How-To Geek - PC Optimization

How to Pin a Website to the Windows 10 Taskbar or Start Menu

Joel Cornell — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 16:00:13 GMT

In Google Chrome, click the three vertical dots, then navigate to Save and Share > Create Shortcut.

What Is a Graphene Thermal Pad and How Does It Work?

Ismar Hrnjicevic — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 13:15:13 GMT

There's nothing wrong with traditional thermal compounds. They're cheap, reliable, and can keep your computer parts decently cool. Still, if you're looking for a more permanent solution with excellent performance, start looking at graphene thermal pads.

What Is the Gamma Setting on a Monitor or TV?

Ismar Hrnjicevic — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 14:00:13 GMT

Brightness and contrast are two self-explanatory display settings and are pretty easy to configure. However, you might have noticed a mysterious third setting called "gamma." This article will explain everything you need to know about gamma and what to set it to.

What Is a Phase-Change Thermal Pad and How Does It Work?

Ismar Hrnjicevic — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 16:15:13 GMT

Thermal pads and paste are integral parts of our computers' cooling mechanisms. We've seen various iterations of those materials over the decades. A recent development in the field has emerged, and what's exciting is that it leverages a physical process called "phase change."

Syncing RGB Lighting Across Brands: Why It's Tricky and How to Do It

Ismar Hrnjicevic — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 17:00:22 GMT

If you've recently made the mistake of purchasing an RGB device from a manufacturer that isn't the same as your other goodies, you might find yourself frustrated because you can't sync everything up. Fortunately, we have just the right solution for your RGB needs.

What Is TJMax in CPUs?

Ismar Hrnjicevic — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 16:16:18 GMT

If you've monitored your CPU temperature or looked at its product page, you might have encountered the term "TJMax." But what does this peculiar specification mean, and have you ever wondered what would happen if your CPU were to reach its TJMax?

How to Rearrange Multiple Monitors on Windows 10

Benj Edwards — Sat, 06 Jan 2024 13:30:18 GMT

If you're running a multiple-monitor setup in Windows 10, it is important to let the operating systems know how they're arranged in physical space so they work properly. Here's how to do it.

What Is a Heatsink, and How Does It Work?

Ismar Hrnjicevic — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 16:15:22 GMT

If you've ever peered inside a computer, you must have noticed those odd-looking hunks of metal. These parts are called "heatsinks." Without them, our computers would be significantly less powerful. What exactly is a heatsink, though, and how does it work?

What Is Hardware Acceleration, and When Should You Turn It On?

Sydney Butler — Sun, 31 Dec 2023 13:00:22 GMT

All computer software runs on hardware, so what the heck does it mean for software to use "hardware acceleration" if hardware is doing the job already? It turns out there are ways of doing things with computer hardware that's faster. Much faster.

CPU_FAN vs. CPU_OPT on Motherboards: What's the Difference?

Ismar Hrnjicevic — Sun, 24 Dec 2023 17:30:22 GMT

You'll come across many similar-looking fan headers when trying to find your way around the motherboard to connect to the CPU cooler. And while the printed labels can help you navigate the motherboard, they aren't exactly descriptive. For example, what does CPU_FAN and CPU_OPT even mean?