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It’s a situation that can cause a moment of panic: you press your laptop’s power button, and nothing happens. Maybe the button feels loose, is physically stuck, or has simply given up after years of use. Before you assume the worst, it’s helpful to know that a non-functional power button doesn’t always mean your laptop is finished. There are several ways you might be able to get it running again, giving you time to back up your files or find a more permanent repair.

While not every method works for every laptop model, these tricks are worth trying. They often rely on built-in features designed for different purposes, like remote management or external device control, which can cleverly bypass the need for that main power button.

Using Your Laptop’s Keyboard to Wake It

If your laptop is in sleep mode and won’t wake up with the power button, your keyboard might be the key. Many laptops allow you to wake the system from sleep by pressing any key on the keyboard. Try pressing the spacebar or a letter key to see if the screen lights up. For this to work, the laptop must have power and simply be in a low-power state, not fully shut down.

Configuring Wake-on-LAN for a Network Start

This is a more advanced but very effective method. Wake-on-LAN (WoL) is a feature that lets you turn on a computer over a network connection. To use it, you’ll first need to enable it in your laptop’s BIOS/UEFI settings while the laptop is still working. You would then use another device on the same network, like your phone or another computer, with a WoL app to send a “magic packet” that starts your laptop. This is a great solution if you can plan ahead for a potential button failure.

Opening the Lid to Trigger Power

Check your power settings for a feature often called “power on lid open.” If this is enabled, simply opening the laptop lid can automatically start the machine. You can usually find this option within the power management section of your BIOS/UEFI settings. It’s a convenient hands-free way to boot up, provided the setting was activated before the power button stopped working.

Connecting an External Keyboard

Some laptop models, though not all, can be configured to start up when they detect an input from an external USB keyboard. This might require a setting change in the BIOS. If it’s enabled, plugging in a USB keyboard and pressing its power key (if it has one) or another designated key might just do the trick.

When to Consider a Professional Repair

While these software-based workarounds are helpful, a broken power button is a hardware issue that will likely need a fix eventually. If your laptop is under warranty, contact the manufacturer. Otherwise, a reputable repair technician can often replace the power button assembly itself, which is usually a more affordable solution than replacing the entire motherboard.

Dealing with a broken power button can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to stop you in your tracks. Trying these methods can help you regain access to your system and your important files, giving you the breathing room to decide on the best long-term solution for your laptop.

Have you ever needed to quickly save what’s on your Acer laptop screen? Maybe it’s a funny chat conversation, an important online receipt, or an error message you need to show tech support. Taking a screenshot is a simple yet powerful skill that lets you capture a perfect image of your screen in an instant. It’s much faster than taking a photo with your phone and gives you a clear, high-quality picture to use however you like.

Whether you’re using Windows 10 or the newer Windows 11, your Acer laptop comes with several built-in methods to take a screenshot. From a full-screen capture to a specific window or a custom-selected area, there’s a tool for every situation. Let’s look at the easiest ways to get the shot you need.

The Quickest Way: Capture the Entire Screen

For a fast, full-screen capture, look for the PrtSc key on your keyboard, usually located in the top row. Pressing this key copies an image of your entire screen to your clipboard. It doesn’t look like anything happened, but the image is saved in your computer’s temporary memory. To see it, open an app like Paint or Microsoft Word and press Ctrl + V to paste it. You can then save the file as a JPEG or PNG.

Instantly Save a Screenshot as a File

If you don’t want to bother with pasting, there’s an even faster method. Simply press the Windows key + PrtSc at the same time. Your screen will dim briefly to confirm the action. The screenshot is automatically saved as a PNG file in a folder called “Screenshots,” which you can find inside your “Pictures” library. This is perfect for when you need to capture a series of images quickly.

Taking a Flexible Screenshot of a Specific Area

What if you only need a part of your screen? The Snipping Tool is your best friend. You can open it by searching for it in the Start Menu or by pressing Windows Key + Shift + S. Your screen will dim, and a small menu will appear at the top letting you choose a rectangular snip, a freeform snip, or to capture a specific window. After you select an area, a notification will appear; click on it to open the screenshot in the Snipping Tool app where you can annotate, save, or share it.

A Few Helpful Tips for Better Screenshots

Before you capture, take a quick moment to tidy up your desktop. Close any unnecessary windows or tabs to keep the focus on what’s important. Remember that the PrtSc key by itself only copies the image, so you must paste it somewhere to use it. The Windows Key + PrtSc shortcut, however, saves it directly as a file for you.

With these simple methods, you’re now equipped to capture anything on your Acer laptop screen with ease. The next time you see something you want to save or share, you’ll know exactly which key combination to use.

Have you ever been working in a quiet room when your laptop’s fan suddenly kicks in, sounding like a small jet engine? It can be distracting, especially when you’re trying to focus or enjoy a movie. You might be wondering if it’s possible, or even safe, to turn that fan off to regain some peace and quiet.

While you can’t usually turn a laptop fan off completely without causing damage, you can certainly calm it down. The fan’s primary job is to keep your laptop’s internal components from overheating. A loud fan is often a cry for help, and by addressing the root cause, you can often restore silence.

Why Your Laptop Fan is Working So Hard

Before you try to quiet the fan, it helps to know why it’s so loud. Common reasons include running too many programs at once, dust buildup inside the laptop, or background processes using a lot of power. High-performance tasks like video editing or gaming will also naturally make the fan spin faster. By figuring out the cause, you can choose the best solution.

Simple Steps to Calm a Noisy Fan

Start with the easiest fixes first. Close any applications you aren’t actively using. A surprising number of browser tabs or programs running in the background can push your computer’s processor, generating more heat. Next, give your laptop some breathing room. Make sure it’s on a hard, flat surface—not a soft blanket or your lap—so the air vents aren’t blocked.

Adjusting Your Power Settings for Quiet Operation

Your laptop’s power plan has a big effect on fan noise. Switching to a power-saving mode can significantly reduce heat generation. On Windows, you can find this in the Control Panel under “Power Options.” On a Mac, look for “Energy Saver” in System Preferences. This setting tells your computer to prioritize efficiency over performance, which often results in a quieter fan.

When to Clean Your Laptop’s Interior

If simple fixes don’t work, dust might be the culprit. Over time, dust clogs the air vents and internal heatsinks, forcing the fan to work much harder to push air through. If you’re comfortable, you can carefully use a can of compressed air to blow out the vents. For a deeper clean, consider having a professional service the laptop, especially if it’s still under warranty.

A Note on Software and Manual Control

You might find software online that claims to give you manual control over your laptop fan. We generally advise against using these. Your laptop’s built-in cooling system is designed to protect its delicate components. Overriding it can lead to overheating and permanent damage. It’s always safer to help the cooling system work efficiently rather than trying to turn it off.

Managing your laptop’s fan noise is about working with its cooling system, not against it. By keeping your software tidy, ensuring good airflow, and adjusting a few settings, you can often achieve the quiet computing experience you’re looking for while keeping your machine safe and healthy for years to come.

Have you ever wanted to quickly save what’s on your HP laptop screen? Maybe it’s a funny conversation, an important confirmation number, or a beautiful image you found online. Taking a screenshot is one of the most useful computer skills, and it’s surprisingly simple on your Windows 10 HP laptop.

You don’t need any special software to get started. Windows 10 provides several built-in methods to capture your screen, from a full-screen grab to a precise selection of just the area you need. Let’s look at the easiest ways to do it.

The Quickest Way: Print Screen Key

Look at the top-right of your HP laptop’s keyboard for the PrtScn key. Pressing it once captures an image of your entire screen. It copies the screenshot to your clipboard, which is like a temporary holding area. To see it, open an app like Paint or Microsoft Word and press Ctrl + V to paste it. You can then save the file.

Instantly Save a Full-Screen Screenshot

If you want to skip the pasting step, this shortcut is for you. Simply hold down the Windows logo key and then press PrtScn. Your screen will dim for a moment, confirming the capture. The screenshot is automatically saved as a PNG file in your Pictures > Screenshots folder for easy access later.

Capturing Just One Window

Don’t need the whole desktop? To take a clean screenshot of just the active window you’re using, press Alt + PrtScn. This copies only that specific window to your clipboard. You can then paste it into any application that accepts images.

Using the Flexible Snipping Tool

For the most control, the Snipping Tool is a fantastic option. Type “Snipping Tool” into your Windows search bar and open the app. Click New and your cursor will change to a crosshair. Click and drag to select any part of your screen you want to capture. You can then draw on it, highlight text, and save it directly to your preferred location.

A More Advanced Option: Snip & Sketch

Windows 10 also offers Snip & Sketch, an updated tool with more features. Press Windows Key + Shift + S to activate it instantly. Your screen will gray out, and a small menu lets you choose a rectangular snip, a freeform snip, or a full-window capture. Your selection is copied to the clipboard and a notification appears, allowing you to annotate and save it.

With these methods at your fingertips, you’re well-equipped to capture anything on your HP laptop’s screen. Whether you need speed or precision, one of these techniques will be the perfect fit for your task.

Have you ever needed to quickly save what’s on your laptop screen? Whether it’s a funny conversation, an important confirmation number, or a beautiful image you found online, knowing how to take a screenshot is an essential digital skill. It’s like having a camera for your computer, ready to capture a moment in time. The process might seem a little different depending on whether you use a Windows laptop or a MacBook, but it’s surprisingly simple once you know which buttons to press.

The Easiest Way to Capture Your Entire Screen

For a quick, full-screen capture, both Windows and Mac have a dedicated key. On a Windows laptop, simply press the PrtScn (Print Screen) key. This copies an image of your entire screen to your clipboard, which you can then paste into an application like Microsoft Paint or a Word document. On a MacBook, press Command + Shift + 3 simultaneously. The screenshot will instantly save as a file on your desktop, making it easy to find later.

Taking a Screenshot of Just One Window

What if you only want a picture of a single program window, like your web browser, without the rest of your desktop? This is just as easy. Windows users can press Alt + PrtScn. This copies only the active window to your clipboard. For Mac users, the shortcut is Command + Shift + 4, followed by the Spacebar. Your cursor will turn into a little camera icon; just click on the window you want to capture.

Selecting a Specific Area to Capture

For the most control, you can select a custom portion of your screen. This is perfect for capturing a specific paragraph of text or a single image. On a Mac, press Command + Shift + 4. Your cursor turns into a crosshair; click and drag to select the area you want. On Windows 10 and 11, the best tool for this is the Snipping Tool or the Snip & Sketch utility. You can open it from your Start Menu or by pressing Windows Key + Shift + S to instantly snip a selected area.

Finding and Using Your Screenshots

After you take a screenshot, you need to know where it went. Full-screen captures on a Mac automatically save to your desktop. On Windows, using the Print Screen key only copies the image to your clipboard. You must open a program like Paint, Word, or an email and press Ctrl + V to paste it. Using the Snipping Tool on Windows gives you options to save, copy, or annotate your screenshot right away.

With these simple steps, you can easily capture anything on your laptop screen. It’s a small skill that can save you a lot of time and effort, making it simpler to share information and keep records of what you see on your computer.

It’s a situation that can bring your work to a sudden halt: you press the power button on your laptop, and nothing happens. Maybe the button feels loose, is physically stuck, or has simply stopped working after years of use. Before you assume the worst or start shopping for a new machine, it’s helpful to know that you might have other options for getting your laptop running again.

While the power button is the primary way to start a computer, it’s not always the only way. Several alternative methods can act as a temporary workaround, allowing you to access your files and continue working while you figure out a more permanent repair.

Check Your Laptop’s External Power Options

Many modern laptops have built-in features designed for convenience that can also serve as a backup start method. One of the first places to look is your laptop’s keyboard. Some models have a dedicated key—often located in the top row—that can be programmed to wake the computer from sleep or even turn it on. Consult your user manual or the manufacturer’s website to see if your specific model supports this feature.

Using Wake-on-LAN for a Remote Start

If your laptop is connected to a network via an Ethernet cable, you might be able to use a feature called Wake-on-LAN (WoL). This technology allows a computer to be turned on remotely by a special network message. To use it, WoL must first be enabled in your computer’s BIOS or UEFI settings—which you can’t access if the laptop is completely off. This method is often more useful for computers that are in sleep mode rather than fully powered down, but it’s a valuable tool to know about for tech-savvy users.

Accessing the Motherboard Directly

For those who are comfortable with a more hands-on approach, it is sometimes possible to start a laptop by briefly shorting the two power switch pins on the motherboard. This is essentially what the physical button does mechanically. You would need to carefully open the laptop’s case, locate the correct pins (using a service manual or online guide for your model), and gently touch them both at the same time with a metal object like a small screwdriver. This method carries a risk of static damage, so it should only be considered if you are confident in your technical skills.

When to Seek Professional Repair

While these workarounds can be effective, they are usually temporary solutions. A non-functional power button often indicates a hardware problem that needs to be addressed. If your laptop is under warranty, contact the manufacturer. Otherwise, a reputable repair technician can typically replace the faulty power button or keyboard assembly, restoring the normal function of your device without the need for risky workarounds.

Dealing with a broken power button can be frustrating, but it doesn’t necessarily mean your laptop is finished. By trying these methods, you can potentially regain access to your system and buy yourself the time needed to arrange a proper, lasting fix.

Knowing how to properly shut down your Asus laptop is one of those simple but essential skills that keeps everything running smoothly. It might seem as easy as closing the lid, but a proper shutdown ensures your work is saved, updates are correctly installed, and your laptop gets the rest it needs. Whether you’re new to the Asus family or just need a quick refresher, we’re here to guide you through the simple steps.

The Standard Way to Power Down

This is the method you’ll use most often. First, make sure you’ve saved all your open documents and closed any running programs. Then, look at the bottom-left corner of your screen and click the Start Menu (the Windows icon). In the menu that pops up, you’ll see a power button symbol. Click on it, and a small menu will appear with options like Sleep, Shut down, and Restart. Simply select Shut down, and your Asus laptop will begin closing all applications and powering off completely.

Using a Keyboard Shortcut for Speed

If your mouse isn’t working or you just prefer using the keyboard, there’s a fast way to access the shutdown menu. Press the Alt + F4 keys simultaneously while you’re on your desktop (make sure all other programs are closed). This will bring up a “Shut Down Windows” dialog box. Use the drop-down menu to select “Shut down” and then hit Enter. Your laptop will immediately begin the shutdown process.

When to Use Sleep vs. Shut Down

You might wonder when it’s better to just put your laptop to sleep. The Sleep mode is fantastic for short breaks, as it puts your laptop in a low-power state that lets you resume your work almost instantly. However, a full Shut down is best when you won’t be using the laptop for an extended period. It gives your system a fresh start, helps clear temporary files, and ensures any pending Windows updates are completed, which is vital for maintaining performance and security.

What to Do If Your Laptop Isn’t Responding

Occasionally, a program might freeze, making the normal shutdown methods impossible. In this case, you can perform a forced shutdown. Press and hold the physical power button on your laptop for about 5 to 10 seconds. This will force the laptop to turn off. It’s important to only use this as a last resort, as it doesn’t allow programs to save your data properly.

By using the right shutdown method for the situation, you’re not just turning off a device; you’re taking good care of your Asus laptop. This simple habit helps protect your data and keeps your system running reliably for years to come.

Have you ever needed to quickly capture what’s on your laptop screen? Maybe it’s a funny chat conversation, a high score in a game, or an error message you need to show tech support. Taking a picture of your laptop screen, often called a screenshot, is a simple skill that comes in handy more often than you might think. It’s a fast and effective way to save and share information.

You don’t need any special equipment or a camera phone. Your laptop already has everything you need built right in. Whether you’re using Windows or macOS, the process is straightforward. Let’s look at the easiest ways to capture your screen.

Using the Print Screen Key on Windows

For Windows users, the quickest method is the Print Screen key, often labeled as PrtScn or something similar. Pressing this key takes a picture of your entire screen and copies it to your clipboard. It’s like taking a photo, but it’s stored in your computer’s temporary memory. To see it or save it, you need to paste it into a program like Microsoft Paint, a Word document, or even an email. Just open the program and press Ctrl + V to paste the image.

Capturing a Specific Area with Snipping Tool

If you only need a part of your screen, the Snipping Tool is your best friend. You can find it by searching for it in your Start Menu. This tool lets you draw a box around exactly what you want to capture. You can take a rectangular snip, a free-form snip, or even capture a specific window. Once you take the snip, it opens in a simple editor where you can save it directly as an image file.

How to Take a Screenshot on a Mac

If you’re using a Mac, the process is just as simple. Press Command + Shift + 3 to instantly capture the entire screen. The image will automatically save as a file on your desktop. For more control, press Command + Shift + 4. Your cursor will change to a crosshair, allowing you to click and drag to select only the portion of the screen you want. It’s a very precise way to get the perfect shot.

Tips for a Perfect Screenshot

For the clearest results, make sure the content you want to capture is visible on the screen. Close any unnecessary windows or tabs to avoid clutter. If you’re taking a picture of a video, pausing it will give you a sharper image. Remember, screenshots capture everything, so double-check that you aren’t sharing any private information accidentally.

Mastering these simple steps makes sharing what’s on your screen effortless. The next time you need to save an online receipt, document a software issue, or share a memorable moment, you’ll know exactly what to do.

That little battery icon in the corner of your screen holds a lot of power over your day. When it’s healthy, you have the freedom to work from anywhere. But when it starts to fade, you find yourself constantly searching for an outlet. Knowing how to check your laptop’s battery health is the first step to avoiding that low-power panic and planning for the future.

It’s a simple process that gives you a clear picture of your battery’s capacity and how much life it has left. You don’t need to be a tech expert to get this valuable information. Let’s look at a few easy ways to check in on your battery’s well-being.

Using Built-in Windows Battery Reporting

If you’re a Windows user, your operating system has a handy, hidden tool that generates a detailed battery report. To access it, press the Windows Key + R, type cmd to open the Command Prompt, and then type powercfg /batteryreport. Press Enter, and Windows will save an HTML file to a folder on your PC—usually your user folder.

Open that file in your web browser, and you’ll see a wealth of information. Pay close attention to the DESIGN CAPACITY and FULL CHARGE CAPACITY. As your battery ages, the full charge capacity will naturally be lower than the design capacity. This shows you how much charge your battery can actually hold compared to when it was new.

Checking Battery Health on a Mac

For Mac users, the process is even more straightforward. Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner of your screen and select About This Mac. Then, click on System Report and navigate to Power in the sidebar. Here, you’ll find the Cycle Count and Condition of your battery.

Compare your cycle count to the maximum cycle count listed for your Mac model on Apple’s website. The condition will typically say “Normal” if things are okay, or it may offer a service recommendation if the battery needs attention.

Simple Habits for a Longer Battery Life

Beyond just testing, a few good habits can help preserve your battery’s health. Try to avoid letting your laptop drain to 0% regularly. Similarly, it’s best not to keep it plugged in at 100% all the time. If you mainly use your laptop as a desktop computer, consider enabling a battery charge limit in your system settings if available, which can significantly reduce wear.

Keeping an eye on your laptop’s battery health is a small task that pays off in big ways. A quick check every few months can help you anticipate when a replacement might be needed, ensuring you’re never caught off guard by a failing battery.

If you find yourself constantly switching between tabs and windows on your laptop, there’s a better way to work. Setting up dual monitors can dramatically increase your screen real estate, making you more organized and efficient. Whether you’re a professional managing multiple applications, a student researching and writing, or just someone who enjoys having more space, connecting a second screen is a straightforward process that feels like a major upgrade.

Checking Your Laptop’s Available Ports

The first step is to look at the sides of your laptop to see what video output ports you have. You’ll likely find an HDMI port, which is the most common rectangular connector. Some laptops may have a DisplayPort, which looks similar but has one angled corner, or older VGA ports. Many modern laptops also use USB-C ports that can carry a video signal. Identifying which ports you have will determine what kind of cable or adapter you need to purchase for your monitor.

Connecting Your Hardware and Configuring Windows

Once you have the right cable or adapter, simply connect one end to your laptop and the other to your second monitor. Plug both the laptop and monitor into power and turn them on. In most cases, Windows will automatically detect the new display. To adjust how it works, right-click on your desktop and select Display settings. Here, you can arrange the virtual screens to match your physical setup. You can also choose between extending your display (which gives you more space) or duplicating it (which shows the same thing on both screens).

Choosing the Right Display Mode for You

Extending your display is the most popular choice for productivity. It allows you to drag windows and applications from your laptop screen over to the second monitor. Imagine having your email open on one screen while you work on a document on the other—it eliminates the need to constantly minimize and resize windows. Duplicating your display is useful for presentations, where you want your audience to see exactly what’s on your laptop screen.

Simple Tips for a Smoother Experience

For the best experience, try to use monitors that are similar in size and resolution. This makes moving your cursor between them feel more seamless. If your laptop has limited ports, a USB-C or USB docking station can be a great investment, providing multiple video outputs along with extra USB ports. Don’t forget to also adjust the brightness and color settings on your new monitor to comfortably match your primary laptop screen.

With just one cable and a few clicks in your settings, you can open up a new world of digital workspace. This simple setup is a small change that makes a big difference in your daily workflow, helping you see everything you need at a glance.