Top 5 Text Expansion Tools for Windows Users

If you are someone who is writing the same type of email and responses every single day, chances are you are inserting similar lines regularly and tweaking it according to the client or customer. Even if you are a blogger who writes a few similar lines and quotes to greet or end the blog, you most probably spend a lot of time typing similar things. Sometimes, it can be frustrating to write similar things repeatedly, and it consumes a lot of time. Thankfully, you can skip this haggle-filled process by using a reliable text expander tool. A text expander tool lets you create shortcuts for words and phrases you use regularly.

Using such tools, you can work faster and save time. If you want to reduce the time you spend on writing, use the text expansion tools given in the list below:

PhraseExpander

PhraseExpander’s text expansion and templating solution stand out because it has been developed for the Doctors. Its Autocorrect feature corrects spelling mistakes and typos, no matter what application you are writing. And as you type, it will be hard to spell and long texts as well. You can set up customized templates and share them easily with other doctors in the practice or your staff. You can import the data stored in Word, Excel, etc., into PhraseExpander and work on them. You can also analyze your documents and extract the commonly used terms and phrases. You can check their extensive videos to get a better idea about the tools.

FastKeys

FastKeys is a fully customizable app that will help you automate your tasks and work efficiently. You can easily create keyboard ‘Shortcuts’ to do anything with a keystroke. You can also run programs, open sites, or powerful scripts to automate your PC. It can expand abbreviations for frequently used text and save hours of typing. You can execute tasks using mouse gestures. It features a Macro Recorder that records the keystrokes and mouse actions to teach your PC to perform tasks automatically. It will let you keep track of everything you copy into your clipboard and quickly access any item from the history. 

TextExpander

TextExpander has a unique feature that lets you connect with your teammates for remaining updates, consistent, and accurate during your work hours. It will allow you to create powerful snippets to save your time so that all you type is a short abbreviation, and the TextExpander app will do the rest of the typing. You can use fill-in-the-blank snippets to create custom forms with multiple field types and sections. You can also create email signatures and snippets with formatted text, pictures, and links that will be unique for every occasion. It also lets you insert the date, anywhere, along with future due dates to your invoices and current dates to your file names without even checking your calendar.

FastFox Text Expander

FastFox is an instant word expander, keyboard shortcut, and macros software. With this app, you only have to type your shortcut, and it will automatically expand to your saved text. This app runs in the background to use it with any platform, like MS Word, Email, Outlook, etc. You can easily create custom shortcuts by inserting your commonly used words and phrases and expand the paragraphs, documents, images, and more. There is no limit for creating shortcuts. You can create shortcuts for image documents as well. It can also expand abbreviations.

PhraseExpress

PhraseExpress is a text expansion app that manages your frequently used text templates for insertion into any program. The Template Manager organizes text templates in multiple languages, or you can customize it into categories. You can use the Snippet menu for triggering phrases by their auto text shortcuts. You can use the shortcuts on any platform and share the phrases with other users in the local network or the cloud, on-premise, or over the internet. It supports any popular cloud service, such as Dropbox, Microsoft OneDrive, Google Drive, and cloud solutions like OwnCloud and Synology CloudStation. Its Macro Recorder records your actions like a tape recorder for infinite playback.

These are some of the best text expansion tools that will save up to 30% of your time consumed in typing the commonly used phrases and words. Each of these has some unique features, and they charge a few dollars as well. Before subscribing to any plan, ensure that you try the free trials first.

Source:-   Top 5 Text Expansion Tools for Windows Users

 

How to Fix 100% CPU Usage in Windows 10

It is horrifying to turn on a PC only to face severe slowdown and loud-running fans. On facing this, mostly everyone turns to press Ctrl + Shift + Escape, and comes across with another scary information that your CPU usage is at 100%! Well, worry no more. As one, this is a common problem that is not difficult to solve. And two, this article is all you need to fix 100% CPU usage Windows 10. 

Check Your Power Supply

A faulty power supply can lead to undervolting. Wherein, your CPU starts preserving power and functions only at a fraction of its full power. This results in manifesting 100% CPU usage on Windows 10.

This problem is quite easy to solve on a laptop. All you have to do is, unplug your laptop from the power cable, then navigate to the battery icon at the bottom right corner of your Windows 10 desktop. Clicking on the battery icon will direct you to the Battery Settings. In the list of options that appear, select Power & Sleep Settings, then Additional power settings followed by High Performance. This should bring your CPU usage back to normal. You can also check the CPU usage in the task manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc altogether. In case your desktop is facing the same problem, it might be more complicated to fix because this time, you will need to physically remove the PSU from your PC and test a different one.

Disable Superfetch (or Windows Search)

Superfetch is a constant background process that observes which apps you use the most and pre-fetches them for you so they load quicker. Generally, Superfetch doesn’t cause any problems with Windows, but sometimes it acts rude with older devices.

You can check if it’s Superfetch that is hogging your CPU by navigating to the Task Manager and clicking “More details” followed by “CPU.” In the screen that appears, check if Superfetch or any other service is using a lot of CPU. If you do find something like that,   right-click on it followed by “End Process.”

Reset Your Power Plan

Experimental tweaks in Windows’ power options can severely affect your PC performance with an overloaded CPU usage. To check if all the power options are set to where they should be, navigate to the Start search bar. Then type “power plan” and click on the option named “Choose a power plan.” On the page that appears, check if you are on “High performance” or “Power Saver.” If yes, then switch to “Balanced.”

Disable Third-Party Antivirus Software

Although it doesn’t hurt to add an extra layer of security with antivirus software. But Windows 10s on-board security software, Windows Defender is more than enough to keep your PC safe from virus attacks. Third-party antivirus software on Windows 10 will do nothing but put unnecessary strain on your CPU.

So, even if you are not sure about Windows Defender, consider disabling your third-party antivirus software just to check if it helps your CPU usage or not. If it does, then you know that it is this added antivirus software that is causing troubles. Then you might as well want to uninstall it, considering Windows Defender has got you covered.

Hope this article proved to be helpful.

Source:-  How to Fix 100% CPU Usage in Windows 10

 

Bluetooth Connected But No Sound? Here are the Fixes

Bluetooth is one of the most popular services that allow you to connect to any device without cords. You can easily share your data such as songs, videos, images, files, and much more. Have you experienced hearing no sound on your computer even though Bluetooth connection is set up? If yes, then do not worry. Check out the solutions mentioned below.

Update the Bluetooth Device Driver

You should pursue these directions provided below:

1. Firstly, you need to write down the serial number of the speaker.
2. Then check whether you have 64 or 32-bit Windows by going to the Search section, inserting ‘system’ into it, and selecting the OK button.
3. Later launch the site of the speaker manufacturer and move to the section of driver download on the website.
4. After that, select the wireless speaker information.
5. Thereafter, download the latest driver for the speakers that are compatible with the device.
6. Once you download the driver, you should run the installer.

Checking that the Bluetooth Support Service is Turned On

You should pursue these directions provided below:

1. Hold the Windows and R buttons simultaneously to launch the Run section.
2. Then insert ‘services.msc’ in it and select the OK button.
3. Go to the ‘Bluetooth Support Service’ and click on it.
4. Choose the Automatic option from the drop-down of Startup type in case it is turned off.
5. Hit the button of Start to enable the Bluetooth Support Service.
6. Now, click on the Apply and OK buttons to verify the newly chosen settings.

Choose the Bluetooth Device as the Default Playback Device

You should pursue these directions provided below:

1. Go to the icon of the system tray and right-click on it.
2. Then choose the ‘Playback devices’ option.
3. Then choose the connected Bluetooth speakers listed on the section of Playback.
4. Hit the button of Set Default to choose the Bluetooth speakers as the standard playback device.
5. Now, select the Apply and OK button to apply the changes.

Launch the Bluetooth Troubleshooter

You should pursue these directions provided below:

1. Navigate to the Cortana section.
2. Then insert ‘troubleshoot’ into it and select the OK button to launch the Troubleshoot screen.
3. Choose the Bluetooth option and hit the button of ‘Run the troubleshooter’ to launch the screen.
4. The troubleshoot might then give possible solutions.

If you are unable to hear any sound from your Bluetooth speaker, then the above-mentioned solutions will help you out.

Source:-  How To Fix Bluetooth Connected But No Sound

 

Here’s How You Can Enable Dark Mode in Microsoft Office Suite Apps

The feature of Dark Mode has become so common these days, and it is available for a lot of applications. It is a great feature that helps to reduce eye strain and provides a more personalized look to the application. It is easy to work with this functionality on any application, and in fact, it provides you with the best experience. And now, coming to Microsoft Office, it is one of the biggest and the most popular software companies that have always satisfied its users by providing them with the best features within its every application. Dark Mode is also one such feature that the Microsoft users can enjoy in every Office app. Nowadays, we all spend a lot of our time sitting in front of our device screens, and that affects our well-being badly. So, we should enable this mode to make our work hours easier and stress-free.

Do you also want to enable the Dark mode feature in Microsoft Office Suite apps? Don’t know how to do so? Well, now, you are here, so you don’t need to worry. The following report will let you know how to do so. In the article, we have provided the procedure that you will need to follow to enable the Dark Mode in Microsoft Office Suite apps. So, go through the complete article and help yourself in proceeding with the task.

The Methods to Enable Dark Mode in Microsoft Office Suite Apps

Sometimes, it becomes difficult to work on the bright screen of our devices and especially at night. Not only this, but it also affects the battery life of our gadgets. Well, to deal with this problem, the feature of Dark Mode is available for almost all the applications. Enabling the Dark Mode feature in Microsoft Office Suite apps is an easy task that can be easily accomplished by any of the users. You can set a dark theme for any of the Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Powerpoint. This follows a procedure that includes some simple steps. To proceed with the task, you will need to follow the below-mentioned steps. The process will just take a few minutes to complete the task. So, now, let’s move towards the steps to enable the Dark Mode in Microsoft Office Suite apps. Here it is:

Method 1: Enabling the Dark Mode in Microsoft Apps Using the Account Settings

You can use the Account Settings to enable the dark theme in any Microsoft apps. This is an easy way to do so. Follow these steps to proceed with this method.

• According to this technique, first of all, you will have to open any of the Microsoft Office applications on your computer system. You can do that by searching for the application in the Windows search feature.
• After opening the application, go to the “File” menu that you can see at the top left corner of your screen.
• Now, select the “Account” or “Office Account” option. And here, you will see an option to change the theme. Go to the “Theme” menu and click on the option of “Dark Grey”. You can also set the Black theme for the application.
• After following all of the above steps, the theme will be changed for all the Microsoft Office applications.
• And now, close the app and relaunch it. And that’s all. This way, you can enable the Dark theme for the Office apps.

Method 2: Setting the Dark Theme Using the Applications Options

Here is another straightforward technique that you can follow to enable the Dark Mode in the Microsoft Office apps. Here’s how it works:

• To proceed with this technique, firstly, open any of the Microsoft Office apps on your computer by going through the Windows search feature.
• And now, go to the “File” tab given at the top of your screen and then you need to click on the “Options” that you will see on the left side of your screen.
• After this, a new window with the “General” tab will open up on your screen. Click on the “General” tab to find the Office theme option.
• And then, click on the option of “Black” or “Dark Grey” to enable the theme.  
• Finally, save the changes by clicking on the “Ok” button.

So, this is how you can enable the dark mode in any of the Microsoft Office apps. Aren’t these the most convenient techniques? And it will even enhance your experience. So, go now and try out any of these procedures. And if you wish to read more articles to have more information, please check out our website.

Source:-    How to Enable Dark Mode in Microsoft Office Suite Apps

 

Top File Extensions That Can Be Potentially Dangerous for Windows

Every bit of data on the internet is saved in a file format with different extensions. But, before downloading any file from an email or the internet, you must stay cautious about some file extensions. In this article, we will mention some file extensions that can be dangerous for your system. Before getting into file extensions, make sure you have active anti-virus software on your PC to protect you from any virus and malware files.

Some file extensions carry a specific code, or they can execute an arbitrary command which can be damaging for your system. Some media file extensions like JPEG and MP3 are considered safe because they cannot carry codes. Still, there have been many cases where the images in the file contain some maliciously crafted image that can put your system’s data at risk.

Some potentially dangerous file extensions are:

.EXE

EXE is an executable file that can run a program and execute commands with a single click. Sometimes, they can self-execute few commands. Files with EXE extensions carry the most potential danger than any other file extensions.  These files can easily transmit any malware, viruses, and spyware. When you open any EXE file without proper scanning, it launches the malware into your system and corrupts it.

.BAT

BAT file is a batch file that contains a list of commands, and when you open it, that series of commands are launched in order. Batch files can be used to transmit binary executable codes into your system. MS-DOS used these files, and their nature of running the series of in-order commands makes it the perfect option for launching any virus or malware into your system.

.SCF

SCF stands for Shell Command File, and these types of files are shortcuts with the run command. These file’s extensions stay invisible even if you have set your extensions to appear. So you will have to stay more aware with a file that has double extensions. The feature that makes these files more dangerous is that once you open the folder containing the SCF file, it automatically triggers the command. The attacker can plant an SCF file containing a non-printable character on the website that you use the most and can easily access your downloaded data from those websites.

.COM

COM file is the original type of program used by MS-DOS. It is similar to the EXE file, and it can be saved in a binary format. Once you open the file that contains malware, it automatically executes the set of instructions intended to harm your system.

.CMD

CMD format was introduced with Windows NT, and it is similar to the BAT file. Despite having similarities with the BAT file, CMD files are run by CMD. These files can be used to write malware, and it can open specific programs on your computer repeatedly, which can make your system slow and vulnerable to crash. These files can also be used to delete specific data in a directory.

.MSI

MSI file is a Microsoft installer file, and it can contain installation information for other applications. These kinds of files are generally used for Windows update and installation of third party software.

.VB/.VBS

VB and VBS files are used for hiding viruses and malware. VBS stands for Virtual Basic Script, and they are written in VBScript scripting language. These files contain code that can be executed within Internet Explorer or Windows through a Windows-based script host.

.WS/.WSF

WSF stands for Windows Script files, and they contain executable scripts with Jscript and VBScript code. They can only run if Windows Scripting Host 2.0 is installed. These files are usually delivered as email attachments and can damage your system if you open it without checking the integrity of its source.

.SCR

SCR is a screensaver file that is used to show vector graphics, animations, slideshows, or videos. These files contain executable codes which makes it the perfect place for programmers to hide any malicious code.

.PIF

PIF files are program information files for MS-DOS programs. Windows treats PIF files the same as EXE files because they don’t contain any executable codes. These files contain information about how MS-DOS programs should run, and these files can be used to transmit harmful viruses and scripts.

.HTML

HTML language is used to create web pages, and this format is the perfect place to hide any Trojans and worms.

.ZIP

ZIP files can easily carry multiple files in a single folder. These files can be used to hide any viruses, and it can transmit it to your system when you unpack the contained files.

How can you avoid hidden malware in files?

In this digital age, your data is always vulnerable to spyware attacks and malware. Viruses can also be transmitted through email attachments and external devices. We receive millions of spam messages daily, and most of them are harmless, but sometimes we come across a malicious file which is designed in such a way that prompts you to open it. It can be in the form of a gift card or coupon codes. You can follow these simple steps to protect yourself from possible viruses or malware:

• Make sure you have updated anti-virus software which can detect any malicious files.
• Block commands of automatic execution of file launch or unapproved executables.

Make sure you check the integrity of the file’s source before opening it or running it on your system.

Source:-   File Extensions Dangerous for Windows

 

Windows Not Responding? Here’s Why

Windows is designed to provide a seamless experience to its users. Although, there are several times when we find that our Windows PC is hanging or freezing or just becoming unresponsive to any commands. Such situations can be quite frustrating, especially when you’re working on a deadline.

There are many problems that cause Windows to become unresponsive. If you see a blue screen or automatic shut-down, the chances are that there are issues with Windows system files. But if your screen is frozen as it is while you’re working, it is likely to be due to one or more of the following;

Incompatible Hardware

Windows uses a bunch of distinct hardware to complete its processes. The compatibility of hardware is the most significant factor to examine while facing hanging/freezing issues on Windows. Incompatible hardware can lead to a number of stability issues that can manifest in the form of crashing or hanging of the Windows OS.

Examine whether any newly connected hardware(both external or internal) is outdated. If found so, you should try replacing the part of hardware with the one that is compatible with your system.

Extensive RAM Usage

Even though Windows has a smart algorithm for RAM management, running too many power-hungry apps at the same time can cause a severe dent in performance. RAM is the memory secured for storing the data of all the running processes. You can refer to the Task Manager to have a look at the real-time RAM usage statistics by different running processes.

Right-click on the Start button and then select Task Manager from the list. You should try suspending the top 2 or 3 processes in the usage statistics. Tasks like running heavy-graphic games or rendering a high-quality video can often overburden the CPU.

Issues With the Drivers

Just like incompatible or outdated hardware, the drivers concerning the hardware can also cause stability issues if the drivers are incompatible. Drivers are software components that enable Windows to interface with the hardware correctly.

Microsoft provides all the necessary drivers to interact with the essential components like a keyboard, speaker, or mouse, by default. However, you may face problems when the installed drivers are either outdated or incompatible with the current Windows.

You can head over to the Device Manager by right-clicking on the Start button and selecting Device Manager from the list. You can right-click on any of the drivers in Device Manager to find the option for updating the drivers. However, manual installation of drivers from 3rd parties is not recommended.

Presence of Malware

Malware is the umbrella term for several types of threats to the system, namely viruses, Trojans, worms, spyware, etc. These contain a script of malicious codes that can harm the user-data, and reveal sensitive information. As these codes gain access to the precious resources of the computer, it can result in a slow-down of the system. It’s a good idea to use high-quality antivirus software in addition to the Windows Defender.

Corrupt Registry Files

Windows has a protected database in which it stores all the system registry files. These contain the logs of the activities done and changes made by the user like the installation of a new program, change in a particular setting etc. Problems can arise when these system files get corrupted or outdated. You shouldn’t rely on 3rd party registry cleaners that claim to boost your performance. There are chances of messing up the registry files, so it is better to leave them untouched if you’re not sure about what you’re doing. Sometimes a fresh Windows Install can override the obsolete registry files and solve the issue. Make sure you back up all the data before proceeding with the fresh installation of Windows.

Hope you’ve found out the cause behind your unresponsive Windows. A lagging/freezing or crashing issue is most likely to arise due to one or more of the reasons mentioned above. Make sure you do some research and follow the appropriate troubleshooting steps after identifying the cause of your issue.

Source:-  Windows Not Responding