As regards PC or Laptops that suddenly won't boot properly or is a big problem when running/limping. Here's a different windows type replacement for nearly free. Needs a little preparation and is a test for yourself. Read fully first.
1. Hardware requirement:
A spare hard drive for either PC or Laptop and one that is used for a laptop will be useful for both. Laptop size is 2.5 inch. PC desktop type is usually 3.5 inch and only fits the PC.
CD or USB stick
2. Software requirement:
Linux for Windows and which is free and works well. I use Ubuntu Linux when Microsoft windows fails. It can run from a CD or USB stick directly. Run directly is for test/familiarisation really because nothing you attempt to save will be saved. Download:
www.ubuntu.com/download/desktop (either 32bit or 64bit version and depends on your computer hardware). If in doubt use 32bit.
Ubuntu Linux software can be loaded to either a CDROM or USB stick. Do this with a PC that still works of course. Be prepared. Or just boot the CD/USB stick directly to just have a look? May need a computer BIOS Boot order change.
Ubuntu is a very light windows type application that works well with Open Source Apps (Open Office/Firefox and email)
3. Some small tools to change a hard drive (with the power off). It is very simple and goes as far as a philips screwdriver usually.
4. Procedure: (keeping fingers off of electronic parts and edge connectors)
Switch off and disconnect power to computer
Remove suspect drive
Insert spare drive
Switch on
Insert CD or USB stick to load Unix to the spare hard drive which will ask you for a username and password (to remember) at setup end.
When this sets up it will connect to your Web Router asking for ISP logon details - you should have?
Firefox browser is automatically loaded on this installation, Google therefore available
Email requires you to download an app called Thunderbird. Thats a little tricky to setup and works.
Once the above is setup the hard drive can be used on any PC/Laptop at anytime. There are no viruses attached to Linux that I know of. The thieves are not really interested in Linux users.
This arrangement is useful to determine whether you have a computer hardware or windows fault. Usually its software, but you may like to be sure? If Linux works then your hardware is good. You could use just the CD/USB stick for the hardware check.
This maybe useless to some folk, but I hope its complete and may help?
