Hot Computers & Programming Posts

How To: Encrypt and decrypt video with a Visual Basic application

In this clip, you'll learn how to implement video encryption and decryption in a VB app. Whether you're new to Microsoft's popular event-driven program language & IDE or a seasoned developer merely looking to improve your chops, you're sure to find benefit in this free Visual Basic programming lesson. For more information, including a complete demonstration and detailed, step-by-step instructions, take a look.

How To: Create a simple chat application with WinSock in Visual Basic 6

In this clip, you'll learn how to create simple chat applications with WinSock in VB 6. Whether you're new to Microsoft's popular event-driven program language & IDE or a seasoned developer merely looking to improve your chops, you're sure to find benefit in this free Visual Basic programming lesson. For more information, including a complete demonstration and detailed, step-by-step instructions, take a look.

How To: Create a simple form letter when programming in PHP

In this clip, you'll learn how to employ variables and arrays to generate a form letter when coding in PHP. Whether you're new to the PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor scripting language or are a seasoned web developer merely looking to improve your chops, you're sure to find benefit in this free video programming lesson. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, take a look.

How To: Map an FTP server in Windows 7 Explorer

To do that click on tools in windows explorer and choose map network drive. Now click on "connect to a web site that you can use to store your documents and pictures" and then click on next and next. Now you have to type your internet or network address for example you type ftp://ftp.mozilla.org. This is a public server and it does not require a user name or password. Now click on next and there make sure you selected "log on anonymously" but if your server require a password then you have to...

How To: View TCP and UDP ports on a Windows PC with MyPorts 2010

Looking for an easy way to view and inspect your Windows computer's TCP and UDP ports? This clip will teach you everything you'll need to know. It's easy! So easy, in fact, that this home-computing how-to from the folks at Britec can present a complete overview of the process in just over four minutes. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, take a look.

How To: Create a new Windows partition with GParted software

In this tutorial, we learn how to create a new Windows partition with GParted software. First, insert your boot CD into your computer, then turn your computer off and it will automatically boot. Next, hit enter to select the first option, then wait for the scan to complete. When done, select your type of keyboard, then hit enter. After this, select your language and then continue to wait for the boot to continue. Once loaded, you will see the main partition. To split this, select it and click...

How To: Convert text to spoken word with the OS X Automator

Learn how to use Automator to convert selected text, or text from a file, to audio. You can listen to the result on your Mac, iPod or iPhone while on-the-go. It's easy! So easy, in fact, that this home-computing how-to from MacMost can present a full overview of the feature in exactly four minutes. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this Apple lover's guide.

How To: Log on to a system without the password via Kon-Boot

In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to bypass the log on system. Begin by downloading the Kon-Boot file provided in the video description. Once downloaded, burn the file onto a disc or convert it into an ISO image file to burn it onto a disc. Now wait for the file to finish loading. This will take several minutes. Once finished, users will now automatically be able to log into the password protected computer by simply pressing any key on their keyboard. This video will benefit those vie...

How To: Make CD and DVD images in Ubuntu Linux

In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to make CD and DVD images in Ubuntu. This task is very easy, fast and simple to do. Begin by right-clicking on the disc icon of the computer and select Copy Disc. When the CD/DVD Options window opens, click on Properties. Now name the disc, select a save folder and choose ISO image for the image type. When finished configuring, click on Apply and wait for the disc to finish copying. This video will benefit those viewers who use a Ubuntu computer, and ...

How To: Enable or disable hibernation on a PC with Windows XP

The moment when your Windows XP PC begins hibernating is one of the most frustrating in many PC users lives, causing hands to be thrown up in frustration and preparations for a hard reset to begin. Do you wish that you computer didn't even have the option of hibernating? This video will show you how to turn off hibernation in Windows XP, allowing you to use your computer's entire battery without risking a sudden faux-shutdown.

How To: Clean the keyboard on a Dell laptop

A laptop keyboard can collect a lot of dust, dirt, and breadcrumbs. In this tutorial, we learn how to clean out your laptop keyboard. Start off by removing the casing from around your laptop, making sure not to unplug any wires. You will need a screwdriver to remove the screw. Next, you will want to use a soft brush or tooth brush to clean where the keys were, and the inside underneath the screen. Next, replace the keyboard where it was and any screws. Also, plug in anything that may have com...

How To: Make your game character jump with Flash CS4

One of the first daunting tasks that confronts most aspiring gamemakers is a simple one: making a character jump and land predictably. If you're gotten to this point and wonder what to do, you're in the right place. This video will teach you how to use Actionscript 3 in Flash CS4 to make your character jump like Mario (or Sonic if you prefer) making your game much closer to being the playable, fun entity that it will soon be.

How To: Create rollover events with Flash ActionScript 2.0

This is a basic Flash tutorial showing you how to make an event occur when you scroll the mouse on and off an object using ActionScript 2.0. Whether you're new to Adobe's popular Flash-development platform or a seasoned web developer looking to better acquaint yourself with Flash CS3, you're sure to benefit from this free software tutorial. For more information, and to get started creating and using rollovers in your own Flash projects, watch this video guide.

How To: Compress and encrypt an .EXE file with MPRESS

For the newer generation, using a computer is now a common thing that a lot of people must know how to do. Regular things like opening programs, writing papers, and using the internet are all easy to get, but there are other things that can be a bit harder for those less experienced. So if you're starting off or just looking to learn something new, this video can help. In this tutorial, you'll find out how to compress and encrypt an .EXE file for free using MPRESS. Good luck, pay attention, a...

How To: Get mouse input from users for Java game development

Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to use accept mouse input from a user in a Java applet. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.

How To: Work with sprites in Java game development

Want to write Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will help you on your merry way to accomplishing just that. Specifically, this lesson will demonstrate how to work with sprites when doing game development. For detailed instructions, watch this programmer's guide.

How To: Install Mac OS X Panther on Windows XP (Pearpc)

In this how to video, you will learn how to install Mac OS X on Windows XP. First, download and open PearPC. Also make sure you have the Mac OS X CD or installation files on your computer. Next, select edit and navigate to the Mac OS X file. Click okay and then press configure. From here, change the settings to your liking, such as the screen resolution, and click finish. Next, click browse and go to the Mac OS X ISO file. Open it and the installation for the operating system will start. This...

How To: Remove the front case from a G5 iMac

In this how-to video, you will learn how to remove the front case of an iMac G5. First, lay the case on its back. Remove the screws in order to get the ram bay cover off. Once this is done, pull on the release tabs to remove the ram modules. Next, remove the torx screws on the bottom side of the casing. Once these are removed, work your way around the casing to remove the front from the back. Do not pull too far as you might damage the wires to the camera. Unplug the camera once you are able ...

How To: Add fonts to GIMP on Linux Ubuntu

Linux is a fully functioning free operating system that you can download online. Just because you are using Linux Ubuntu doesn't mean your projects have to suffer or look less professional that those made on traditional operating systems like Windows or Mac OS X. In this tutorial, learn how to download and add fonts to the GIMP photo program on a Linux Ubuntu system.

How To: Find details about your RAM & processor type in XP

In this how-to video, you will learn how to check your personal computer's RAM, processor speed, and operating system information on Windows XP. First, go to start and select my computer. From here, click view system information to open a new window. A screen will show you the information you need, such as the type of operating system you are running, the size and speed of the processor, and the amount of ram you have. Click okay to exit this window. This will be helpful for doing upgrades or...

How To: Secure a Linksys WiFi network from a Mac computer

In this video from benjamoon we learn how to secure a linksys wifi network from a Mac. First type in your IP address in your browser bar which is 192.168.1.1 then press enter. If it asks for a password it is admin. Click on Wireless and here you can edit your name and who can access your wifi network. Under wireless security, go to WPA personal from the drop down menu. When you make your password, make it very challenging. He recommends just banging your hand against the keyboard, as long as ...

How To: Make an annoying batch file to prank friends

To make an annoying batch file to prank your friends you need to first right click on your screen and go to New and then Folder. In this New folder make a Text file and type in "for /l %%n in (1,1,10) DO md %%n" and that is it. Now this will loop from 1 - 10 and make a new folder for whatever n is. You can change the command if you would like to! Now, you can change this text file to 'Folder' and allow for this to be clicked. You can change the number "10" to any large number so the folder co...

How To: Remove Windows Genuine Advantage from Windows Startup

1. First go to START -> ALL PROGRAMS -> ACCESSORIES -> SYSTEM TOOLS -> SCHEDULED TASKS.2. Right click on WGA setup icon and select PROPERTIES. Find where the WGA files are located.3. Copy the location form the window appears in the previous step and paste it in the address bar of MYCOMPUTER.4. Delete the files found in the respective location.5. After deleting the files, now delete the WGA found in the scheduled task.6. RESTART the windows and windows genuine advantage ll not disturb again.

How To: Delete temporary files in Windows XP

In this video it is demonstrated that how to delete temporary files in Windows XP. There are two different methods for deleting temporary files. First of all go to and click "start" then go to "run" and type temp now click on ok, then a window will appear, in this window there are all useless files, select all files and delete it. Now the other method is go to "run" and type %TEMP%, after clicking ok a window will appear in which there are useless folders and files, select all folders and fil...

How To: Encrypt batch files with variables

Encryption is the process of converting you data in to other obscure form so that no one can read it. Encryption can also be done using batch files. Batch files are scripting programs in windows which can be used to program small automatic operations. To do this open a notepad to write the batch program. First turn of the echo by inserting the command '@echo off'. Now write the rest of the program as shown in the video. Now save the image as a bat file. Now you can encrypt this batch file. To...

How To: Use Remote Desktop in Windows Server 2003

Remote desktop in windows is set up with these easy to follow steps. First go to your start menu this is in the bottom left corner of your desktop. In the start menu locate your control panel. In the control panel open up your systems folder. Once this is open click the remote tab at the top right of this folder. In this tab you will have the option to check “allow user to connect remotely to this computer.” From here press ok to exit out of the systems folder.Again click the start menu, navi...

How To: Remove unwanted files from your PC with CCleaner

Alex with Mr. Find A Way demonstrates how to remove unwanted files from your PC with the CCleaner program. First open up your web browser and download the CCleaner program. After the program has downloaded, open the file to install the program on your computer system. Open up the program and select the deletion options from the choices on the left hand side of the screen. Click the run cleaner button on the bottom right hand side of the screen. The program will now delete the files. A status ...

How To: Dual boot Vista & Mac OSX

This video illustrates the easiest method to Dual Boot Vista and MacOS on a single PC. This process is comprised of the following steps-Step 1. First install Windows Vista to your PC.Step 2. Run the software "Bootmaster" in windows.Step 3. When asked for the number of operating system to be installed choose Dual Boot option.Step 4. You would be asked for the type of operating systems to be installed on the computer.Step 5. Choose MAC OS and Windows Vista OS.Step 6. Insert the MAC OS CD and th...