I don’t do many of these anymore, so it was nice to get back into recovering some memories for a Frolic Street neighbour. This recent project involved VHS to digital conversion, helping to preserve those memories for years to come.
Only three 3hr tapes, but 27 scenes to extract from some rather tired & re-used old tapes. Thankfully no mould present, but the tape was a bit stretched at some points, causing strange Slo-Mo effects!
After a LOT of winding & re-winding, eventually everything was extracted & ready for some digital trickery.
In to Adobe Premiere for a little clean-up of the video & some audio balancing, then it’s time to encode the files into something playable on multiple devices.
As the main recipient is a parent…. The first conversion was to a DVD format, along with some pretty menu’s, and recording to a high quality disc or three.
Then the files were converted to the x265 .MP4 format for compatibility on Apple/Windows/Android/YouTube etc, for sharing amongst the more digitally aware members of the family.
There’s nothing like seeing those old memories come back to life! 📼✨One of the joys of a job like VHS to digital conversion. Because these digital bits and pieces are so precious, it’s always good to have a backup.
You know where to find us for your tech help! 🏢🤝 Frolic House, between the Medical Practice and Driving Test Centre.
Well it’s been one of my busiest weeks ever for “Brain Picking” calls & visits. Here’s a few highlights!
“My Hard Drive is making strange ticking noises, and my computer is going really slow”
Firstly, backup all your files & data ASAP, as it sounds like your hard drive is on it’s last legs & may be failing. Once you have your stuff safely backed up, you can download a very useful tool called CrystalDiskInfo. https://crystalmark.info/en/software/crystaldiskinfo/
It will give you a very quick diagnosis of the health of any hard drive/SSD or USB drive connected to your system.
“My Printer has stopped working since changing broadband suppliers”
As you have changed suppliers, you have probably got a new Router/Modem ?….. Yes! In that case you will have to re-install/connect the printer to your WiFi, like when you first got it. There should be a WiFi/Wireless configuration Icon or Button on the Printer. If you need a guide, the Printer manufacturers website should have one available. Look for “Quick Start Guide” or similar.
“My Laptop has frozen and I can’t shut it down”
Just pulling the plug, like you can do on a desktop pc, is out of the question as a laptop has an internal battery! And as most (maybe all nowadays) have the battery secreted away under the bottom cover, it can be a bit fiddly to take it out safely & quickly.
The easiest way to shut any type of computer down if it’s being grumpy, is to hold the power button down for 5-10 seconds, and it should shut down completely. If it just comes back to the frozen screen, you didn’t hold it down long enough, Try Again!
“Where’s Disk Clean-up Gone??”
Ah, Windows 11 hiding useful stuff again. Click on the “Start” button, in the little search box at the top start typing Disk Clean and it should appear in the menu, where you can pin it to your start menu for easy access.
“Why is my internet so slow ?”
There’s so many reasons for your internet speed slowing down. It could be your supplier having issues, Dodgy phone lines, Router/Modem problems, and that’s before the list of computer problems that can cause this.
First thing to check is your computer/device. Does it take forever to start & shutdown, open programs etc? If yes, your computer could be the reason, and probably needs a little TLC.
If the computer/device starts & runs well, test the internet speed by going to www.fast.com & see if you are getting what you pay for. Bear in mind though, that if you are using WiFi, a low signal between you and your router/modem will slow things down quite significantly. Connecting your device via Ethernet (Cat5/6) cable directly to your router/modem will get a more accurate speed test.
If the speed is below what you are supposed to get, contact your broadband supplier to get things checked out.
“Do I have to get rid of my Windows 10 Computer now it’s coming to an end, and won’t upgrade to Windows 11 ?”
I get this question on a daily basis. In most cases no. As long as you are using a decent anti-virus, you’ll have a few years left in the old beast yet! As time goes by, things like Google Chrome & MS Edge may refuse to update, but that’s at least 2-5 years away.
“Where have all the options gone when I right click on stuff ?”
At the bottom of the list is the “Show More Options” button, Sneaky Win 11…
There’s a few ways to disable the truncated context menus, but make sure it’s someone who knows what they are doing!
I’m not one to usually rush into the latest updates, as I like to see if the world still works before jumping in. Understanding how a Microsoft Patch / Update can affect your system is important before deciding to install it right away.
However, there’s an urgent update from Microsoft that addresses some VERY important security issues, and has had my inbox inundated this morning by some large tech companies urging the importance of applying this fix.
From what I’ve read, I’m updating my systems now (after a full backup, of course) and would advise you to do the same.
Just go to “Windows Update” via “Settings” and check/install like the pic below:
Apple is now warning users in 98 countries of potential mercenary spyware attacks.
The message sent to the affected users says:
“Apple detected that you are being targeted by a mercenary spyware attack that is trying to remotely compromise the iPhone associated with your Apple ID.”
In the same message, Apple says that it is very likely that the person in question is being specifically targeted because of what they do or who they are. And, although there is a certain margin of error, the user should take this warning seriously.
Mercenary spyware is used by governments to target people like journalists, political activists, and similar targets, and involves the use of sophisticated tools like Pegasus. Pegasus is one of the world’s most advanced and invasive spyware tools, known to utilize zero-day vulnerabilities against mobile devices.
On the website that explains Apple threat notifications and protection against mercenary spyware, it specifically mentions Pegasus:
“According to public reporting and research by civil society organizations, technology firms, and journalists, individually targeted attacks of such exceptional cost and complexity have historically been associated with state actors, including private companies developing mercenary spyware on their behalf, such as Pegasus from the NSO Group.”
Apple has sent out similar notifications multiple times a year since 2021 but doesn’t disclose how it determines who to send them to, since that might aid attackers in evading future detection.
Amnesty International urges those that have received such a notification to take it seriously.
Amnesty’s Security Lab offers digital forensic support to potential victims like human rights defenders, activists, journalists and members of civil society.
If you are a member of civil society, and you have received an Apple notification, you can contact Amnesty International and request forensic support using the Get Help form.
Whether you’ve received that notification or not, every iPhone user should make sure they have the latest updates, protect the device with a passcode, use multi-factor authentication and a strong password for Apple ID, only install apps from the Apple Play store, use a mobile security product, and be careful what they open or tap on.
People that have reason to believe they might be individually targeted by mercenary spyware attacks, can enable Lockdown Mode on their Apple devices for additional protection.
“Lockdown Mode” does the following:
Blocks most message attachments
Blocks incoming FaceTime calls from people you have not called previously
Blocks some web technologies and browsing features
Excludes location from shared photo’s and removes Shared Albums
Blocks wired connections when the device is locked
Blocks auto-joining non-secure WiFi networks
Blocks incoming invitations from people you have not previously invited
Blocks installation of configuration profiles you may require for work or school
How to turn on Lockdown Mode on iPhone or iPad
Open the Settings app.
Tap Privacy & Security.
Scroll down, tap Lockdown Mode.
Tap Turn On Lockdown Mode.
Read what it does and tap Turn On Lockdown Mode if that is what you want.
Tap Turn On & Restart, then enter your device passcode.
🛡️ Is Your Digital Life Under Lock and Key?
While most of us won’t be targeted by state-level mercenary spyware, the basic principles of digital defense apply to everyone. If your iPhone or computer contains irreplaceable data—from family photos to business accounts—now is the time to ensure it’s safe.
At Bluesdigital, we don’t just fix hardware; we protect your digital world. If you’re worried about security, need help setting up Lockdown Mode, or want to secure your data with a “fail-safe” backup system, we are your local experts for Newtown computer services.
Don’t wait for a warning notification to act.
Data Recovery: If the worst has already happened, we can help retrieve your vital files.
Secure Backups: We’ll set up a robust system so your data survives even if your device is compromised.
Secure your tech today: ☎️ Call: 01686 610 106 📱 Text: 0783 222 7823 📍 Visit us: Frolic House, Newtown (Right between the Medical Practice & Driving Test Centre)
Oh dear…Major IT outages are hitting industries across the world, and in NewtownToo! (Morrisons, Nidec) With airlines, broadcasters and supermarkets amongst the many who are affected.
This is happening after the Banking issues on the 28th of last month, messing with transactions & the last Microsoft Azure/Bing explosion we reported on here, back in May this year.
If you are off shopping, it might be worth taking a little cash today
All Bluesdigital systems are currently working:
Payment Systems & Banking ✔️
Web & Email Hosting Services ✔️
Mobile & Fibre Internet Services ✔️
Print Services ✔️
UPDATE: 22-07-2024
Looks like things are slowly returning to normal. I’m still hearing of a few problems from customers using the English NHS and access to patient records, along with some Airport/Travel delays, but overall, pretty good considering the initial impact of one AntiVirus program update.
“If you had: No financial limits, No eco concerns, and Abundant physical space, ie, where to keep it…What computer that is available today, would you buy for home or Bluesdigital or both and why?”
Hmmm, Well first off it would be for work, as I don’t really use a computer anywhere else, and my little iPhone does me fine when I’m not here.
Next, “Off the Shelf” or Custom Build………..
The Case: iONZ KZ-X1. A Sturdy little case that is plenty big enough for my needs & easy to chuck in the boot of the car, for a bit of LAN Party action at home. Available on Amazon https://amzn.to/3xOM9ql
Power Supply: Corsair RM1000e. Gold rated, with plenty of grunt. Also very flexible with all those connections. More than double what is needed, but that means smooth cool running, with lots in reserve. Good deal on Amazon here: https://amzn.to/3VVQPCR
Motherboard: MSI PRO B650M-P. No Frills, Fast Chipset, Nuff Said!
CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 7900. 12 Cores /24 Threads & Lot’s of Mhz = lots of flexibility for doing the chores of Video/Image editing & all done using the minimum of power, keeping everything cool & dandy.
Memory: CORSAIR VENGEANCE. 96GB (2x48GB) of some of the best DDR5 memory on the market. Stability is everything with your work PC, and this over specced’ RAM is just the ticket. Of course you can find on Amazon here: https://amzn.to/3VVVRzf
SSD #1: Corsair MP600 ELITE 2TB. Top of the range performance for my “Windows” Drive, and plenty of room for all my junk. On Amazon here: https://amzn.to/45XBwy7
SSD #2: Lexar NQ790 4TB. As a “Work” Drive, Healthy speeds & lots of capacity are a must. Find it on Amazon here: https://amzn.to/3xP9Pef
Graphics Card: Sparkle Intel Arc A580. Any Gamers reading this will probably raise an eyebrow at my choice of graphics. But this 3rd Gen Intel has fantastic video processing, great Photoshop support & is plenty fast enough for any casual gaming if required. Prices are finally starting to come down on these rare card’s, so head over to Amazon if you want one: https://amzn.to/4f1VgEH
With a Parts list just over £1,600.00…… “How long till my birthday?”
A little note from Bluesdigital: ☕ As an Amazon Associate [bluesdigital-21], I may earn a small commission if you use the links above to grab your parts. It doesn’t cost you a penny extra, but it really helps support what we do here at Frolic House—so a massive thanks if you choose to use them! 🙌
Ready to build your own powerhouse? 🛠️💻
If you’re looking for top-tierNewtown computer services, look no further! You can grab this exact “Birthday Wishlist” spec via the Amazon links above and build it yourself, or get in touch if you need a hand with a custom setup. 🚀
Whether you’re chasing those 12 Ryzen cores or that massive 96GB of RAM, I’m here to help you get the best performance for your pound. 💷✨
Find us here: 📍 Bluesdigital | Frolic House (Right between the Medical Practice and the Driving Test Centre!) ☎️ Call us: 01686 610 106 🛍️
I’ve been using a lot of these great-value little powerhouses lately, and for good reason! 🛠️
Whether you’re chomping through a heavy day of admin, diving into some graphic design, or tackling audio/video edits, the Ryzen 5 5500GT is a fantastic all-round performer.
Why I’m recommending it:
Efficiency: It draws just 65W of energy, even at full tilt. ⚡
Power: 6 Cores and 12 Threads mean it doesn’t break a sweat under pressure.
Value: At just over £100 on Amazon right now, it’s incredible “bang for your buck.” 💷✨
As an Amazon Associate [bluesdigital-21], I may earn a small commission if you use the link above. It doesn’t cost you a penny extra, but it helps keep the lights on here at Frolic House—so thanks for the support! 🙌
Not sure about fitting it yourself? Or looking to build a new system around this efficient chip? We’ve got you covered. From simple upgrades to full custom builds, we provide the most reliable Newtown computer services to keep your tech running smooth and cool.
Get in touch: ☎️ Call: 01686 610 106 📱 Text: 0783 222 7823 📍 Visit us: Frolic House, Newtown (Right between the Medical Practice & Driving Test Centre)
We’ve got some great deals on our fav’ Anti-Virus, Malwarebytes Premium.
Keep your tech safe! 🛡️✨
Standard security isn’t always enough for today’s threats. We’ve got some fantastic deals on our favourite protection: Malwarebytes Premium. It’s lightweight, powerful, and catches what others miss! 🚫🦠
For the best Newtown computer services and advice on keeping your devices secure, give us a shout. We can get you set up in no time!
Get in touch:
☎️ Call: 01686 610 106
📱 Text: 0783 222 7823
📍 Visit us: Frolic House, Newtown (Between the Medical Practice & Driving Test Centre)
I just caught this “Netflix” scam email hitting my inbox. At a quick glance, it looks pretty authentic, but once you look closer, the cracks start to show. 🕵️♂️
How to spot the fake:
The Grammar: Keep an eye out for awkward phrasing and spelling errors—legitimate companies usually get these right.
The Link: If you hover over the button (don’t click!), the link goes to a dodgy-looking scam site, not Netflix.com.
The Sender: The email address it came from was a random string of characters—definitely not an official Netflix domain.
Scammers are getting better, but they still make mistakes. If an email feels “off,” it probably is!
Is your tech protected? 🛡️
If you’ve accidentally clicked a suspicious link or you’re worried that your computer might have picked up something nasty, bring it into our Newtown computer shop.
We offer full security health checks, virus removal, and expert advice to keep your personal data safe. Don’t let the scammers win—pop into Frolic House and we’ll make sure your security is watertight.
Get in touch: ☎️ Call: 01686 610 106 📱 Text: 0783 222 7823 📍 Visit us: Frolic House, Newtown (Right between the Medical Practice & Driving Test Centre)
