10 Hard Drive Issues and How to Recover From Them

No computer is perfect, and even if there is a perfect one, with time, wear and tear it is bound to bring up some issues, especially to the hard drive. Here are 10 Hard Drive issues you may encounter with your hard drive and how to recover your data and resolve them:

  1. Your files can be corrupted if you don’t shut down your computer properly. When your files are damaged, it is usually tough to access the contents. You can solve this matter by running a command prompt and if that doesn’t work, seek professional data recovery help to restore the files.
  2. Manufacturing defects can cause your computer to fail to recognize a hard drive from a different brand. You can resolve this issue by replacing the drive with a compatible one.
  3. Your PC can overheat due to the fan being slow, or the computer may not be well-ventilated. This can cause a lot of damage to the internal systems of your Pc. You prevent that from happening by repairing the fan and the thermal paste.
  4. Virus and malware can infect your files or emails or other data-oriented apps. Installing anti-virus software is the best remedy to combat this situation.
  5. A pure human error may occur when you install wrong operating systems, alter system default settings or move important file locations. Only a pc expert help you solve this problem.
  6. Your files can disappear. This happens when you can find a file or folder from the previous location you had stored it. You can resolve this issue by either checking the rest of the drive’s partitions or the cloud.
  7. When your computer freezes, it is always an indication that something is not right with your hard drive. You can tackle this problem by rebooting your Pc and if the condition persists, taking it to a professional.
  8. Funny sounds from the hard drive compartment is an obvious sign of more critical problems especially when you hear grinding or screeching sounds. Take the machine for repair ASAP!
  9. Bad sectors – a hard drive has the soft and hard sectors. Windows OS or software upgrades can resolve problems in the soft sector. On the other hand, you should look for a comp guru to repair the physically damaged hard sector.
  10. Frequent unexpected shutdowns could also signal a problem in the hard drive that prompts it to go off. Also, you contact an expert to diagnose the problem.


The easiest way to check for problems with your hard drive is by troubleshooting the disks once in a while and taking appropriate measures. However, if an issue persists, there is no harm in seeking help from an expert.

Top 10 Multiplayer Games of 2018


  1. Overwatch


  1. Fortnite Battle Royale


  1. Destiny


  1. Stars Wars Battlefront II


  1. Battlefield 1


  1. FIFA 18


  1. Injustice 2


  1. Splatoon 2


  1. Rocket League


10. Quake Champions


Gaming Console Advancements to Expect in 2019

The world of gaming, just like other things in the technological sphere has witnessed tremendous improvement in the last 20 years. They say the best way to predict the future is by studying the trends today, ad some of the outstanding Gaming Console Advancements to Expect in 2019.

Virtual reality

The concept of virtual reality has been in the gaming world for a while, and there is an indication that the concept will shape the trends in the gaming industry in 2019. In 2018 and prior years the concept of VR enabled gamers to not only enjoy playing the game but also experience the moments in the game. According to Sony, one of the largest players in the gaming industry, in 2019, VR will introduce the concept of the horror genre in the industry. The creation of these new and improved games will enable gamers to not only follow the story in the game but to experience the setting in the game, the sounds the mood and the sounds. Another major advancement expected in gaming is an improvement of features to reduce the health effects of VR like drowsiness reported by gamers in 2018. The cost of running a VR game has been substantially high, and designing cost-effective games is expected to be a major focus in 2019.

Feel engineering

This concept is not new in the gaming world, but rather a concept that has been improved over time to improve the gamers experience in the industry. Feel engineering puts the feelings of the gamer first and begins by deciding what feelings the game should evoke in a gamer, then work backward to conceptualize the game. This concept is anticipated to introduce the world to the most responsive games of all time. According to Google, the future of online gaming is the emotional investment in the gamers, or simply put, developing a game t, and that invokes emotions in a gamer and the concept of feel engineering is meant to achieve that.

Mobile gaming

Mobile gaming is expected to increase its user-base in 2019. As more people prefer to access their games via mobile devices, developers are expected to improve both accessibility and user experience of mobile games. Pioneers of mobile gaming like fortune casino are improve expected to not their user experience but also increase their prizes and offerings to encourage more gamers to use their mobile site. Along with mobile gaming, cloud gaming is expected to rule the world of gaming in 2019. Cloud gaming will enable developers to localize games in virtually every part of the world and in every language.

Amazing Tips on How to Make the Most of Warranties on Electronics

We all experience moments when we buy electronics and become frustrated when they stop functioning, and the warranty has expired. Did you know that you can still enjoy your warranty even after the date indicated on the certificate has passed? Below, I present you ways on how to make the most of warranties on electronics.

Keep Copies of the Warranties

You should ensure to keep performance promises copies and have spoken claims on electronic products documented since they will reinforce your warranty claims. Manufacturer claims on television, print, and on packages can be used to hold a manufacturer responsible for warranties not reflected on warranty certificates.

Ask to See the Warranty Before Buying an Electronic

Under the federal law, retailers are required to let you read written warranties for electronic products exceeding $15 before purchase. The rule is meant to protect customers from consenting to information they are not comfortable with, or that is unclear and may disadvantage them when seeking to redeem the warranty

Implied Warranties

Under the law, the manufacturer is responsible for implied warranties besides the express warranty. The unwritten protection is meant to guarantees consumer goods from substantial defects and that the product will be functional for a reasonable period. The term ‘Reasonable” is implied by the amount paid and the type of the electronic bought. Many states’ implied warrants on electronics purchased from retailers last for four years.

Goodwill programs. Electronic companies sometimes quietly accept to cater for expired warranties for customers who raise a complaint.

Credit-card warranties. Some credit and debit card companies usually extend manufacturer’s warranties on electronic products purchased using the card for a year. You should ensure to check the documentation accompanying your card or visit the website of the card issuer.

Credit-card chargebacks. Under the federal law, you can seek to have a refund on electronic products purchased using a credit card within a year should you experience a malfunction and the seller fails to settle the issue with you. However, the cost of the product must be above $50, and the seller must be based in your state.

Cordless Charging: Worth the Hype?

Imagine not having to deal with annoying cables, and being able to use a single charger for all your cameras, phones, MP3 players, and even iPods? As phone manufacturers continue to introduce smarter phones, with advanced features, the battery running times have continued to become shorter.

Today, everyone makes, and in some cases, each device comes with its special type of charger. Every time you acquire a new charger, you are required to use it with its accompanying compatible charger. Eventually, you end up being confused due to the pile of different chargers at your disposal.

However, the introduction of cordless charging promises to do away with all this confusion. Also, you do not have to worry about using different chargers, empty batteries, or cable spaghetti. These are some of the benefits that come with wireless charging.

Should You Spend Money on Cordless Charging?

It depends. For some people, it is worth it, especially for individuals who spend a lot of time on their desks each day. Wireless charging is convenient for them as they do not have to keep remembering the fact that they need to plug in their phones. All they have to do is plop the devices on the wireless chargers, and they will be good to go.

Is Wireless Charging Right for Everyone?

If you are a regular traveler, wireless charging may not work for you. It is mainly designed for people who follow a certain routine each day, and who mainly stay in a single place most of the time, be it in the kitchen, or at the office. A cordless charger can also be very useful when placed by the bedside table or drawers.

Does It Have Any Shortfalls?

Cordless charging was mainly designed for use with devices that support fast-charging. If your device does not have this support, this is a function that may end-up inconveniencing you a lot.


The introduction of the cordless charging means that technology has indeed come a very long way. Wireless charging is ideal for people who are regularly at their desks, or in stationary positions. It is, therefore, not recommended for people who are always on the move.


10 Tech Gifts that Anyone Will Love

Finding the perfect gift for a loved one can be a daunting task. Luckily, we’ve compiled for you a list of 10 tech gifts that anyone will love. These tech tools are so great you’ll probably want some of them for yourself!

  1. Earphones/Headsets

For the music lovers, earphones and headsets are a great gift idea. With so many varieties on the market, it is easy to get overwhelmed by choice. The best option is to stick to trusted brands such as Sony, Skullcandy, and Bose, and to look for special features such as strong bass and wireless compatibility.

  1. Amazon Echo Dot

The Echo Dot is the future of home technology. This tiny portable device powered by the voice of Alexa helps in multiple daily tasks including playing music, controlling smart devices and home appliances, making and receiving calls, and so much more.

  1. Water-proof Phone Case

These handy phone cases, which come in a variety of fun and creative designs, fully protect phones from water damage. Considering how expensive water-proof phones can be, this is an affordable option and an ideal gift for anyone with a mobile phone.

  1. Digital Camera

A digital camera is a great gift for amateur and professional photographers alike. Fujifilm, Nikon, Canon, and Panasonic are some of the best camera brands available. Be sure to buy a camera that suits the recipient’s level of photography expertise.

  1. Apple Watch

Wearable technology has taken over the tech industry and watches are a particularly popular option. The Apple Watch allows you to send and receive calls and messages, communicate with Siri, track your fitness activities, and control your phone, among numerous exciting and useful functions.

  1. Portable Bluetooth Speaker

A portable Bluetooth speaker allows you to listen to high-quality audio and music wherever you may be. Bluetooth speakers in the market range in sound quality, size, and price. They are also available in unique designs such as a panda-shaped speaker for a child or a gramophone-shaped speaker for a music enthusiast.

  1. Kindle

The Kindle has been around for years but it is still a great gift idea for someone who loves to read. Kindles are very readable and mimic real paper, allowing you to read in super-bright outdoor light or in bed with no strain and no glare.

  1. Instant Printers

These innovative devices allow you to print photos instantaneously from your smartphone. Instant printers are small and portable making it easy to take them everywhere with you. Best of all some don’t use ink and instead rely on chemical photo paper.

  1. Smart Lock Pro

This handy security device allows you to go completely keyless and control your front door from anywhere you may be. This means you can give secure entry to your house to the delivery man, dog walker, or friends and family without having to be there yourself.

  1. Amazon Fire Stick

Another innovative device from Amazon, the Fire Stick is a streaming device that takes home entertainment to the next level. It gives affordable access to top TV shows, movies, games, subscription services, music, and so much more.

What is an External GPU and How Does It Work?

An External Graphics Processing Unit or eGPU is an idea that has been around the World Wide Web for quite a while. It is also one that has been in the Research and Development departments of numerous video card makers for an even longer time. The general concept of an eGPU involves connecting your standard laptop to an external cable using one cable.

Once connected, the eGPU will take over all the load off the internal GPU. In so doing, it will be ensuring that all this load is taken over by the extension that is more powerful than the internal one.

How Does It Work?

Often, you will find the external Graphics Processing Unit being hooked up to a particular dock. The dock where the GPU will be hooked to will normally have a USB-C cord or a Thunderbolt that is used to connect to the laptop. An eGPU dock will also have a PCIe port that is used to connect the graphics card.

The process of using a dock has been immensely simplified. It is as simple as installing a driver, the card, rebooting the machine, and then configuring some software. However, as is the case with any regular workaround, whether the process will be this simple depends on your prowess, and your ability to follow the instructions that have been provided.

Once the setup is complete, the computer will start routing all the requests made by the graphics card to the eGPU, instead of using the internal one. This process is bound to provide you with better performance, especially given the fact that many laptops do not have a lot of graphical processing power.

This setup can also be used for desktops, although it is commonly used with laptops. By employing a bigger, and more powerful graphics card, you get to enjoy a better performance when gaming, or when running other ‘heavy’ programs in your laptop.


External Graphics Processing Units may have some drawbacks, e.g., affordability, but they have in fact been seen to work. Additionally, you get to enjoy a better graphical performance from your machine, making it possible for you to run applications, and play games that would not have worked on your laptop before.

Microsoft Programs You Didn’t Know Existed

Microsoft Corporation was founded 43 years ago and since establishment has changed the world as we know it. It has had multiple forays into various inventive lines from software design to hardware. It is no wonder then, some programs have fallen into the cracks. Here are a few Microsoft programs you probably did not know ever existed;

Microsoft Entourage

This was an e-mail client application that also helped the end user manage personal data. It had some success before it was discontinued in 2008 after stiff competition from Apple software and others in the same line. It was replaced by Microsoft Outlook and ten years down the line, very few people remember it even existed.

Microsoft Money

Microsoft Money was a very early personal finance management program with a range of capabilities from being able to access online bank accounts to enabling automated transactions. It was developed in 1991 and taken out of the market in 2009. Its flaws were obvious, from vulnerability to cyber security threats to competition from far superior alternatives in the market. In its dying days, it was used as an economic data accumulator providing real-time stock rates, real estate prices, mortgage calculations, et cetera.

Microsoft Vizact

This application allowed various effects such as animations to be put into HTML+TIME interactive documents. It was widely unpopular and was scrapped in 2000. Although, it has been claimed to be the first ever document activation program.

Microsoft MapPoint

Microsoft MapPoint can generously be called the precursor to today’s Google Maps. It allowed users to interact with gathered map data from actual on the ground data and hypotheses. Effectively creating an accurate rudimentary map of the areas, one was interested in. It was scrapped in 2014 due to competition from more effective alternatives.

With their long track record and history, Microsoft Corporation was bound to have had some forgettable programs!