Q: I have Windows XP but it is running really slow. Is there any way of speeding it up?

A; A good way is to turn off some of the graphics functions that are only there to make things look pretty. You can do this by clicking with the right mouse button on My Computer, selecting Properties then the Advanced tab.

Press the Settings button under the Performance section and turn off any of the settings you feel you do not want to use.

Q: How can I record sounds and have them play when I do things in Windows?

A: You can use the Windows Sound Recorder or Media Player to record sounds on to your PC using a microphone or phono audio lead from anything that can give a sound output, like a hi-fi.

The Help file for the player should tell you exactly how to do this. Once it has been recorded, save the sound file in a place you will remember. Then open the Control Panel and click on Sounds.

There you will see a list of actions and the sounds they cause. Click on one of the actions and then, using the Browse option, select your sound file.

When you perform that action, you should hear the sound loud and clear. Although playing sounds on set actions can be fun at first, it can soon get on your nerves and you may soon be hating yourself for fiddling with your machine in the first place.

Q: I want to upgrade my PC's memory. Can I use Double Data Rate (DDR)

memory?

A: DDR memory is slightly more expensive than standard memory because, as the name suggests, it can handle double the data rate.

However, you can only use DDR memory if your computer's motherboard supports it. Some motherboards can take both standard SDRAM and DDR memory types but you must check the manual to find out whether it can use both at the same time.

Q: My friend can watch TV on his computer. I looked at the back of mine but couldn't find anywhere for the aerial to go. How do I do it?

A: You need to buy a special TV card to fit into your PC. There is quite a variety of choice, with different capabilities.

Some let you watch digital TV and listen to the radio. Some plug directly into your USB port, while others have to be slotted inside the PC case.

It is worth consulting your PC dealer about which best meets your needs.