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Wednesday, 16 April 2025 14:34

My Lenovo ThinkPad Laptop Notes

these are my notes

Windows Power Configuration Commands

This is a collection of Windows power commands to help diagnose and change power and sleep settings.

  • Reports the sleep states available on the system.
    powercfg /a
    • Your firmware might not support the S3 mode. Support for the various sleep modes will be shown when you run the command above.
  • Reports information about what woke the system from the last sleep transition.
    powercfg /lastwake
  • List devices that are currently configured to wake the system from any sleep state.
    powercfg /DEVICEQUERY wake_armed
  • ......

Lenovo keeps waking up from sleep

The solution might be one or a combination of the following solutions, but I have put them in the order I think you should try them in.

  • Potential Solutions
    • Disable "wake up computer" on devices
    • Disable S0 Modern Standby
    • Disable always on USB power in the BIOS.
    • ?? is it becasue I am sing a keybaord and mouse on a powered hub? where as on my dell I was not they were directly into the docking station.
    • My USB keyboard and mouse are on my power USB hub, this allows power to be supplied to these devices even when USB always on is disabled. It might mean the USB bus is still accepting data packets.
    • Disable Windows Fastboot  ???
    • Hibernate your system rather than sleep

NB: The laptops trackpad, nipple/Pointers and keyboard will not wake the system up.

 

 

 

 

Links

  • What is USB Selective Suspend Setting? Should You Turn It On or Off - Tech News Today
    • You might have come across the USB Selective Suspend setting while looking through the advanced power plan settings. In this article, we have explained this feature in detail to help you decide if you should turn it on or off by yourself.
    • This is in the Windows power plan. You should just leave this alone.
    • This feature just allow Windows to turn of individual devices on a USB hub rather than the whole hub.

 

 

Disable S0 Modern Standby / Change from S0 to S3 sleep mode

Options

  • Change sleep state in the BIOS
    • Not all laptops will have this option.
    • Check your BIOS as some have an option to switch between S0 and S3
    • In My Lenovo you can change the sleep state in the BIOS
      • They have called them different names with a warning to try and encourage you to use S0.
      • You should just ignore the warning set as required. However (once), I did have S3 enabled and Windows 11 would not wake up, would not even respond to my keyboard or power button.
      • The settings are as follows:
        • "Windows and Linux" = S0
        • "Linux Only" = S3
  • Disable S0 Modern Standby via Windows
    • If you have the ability to change the sleep state in the BIOS (as shown above) then this hack is not going to change anything.
    • If you PC/laptop presents both S0 and S3 methods at the same time,  Window will always pick S0 and so to prevent and use S3 we can use a registry hack to override this behaviour.

Notes

  • Changing from S0 to S3 only changes what is shut down for the sleep.
  • S0 allows a lot of background tasks to run, I assume they have a specific flag to allow this and that the OS controls this.
  • In S3 everything is shutdown except for RAM maintenance and wake up calls (i think). S3 will get better power savings and less risk of data corruptions.
  • standby - What is the difference between (these four) sleep states? - Super User
    • S0 - On / Working
      • The computer is powered up. If supported, power conservation is handled by each device.
    • S1 - Sleep
      • CPU is stopped. RAM maintains power. Everything else is off, or in low power mode.
    • S2 - Sleep
      • CPU has no power. RAM maintains power. Everything else is off, or in low power mode.
    • S3 - Standby
      • CPU has no power. RAM maintains power, refreshes slowly. Power supply reduces power. This level might be referred to as “Save to RAM.” Windows enters this level when in standby.
    • S4 - Hibernate
      • Power to most hardware is shut off. Any files in memory are saved to the hard disk in a temporary file. If configured, the NIC will remain on for WOL or AoL. This level is also known as “Save to disk.”
    • S5 - Off
      • Everything is off. No files are saved. If configured, the NIC will maintain power to listen for WOL (magic) packets. This is known as a shutdown.
  • System Sleep States: S0, S1, S2, S3, S4 & S5 | CrazyEngineers - Fellow engineers, in this article I am going to discuss the system sleep states: S0, S1, S2, S3, S4 and S5 in detail.
  • Modern Standby vs S3 | Microsoft Learn
    • Outlines the primary differences between S3 and Modern Standby system power models.
    • On any Modern Standby system, the system remains in S0 while in standby, allowing the following scenarios to work: Background activity, Faster resume from a low power state.
    • Modern Standby comprises Screen Off and Sleep states, where the Screen Off state encompasses active behaviours to quiesce the system to sleep, and the Sleep state is equivalent to S3 sleep with the added benefit that explicitly-allowed, value-adding software activity can run.

 

Disable USB always on

  • Yoga 310 - how to turn off Always-on USB ? | English Community-Lenovo Community
    • Old Codger
      • I know of only 3 factors that may affect whether the USB is powered or not:
        1. Always-on option in the BIOS
        2. Always-on option from within the Lenovo Vantage app
        3. Whether attached to mains or running on battery
      • I have tested all combinations of the above, and there is no change - this appears to be almost 'hard wired' into the hardware.
      • I have also disabled fast start-up and wake-on-LAN, as someone indicated that these would allow some parts of the machine to be 'active', consuming power and cause USB's to be on as well.
    • Old Codger
      • After spending months trying to find the problem (including 4 hours re-searching and re-booting today) I have managed to find a solution that works for me - this involves making sure that anything within the PC that might require the USB port(s) or other sections of hardware to be powered up when the machine is shut down is disabled. So far as I know, this covers: 
        1. Disabling Always-on USB in the BIOS (if applicable on your machine)
        2. Disabling Always-On USB in Lenovo Vantage
        3. Disabling 'Fast start-up' in the power options
        4. Disable 'Wake On LAN' in the settings for the Ethernet Card
          • NOTE: the Wake On LAN change may not be required, I figured I'd post the solution before wasting anyone else's time !.  
        5. Disable 'Boot from USB' in the BIOS
          • It is this one that finally did the trick for me. Why the USB has to be powered to allow booting from USB is a mystery ..... 
      • Also, please note: This works only if the machine is 'shut down', not in the sleep modes. It may also be necessary to change the 'what the power button does' and 'what closing the lid does'  options in Windows  to make sure that they are acting appropriately. If they send the machine to sleep, then the USB may still remain on. 

Overview

Below are the actions I did to prevent my system waking up on it sown, but it was being caused for me by the Mouse.

 

 

 

 

 

Published in Laptops
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Sunday, 13 April 2025 13:29

Restore Windows 10 GUI functionality

Open-Shell + RetroBar (with Dark themes from Tek Syndicate) + EarTrumpet + Winaero (context menu and Ribbon fixes) + WindHawk (Taskbar tray system icon tweaks - to hode unwanted system icons)

--------------

I finally upgraded to Windows 11 and discovered a lot of functionality had been removed and Microsoft was making restoring it difficult. In Windows 11 24H2 it is even worse.

I will be outlining my solutions I have found on the internet to restore my desktop to how it was. I will be using 3rd party tools as I did on Windows 10. Not all changes might be required or wanted by you so just do the ones you need.

As I find more solutions I will add them here.

Start Menu

Taskbar Replacement

This is optional at the minute as I have not test it, however the Quick Launch step would not be needed if this works.

  • Install GitHub - dremin/RetroBar (use the installer, not the portable version)
    • Set the quick launch folder to: %SystemDrive%\Users\%username%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch

Quick Launch

You can employ more than one of the solutions below to get the work enviroment you need.

The Quick Launch folder

This is just for reference.

%SystemDrive%\Users\%username%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch

Methods / Workarounds

  • Pinning Applications to the Taskbar
  • Creating Folders for Quick Access
  • Using the Start Menu for Quick Access
    • Open-Shell --> Settings --> Customize Start Menu
    • From thw `Available Commands`, add a `Custom` item at the top of the menu below the `COLUMN PADDING` item with the following values:
      • Link: %SystemDrive%\Users\%username%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch
      • Label: Quick Launch
      • Icon: shell32.dll, 290 (or whatever icon you wnat)
  • ExplorerPatcher - Add a real Quick Launch
    • settings to be added when I have used this, i am waiting for a stable version to be released for Windows 24H2
    • 1-Click Quick Launch Toolbar #3774
      • Right-Click Taskbar--> Toolbars --> New Toolbar 
        %SystemDrive%\Users\%username%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch
      • Right-Click Taskbar
        • Lock all toolbars
        • Show Text
        • Show title
      • Drag to left
      • Drag divider
    • The latest pre-release (22621.3880.66.7) works fine for me on 24H2. You just need to choose "Windows 10 (ExplorerPatcher)" instead of "Windows 10" as the taskbar style.
    • To move a toolbar to the area between the Start button and the Pinned area, you have to "snap" it there, i.e., drag it with your mouse by moving your mouse much faster than normal. (Snap is a UI feature that was introduced by Microsoft with the release of Windows 7.)
    • How to Add Quick Launch Toolbar to Taskbar in Windows 11 | The Geek Page - In this article, we have discussed in the detail the steps to add a quick launch custom toolbar to the taskbar by installing ExplorerPatcher in Windows 11.
  • Old Method (Pre Windows 11 24H2)
    • Turn off unwanted icons in the taskbar
    • Right click on taskbar: Toolbars --> New toolbar
    • Paste this into the address bar: %SystemDrive%\Users\%username%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch
    • Select folder
    • Hide title + Hide text
    • Drag into the correct place.

Links

System Tray

Links

Taskbar ????

Links

  • Fully Customize Your Windows 11 Taskbar - Complete Guide | GeekFlare
    • If you are having trouble customizing the new Windows 11 taskbar, then we’ve got you covered. We will show you how to adjust the Window 11 taskbar to your liking and also share some hacks to access features that are no longer officially available in Windows 11.
    • Great article
    • Pin to Taskbar
    • Make the taskbar bigger/smaller via the registry

File Explorer

  • Restore the ribbon in File Explorer
    • Use Winaero
  • Restore straight edge Windows
  • Get rid of the weird 3D font on icons

Context Menu  (might move this above and rename to explorer again)

  • Restore full right click menu (context menu)
    • Winaero --> Windows 11 --> Classic Full Context Menus --> Enable classic full context menus: ticked

Links

Notepad

  • Each file I open gets its own instance
    • Settings --> Opening Notepad --> Opening files: Open in a new window
  • When I close a file, I want to be prompted to save rather than silently storing the session
    • Settings --> Opening Notepad --> When Notepad starts: Start new session and discard unsaved changed
      • This setting's options are not the best description of their function.

Other Useful Settings (Non-Win 10 --> Win 11)

  • Personalisation --> Taskbar --> Combine taskbar buttons and hide labels: Never
  • Personalisation --> Taskbar --> Combine taskbar buttons and hide labels on other taskbars: Never
  • Make Taskbar icons smaller
    • There is no longer an inbuilt option for this.
  • Enable long file paths
  • Missing ‘Open with’ option in right-click context menu on Windows 11 / 10 | The Geek Page
    • NB: for me it only seems to be on zip files on the desktop
    • The right-click context menu in the File Explorer contains the ‘Open with’ which optimizes the right-click context menu in Windows 11. But, some users are complaining about a peculiar bug where the entire ‘Open with’ section is missing from the right-click context menu. If you are also witnessing this bug, you can easily solve the issue with a registry tweak.
  • Enable S3 Sleep.... see other notes
  • Make sure system restore is on. It might not be on by default.

Software

  • Start Menus
    • Open-Shell | Classic Shell Reborn
      • A collection of utilities bringing back classic features to Windows.
    • StartIsBack
      • Returns Windows 10 and Windows 8 a real fully featured start menu and start button, behaving exactly like the ones in Windows 7. It's totally awesome and easy solution for your new Windows woes.
      • Paid for but cheap.
    • StartAllBack
      • Restores taskbar, start menu, context menus, explorer, sanity, style and order!
      • Windows 11 only
      • Paid for, but cheap.
  • Tweakers
    • GitHub - valinet/ExplorerPatcher
      • This project aims to enhance the working environment on Windows.
      • With changes to Windows 11 24H2 it is important that you do not install it on a work or mission critical machine as the new framework has bugs. This will change in time.
      • This program currently gets flagged as being a virus because Microsoft does not want you to use it. it is important that you setup the antivirus exceptions as noted here
      • You must uninstall ExplorerPatcher when upgrading windows to prevent issues and file corruption. You settings will be maintained. The same applies when downgrading.
      • Open up EP Properties application, go to taskbar, and set taskbar style to Windows 10 (ExplorerPatcher), not Windows 10. We no longer offer more support on the stock Windows 10 taskbar.
      • Support for Windows 11 24H2 · Issue #3398 · valinet/ExplorerPatcher · GitHub
        • The following methods work for uninstalling it:
          • Run ep_setup.exe /uninstall.
          • Rename ep_setup.exe to ep_uninstall.exe and execute that.
          • also, try to delete dxgi.dll in C:\Windows after you uninstall EP and reboot.
      • Quick Launch with 24H2? | Page 2 | Windows 11 Forum
        • There's just one registry setting that I use to eliminate the potential risk of an endless loop in which the explorer process keeps crashing and automatically being restarted (and that could potentially happen regardless of whether you have installed EP). This will prevent the explorer process from automatically being restarted after it crashes: 
           reg add "HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon" /v AutoRestartShell /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f
      • How to Restore Classic Start Menu in Windows 11 with Classic Taskbar - If you have just updated Windows 10 to Windows 11 and are not impressed by all the new changes to the taskbar, here is how to restore the old classic Start menu in Windows 11.
      • How to Use Explorer Patcher to Bring Back Many Windows 10 Styles on Windows 11 - While Windows 11 introduces a fresh design, some users prefer the familiarity of the Windows 10 interface. If you're one of them, Explorer Patcher is a lightweight tool developed by Valentin-Gabriel Radu that lets you restore many Windows 10 styles without downgrading your operating system. This software is safe, straightforward to use, and immediately transforms your Taskbar to the Windows 10 style upon installation.
      Winaero
      • A free app for all versions of Windows that lets you adjust (i.e. tweak) hidden secret settings that Microsoft does not let you adjust from the user interface. In addition, it allows you to add extra value to existing Windows apps and tools with advanced context menus, options, and handy commands.
    • Windhawk
    • 7+ Taskbar Tweaker
      • Customize the Windows taskbar with dozens of exclusive options. Adapt the taskbar to your workflow, not the other way around.
  • Taskbar Replacements
    • GitHub - dremin/RetroBar
      • Classic Windows 95, 98, Me, 2000, XP, Vista taskbar for modern versions of Windows
      • RetroBar: Retro Taskbar Replacemet Tutorial (Windows 7-11) - YouTube | Tek Syndicate
        • Excellent video, watch all of it for some inspiration and solutions
        • RetroBar is a Windows taskbar replacement that works on Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, and Windows 11. It works like the old taskbars on Vista (it was optional on 7) going all the way back to Windows 98 (or maybe 95).
        • The key difference here is the placement of the QuickLaunch area. It's on the left, then the tabs are on the taskbar to the right. See the video for a full demonstration.
        • I didn't realize how much I missed this layout. I currently use RetroBar on Windows and I use Plasma 6 on Fedora with a layout that is basically the same. It's awesome. Let me know what you think.
        • This guy made a load of dark themes
        • Uses EarTrumpet to give a better audio flyout.
        • This does not replace the start menu and works with Open-Shell
        • If you like Launchy, you should install microsoft PowerToys
      • Themes
  • Quick Launch
    • True Launch Bar
      • True Launch Bar is the superior replacement for standard Quick Launch
      • On Windows prior to 24H2 Windows 11 their was Taskbar integration but now only the floating dock works.
      • Installer and portable version are available.
      • It has a plugin feature with many available.
      • There is a `Standard Quick Launch Mode` which uses the `Quick Launch` folder for its root and straight out of the box they look like the classic quick launch icons but with the extra features you get with pinned icons.
      • You can enjoy all the advantages of True Launch Bar not only on the taskbar, but also as a side panel. The side panel can be snapped to any edge of the screen on any monitor.
      • The floating docking (or side panel)can be put on any monitor at the specified edge (Top, Bottom, Right, Left) except if the taskbar is present it will sit on top of it.
    • GitHub - brondavies/TrayToolbar
      • Provides a replacement for the custom toolbar functionality that was removed in Windows 11 by creating a System Tray item which then pops up a single column vertical menu when clicked.
      • Currently the options are basic but it is responsive.
      • You cannot re-order the icons.
    • GitHub - Hofknecht/SystemTrayMenu
      • Browse and open your files easily
      • A completely free flowing dock that ruins as a normal windows application.
      • The dock is a vertical list (icons and text) of the folder you have selected and I don't think this can be changed to icons only in a vertical mode.
      • You can pick a hot key to open and close the program.
      • It is portable and is available in the Microsoft store.
    • GitHub - Bastians-Bits/TrayTool
      • This programme makes it possible to create shortcuts within the System Tray (the little icon area in the bottom right).
      • This is old and not developed currently.
    • GitHub - rojarsmith/TrayToolbar
      • Provide the replacement of add new toolbar function that was cancelled in windows 11
      • Provides a replacement for the custom toolbar functionality that was removed in Windows 11 by creating a System Tray item which then pops up a single column vertical menu when clicked.
      • Currently the options are basic but it is responsive.
      • You cannot re-order the icons.
      • Will not parse system variables in the folder path.
  • Floating Docks
    • RocketDock
      • RocketDock is our classic app launcher loved by millions of people for almost 20 years. It lets you zoom through your shortcuts like a rocket with its buttery smooth interface. You can drag your favourite apps, files, and folders onto the dock to have quick access to them, then personalize with different skins, icons, and effects to match your desktop.
      • Puts icons at the top of your screen like MACs.
    • XWindows Dock - Wikipedia
      • XWindows Dock was a clone of the dock in Mac OS X Leopard for Windows. It is freely available under Creative Commons license.
      • Not developed since 2011
    • Stardock
      • Stardock is a cutting-edge innovator specializing in desktop utility software and PC entertainment.
    • Stardock Start11
      • The ultimate Start menu replacement for Windows 10 and 11. Restore the classic look and add new functionality.
      • Paid for, but cheap.
  • Launchers
    • GitHub - Wox-launcher/Wox A cross-platform launcher that simply works. It's an alternative to Alfred and Launchy
    • Alfred - Productivity App for macOS
      • MacOS only
      • Alfred is a productivity application for macOS, which boosts your efficiency with hotkeys, keywords and text expansion. Search your Mac and the web, and control your Mac using custom actions with the Powerpack.
    • Launchy: The Open Source Keystroke Launcher
      • A free cross-platform utility designed to help you forget about your start menu, the icons on your desktop, and even your file manager.
      • Launchy indexes the programs in your start menu and can launch your documents, project files, folders, and bookmarks with just a few keystrokes!
      • Not actively developed.
  • System Tray
    • GitHub - Aemony/NotifyIconPromote
      • Notification Icon Promoter for Windows 11.
      • This is a background application that auto-promotes all newly registered and unconfigured notification icons to be visible by default in the Windows 11 notification area.
      • This somewhat emulates the behavior of Always show all icons and notifications on the taskbar from prior Windows versions, but also allows for individual apps to be toggled if so desired.
    • GitHub - File-New-Project/EarTrumpet
  • Shell Replacement
    • Cairo Desktop Environment - Enjoy a brand new Windows desktop experience with Cairo. With a dynamic desktop, folder stacks, and new ways to interact with your apps, Cairo is fast, productive, and easy to use.

 

Published in Windows 11
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Wednesday, 02 April 2025 09:21

Lenovo Desktop, Laptop and Charger model numbers explained

ThinkPad

Lenovo ThinkPad series laptops are categorised by their target audience and features, with the E series being entry-level, the L series a step up, and the T series the flagship for professionals, while the X and P series focus on portability and high-performance respectively.

Here's a breakdown of the ThinkPad series (some from Google Search AI):

  • E Series
    • The most budget-friendly option, aimed at small businesses and consumers, offering basic performance and features.
  • L Series
    • A step up from the E series, targeting small to medium businesses and enterprises, with improved durability and security features.
  • T Series
    • The flagship ThinkPad series, designed for professionals and enterprise users, featuring premium materials, higher performance, and advanced security features.
  • X Series
    • The ultraportable line, known for its thin and light design, with a focus on portability and premium build quality.
  • X1 Carbon
    • The flagship ultraportable line, offering a balance of portability and performance, with excellent build quality in a 14-inch form factor.
  • P Series
    • Workstation/desktop replacement line, featuring powerful CPUs and GPUs for demanding tasks, often larger and heavier than other ThinkPad models.
  • Z Series
    • An AMD-powered version of the X1 Carbon line, discontinued and merged with the standard P1, focused towards creators and media consumption.
  • Yoga
    • A 2-in-1 series that combines the renowned power and reliability of ThinkPad laptops with the amazing versatility our Lenovo Yoga line with it's unique 360-degree hinge. A ThinkPad Yoga system works as a traditional laptop at home and in business meetings, or you can flip the screen around to use it as a tablet for casual web surfing, on-the-go note-taking, and more.

Explained

  • Lenovo ThinkPad T15 Gen 2 Laptop I5-1135G7
    • T15
      • T Series with a 15" screen
    • Gen 2/G2
      • Generation 2
      • G2/G7: If you see these on their own, it probably is the generation, but make sure it is not part of the CPU number
        • check with other links just to see if this was one mistake.
    • I5-1135G7
      • Intel 11th Gen CPU

Docking Stations

 

 

 

Other Lenovo Laptop Models

  • ThinkPad
    • Flagship, made for business and capable of heavy processing.
  • Lenovo ThinkBook
    • Budget
      Home and Office
      ThinkBook is built with the casual user in mind and is historically more affordable, it doesn’t feature the same hardware we see in the ThinkPad.
  • Lenovo IdeaPad
    • Everyday laptops for first-time users.
    • High-performance laptops for serious gamers.
    • Convertible PCs for those who like their entertainment on the go.
    • The IdeaPad line includes various models, including clamshell laptops and convertible 2-in-1s, while the Yoga series focuses on hybrid designs. They also do `Slim` models
    • The IdeaPad is better for those looking for a traditional laptop at a more affordable price.
  • Lenovo Yoga
    • A line of 2-in-1 laptops that can be used as both a laptop and a tablet, featuring a hinge that allows the screen to rotate 360 degrees.
    • For the home user
    • Focuses on hybrid designs
    • Yoga is more expensive than IdeaPad but offers more versatility and flexibility in terms of usage.
  • Lenovo Legion
    • Gaming laptops and other devices.
    • Designed for gamers who demand high performance and stunning graphics.

Misc Links

  • General
    • Why is Lenovo moving to soldered RAM? This just makes me both mad and dissapointed... | Reddit
      • It’s fairly common on AMD laptops because the Ryzen APUs require a lot of memory bandwidth to perform well on graphics stuff. Many laptops just solder it to the board so that they can take advantage of LPDDR (stands for low-power DDR, and must be soldered as per spec) and also guarantees that they can run it in dual channel without having to worry about space for RAM slots.
      • The Lenovo T14 Gen 5 will have Sodimm ram, user replaceable.
      • Lenovo worked with Ifixit to improve the repairability of the laptop.
      • People siding with Lenovo are ridiculous. For example LPDDR5 are in abundance because of smartphones so basically Lenovo's using them to lessen manufacturing costs for more profit. LPDDR has higher speed than SoDIMM but in OP's post, they use the base LPDDR5 which is 4800, so no advantage in this case.
      • Lenovo's opting for soldered RAM is not about making the laptop price lower, it is to maintain or increase their profit margin. There is 0 benefit for the user in OP's case by going to soldered LPDDR5-4800.
  • Hardware Compatibility
Published in Other Devices
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Friday, 28 March 2025 13:39

Divi Slider Module

 

Convert to a Image Carousel / Full Width Image Slider

When trying to do an edge to edge fullwidth image slider in Divi so you can use it as an Image carousel, you might run across some simple problems and below are some solutions to this issue.

The Fullwidth slider and normal slider module behave in the same way and the following methods will work on both of them.

Styling and settings common to all methods

This styles the slider how I want it, which is quite standard.

  • Put an instance of the Divi `Slider`module where you want it
  • Configure these settings as follows:
    • Content --> Elements --> Show Arrows: No
    • Content --> Elements --> Show Controls: No
    • Design --> Spacing --> Padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;
    • Design --> Animation --> Automatic Animation: On
    • Design --> Animation --> Automatic Animation speed: 7000 (default 7000)
    • Design --> Animation --> Continue Automatic Slide on Hover: Yes
    • Slide --> Content --> Text --> Title: rename to `Slide 1`
      • You can also use a name like `Slide 1 - White House` if you need descriptions for your many slides.
      • We will use CSS to disable this so we can keep the slides title for easier management
    • Slide --> Content --> Text --> Button: remove text
      • can use CSS to disable
    • Slide --> Content --> Text --> Body: remove text
      • can use CSS to disable
    • Slide --> Content --> Background --> Colour: none
  • Save the module
  • Delete all slides but one

Using the Background (Lenoi's Method)

This is the simplest method and easy to do. This whole module is designed for this.

  • Follow the section above called `Styling and settings common to all methods`.
  • Remove the custom gutters, width + max width to 100%  - and this might on be needed on the normal slider module
  • Slide 1
    • Put the image as the background: Slide --> Content --> Background --> Background Image
  • Edit `Slide 1` as follows:
    • Slide --> Content --> Background --> Background Image
  • Add and additional Slide (repeat as required)
    • Duplicate `Slide 1`
    • Change the Title
      • Slide --> Content --> Text --> Title
      • Give the slide a proper name (i.e. `Slide 2` or `Slide 2 - Buckingham Palace`).
    • Change the slider image
      • Slide --> Content --> Background --> Background Image
  • Disable Title and Content with CSS
    • Only the Title needs to be disabled here as the other fields should be empty, but if not this code will hide them.
    • Advanced --> Custom CSS --> Free-Form CSS --> CSS: 
      /* Disable Title and Content */
selector .et_pb_slide_description .et_pb_slide_title,
selector .et_pb_slide_description .et_pb_slide_content {
    display: none;
}
  • Save the module

Using `Image & Video` (Divi Sensei method)

This allows you to use the slider's `Image and Video`in a full width mode using CSS code to do the magic and works for both fullwidth and the normal slider module and is based on Create a Fullwidth Image Slider using the Divi Slider Module | Divi Sensei

  • Follow the section above called `Styling and settings common to all methods`.
  • Edit `Slide 1`
    • Set the slide image: Slide --> Content --> Image & Video --> Image
  • Add an additional Slide (repeat as required)
    • Duplicate `Slide 1`
    • Change the Title
      • Slide --> Content --> Text --> Title
      • Give the slide a proper name (i.e. `Slide 2` or `Slide 2 - Buckingham Palace`).
    • Change the slider image
      • Slide --> Content --> Image & Video --> Image
  • Apply the required CSS
    • Method 1 - Global CSS
      • Add this CSS to: Divi --> Theme Options --> General --> Custom CSS 
        /* Convert Slider module into an Image Carousel (Divi Sensei, Cleaned) - Just add .full-image-slider to your slider - Original */

.full-image-slider .et_pb_slide {
    padding-left: 0 !important;
    padding-right: 0 !important;
}

.full-image-slider .et_pb_slide:first-child .et_pb_slide_image img.active {
    animation: unset !important;
}

.full-image-slider .et_pb_container {
    max-width: 100% !important;
    width: 100% !important;
    height: auto !important;
    min-height: 0 !important;
}

.full-image-slider .et_pb_slide_image img {
    max-height: none !important;
    width: 100% !important;
}

.full-image-slider .et_pb_slide_image {
    margin: 0 !important;
    padding: 0 !important;
    top: 0 !important;
    position: relative !important;
    width: 100% !important;
    display: block !important;
    -webkit-animation-name: fade !important;
    -moz-animation-name: fade !important;
    -ms-animation-name: fade !important;
    -o-animation-name: fade !important;
    animation-name: fade !important;
}

.full-image-slider .et_pb_slider_container_inner {
    position: relative;
}

.full-image-slider .et_pb_slide_description {
    position: absolute !important;
    top: 0 !important;
    bottom: 0 !important;
    left: 0 !important;
    right:  0 !important;
    padding: 0 !important;
    margin: 0 !important;
    width: auto !important;
    height: auto !important;
}

.full-image-slider .et_pb_slide_description .et_pb_button_wrapper,
.full-image-slider .et_pb_slide_description .et_pb_button_wrapper a,
.full-image-slider .et_pb_slide_description .et_pb_button_wrapper a:hover {
    width: 100% !important;
    height: 100% !important;
    padding: 0 !important;
    margin: 0 !important;
    color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) !important;  
    border: none !important;
    background: none !important;
}

.et_pb_column.et_pb_slider_fullwidth_off.full-image-slider .et_pb_slide_description .et_pb_slide_title,
.et_pb_column.et_pb_slider_fullwidth_off.full-image-slider .et_pb_slide_description .et_pb_slide_content,
.full-image-slider .et_pb_slide_description .et_pb_slide_title,
.full-image-slider .et_pb_slide_description .et_pb_slide_content {
    display: none;
}
      • Add the following CSS class to each slider you want to transform 
        full-image-slider
    • Method 2 - Selector
      • Add the following CSS to each slider module you want to transform to: Advanced --> Custom CSS --> Free-Form CSS --> CSS 
        /* Convert Slider module into an Image Carousel (Divi Sensei) - Adapted to use Free-Form CSS */

selector .et_pb_slide {
    padding-left: 0 !important;
    padding-right: 0 !important;
}

selector .et_pb_slide:first-child .et_pb_slide_image img.active {
    animation: unset !important;
}

selector .et_pb_container {
    max-width: 100% !important;
    width: 100% !important;
    height: auto !important;
    min-height: 0 !important;
}

selector .et_pb_slide_image img {
    max-height: none !important;
    width: 100% !important;
}

selector .et_pb_slide_image {
    margin: 0 !important;
    padding: 0 !important;
    top: 0 !important;
    position: relative !important;
    width: 100% !important;
    display: block !important;
    -webkit-animation-name: fade !important;
    -moz-animation-name: fade !important;
    -ms-animation-name: fade !important;
    -o-animation-name: fade !important;
    animation-name: fade !important;
}

selector .et_pb_slider_container_inner {
    position: relative;
}

selector .et_pb_slide_description {
    position: absolute !important;
    top: 0 !important;
    bottom: 0 !important;
    left: 0 !important;
    right:  0 !important;
    padding: 0 !important;
    margin: 0 !important;
    width: auto !important;
    height: auto !important;
}

selector .et_pb_slide_description .et_pb_button_wrapper,
selector .et_pb_slide_description .et_pb_button_wrapper a,
selector .et_pb_slide_description .et_pb_button_wrapper a:hover {
    width: 100% !important;
    height: 100% !important;
    padding: 0 !important;
    margin: 0 !important;
    color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) !important;  
    border: none !important;
    background: none !important;
}

selector .et_pb_slide_description .et_pb_slide_title,
selector .et_pb_slide_description .et_pb_slide_content {
    display: none;
}
  • Disable Title and Content with CSS
    • This is done with the CSS code above. Edit as required
  • Save the module

Notes

  • Make sure you remove the background colour on each slide to stop it flashing up between images and page load. I choose transparent (i.e. none) when getting the blue background.
  • My fullwidth image slider is only a thin line instead of a proper image.
    • This is caused by unwanted or incorrect padding
    • Fullwidth Slider --> Design --> Spacing --> padding
      • Below is the default CSS for the description which is also the padding parameter of the Fullwidth slide module.
        .et_pb_slide_description, .et_pb_slider_fullwidth_off .et_pb_slide_description {
  padding: 16% 8%;
  width: auto;
  margin: auto;
}
      • It is the description defaults that give the image slider its height and therefore the background and the corresponding image.
      • Don't use `Padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px` as this will give you the thin line issue.
      • I think this code is controlled with the slide DIV
    • Fullwidth Slider --> Design --> Spacing --> Margin
      • The is no margins by default and therefore no corresponding CSS code by default.
      • When you add a margin to the slider moduel you get the following CSS code added. 
        .et_pb_fullwidth_slider_0_tb_header {
  margin-top: 471px !important;
}
      • This CSS code is added to the modules boubdry DIV

 

Code

Constant Image Size

It is best to use images of the same dimensions when making a slider but if you cannot for some reason then use the following code to make images with different sizes all display with a constant dimensions:

Advanced --> Free-Form CSS --> CSS

/* set the height of the slide image*/
selector .et_pb_slide_image img {
    width: auto;
    height: 600px; 
    object-fit: cover;
}

 

Custom Gallery Arrows

/* Custom Gallery Arrows */
.et-pb-arrow-prev::before {
    content: "4";
    background-color: #24bca4;
    border: 1px solid #fff;
    border-radius: 50%;
    color: #fff;
}

.et-pb-arrow-next::before {
    content: "5";
    background-color: #24bca4;
    border: 1px solid #fff;
    border-radius: 50%;
    color: #fff;
} 

 

Links

 

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Friday, 21 March 2025 10:50

Setting up a WordPress Blog for a Client using Divi

Below are the basic instructions pon setting up a blog for you client (or yourself). Once you have set up your blog you can always change the look and feel afterwards.

Create a page, and call it Blog

  • make sure you have not defined the 'blog' page for displaying [posts as this will prevent you from editing it with Divi, unless you use the blog template in theme builder)
  • Settings --> Reading --> Your homepage displays --> Posts page: `– Select –`
  • if you have I think you need to add another template in theme builder?? or it just uses the default global, see what it foes `blog template`
  • or design a template and do your styling there, but i prefer the blog page, but does this cause issues?

Design your Blog page

There are 2 places you can design your `Blog` page:

  1. A standard page
  2. Using the `Blog` template in `Theme Builder`

I prefer creating a `Blog` page as it is easy and more logical for me to manage, especially for small sites.

Using the `Blog` template to override the posts page as defined in static pages is a not really needed unless you have a specific reason such as overriding the `Global` Header and Footer or even just adding a featured image.

You can mix and max the styles below by having blocks with a Sidebar but you might find you run out of real estate on your page quickly.

Layout 1 - Blocks (Divi Default)

Follow the instructions below, styling as required, and you will get a layout similar to the Divi Blog that utilises blocks.

  • Top Section (Regular) = n/a
  • Middle Section (Regular)
    • 1st Row (3 Column: 1/5, 3/5, 1/5)
      • 1st Column
        • Empty
      • 2nd Column
        • Module(s):
          • Text
            • Use the text
              • <h1>: QuantumWarp Blog
              • <p>: Stay up to date with our most recent news and updates
            • I use a custom header with the title and other text in it instead of this module as this fits with my site. So this section is not needed for my page.
          • Search
            • Input Placeholder: Search Our Blog
            • Show Button: No
            • Exclude Pages: Yes
            • Save as a Global module calling it `Blog - Search`.
      • 3rd Column
        • Empty
    • 2nd Row (1 Column)
      • 1st Column
        • Module(s)
          • Blog
            • Post Type: Posts
            • Post Count: 9
            • Content Length: Show Excerpt
            • Use Post Excerpts: Yes
            • Show Featured Image: Yes
            • Show read More Button: Yes
            • Show Author: No
            • Show Date: Yes
            • Show Categories: Yes
            • Show Comment Count: Yes
            • Show Pagination Yes
            • Save as a Global module calling it `Blog - Posts`.
  • Bottom Section = n/a

Layout - Standard Article List (with Sidebar)

Follow the instructions below, style as required and you will get a standard post list layout with a sidebar.

  • Top Section (Regular)
    • 1st Row (1 column)
      • 1st Column
        •  Module(s):
          • `Post Title`
            • I use a custom header with the title and other text in it instead of this module as this fits with my site. So this section is not needed for my page.
  • Middle Section (Regular)
    • 1st Row (2 columns: 2/3, 1/3)
      • 1st Column
        • Module(s):
          • `Post Content`
            • .....add setting notes here.............
      • 2nd Column
        • Module(s):
          • Sidebar
            •  Add relevant widgets to the sidebar such as `search`
            • `Widget Area` set to `Sidebar`
            • (Optional) Remove the grey separator bar
            • Save as a Global module calling it `Blog - Sidebar`.
  • Bottom Section = n/a

Design your Post Page

Follow the instructions below, style as required and you will get a standard post list layout with a sidebar.

If you don't want a sidebar, set the middle section row to have only 1 column and remove the `Sidebar` module and configuration from the following instructions, the rest will be the same.

If you don't want comments, just don't add the bottom section.

Create the Template

  • Divi --> Theme Builder --> Add New Template --> Build New Template --> Use On: `All Posts` --> Create Template
  • Divi --> Theme Builder --> `All Posts` --> Add Global Body --> Build Custom Body

Build your Layout

Create the layout as shown below:

  • Top Section (Regular)
    • 1st Row (1 column)
      • 1st Column
        •  Module(s):
          • `Post Title`
            • Show Title: Yes
            • Show Meta: No
            • Show Author: Yes
            • Show Date: Yes
            • Show Posts Categories: Yes
            • Show Comments Count: No
            • Show Featured Image: No
            • I use a custom header with the title and other text in it instead of this module as this fits with my site. I would therefore insert the dynamic `Post title` in there. So this section is not needed for my page.
  • Middle Section (Regular)
    • 1st Row (2 columns: 2/3, 1/3)
      • 1st Column
        • Module(s):
          • `Post Content`
            • .....add setting notes here.............
      • 2nd Column
        • Module(s):
          • Sidebar
            • Use the Global module `Blog Sidebar`.
            • `Widget Area` set to `Sidebar`
            • (Optional) Remove the grey separator bar
            • Add relevant widgets to the sidebar such as `search`
  • Bottom Section
    • 1st Row (1 Column)
      • 1st Column
        • Module(s):
          • `Comments`
            • .....add setting notes here.............

Design your Search Results page

After someone has used the blog search feature you need to make sure the search results they are offered are styled correctly.

You can use either either of the `Blog` page layouts, but it you want to use your `Blog` page design you used above then this is very simple,

Instructions

  • Make sure any modules you want to be in sync between this page and the `Blog` page are made global.
  • Divi --> Theme Builder --> Add New Template --> Build New Template --> Use On: `Search Results` --> Create Template
  • Divi --> Theme Builder --> `Search Results` --> Add Global Body --> Build Custom Body
  • Copy your `Blog` page layout and paste into
    • Divi --> Theme Builder --> `Search Results`--> Custom Body
  • Make the following changes:
    • Change the Page Title to be `Search Results`.

 

 

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Thursday, 13 March 2025 13:40

Allow the `ms-windows-store` protocol to be used in a `Custom Links` menu item URL

I want to use a `ms-windows-store://`link which will open the `Quick Assist` app in the `Microsoft Windows Store`on the local PC and not the website. This link will make it easier for allowing me to remotely access a client's PC when required rather that telling them on how to install software or press certain keys on the keyboard.

By using the local `Windows Store`, the product page for the app benefits from:

  • Being able to recognise if the app is installed on the PC
    • The blue action button changes accordingly, so instead of seeing always seeing a `Download` button (as you would on the Microsoft Windows Store website) you will see an `Open` button if the app is installed or a `Get` button if not.
    • With either option you click the big blue action button and follow the steps.
    • Some browsers will ask if you are allowed to open `ms-windows-store` links, but this is a very easy message for the user to click and thwe finish the procedure.
  • The user is more likely logged in locally
    • This might be advantages for many apps not discussed here.

`Quick Assist` Store links

Issue

You can easily add links to the Microsoft Store website as these are normal URLs, however, when I use a `ms-windows-store` URLs in a custom link menu item, it is always removed.

Cause

  • WordPress is filtering all URLs and if the protocol is not allowed it is wiping them so the new custom link will save with an empty URL field.
  • WordPress has a list of allowed protocols it uses for filtering URLs and `ms-windows-store` is not in it.

Solution

Add `ms-windows-store` as an allowed protocol, steps of which are now outlined below.

I found how to add a protocol to the `Allowed Protocols` list with information in this article, Using WordPress ‘kses_allowed_protocols’ PHP filter | IT Support Guides and is in 2 parts, the code, and then where to put it.

You can also craft a custom menu item type using the plugin Menu Item Types – WordPress plugin | WordPress.org but this requires sometime to extract the code from WordPress and build a custom menu item type which can be used by this plugin. Most of the relevant code links are in the research section at the end.

The Code

I modified the code from the article to add/allow the `ms-windows-store` protocol.

// Add a Custom Protocol (ms-windows-store)
add_filter('kses_allowed_protocols', 'add_myprotocol');
function add_myprotocol($protocols)
{
	$protocols[] = 'ms-windows-store';
	return $protocols;
}

Where to put the code?

TL;DR - Use Code Snippets and have the code snippet run everywhere. The URL is filtered when submitted and then when displayed.

Now you have the relevant code, where do you put it? There are several ways to add these filters in to WordPress, pick which one is best for you. Your different options are below:

  • Code Snippets plugin
    • Code Snippets – WordPress plugin | WordPress.org - An easy, clean and simple way to enhance your site with code snippets. 
    • This plugin allows for code to be added from within the WordPress admin area.
    • It is a very completed plugin with such features as apply the code only to the admin area.
    • There is an option to allow code to stay present even if the plugin is removed.
  • Custom plugin
    • Create a blank plugin and add your code in the main file of the plugin
    • You can use the WordPress file editor to add/remove code.
    • If you update your plugin, the code might change, but this will be human error.
    • you can use `is_admin()` to define the code to run just for the admin area.
  • Theme functions.php
    • this will get overridden on a theme update.
  • Child Theme functions.php
    • This file will not get overridden when the theme is updated

Research

These are some of the relevant code locations I found.

Functions (in order of how I found the solution)

  • print_post_type_container()
    • wp-includes/class-wp-customize-nav-menus.php : ~1221
    • This has the HTML for the `Custom Links` blade in the `Add menu items` accordion on the left hand side of the `Menus` page.
  • content_template()
    • wp-includes/customize/class-wp-customize-nav-menu-item-control.php : 64
    • This has the HTML for the `Custom Link` menu item in the current menu shown under `Menu Structure` on the right hand side of the `Menus` page.
    • Javascript/Ajax is heavily used to fill in the variables.
    • This might be for the frontend???
  • wp_update_nav_menu_item()
    • wp-includes/nav-menu.php : ~315
    • Saves the properties of a menu item or create a new one.
    • Includes the use of esc_html()
  • esc_html()
    • wp-includes/formatting.php : ~4654
    • Escaping for HTML blocks.
  • esc_url_raw()
    • wp-includes/formatting.php : ~4574
    • Sanitizes a URL for database or redirect usage.
  • wp_allowed_protocols()
    • wp-includes\functions.php : ~7158
    • Retrieves a list of protocols to allow in HTML attributes.
    • The default protocols are hardcoded in this function but can be overridden/appended/deleted with kses_allowed_protocols()

Links

 

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Friday, 07 March 2025 16:55

Dell Desktop, Laptop and Charger model numbers explained

The Dell model number system is hard to understand so I have put together some notes to explain these numbers.

Names

Latitude, Inspiron, Vostro (discontinued), OptiPlex, Precision

Type

 

Desktops

These naming convention is based on OptiPlex but some of it is valid for other desktops.

  • Example: OptiPlex 3070 Micro
  • Explanation:
    • A business class desktop PC
    • in the 3000 series
    • first manufactured in June 2019
    • Micro format
  • OptiPlex = Target Market
    • OptiPlex = Corporate enterprises, healthcare, government, and education markets.
    • Inspiron = Consumer oriented / Home user.
  • 3 = Line
    • 3xxx = Entry
    • 5xxx = Mainstream
    • 7xxx = High-tier
  • 0 = ???
  • 7 = ???
  • 0 = ???
  • Micro = Form Factor

Links

  • Dell OptiPlex - Wikipedia
    • A line of business-oriented desktop and all-in-one computers made for corporate enterprises, healthcare, the government, and education markets.
    • This article gives a timeline of these desktop PCs.
  • Dell Inspiron - Wikipedia - No meta description

Laptops

I have used information found for the Latitude range of Dell laptops but the rules should be the same for the other laptop ranges such as XPS and Inspiron.

  • Example: Latitude 7390 2-in-1
  • Explanation:
    • A business class laptop
    • in the 7000 series
    • with a 13" screen
    • first manufactured in 2018
    • which can be folded and used as a tablet by using it's touchscreen
  • Latitude = Target Market
    • Latitude = Corporate enterprises, healthcare, government, and education markets.
    • Vostro = Small Business (Discontinued)
    • Inspiron = Consumer oriented / Home user
    • XPS =  Gaming / Consumer oriented / Home user
  • 7 = Series
    • 3xxx series = Budget models intended for education and small businesses
    • 5xxx series = Mainstream line.
    • 7xxx series = Premium Ultrabooks.
    • 9xxx series = Ultra-premium laptops and 2-in-1s.
  • 3 = Screen Size
    • x1xx = 11.6"
    • x2xx = 12.3"
    • x3xx = 13" / 13.3"
    • x4xx = 14.0"
    • x5xx = 15.6
  • 9 = Year of 1st Manufacture
    • xx5x Models (2024)
    • xx4x Models (2023)
    • xx3x Models (2022)
    • xx2x Models (2021)
    • xx1x Models (2020)
    • xx0x Models (2019)
    • xx9x Models (2018)
    • xx8x Models (2017)
    • Dell used the "E-series" name up through the 2016 models, and new 2017 models drop the "E."
  • 0 = Model Revisions
    • This gives an additional parameter when two models have the same grade, screen size and generation of processor.
    • By default 0 is taken as the standard configuration and 1 if there is a later variant.
    • Some product ranges like the XPS like to use 0 as the standard laptop configuration and 5 as the `2 in 1` device while 4 is used in the Latitude range of products for rugged devices.
  • 2-in-1 = Additional feature
    • 2-in-1
    • Ultralight
    • Detachable
  • A laptop with the same model number can have a better CPU, Motherboard RAM and other features as the laptops are redeveloped over time but not necessary reflected with a new model number, perhaps because it uses the same chassis.
  • These different laptops will have a different Dell Part number.

Classification

I am not sure they are classified like this any more.

The laptops can be targeted at different markets so have an arbitrary description assigned to them which is not reflected in the model number.

  • Convertible
  • Education
  • Essential
  • High-Performance
  • Mainstream
  • Ultraportable

Links

 

  • Dell Latitude - Wikipedia
    • Dell Latitude was a line of laptop computers manufactured and sold by American company Dell Technologies. It was a business-oriented line, aimed at corporate enterprises, healthcare, government, and education markets; unlike the Inspiron and XPS series, which are aimed at individual customers, and the Vostro series, which is aimed at smaller businesses.
    • Gives the MFG Date by model number

 

Laptop Chargers

  • Example:
    • Model: LA45NM150
    • DP / N: 0HDCY5
  • Explanation:
    • Manufactured by LiteOn
    • with a 45w power rating
    • .......
  • LA = Manufacturer
    • DA = Delta Electronics
    • HA = Chicony Power Technology
    • LA = LiteOn
  • 45 = Power Rating
    • 45 = 45w
    • 65 = 65w
    • 100 = 100w
    • etc...
  • NM1 = ???
    • NM1
    • PM1
    • PM2
  • 50 = ???

Chargers can be made by different manufacturers but they will share the same Dell Part Number.

Links

 

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Monday, 10 February 2025 15:04

My Fujitsu fi-6130Z Scanner Notes

Official Sites

NB: Newer models of the scanner might have newer versions of software on their download pages. But you will need a serial and part number for the relevant scanner.

Installing

  • Power the scanner on but do not connect the USB to your PC
    • If you have already plugged the scanner in your will find it listed as an "Unknown Device"
  • Download the drivers FUJITSU TWAIN32 Version 10.21.700 (or the latest available)
    • Unless you are doing network scanning you can use the one with the "Scanner Central Admin Agent"
    • The version number for this file is for the Scanner Utility rather than using the driver version.
  • Run the FtaljgX1.exe driver file you have just downloaded
    • it will extract files to a folder called Disk1
    • I ran this EXE as administrator just to make sure it installs correctly.
  • Navigate the the Disk1 folder and run setup.exe
  • Follow the wizard through leaving both these options on:
    • Scanner Utility for Microsoft Windows (10.21.700) = This installs the TWAIN apps and Windows drivers.
      Software Operations Panel (3.7.16.0) = The Scanners control panel and installs as an APP.
  • Restart the PC when requested
  • Uninstall "FUJITSU Scanner USB Hotfix" (optional)
    • I am not sure what this does but might not be needed any more.
  • Connect the scanner to you PC with the USB cable and check it is recognised as follows:
  • Once installed, the driver is as follows:
    • The driver name is: fi-6130Zdj
    • Driver Provider: FUJITSU
    • Driver Date: 04/02/2025
    • Driver version: 9.25.17.0
    • Driver Signer: Microsoft Windows Hardware Compatibility Publisher

Notes

  • Alternatively once you have installed the drivers onto your Windows PC, you can use a driver extraction tool to grab just the required drivers files for your scanner because the installer install a lot of useless junk that is only used for TWAIN.
  • I think you can uninstall the "FUJITSU USB Hot fix" as this will of been for an old operating system, but I do not know what this does.

Misc

Troubleshooting

  • General
    • Apps will not see the scanner but it is shown in my device manager
      • This is probably because the APPs will only talk via TWAIN and there is some incompatibility.
      • This is my guess.
  • Installing on Windows
    • Fujitsu Scanner not recognizing - Hardware - Spiceworks Community
      • A couple of potential solutions mentioned here.
      • You will need to download the software (full suite) or use the disk that came with the scanner. Once you have that (leave the scanner disconnected), install the twain and isis drivers. Also go ahead and install the scandall pro software (it’s pretty good). Once all of that is installed, reboot and connect the scanner. It will then show up under devices and printers.
      • Install Paper Stream IP Driver for Windows 10 for fi-6130Z. TWAIN driver is not compatible any more for this scanner with Windows 10.
    • New to Fujitsu fi-6130 : r/Fujitsu | Reddit
      • Downloaded the fi-6130 setup CD from here.
      • I'm not certain if the TWAIN driver works in Windows 10/11, so in ScandALL you may need to go into Tool -> Preferences -> Scan and change it from TWAIN to ISIS.
      • Use NAPS2
  • Installing on Windows 11
    • Important Notice - the Use of Scanners in in Windows 11, version 24H2 | Global | Ricoh
    • Scanner Twain driver for Windows 11 - or how to make Windows 11 allow - Microsoft Community
      • Pete Schliebner
        • It's not just Fujitsu scanners that are affected. I am pretty sure that it is all scanners, and twain drivers, in general. None of the OEM's have a clue how to fix it. This seems like a typical Microcrap decision to force everyone to use the very limited Microsoft WSD drivers for scanners and printers and then only use the apps that MS "approves". Doesn't cause as many problems with printers, but it severely limits the scanner functions.
      • M.O.118
        • In Dec 2024, we transitioned from Windows 10 to Windows 11 (24H2) on a new PC at work. Connection problem with Fujitsu fi-6130dj scanner which worked in Windows 10. Installation of Windows 11 TWAIN driver from manufacturer was successful. The scanner was listed working in Device Manager but the scanner either did not show or showed as "WIA No Friendly Name" in any application. After some searching, I found the following instruction:
        • At the step: "{Select the device driver you want to install for this hardware] window and click [Next]", 2 entries of fi-6130dj showed. I chose the 2nd one and voila, the TWAIN driver AND WIA driver for the Fujitsu scanner were restored. Now both TWAIN and WIA show in all applications. Hopefully, the same process will fix scanners/multifunction machines of other brands. If you have only one driver listed in the last step, it's an easy choice. If you have 2 listings like mine, try one or the other to see which works. Good luck.
    • Use NAPS2 if you are having connetion problems.

 

 

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Thursday, 26 December 2024 11:15

My Amazon Fire TV Stick Notes

These are a collection of useful tips and tricks for using the Amazon Fire TV Stick (aka Firestick)

Casting Issue with AirScreen

Issue

I connected once to my Firestick all good with airscreen, I then could not reconnect whatever i did. This was after i changed the name of the airscreen.

Cause

The reason for this fault is most likely some sort of cache that is not getting cleared with the name and device id etc..

Solution

  • Turn the screen sharing app off on the Firestick
  • Scan for casting devices with your phone and it should find one.
  • Whilst the scanning is continuing on the phone turn airscreen on
  • The new device will show up and you can connect to it.

USB Pendrive will not work with a OTG cable

TL;DR

  • The pendrive (or another USB device) needs to be inserted into the USB socket on the OTG cable when you power on the Firestick to enable OTG, after this it will work as expected, inserting and removing the pendrive and other devices, because OTG is enabled.
  • The pendrive must be formatted to FAT32.
  • You could use a OTG cable with a USB hub buily-in which would keep the OTG live at all times and not required a USB device to be plugged in to activate it leaving you free to insert pendrives when you want rather than having to remember to have a USB device plugged in at boot time. This might get fixed in later software updates and might not be present on all Firestick versions.

This can be very frustrating but here is a simple procedure that will getyour pendrive to work in most cases.

Instructions

  • Install the OTG cable into the Firestick and power up the Firestick to make sure the cable works.
  • Unplug OTG cable from the Firestick, which turns it off.
  • Plug your USB Pendrive into the USB socket on the OTG cable.
    • The Pendrive must be formatted to FAT32 (and preferably blank)
    • FAT32 has a filesize limit of 4GB
  • Plug the power end of the OTG cable into the Firestick which will power it up.
  • The Firestick will transfer over relevant folders (i.e. DCIM, Documents, etc...) to the pendrive
    • The drive is treated like External Storage?
    • It will not delete any files that are already present on the drive.
    • I would like to know what file/folder is used as a Boolean check for whether or not to copy over files and folders to the USB drive.
    • If the pendrive is not formatted to FAT32: You will get a "Unable to Read USB Device" error message and the options to Format to External Storage, Format to Device Storage or Do Nothing.
  • The USB drive will now appear as an available storage on your Firestick and in your Apps.

Notes

  • Everything you need to know about USB Storage with the Amazon Fire TV | AFTVnews
  • Any OTG cable will work
  • When booted you can remove the pendrive, put into your PC to copy files and then put back into the Firestick and it will reflect with the new files. When re-inserted the Firestick recognises the pendrive has just been inserted rather than the system thinking it never has been removed.
  • You do not have to use a pendrive to enable OTG, you could use a wireless keyboard dongle just the same (having it installed before powering on) allowing you to use a pendrive after boot preventing it getting populated with unwanted files and folders.
  • When OTG is enabled and there is a pendrive installed you have the extra menu options:
    • Settings --> My Fire TV --> USB Drive --> Eject USB Drive
    • Settings --> My Fire TV --> USB Drive --> Format to Internal Storage
  • When removing a pendrive you should eject it to prevent getting warning messages although these will not break anything and are just annoying.
  • If your pendrive is not recognised even when using this method
    • Just rename the volume of the pendrive in Windows to something else and then plug it back into your Firestick following the insertion instructions above
    • ES Explorer might be intercepting the drive blocking it from other apps so you could also try removing ES Explorer App if you are having issues.
  • Not all phones and devices support more than 2x devices being plugged in at the same time so this limitation might apply to Firesticks, but this explains why the OTG adapters from AliExpress do not come with more than 2 USB A sockets.
  • Do not buy the OTG adapters with a switch for OTG and Charge as you will only be able to do either or with these adapters. They are the old generation where you could not charge and use USB devices at the same time.

Play movies from a NTFS formatted Pendrive

Access NTFS Drives On Firestick (No Root!) | TechDoctorUK

This tutorial has a really easy video to follow to setup your Firestick to use NTFS formatted drives using ES File explorer.

ES File explorer allows you to mount NTFS drives and then open files on them with your chosen media player. I am not sure if the mounted drives are available outside of the ES File explorer.

Quick Instructions

  • Ensure you have a suitable media player such as VLC Player or Kodi installed.
  • Install "ES File Explorer" (You can do this from the normal Amazon App store).
  • Make sure OTG is enabled and insert your NTFS pendrive.
  • Open "ES File Explorer" and you will see you internal storage and the USB drive but it will not be recognised.
  • On the left hand side scroll down to "Local" and find the USB drive.
  • Click on the USB drive and allow any permissions it asks for.
  • Select Open
  • Browse to your movie file and select "Open As Video"
  • Select your media player and your movie will start to play.

Putting an movie file which is larger than 4GB onto a USB Pendrive formatted with FAT32

Firesticks will only read USB pendrives that are formatted in FAT32 and this filesystem has a file size limit of 4GB. Normally this would not be an issue but if you have a movie that is larger than 4GB you cannot put it on your pendrive but I hear people say just put it on a network drive which is great if your network is capable of the required speed.

The instructions below will show you how to work around this limit by creating an archive of your movie file that is split up into files that are smaller than the 4GB filesize limit of FAT32 and then playing them in a capable player.

Install and Configure KODI to Play Archives

Kodi is capable of playing movies that are encapsulated in archive files (using addons) as if they were one file. Currently VLC player cannot play archive files on the Firestick.

  • Install Kodi following this tutorial
  • Install these virtual-filesystems Addons
    • Config --> Addons --> Virtual filesystems --> Archive support
      • I could not get this Addon to recognise my movie archive, maybe because it is a multi-part zip.
    • Config --> Addons --> Virtual filesystems --> RAR archive support
      • The RAR addon only allows direct reading of uncompressed RAR files. Other types of rar (i.e. compressed) will be temporarily extracted
  • RAR and ZIP files are not media files so you need to make sure Kodi can see these archive types.
    • Settings --> Applications --> Manage Installed Applications --> Kodi --> Permissions --> Files and media: All Files
    • This setting would also apply to VLC player if this ever starts playing archive files.

Prepare the Movie Archive

In this section we will break the movie into smaller files so these can be put onto the FAT32 pendrive.

  • On a PC, using WinRAR, compress the movie file using the following settings:
    • Archive format: RAR
    • Compression method: Store
      • No actual compression is done. You cannot really compress a movie file anyway.
    • Split into volumes, size: (4,095 MB (FAT32)
      • This makes makes sure the segments are smaller than 4GB and can fit on FAT32.
      • You can select your own filesizes as long as they are smaller than this.
  • Put the RAR archive files onto the pendrive and insert into the Firestick.

Open Kodi and Play the Movie

Insert your pendrive so it is visible in the Firestick and Kodi will now show the movie as normal with thumbnails, and can be played as such.

As mentioned above I could not get multi-part zip files to work but this might change with updates to the software, however the RAR option works well so you should just use that file type.

Other

Published in Other Devices
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Sunday, 10 November 2024 13:33

My Bitwarden Notes

This collection of notes makes using Bitwarden easier.

 

Some thoughts (I might changemy mind)

  • You should not store your TOTP codes in Bitwarden
    • Bitwarden = Username and Passwords
    • 2FAS = TOTP codes
    • Protect your devices (i.e. mobile phone) with your fingerprint, Yubikey or PIN.
  • Enable 2FA on your Bitwarden vault with an external App (i.e. 2FA)
    • This makes everything 2FA (sort off)
    • Stops password guessing
    • Print your TOTP codes for Bitwarden

Settings

  • Domain Matching Issue
    • Using URIs | Bitwarden Help Center - Find out more about how URI match detection works in the Bitwarden password manager.
      • "browser extension --> Settings --> Options --> General --> Default URI match detection: Host"
    • You can set the match detection to “Host” on all your logins.
      • They will only be suggested when the host fully matches (subdomain and port included) the page you’re on.
    • Lastpass password manager had the ability to specify which mapping to perform for the example.com domain.
      • In Bitwarden Manager, the mapping happens either GLOBALLY or at the individual password / host / URL level. It is not comfortable.
  • Not Autofilling in passwords
  • How to add a custom field easily
    • Autofill Custom Fields | Bitwarden Help Center - Bitwarden can do more than just autofill your usernames and passwords! Bitwarden browser extensions can autofill custom fields to simplify filling in security questions, PINS, and more using the unique Tab view.
  • Bitwarden keeps timing out
  • Lock or Lockout
    • Vault Timeout Options | Bitwarden Help Center - Learn how to set a Vault timeout timer and behavior for your Bitwarden password manager.
    • Best Practices - Log Out or Lock? - Password Manager - Bitwarden Community Forums
      • It’s pretty simple:
        • Logging in retrieves a copy of your encrypted vault data from the cloud, stores the encrypted data file (data.json) in persistent storage on your device (e.g., on your hard drive), and automatically proceeds to unlock your vault.
        • Unlocking reads the data.json file, decrypts its contents, and stores the decrypted vault data in the memory of your device.
        • Locking clears the (decrypted) vault data from the memory of your device, but leaves the encrypted data.json file in persistent storage on your device.
        • Logging out clears the memory of your device (same as locking), but also purges the encrypted contents of the data.json file. Thus, your device no longer contains any vault data, either encrypted or decrypted, neither in memory nor on disk.
      • The majority of users stay logged in all the time, and just lock their vaults when not in use.
      • = lock
  • Floating Window
    • On the app click on the square with the arrow and resize as required
    • This floating window can stay open

Tutorials

 

Import / Export Data

2FA

  • I need some clarification on 2FA
    • Q:
      • Obviously if I just add an authenticator 2FA to my account and then I loose the tokens and my recovery codes I cannot access my account.
      • My question is, if I also add an alternative email for 2FA, will this be available and work even if I do not have my TOTP tokens and recovery codes?
    • A:
  • Two-step Login Methods | Bitwarden Help Center
    • The Bitwarden password manager supports multiple two-step login methods, also know as 2FA and two-factor authentication, such as through an authenticator app or email. Learn how to set up and use each method.
    • TOTP + email can be used for free
  • Two-step Login via Authenticator | Bitwarden Help Center - This article explains how you can add an extra layer of protection to your Bitwarden Vault by setting up two-step login with an authenticator app like Authy.
  • How To Set Up and Use 2FA on Bitwarden | Nerds Chalk - Let’s take a look at how to set up 2FA on Bitwarden and then how to use it. 
  • Integrated Authenticator | Bitwarden Help Center - Password Manager integrated authentication is an alternative to dedicated authentication apps which you can use to verify your identity for websites and apps that use two-step login and offers greater convenience.
  • Using Bitwarden for both passwords and TOTP (i.e both 2FA factors)
    • Benefits of using the Bitwarden Authenticator - Securing your GitHub Account with Bitwarden | Bitwarden Blog
      • With two-factor authentication built into Bitwarden, you can rest assured that you always have it handy and ready to go. Of course some people ask what is the point of having the two-factor authentication within Bitwarden and doesn’t this negate the value of two-factor?
    • Using the Bitwarden Authenticator with external accounts - Basics of two-factor authentication with Bitwarden | Bitwarden Blog
      • Of course, some may ask what is the point of having your username, email, and your two-step login code all stored within the same application — namely Bitwarden? Doesn’t that negate the value of two-step login?
      • The answer depends. Let’s break it down.
        1. Your Bitwarden Vault hopefully already has two-step login using some other method. (ie. do not use the Bitwarden Authenticator to protect your Bitwarden account.) Therefore it is currently protected with a high level of security and, in fact, two-step login.
        2. Having two-step login enabled for websites and applications is always better than not having it enabled. A tighter bundling of two-step login makes it easier to use more frequently, which promotes better security hygiene as a practice.
        3. If you need to share an item, you can share it with two-step login enabled, which, again, is better security practice. This is a collaboration and two-step login power move.
        4. You do not need to remember which authentication app you used, since it is built in.
        5. You can always choose, on an individual basis, which login you want to authenticate internally within the Bitwarden app, or externally using a separate Authenticator app.
      • Bitwarden users find that the integrated Authenticator functionality provides faster workflows with better security and dexterity for collaboration. Users also note that they apply different policies to different types of accounts. Primary financial institutions may be authenticated externally using a separate Authenticator app, while all of their ecommerce logins are authenticated internally within Bitwarden.
    • Security risks of using Bitwarden as authenticator and password manager - Password Manager - Bitwarden Community Forums
      • This is  great discussion about this topic and should be read in full.
      • Q:
        • I’d appreciate the opinions and inputs of others with more expertise in security. My concern of using Bitwarden as both authenticator and password manager is that it seems to defeat the whole purpose of two-factor authentication.
        • If someone were to hack into my Bitwarden account, they’d basically have access to everything, including the one-time passwords. Having the password manager separated from the authenticator by device and account seems to be a much more secure approach. For this reason, I’m currently not using Bitwarden as authenticator, only password manager. However, in principle I think this should be disabled completely for every users’ security. Again, I’m totally open to others’ thoughts.
      • A:
        • hwsamuel
          • Your Bitwarden Vault hopefully already has two-step login using some other method. (ie. do not use the Bitwarden Authenticator to protect your Bitwarden account.) Therefore it is currently protected with a high level of security and, in fact, two-step login.
        • Pulsar
          • I’ve thought about that long time ago and I came to conclusion that if you have 2FA on bitwarden you are just moving the 2FA from directly authenticating to authenticating on 2FA with bitwarden.
          • There is a higher probability of hacking any of your other accounts than bitwarden itself. Although you are theoretically increasing attack surface, as a hacker I would rather attack your direct account rather than bitwarden.
        • B0UNC3R
          • I would store the less sensitive OTP in Bitwarden (e.g., Amazon, random webshops) and use hardware security keys for the more sensitive stuff (e.g., email, banking).
        • slavdok
          • There are 2 concepts:
            • Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
            • Two-Step Authentication (2SA)
          • A lot of times these are used interchangeably. They both offer increased security, but they are not the same. Having your 3rd-party account TOTP seeds stored in Bitwarden, unlocked by the same method as your 3rd-party account password (i.e. unlocked by single master password) downgrades them from 2FA to 2SA. A different factor would be something different than your master password. That’s why it’s called 2-factor.
          • A factor is not “another password”. A factor is one of:
            • Something you know (a password, a TOTP seed)
            • Something you have (a security key, a phone/device with TOTP seeds)
            • Something you are (biometrics)
          • You see above how storing 3rd-party passwords and 3rd-party TOTP seeds together (in password manager) makes it “same factor”, unlocked by the same method: something you know, i.e. the 1st-party master password. [But what about 1st-party 2FA? I will get to that later]
          • But is it a bad thing? Not always. That depends on your threat profile.
        • slavdok
          • But, what if you had Fingerprint (something you are) or PIN (something you know) on BW app? Well, that’s a 2nd factor. So now, if someone steals your phone (something you have), which would give them access to unlocked Authy, or SMS TOTP codes, for that matter, they still don’t have your BW MP (something you know) or PIN (something you know) or Fingerprint (something you are). They can steal the phone, marvel at the TOTP codes changing on the screen all day long, and they still cannot access your vault without the 2nd factor.
        • Ben86
          • I think we can all agree that using a separate TOTP app on a separate device is more secure.
          • The purpose of TOTP isn’t to protect against these Hollywood fantasy attacks, it’s to compensate for weak passwords or buy time for password leaks, not your computer getting hacked. Storing TOTP in BW still delivers on this.
        • Carlos
          • I use an external app as a 2FA for my bitwarden account so even if someone managed to steal my bitwarden credentials, they would still need a 2FA to gain access.
        • icefyre
          • If you have a secondary authentication app that requires biometrics for access which is different than Bitwarden (and maybe even on a different device, for example an app on your phone rather than on your PC) you will have introduced yet another layer of security and difficulty for the attacker to access those particularly sensitive accounts.
          • The main argument I would say in favor of storing TOTP code in Bitwarden is convenience.
          • If you are less likely to use MFA due to the inconvenience of using authenticator apps and Bitwarden would make you use it more then you should probably use this feature (e.g. people with lower risk tolerance or family members with less technical proclivities).
          • Otherwise, separating the authenticator app from the password manager would add an extra layer of security and it probably the right way to go.
    • Where do you store your 2FA backup codes? | Reddit
      • Q:
        • Imagine this scenario: Your house burns down and you lose your phone and the printed backup codes with it, locking you out of your account.  
        • Should i store my backup codes elsewhere or is there any other approach for this? Or am i just overthinking this?
      • A:
        • atoponce
          • Key points
            1. You should not use Bitwarden for your 2FA. Use a mobile app that supports backups (Aegis, andOTP, etc (not Google Authenticator)).
            2. 2FA TOTP backup codes should be stored in a separate password manager, like KeePass, etc..
            3. Your TOTP app (Aegis, etc) and TOTP backup codes (KeePass, etc) should be backed up to at least two locations.
          • Keeping TOTP out of Bitwarden prevents a single point of failure with compromises. If your Bitwarden vault is compromised, you don't want your accounts where 2FA is enabled to be compromised also. Keep TOTP away from your main password manager.
          • The backup codes service providers give you when you enable 2FA should be saved, in case you lose your device where you're managing TOTP. Again, don't put them in Bitwarden. Put them in a second password manager like KeePass or KeePassXC, for the same reason. That means you have:
            • Bitwarden: Managing account passwords
            • Aegis/andOTP: Managing TOTP codes
            • KeePass: Managing 2FA backup code
          • All of these support backups. So take advantage of that! Export your Bitwarden vault, export your Aegis/andOTP entries, and copy your KeePass vault. A backup is not a backup if you only have one copy! So put them in multiple places.
          • ........and more.....
    • What do you do to keep from being locked out because of 2FA? | Reddit
      • I’m curious what everyone does so that they don’t lose access to their 2FA and/or account? For example, you lost everything due to a fire and the firefighter drags your unconscious body out how would you get back in your account? (A little dramatic but you get my point).
      • Second Bitwarden account.
    • Should Secure Notes be used to store 2FA backup codes? | Reddit
      • Q:
        • Just wondering what the use case for Secure Notes is and realized one thing I never know how to store are 2FA backup codes.
      • A:
        • The way I see it: If you use BW´s 2fa feature, you might as well save the backup codes of the respective services within BW. Because after all, the only way for me to get to your backup codes is to get full on access to your BW vault, where I also had the 2FA for the stored services so I wouldn´t even need the backup.
        • As for the actual location within the vault: I also used the secure notes at first. But I quickly came to realize that it is more logical to store them in a "hidden" field within the actual entry for the respective service.
    • Not Bitwardern
      • Best way to store 2FA backup codes | Reddit
        • Q:
          • When I enable 2-factor authentication, some websites (like Google, Github, etc.) offer a few backup codes which I can use to login in case I lose access to my phone/2FA app.
          • Earlier I used to store these in my password manager itself. However, I just realised that having the backup codes along with my passwords defeats the purpose of 2FA as anyone having access to my password manager now also has my 2FA codes.
          • So just wanted to know what strategy other people use or what is the best way to store these codes.
        • A:
          • There are a number of methods, each have its Pros and Cons.
            1. Storing it in the cloud
            2. Storing in a second 2FA service
            3. Storing it offline in a thumb drive
            4. Add a second device (ie 2 x YubiKeys)
            5. Paper
          • I know the OP is talking about backup codes! However, for 2FA codes themselves I like the Yubico Authenticator - Yubikey as I get the ease of access of an Authenticator but the codes are stored on the Yubikey so nothing in the app until I refresh the nfc!
      • Should you store your 2FA/TOTP tokens in your password manager? | James Cridland - radio futurologist - Wouldn’t storing your two-step verification codes in the same place as your passwords be the stupidest thing imaginable?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Misc

Published in Web Security
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