Right now, I'm on Ryan's computer. I'm not going to see you guys unless I can use someone else's computer... My own whining computer kicked the bucket... Hard. So I have no computer, no Internet, and no more access to Bachmann of my own.
I'll check in when I get the chance, and the School year will help, since I stop by the local library after school. Thank God they have Internet computers.
:(
Joshua
Hey Josh, that is sad news. I'm gonna miss you buddy. You could always move in with Ryan. :D
Just a suggestion, if you are looking for another computer, check out this site.
http://www.laptopoutlet.com/
I bought a brand new Dell Pentium III with Windows 98 installed for less than $300. Great service and warranty, first one I got had a tiny black spot on the screen, they sent me another new one.
I have seen refurbished ones with 30 day warranty, less than $200.
Anyway, don't be a stranger, keep your membership intact, and post as often as you can. No farewells, just see ya around...OK?
Hi Josh, I echo Yampa Bob's statement: no goodbyes; only a little more time between posts. We don't want to lose a good forum member like yourself so stay in touch...please?
PS: I am writing this from a campground in Kansas...we have yet to see either Dorothy or Toto (maybe they are spending the summer in Oz?). One good thing is that the campground is near an active rail line so I get to listen to horns and rumbling wheels before my wife strangles me.
Take care,
Ray
This is a real bummer. A young gentleman like Josh needs a computer for homework, the forum and just for fun stuff.
Here's a challenge...I'm sure someone out there in forum land, maybe even around Bourbonnais, has an extra or old laptop they would be willing to donate to Josh. Hey, we're supposed to "spread the wealth", right?
Anyone needing a computer check out this page. I'll never pay retail for a factory direct computer again.
http://www.laptopoutlet.com/delllaptops.html
I said the heck with high prices too, so I built my own. I use Ubuntu for the operating system because I refuse to pay for Windoz. Ubuntu is free and always will be. It's been on my computer as the only operating system for 3+ years and I couldn't be happier. It does everything I need and my old Windoz programs run on it using wine. Its very easy to use and it has been getting great reviews for years. They upgrade every 6 months and do patches when needed. I don't worry about viruses either, they only seen to written for windows not Linux based systems. Save some more money, don't pay for the OS.
Bloody bugger! :'( I would say you could use mine but i don't think you could. :( This will be a bit quiet with you gone. I loved your post and some jokes. :) Well, understandable, at least it is not for good. :) Well come back soon!!! :)
Everyone has their favorite OS, but please let's not get into a debate about that. The topic is Josh, and he should have the system he is comfortable with. 8)
Joshua, a busted computer is a real bummer. I am hoping that if you ask around, you may find someone who has a computer or at least a hard drive they are not using, and hopefully someone to help you install it. I don't know if they have Freecycle in your area but that might be another source you could look into. If you look for a hard drive, look for one close in size to the one that quit. Most computers have limits to how large a hard drive they can handle. Above that size, installation becomes complicated. Below that limit, it is often as easy as unplugging one and plugging in another. If you are lucky, you may be able to get most or all of your data back off your bad hard drive. This can happen when the failure to boot is a bad track containing part of the operating system.
Anyhow, best of luck to you. I too have high hopes of seeing you back on Bach-Man's Board. You have earned your bones in model railroading and your postings help keep some of us old guys in touch with the 21st Century. We will be watching for your posts as you get the chance to write them.
Jim
My thought about the alternative OS was a cost saving measure to help Josh with his computer woos. Nothing else.If it saves him a $100 or more to get back on line and be a good member of this board, then so be it. Anything to help. I'll even send him the software.
Here in the NYC area there are websites that can only be accessed through Windws. For example the NY State Department of Labor can only be accessed through Windows and here on Long Island school districts advertise positions electronically. If you don't have Windows you can't access the site to apply for a job.
As for Josh I understand his problem. In NYC one of the biggest challenges is to get computers into the hands of students. Unfortunately, some NYC schools are so crowded that they are removing computers to make more classroom space. The other problem is keeping computer rooms up to date. It is a daunting task when you here that there are 1400 schools!
Wow, thanks... I didn't expect this. You guys need to calm down before you wake the dogs... :o
Here's the problem, I posted it on another forum, and it's fairly a nightmare.
http://forums.auran.com/trainz/showthread.php?p=461127#post461127
Better yet:
Quote from: Uhhh, the person called 'SantaFebuff'... whoever that is... :PHere's the story:
-Something that was downloaded (I blame me and my Trainz addiction. ) had a corrupt dataflow that bombed the computer.
-On top of that (and this is what we are only partly done on...) our computer is overpowered. Somehow, our computer is getting too much power, thus explaining the over-reving fan sound that appeared awhile ago and has kept us worried every since.
-Then, the dust build-up was incredible, we fixed that first, but all together, they took down the computer.
Everything is going work out... but I lost everything, those looking at the link will find out that we had to reset the system causing everyones files and user information to be erased back to default, or how it was when we first got the computer.
I'm going to be fine, but I had no idea you guys were starting a little charity!? I think it's okay now, but I wasn't sure the extent of the damage until we got some 'smarter' family members in here. ;)
Joshua
Yay! That's great....in ways :( :). To be honest with you I go to my grandpa's to play train simulator.It is fantastic!!! He gots 10+ files because he got's so many routes! :o It means more veriety and countrys! ;D You should try the game! :) ;) :D ;D
Glad to have you back! ;)
Some time ago I happened upon a gaming website and it mentioned MS Train Simulator. Apparently MS is bringing out another [newer] version of MS Train Simulator. I haven't seen anything in the press about this though. An acquaintance (who is connected with MS) says he hasn't heard anything about a newer version of Train Simulator. Keep your fingers crossed anyway.
Ray
I wouldn't hold my breath. MS has dumped Flight Simulator after some 25 years and nine iterations.
Rusty
Quote from: CNE Runner on June 21, 2009, 06:24:25 PM
Some time ago I happened upon a gaming website and it mentioned MS Train Simulator. Apparently MS is bringing out another [newer] version of MS Train Simulator. I haven't seen anything in the press about this though. An acquaintance (who is connected with MS) says he hasn't heard anything about a newer version of Train Simulator. Keep your fingers crossed anyway.
Ray
As long as they keep making upgrades and models for the trains and scenery to today's msts then,"I'm a happy guy!" ;D ;D ;D
Woody, I was able to access the site. No site is a problem.I have yet to find a site that won't let me in. And I don't have to worry about viruses as they aren't written for linux only windows.
I have two - 4 way USB hubs, which will accomodate 8 - 1 or 2 Gig flash drives. Every few days, all my data gets transferred /updated from the HD to the flash drives.
One drive is devoted to railroad information such as PDF files and photos. If I'm away from home for even a day, like on a trip to Denver, the drives go with me in a small storage case.
Josh, when you get back up, suggest buying a hub and couple of flash drives. Yeah, I know about the monster portable HD, but don't like it all in one basket.
Walmart has PNY 2 gig flash drives for only $10.
they are well worth the aggravation of loosing all your personal files
I'm here again, and I have a user account. So I'm going to be here! Unfortunately, the computer still is over-reving the fans, and the power situation is resolved. So, I'm not sure if the computer wants to stay in-tack. If this occurs again, just be patient. Unless it's the end for the computer, but I'll tell you guys about it on another computer if it does happen. As for a flashdrive, I already own a 2GB drive from Kingston. I'm considering purchasing an 8GB or even a 16GB drive to back up files and organize files before burning on Discs for perminate backup. So, Discs are another thing I'm planning to purchase if this occurs. I'm questioning another computer. I've recieved an offer, and it's to be heavyly discussed among my parents. I'll check in when I should, but again, this computer was likely a 'bad egg'... Or a waste of $500, depends on how long it will last until re-crashing. As for Trainz Railroad Simulator, I'll give that idea a rest for now. I'd rather have a machine than silly simulators that can threaten the computer. ;)
Joshua
Quote from: Santa Fe buff on June 24, 2009, 10:13:45 PM
I'm here again, and I have a user account. So I'm going to be here! Unfortunately, the computer still is over-reving the fans, and the power situation is resolved. So, I'm not sure if the computer wants to stay in-tack. If this occurs again, just be patient. Unless it's the end for the computer, but I'll tell you guys about it on another computer if it does happen. As for a flashdrive, I already own a 2GB drive from Kingston. I'm considering purchasing an 8GB or even a 16GB drive to back up files and organize files before burning on Discs for perminate backup. So, Discs are another thing I'm planning to purchase if this occurs. I'm questioning another computer. I've recieved an offer, and it's to be heavyly discussed among my parents. I'll check in when I should, but again, this computer was likely a 'bad egg'... Or a waste of $500, depends on how long it will last until re-crashing. As for Trainz Railroad Simulator, I'll give that idea a rest for now. I'd rather have a machine than silly simulators that can threaten the computer. ;)
Joshua
Joshua, as long as you stay, i will wait. I agree on computer versions are not as good as models. They don't destroy software. :P Maybe hardware if you treat or engines bad! :D Hardware soft ware, whats the difference?
A LOT!!!! :o :o :o
At least we still have some software installed that didn't get beat up by the hardware! :D
Joshua
Josh,
I'm not sure - are you back up and running again? One thing to consider is that most public libraries now have computers for patrons to use.
Gene
For now, the computer seems to be fine. So I am up and running for now, but I'm still worried because the fans and computer is still over-revving... :-\ For now, I'm active, your right, our local library is equipped with many Ethernet computers.
I'm taking advantage of having a running computer for now, I just made my first Walthers order! I tried www.modeltrainstuff.com but the card number didn't work, I'll try again.
Joshua
Sorry about the double post...
Update: Although the computer is in operatable state, it seems to have a problem with the fans. For no reason, they are really over-revving, enough to rumble the wooden desk. Dust is pretty much not a problem, it was recently cleaned. Sadly, another problem, it appears my Trainz Railroad Simulator 2006 was damaged, and it doesn't work. The fans don't rev when it's working hard tasks, but both when idling at the log in page, and preforming tasks.
I'm getting worried about this computer, anyone else have heard about problems with this computer?
Link to our computer. (http://www.shopping.hp.com/webapp/shopping/product_detail.do?storeName=storefronts&landing=rts_desktop&category=rts_desktop&orderflow=1&a1=Brand&v1=Compaq+Presario&product_code=FQ582AA%23ABA&catLevel=2)
Joshua
Most PCs use 12 volt fans that run off the computer's power supply. These power supplies put out several different voltages, including +12, +5, +3.3, -5 and -12. It is normally the +12 volt supply that is used for the fans. I strongly suspect that the over reving you hear is a result of the +12 volt supply being too high in voltage.
Jim
Is there a way to correct this?
Joshua
You could try opening up the case and running the computer with the case open. The fan on the CPU should be variable speed. Follow its wires and make sure the connector is firmly attached to the right header. It should be marked CPU Fan or words to that effect (magnifying glass and mag light help a lot). Your computer shouldn't be generating a lot of heat and I doubt that there is a separate case fan. The power supply fan really isn't user servicable. You haven't been over clocking have you? If you think you need a power supply, go to newegg.com and find a unit that matches the specs on yours. Are you sure you aren't hearing your optical drive? Mine sounds like a vacuum cleaner sometimes if there's a disk in it, even if I'm not using it.
Rusty
have you ever tried taking the heat sink off the cpu and make sure the cpu heat sink paste isn't dried up . if it is the cpu will run hot . and inturn the the fans will make lots of noise . also try cleaning them . you can buy the paste at radio shack .
If you are not comfortable digging into the innards of your computer, please do not try to remove the CPU heat sink/fan. The thermal paste can sort of act like glue and firmly attach the heat sink to the CPU. If you don't know this and aren't prepared, you can damage the CPU.
If you do remove the heat sink/fan, you will then have to carefully clean the heat sink and the CPU before reapplying thermal paste. Use only a LITTLE paste. All you're trying to do is fill in the tiny irregularities between the two mating surfaces. Put a dab on the CPU and use a credit card to smooth it out. If you have a choice of thermal paste brands, Artic Silver is good.
Rusty