~ COMPUTER TRICKS

Number Locking

(Sorry, no picts on this one, I can't grab a screen shot without Windows running)

Does your NumLock key need to be activated every time you boot your computer? Well, *most* computers have a setting that allows you to have it turn on automatically. Since this tip requires you to play around with your computer's system settings (NOT Windows settings), I need to tell you that it's a do-at-your-own-risk deal (more so than usual).

Since all computers are a little different, you may find the instructions below aren't *exactly* what you'll encounter. So, with that in mind, here's how to automatically turn on that NUM Lock key:

1. Turn your computer on. As it's going through its memory tests and getting ready to start loading windows, look for something that says "Press xxxxx To Enter Setup" (mine actually says: "Press DEL to enter setup").

These instructions are usually in the lower left hand corner of your screen. If you don't see any instructions, try hitting your Escape key. That will sometimes clear any "splash screen" and let you see what's behind it. If that doesn't work, you may have to dig through your manual to figure out how to get into your system setup.

Please note that this is done well before Windows wakes up. In fact, for most computers you'll need to do it within a few seconds of boot up.

2. Hopefully you're now in the System Setup area. The Num Lock setting is normally under an option like "BIOS Features Setup" and is called something cryptic like "Boot up NumLock status" You'll need to use your arrow keys to navigate around and usually your Page up / Page Down keys to change settings. Once you arrow to the setting, turn it on (again, probably with your Page up/ Page down keys)

3. After it's set, hit the ESCAPE button. Most computer setup screens have two exit options, one to save and exit and the other to not save and exit. Select the "save and exit" option (you may have to confirm by pressing the "y" key) and your computer should re-boot.

That's about it. If you did everything correctly, your NumLock key should now be turning itself on.