The Computer Cache

In the days of pirates a cache was a niche carved in the bark of a tree where treasures were hidden until retrieved. In the world of computers a cache is a special storage place for memory that improves performance by storing the contents of frequently accessed locations. Here in the Nipomo Adobe Press the Computer Cache is a special place for tips, tricks and suggestions to take the mystery out of our computers.

Welcome! On a bi-weekly basis, I will be sharing information to take away your computer frustration. In 1995 I launched Wise Owl Opportunities, which specializes in computerization and accounting. Along with working with local businesses and individuals, I have taught at our local colleges and throughout the United States and Canada. I've often been called a walking help desk and will be sharing that knowledge through the Computer Cache.

We all know the headaches computers can cause, let's start today with the basics. Think of your computer in terms of your kitchen. Your hard drive is your refrigerator where you store your goods. Memory is a temporary working area like your kitchen counter. Just as your kitchen counter is limited in space, so too is your computer. You put your meat away or it spoils, you save your files or they're gone! Put away what you're not using and you'll get better performance. Make the best of what you have.

Most importantly, remember you are in charge. Clean your hard drive of old files, just as you clean your refrigerator of questionable food. And, don't forget your maintenance. Run and update your virus scan frequently. Use your scandisk and disk defragmenter. Just pretend company's coming and do a good cleaning!