Himem.sys and emm386 errors

Missing either himem.sys or emm386.exe

Verify that both himem.sys and emm386 are present on the computer by typing the below commands at the MS-DOS prompt.

cd\
cd windows
dir himem.sys
dir emm386.exe

If, when typing dir for either the himem.sys or the emm386.exe file, you receive a message file not found, first verify that the file was typed in properly. If it appears that you have typed in the command properly it is likely the file is missing. Either of these files can be copied from another computer or bootable floppy diskette.

Autoexec.bat or config.sys have conflicting data or programs causing this issue

Memory managers or other TSRs can have conflicting information and cause himem or emm386 errors. If you have Windows 9x or above, rename those files by typing the below commands.

cd\
ren autoexec.bat autoexec.ch
ren config.sys config.ch

Once the files have been renamed, reboot the computer to see if issue persists. If issue persists, skip to next section.

If you are running Windows 3.x or MS-DOS 6.x or below, boot the computer step-by-step to verify if a line in the autoexec.bat or config.sys is causing your issue. To do this, as the computer is booting press the F5 key when you see the message Starting MS-DOS. You should be prompted to say Yes or No to load each line. Load each line until you get the error.

Once the error is determined, edit the file with the line that caused your error and temporarily remark that line. Additional information about the autoexec.bat and the config.sys and how to remark the lines can be found on our autoexec.bat and config.sys page.

Himem.sys or emm386.exe are corrupt

The files may be corrupt and causing the memory managers to load improperly or not at all. Replace these files with a known good himem.sys and emm386 by copying the files from a bootable floppy diskette or copying from another computer. Ensure that before these files are copied over to the computer experiencing the issue that the himem.sys and the emm386 files are deleted first.

Memory in computer is bad or corrupt

If you have completed all of the above recommendations and continue to experience the same issues, you may be experiencing a memory issue. To determine this, boot from a known good bootable diskette that loads the himem.sys and the emm386.exe files.

If, when booting from this floppy diskette, you experience the same errors, it is likely you have a hardware issue, either with your computer memory or your motherboard. In this case we recommend that the memory be replaced or that the computer be taken to a local repair store for examination.

If, however, you are able to successfully boot from a bootable diskette it is likely there may be another software or hardware related issue. We recommend that you erase all information on the hard drive and restore the operating system.

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Determining how much RAM is installed and available

To check how much RAM is available on your computer follow the steps below.

Tip: Memory (RAM) and hard drive space are two completely different things. If you want to know how much information you can store on your computer see the how to determine how much hard drive space page.

Tip: See our determining the type of memory my computer has page if you're trying to find memory specifications for upgrading your computer memory.

Windows 8 users

1. From the Desktop right-click on My Computer
2. Clip Properties. In the System Properties Window the system will list "Installed memory (RAM)" with the total amount detected. For example, in the picture below there is 8 GB of memory installed in the computer.

View used resources

To determine the amount of available system resources, including memory, as well as what is currently being utilized open the Task Manager. In the Processes tab you can see what programs are using what resources. In the Performance tab you can see an overall picture of all the system resources.

Windows Vista and 7 users

1. From the Desktop right-click on My Computer
2. Clip Properties. In the System Properties Window the system will list "Installed memory (RAM)" with the total amount detected. For example, in the picture below there is 6 GB of memory installed in the computer.

or

1. Click Start
2. In the Search box type "ram" without quotes and click the Show how much RAM is on this computer.

or

1. Click Start
2. Click System and Security
3. Under System, click View amount of RAM and processor speed.

View used resources

To determine the amount of available system resources, including memory, as well as what is currently being utilized open the Task Manager. In the Processes tab you can see what programs are using what resources. In the Performance tab you can see an overall picture of all the system resources.

Windows 95, 98, ME, NT4, 2000, and XP users

1. Click Start
2. Click Settings
3. Click Control Panel and double-click the Systems icon.
4. In the General tab will be listed the amount of RAM currently installed and detected.

or

Windows 98, ME, 2000, and XP users can also run the System Information (msinfo32) program that comes pre-installed on the computer. Additional information about this program can be found on our msinfo32 definition page.

View used resources

To determine the amount of available system resources, including memory, as well as what is currently being utilized open the Task Manager. In the Processes tab you can see what programs are using what resources. In the Performance tab you can see an overall picture of all the system resources.

Windows 3.x users

Click File and then Exit Windows. At the MS-DOS prompt type mem and press enter.

• See our mem command page for full information on this command.

MS-DOS users

At the MS-DOS prompt type mem and press enter.

Note: MS-DOS 6.2 will not accept or recognize more than 64 megs of RAM when typing mem.

Apple computer users

Click "About this Mac" in the Apple menu on Mac OS X to determine how much RAM is installed on an Apple Mac computer. The picture shows an example of the Apple Menu. As can be seen in the picture, the About This Mac is the first option.

Linux and Unix users

Linux and Unix command line users can use top command, which displays the total memory detected by the computer, how much memory is used, and how much is free.

Using the free command also gives you an overview of memory as well as how much of the memory is being stored in the buffers.

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My laptop mouse touchpad is not working

When the touchpad stops working, there are a few things you can do to try and fix it or work around the issue.

Tip: Since some of the settings do require you to navigate the computer using a mouse cursor, for troubleshooting purposes, you can use the Trackpoint on the laptop or connect a PS/2 or USB external mouse to the laptop as a temporary fix. If you cannot get an external mouse to work, see our navigating Windows with the keyboard page for tips on how to use the keyboard to navigate in Windows.

Other USB device

Some USB and PS/2 devices, especially any USB input device (including a computer mouse), can disable the touchpad. As a troubleshooting step, turn off the computer, disconnect all USB devices, then start the computer again to make sure an external device is disabling the touchpad. If this fixes your problem, but the touchpad is disabled again the next time you connect the device, check your touchpad software settings for a setting that can prevent this from happening.

Check mouse settings

First, in the Windows Control Panel, access the mouse settings and verify the touchpad is enabled. Also, you can adjust the sensitivity of the touchpad to work best for your fingers. Check these settings to make sure something was not disabled or adjusted to cause the touchpad to not work.

Check Device Manager

Second, open the Device Manager and check through the device list to find the touchpad. Check to see that it is enabled. If disabled, re-enable it and test the touchpad. If it is already enabled, change it to disabled, then re-enable it again. Sometimes toggling this setting can kick-start the touchpad into working again.

If there are any yellow exclamation marks, red X's or "Other devices" in Device Manager, any of these errors can indicate there is a problem with hardware in your computer that may be causing the touchpad problems.

Check CMOS (BIOS) setup

Make sure the touchpad has not been disabled in the CMOS (BIOS) setup. In the setup, check the hardware device settings and see if the touchpad is enabled or disabled. If disabled, re-enable it, restart the laptop, and test the touchpad.

Software driver issues

If the above options do not fix the problem, the software driver for the touchpad may be corrupted or not updated enough to work correctly. Visit the laptop manufacturer's website and download the most current touchpad driver for your specific laptop model. Install the driver, restart the laptop, and test the touchpad to see if it works.

Hardware defect

Lastly, if the touchpad still is not working correctly or at all, you may need to take it to a computer repair shop and have it fixed. It could require replacement of the touchpad itself or another component in the laptop. If you cannot repair the touchpad, connect and use an external mouse as a workaround.

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How can I keep my laptop cool?

Keeping your laptop cool is essential to preventing it from overheating. Excess heat build-up in a laptop can result in the laptop overheating, which could cause damage to the internal components. When a laptop overheats, most often it will shut down automatically in an attempt to prevent any damage.

Preventing heat build-up is important and should be considered when purchasing and using a laptop. To help reduce heat build-up and keep the laptop cool, you can use a cooling pad.

Cooling pads come in multiple varieties. Some are basic pads, which allow for better airflow on the underside of the laptop, where heat build-up is more common to occur. Other cooling pads have fans built-in to help pull heat away from the laptop, thus improving airflow and keeping the laptop cool.

You can purchase cooling pads from most computer retailers and online. Prices range from $15 to $75, or more for the really nice ones. However, cooling pads in the $35 to $50 are typically adequate for most everyday laptop cooling needs. We recommended a cooler pad with a built-in fan since it will offer a much better cooling solution. Most, if not all, of those cooling pads plug into the laptop for power, using a USB connector. They are light-weight, and most are pretty quiet when running.

Short of buying a cooling pad, another way to keep your laptop cool is to place the laptop on a table or flat, hard surface when using it. This allows the bottom of the laptop to be elevated above the surface it is sitting on, which keeps air flowing underneath and around it. Also, make sure there are no objects sitting close to either side of the laptop. Many laptops push warm air out the sides of the laptop, and if the sides are partially or completely blocked by an external object it will prevent heat from escaping. The heat could build up and cause the laptop to overheat.

Also, try to use the laptop in an environment that is not too hot or humid, as this can cause excess heat to build up in the laptop.

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Desktop computer vs. Laptop computer

When deciding between purchasing a desktop computer or a laptop computer, you'll need to consider a handful of criteria and make a determination that fits your needs the best. Below is a chart that compares the two types of computers, providing pros and cons for each to help you make a more informed purchasing decision.

Topic	Desktop	Laptop
Cost	There is a wide variety of component options available for desktops, allowing for a large range of prices, but the starting point is relatively cheap. Desktops can start as low as $400 for a full package (computer & monitor) and still be a pretty powerful system	Laptops can have a fairly wide variety of component options but are more limited than desktops. To get a more powerful laptop (higher speed, better graphics, more storage space, etc.), the price can be considerably higher, getting up to $1500 or more, depending on the brand.
Portability	Desktops are large in size and have a separate monitor. While it's possible to take a desktop from place to place, it's cumbersome and not the choice for portability. They are designed to be used in a single location and not moved around much, if at all.	Laptops are very portable due to their compact size. They were designed to be taken from place to place, carried in a backpack or laptop carrying case. They are great for on-the-go use.
Processor	Desktop processors are a little bit larger in size, but this also allows for more powerful processors to be used in a desktop. Advanced processors on the market are typically available in desktop computers first.	Laptop processors have nearly caught up to desktop processors, but are still limited when compared to desktop processors. Gaming laptops can have an equal performance, but have a much higher price.
Ease of use	Setting up a desktop takes some extra work to hook everything up and get it up and running. It also requires more space to set up. While it's not difficult to connect everything together, it is still more cumbersome than a laptop.	Laptops are built to be easy to use, requiring little time to get running. Take it out of the box, plug it in and press the power button. Within minutes, the laptop is ready to use.
Keyboard	Desktops can make use of full size keyboards, including a number pad. There are really no limitations.	Smaller laptops with the 14" and 15" screens typically have smaller keyboards and don't feature a number pad on the right side. Larger laptops with 17" screens do have larger keyboards, featuring a number pad, but the laptops are bulkier and heavier.
Screen size	Desktop monitors range from 15" on up. It is even possible to hook up a desktop to a TV, so screen sizes could be as large as a TV. This provides for great flexibility on what the desktop is used for and in what environment.	Since portability is a big feature of laptops, smaller screen sizes are necessary and screen sizes typically range from 10" to 17". However, a laptop can still be connected to an external display and support any size of monitor, screen, or projector.
Upgrading	Most components in a desktop are easily removable, making it easier to upgrade and since desktop cases are usually much bigger they're easier to work in when doing any upgrading.	Memory and hard drive are about the only components that can be upgraded in a laptop. The remaining components are all built-in and not removable. A need to upgrade anything else requires a new laptop.
Gaming	Desktops are capable of using high-powered video cards that have higher power requirements and require better heat reduction/dissipation. Due to the space in a desktop and the capability of using 1000+ Watt power supplies, virtually any video card could be used in a desktop, including two or more video cards at the same time.	Space is limited in a laptop, which limits the graphics capabilities. While some of the higher end laptops can provide some pretty nice graphics for gaming and CAD-based applications, the heat reduction/dissipation is limited because there just is no space available to use a larger heat sink and fan. Power is also limited which doesn't allow for video cards needing those higher amounts of wattage to run.
Repair	Repairing a desktop computer is much easier since most of the hardware can be easily purchased off the shelf of any local computer retail store.	For most users opening a laptop to repair a part can be difficult and finding a replacement part often requires calling the computer manufacturer or ordering from another online site.

In the end, the final decision depends on what your needs are. While the above chart may make it look as though Desktop computers are the best overall option, if portability is a big need of yours, the laptop is the best option. There are some limitations to consider, but they are not overly significant for most users.

However, if you want the most bang for your buck and portability is not necessary, a desktop is likely the best choice especially if price is important. Desktops are optimal choices for graphic intensive gaming, use of CAD applications, and for those who prefer to have the option of upgrading more easily. However, they are also perfectly fine for the basic computer user who just needs e-mail and Internet access.

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Laptop AC adapter doesn't work

If you are experiencing a problem where you laptop's AC adapter not work or is not working correctly there are several things you can check before looking to buy a new adapter.

Verify adapter plugged into a wall outlet

Make sure the AC adapter is firmly and securely plugged into the wall outlet. This may sound obvious, but many times the adapter can become loose without even knowing. If it's not plugged in all the way, it can make it seem like the adapter is not working, but it may just not be getting power from the wall outlet. When in doubt a good way to make sure it is plugged in properly is to disconnect and then reconnect the connection.

Check adapter indicator light

Many laptop AC adapters have a power indicator light on the adapter brick. Check for this indicator light and if there is one, make sure it is light up with a green light. This means the adapter is at least receiving power.

Check the wall outlet itself

Some wall outlets require a light switch to be in the on position in order for the outlet to be active. Many newer houses, apartments, and condos feature this type of wall outlet. If the light switch is on, verify the wall outlet is working in general. Use a volt meter to measure the power output and verify the outlet is functioning properly. Alternatively you can also try another wall outlet. Also, double check the circuit breaker and make sure nothing is tripped or turned off.

Check adapter brick connection

Most laptop AC adapters come in two pieces. Make sure both of those pieces are connected firmly and securely. The two pieces connect at the rectangular box piece, often called the brick. This connection can become loose or disconnected relatively easily, so want to make sure the connection is good.

Adapter plugged into laptop

This may seem obvious as well, but the adapter can become disconnected from the laptop pretty easily. The metal tip on the adapter cord needs to be firmly attached to the laptop in order for the laptop to receive power from the adapter. Also, in either the metal tip on the adapter or the connection on the laptop, there is often a small metal pin. Make sure this pin is not bent or broken as that can cause a problem with the laptop receiving power from the adapter.

Laptop power connection port

This is a bit more difficult to check or diagnose. The power connector is connected directly to the laptop's motherboard, usually through one or more solder points. If a solder point is damaged or has broken away from the motherboard, this will prevent the laptop from getting power from the AC adapter. Fixing this requires very precise work with either soldering the power connector back onto the motherboard or replacing the power connector itself, if it is defective. In some cases, this kind of problem is not repairable and will require a replacement of the motherboard or power board.

If you think this may be your problem, it is something that's best left to the expert technicians who may need to take apart the laptop to get the motherboard or power board and diagnose the problem.

Replacement

If you have determined the AC adapter is not working properly and needs to be replaced, you can get a replacement from the laptop manufacturer who sells an exact replacement or compatible universal AC adapter.

You can also opt to purchase a universal AC adapter from a local or online electronics retailer. One brand to look for is Targus, which is a quality brand and a popular choice. Targus makes several universal AC adapters which work for many laptop brands and models. Make sure you purchase one that matches the specs of your existing AC adapter, including the voltage and amperage. Also, check the packaging to make sure it will work for your laptop brand and model.

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