creative Commons license.

HP printer power cord recall

If you have an HP printer in one of the following series (at work or home), check whether the power cord has been recalled.

• DeskJet 800 series
• DeskJet 900 series
• PhotoSmart 1000 series
• PhotoSmart 1100 series
• PhotoSmart 1200 series
• PhotoSmart 1300 series

HP power cord recall page