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HTMLHelp Forums _ Off Topic _ How bad is Win 10?

Posted by: pandy Sep 22 2017, 03:42 PM

My computer has broken down. Yeah, again. I just bought a very slightly used one with a lot better components that I would otherwise afford.


It comes with Win 10 (Pro), I think. The guy hated it himself and recommended me to install 7 or 8 instead. 7 seems the least annoying, but support ends in less than 3 years. 8 seems pretty horrid too. So maybe I should just go with 10?

I've read about the murder of the start menu, that updates are forced and that you have no control of what and when. Is it as bad as I've heard?


Posted by: pandy Sep 22 2017, 03:46 PM

Also, I'm on my phone and won't be around much until I have a computer again. I'll of course read any answers to this thread though. :-)

Posted by: Christian J Sep 22 2017, 04:44 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Sep 22 2017, 10:42 PM) *

It comes with Win 10 (Pro), I think.

Consider a clean reinstall, just in case...

QUOTE
8 seems pretty horrid too. So maybe I should just go with 10?


Yes, 8 (and 8.1?) is worse than 10 from what I read, so it's between 7, 10 or Linux.

QUOTE
I've read about the murder of the start menu, that updates are forced and that you have no control of what and when. Is it as bad as I've heard?

Perhaps with default settings, but a lot can be changed or removed.

There is a Start menu, and you can customize it and remove unwanted junk from it.

The flat user interface is a slight annoyance (hard to recognize clickable button, or if a menu needs to be scrolled), and user settings are found both in the old Control Panel and the new Settings, but it's no worse than the mess in previous Windows versions.

Forced updates can be postponed by setting your Internet connection type to "metered". You can't avoid security updates this way though, but even then they shouldn't restart the OS without consent.

I used third-party tools to disable as much spying as possible, and I of course wouldn't use any MS Cloud services or online accounts.

The security settings might be problematic in some cases. For example, my XAMPP installation is not allowed to access files in My Documents. Maybe it's possible to fix this somehow, but I simply moved my projects into XAMPP instead.

QUOTE
until I have a computer again.

Haven't you recieved it yet?

Posted by: pandy Sep 22 2017, 04:58 PM

I read that a cable connection can't be made metered. Not true? And if it can, can you somehow choose what updates to install or is it "install one and get it all"?

The start menu is a lesser problem since there are alternatives. But i've heard it's animated, filled with popup ads and that you can't order things as you want.

The flat look is a big problem for me. I found there is still a classic skin. Doesn't choosing that help?

Posted by: Christian J Sep 22 2017, 06:07 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Sep 22 2017, 11:58 PM) *

I read that a cable connection can't be made metered. Not true?

No, you can set that yourself (so far).

QUOTE
And if it can, can you somehow choose what updates to install or is it "install one and get it all"?

With metered on, you only get security updates, with it off I think you get everything. I've read it's possible to uninstall individual updates afterwards, in case something's broken, not sure.

QUOTE
The start menu is a lesser problem since there are alternatives. But i've heard it's animated, filled with popup ads and that you can't order things as you want.

Ads can also show up in Windows Explorer. wub.gif But it's possible to disable all of it (so far). You can change menu order too, but I'm not too experienced with it in any Windows version.

The Taskbar is a bit different (not sure about Win7). When you start a program, it's rectangular Taskbar button shows up where the Quick launch shortcut is located, pushing all the other quick launch shortcuts to the right. This took a while to get used to.

QUOTE
The flat look is a big problem for me. I found there is still a classic skin. Doesn't choosing that help?

Haven't bothered changing. It mostly a minor annoyance to me, like today's browser skins.

Posted by: pandy Sep 22 2017, 08:49 PM

You are probably right and I should go with 10. It's certainly the easiest and cheapest since it comes with.

Posted by: pandy Sep 22 2017, 08:56 PM

I'm not good at hardware, but I think it's a good buy, probably overkill for me.

Processor i5 6600 K, PS 750W, GeForce 1060 6GB, 16 GB RAM (DDR4), a 250 GB SSD and a nice case with some kind of cooler and a lot of fans. ;-)

Posted by: Christian J Sep 23 2017, 05:04 AM

Looks like great specs, even for a gaming PC. Is it watercooled?

Posted by: pandy Sep 23 2017, 11:07 AM

Forgot to ask about the cooling. Haven't had anything like that before. Together with the screen i bought earlier I have feeling this will be a whole other experience than what I'm used too. But I didn't expect to have to buy a new computer this soon, so it's water and bread for me now.

Didn't see your question above. No, don't have it yet and haven't paid anything yet either. Hopefully the guy can deliver it himself on thursday. Otherwise it's DHL. Hope it works out, don't know hiw to do with payment otherwise

Posted by: pandy Sep 23 2017, 11:10 AM

And why the heck isn't it easy to change the language for the spell checker on a phone? :mad:

Posted by: Christian J Sep 23 2017, 12:12 PM

Thought you meant water cooled when you wrote "some kind of cooler"...

Posted by: pandy Sep 23 2017, 04:01 PM

I don't know what kinds there are.

It looks like the offspring of a fan and a destillery. Sadly it's cheap but it gets good reviews. It's called "Be quiet! Pure Rock". biggrin.gif

Posted by: Christian J Sep 23 2017, 06:12 PM

That's a CPU air cooler. Just be careful that the motherboard doesn't become damaged during shipping, since the heat sink is a bit heavy. My PC shipped without any obvious problems though.

Posted by: pandy Sep 24 2017, 07:51 AM

Plan was the guy would deliver it himself on thursday when he was going to Stockholm anyway, but that has been changed to next week. He's changed his mind and is now reluctant to ship it - and he works at Dustin and can use their boxes and other stuff for safe transport!

Worst case scenario - I fetch it. By bus. :-( Well, could be nice actually. It's in Strängnäs where I haven't been since my teens. Guess I could make it an "utflykt".

We'll see. I'll talk to him tonight.

Posted by: Christian J Sep 25 2017, 10:31 AM

You could also repair the old PC. I always keep the last one for backup when I get a new.

Posted by: pandy Sep 25 2017, 05:22 PM

I'll fetch it myself tomorrow. I'll spend 4 huours on a bus. But can't wait any longer. I get kind if nentally blocked without a computer. It's going to be nice weather and I'm planning on some sightseeing. Haven't been to Strängnäs since I was a kid but as i remeber it it's a pretty little town. And I can get some points in GPS game I'm playing too. biggrin.gif

Yeah, I'm planning to keep the old one, buy some cheep parts and put Linux on it. I think the graphics card and the PS are good. It's a good case anyway. rolleyes.gif

Posted by: pandy Sep 25 2017, 05:22 PM

I'll fetch it myself tomorrow. I'll spend 4 huours on a bus. But I can't wait any longer. I get kind if mentally blocked without a computer. It's going to be nice weather and I'm planning on some sightseeing. Haven't been to Strängnäs since I was a kid but as I remember it it's a pretty little town. And I can get some points in a GPS game I'm playing too. biggrin.gif

Yeah, I'm planning to keep the old one, buy some cheep parts and put Linux on it. I think the graphics card and the PS is good. It's a good case anyway. rolleyes.gif

Posted by: pandy Sep 25 2017, 05:25 PM

Oh, I decided on win10. The guy will format and make a fresh installation so we can test run before putting it in a box.

I think the best thing will be to use a real keyboard again and to see what I'm writing...

Posted by: pandy Sep 27 2017, 06:43 AM

Well, the computer is fast. smile.gif But the look and feel of Windows 10... My eyes hurt already - not joking. All this verbose text everywhere, the colors, no proper borders, program windows float into eachother *visually*... I don\t even manage to choose the color I want on the desktop. And yeah, the keyboard settings are screwed up somehow. That\s next.

Isn\t this supposed to be fun. It isn\t. And to explain, I can\t type a question mark, prim or paranthesis. ninja.gif

Posted by: pandy Sep 27 2017, 06:53 AM

Fixed the keyboard. Still sucks. Not even my beloved k-mel looks as it should. ninja.gif

Posted by: pandy Sep 27 2017, 09:13 AM

Christian, do you have Pro or some other more advanced version of 10? I have Home. I find no way to make an ethernet connection metered. sad.gif

And what's with these "apps"? Just a hip word for applications/programs or more like apps on a phone?

Posted by: Christian J Sep 27 2017, 09:33 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Sep 27 2017, 01:43 PM) *

Well, the computer is fast. smile.gif But the look and feel of Windows 10... My eyes hurt already - not joking. All this verbose text everywhere, the colors, no proper borders,

Not sure if this one's any better: https://www.howtogeek.com/133405/how-to-get-classic-style-themes-back-on-windows-8/ (I've become used to the flat theme myself though).

But first of all clean up all the bloat and spyware which comes enabled by default, I used https://www.safer-networking.org/spybot-anti-beacon/ (though it has not been updated for a while). A couple other sites I've used for manual checking:

https://www.ghacks.net/2017/03/20/turn-off-most-windows-10-ads-with-a-double-click/
https://www.cyberpunkforums.com/viewtopic.php?id=3692

You can also re-enable Photo Viewer in the registry: https://www.howtogeek.com/225844/how-to-make-windows-photo-viewer-your-default-image-viewer-on-windows-10/

QUOTE
program windows float into eachother *visually*...

When does that happen? I think I've experienced something like that during Taskbar operations.

QUOTE
I don\t even manage to choose the color I want on the desktop.

That should work once you've entered the license key.

QUOTE
Isn\t this supposed to be fun.

The real fun is that this new mobile/touch screen design was done because Microsoft wanted the same Windows look on both PCs and smartphones. Then nobody wanted to buy their smartphones anyway. Oops. mellow.gif


Posted by: Christian J Sep 27 2017, 09:46 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Sep 27 2017, 04:13 PM) *

Christian, do you have Pro or some other more advanced version of 10? I have Home. I find no way to make an ethernet connection metered. sad.gif

I have Home too. Go to Windows Settings (the cog wheel icon) > Network & Internet > Change Connection Properties, and enable Metered Connection.

While you're at it, go to Win Update > Advanced > Choose how updates are delivered, and disable everything. There are many more similar annoyances, see the links I posted above.

QUOTE
And what's with these "apps"? Just a hip word for applications/programs or more like apps on a phone?

Both, I think. The plan is likely to make users buy programs from the Windows Store (similar to Apple's and Google's walled gardens) instead of downloading free software. Most likely they try to make it more complicated and scary to download free software, and that way herd users into the Windows Store, so expect even more "security warnings" etc in the future. wacko.gif

There's also a version called Windows 10 S, where you are only allowed to install programs from the Windows Store.

Posted by: pandy Sep 27 2017, 06:55 PM

Thanks. I'll look into the links tomorrow. My head spins right now.

QUOTE(Christian J @ Sep 27 2017, 04:46 PM) *

I have Home too. Go to Windows Settings (the cog wheel icon) > Network & Internet > Change Connection Properties, and enable Metered Connection.


But how? sad.gif

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QUOTE
While you're at it, go to Win Update > Advanced > Choose how updates are delivered, and disable everything. There are many more similar annoyances, see the links I posted above.


Ouch, that's a nasty one.

QUOTE
There's also a version called Windows 10 S, where you are only allowed to install programs from the Windows Store.


For real? And people buy that? Maybe it's meant as some kind of semi kiosk mode? If you want to give a severly demented person a computer or use it as a learning machine at kindergarten maybe this offers some kind of security and still lets them play with installing stuff. ohmy.gif

About the floating windows, I meant in my mind. Big white areas without borders, with too much text and flashy icons and everything spread out instead of ordered in nice, compact columns and sections, I can't easily separate what belongs where. It does actually hurt my eyes. They get tired. Probably I stare to try to see something that isn't there.

I don't know. I've always defended MS back in the "evil empire days". I never thought they were quite as bad as people painted them. But now I don't know. Problem is, there's nowhere to go. Linux doesn't really do it for me. I can't use my favourite programs. Yeah, I know, Wine or whatever is used these days, but it isn't the same. And many Linux programs that could be good are in eternal beta stage.

So, at the end of the day, who will own our asses the most? MS or Google? ninja.gif

Posted by: pandy Sep 27 2017, 07:14 PM

BTW, several years ago now I said programs had started to look like web pages. Security related applications led the way, AV and Firewalls. Big icons, all backgrounds white or in some horrible strong color, i.e. no chrome. No menus, huge buttons instead. Now the whole freeking OS looks like that.

Speaking of icons, what happened to small, easily recognized icons in primal colors, I wonder? I don't want to study them in detail for minutes to discover what they may symbolize. Icons should be like traffic signs. High contrast, clear and stong colors and very, very easy to identify and understand.

Posted by: Christian J Sep 28 2017, 05:59 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Sep 28 2017, 01:55 AM) *

But how? sad.gif

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That looks like the old Control Panel, that they're gradually phasing out. Now there's a second one called "Windows Settings". Go to Start and click the cog wheel icon in the bottom left, then Network & Internet > Change Connection Properties, and enable Metered Connection.

QUOTE
For real? And people buy that?

No idea, but some seem to buy Chromebooks too. Apparently Win 10 S came with some Surface Laptops, but buyers where given the option to upgrade to full Windows.

QUOTE
Maybe it's meant as some kind of semi kiosk mode? If you want to give a severly demented person a computer or use it as a learning machine at kindergarten maybe this offers some kind of security and still lets them play with installing stuff. ohmy.gif

Yes, and maybe people demented by used to smartphones and tablet use will like it. wacko.gif

QUOTE
I don't know. I've always defended MS back in the "evil empire days". I never thought they were quite as bad as people painted them. But now I don't know.

The dirty tricks they've used to trick Win7 users to upgrade to 10 were a give-away for me. As for the spyware, the app store and the new UI, I think they just try to imitate Google and Apple in a clumsy way (kind of typical for MS).

QUOTE
So, at the end of the day, who will own our asses the most? MS or Google? ninja.gif

So far it's possible to fight Google by being careful, and you don't need any of the MS cloud services. But if MS starts spying on your file system and keyboard input it sure becomes hard to defend yourself. OTOH I can't imagine Win 10 Enterprise clients accepting that MS spies on their company secrets, and even if MS would just spy on pesky Win Home users I think the loss of trust might affect their Enterprise sales as well.

Posted by: pandy Sep 28 2017, 06:37 AM

QUOTE
That looks like the old Control Panel, that they're gradually phasing out. Now there's a second one called "Windows Settings". Go to Start and click the cog wheel icon in the bottom left, then Network & Internet > Change Connection Properties, and enable Metered Connection.


It leads to exactly the same page. What am I looking for? A "link on the page", a menu option?

Windows has upgraded itself with this creator's somthing or other I've read about. Some sites say what I'm trying to do is possible after that, but alas... Most sites just say it's impossible. But I assumed they were old, since you say it is doable.

Posted by: Christian J Sep 28 2017, 06:56 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Sep 28 2017, 02:14 AM) *

BTW, several years ago now I said programs had started to look like web pages.

Lately I've started seeing web pages with "hamburger" icons in their menus, just like the Chrome browser. Sometimes it's several hamburger in a row. wacko.gif

QUOTE
Big icons, all backgrounds white or in some horrible strong color, i.e. no chrome. No menus, huge buttons instead. Now the whole freeking OS looks like that.

Maybe it's an adaption to small phone screens. I doubt it's for disabled users. unsure.gif


Posted by: Christian J Sep 28 2017, 07:05 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Sep 28 2017, 01:37 PM) *

QUOTE
That looks like the old Control Panel, that they're gradually phasing out. Now there's a second one called "Windows Settings". Go to Start and click the cog wheel icon in the bottom left, then Network & Internet > Change Connection Properties, and enable Metered Connection.


It leads to exactly the same page. What am I looking for? A "link on the page", a menu option?

You didn't click "Change Adapter Options" further down then? Here's the right one:

Attached Image

QUOTE
Windows has upgraded itself with this creator's somthing or other I've read about. Some sites say what I'm trying to do is possible after that, but alas... Most sites just say it's impossible. But I assumed they were old, since you say it is doable.

Sounds strange, I have Creator's update too but I've also done some customizations (as mentioned before).

Posted by: pandy Sep 28 2017, 07:23 AM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Sep 27 2017, 04:33 PM) *

Not sure if this one's any better: https://www.howtogeek.com/133405/how-to-get-classic-style-themes-back-on-windows-8/ (I've become used to the flat theme myself though).


Yeah, I saw that. Maybe I'll try it later. The most annoying now is the limited number of colors I can choose from. I found the Control Color setting that's hidden somewhere. There is a color mixer that lets me change 15 patches. But those colors are only used for window borders, start menu and taskbars. For the desktop I'm stuck with the presets.

See, I've got used to having my desktop in a special shade of gray. An image editor I use have the interface in different shades of gray only, even icons. That's so your perception of color won't be tinted. I found it so restful that I made windows like that too, as far as possible, different shades of gray for everything I could change.

Posted by: Christian J Sep 28 2017, 10:52 AM

Did you find the Metered Connection setting? I'm getting a bit worried since I'm about to change ISP.

QUOTE(pandy @ Sep 28 2017, 02:23 PM) *

The most annoying now is the limited number of colors I can choose from. I found the Control Color setting that's hidden somewhere. There is a color mixer that lets me change 15 patches. But those colors are only used for window borders, start menu and taskbars. For the desktop I'm stuck with the presets.

Not sure what you mean here, I can just right-click on the desktop, chose Personalize, and change Background Picture to solid color. You can make custom colors too.

QUOTE
See, I've got used to having my desktop in a special shade of gray. An image editor I use have the interface in different shades of gray only, even icons. That's so your perception of color won't be tinted. I found it so restful that I made windows like that too, as far as possible, different shades of gray for everything I could change.

If all else fails I guess you could create a solid color background image. tongue.gif


Posted by: pandy Sep 28 2017, 12:37 PM

[quote]
Did you find the Metered Connection setting? I'm getting a bit worried since I'm about to change ISP.
[/quote]

Yeah, I that's what I meant. It leads to exactly the same page as I posted a screen cap of before.


[quote]Not sure what you mean here, I can just right-click on the desktop, chose Personalize, and change Background Picture to solid color. You can make custom colors too.[/quote]

There's just 24 patches for the background and 48 for the chrome. No custom colors.

Attached Image

I found though google though that you can type "color control" in the Run box and you get to customize 15 patches for the chrome.



[quote]See, I've got used to having my desktop in a special shade of gray. An image editor I use have the interface in different shades of gray only, even icons. That's so your perception of color won't be tinted. I found it so restful that I made windows like that too, as far as possible, different shades of gray for everything I could change.[/quote]
If all else fails I guess you could create a solid color background image. tongue.gif
[/quote]

That never gets really solid. biggrin.gif

Posted by: pandy Sep 28 2017, 12:40 PM

I don't know why the quotes are missed upp either. cool.gif

Posted by: Christian J Sep 28 2017, 01:18 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Sep 28 2017, 07:37 PM) *

Yeah, I that's what I meant. It leads to exactly the same page as I posted a screen cap of before.

I get to "your" page by clicking "Change adapter options" further down. unsure.gif

I can also go to my page by clicking Ethernet (in the left column in my screenshot) after next clicking the connected network shown on the right.

QUOTE
There's just 24 patches for the background and 48 for the chrome. No custom colors.

That's very odd. Have you activated the product key yet? That and the Spybot utility are the only things I can think of that makes my installation unusual. Try both those things, maybe they unlock hidden menus. Did you actually install Creator's update, or just download it? Have you rebooted afterwards? cool.gif

Posted by: pandy Sep 28 2017, 02:54 PM

I have rebooted, but not done anything actively. Now they have announced a major update, so big that they let me schedule it... Maybe that's the thing?

I misunderstood you before. I did click Adapter Options. That's all I've got. I don't have the option you used.

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Posted by: Christian J Sep 28 2017, 03:53 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Sep 28 2017, 09:54 PM) *

Now they have announced a major update, so big that they let me schedule it... Maybe that's the thing?

Don't think so, if you already got Creator's, I got another one too the other day.

QUOTE
I misunderstood you before. I did click Adapter Options.

Don't do that. cool.gif

QUOTE
That's all I've got. I don't have the option you used.

What happens when you click on "Ethernet" in the left column, and then click on the connected network that shows up to the right?

Posted by: pandy Sep 28 2017, 04:03 PM

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Posted by: pandy Sep 28 2017, 04:58 PM

cool.gif cool.gif cool.gif cool.gif cool.gif

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Now to my next question. I suppose there is no way to review and choose the updates I want? It's nothing or all?

Posted by: Christian J Sep 28 2017, 04:58 PM

Where did you find it?

You can't choose updates, but maybe uninstall them individually afterwards.

Posted by: pandy Sep 28 2017, 05:01 PM

tongue.gif




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Posted by: pandy Sep 28 2017, 05:06 PM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Sep 28 2017, 11:58 PM) *

Where did you find it?


You know I possess seriously leet skillz. cool.gif

No, it was the big update. Actually, I thought I would pull down all updates, but the notification came before I had time to do it and since they said it would take time I scheduled it for later.

QUOTE
You can't choose updates, but maybe uninstall them individually afterwards.


So if there is one I want I'll get all the ones I've held back uptil then? Lovely. IPB Image

Talking about uninstalling, if I get rid of the silly apps and programs I don't want, they will just push them on me again, right?


Posted by: pandy Sep 28 2017, 05:17 PM

Better! biggrin.gif

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Can you explain to me how I can have two desktop.ini side by side though? unsure.gif

Posted by: Christian J Sep 28 2017, 05:27 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Sep 29 2017, 12:06 AM) *

Talking about uninstalling, if I get rid of the silly apps and programs I don't want, they will just push them on me again, right?

Haven't checked actually. At least they stay away from the Start menu.

It's perhaps a good idea to check settings after major updates, some say they can get reset.

QUOTE
Can you explain to me how I can have two desktop.ini side by side though?

I don't even get one ini, despite showing hidden files (I recall Vista displayed them, though). Is it something that the Classic Start menu added? unsure.gif

Posted by: pandy Sep 28 2017, 05:35 PM

Dunno. I found and installed that one right off. Have you tried it? I like it. If you Shift-click you get the normal windows 10 menu, both worlds.

Posted by: pandy Sep 28 2017, 05:39 PM

At least one of them is probably from the menu. But how can two identically named files exist in the same folder? Somthing must make each one unique but it isn't visible to us. blink.gif

CODE

[.ShellClassInfo]
LocalizedResourceName=@%SystemRoot%\system32\shell32.dll,-21769


CODE

IconResource=%SystemRoot%\system32\imageres.dll,-183
[LocalizedFileNames]
Internet Explorer.lnk=@%windir%\System32\ie4uinit.exe,-731


Well, thank you for your help. Tomorrow I'll get my old drives in and start sorting and installing. I decided not to rush this time.

Posted by: Christian J Sep 29 2017, 06:49 AM

I almost never use the Start menu myself, so it's just a minor issue to me.

QUOTE(pandy @ Sep 29 2017, 12:39 AM) *

But how can two identically named files exist in the same folder? Somthing must make each one unique but it isn't visible to us. blink.gif

No idea. Do they persist after rebooting? If not it might be a UI bug. Didn't understand the code you posted, where did you find it? unsure.gif

QUOTE
Tomorrow I'll get my old drives in and start sorting and installing. I decided not to rush this time.

I'd use a HDD for music and videos, it's fast enough for them. Save the SSD space for the OS and programs.


Posted by: pandy Sep 30 2017, 06:04 AM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Sep 29 2017, 01:49 PM) *

Didn't understand the code you posted, where did you find it? unsure.gif

Just the content of the ini files.

QUOTE

I'd use a HDD for music and videos, it's fast enough for them. Save the SSD space for the OS and programs.


That's what I'm planning. Sadly I don't think the SSD is big enough for all programs.

Posted by: Christian J Sep 30 2017, 09:43 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Sep 30 2017, 01:04 PM) *

Just the content of the ini files.

I got curious, and found this: https://superuser.com/questions/463946/why-do-i-have-identical-files-in-one-directory-in-windows-7

QUOTE
Sadly I don't think the SSD is big enough for all programs.

I put most of my large programs (games) on the HDD too, only a few favorites go on the SSD.


Posted by: pandy Oct 1 2017, 08:19 AM

I don't fully understand what solved that guys problem, but it seems it was related to not showing known extensions and/or system files. I of course turned all that on first thing. cool.gif

Yeah. I don't play games. Well, solitaire... blush.gif But maybe primarily put often used programs on the SSD and big, heavy programs. Must google how much free space Win10 needs. It and the crap that comes with takes up a lot of space to begin with. I've only installed K-Mel and FF and I've uninstalled some stuff too, and the disk is already 1/5 full, 42 GB used.

Sometimes I miss Win95 and the 1 GB HD I had back then. wub.gif

Posted by: pandy Oct 1 2017, 09:27 AM

This is what I mean when I say everything is white. K-mel at least has nice, classic icons, but its toolbar is white in Win10. For me it's a strain on the eyes. It's not clear what is the page/work area and what is the toolbar.

Attached Image

In k-mel's case I could fix it by replacing the optional (patterned) background image with a solid gray one. See? Much nicer. wub.gif
Alas that can't be done with most programs.

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Posted by: Christian J Oct 1 2017, 10:07 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 1 2017, 03:19 PM) *

Must google how much free space Win10 needs. It and the crap that comes with takes up a lot of space to begin with. I've only installed K-Mel and FF and I've uninstalled some stuff too, and the disk is already 1/5 full, 42 GB used.

I use about 150GB 90GB, but that's including a couple of games too. Don't know much about non-game programs that use a lot of space, maybe audio/video/3D editors, CAD and compilers (if you store the project files on the SSD).

Then maybe Windows will grab more and more for its System Restore feature. In Vista I had to delete old restore points now and then, not sure if that's changed in 10.

QUOTE
Sometimes I miss Win95 and the 1 GB HD I had back then

Must have cost a fortune to fill up with a metered dial-up connection. Of course one could also install programs from CDs that came with computer magazines. cool.gif

Posted by: Christian J Oct 1 2017, 10:09 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 1 2017, 04:27 PM) *

This is what I mean when I say everything is white.

My browsers have blue (my chosen system color) or gray toolbars (some turn white when not in focus though). Maybe it's a K-Mel bug.

Posted by: pandy Oct 1 2017, 07:53 PM

No, all programs are like that. I don't see where I can change the color of the toolbar? The color I choose (the darker gray) only affects the title bar.

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Posted by: Christian J Oct 2 2017, 05:19 AM

Seems you're right about Notepad's menu bar, but most of my other ones are light gray or blue even there (the ones that still let you view the menu bar, God bless their hearts). Maybe it's a system default that can be changed with another .ini?

Posted by: jokerrules Oct 4 2017, 03:49 AM

QUOTE
Sometimes I miss Win95 and the 1 GB HD I had back then. wub.gif


I hear you, man. I feel like every version of Windows has been worse than the one before. I finally broke down and got an iMac. happy.gif

Posted by: CharlesEF Oct 4 2017, 01:56 PM

I came across this https://www.tenforums.com/customization/43571-change-color-menubar-list-header.html. Seems you can define a new theme (instead of messing with the original). Hope this might help.

Posted by: pandy Oct 4 2017, 04:54 PM

Ah! Wonderful! I'm prepared to do some work once I've got things running. BTW, I had my finger on the ban button before I saw you were the poster. My eyes is always drawn to any link first. I misread and thought it said "teenforums". biggrin.gif

I'll continue to pick your brains, if I may.

I've already found that the Program Files (x86) folder isn't an entirely bad idea. I have, of course, installed programs in a folder named - taa-taa! - Programs as I've done since many years. And I've also heard that's a good idea to get around some annoyances with newer versions of Windows. I have this really old menu program called AppBar. I've dragged it from computer to computer and everything has worked straight off - until now. It's tiny bar with text based menus. I have everything I use often on it. Programs, folders, documents. I use to have it at the bottom. It autohides behind the taskbar. That didn't work. So I put it at the top of the screen instead. Everything worked, or so I thought. The paths that happened to be the same worked fine, but it turned out I couldn't edit the entries or add new one, got strange error messages. When I moved it to the x86 folder everything worked, even having it coexist with the taskbar. I'm so happy! wub.gif It's rather cool actually. I think that little program is from before Win 95 even.

To the point. I'm trying to get rid of the annoying prompts. I realize not allowing any program to run as administrator is actually a good idea. But how do I set the programs I trust to do it? Some have it in there own Options, but that doesn't seem to take. I find this little tutorial duplicated all over the web.
https://www.cnet.com/how-to/always-run-a-program-in-administrator-mode-in-windows-10/

Problem is I don't get a Shortcut tab when I rightclick an exe. I only have the ones in the screen cap and none of them have the setting I'm looking for. So is there another way to do this?

Attached Image

Posted by: pandy Oct 4 2017, 05:17 PM

Oh, I think they are talking about rightclicking a shortcut, not an exe... And I found this. The setting is also on the compatibility tab (when rightclicking an exe). Doesn't seem to work though, but maybe a reboot is needed.
https://www.tenforums.com/tutorials/3436-run-administrator-windows-10-a.html#option10

I also have problems with file associations not sticking. That seems to be common. The advice is to use Settings... Default Apps and to use the Set defaults by apps option. Problem with that, apart from sounding tedious, is that hardly any of the programs I've installed so far shows up there. Basically only FF and Adobe's programs do. wacko.gif

Posted by: pandy Oct 4 2017, 05:27 PM

OK, I've set the options both on the shortcut properties and on the exe properties. It doesn't work. Neither does rightclicking a shortcut and choosing Run as Aministrator. I have rebooted.

The stupid OS also made one of the two extra hard drives I put in Read Only. Why one and not the other? It has also made som files I moved from those HDs to C protected somehow, don't remember what it was called. The latter was easy to get rid of, but I hope I don't have to do that every time I move a file.

So far my experirience isn't great. ninja.gif

Posted by: Christian J Oct 4 2017, 06:08 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 4 2017, 11:54 PM) *

I've already found that the Program Files (x86) folder isn't an entirely bad idea. I have, of course, installed programs in a folder named - taa-taa! - Programs as I've done since many years. And I've also heard that's a good idea to get around some annoyances with newer versions of Windows.

Probably you already know this, but I think the Programs folder is for 64 bit programs and the x86 one is for 32 bit.

You can also right-click shortcuts for older programs and make them run in compatibility mode.

QUOTE
I also have problems with file associations not sticking. That seems to be common. The advice is to use Settings... Default Apps and to use the Set defaults by apps option. Problem with that, apart from sounding tedious, is that hardly any of the programs I've installed so far shows up there. Basically only FF and Adobe's programs do

Below the list there should be settings based on file type, protocol and app (how I hate that word, "app" dry.gif ).

Posted by: pandy Oct 4 2017, 08:05 PM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Oct 5 2017, 01:08 AM) *

Probably you already know this, but I think the Programs folder is for 64 bit programs and the x86 one is for 32 bit.

Yes.

QUOTE
You can also right-click shortcuts for older programs and make them run in compatibility mode.


That didn't help, you see. But moving the program to x86 did. So there must be a difference.

QUOTE

QUOTE
I also have problems with file associations not sticking. That seems to be common. The advice is to use Settings... Default Apps and to use the Set defaults by apps option. Problem with that, apart from sounding tedious, is that hardly any of the programs I've installed so far shows up there. Basically only FF and Adobe's programs do

Below the list there should be settings based on file type, protocol and app (how I hate that word, "app" dry.gif ).


I know. But there are lots of pages about this problem, since it seems very common. The consensus is that the way I described works when other ways don't. But if the "app" isn't even listed? And why aren't they listed? Some simple programs I confess that I just dragged over, but the properly installed ones aren't there either.

Another annoyance. Setting programs to run at startup doesn't always work either. Maybe because of that UAC thing?

This will drive me nuts! Anyway, two program associations now works. Several days after I did something about it, so I don't know what did the trick. Maybe information about any changes to the system needs to be sent to MS for approval before they are okeyed. ninja.gif

This is going slowly. It feels like accomplishing one thing a day is more than enough.

About apps, long ago I occasionally used that word as short for application. But nowadays one comes to think of mobile apps. And "they" makes a distinction between apps and programs. So how are apps different?

Posted by: Christian J Oct 5 2017, 04:49 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 5 2017, 03:05 AM) *

That didn't help, you see. But moving the program to x86 did. So there must be a difference.

I meant if the program didn't work in the x86 folder either.

QUOTE
The consensus is that the way I described works when other ways don't.

I didn't have too much problems with associations. Maybe a couple got lost in the beginning, not sure. Perhaps Windows updates screw things up, or maybe Windows intentionally resets them in a desperate last attempt to make you try the Edge browser? laugh.gif

QUOTE
But if the "app" isn't even listed?

Can't you use file type then? But if a program uses its own file extensions maybe you need to create such a file before the file type is recognized (just guessing). unsure.gif

QUOTE
Maybe information about any changes to the system needs to be sent to MS for approval before they are okeyed. ninja.gif

That wouldn't surprise me at all. You did disable all the Cloud features right? Windows Defender has a couple. Also beware of any third party antivirus programs you may use, maybe they work differently in Win10.

QUOTE
About apps, long ago I occasionally used that word as short for application. But nowadays one comes to think of mobile apps. And "they" makes a distinction between apps and programs. So how are apps different?

A "program" is something suspicious and complicated that you can find free on the wild web. An "app" is something safe and cool that you can buy in the app store. Seems Google and Apple started pushing the term for mobile, then it spilled over to Windows desktop as well together along with the mobile UI. Maybe Linux desktop used it earlier too, can't remember its terminology.

Posted by: pandy Oct 5 2017, 09:42 AM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Oct 5 2017, 11:49 AM) *

Can't you use file type then?

Point was that didn't work and when it doesn't the method where my programs don't show up is supposed to.

Of course, what I really want is that the choices made from within the program in question would stick. Every other way to do it seems cumbersome. Say, for IrfanView I want maybe 15 associations. What an ordeal do have to do them one by one. But at least some associations has started to work now. So maybe the problem will go away.


QUOTE
A "program" is something suspicious and complicated that you can find free on the wild web. An "app" is something safe and cool that you can buy in the app store. Seems Google and Apple started pushing the term for mobile, then it spilled over to Windows desktop as well together along with the mobile UI. Maybe Linux desktop used it earlier too, can't remember its terminology.


I'm beginning to think there's more to it. That the apps work in a different way somehow. I haven't had the strength to dig into things that isn't essencial to get this monster running yet.

I've tried to lower the UAC settings. Turning it off totally actually works. The other setting are all the same. Dimming the desktop? I don't ever see any dimming. IPB Image


Posted by: pandy Oct 5 2017, 09:45 AM

There are totatally idiotic answers at Windows Support about the UAC problem. Threads end with the problem still existing or they are solved by another user, not support. But I've already tried all of the suggested fixes.

There was one suggestion from a support person that I'll try tonight though. To create a new account with admin rights. Maybe it's my account that's somehow screwed up. Have to read up first though so I don't lock myself out. wink.gif

Posted by: pandy Oct 5 2017, 09:47 AM

Another thing. I remember you can't see the image in my sig. It's the same for me now. Windows firewall? I run the built in security suite for now.

Posted by: Christian J Oct 5 2017, 10:15 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 5 2017, 04:42 PM) *

I'm beginning to think there's more to it. That the apps work in a different way somehow. I haven't had the strength to dig into things that isn't essencial to get this monster running yet.

You mean Windows 10 apps in particular? Yes, if nothing else they might be part of the on-going migration from the old Control Panel to the new "Windows Settings". Some of the apps can't be uninstalled either.

QUOTE
Dimming the desktop? I don't ever see any dimming. IPB Image

The Night Light? I think it only changes color temperature.

Parts of the OS is definately buggy, though. For example, I found a checkbox that once ticked it can't be unticked. wacko.gif

QUOTE
Another thing. I remember you can't see the image in my sig. It's the same for me now. Windows firewall? I run the built in security suite for now.

No it appeared once I got my new computer, no idea why. Today it suddenly stopped working again, but this time it seems to be the server.

Posted by: pandy Oct 5 2017, 07:49 PM

Oh, OK. Then we both will see it soon maybe. tongue.gif

No, the dimming referred to what they talk about in the UAC CP. Sheesh, the thing looks like a webpage but text can't be copied. If you set it to the second level from the bottom it says blah blah (Do not dim my desktop) blah blah.


Posted by: Christian J Oct 5 2017, 08:00 PM

QUOTE
QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 6 2017, 02:49 AM) *

Oh, OK. Then we both will see it soon maybe. tongue.gif

Seems the whole site is down. I don't even remember what ACTA(?) is about, there have been so many new ones. mellow.gif


ACTA is over but I like the image. biggrin.gif

QUOTE
QUOTE
No, the dimming referred to what they talk about in the UAC CP. Sheesh, the thing looks like a webpage but text can't be copied. If you set it to the second level from the bottom it says blah blah (Do not dim my desktop) blah blah.

Oh that. When the UAC prompt is fired, the whole desktop background darkens.


I understand something like that is supposed to happen. But it doesn't. Not that I care.

blush.gif Well, I'm sort of typing with very small letters now. As I think I said, I installed things outside Program Files. I've even heard that is recommended, even for Win 10. But since I discovered some old programs didn't work outside x86 I thought maybe new programs dont work properly outide their proper location either. Classic Shell was one of the first I installed and since it messes with the shell... I uninstalled it and reinstalled it properly. Things brightened up a little.

File associations seem to work now, even if not instantly. Alas UAC is the same as before.

One step in the right direction anyway. One problem with association is that Photos has grabbed some image extensions and won't let go (I've only done images and various text files so far). In Control Panel\Programs\Default Programs\Set Default Programs\Set Program Associations the extensions it has grabbed can't be unticked. Sigh.

Posted by: pandy Oct 8 2017, 12:48 PM

Sorry, I think I wrote in your post. Lucky I quoted you. blush.gif

File assocations half work. For image files it turned out Photos didn't want to let go of some types. After uninstalling Photos I can associate PNG and JPG with Irfan, but only from the Windows CP, not with Irfan settings. Sigh.

Help files can't be opened in the x86 folder. I have to pull them out. So they can't be opened from the program's menu. Is this normal?

Posted by: Christian J Oct 8 2017, 02:21 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 8 2017, 07:48 PM) *

Sorry, I think I wrote in your post. Lycky I quoted you. blush.gif

Win10 is taking its toll. wacko.gif

QUOTE
I understand something like that is supposed to happen. But it doesn't. Not that I care.

It's an opacity effect, first seen in Vista AFAIK. Maybe the Classic Shell prevents such things.

QUOTE
For image files it turned out Photos didn't want to let go of some types. After uninstalling Photos I can associate PNG and JPG with Irfan, but only from the Windows CP, not with Irfan settings. Sigh.

I can change it in the file type list without uninstalling Photos. BTW I also noticed that you can change default programs both in Control Panel and Windows Settings --wonder if both work the same, or if one is better?

QUOTE
Help files can't be opened in the x86 folder. I have to pull them out. So they can't be opened from the program's menu. Is this normal?

No they work for me, at least with Irfanview.

Posted by: pandy Oct 8 2017, 07:21 PM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Oct 8 2017, 09:21 PM) *

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 8 2017, 07:48 PM) *

Sorry, I think I wrote in your post. Lycky I quoted you. blush.gif

Win10 is taking its toll. wacko.gif


It surely is. Soon I'm tired of computers altogether. I don't think I've ever used this much time to get things working. Earlier it has been a matter of finding files and installing programs and setting things up as I want. Tiresome but kind of a work of love at the sime time. This - I don't get anywhere. Just google the same things, read the same tips and am afraid to install too much in case I have to start over. It's just boring.

QUOTE
QUOTE
I understand something like that is supposed to happen. But it doesn't. Not that I care.

It's an opacity effect, first seen in Vista AFAIK. Maybe the Classic Shell prevents such things.


Nuh. Uninstalling it didn't change a thing.

QUOTE
QUOTE
For image files it turned out Photos didn't want to let go of some types. After uninstalling Photos I can associate PNG and JPG with Irfan, but only from the Windows CP, not with Irfan settings. Sigh.

I can change it in the file type list without uninstalling Photos. BTW I also noticed that you can change default programs both in Control Panel and Windows Settings --wonder if both work the same, or if one is better?


I could too (I think) but things didn't stick. Associate file types with my text editor didn't stick earlier either but after nn numbers of reboots it did. Go figure.

QUOTE
QUOTE
Help files can't be opened in the x86 folder. I have to pull them out. So they can't be opened from the program's menu. Is this normal?

No they work for me, at least with Irfanview.


Checking... Irfan works for me too, but I have the 64 bit version.

Another funny thing. They say turning UAC off stop "native apps" from working, including the start menu. Huh, no. The start menu is still there. Oh well, one bug to be grateful for I suppose. IPB Image

Posted by: Christian J Oct 9 2017, 06:07 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 9 2017, 02:21 AM) *

I don't think I've ever used this much time to get things working. Earlier it has been a matter of finding files and installing programs and setting things up as I want. Tiresome but kind of a work of love at the sime time. This - I don't get anywhere. Just google the same things, read the same tips and am afraid to install too much in case I have to start over. It's just boring.

For me it was relatively painless, but maybe I haven't customized as much as you.

QUOTE
Nuh. Uninstalling it didn't change a thing.

It could be a driver issue as well. After I bought my new monitor, my old Vista PC sometimes started with the screen slightly darkened. Sometimes half the screen was dark. Similar things happened with the Win10 PC until remembered to install the monitor driver.

Also check that opacity is enabled in Settings > Personalization > Color. BTW there's also a setting to "Show accent color on the following surfaces" --maybe that affects those white program toolbars you got?

QUOTE
I could too (I think) but things didn't stick. Associate file types with my text editor didn't stick earlier either but after nn numbers of reboots it did. Go figure.

I suspect Windows updates reset some preferences. Perhaps one needs to recheck the privacy settings after every update as well.

QUOTE
Checking... Irfan works for me too, but I have the 64 bit version.

See if running the x86 programs in compatibility mode works.

QUOTE
Another funny thing. They say turning UAC off stop "native apps" from working, including the start menu.

Sounds strange. Who says that, MS?

Posted by: pandy Oct 9 2017, 05:38 PM

QUOTE

QUOTE

I don't think I've ever used this much time to get things working. Earlier it has been a matter of finding files and installing programs and setting things up as I want. Tiresome but kind of a work of love at the sime time. This - I don't get anywhere. Just google the same things, read the same tips and am afraid to install too much in case I have to start over. It's just boring.

For me it was relatively painless, but maybe I haven't customized as much as you.


I've just fiddled with colors. It's the other things that is the main problem. Associations, drag and drop, that Run as Administrator doesn't work so I have to turn UAC off...

QUOTE

QUOTE

Nuh. Uninstalling it didn't change a thing.

It could be a driver issue as well. After I bought my new monitor, my old Vista PC sometimes started with the screen slightly darkened. Sometimes half the screen was dark. Similar things happened with the Win10 PC until remembered to install the monitor driver.


But shouldn't screen drivers come with Windows updates? And could they affect the things I have problems with? I don't know what other drivers it could be.

QUOTE

Also check that opacity is enabled in Settings > Personalization > Color. BTW there's also a setting to "Show accent color on the following surfaces" --maybe that affects those white program toolbars you got?


I saw those options before but didn't understand what they do. I'll have a new look.

QUOTE

QUOTE

I could too (I think) but things didn't stick. Associate file types with my text editor didn't stick earlier either but after nn numbers of reboots it did. Go figure.

I suspect Windows updates reset some preferences. Perhaps one needs to recheck the privacy settings after every update as well.


Well, text files (I mean that in a wide sense) have disassociated themselves again. Some still have the Notetab icon and nothing happens when clicking them. Some, for example .txt, are back to Notepad.

QUOTE

Checking... Irfan works for me too, but I have the 64 bit version.
See if running the x86 programs in compatibility mode works.


Should that be need it when they are in the x86 folder? But I think I've ticked that box too, for the troublesome ones anyway.

QUOTE

QUOTE

Another funny thing. They say turning UAC off stop "native apps" from working, including the start menu.

Sounds strange. Who says that, MS?


Yes. MS and everyone else. That's one of the most common questions. People have the same problem as I do and when they turn UAC of they lose the start menu. But maybe that's something MS has fixed later.

Posted by: Christian J Oct 10 2017, 01:32 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 10 2017, 12:38 AM) *

But shouldn't screen drivers come with Windows updates?

No idea. The first two weeks my new PC would sometimes display a band of artifacts on the screen before Win10 started, then the PC rebooted automatically. At first I suspected some hardware glitch. It ended once I installed the monitor's own driver, but a Win update was also installed at the same time, so I'm not sure what fixed it.

This also reminds me that Win10 didn't allow my Samsung scanner driver for "security reasons".

QUOTE
Well, text files (I mean that in a wide sense) have disassociated themselves again.

You mean it didn't happen because of an update? What else could have caused it? A reboot? A "housekeeping" process?

QUOTE
Some still have the Notetab icon and nothing happens when clicking them.

Not even a prompt to choose program? I always got that.

QUOTE
Should that be need it when they are in the x86 folder? But I think I've ticked that box too, for the troublesome ones anyway.

I got one program working by clicking the button "Run compatibility troubleshooter" (which downloaded an older version of .NET Framework), but in that case the help files were not the problem.

BTW the compatibility dropdown only lets you choose from Vista and newer Win OS, don't know what that means for even older programs.

QUOTE
Yes. MS and everyone else. That's one of the most common questions. People have the same problem as I do and when they turn UAC of they lose the start menu. But maybe that's something MS has fixed later.

Aha, you enabled the Administrator account? I haven't felt the need for that yet. True, now I read that those modern apps need UAC to work, apparently there's a fix: https://winaero.com/blog/fix-apps-and-start-menu-do-not-open-under-administrator-account-in-windows-10/

Posted by: Christian J Oct 12 2017, 03:22 PM

Regarding the opacity, can you see the desktop wallpaper through the Taskbar? It's almost black, but should be slightly translucent.

Posted by: pandy Oct 13 2017, 01:05 AM

QUOTE
QUOTE
Well, text files (I mean that in a wide sense) have disassociated themselves again.

You mean it didn't happen because of an update? What else could have caused it? A reboot? A "housekeeping" process?


I don't know. I haven't been notified about any update, but I don't know if I'm supposed to be or if they happen in the background.

QUOTE

QUOTE
Some still have the Notetab icon and nothing happens when clicking them.

Not even a prompt to choose program? I always got that.


No. Dead.

QUOTE
QUOTE
Should that be needed it when they are in the x86 folder? But I think I've ticked that box too, for the troublesome ones anyway.

I got one program working by clicking the button "Run compatibility troubleshooter" (which downloaded an older version of .NET Framework), but in that case the help files were not the problem.

OK. I think I ran that once but didn't get anything out of it.

QUOTE
BTW the compatibility dropdown only lets you choose from Vista and newer Win OS, don't know what that means for even older programs.

For once my fucked up installation is better than yours! I have all of them back to Win95. biggrin.gif

QUOTE

Aha, you enabled the Administrator account? I haven't felt the need for that yet. True, now I read that those modern apps need UAC to work, apparently there's a fix: https://winaero.com/blog/fix-apps-and-start-menu-do-not-open-under-administrator-account-in-windows-10/


Yes. I even created a second Admin account in case something was wrong with the first. Didn't help. But UAC is off and I still have the start menu. Nothing is as described with this.

New for today - all extensions are hidden. Not only "known" ones. I have invented some of my own. I'm starting to feel like saying censored words. ninja.gif

Posted by: pandy Oct 13 2017, 01:06 AM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Oct 12 2017, 10:22 PM) *

Regarding the opacity, can you see the desktop wallpaper through the Taskbar? It's almost black, but should be slightly translucent.


I don't know since my desktop is dark gray too. biggrin.gif
I can't see any icons through it. Should I?

Posted by: Christian J Oct 13 2017, 04:45 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 13 2017, 08:05 AM) *

I don't know. I haven't been notified about any update, but I don't know if I'm supposed to be or if they happen in the background.

I think I always get notifications in the Action Center, otherwise they should be listed in the Update History. The last Windows update was on 10/10, I installed it yesterday.

QUOTE
No. Dead.

No response from right-clicking either? Have you looked for registry errors?

QUOTE
For once my fucked up installation is better than yours! I have all of them back to Win95. biggrin.gif

It seems to depend on how old the program is, now I found one with Win95 too.

QUOTE

Yes. I even created a second Admin account in case something was wrong with the first. Didn't help. But UAC is off and I still have the start menu. Nothing is as described with this.

New for today - all extensions are hidden. Not only "known" ones. I have invented some of my own. I'm starting to feel like saying censored words. ninja.gif

Something does seem broken. You might check the registry, SSD, RAM etc for errors. BTW you did hear about CCleaner being compromised a few days ago?


Posted by: Christian J Oct 13 2017, 04:46 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 13 2017, 08:06 AM) *

I can't see any icons through it. Should I?

Yes, icons and open programs.

Posted by: pandy Oct 13 2017, 05:28 AM

I don't. I may have set it to not be transparent, I don't remember. If there is such a setting, I probably used it.

Posted by: pandy Oct 14 2017, 12:49 AM

You also have HDD drives, don't you? I have Windows and the few programs I've gotten around to install on C (SSD) and documents on D (HDD) and think I'll have photos and some other largish stuff on E (HDD).

I notice that when I save an ordinary text document on D it sometimes takes time, maybe 5 or 6 seconds. On XP it was instant. Is this Win10's doing? Does it need to perform some stupid security checks when not saving on C? I can't think it's because of the HDD itself. It was fast enough a few weeks ago...

Posted by: Christian J Oct 14 2017, 04:14 AM

No that's not normal. Is that one of your old HDDs (from XP?), did it come with the PC or did you buy it and install yourself?

Posted by: CharlesEF Oct 14 2017, 11:55 AM

I think that delay in saving files is because Win10 defaults to save on OneDrive (cloud). See https://support.office.com/en-us/article/Files-save-to-OneDrive-by-default-in-Windows-10-33da0077-770c-4bda-b61e-8c8e8ca70ac7

Posted by: pandy Oct 14 2017, 07:02 PM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Oct 14 2017, 11:14 AM) *

No that's not normal. Is that one of your old HDDs (from XP?), did it come with the PC or did you buy it and install yourself?


It's from my old puter. It was D there too and saving was instant.

Posted by: pandy Oct 14 2017, 07:03 PM

QUOTE(CharlesEF @ Oct 14 2017, 06:55 PM) *

I think that delay in saving files is because Win10 defaults to save on OneDrive (cloud). See https://support.office.com/en-us/article/Files-save-to-OneDrive-by-default-in-Windows-10-33da0077-770c-4bda-b61e-8c8e8ca70ac7


No *beep*! And that can't be turned off? But if I save to C (SSD), saving is instant. How does that add up?

Posted by: pandy Oct 14 2017, 07:05 PM

Beep should be another word for *beep*. cool.gif

I'm seriously contemplating to get Win7 and start over. I haven't installed many programs so no big deal. It' would buy me at least to years and by then Win10 may be superseded by something more reasonable - or something even worse. wacko.gif

Excuse me for any typos. I'm for once quite pleasantly pissed. cool.gif

Posted by: pandy Oct 14 2017, 07:06 PM

s*h*i*t ninja.gif

Posted by: CharlesEF Oct 14 2017, 08:09 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 14 2017, 07:03 PM) *

QUOTE(CharlesEF @ Oct 14 2017, 06:55 PM) *

I think that delay in saving files is because Win10 defaults to save on OneDrive (cloud). See https://support.office.com/en-us/article/Files-save-to-OneDrive-by-default-in-Windows-10-33da0077-770c-4bda-b61e-8c8e8ca70ac7


No *beep*! And that can't be turned off? But if I save to C (SSD), saving is instant. How does that add up?

I think it only affects documents and pictures. Yes, according to the link it can be changed to PC only.

Posted by: pandy Oct 14 2017, 08:44 PM

I meant to read it tomorrow. But I read it now. I've already disabled the cloud thingy. Then its settings shouldn't matter. Or?

I don't find Cloud in settings. So I can't peak at its settings or turn it on again. Maybe I'll figure it out tomorrow. blush.gif

Posted by: Christian J Oct 15 2017, 04:41 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 15 2017, 02:02 AM) *

It's from my old puter. It was D there too and saving was instant.

An old HDD like that seems likely to start making read/write errors. This may or may not be the cause of those strange icon glitches as well. Don't know if the delays are a sign it's about to break down, but run chkdsk on it just in case. I'd probably get a new one anyway (and make backups of course).

A few other ideas (but I don't know much about this):

- File system bugs between WinXP and Win10.

- Incompatibility between the new PC and older HDD models.

- A loose connector somewhere.

- Insufficient cooling.

Posted by: Christian J Oct 15 2017, 04:45 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 15 2017, 02:03 AM) *

QUOTE(CharlesEF @ Oct 14 2017, 06:55 PM) *

I think that delay in saving files is because Win10 defaults to save on OneDrive (cloud). See https://support.office.com/en-us/article/Files-save-to-OneDrive-by-default-in-Windows-10-33da0077-770c-4bda-b61e-8c8e8ca70ac7


No *beep*! And that can't be turned off?

Sure it can, in any case I think you need to associate your devices with a MS account for Onedrive to work. I uninstalled it first thing. wacko.gif

Posted by: CharlesEF Oct 15 2017, 11:26 AM

Well, maybe that is not your problem after all. Just thought I'd mention it.

Posted by: pandy Oct 15 2017, 05:52 PM

It can happen on E as well, it's just that I haven't saved there more than a few times. Both drives aren't likely to go bad at the same time. And it doesn't always happen. Oh well, it seems Win10 just doesn't like me. It's mutual. glare.gif

Posted by: CharlesEF Oct 15 2017, 10:20 PM

Is there a chance the 2 drives have spun down (power saver mode), from not being used? If yes, then it would take some time to spin back up to save a file

Posted by: Christian J Oct 16 2017, 04:28 AM

Also pandy mentioned one of the disks were Read Only when first installed, makes you wonder if it's related somehow.

Posted by: pandy Oct 16 2017, 05:13 AM

QUOTE(CharlesEF @ Oct 16 2017, 05:20 AM) *

Is there a chance the 2 drives have spun down (power saver mode), from not being used? If yes, then it would take some time to spin back up to save a file


Yes, that could be the case sometimes, but not always. Or maybe, if it happens faster than I'm used to. I'm not very productive on this machine as you may have understood, so I don't save that often. Is there a setting for that, for individual drives I mean? I'll try to search the peculiar settings app (is it an app?)
.

Posted by: pandy Oct 16 2017, 05:18 AM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Oct 16 2017, 11:28 AM) *

Also pandy mentioned one of the disks were Read Only when first installed, makes you wonder if it's related somehow.


Yes and that was actually D.

BTW I have been contemplating to get a new drive as you suggested, a second SSD. I have room for that. And sort of divide documents between drives. Keep the more active stuff on the SSD and have the current D more for storage. But they are pricy those things and the computer alone was a setback. Alternatively get a new HDD. I can always use the current D for storage outside the computer. I have one of those USB racks, don't remember what they are called.

Posted by: pandy Oct 16 2017, 05:21 AM

Talking about that, Win10 still doesn't let me get access to the occasional folder of file. But I found a reg hack that added "Take ownership" to the context menu and that fixes it every time. The peculiar thing is that I ran it on every folder when I installed it. wacko.gif

Posted by: pandy Oct 16 2017, 05:27 AM

Imagine I actually hated XP too at first. I was sort of forced to get it, for the same reason I got 10 now. But I must confessed that in that case I was influenced by the XP hate that was widespread at the time. I don't think it was bad at all. But 2000 was my favourite. And actually 95 for its ease of use. cool.gif

Posted by: Christian J Oct 16 2017, 10:11 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 16 2017, 12:13 PM) *

Is there a setting for that, for individual drives I mean? I'll try to search the peculiar settings app (is it an app?)

I don't know, I only have one HDD. Go to Settings > Power > Additional settings (top right) > Change plan settings > Change advanced power settings, and there you can't find the settings for turning off the HDD. blink.gif I use the High Performance preset, and in there the HDD is set to turn off after 0 minutes (=never). IIRC it's healthier for HDDs to run all time.

QUOTE
BTW I have been contemplating to get a new drive as you suggested, a second SSD. I have room for that. And sort of divide documents between drives. Keep the more active stuff on the SSD and have the current D more for storage. But they are pricy those things and the computer alone was a setback. Alternatively get a new HDD.

When it comes to speed, SSD is not worth it for document or even movies, IMO. Maybe it's more reliable than HDD though, time will tell.

QUOTE
I can always use the current D for storage outside the computer. I have one of those USB racks, don't remember what they are called.

Run chkdsk on it just in case, even though it usually takes hours. If it's starting making errors maybe it's not reliable anymore. My old PC's HDD started getting more errors the last couple of years, I recall it messed up the .ini file for my Opera browser.

QUOTE
Talking about that, Win10 still doesn't let me get access to the occasional folder of file.

Can't remember any such problems, except that XAMPP was not allowed access to the Documents folder for security reasons.

QUOTE
Imagine I actually hated XP too at first.

Seems we found the common denominator! tongue.gif I liked both XP and Vista. Win95 was terrible due to the slow hardware at the time, other than that I can't remember much about it.

Posted by: CharlesEF Oct 16 2017, 12:47 PM

Other than the setting in the 'Power Plan', I'm not sure how to prevent other drives from going to sleep. Maybe that 1 setting controls all HDD's?

Posted by: Christian J Oct 16 2017, 01:59 PM

Separate controls sounds like overkill to me. But will all HDDs be awakened at the same time, or separately when needed?

Posted by: CharlesEF Oct 16 2017, 07:34 PM

Seems to me 1 setting can control all drives. I did not write Windows and MS didn't ask for my help. But, if I did write it I would use 1 setting for all drives. The sleep clock starts when a drive is finished reading/writing. The sleep clock resets when the drive is accessed. Therefore, only drives that are needed will wake up, not all at once.

Posted by: pandy Oct 17 2017, 06:07 AM

I think they awake separately, at least they used to. I could hear that on my old machine. Probably on this too, but I haven't payed attention to it.

Posted by: Christian J Oct 18 2017, 04:27 AM

What sleep settings did you use? Any progress?

BTW there's a major update due any day now...

Posted by: pandy Oct 18 2017, 07:51 AM

I haven't changed that. It's set to 30 minutes.

I'm actually contemplating reinstalling Windows. I don't think all these problems (and I haven't mentioned all) feels normal. I ran the error checking tool at an early stage. It found errors and said it corrected them. Made no difference. But errors in a fresh install doesn't feel normal.

Posted by: Christian J Oct 18 2017, 10:22 AM

Leave the HDDs running to rule out that possibility.

There's a Windows Reset option in Updates and Security > Recovery, that supposedly reinstalls Windows but still lets you keep your files (so it seems different from the old Restore feature). It can also be found in Defender > Device performance & Health > Fresh Start. Might be worth a try (though one wonders why it's called different things in different places).

But if you got a hardware problem, reinstalling Windows won't help. It doesn't have to be the HDDs either. You might check the RAM with memtest86, don't know how to test other components alas.

Also, reinstalling Windows won't help if there's something wrong with the Windows installation file/disc, so you might download a new copy just in case.


Posted by: pandy Oct 18 2017, 04:34 PM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Oct 18 2017, 05:22 PM) *

Leave the HDDs running to rule out that possibility.

You mean disable sleep?

QUOTE
There's a Windows Reset option in Updates and Security > Recovery, that supposedly reinstalls Windows but still lets you keep your files (so it seems different from the old Restore feature). It can also be found in Defender > Device performance & Health > Fresh Start. Might be worth a try (though one wonders why it's called different things in different places).


From what I've read Reset is not reinstall. It just sets everything back to the state it was before you started to fiddle with things.

QUOTE
But if you got a hardware problem, reinstalling Windows won't help. It doesn't have to be the HDDs either. You might check the RAM with memtest86, don't know how to test other components alas.


I don't think it's a hardware problem. Don't see how that could have this effect. Or all of these effects, I should say. BTW another thing is that all of a sudden keyboard shortcuts (to run programs) are lost. They are back after reboot. unsure.gif

QUOTE
Also, reinstalling Windows won't help if there's something wrong with the Windows installation file/disc, so you might download a new copy just in case.


Yeah, that what I thought I would do. Put it on a USB stick. Or there seems to be an option to run the installation directly if Win10 is already installed. Hmm. Can't format then, I suppose. But that shouldn't be needed.

I'll see. I'll give it a little more time. It's actually like kind of vacation not not have access to all your programs. If I wait too long the amount of email that will pour down will kill me though. Just use webmail for now.

Posted by: Christian J Oct 18 2017, 05:56 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 18 2017, 11:34 PM) *

You mean disable sleep?

Yes. Disable all the energy save features, except for the monitor maybe. Seems the Advanced power save settings let you do things to PCI Express and USB as well. unsure.gif

QUOTE
From what I've read Reset is not reinstall. It just sets everything back to the state it was before you started to fiddle with things.

Apparently Reset and Fresh Start are two different things: https://www.howtogeek.com/265054/how-to-easily-reinstall-windows-10-without-the-bloatware/ but yes the linked page doesn't sound like even Fresh Start actually downloads anything new.

There are also several Troubleshoot programs you might try, but I suppose one needs to know what to troubleshoot first.

QUOTE
I don't think it's a hardware problem. Don't see how that could have this effect. Or all of these effects, I should say.

Those duplicate desktop.ini icons (and the unclickable ones) sounded like disk write errors from what I've read (are they still like that?). Maybe lost permissions could be due to corrupted config files as well, but admittedly I barely know anything about HDDs. Also, would any of those files be kept on the HDD and not the SSD? I know even less about SSDs...

If the RAM isn't working properly maybe data can get corrupted before it's saved to disk, but then I guess you'd also get more serious problems like unstable programs.

QUOTE
BTW another thing is that all of a sudden keyboard shortcuts (to run programs) are lost. They are back after reboot. unsure.gif

Is it a USB or wireless keyboard, and is the connection OK? Have you installed its driver (probably needed for special buttons)?

Posted by: pandy Oct 18 2017, 06:56 PM

QUOTE
QUOTE
I don't think it's a hardware problem. Don't see how that could have this effect. Or all of these effects, I should say.

Those duplicate desktop.ini icons (and the unclickable ones) sounded like disk write errors from what I've read (are they still like that?). Maybe lost permissions could be due to corrupted config files as well, but admittedly I barely know anything about HDDs. Also, would any of those files be kept on the HDD and not the SSD? I know even less about SSDs...


All icons are on the desktop, so on C, the SSD. The not clickable icons were file icons. File assosiations didn't stick, but that corrected itself apart from Photos not wanting to let go, but I uninstalled it to punish it. There may still be problems with other file types. I haven't gotten very far...


QUOTE
If the RAM isn't working properly maybe data can get corrupted before it's saved to disk, but then I guess you'd also get more serious problems like unstable programs.


Yeah, everything is just dandy, except Windows don't want to obey me.

QUOTE

QUOTE
BTW another thing is that all of a sudden keyboard shortcuts (to run programs) are lost. They are back after reboot. unsure.gif

Is it a USB or wireless keyboard, and is the connection OK? Have you installed its driver (probably needed for special buttons)?


USB and it has never needed any drivers. If the keyboard were the problem I wouldn't be able to type and I am. Windows all of a sudden seems to forget the keybord shortcuts I've assigned to different programs. All of them, at the same time. When I reboot it's fine again. It may or may not happen the next session.

Posted by: pandy Oct 18 2017, 07:40 PM

Forgot to say, the two desktop.ini files are normal. Here's one page that explains it.
https://www.howtogeek.com/198704/why-are-there-two-desktop.ini-files-on-windows-desktops/
Still don't get how two files with exactly the same name can exist side by side. Or that you don't have two.

Posted by: Christian J Oct 19 2017, 05:22 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 19 2017, 01:56 AM) *

USB and it has never needed any drivers. If the keyboard were the problem I wouldn't be able to type and I am. Windows all of a sudden seems to forget the keybord shortcuts I've assigned to different programs. All of them, at the same time.

AFAIK mice with special buttons only work if you install special software, are not all keyboards like that too? OTOH your keyboard special buttons shouldn't work intermittently then.

QUOTE
When I reboot it's fine again. It may or may not happen the next session.

I used to have intermittent USB connection problems on my Vista PC, but it didn't affect my USB mouse, just other peripherals like cameras. Maybe it was because I didn't "disconnect" them properly in the Task Manager.

QUOTE
Forgot to say, the two desktop.ini files are normal.

Good, that just leaves the HDD file icons.

Posted by: pandy Oct 19 2017, 07:06 AM

I'm not talking about special keys (but the few I have work as they should without installation). I'm talking about assigning keyboard shortcuts to icons. Like I want Notetab to start when I press CTRL + ALT + N.

It's basically the same as with file associations. Didn't want to stick at first and now Windows all of a sudden can forget.

Posted by: Christian J Oct 19 2017, 09:33 AM

Yes that sounds more like a software issue. Definately not the keyboard, and if all these things were from multiple disk errors the HDD ought to crash any second - unless all the problems boil down to one single user profile file that's broken - could that be the case?

Posted by: pandy Oct 19 2017, 06:22 PM

Alas no. I created another user with admin status early on. Same scheiße.

I've decided to reinstall. This can't be normal. I've heard other people have no problems to run x86 programs outside their assigned folder. That's pretty essencial for programs that use ini files, especially if you want them to be portable. I haven't been able to figure out where Windows keeps the shadow copy it's supposed to create and use instead of the real one. It most centainly don't have the same name as the original. This alone will be a problem for me in the long run.

But I'll be on computer vacation a little longer. I actually enjoy it. And I want to have enough free time to do things properly.

Posted by: Christian J Nov 7 2017, 05:14 PM

Any luck?

Now I had Win10 prompt me to choose a program for opening a file that I had already associated with a program. The short list of suggestions in the prompt of course only included Windows' own "apps". But after re-selecting the correct program in the "default by file extension" list it suddenly worked again. Don't know if it's a coincidence this happened soon after installing the large fall update.

Posted by: pandy Nov 7 2017, 05:24 PM

Now you know how it feels...

I haven't done anything about it yet. I've had other things on my mind. But I will reinstall. Once I get around to it.

Posted by: Christian J Nov 8 2017, 04:02 AM

It's happened to me a few times before when the PC was new (right after the 2017 spring Creator's update), but not until now after that. That's what makes me suspect the updates. I also recall reading others reporting the same thing. If it's a common phenomenon maybe reinstallation of Win10 won't help.

Does it happen frequently for you?


Posted by: pandy Nov 8 2017, 06:27 AM

Yes and no. The associations I have stick. At least if the file is on C, it works now. But I still can't set associations from within the programs themselvs, not in most cases anyway.

Another thing that doesn't work that I haven't meantioned is to make programs start with Windows. It works with maybe 1/3 of the programs I've tried with. No go with the rest. Neither using the programs' Options nor adding an icon to the strartup folder works.

Yeah, as I said, every problem I've had seems common (the associations, the icons, the UAC thing...). But I've got them all. That's why I think the installation may be wonky.

I've stuck with the Windows firewall and anti virus for now. Isn't it ironic that they force OS updated on you but you have to update the virus definitions manually? That's about the only thing I would be fine with if it happened without my consent. wacko.gif

Posted by: Christian J Nov 8 2017, 08:12 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Nov 8 2017, 12:27 PM) *

I still can't set associations from within the programs themselvs, not in most cases anyway.

Haven't tried that myself, IIRC. Online tutorials don't seem to mention that method either (from a quick search).

QUOTE
Another thing that doesn't work that I haven't meantioned is to make programs start with Windows. It works with maybe 1/3 of the programs I've tried with. No go with the rest. Neither using the programs' Options nor adding an icon to the strartup folder works.

Haven't tried that either. Do the programs show in the Startup tab in Task Manager?

QUOTE
Yeah, as I said, every problem I've had seems common (the associations, the icons, the UAC thing...). But I've got them all. That's why I think the installation may be wonky.

Or you're a power user. cool.gif I for one haven't fiddled that much with my installation.

QUOTE
I've stuck with the Windows firewall and anti virus for now. Isn't it ironic that they force OS updated on you but you have to update the virus definitions manually? That's about the only thing I would be fine with if it happened without my consent. wacko.gif

Seems to happen if you're on a Metered connection. It might be better if Windows searched for Defender updates but let you decide when to download them.


Posted by: pandy Nov 8 2017, 11:11 AM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Nov 8 2017, 02:12 PM) *

QUOTE(pandy @ Nov 8 2017, 12:27 PM) *

I still can't set associations from within the programs themselvs, not in most cases anyway.

Haven't tried that myself, IIRC. Online tutorials don't seem to mention that method either (from a quick search).



Never? Most programs have it in options. For example, I want IrfanView associated with basically all image files except RAW formats. There's a heck of a lot of image formats you can encounter even if I don't create images in most of them myself. So much easier to do it from within Irfan than going through the mess with one extension at the time. Same with Notetab. I want everything text to be openened in Notetab.

QUOTE
QUOTE
Another thing that doesn't work that I haven't meantioned is to make programs start with Windows. It works with maybe 1/3 of the programs I've tried with. No go with the rest. Neither using the programs' Options nor adding an icon to the strartup folder works.

Haven't tried that either. Do the programs show in the Startup tab in Task Manager?


If I've put them there. Still doesn't work mostly. If it doesn't work and I have tried to do it from the program's settings the icon doesn't show up.

QUOTE
QUOTE
Yeah, as I said, every problem I've had seems common (the associations, the icons, the UAC thing...). But I've got them all. That's why I think the installation may be wonky.

Or you're a power user. cool.gif I for one haven't fiddled that much with my installation.


But it's all basic stuff. Except maybe UAC that's just stupid. Doesn't everyone want to open files by clicking or drag and drop?


QUOTE

QUOTE
I've stuck with the Windows firewall and anti virus for now. Isn't it ironic that they force OS updated on you but you have to update the virus definitions manually? That's about the only thing I would be fine with if it happened without my consent. wacko.gif

Seems to happen if you're on a Metered connection. It might be better if Windows searched for Defender updates but let you decide when to download them.


Ah, that could be it. But Windows does just that for me. Tells me there is an update. Defender is the AV thing, right?
Still stupid. It's a small file, or should be anyway. What does it matter if the connection is metered?

Posted by: Christian J Nov 8 2017, 12:16 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Nov 8 2017, 05:11 PM) *

Never?

Not on Win10, IIRC.

QUOTE
I want IrfanView associated with basically all image files except RAW formats. There's a heck of a lot of image formats you can encounter even if I don't create images in most of them myself. So much easier to do it from within Irfan than going through the mess with one extension at the time.

I found things like .mp3 in Irfanview's list as well, so I opted for setting them individually. I almost never encounter unusual file formats, but when I do I might actually prefer Windows to ask me than having them open in the completely wrong program.

BTW, now I saw that Irfanview's file association menus says "START AS ADMIN(!)" at the top, so that seems important...

QUOTE
Haven't tried that either. Do the programs show in the Startup tab in Task Manager?
QUOTE
If I've put them there. Still doesn't work mostly. If it doesn't work and I have tried to do it from the program's settings the icon doesn't show up.

Are these the same programs that cause a UAC prompt when you start them? And does any of this have something to do with unsigned programs? I bet many older small programs are unsigned.

QUOTE
QUOTE
Or you're a power user. cool.gif I for one haven't fiddled that much with my installation.

But it's all basic stuff. Except maybe UAC that's just stupid. Doesn't everyone want to open files by clicking or drag and drop?

I was thinking maybe you change more of that basic stuff than most users. As for the UAC, I understand it's not just an extra warning, but also prevents privilege elevation by design. In Vista you could disable that kind of lockdown, but again I haven't tried that with 10.

QUOTE

Ah, that could be it. But Windows does just that for me. Tells me there is an update. Defender is the AV thing, right?
Still stupid. It's a small file, or should be anyway. What does it matter if the connection is metered?

Sometimes the files are large, like 10MB.



Posted by: pandy Nov 9 2017, 07:22 AM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Nov 8 2017, 06:16 PM) *

QUOTE
I want IrfanView associated with basically all image files except RAW formats. There's a heck of a lot of image formats you can encounter even if I don't create images in most of them myself. So much easier to do it from within Irfan than going through the mess with one extension at the time.

I found things like .mp3 in Irfanview's list as well, so I opted for setting them individually. I almost never encounter unusual file formats, but when I do I might actually prefer Windows to ask me than having them open in the completely wrong program.

BTW, now I saw that Irfanview's file association menus says "START AS ADMIN(!)" at the top, so that seems important...


I don't find that option. But it doesn't matter since no other way to make programs run as admin works...

You can choose Images Only. And even ticking the boxes one by one is a lot faster than doing it through the Windows settings. Which doesn't always work for me either. Me, since I want most image formats, choose Images Only and then uncheck the few I don't want.

QUOTE

QUOTE
Haven't tried that either. Do the programs show in the Startup tab in Task Manager?
QUOTE
If I've put them there. Still doesn't work mostly. If it doesn't work and I have tried to do it from the program's settings the icon doesn't show up.

Are these the same programs that cause a UAC prompt when you start them? And does any of this have something to do with unsigned programs? I bet many older small programs are unsigned.


I don't know. Almost all programs got the UAC prompt. I turned it off and don't remember now.

QUOTE
QUOTE
QUOTE
Or you're a power user. cool.gif I for one haven't fiddled that much with my installation.

But it's all basic stuff. Except maybe UAC that's just stupid. Doesn't everyone want to open files by clicking or drag and drop?

I was thinking maybe you change more of that basic stuff than most users. As for the UAC, I understand it's not just an extra warning, but also prevents privilege elevation by design. In Vista you could disable that kind of lockdown, but again I haven't tried that with 10.


Come on, clicking on files and drag and drop are advanced use? Everyone, except maybe you, does it. tongue.gif

QUOTE
QUOTE

Ah, that could be it. But Windows does just that for me. Tells me there is an update. Defender is the AV thing, right?
Still stupid. It's a small file, or should be anyway. What does it matter if the connection is metered?

Sometimes the files are large, like 10MB.



10 MB isn't large these days. If that's too much the user can't browse the web either. I'd say it corresponds to about 10-15 pages at a newspaper site.

Posted by: Christian J Nov 9 2017, 10:00 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Nov 9 2017, 01:22 PM) *

I don't find that option. But it doesn't matter since no other way to make programs run as admin works...

It's just a text message, I suppose it means you should start Irfanview as admin. But it's not mentioned in the Help (which only talks about XP), while the Help's FAQ says:

Q: If I start IrfanView on Windows 7, the system asks me each time about the start as Administrator, why?

A: Somebody, not IrfanView, set the program properties to "Run as administrator". Disable this option (right click on IrfanView icon/EXE, Properties, tab: Compatibility) and run IrfanView normally. Actually, no option should be selected in the Compatibility tab for IrfanView.

unsure.gif

QUOTE
You can choose Images Only.

Oh, missed that.

QUOTE
I don't know. Almost all programs got the UAC prompt. I turned it off and don't remember now.

I only get it for old and/or small ones, and sometimes when updating browsers.

QUOTE
Come on, clicking on files and drag and drop are advanced use? Everyone, except maybe you, does it. tongue.gif

No I meant maybe you customize a lot of simple things, which adds to the bug count.


Posted by: Christian J May 20 2018, 05:39 PM

Now I noticed that you can make the Windows scrollbars always show (instead of shrinking) in Settings > Ease of access > Display. Don't know if this was new to feature update 1803 or I just missed it before.

There are also new privacy settings in 1803 where you can decide if apps like Cortana should be allowed access to your contacts, document, pictures etc (all enabled by default).


Posted by: pandy May 20 2018, 07:02 PM

QUOTE(Christian J @ May 21 2018, 12:39 AM) *

1803


And that is? wacko.gif

Posted by: Christian J May 21 2018, 05:27 AM

https://www.howtogeek.com/340688/whats-coming-in-windows-10s-redstone-4-update-available-march-2018/

If you use Windows Update it's sneakily downloaded along with the latest security patches, so you can't avoid getting it unless you download the patches manually through your browser.

Posted by: pandy May 22 2018, 08:15 AM

Ah. I don't have that yet. But I must have gotten some update lately because the other day my UAC settings were changes and yesterday I discovered the Take Ownership extension was removed when I needed it.

Posted by: Christian J May 22 2018, 09:29 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ May 22 2018, 03:15 PM) *

Ah. I don't have that yet.

I got it in the download list a couple of weeks ago (I've waited a little before actually installing it).

After installation I at first got no sound from my headphones, fortunately simply unplugging them fixed it.

Posted by: Christian J May 31 2018, 02:22 PM

In Settings > Privacy > General, the button "Show me suggested content in the settings app" was enabled. I've read it was added in the September 2017 Creator's update, but I can't remember seeing it before (if so it would have been disabled).

In the Settings > Privacy / App Permissions list, there are switches I haven't noticed before (all were "on"). They will say e.g. "Camera access for this device is on" in plain text, followed by a gray button called "Change". Here are pictures: https://privacyamp.com/knowledge-base/configuring-privacy-settings-after-setup/. Note how the gray color makes it easy to miss when you scan the settings pages for blue "On" buttons --you may even interpret the gray color as an "off" state. I assume this is done on purpose.

Posted by: pandy May 31 2018, 05:09 PM

I have an "important" update pending now. I guess that it's the one you talk about.

Posted by: Christian J May 31 2018, 05:26 PM

In my list of installed updates it's called "Feature update to Windows 10, version 1803". Took about half an hour to install after download.

Posted by: pandy May 31 2018, 06:26 PM

I'll keep it off a while then.

I must have gotten something recently. My UAC settings have changed two times. I had to turn the thing off because none of the methods to make it stop asking every time worked. What I really should do is reinstall Windows. But I procastinate.

Oh, Win2K, why did you become obsolete... sad.gif

Posted by: Christian J Jun 1 2018, 06:24 AM

A few days after this update a Firefox addon stopped working properly, no idea if by coincidence. Disabling and re-enabling the addon fixes it, but then it stops working again about a day later. Neither Firefox nor the addon have been updated during this time, I even installed a forked version of the addon and it misbehaved in the same way.

Posted by: pandy Jun 5 2018, 12:47 PM

Great. Now MS has decided to clean the dropdown list belonging to the Run box and nothing new sticks to it. Wonderful. Why did they keep the dropdown at all if it can't be used?

Trouble is I kind of liked Windows, as it was, and I'm not too fond of Linux for my daily use. I have never had a Mac, but apart from the sad fact Mac is out of my price range, my impression has been Mac is even more dumbed down than Windows. Add to that I have programs I love and don't want to be without. What to do? sad.gif

Posted by: Christian J Jun 5 2018, 01:01 PM

EDIT: now I found the Run box by right-clicking the Start button. And yes, my dropdown is empty too.

Maybe this fixes it:
https://www.askvg.com/bug-fix-run-mru-history-list-is-always-empty-in-windows-10/
https://www.askvg.com/fix-show-most-used-apps-option-grayed-out-in-windows-10-start-settings/

Posted by: pandy Jun 5 2018, 03:52 PM

Thanks. It worked. I needed both. Why the heck do they do this?

Posted by: Christian J Jun 5 2018, 05:03 PM

They want us to give up trying to disable all the default slurp features, that way they can call it "optional". laugh.gif

Posted by: Christian J Nov 15 2018, 02:55 PM

I've begun using a VPN in Windows 10. Setup was simple, but it disconnects every time I reboot or uses sleep mode, and it's an annoyance to reconnect the VPN manually everytime I start Windows. Is there any simple way to do it automatically?

Posted by: pandy Nov 15 2018, 04:00 PM

Dunno. I've used different VPN services for many years, but I don't use them constantly and I've never felt the need for them to start with the computer.

I guess you need some kind of automation. Google found for example this.
https://superuser.com/questions/737799/how-to-connect-to-a-vpn-at-startup

Posted by: Christian J Nov 15 2018, 04:55 PM

Thanks. Kinda strange that there's no setting for it though. Is it atypical to want to run a VPN constantly?

(I also suppose this is more of a general Windows issue, and not limited to 10).

Posted by: pandy Nov 16 2018, 06:08 PM

Probably. Did it work?

Posted by: Christian J Nov 17 2018, 03:34 AM

Yes it worked once I got the connection arguments right (a Windows domain is not the same as the VPN's server address and I needed neither). blush.gif

How about employees connecting their work laptops/mobiles to the company VPN every working day, wouldn't they want to be connected automatically too? But maybe their company's IT department sets that up for them the same way I did.

Posted by: Christian J Mar 25 2019, 04:24 PM

Now Win10 build 1809 forced itself into my computer.

A new thing is adding history to the Snipping tool, which will later be changed into an "App" apparently.

Just like after 1803, I got no sound in my headphones until I unplugged and plugged them in again. Also the desktop background-image was missing, and the background color changed to one I used long time ago (but not the default color). wacko.gif

Posted by: pandy Mar 26 2019, 07:33 AM

For me the last update changed the order of the items of the drop down menu that comes up when I click the the Turn Off button. I *think* it previously reordered itself so the most used option was at top. Anyway, Turn Off was at top so I only needed two clicks (while one would be preferred...). Now Switch User (which I of course never use) is on top and I have to scroll down to do what I want. Which I most often forget. Or I click the wrong choice by mistake because I'm used to this being a quick and painless maneuver. Small thing compared to the rest of the crab, still annoying.

Posted by: pandy Mar 26 2019, 10:12 AM

What do to? Win 10 has made me go off computers. Maybe that's their goal? Don't take an interest, just use what's offered, use the PC as an entertainment machine.

Problem is I'm not too fond of Linux either. When I ran Ubuntu it felt like it was in an eternal Beta. And I'm kind of attached to some Windows programs and most of all to the plethora of programs there is to choose from. Mac has never tempted me. Only their hardware does.

Posted by: Christian J Mar 26 2019, 10:55 AM

Do you mean the button in the Start menu? I only get the following items, in this order:

CODE
sleep
shut down
restart

--no "switch user" there, and no scrollbar. unsure.gif

Personally I use Alt+F4 to turn off the computer, and that menu still shows "shut down" as the default in the dropdown.

Posted by: Christian J Mar 26 2019, 11:45 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Mar 26 2019, 04:12 PM) *

What do to? Win 10 has made me go off computers.

In my case I blame my lack of interest on Google (its script libraries) and Facebook (its effect on independent web forums), Win10 is mostly innocent.

QUOTE
Maybe that's their goal? Don't take an interest, just use what's offered, use the PC as an entertainment machine.

Absolutely. In particular, pay for your apps in their app store. I wouldn't call it a goal though, most Win users don't have a deeper interest than that to begin with.

QUOTE
Problem is I'm not too fond of Linux either. When I ran Ubuntu it felt like it was in an eternal Beta.

When I tried Linux Mint it suddenly stopped receiving updates after a year, and I'd have to reinstall a completely new version. This wasn't clear at all before I downloaded. As for Ubuntu, let's not forget: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unity_(user_interface)#Privacy_controversy

Posted by: pandy Mar 26 2019, 11:51 AM

It's that menu I'm talking about.

I forgot I have Classic Start Menu installed (but that hasn't updated, windows has). It has sort of a double menu. If I just hover Turn Off I get an ordinary menu with the options (just an ordinary submenu). If I click I get the same menu as I get with Alt + F4. The options are ordered the same any way I do it.

I have more options than you. I know I had to do something to get Hibernate back. The other options I don't remember. That was annoying too, not being able to easily hibernate. I didn't use it much earlier when startup was slow. I just let the computer sleep. But with the SSD disk startup is so quick I use it most of the times I leave the computer. Saves some electricity. If I don't do it manually I have set it to automatically first sleep after 5 minutes or something and then hibernate after 15 or 20 or something like that. But when I'm very energy conscious and leave home I do it manually. tongue.gif


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Posted by: CharlesEF Mar 26 2019, 01:53 PM

I myself don't care for the Win10 interface but the OS seems stable enough. Microsoft doesn't care about us old time users they're too busy training the next generation of monkeys to accept their crap. Not to mention they have completely monetized Windows. You don't even get the 4 games that all previous versions had.

Posted by: Christian J Mar 26 2019, 03:13 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Mar 26 2019, 05:51 PM) *

It's that menu I'm talking about.

I forgot I have Classic Start Menu installed (but that hasn't updated, windows has).

Sounds like the update has broken the addon somehow. Maybe there's an update for the latter as well.

Posted by: Christian J Mar 26 2019, 03:17 PM

QUOTE(CharlesEF @ Mar 26 2019, 07:53 PM) *

You don't even get the 4 games that all previous versions had.

Yes that's total greed, especially considering that you can find the same games for free in the Google Play store (even without ads).

Posted by: pandy Mar 26 2019, 05:22 PM

Windows may be crap, but then what isn't? Mac seems even more dumbed down (if possible). Linux, well, depends on what you are doing I guess. But I've actually found Windows pretty tolerable for a user that wants to do a little of this and a little of that like myself (yes, I do watch movies and telly too! tongue.gif). Up to now, that is.

Posted by: pandy Mar 26 2019, 06:14 PM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Mar 26 2019, 09:13 PM) *

QUOTE(pandy @ Mar 26 2019, 05:51 PM) *

It's that menu I'm talking about.

I forgot I have Classic Start Menu installed (but that hasn't updated, windows has).

Sounds like the update has broken the addon somehow. Maybe there's an update for the latter as well.


No. As you see the screen dump is of the Windows menu I get with Alt + F4. It's no biggie, I'll relearn, it's just annoying that things change all the time!

Posted by: Christian J Jul 1 2019, 05:10 AM

Maybe we've already covered this, but now I wanted to change "program associated with file type", and the menu in Settings only let me choose new programs from the Microsoft Store! Fortunately you can still right-click directly on a file and use open with > choose another app > more apps, but I wonder for how long?

Posted by: pandy Jul 1 2019, 06:09 AM

I haven't got around to reinstalling yet. A friend with a laptop is supposed to help me, but I procrastinate... What I hate most with reinstalling is if something goes wrong I have to use my phone to google, since I currently have only one computer. Besides that, he's better than I with things like that. I still procrastinate. Probably because of lost interest in the whole thing.

Anyhow, I have to use sendto all the time, since Windows don't let me use drag and drop with almost any programs and associations doesn't work either... ninja.gif

Posted by: pandy Sep 30 2019, 02:47 PM

Do you know of a trick that enables group closing of several windows?

Say you have 20 folders open. In earlier versions of Windows we could click button after buttons in the task bar while holding down Shift (I think it was), right click and close the whole lot in one fell swoop. I hate that seems impossible now.

On a brighter note, an update a month or so ago sorted some of my problems. Alas it added a new one. It placed the task bar on top of everything and it wouldn't hide. Covered the status bar in programs if I used full window. Miraculously it behaves normally today for the first time since the update. Hope it sticks, because none of the tricks I found on the Net worked.

Posted by: Christian J Oct 1 2019, 06:01 AM

Not quite, but by hovering(?) you can get a horizontal row of thumbnails of the opened windows to appear just above the task bar. Each one has a close [x] button, so if you just keep clicking on the left-most one you can close all of them with reletively small effort.

Maybe it's also possible to do something if you can manage to display opened window thumbnails in a vertical stack, like you could do in Win7, but I don't know if/how that works in Win10.

Posted by: CharlesEF Oct 1 2019, 07:17 AM

Have you tried using 'Task View'? When used it will show you all open windows. You can then close each one. Not sure about a batch close.

Posted by: pandy Oct 1 2019, 10:21 AM

It's the batch close I miss. It's tedious to click each X. sad.gif

@Christian I never used Win7, so I don't know about that feature.

Posted by: pandy Oct 1 2019, 10:45 AM

BTW, that hovering thing... I've trigger that from time to time by accident. But now that I want to do it I can't. Some trick to it?

[EDIT]
Ah - get it! There must be several windows of the same type. tongue.gif
Anyway, when I close one window the thumbs hide and I have to hover again. Cumbersome.

[EDIT 2]
And it only works sometimes... But that was sort of expected. sad.gif

Posted by: Christian J Oct 1 2019, 10:56 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 1 2019, 05:21 PM) *

@Christian I never used Win7, so I don't know about that feature.

I recall it came from Vista, but I promptly disabled it. This is what it looks like (the big blue image): https://www.tenforums.com/tutorials/20989-change-taskbar-thumbnail-threshold-show-list-windows-10-a.html

Posted by: Christian J Oct 1 2019, 11:08 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 1 2019, 05:45 PM) *

Anyway, when I close one window the thumbs hide and I have to hover again. Cumbersome.

Do you close the left-most of the hovered thumbnails? Once it's closed, the next one in line will move into place and you can close that one too without moving the mouse.

Posted by: pandy Oct 1 2019, 03:10 PM

I don't know. Can't make it happen again now. IPB Image

I never used Vista either. Win95, Win2000 and XP are all I've tried. 2000 I really liked and XP wasn't as bad as people said.

Posted by: pandy Oct 9 2019, 03:11 AM

I'm going nuts. I started to use that picture album program I talked about, PhoA, in spite of its limitation because I couldn't find a newer program that does the same thing. I haven't used it before on this machine but seemingly there was no problem. I started to organize pictures from a recent trip. As I use it I have one "folder" for images straight out of the camera with sub folders for each day. Then I have the same folder tree for edited images. Then I organize those I want in albums on different themes. All edited ones goes in an album for this trip, some may fit in others also. I'm just saying this to explain how the thing works and the number of places an image can end up in.

Sooo... I saved my new creation at an early stage when I had only added the first few pictures. Then I probably haven't saved for days and I haven't closed the program. I never turn off my computer the normal way anymore. I just let it go into hibernation after x minutes of inactivity. Now I wanted to close PhoA so I hit Save and did so. When I opened the file again all my work was gone, except for those first few images. I then discovered if I use Save As with a new file name, it's really saved. If I Save As with the same file name and overwrite the old file or just Save, all is lost again.

OK, the program hasn't been updated since 2005. But everything else works and I've used it since before 2005. This isn't PhoA's fault. It's Win10 acting up again! Thank heavens this is the only program this has happened with. angry.gif

Now what will I use as a photo album? 'Cause I'll never remember to do the Save As trick each time. sad.gif

Posted by: pandy Oct 9 2019, 03:49 AM

As usual when you post about it you find the answer yourself. Well, sort of an explanation anyway. And a new peculiar mystery. biggrin.gif

My first file was named Main.phoa and that's also the file I tried to overwrite. A also saved copies as Main1.phoa, Main2.phoa and so on. I just now discovered I could actually make changes and save them if I opened one of those other files. I guess I only tried with Main.phoa before.

Next I noticed there was an extra file created for Main.phoa. Main.phoa.tmp. I deleted it and tried again. No go - and the .tmp file was recreated. As soon as I save Main.phoa or open one of the other phoa files and try to Save As Main.phoa that .tmp file is recreated - and Main.phoa doesn't change.

No .tmp file is created for the other phoa files and they work as expected, no problem. I have the hard drives from my old computer in this one with the documents from the old machine untouched. I have a number of .phoa files on there, but not a single .phoa.tmp to be found anywhere. None of the files are named Main though.

What is this? Is it something fishy with the name "Main"? The .tmp file is binary, so I don't get anything out of reading it. It's not documented in the PhoA help file. I searched for tmp, temp, template... But could Windows really be doing this?

Posted by: Christian J Oct 9 2019, 05:12 AM

When I download audio files through Firefox I sometimes get an extra temp (temporary?) file, while the real one is downloading. As soon as the download is complete, the temp is deleted.

Posted by: pandy Oct 9 2019, 07:23 AM

Yeah, but that's something different. This sh*t didn't delete itself. It kept recreating itself.

I don't get it. All my other phoa files work fine now.Main.phoa wasn't even the default file that came with the program. That one is fine too. I've googled reserved file names, forbidden file names and so on and there's nothing close to Main. And if there had been I would probable not have been allowed to create it in the first place.

In practice the problem is solved, but I will brood over this for a long time. unsure.gif

Posted by: pandy Oct 9 2019, 07:39 AM

Since I've talked about it so much I'll show you a screen cap of the wonder program. biggrin.gif

Attached Image

The interface is simple, as you see. Good thing, that. The benefits are very good sorting capabilities and the ability to easily add an image to as many groups as you wish without the disk files ever being touched. There are also "Views" that automatically group all images according to the criteria you choose. Without touching the folders you have created, of course. I just wish the author would develop it further. But I guess these days simple, clean looking and effective tools aren't much wished for. wacko.gif

Actually, you should install it and create a file named Main just to test if the same thing happens to you! wub.gif
https://yktoo.com/en/software/phoa/

Posted by: pandy Oct 9 2019, 07:49 AM

Is it you that have edited my sig BTW? laugh.gif

Posted by: Christian J Oct 9 2019, 08:13 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 9 2019, 02:23 PM) *

Yeah, but that's something different. This sh*t didn't delete itself. It kept recreating itself.

A bug maybe? Have you tried running the program in say XP Compatibility mode?

QUOTE
I will brood over this for a long time. unsure.gif

laugh.gif

QUOTE
Since I've talked about it so much I'll show you a screen cap of the wonder program. biggrin.gif

Your gray masking in the menu is a bit translucent, use a solid color instead. cool.gif

QUOTE
The interface is simple, as you see. Good thing, that. The benefits are very good sorting capabilities and the ability to easily add an image to as many groups as you wish without the disk files ever being touched. There are also "Views" that automatically group all images according to the criteria you choose. Without touching the folders you have created, of course. I just wish the author would develop it further. But I guess these days simple, clean looking and effective tools aren't much wished for. wacko.gif

Could Windows tags be used for this? https://www.groovypost.com/howto/tag-photos-documents-windows-10/

But personally I'd probably just create different galleries with HTML files. blush.gif

QUOTE
Actually, you should install it and create a file named Main just to test if the same thing happens to you! wub.gif
https://yktoo.com/en/software/phoa/

I don't dare. sad.gif

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 9 2019, 02:49 PM) *

Is it you that have edited my sig BTW? laugh.gif

No, but now I had to check. ninja.gif


Posted by: pandy Oct 9 2019, 08:35 AM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Oct 9 2019, 03:13 PM) *

Your gray masking in the menu is a bit translucent, use a solid color instead. cool.gif


Bah! No way you can see it says Nudie pics. mad.gif

QUOTE
But personally I'd probably just create different galleries with HTML files. blush.gif


That takes time, even if you automate it. What if you want to reorder the images? This is mainly a tool for keeping track of your images. After a while it becomes hard to find that specific image you want. I used PhoA all the time my last photo period. Add everything at once and copy image to every group it may belong to. I don't have that many groups yet, but I will.

I do make HTML albums occasionally. But that's for pretty. If I want to show (off) pictures to others maybe.



QUOTE
QUOTE
Actually, you should install it and create a file named Main just to test if the same thing happens to you! wub.gif
https://yktoo.com/en/software/phoa/

I don't dare. sad.gif


Wimp. Actually, I think you'd like it if you tried it, so it wouldn't be only a favor to me. wub.gif

QUOTE

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 9 2019, 02:49 PM) *

Is it you that have edited my sig BTW? laugh.gif

No, but now I had to check. ninja.gif


Can we check that? How?

Posted by: Christian J Oct 9 2019, 09:18 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 9 2019, 03:35 PM) *

What if you want to reorder the images?

I suppose the Windows tags could be used for that. Just give each image multiple tags. A lot of initial work, of course.

QUOTE
Actually, I think you'd like it if you tried it

I've only taken about 5 pictures that are decent, so I have no real use for it. happy.gif

QUOTE
Can we check that? How?

Through the user's Edit Profile.

Posted by: pandy Oct 9 2019, 11:43 PM

Windows tags? wacko.gif

QUOTE
I've only taken about 5 pictures that are decent, so I have no real use for it.


There is that. But don't you still want to keep you images and be able to find them?

QUOTE
Through the user's Edit Profile.


I don't see any log there? unsure.gif

Posted by: pandy Oct 9 2019, 11:51 PM

Found the tag thing. Wasn't aware of that. Thanks for the tip.

But how do you make use of it, other than using Windows search? Do you mean that you can programmatically somehow access those tags if you want to change your HTML album? Not that I see how tags could be useful then.

Posted by: pandy Oct 10 2019, 12:11 AM

BTW I created a new document and saved it as Main.phoa. It's perfectly normal, saves as it should and no .tmp file is created.

I'm pondering to fish that .tmp file up from the bin and zip it up. Maybe some day I'll find a person that can tell me what it is. ninja.gif

Posted by: pandy Oct 10 2019, 12:22 AM

I'll be... I restored the .tmp file. Main.phoa still behaved normally and I could see the .tmp file there beside it. Then I decided to upload the .tmp it to https://filext.com/file-extension/TMP . And it wasn't there anymore. Gone!

Maybe it really was some kind of temp file that wasn't deleted as it should have been? In that case I don't understand why temp files aren't created for the other phoa files. But an explanation could be that the program uses the .tmp file rather than the .phoa file if a .tmp file exists. The file size was almost identical, so maybe it was kind of a copy of the first edition of the .phoa file.

Crap. I should have zipped a copy before I did anything else. I could have compared the binaries. ninja.gif

Posted by: Christian J Oct 10 2019, 04:42 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 9 2019, 10:11 AM) *

I probably haven't saved for days and I haven't closed the program. I never turn off my computer the normal way anymore. I just let it go into hibernation after x minutes of inactivity.

Maybe there's a memory leak or other bug in the photo program that got worse the longer it was left running? I never use hibernation anymore since I got a PC with SSD.

Posted by: Christian J Oct 10 2019, 04:45 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 10 2019, 06:43 AM) *

don't you still want to keep you images and be able to find them?

Nah. wacko.gif

QUOTE
QUOTE
Through the user's Edit Profile.


I don't see any log there? unsure.gif

Not a log, I just checked if the HTML for your broken squid sig pic was still there, and it wasn't.

Posted by: Christian J Oct 10 2019, 04:48 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 10 2019, 06:51 AM) *

Found the tag thing. Wasn't aware of that. Thanks for the tip.

But how do you make use of it, other than using Windows search?

No idea, maybe that's all you can do.

Posted by: pandy Oct 10 2019, 06:38 AM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Oct 10 2019, 11:42 AM) *

Maybe there's a memory leak or other bug in the photo program that got worse the longer it was left running?


How would that explain the .tmp file?

QUOTE
I never use hibernation anymore since I got a PC with SSD.


I never used it BEFORE I got an SSD. biggrin.gif

Before I just let the computer go to sleep during the day and turned it off when I went to sleep or was out. Booting took too long time. Now when it's so quick I think it's great to be able to just leave things I'm working with and find them as they were when I boot up. Probably save some energy too. Compared to sleep mode, that is.

Posted by: pandy Dec 20 2019, 11:59 PM

If anyone reads and wants to know the thrilling end of the story... tongue.gif

I did find a replacement for PhoA. It's called http://www.google.com/url?q=https://digikam.org/&sa=U&ved=2ahUKEwiMxpbU-sXmAhXPjKQKHU_QARwQFjAAegQIBxAB&usg=AOvVaw16taRfuP-wA6hdZDQCJmiQ and is open source, so free of charge. It's of course a lot more sleek than the 20 year old PhoA and does a lot more. Only complaint is that it sorts groups (called tags) alphabetically while I could order them as a pleased in PhoA. But the advantages of modern software shine in many ways.

It's a little buggy in some respects. I had to reinstall it and after that everything except geo tagging worked as it should and that doesn't matter because I have another program that does that better and much faster.

It's a little annoying that standard features are often given fancy names nowadays. For example what I would call Folders or Folder View (i.e. you see your actual file system) digiKam calls Albums. I was asked to enter a base directory and then it happily imported everything from there, or so I thought. So I started to rename, regroup and move things around in what I thought was my virtual library. Only to realize I was actually working with the real disk files. Oops! Well, I was able to get everything back to where it should be.

It's fast. It has a lot of sorting and labeling options and some editing options that I'm never going to use. And, as long as you understand that Albums are actually physical folders it doesn't touch your files. Neither does it copy them and build a huge database from them.

Posted by: pandy Dec 21 2019, 12:14 AM

It's a long time since I was this titillated about hunting for and trying new software, so I think I need to talk a little about geo tagging too. biggrin.gif

I'm in need of a new RAW converter and am trying out darktable among others (also open source actually). I think it is a keeper. I may buy something later on, but for now it does more than I need.

Since I was only interested in the RAW process I didn't look at other features, but now I saw one called Map. It's a dream come true! I've tried a lot of geo tagging programs and web based services. The web things actually work best. The principle is the same if you don't already have a KML file or similar with tracked coordinates. You put a pin on a map and the coordinates of the pin are added to the image file's EXIF. Click, click, click. Next image, new pin and so on.

Here's where darktable shines. It lets you drag multiple images from a "film roll" to different locations on the map. So you can do a whole bunch of images in one fell swoop! Instead of a couple of minutes per image it takes a couple of minutes for a whole day's or week's worth of shooting.

It's worth getting the program for this alone if you have the need for this kind of geo tagging.
https://www.darktable.org/

Since it open source, I think a little promotion is OK, right? tongue.gif

Posted by: Christian J Jul 3 2020, 02:07 PM

Finally installed Feature Update 1909. Anything to look out for?

So far I've just noticed that the Search app now lists your most used programs and files.

Posted by: pandy Jul 3 2020, 02:30 PM

Don't know. Seems 1909 is a pending update for me.

So far the updates have only caused improvements to my crappy windows install. At long last I can turn off UAC and for example file associations work a little better. Drag and drop still doesn't work with my most used programs.

Posted by: Christian J Jul 3 2020, 03:29 PM

Oh, I had to unplug and replug the headphones again, in order to get any audio. This happens after every feature update. rolleyes.gif

Posted by: CharlesEF Jul 4 2020, 12:33 AM

Version 2004 is around the corner. It has already been offered to my computer once but failed to install. It hasn't been offered again, yet.

Posted by: pandy Jul 4 2020, 02:12 AM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Jul 3 2020, 10:29 PM) *

Oh, I had to unplug and replug the headphones again, in order to get any audio. This happens after every feature update. rolleyes.gif


Funny. I've had a problem a while that I didn't have before. Not always, but sometimes, especially if I watch SVTPlay (but I don't see how it could be their fault), the sound disappears if I switch between speakers and headphones. I need to unplug, stop what I'm watching, start the video again and then plug in again. Then the sound is back.

Posted by: Christian J Jul 15 2020, 05:54 PM

When I logged in to Windows after an update, the new Edge browser autostarted, tried to login to my (nonexistent) Microsoft Account and opened a "welcome" slideshow. When trying to close the browser, it wasn't possible with the normal controls. The [X] button was disabled. Right-clicking and choosing Close Window in the taskbar was disabled too. Finally I could get rid of it from Task Manager.

Posted by: pandy Jul 15 2020, 06:45 PM

Cozy. IPB Image

Posted by: pandy Jul 21 2020, 02:11 AM

I got that too now, but I only got a Welcome Back page and I was allowed to close the browser.

Posted by: pandy Jul 31 2020, 08:37 AM

So far the updates have made improvements to my wonky windows installation. For example file associations work better now. Text files open in Notetab and I don't have to right click and use Send to. Drag and drop still only works with selected programs, of course it doesn't work with the programs I use the most... I have been able to turn off UAC a while also.

But the latest update seems to have screwed some things up, mostly setting. Just now I discovered the Run thingie didn't save history again. You (Christian) helped me with the before. Now I found the setting myself. The odd thing is it's been several days since I installed a Windows update and this happened just now. I use Run all the time, so I'm sure.

Why do they mess with settings? It's so annoying! ninja.gif

Posted by: Christian J Jul 31 2020, 02:30 PM

When trying to login the other day I got a splash screen saying:

QUOTE
Let's finish setting up your device

Your device needs to connect to a few more Microsoft services to help you work more easily and securely across all your devices.

...followed by ads for Onedrive, Microsoft 365 subscriptions, etc. In the bottom left corner was a small, ominous "Skip for now" link that closed it. This showed up after a Windows Defender update, maybe they sneaked it in there or maybe it came with the 1909 update but was set on a timer. Is the aggressive marketing from the "Get Windows 10" campaign making a comeback?

I also seem to have a lost a couple of file associations, but most seem to work.

Posted by: pandy Aug 17 2020, 06:22 PM

Where the *** is Edge? I actually haven't looked for it before. There was (of course) a shortcut on the desktop and I've used that. But now I wanted to point another program to Edge. If I look at Properties for the shortcut the Target field is greyed out and can't be scrolled so I can read all of it. When I search disk for microsoftedge Everything finds 5701 objects! ohmy.gif

Figured out the file I want probably is called microsoftedge.exe, but there are several of that too. Does the thing keep updating itself and older versions are saved? Why? And which one should I use? This one?
"C:\Users\user\AppData\Local\Microsoft\WindowsApps\MicrosoftEdge.exe"


Attached Image

Posted by: CharlesEF Aug 17 2020, 07:49 PM

My Edge is located at '"C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application\msedge.exe" --profile-directory=Default'. This is copied from my taskbar shortcut.

Posted by: pandy Aug 17 2020, 08:08 PM

You mean the Quick Launch bar? Then I guess you found it and placed it there yourself?

This is very strange. I don't have any msedge.exe. And the shortcut I have doesn't lead to one of those simply called microsoftedge.exe either. I can't be bothered to try to type this, so another screencap it is. Notice the exclamation mark. The part of the path that's visible doesn't match any of the microsoftedge.exe I found.

Oh my. Win95, why did you leave me?






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Posted by: pandy Aug 17 2020, 08:31 PM

Jesus almighty...
https://superuser.com/questions/950435/where-is-microsoft-edge-located-in-windows-10-how-do-i-launch-it/950457

"Unfortunately the MicrosoftEdge.exe can not be run by double clicking and creating a normal shortcut will not work."
That probably means it's very hard to launch it from another program that isn't MS-centric.

Just find microsoftedge.exe is one suggestion. Well, nice. If there weren't a bunch of them. And why is yours called msedge.exe? Can you run that one by clicking on it? Or create a shortcut to it for that matter?

Posted by: CharlesEF Aug 18 2020, 12:20 AM

If I remember correctly, I pinned it to the quick launch bar from the desktop icon after it was installed. I put all my browsers/development apps handy during writing/testing. I do have a 'Microsoft Edge' entry in the menu. It is listed in the M section. You don't?

Yes it runs fine, I can even copy the path I posted into a 'Run' box and it works.

Posted by: pandy Aug 18 2020, 04:57 AM

I do have it on the start menu, but since Properties aren't available on the start menu I can't find the path from there either.

I have Classic Start Menu installed. I dragged the shortcut from the desktop to there. Didn't help. The path is still grayed out.

Well, I guess it isn't possible to launch Edge from another program with a simple path.

Posted by: CharlesEF Aug 18 2020, 12:24 PM

One thing I forgot to mention. To see 'Properties' from a quick launch icon you need to hold down the SHIFT key then right click the icon. At the same time, I've seen icons where is doesn't work.

Posted by: pandy Aug 18 2020, 12:27 PM

I needn't. Just rightclick is enough. Seems everything is different for us. biggrin.gif

But it doesn't help. The path field is grayed out whatever I do. I suspect it isn't a path, more of a command maybe.

Posted by: CharlesEF Aug 18 2020, 12:33 PM

It's been awhile but I seem to remember coming across some icons like that, greyed out/blank target field. Don't remember much else about them.

Yes, seems our installations are different, for whatever reason. I can't see classic menu vs normal menu as the only reason.

Posted by: Christian J Aug 18 2020, 02:21 PM

QUOTE(CharlesEF @ Aug 18 2020, 02:49 AM) *

My Edge is located at '"C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application\msedge.exe" --profile-directory=Default'. This is copied from my taskbar shortcut.

Same here.

Didn't know about the Shift+rightclick trick, so I had to: open the Start menu > find Microsoft Edge in the App list > Right-click and open the More submenu > click Open file location, which opened C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs > then I could finally right-click the real shortcut and choose Properies. laugh.gif

Posted by: Christian J Aug 18 2020, 02:24 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Aug 18 2020, 03:08 AM) *

This is very strange. I don't have any msedge.exe.

Are you still using the old EdgeHTML-based Edge browser? The new Chromium-based Edge has a different icon than in your screenshot.

Posted by: pandy Aug 18 2020, 02:31 PM

No idea! I thought Microsoft kept everything updated for me now. rolleyes.gif

QUOTE

Didn't know about the Shift+rightclick trick, so I had to: open the Start menu > find Microsoft Edge in the App list > Right-click and open the More submenu > click Open file location, which opened C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs > then I could finally right-click the real shortcut and choose Properies. laugh.gif


unsure.gif


Attached Image

Posted by: Christian J Aug 18 2020, 02:33 PM

I don't have that App Settings option is my More menu.

Posted by: pandy Aug 18 2020, 02:34 PM

I tried to find out what version i have (from within Edge). There is no About on the menu and can't find any other entry that tells me the version either. biggrin.gif


Posted by: Christian J Aug 18 2020, 02:59 PM

In the Chromium Edge version it's in a submenu to Help and Feedback.

You can also click the "..."-icon at the top right of the browser window and choose Settings, then the About menu will appear at the bottom left.

(You can tell "UX-specialists" have had a hand in all this.)

Posted by: pandy Aug 18 2020, 03:31 PM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Aug 18 2020, 09:59 PM) *

In the Chromium Edge version it's in a submenu to Help and Feedback.


Nope. laugh.gif

QUOTE
You can also click the "..."-icon at the top right of the browser window and choose Settings, then the About menu will appear at the bottom left.


No About menu, but the version is there, at the bottom of Settings. wacko.gif

Microsoft Edge 44.18362.449.0
Microsoft EdgeHTML 18.18363

Guess that's the old one. Maybe it's good someone has that?

QUOTE

(You can tell "UX-specialists" have had a hand in all this.)


I don't know what UX is and I'm not sure I want to know. User Experience?

Posted by: Christian J Aug 18 2020, 04:15 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Aug 18 2020, 10:31 PM) *

Guess that's the old one. Maybe it's good someone has that?

See how long it lasts, mine was simply overwritten by the Chromium version, but I still have IE11. unsure.gif

QUOTE
I don't know what UX is and I'm not sure I want to know. User Experience?

Yes: https://www.nngroup.com/articles/definition-user-experience/

"UX" may also be used as a buzz word by designers that don't really care about its meaning (just a hunch I got).

Posted by: pandy Aug 18 2020, 04:18 PM

Maybe UX is good together with jQuery.

Posted by: CharlesEF Aug 19 2020, 04:00 AM

For me, Microsoft Edge: Version 84.0.522.61 (Official build) (64-bit). Strange how the path I posted points to a x86 directory when the program states it is x64

Also, I do see 'App Settings', but only when I right click items in the menu. I see different options when I right click an icon in the quick launch bar (Windows calls it 'Pin to taskbar'). I also see different options when I hold down the SHIFT key and right click a quick launch icon (MS Edge has a 'Create shortcut' option).

Posted by: pandy Aug 19 2020, 04:23 AM

It seems Win10 is ever-changing. I notice this when searching the web for help. Almost every description of circumstances differs.

My original bugs with file associations and keyboard shortcuts also change with windows updates. For a while now my chosen association for .txt works, without me doing anything about it. The keyboard shortcut for opening IrfanView also works now. But it worked from start. Then it stopped to work. Came back. Stopped to work...

Since a while I can turn off UAC. But I can't set it to something moderate. From the beginning I could do nothing about it.

The only problem that doesn't change is that some programs don't want to run at startup. I've gotten used to have a bunch of icons in a corner of the desktop and click them first thing if the computer has been properly turned off. But I usually let it hibernate. I turn it off properly only when I get the task bar bug that lets program windows cover the task bar. tongue.gif

I think I've got every Win10 bug there is. I should get a prize! laugh.gif

Posted by: CharlesEF Aug 19 2020, 01:40 PM

Yes, I have that problem also. Not all startup programs load when starting Windows. For me it seems to happen more during 'Restart'. Doesn't happen as much when doing a cold boot.

Posted by: pandy Aug 19 2020, 02:48 PM

For me it doesn't matter how I boot.

Posted by: Christian J Aug 28 2020, 11:29 AM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Jul 31 2020, 09:30 PM) *

When trying to login the other day I got a splash screen saying:

QUOTE
Let's finish setting up your device

Your device needs to connect to a few more Microsoft services to help you work more easily and securely across all your devices.

...followed by ads for Onedrive, Microsoft 365 subscriptions, etc. In the bottom left corner was a small, ominous "Skip for now" link that closed it.

Now I got this again. IPB Image Is there are any way to disable it? I've already turned off all "suggestions" since long time. A web search mostly linked to this very forum thread, as if I'm the only one that is getting it (or cares). Maybe Microsoft detects that I'm refusing all of their cloud services, and is doubling the effort.

Posted by: pandy Aug 28 2020, 02:46 PM

Obviously they target you. biggrin.gif

Sorry, I don't know. I've learnt very little about Win10 so far and I'm not inspired to learn more. It's hard to google these things. I mean, what's even the thing you get called? unsure.gif

Posted by: Christian J Aug 28 2020, 03:34 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Aug 28 2020, 09:46 PM) *

I've learnt very little about Win10 so far and I'm not inspired to learn more.

Alas it seems constant vigilance is required: https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/microsoft/windows-10-alert-defragger-bug-defrags-ssd-drives-too-often/

QUOTE
It's hard to google these things. I mean, what's even the thing you get called? unsure.gif

Yeah, this was all I found: https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/lets-finish-setting-up-your-device/fbac87c8-c1f4-4634-ac81-3f5633bd6468?tab=AllReplies#tabs


Posted by: pandy Aug 28 2020, 03:45 PM

Did you find why you get it and not I?

So it's defragging? I don't think I've ever got that. Once it wanted to finish set something up, but I think that was the installation of yet another Windows update.

Posted by: Christian J Aug 28 2020, 04:27 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Aug 28 2020, 10:45 PM) *

Did you find why you get it and not I?

No. mellow.gif

QUOTE
So it's defragging? I don't think I've ever got that. Once it wanted to finish set something up, but I think that was the installation of yet another Windows update.

No, the SSD defragging is a completely different Windows 10 badness. It's done in the background, you may want to check those settings.

Posted by: Christian J Nov 25 2020, 01:53 PM

Just noticed that my customized hosts file has been reset to its default a few months ago (I also use ad-blocking in some of my browsers, hence I didn't notice it at first). When I opened a backup copy in my text editor, Windows Defender warned about a Severe level "SettingsModifier:Win32/HostsFileHijack" for the backup file. wacko.gif

I've now managed to reapply my hosts file customizations, but I wonder if it needs to be done at every Windows Feature update from now on?

Posted by: pandy Nov 25 2020, 02:47 PM

Ha ha! It feels so good when MS protects us from ourselves. laugh.gif

Oh win2k, why did you leave me? I'd even settle for win95. I think we need a new OS. I'm not fond of any of the existing ones. OK, I haven't tried every Linux flavour but I don't think they differ that much. And I haven't owned a Mac, but Mac seems even more bossy than Windows used to be. Nowadays maybe Windows is worst.

I may add that this new OS should run Windows programs without the need of virtual machines and other cumbersomeness.

Posted by: Christian J Nov 25 2020, 07:04 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Nov 25 2020, 08:47 PM) *

I think we need a new OS. I'm not fond of any of the existing ones. OK, I haven't tried every Linux flavour but I don't think they differ that much.

When I tested they felt like hobby projects, were it was assumed that you'd willingly install a new OS build twice a year or so. That said there are different Desktops, different variety of software in their repositories and different updates schedules. Documentation seemed equally abysmal, though.

QUOTE
And I haven't owned a Mac, but Mac seems even more bossy than Windows used to be.

Overpriced Veblen goods, IMHO. Better to buy a second PC.

QUOTE
I may add that this new OS should run Windows programs without the need of virtual machines and other cumbersomeness.

Too bad Windows is not open source, then I'm sure it would have been solved since long.

Posted by: pandy Nov 25 2020, 10:11 PM

That's my problem with Linux too. Not only the OS, the programs also seem to be in eternal Beta. And if you have a problem it isn't easily solved. The documentation expects you to be very into everything *nix already and know your way around like in your own home. Same with the community. Not exactly newbie friendly.

I guess that's what would happen to Windows too, was it released to open source.

I use a few open source programs, mostly photo related. They basically work fine, but have a few problems. I suspect some of the features that doesn't work for me work splendidly on Linux. I haven't dared to ask on the mailing list. The documentation is totally geared towards Linux, so no help there.

They also have too many features, that to me isn't related to their purpose. Like built in sharing on social media... That makes the menus cluttered and for a long time obscured features I do like and want, makes it hard to find your way around. I guess that's what happens when many people are involved. Everyone has their pet.

I use a few other programs BASED on open source, but now commercial. As expected the above problems go away. For example I at last found an email client I can stand to replace my old Eudora. Eudora was made open source when Qualcomm stopped developing it. The new program has its glitches, not many but annoying, it's still developed. But the author patently answers questions and lets us know when what isn't a user error will be fixed. I like that about not open source.

I payed the modest price, even if I can't type an @. Trash opens when I do. laugh.gif With some keyboard layouts there's a problem with the CTRL+ALT+number characters on the top row, since CTRL+number is used for keyboard shortcuts by the program. But I'm sure that problem will be fixed soon as promised. I needed an email client badly and don't want to export and import mail several times. With open source problems are sometimes never fixed.

Posted by: Christian J Nov 26 2020, 07:51 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Nov 26 2020, 04:11 AM) *

I use a few other programs BASED on open source, but now commercial. As expected the above problems go away.

Maybe Ubuntu would fit the bill, but I got scared away by that spyware thing they added long time ago: https://www.gnu.org/philosophy/ubuntu-spyware.en.html

QUOTE
I payed the modest price, even if I can't type an @. Trash opens when I do. laugh.gif

In an email program? laugh.gif

Posted by: pandy Nov 26 2020, 11:14 AM

Yes. I thought it was super buggy until I realized what caused and what actually happened. I thought my carefully crafted email just went up in smoke. laugh.gif
It's mainly Scandinavian keyboard layout and I think French that are problematic. It's not much of a problem now when I've used it a while. It isn't that often one actually type an email address - except when the program is new and no addresses are saved to the address book yet.

Maybe getting a second computer and run Linux on it would be a way to get into it a little more. I've done dual boot, but it's too cumbersome. I've kept my old PC, but I think it's too old now to be worth while to get in working condition. I don't even remember what part gave up. Probably the most expensive one.

Or maybe a dual boot laptop? So one can run familiar windows programs when away from home and at home it can function as a Linux box beside the desktop. unsure.gif

Posted by: Christian J Nov 26 2020, 12:12 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Nov 26 2020, 05:14 PM) *

I've done dual boot, but it's too cumbersome. I've kept my old PC, but I think it's too old now to be worth while to get in working condition. I don't even remember what part gave up. Probably the most expensive one.

Linux (and its relatives) seems much more lightweight than Windows, and if you get an SSD as well it should run pretty fast.

QUOTE
Or maybe a dual boot laptop? So one can run familiar windows programs when away from home and at home it can function as a Linux box beside the desktop. unsure.gif

It's a thought. Are there laptops with two disks? Otherwise one needs to deal with partitions as well.

Or maybe use Tails? unsure.gif https://tails.boum.org/index.en.html



Posted by: pandy Nov 26 2020, 02:57 PM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Nov 26 2020, 06:12 PM) *

It's a thought. Are there laptops with two disks? Otherwise one needs to deal with partitions as well.

Yup. But I think one place is usually for those small ones, I don't remember what they are called. I've also read that if the laptop has a DVD burner, you can put a hard drive in that space. But you need to remove the burner first. tongue.gif

QUOTE
Or maybe use Tails? unsure.gif https://tails.boum.org/index.en.html


Guess there are like 10 programs for that OS. laugh.gif


Posted by: pandy Nov 26 2020, 03:00 PM

Honestly, isn't Tail just for surfing without trails? Does it come with more programs than a browser? Have you tried it?

Posted by: pandy Nov 26 2020, 03:08 PM

If it wasn't for the fact that it has been in alpha since -96 or something, React is actually what we want. I had forgotten about it.

https://reactos.org/what-is-reactos/

Posted by: Christian J Nov 26 2020, 05:42 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Nov 26 2020, 09:00 PM) *

Honestly, isn't Tail just for surfing without trails? Does it come with more programs than a browser? Have you tried it?

Haven't tried myself yet, but it seems there are a few programs actually: https://tails.boum.org/doc/about/features/index.en.html and "Additionally, you can install in Tails any other software available in Debian."

React sounds interesting too, development seems to be ongoing. smile.gif


Posted by: pandy Nov 27 2020, 01:17 AM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Nov 26 2020, 11:42 PM) *

React sounds interesting too, development seems to be ongoing. smile.gif


Oh yes. But the problem is the same as with K-mel. They are sooo far behind. From what I've read they are up to mimicking my favourite version of Windows now, 2K. Which means not so few programs won't run on it. Maybe there's also security issues. I don't know how they handle that. And there is the eternal alpha status.

"Please note, that ReactOS is still in alpha and gives no guarantee of stability, safety of your files or working at all."

I watched a clip on YouTube. It looks so nice, as windows used to look. wub.gif

There is a Live CD. Maybe you could try that just for fun? I can't. My last computer didn't come with a DVD and I have hard drives in all places. I should get one of those USB ones, I guess. Or maybe it's possible to take the DVD from my old machine and use it "externally"? IIRC there are more connectors than there are slots in there. I'm not so good with hardware. I've always only had the one box, so I've been afraid to take chances and that's how one learns.

Posted by: pandy Nov 27 2020, 03:08 AM

Hm, most external DVDs seem to cost less than 400 SEK. Maybe I could afford that. tongue.gif I thought they were much more expensive and I wouldn't use it much, so... blush.gif

Posted by: Christian J Nov 27 2020, 12:40 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Nov 27 2020, 07:17 AM) *

From what I've read they are up to mimicking my favourite version of Windows now, 2K. Which means not so few programs won't run on it. Maybe there's also security issues.

Guess it depends on how you define mimicking Windows 2k, most Windows features are things we never use anyway. Support for newer programs (and hardware?) is another issue though. Not sure how important security would be, unless someone targetted you personally I'd say it gives more protection from general malware to use obscure software.

QUOTE
There is a Live CD. Maybe you could try that just for fun?

If it was fun I'd probably be using Linux already. tongue.gif

QUOTE
maybe it's possible to take the DVD from my old machine and use it "externally"?

I suppose that could work, with a cable to the motherboard. I got a dedicated external myself, but I've hardly ever used it.


Posted by: pandy Nov 28 2020, 05:27 AM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Nov 27 2020, 06:40 PM) *

QUOTE
There is a Live CD. Maybe you could try that just for fun?

If it was fun I'd probably be using Linux already. tongue.gif


But this isn't Linux. It's basically Windows, or close to.

QUOTE

QUOTE
maybe it's possible to take the DVD from my old machine and use it "externally"?

I suppose that could work, with a cable to the motherboard. I got a dedicated external myself, but I've hardly ever used it.


An USB one? Does it work OK when you use it though? Sometimes USB stuff lose connection.

Posted by: Christian J Nov 28 2020, 07:53 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Nov 28 2020, 11:27 AM) *

But this isn't Linux. It's basically Windows, or close to.

But it isn't fun. sad.gif


QUOTE
An USB one?

No I meant you could place the old internal DVD player outside your new PC, and connect it to the new PC's motherboard. I think it's a SATA connector, just like HDDs.

QUOTE
Does it work OK when you use it though? Sometimes USB stuff lose connection.

I've only used my USB DVD for installing a couple of old programs. My main problems with USB connections have been due to conflicts with other USB devices, but once there's a connection I recall it use to work.


Posted by: pandy Nov 28 2020, 08:02 AM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Nov 28 2020, 01:53 PM) *

QUOTE(pandy @ Nov 28 2020, 11:27 AM) *

But this isn't Linux. It's basically Windows, or close to.

But it isn't fun. sad.gif


No? I think Windows without the crap sound super fun! If only it was up to date, I would be all over it. wub.gif


QUOTE
QUOTE
An USB one?

No I meant you could place the old internal DVD player outside your new PC, and connect it to the new PC's motherboard. I think it's a SATA connector, just like HDDs.


Me too. I referred to the external thing you have.
QUOTE

QUOTE
Does it work OK when you use it though? Sometimes USB stuff lose connection.

I've only used my USB DVD for installing a couple of old programs. My main problems with USB connections have been due to conflicts with other USB devices, but once there's a connection I recall it use to work.


I get it quite often, but usually in the beginning of the process. For example I use a downloader thing to transfer photos from the memory card (it does smart things, sorts and renames and so on). It often lose connection right at start and I have to click one or two times more. But nothing is lost or corrupted since the files are left on the card until I decide to delete them, so it doesn't matter. If I was burning something I probably wouldn't be as lucky.

Posted by: pandy Feb 15 2021, 04:26 AM

Help! All of a sudden I have what looks like a chromeless black window in the top right corner of my screen. It's on top of everything, even the mouse pointer goes behind it, so right-clicking on it doesn't work. There is no button for it on the task bar.

When it occurred there was also a notification that Java had been updated. The only thing Java related I found in task manager was the notification service, which I killed.

Rebooting doesn't help.


Oh dear. When I took a screen cap to post here it turned out the black thing doesn't show. Does that mean it's something wrong with the monitor? What could it be? I've restarted the monitor and rebooted the computer. No changes.

I photographed the screen with my phone. The sun is causing reflexes, but I think you can see the evil rectangle. sad.gif

Attached Image

Posted by: pandy Feb 15 2021, 04:31 AM

Oops! Fixed it. The screen had turned on Multi View, something I've never used. Strange though, since I hadn't touched the screen when it happened.

I was going to delete my first post about it, but decided to let it be in case someone else has a similar problem.

Posted by: Christian J Feb 15 2021, 10:31 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Feb 15 2021, 10:31 AM) *

The screen had turned on Multi View, something I've never used.

What is that? I suppose you don't mean this: https://www.futuresoft.com/Products/MultiView/multiview8.html unsure.gif

Posted by: pandy Feb 15 2021, 11:19 AM

You can't expect me to know things like that! Do you think I read the manual? 😠

I *think* it is the feature that lets you mirror other devices on the screen. I did try that with my phone when the screen was new, but my phone didn't support it. Of course.

Posted by: Christian J Feb 15 2021, 01:14 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Feb 15 2021, 05:19 PM) *

You can't expect me to know things like that! Do you think I read the manual? 😠

Someone's gotta do it. tongue.gif

QUOTE
I *think* it is the feature that lets you mirror other devices on the screen. I did try that with my phone when the screen was new, but my phone didn't support it. Of course.

Never heard of it before.


Posted by: pandy Feb 15 2021, 02:14 PM

Of curse you haven't. cool.gif

Posted by: Christian J Feb 15 2021, 06:28 PM

But what is its real name in Windows?

Posted by: pandy Feb 16 2021, 02:44 AM

Windows isn't involved. It's between the screen and the other device. You connect the phone or whatever it is directly to the screen. It's a feature of the screen (an to an extent of the other device). I think it can also be done with a TV or for example a gaming console.

It was the only extra feature I wanted to try when the screen was new. I sometimes use a service that lets me send SMS from the PC. It synchs with the phone. But sometime it doesn't. So I need to check on the phone that the text got through (and if it hasn't I can't be sure if the other party has received it anyway...). Yeah, I sometimes have rather involved SMS conversations and I suck at texting so to be able to use the keyboard is good. And sometimes I want to spy on the GPS game I'm playing. So it would be handy to have the phone in a little window on the screen at times.

Posted by: Christian J Feb 16 2021, 07:47 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Feb 16 2021, 08:44 AM) *

Windows isn't involved. It's between the screen and the other device. You connect the phone or whatever it is directly to the screen. It's a feature of the screen (an to an extent of the other device). I think it can also be done with a TV or for example a gaming console.

Oh, never heard of that either. The visual effect seems to be called Picture in Picture, but does the technology have a generic name or is it different for every manufacturer?

Posted by: pandy Feb 16 2021, 08:27 AM

No idea. Wasn't something I looked for. This screen just happened to have a lot of extras. Got tired reading about them. I don't even do things like synch stuff between computer and phone.

Since this is an OT thread anyhow, have you read the South-African mutation of covid has reached France? The vaccine probably don't protect against it. Antibodies don't. I'm seriously contemplating to take my hammock and my Trangia and move out in the woods. unsure.gif

Posted by: Christian J Feb 16 2021, 01:28 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Feb 16 2021, 02:27 PM) *

Since this is an OT thread anyhow, have you read the South-African mutation of covid has reached France? The vaccine probably don't protect against it. Antibodies don't. I'm seriously contemplating to take my hammock and my Trangia and move out in the woods. unsure.gif

No, but I always assume news media exaggerate until proven otherwise. wacko.gif

Otherwise there's a thread here: https://forums.htmlhelp.com/index.php?showtopic=60152

Posted by: pandy Feb 16 2021, 02:22 PM

Don't tell me you are a covid denier! biggrin.gif

Not much that can be exaggerated. One (1) Frenchman in intensive care with the mutation. He had had covid previously.

It's only one person, but since there are no signs of him having visited SA it means it's already here. And why wouldn't it be? It isn't stoppable. It was only a matter of when it would reach us. Maybe it's good things move so slowly in Sweden. Now everyone can maybe get the modified vaccine. And then the next mutation comes. I fear we'll be doing this for a long time.

Posted by: pandy Feb 16 2021, 03:47 PM

And I'm delirious. I meant the South American mutation. The South African one is already found in Sweden.

Posted by: Christian J Feb 16 2021, 06:53 PM

Where can we read about this?

Posted by: pandy Feb 17 2021, 03:37 AM

The South American mutation I read about in SvD yesterday, but can't find the article again now. That the South African is already here I've read/heard at several places. The one I remember is the latest Corona special on SVT, yesterday.

If it works as it uses to, and why wouldn't it, the most viable mutations will take over and the other versions fade out and this happens fast. So the vaccine will be useless if not modified quickly.

At least here the number of sick people will go up by next week already. They have detected a large increase of the virus in the waste water. Don't know if they check that in all cities or if it's just us.

Posted by: Christian J Feb 17 2021, 08:46 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Feb 17 2021, 09:37 AM) *

The South American mutation I read about in SvD yesterday, but can't find the article again now.

This one about Manaus: https://www.svd.se/ny-virusvag-i-amazonas-forbryllar-forskare ? I'd never trust anything a journalist writes, here's a more detailed source: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(21)00183-5/fulltext

QUOTE
At least here the number of sick people will go up by next week already. They have detected a large increase of the virus in the waste water. Don't know if they check that in all cities or if it's just us.

I only follow https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/09f821667ce64bf7be6f9f87457ed9aa --it might have stabilized on a medium-high level for February, but it's too early to tell if the declining trend since Christmas is broken.

Posted by: pandy Feb 17 2021, 01:40 PM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Feb 17 2021, 02:46 PM) *

This one about Manaus: https://www.svd.se/ny-virusvag-i-amazonas-forbryllar-forskare ? I'd never trust anything a journalist writes, here's a more detailed source: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(21)00183-5/fulltext


No, it was about a man in FRANCE with the mutation.

QUOTE

QUOTE
At least here the number of sick people will go up by next week already. They have detected a large increase of the virus in the waste water. Don't know if they check that in all cities or if it's just us.

I only follow https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/09f821667ce64bf7be6f9f87457ed9aa --it might have stabilized on a medium-high level for February, but it's too early to tell if the declining trend since Christmas is broken.

Not likely. They are talking about the increase in your county right now on the news.

Posted by: pandy Feb 17 2021, 04:57 PM

An now we have a cluster outbreak of the South African mutation in Västmanland. 20 ppl, probably more. No one has been abroad. Bye-bye vaccine. In a short time this will be the dominant variant. sad.gif

Posted by: pandy Feb 20 2021, 09:13 AM

New Windows mystery.

I emailed a photo to myself to get it off my phone. From the email I saved it to a folder. When I wanted to attach it to another email it wasn't there. Thought I had saved it to the wrong folder, so I saved it again. And am told such a file already exists. Open it in IrfanView and try to save it. Same thing, already exists. I overwrite the invisible copy.

I can't see it when I open the folder. Some programs can't see it when I want to open it with them, some can (IrfanView). All programs I tried see it when I try to save a file with the same name in that folder but it still isn't visible to me in the folder view in the Save As dialogue.

The other files in the folder are fine and the image behaved normally when I saved it to another folder using the same name.

Nothing odd with the file name, my phones standard naming, IMG_20210220_144558024_1.jpg .

Not that it matters, it will probably never happen again. But anyway, what can cause this?

Posted by: Christian J Feb 20 2021, 09:50 AM

I think that's happened to me too a few times when I've saved images to the desktop. Can't remember if it's happened with other file types, or if they were saved from emails or the browser. When at first I couldn't see the file I just assumed it was hidden among all the other icons, but eventually I became convinced it was actually invisible. When I viewed the desktop from Windows file system the file was there.

Posted by: pandy Feb 20 2021, 10:09 AM

But I couldn't see mine with Explorer (or what it's called now).

Everything (the file indexer) could see it, so I deleted it from there. The folder I happened to use was a folder on my desktop that I use for test files from here. So if something was odd with that folder I would have noticed long ago. Still, it only happened when I saved to this folder. wacko.gif

Posted by: Christian J Feb 25 2021, 07:58 AM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Jul 31 2020, 08:30 PM) *

When trying to login the other day I got a splash screen saying:

QUOTE
Let's finish setting up your device

Your device needs to connect to a few more Microsoft services to help you work more easily and securely across all your devices.

...followed by ads for Onedrive, Microsoft 365 subscriptions, etc. In the bottom left corner was a small, ominous "Skip for now" link that closed it. This showed up after a Windows Defender update, maybe they sneaked it in there or maybe it came with the 1909 update but was set on a timer. Is the aggressive marketing from the "Get Windows 10" campaign making a comeback?

I also seem to have a lost a couple of file associations, but most seem to work.

Got this again.

Posted by: pandy Feb 25 2021, 09:55 AM

Got something like that the other week. I managed to get passed it somehow, don't remember.

On a software related mailing list I'm on there is a browser war going on. One guy, that used to be sensible, thinks Edge is the best, most feature rich browser ever. He also thinks Windows 10 is the ultimate Windows. wacko.gif

I just wait for the day when MS fully teams up with Google and maybe some others like FB. When you install Windows you'll get automatically subscribed to all of them and they can share all your data amongst them.

Posted by: Christian J Mar 14 2021, 02:11 PM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Nov 25 2020, 07:53 PM) *

Just noticed that my customized hosts file has been reset to its default a few months ago (I also use ad-blocking in some of my browsers, hence I didn't notice it at first). When I opened a backup copy in my text editor, Windows Defender warned about a Severe level "SettingsModifier:Win32/HostsFileHijack" for the backup file. wacko.gif

I've now managed to reapply my hosts file customizations, but I wonder if it needs to be done at every Windows Feature update from now on?

After installing Feature Update 20H2 I got a "Severe" warning about the hosts file again:
"If this change was intended by you or your organization, then please know that the hosts file is not a supported method of managing network connections to Windows devices."
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/wdsi/threats/malware-encyclopedia-description?name=SettingsModifier%3aWin32%2fHostsFileHijack&threatid=265754

At least it wasn't overwritten this time.

Posted by: pandy Mar 14 2021, 03:41 PM

What does that even mean? wacko.gif

Posted by: Christian J Mar 27 2021, 09:38 AM

Got the "Let's finish setting up your device" message again. Seems you can disable it easily: https://www.tenforums.com/tutorials/137645-turn-off-get-even-more-out-windows-suggestions-windows-10-a.html

Posted by: pandy Mar 27 2021, 09:53 AM

Great. Except I don't have that option ("Suggest ways..."). I have all the others in the screen shot.

I also got that screen. I don't remember what I did. I haven't noticed anything different though.

Posted by: Christian J Mar 27 2021, 12:45 PM

Do you have an older Windows 10 version? According to the article, "This will only work with Windows 10 build 18945 and higher".

There's a "Not now" option in the nag screen to get rid of it every time (so far).

Posted by: pandy Mar 27 2021, 12:53 PM

Where do you find the build? I find "version 1909" which seems very old compared to 18945. 😁

I find it hard to take an interest in this OS at all. Every new OS before this I've loved to check what's new and learn my way around it. This just makes me tired an uninterested. Maybe that's the purpose. We should just sit back and let Big Brother do what Big Brother wants. 🤢

Posted by: pandy Mar 27 2021, 12:56 PM

Oh, winver of course. Version 1909, build 18363.1198 . cool.gif

Why doesn't it update? Thought updates/upgrades to Windows were what they send down the pipe all the time, among other things.

Posted by: Christian J Mar 27 2021, 02:29 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Mar 27 2021, 06:53 PM) *

I find it hard to take an interest in this OS at all. Every new OS before this I've loved to check what's new and learn my way around it. This just makes me tired an uninterested. Maybe that's the purpose. We should just sit back and let Big Brother do what Big Brother wants. 🤢

Same here, I just want to disable everything that's new in it. Same as with browsers. wacko.gif Maybe they assume all power users have fled to Linux already.

QUOTE
Why doesn't it update? Thought updates/upgrades to Windows were what they send down the pipe all the time, among other things.

Feature updates need to be started manually, which is fortunate since it took an hour last time. Lately I got increasingly frequent warnings that the end of 1909 was near, haven't you got that yet?

Posted by: pandy Mar 27 2021, 03:53 PM

Nope. cool.gif

Posted by: Christian J Jul 14 2021, 01:32 PM

Win10 didn't let me me download patch KB5004237, instead I was presented with the following slightly paternalistic message:

"Updates are available, but they are too big to download over your current connection. We'll download the updates as soon as you connect to Wi-Fi."

After I unchecked "Set as metered connection" in my Network properties Win10 agreed to download the patch.

Posted by: Christian J Sep 30 2021, 12:55 PM

In Edge, I tried pasting the URL to an HTML file on my desktop in the address bar, but then Edge insists on submitting the URL as a web search instead of opening the HTML file. If I instead type in the URL it seems to work. wacko.gif

Have we discussed this already? unsure.gif

Posted by: pandy Sep 30 2021, 05:06 PM

No. And it doesn't happen to me. cool.gif

Did you mean URL, not path? If path, did you copy it with the context menu command and forgot to remove the quotes?

Posted by: Christian J Sep 30 2021, 06:32 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 1 2021, 12:06 AM) *

No. And it doesn't happen to me. cool.gif

Tsk. dry.gif

QUOTE
Did you mean URL, not path? If path, did you copy it with the context menu command and forgot to remove the quotes?

Sorry, I meant path. I copied it from another browser:

CODE
file:///C:/Users/foo/Desktop/bar.html

("file:///" is the same format Edge uses, BTW).

Do you get quotes from the context menu? Never seen that. unsure.gif




Posted by: pandy Sep 30 2021, 09:10 PM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Oct 1 2021, 01:32 AM) *

Sorry, I meant path. I copied it from another browser:

CODE
file:///C:/Users/foo/Desktop/bar.html

("file:///" is the same format Edge uses, BTW).


That is a URL. tongue.gif

QUOTE

Do you get quotes from the context menu? Never seen that. unsure.gif


Yeah. I mean if you Shift + right click on a disk file and choose "Copy as path".

Anyway, Edge is fine with everything here as long as it isn't quoted, even Windows paths.

Posted by: Christian J Oct 1 2021, 10:22 AM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 1 2021, 04:10 AM) *

That is a URL. tongue.gif

Sigh. Isn't it a path too? I can't find any conclusive answers on the web.

QUOTE

Do you get quotes from the context menu? Never seen that. unsure.gif


Yeah. I mean if you Shift + right click on a disk file and choose "Copy as path".

Never done that. cool.gif

QUOTE
Anyway, Edge is fine with everything here as long as it isn't quoted, even Windows paths.

But do you have the Chromium Edge now? I recall you used the older version.


Posted by: pandy Oct 1 2021, 10:49 AM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Oct 1 2021, 05:22 PM) *

Sigh. Isn't it a path too? I can't find any conclusive answers on the web.


I think it's a URL. If it has a protocol and uses forward slashes I say it's a URL. cool.gif

QUOTE
QUOTE

Yeah. I mean if you Shift + right click on a disk file and choose "Copy as path".

Never done that. cool.gif


I do all the time. Also when uploading files. Much quicker than to browse, maybe because I usually locate things by clicking on folders. I think Win10 is the first windows version that has it natively. Used to need to install a third party "extension".

QUOTE
QUOTE
Anyway, Edge is fine with everything here as long as it isn't quoted, even Windows paths.

But do you have the Chromium Edge now? I recall you used the older version.


I don't know. What else is there? I thought Edge was a branded Chrome?

Oh right. When I clicked About, the darn thing started to update itself without giving me an option! How's that for sneaky? mad.gif

I had time to copy this:


CODE
Microsoft Edge
Version 86.0.622.68 (Official build) (64-bit)
This browser is made possible by the Chromium open source project and other open source software.
© 2021 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.

Posted by: pandy Oct 1 2021, 10:52 AM

Now I have Version 94.0.992.37 . Still works with both the file protocol and a Windows path. I guess it depends on the skill level of the user. cool.gif laugh.gif

Posted by: Christian J Oct 1 2021, 12:59 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 1 2021, 05:49 PM) *

I thought Edge was a branded Chrome?

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EdgeHTML

QUOTE
Still works with both the file protocol and a Windows path. I guess it depends on the skill level of the user.

But do you paste the URL into the address bar? When I type part of the URL it works for me too.

Posted by: pandy Oct 1 2021, 01:39 PM

I pasted. Are you saying it only happens when you paste, not when you type? Maybe something's wrong with your pastry. tongue.gif

Posted by: pandy Oct 1 2021, 01:45 PM

QUOTE(Christian J @ Oct 1 2021, 07:59 PM) *

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EdgeHTML


What a mess. wacko.gif

Judging from the timeline there they are still developing EdgeHTML. What do they use it for now when they've ripped it out of the browser?

I knew Edge wasn't always Chromium based, but I guess I thought they had just revamped IE. Never took an interest really. I had no idea they put this much work into it, so thanks for enlightening me.

Posted by: Christian J Oct 1 2021, 03:15 PM

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 1 2021, 08:39 PM) *

I pasted. Are you saying it only happens when you paste, not when you type? Maybe something's wrong with your pastry. tongue.gif

Could be, I copied it from Firefox. mellow.gif

QUOTE(pandy @ Oct 1 2021, 08:45 PM) *

QUOTE(Christian J @ Oct 1 2021, 07:59 PM) *

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EdgeHTML


What a mess. wacko.gif

Judging from the timeline there they are still developing EdgeHTML. What do they use it for now when they've ripped it out of the browser?

Maybe they've just thrown it away, who knows? Seems typically Microsoft to constantly change direction like that.

Posted by: pandy Oct 1 2021, 05:07 PM

I meant that they don't seem to have done that, if I understand the timeline right.

Posted by: Christian J Oct 1 2021, 06:11 PM

You mean where it says they changed Edge to Chromium between 2018 and 2021, but continued development of EdgeHTML until 2020? Maybe the versions from 2018 were just security patches.

Or maybe Chromium is just a temporary solution while they continue developing EdgeHTML, and will put it back in Edge once they've caught up with Chromium.

Posted by: pandy Oct 2 2021, 03:26 PM

Guess they could be. Did you ever use the EdgeHTML version? When I got Win10 Edge was already chromium based.

Posted by: Christian J Oct 2 2021, 03:38 PM

Maybe for testing some web page. Never for personal browsing. laugh.gif

Posted by: pandy Oct 2 2021, 03:57 PM

The updated version has glitches the old version didn't have. Annoying. I use it for a specific purpose where I expect to get lots of cookies. I don't use it for browsing otherwiser either, so that way I keep the cookies contained. The favourites bar is all messed up and flickers and I actually use that.

Posted by: pandy Feb 11 2022, 09:33 PM

How to make the bluetooth icon always visible?

Background: I've started to also use my bluetooth handsfree that I normally use with my phone with my desktop. I got one of those USB thingies to get it to support bluetooth. I use it when I watch a movie or something late, to not disturb my neighbours. I don't want to use a corded headset - I want to be free! wink.gif But my headsets get confused when both the phone and the computer wants to connect and I have to go into settings on one or the other. It's easier to have bluetooth off on the computer during daytime.

I can set the bluetooth CP to show in the tray, but it does only when bluetooth is on. If I turn it off it goes away. To turn it on again I have to go through the whole process, search for bluetooth and so on. That's why I would want the icon to always be visible, so I can quickly turn bluetooth off and on without hassle.

I found some suggestions here. The first is crap, the second looked promising, but I don't have it like that and can't find the option the poster mentions.
https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/i-want-the-bluetooth-icon-in-my-system-tray-all/e74e69a2-10be-4428-98d7-6ba8fd1ed4e6

Any shortcut to the bluetooth CP would do. If it's a standalone file a bat file to run it would suffice, but I don't know if it is and where to find it. Something to type in the RUN box would also work.

Posted by: pandy Feb 11 2022, 10:49 PM

Of course I found it in as soon as I had asked about it here. Must be magic, that.

https://www.majorgeeks.com/content/page/bluetooth_shortcut.html

As can be read in the comments, what majorgeeks suggest, fsquirt.exe, brings up settings for file transfer via bluetooth. But a commenter has the solution, bthprops.cpl. It's in C:\Windows\System32 .

Posted by: pandy Feb 11 2022, 11:18 PM

The icon was pretty boring. The standard bluetooth icon is in fsquirt.exe. So one can rightlick the boring icon, choose Change Icon and type in %SystemRoot%\System32\fsquirt.exe and hit ENTER and there it is.

In case someone else is in need. tongue.gif

Posted by: Christian J Feb 12 2022, 09:43 AM

I think I'll stick with my corded headset. wacko.gif tongue.gif

Posted by: pandy Feb 12 2022, 10:15 AM

Do you remember that you are corded? I don't and walk away... Plus I like to hear things around me too, so mono is preferable.

Sidenote. I'm super tired of people who walks or cycles with stereo headsets. They are a danger to themselves and others and menace to society! Sometimes they are also texting - even if on a bike. So they are basically both deaf and blind. mad.gif

Posted by: Christian J Feb 12 2022, 12:07 PM

Yes, I only use the headphones while in my computer chair. It gets worse when I'm playing guitar with headphones, then cables are going everywhere. blink.gif When playing computer games with headphones I wouldn't notice if the house was on fire. blush.gif

I always take wide berths around cyclists.

Posted by: pandy Feb 12 2022, 10:04 PM

Maybe you use big ones? I've always used small, light ones. So I don't feel them and I just stand up and walk away. cool.gif

I cycle almost daily. It amazes me how people can walk right out in the street without looking. Just make a sharp turn and step right out there, most often looking down at their phone, ears plugged. Sometimes they even push a baby carriage, so the baby is the one who would get smashed. I've had to slam on the brakes more than once. Had I been in a car I wouldn't have been able to stop in time.

It's strange, cyclists are so afraid of cars. But I've almost never had an incident with a car. With pedestrians and other cyclists it happens all the time. I rather ride on the road than on those horrid combined cycle and pedestrian lanes for that reason.

Posted by: Christian J Feb 13 2022, 09:29 AM

A while ago a lady was standing one one side of the road and her dog on the other, with the long dog leash cordoning off the whole road between them. Just moments before a kid had come charging at full speed on one of those little self-balancing scooters they play with now. It's a miracle they don't end up killing themselves on a daily basis. wacko.gif

Posted by: pandy Feb 13 2022, 10:03 AM

"Flexikoppel"! Hate them. I've had dogs and I hope to have one again, but never would I use a thing like that. My dogs have either been unleashed or leashed, not in-between. If I in some situation would want a long leash I'd use a rope, but not where there's traffic. On top of that people use them in a stupid way, like that lady, they are uncomfortable to hold, the big plastic lump. I looked after a little dog a while and she came with one of those. Sucked. Of course I locked it at a sensible length, but I still had to carry the lump. Doesn't fit in a normal pocket so you still have to carry it even if you let the dog loose. Her owner didn't have a normal leash and I didn't want to buy one or cut a rope, so I persevered.

Posted by: Christian J Feb 13 2022, 02:34 PM

Is that what they're called? I suppose they're for dog owners that can't train their dogs properly to walk next to them, and at the same time don't want to follow the dog's every whim. In this case the lady and dog stayed put on opposite sides, so nothing prevented the dog owner from crossing the road.

Posted by: pandy Feb 14 2022, 12:40 AM

Yeah, or they don't dare to unleash the dog, or it's forbidden to do so, and they still want to give it some freedom. I've always used rather long leashes (not THAT long!). It's easy to shorten if needed, but the flexi stuff has a thin synthetic rope that's very uncomfortable to hold compared to a leather leash, especially if the dog weighs more than a couple of kg and you need to shorten it quickly. The mechanism in the handle isn't strong enough to just reel the dog in, the rope needs to be slackened first, so you still have to do it by hand. The dog I looked after was a very small breed and she was old and weak but went bananas when she was in heat and could rush away in any direction. That rope still hurt my hands.

Posted by: pandy Mar 22 2022, 08:51 AM

So another Windows update was forced on me. After that FF doesn't work properly. It refuses to play videos on some sites (SVTPlay is OK, TV4Play is not). At some shopping sites, for example elgiganten.se , product images and some other images aren't shown. The sites work as usual in Edge.

What the heck could cause this?

Posted by: Christian J Mar 22 2022, 03:31 PM

Don't have a TV4 account! IPB Image

Elgiganten works in my FF. Check your Inspector's network log, are there any errors? Do other Gecko-based browsers work?


Posted by: pandy Mar 22 2022, 04:30 PM

Of course it does. Everything worked before the darn windows update. I was watching something before the update and decided to reboot at once to be done with it and wanted to continue to watch directly after and couldn't. Elgiganten I discovred later, but that has also worked before.

Hopefully the next FF update will fix it. Alas I had just updated, but it feels like it's only a few days between updates so the wait shouldn't be too long.

Where to I find the error log? I only know about the crash report.

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