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Hands-on Learning in the Classroom: Durability by Design
In today’s classrooms, it’s important to not just know how to use technology, but also more about how it’s made. To address this, Intel® Skills for Innovation (SFI) Starter Packs seek to bring real-world problem-solving into the learning experience, and encourage students to explore engineering concepts through hands-on activities. The Durability by Design module challenges students to think critically about device durability by designing, testing, and using rugged laptop features.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NakbvWAA8oY
Exploring Ruggedized Designs
Laptops in educational settings need to withstand daily wear and tear, making durability a key consideration in device design. This starter pack starts by introducing students to ruggedization techniques strategically adopted into the designs of laptops and cell phones, including:
* Reinforced structures to absorb shocks from falls and prevent breakage
* Durable materials to protect against physical damage
* Innovative features that protect components and ensure reliable performance
Students will probe deeper into these features, learning more about how they keep devices protected even in tough classroom environments.
Hands-on Learning: Designing for Durability
The Durability by Design starter pack then takes students beyond theory, immersing them in the engineering design process. Throughout the module, they will:
* Research and Sketch Durable Features: Students analyze real-world laptop durability and brainstorm ideas for improving device resilience.
* Create a 3D Model in Autodesk Fusion 360: Using industry-standard design software, students construct a 3D model of a ruggedized laptop, integrating durability-focused features.
* Simulate Drop Tests and Optimize Their Designs: Students run virtual durability tests, analyzing how their model withstands impact. They then refine their designs based on test results, mirroring the real-world product development cycle.
Classroom Impact
Through this hands-on approach, students develop essential STEM skills, including:
* Problem-solving: Identifying durability challenges and engineering solutions.
* Critical thinking: Assessing the effectiveness of different ruggedization features.
* Design thinking: Iterating on their laptop models to improve durability.
This starter pack gives students a glimpse into how engineers create technology that lasts, while strengthening their technical and creative skills.
Conclusion
With the Durability by Design starter pack, educators are able to seamlessly integrate engineering-based learning into their curriculum while helping students think like engineers, exploring the real-world challenges of product design and durability.
Ready to bring hands-on learning to your classroom? Discover more Intel SFI Starter Packs and start innovating in the classroom today.
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How to Hide Files and Folders on a Windows 11 Computer
Knowing how to hide files and folders on Windows 11 is crucial for maintaining privacy, organizing sensitive information, and keeping your important data away from unauthorized users. In this article, we'll guide you step-by-step on how to hide files on Windows 11, how to view hidden Windows files, and how to ensure your files stay discreetly out of sight.
How to hide files on Windows 11
Windows 11 provides built-in methods to hide files and folders easily, ensuring your sensitive or private documents remain out of plain sight. This feature helps maintain privacy, especially on shared computers or when you want to prevent accidental file deletion or modification.
Using File Explorer to hide files and folders
File Explorer is the quickest way to hide files and folders on your Windows 11 computer. It requires no additional software and can be executed with just a few clicks:
* Open File Explorer: Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
* Locate the file or folder: Navigate to the file or folder you wish to hide.
* Access properties: Right-click the file or folder and select Properties from the context menu.
* Set as Hidden: In the General tab, under the Attributes section, check the box labeled Hidden.
* Confirm changes: Click Apply and then OK to hide the selected file or folder.
Your selected file or folder will now be hidden from the default view, helping ensure your privacy.
How to view hidden Windows files
There might be instances where you need to access or modify files you previously hid. Fortunately, Windows 11 makes it simple to view hidden files whenever you need to.
Steps to see hidden files in Windows
To temporarily reveal files or folders you have hidden:
* Open File Explorer: Press Windows + E to launch File Explorer.
* Select the View tab: Click the View dropdown menu on the toolbar.
* Show hidden items: Hover over Show and select Hidden items from the dropdown menu.
Hidden files and folders will now appear with semi-transparent icons, indicating they were previously hidden.
Advanced method: hide files using Command Prompt
If you're comfortable using the Command Prompt, this method provides an efficient alternative to hiding files. This is particularly useful for advanced users who prefer command-line interactions.
* Open Command Prompt: Press Windows + S, type Command Prompt, right-click on the app, and select Run as administrator.
* Navigate to the file location: Use the cd command to navigate to the directory containing your file or folder.
* Enter hide command: Type the following command and press Enter:
attrib +h +s +r "filename.ext"
Replace filename.ext with the name of your file or folder.
To reverse this and unhide files, you simply run:
attrib -h -s -r "filename.ext"
How to hide files in Windows 11 securely using encryption
For files that require an extra layer of protection beyond merely hiding them visually, encryption is highly recommended. Encrypting your files makes them unreadable without the correct Windows user account credentials, significantly enhancing security.
* Right-click the file or folder you wish to encrypt.
* Choose Properties, then click the Advanced button.
* Check Encrypt contents to secure data.
* Click OK, then Apply, and confirm by clicking OK again.
If the option to Encrypt contents to secure data is unavailable (meaning it’s grayed out and you’re unable to check the box), encryption may not be enabled or available on your device. If that’s the case, read this guide to learn how:
Enable encryption in Windows 11
To enable file encryption if the encryption option is unavailable:
* Open Settings: Press Windows + I to open Settings.
* Navigate to Privacy & security > Device encryption.
* If device encryption is available, toggle it on by clicking Turn on.
* Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the encryption setup.
Once enabled, you should now be able to encrypt your individual files and folders.
Encrypted files are securely locked and provide robust protection against unauthorized access.
Tips to manage hidden files securely
* Regularly review and organize hidden files to maintain system efficiency.
* Combine hiding files with encryption for sensitive or critical data.
* Always remember your encryption password or securely back up your encryption key to avoid permanent data loss.
Conclusion
Effectively managing file visibility on Windows 11 is essential for maintaining privacy and security. Whether you choose the straightforward File Explorer method, the command-line approach, or robust encryption, Windows 11 offers versatile tools tailored to various privacy needs. Understanding how to hide files, view hidden Windows files, and securely encrypt your data ensures you can confidently protect and manage your important information.
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Why CPU Intensive Games are Starting to Become More Prevalent
Gaming on PC has long been synonymous with high-end graphics and smooth visuals, traditionally placing the graphics processing unit (GPU) at the forefront of hardware considerations. The GPU's ability to render complex environments, realistic textures, and detailed effects has typically defined the quality of the gaming experience. However, a significant shift is occurring—today's games are increasingly demanding more from the central processing unit (CPU).
While CPUs have always played a vital role in gaming, managing physics simulations, AI behavior, and overall game logic, their importance is rapidly rising. Modern games, especially those emphasizing expansive open worlds, intricate AI interactions, and extensive physics calculations, now heavily rely on powerful CPUs to ensure optimal performance. This evolution marks a new era where balancing both GPU and CPU performance is becoming critical for achieving the best possible gaming experience.
GPU in gaming
Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) have traditionally been the cornerstone of PC gaming hardware. Responsible primarily for rendering visuals—textures, lighting, shadows, and intricate graphical effects—the GPU significantly influences frame rates and graphical fidelity. Advanced GPUs allow for features such as ray tracing, ultra-high resolutions, and high refresh rate gaming, directly enhancing visual immersion and overall gaming experience. Games with detailed graphics (Cyberbunk 2077), demanding visual effects, and expansive environments typically require powerful GPUs to deliver the desired smoothness and quality.
CPUs in gaming
While the GPU's role has always been prominent, CPUs are increasingly becoming vital due to the evolving complexity of modern games. The Central Processing Unit (CPU) manages tasks like physics simulations, NPC artificial intelligence (AI), game logic, environmental interactions, and network communications in multiplayer scenarios. As games introduce more sophisticated mechanics—dynamic weather systems, lifelike AI behaviors, realistic physics-based interactions, and expansive open worlds—the CPU's ability to process these complex, real-time computations efficiently has become crucial. Consequently, CPU-intensive games are gaining prevalence, placing higher importance on processor performance.
CPU and GPU relationship in gaming
CPU and GPU work in tandem, each contributing to different but complementary aspects of performance. The GPU focuses on rendering visual output and graphical fidelity, while the CPU supports this by feeding it essential data, performing calculations, and handling core gameplay mechanics. Optimal gaming performance increasingly relies on a balanced interplay between the GPU and CPU. An imbalance between these components often results in performance bottlenecks. For example, pairing a high-end GPU like an RTX 5090 with a significantly weaker CPU (Intel Ultra 5 and below) may cause the GPU to underperform, as the CPU cannot feed it data quickly enough, leading to lower frame rates and diminished gaming quality.
CPU vs GPU
* CPU (Central Processing Unit):* Processes sequential tasks and calculations.
* Manages game logic, physics, artificial intelligence (AI), and multiplayer network tasks.
* Crucial for games featuring complex AI and detailed physics simulations.
* Increasingly vital due to growing complexity in modern games.
* GPU (Graphics Processing Unit):* Handles parallel tasks primarily focused on rendering graphics.
* Responsible for visual details like textures, lighting, and shadows.
* Essential for visually demanding games and maintaining high frame rates.
* Traditionally viewed as the key component for gaming performance.
Why CPU-intensive games will be more prevalent in the future
CPU-intensive games are likely to become more prevalent due to evolving player demands for richer, more dynamic gaming experiences that GPUs alone cannot fully deliver. Recent titles like Dragon's Dogma 2 have shown significant performance issues tied directly to CPU limitations, particularly due to complex NPC simulations and advanced AI pathfinding. Even high-end CPUs (at the time of the game’s release), such as the Intel Core i9-14900K, experience noticeable frame rate drops when managing dense, interactive environments.
Additionally, games like Dwarf Fortress and the Total War series exemplify how extensive world simulations, detailed environmental interactions, and sophisticated AI behaviors necessitate powerful CPUs. These games are renowned for pushing CPUs to their limits, emphasizing real-time calculations and logic processing rather than purely visual fidelity.
Generative AI is set to transform gaming by introducing characters driven by advanced AI models capable of dynamic, realistic dialogue and behaviors. As characters become increasingly lifelike, simulating believable interactions and habits, CPUs will bear the brunt of these demanding computations. Coupled with an emphasis on realistic physics engines that require significant real-time calculations, the role of CPUs will inevitably expand, solidifying their importance in delivering next-generation gaming experiences.
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Best Note-Taking Apps to Use in 2025
If you have ever been caught short on the go without a notepad and pen, a note-taking app could be for you. Note-taking apps let users jot down information or create to-do lists in a digital format, helping to keep important ideas in one place. These apps also include features such as folders and tags, ensuring maximum functionality and convenience. Here are our top picks of the best note-taking apps for 2025.
1. Obsidian
Obsidian is a free note-taking app with optional add-on services. It stores information privately and uses open file formats so data always belongs to the user. Notes made on the app are also accessible offline, meaning users can refer to them even with a dodgy internet connection. Moreover, users can create connections between notes by adding links to certain words or phrases, essentially creating a personal Wikipedia entry with customized information. Graphs help map out notes visually, while plug-ins like the calendar or Kanban help users create their own workflow. Obsidian is available for download on Windows, Mac, and Linux devices, as well as iOS and Android.
2. Notion
Notion is a collaborative workspace for ideas and projects. Trusted by companies like Toyota, Notion lets teams offer feedback and comment on documents. Users can store their projects, goals, calendars, and roadmaps in a single app, offering a convenient, streamlined approach to note-taking. In addition, Notion AI integrates seamlessly into workspaces and is on guard to assist with brainstorming, writing, and locating files. Sign up to Notion for free or purchase one of the budget-friendly paid options on their website.
3. Joplin
Joplin is an open-source note-taking app that lets users securely access their notes from any device. Users can share and collaborate on notes and documents with friends and colleagues with Joplin Cloud. The app offers many customized features, and users can even upload videos, PDFs, and audio files to their notes, or create math expressions directly from the app. Notes created on Joplin are saved to an open format, meaning users will always have access to them. It also uses End-To-End Encryption so that notes are private between designated users. Joplin is available for download on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
4. Standard Notes
Standard Notes is a free and secure note-taking application that protects digital notes with End-To-End Encryption. Users can safely store rich text documents, code snippets, passwords, and to-do lists in one place, and rest assured only they have the keys required to decrypt data. Enhanced privacy controls also protect against hacks and data breaches, while automated backups ensure that data is safe even if a device is lost or stolen. Standard Notes recently merged with Proton, an email and cloud storage provider that puts user privacy first. The app is available for free, and subscription options are available.
5. OneNote
Powered by Microsoft, OneNote is a cross-functional notebook designed to boost productivity. OneNote lets users write or sketch their ideas just like they would with a notebook and pen, while voice transcription easily captures notes for maximum efficiency. The app is also handy for teachers to build and organize lesson plans in a searchable digital format and content library. Aspiring OneNote users can download this handy note-taking app via the OneNote website.
6. Evernote
Evernote is a great note-taking companion, offering everything needed for planning and streamlining daily life and work projects. Users can sort their notes into a system of notebooks or store them separately depending on their work style. To locate documents, users can search for keywords, even if they appear in photos, whiteboard scans, or business cards. Moreover, users can link meeting notes to calendar events, add reminders to to-do lists, and keep on top of assignments. Evernote is available for free or for a paid monthly subscription.
7. Logseq
Logseq is an open-source note-taking and collaboration platform that focuses on organizing information. The app helps users structure and connect their thoughts, memorize facts using the Flashcards feature, and create a clear daily plan. Data stored on Logseq is wholly owned by users, making it a safe place for users to store their questions, ideas, favorite quotes, and reminders. Moreover, notes are always backed up and securely available in real-time with encrypted file syncing. Check out more Logseq features and download the app for free on their website.
8. Amplenote
Amplenote is a note-taking app that offers four main modes, namely Jots, Notes, Tasks, and Calendar, to bring ideas to life. Users can use the app to log daily activities, capture web content, and oversee their best ideas with the Quick Task Bar. The app is designed to minimize distractions and lets users search previous content and revisit old ideas. Amplenote is available on iOS, Android, or as a desktop app.
Boost productivity with note-taking apps
Most people have a note-taking system to help them streamline their thoughts and tasks. In this digital age, note-taking apps are a popular way to jot down information and keep everything together. Here, we have introduced eight of the best note-taking apps available to help you stop scribbling your to-do list on the back of your hand and bring some structure to your notes.
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How to Block Websites on a Chromebook
Chromebooks are fast, affordable, secure, and easy to use laptops that we’ve grown to love. Packed with innovative features and built-in virus protection, Chromebooks run Google’s very own operating system: ChromeOS. The simplicity and user-friendly nature of ChromeOS make it a perfect choice for a wide range of users, including children, college students, professionals, and the elderly. Every Chromebook provides accessibility, convenience and the world of opportunity that the internet offers.
While there’s no denying that the internet has massively contributed to the spread of information and education, there are two sides to every coin. There are many websites that you may not want your children or those in your care to access. In this article we’ll cover the reasons you might want to block certain websites, as well as how to block a website on your Chromebook using Parental Control. Finally, we’ll discuss how to blacklist websites that you don’t want little Timmy accessing, as well as methods to un-blacklist sites.
Reasons for blocking a website
Believe it or not, there are around 1.1 billion websites on the internet, but surprisingly only around 200 million of these are actively maintained and visited. Among these 200 million websites, there are some that are best avoided in order to protect your privacy, security, personal well-being, and of course, your productivity. Let’s consider a few common reasons that you may add a URL to your website blacklist:
Child protection: Way back in 2021, 93% of 3 to 18-year-olds in America had home internet access, with 87% of American teens between 13 and 17 reporting access to a desktop or laptop device. By preventing access to inappropriate or harmful content, children can enjoy a safer browsing experience. Various websites feature adult content, violence, misinformation, and even nefarious individuals who may harm young users. Blocking inappropriate websites that pose a risk to our children contributes to a safer, healthier digital environment.
Reducing screen time: Many Chromebook users already keep tabs on their children’s screen time via the Family Link app. Alas, some websites are designed to be addictive and keep you scrolling. Too much screen time can lead to all sorts of issues ranging from increased stress to insomnia, reduced productivity, and even eye strain. Blocking certain social media, streaming, gaming, and gambling websites can contribute to healthier, more balanced online habits, and overall well being.
Productivity boost: It’s no secret that social media, gaming, shopping, and other distracting websites can quickly eat up your school or workday. If you’re an employer, this may well be something you’re already familiar with. Employees wasting time on websites unrelated to work can really reduce efficiency, leading to lower productivity and missed deadlines. Block offending websites and your students or employees are bound to excel in a focused work or study environment.
Security enhancement: While some websites are designed to keep you scrolling, other malicious websites are designed to simply steal your data, to even install malware on your device on the sly. While Chromebooks are mostly virus free, avoiding websites that may pose a security risk helps to prevent malware, viruses, and phishing scams. By blocking websites that are known threats, you reduce your cybersecurity risks and keep important data secure.
How to turn on Parental Control on a Chromebook
If you’ve got children, then taking the step of turning on Parental control on your (or your kid’s) Chromebook is a decent start to creating a safer online environment. It’s a wise idea to first set up child accounts for the young Chromebook users in your family. After you’ve set them up with an account, setting up Parental Control on your Chromebook is a breeze. To block websites on a Chromebook, simply:
* Open the Family Link app
* Select your child
* Tap Controls, navigate to Google Chrome and Web.
* Choose the setting that’s right for your family:
* Allow all sites: Your child can visit all sites, except the ones you manually block (more on that later)
* Try to block explicit sites: Alas, no filter is perfect, but this approach should help to hide 18+ sexually explicit sites
* Only allow approved sites: Your child can only visit the sites you allow
How to blacklist a website on Chrome
The Chromebook website blocker approach outlined above generally covers the bases for adult and inappropriate content. That said, if there are specific “problem" websites that you want to stop your child accessing, you need to manually enter the websites to stop access. Do this by following these steps:
* Open the Family Link app
* Select your child
* Tap Controls, navigate to Google Chrome and Web
* Under Manage sites, click Approved sites and Blocked sites
* Select Add a website
* Add a website, like www.badsite.com or simply the domain, like badsite.
* Websites: Include the www. portion of the URL, like www.badsite.com instead of google.com.
* If you block or allow a specific website, the permission doesn't apply to sites that begin or end differently, like www.badsite.co.uk or photos.badsite.com.
* Domains: If you block or allow an entire domain, the permission also applies to sites that begin or end differently, like www.badsite.com and images.badsite.fr.
To un-blacklist a site for a child’s account, just follow the above steps until you reach the Manage sites section, then remove the blacklisted site from the Blocked site list. If there’s a website that your child has used but you’ve decided to block to help them focus on studies, then they can actually ask your permission to visit it by choosing:
* Ask in person: Adult users can review the request from their children’s device, and approve or deny it with your Google Account password.
* Ask in a message: You’ll get a notification in the Family Link app where you can approve or deny their request to access the blocked website.
Final thoughts on website blocking
We hope you’ve enjoyed today’s informative adventure into the world of blocking websites on Chromebooks. As Chromebook and Chromebook Plus technology continues to advance, new methods to block and unblock websites on ChromeOS devices will emerge. Check back with the Google support page for the latest information to ensure that you and your family stay safe online.
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Secret Palico Gear in Monster Hunter Wilds: How to Unlock These Hidden Armor & Weapon Sets
Palicoes have been loyal companions throughout the Monster Hunter series, and in Monster Hunter Wilds, they’re more customizable and useful than ever. Whether they’re helping you gather items, set traps, or deal extra damage, keeping your Palico geared is essential. But while some armor sets offer impressive stats and abilities, many of the secret Palico gear options in this guide are more about style than substance.
These rare and hidden sets are often better suited for collectors or players looking to give their Palico a unique aesthetic flair. Still, they’re fun to unlock and great for casual play, especially if you’re a completionist or just love having a stylish sidekick. Below is a breakdown of the hidden Palico armor-and-weapon combos you can unlock, along with the materials and methods required to get them.
1. Athos Gear Set
Key Material: Hunter Symbol III
How to Obtain: Rewarded for defeating Tempered Apex Monsters in Tier 7+ quests.
The Athos set turns your Palico into a battle-hardened miniature knight. Inspired by elite Guild Ace armor, this set features sleek plating, a regal cape, and a blade that gleams with authority. While its abilities are nothing groundbreaking, the aesthetic alone makes it a trophy-worthy set for hunters who've tackled the toughest endgame content.
2. Felyne Deathgear Set
Key Material: Sinister Cloth
How to Obtain: Complete material retrieval quests in Kunafa, or trade with Kilama (Great Windward Aloe) or Gawdygog (Ancient Wyvern Coins).
Cloaked in tattered rags and built for the shadows, the Deathgear set transforms your Palico into a grim little reaper. The weapon and armor exude eerie energy, and while the stats lean toward niche support roles, this set is perfect for spooky season vibes—or just making your Palico look fearsome.
3. Felyne Sild Set
Key Material: Sild Cotton
How to Obtain: Trade with Sild traders such as Ren (Mature Wyveria Lanterns, Genesis Opal, or Fossilized Fire Opal), or Gawdygog (Ancient Wyvern Coins).
The Sild set wraps your Palico in a pillowy, marshmallow-like jacket, giving it a soft and overstuffed look. Its charming puffiness makes it a favorite among players who want their Palico to look cozy and carefree, even in the middle of battle.
4. Felyne Suja Set
Key Material: Suja Textiles
How to Obtain: Trade with Suja villagers like Sekka (Dragonscale Vase) or Gawdygog (Ancient Wyvern Coins). Vases can be found on Ancient Relics in the Ruins of Wyveria.
Whimsical and unique, the Suja set features a small frog perched proudly atop the Palico’s head as the helm. The body armor is a simple vest, creating a playful yet traditional look that adds a touch of humor and regional flavor to your Palico’s wardrobe.
5. Felyne Azuz Set
Key Material: Azuz Tanned Leather
How to Obtain: Trade with Azuz traders such as Dogard (Fine Antimite Ore), Yabran (Wylk Gems), or Gawdygog (Ancient Wyvern Coins).
The Azuz set outfits your Palico in metallic armor with a distinct Mayan or Incan-inspired aesthetic. Its rigid design and floating posture make your companion look more like an ancient guardian statue than a typical feline fighter—truly a standout look.
6. Felyne Kunafa Set
Key Material: Dalthydon Wool
How to Obtain: Trade with Kunafa villagers like Kilama (Windward Aloe) or Gawdygog (Ancient Wyvern Coins). Aloe can be gathered in Windward Plains; coins can be farmed in Scarlet Forest Area 8.
Sleek and stealthy, the Kunafa set gives your Palico the look of a desert-dwelling sand ninja. The fabric is light and tactical, with subtle wrappings and gear that suggest speed and precision—perfect for players who want their Palico to look cool, calm, and capable.
Conclusion
With a little patience and the right materials, these secret Palico sets offer some of the most creative designs in Monster Hunter Wilds. While they may not replace your endgame loadout, they’re a great way to show off your style and make your hunts a bit more fun. Hopefully, as time goes on, Capcom will introduce even more Palico gear through special events and updates—because honestly, we can never have too many adorable (or deadly-looking) cats in battle.
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Coolest Palico Designs in Monster Hunter Wilds (With Design Codes)
One of the most delightful features in Monster Hunter Wilds is the ability to fully customize your Palico companion. While they’ve always been an iconic part of the series, the new design tools allow for an unprecedented level of creativity—and the community has absolutely run wild with it. From beloved characters in pop culture to animals, mythical beings, and folklore-inspired creatures, players have been sharing their unique Palico creations along with the design codes you can use to bring them into your own game. Whether you're looking to hunt in style or just want a companion that reflects your personality, these fan-made designs are worth checking out.
1. Stitch – 9E3PT8HK3TK8
This adorable Palico captures the chaotic charm of Stitch, the mischievous alien from Disney’s Lilo & Stitch. With his iconic blue fur, big ears, and playful energy, this design is perfect for hunters who want a companion that’s equal parts cute and wild. Just don’t let him near any space tech—or your gear.
2. Kurama – 7W8MB7YM6CB9
Channel the power of the Nine-Tails with this fearsome Palico inspired by Kurama, the 9 tailed beast in Naruto. Its fiery orange fur, intense eyes, and beast-like features bring the legendary creature to life in miniature form. Ideal for ninja-themed builds or anyone wanting to hunt with serious chakra vibes.
3. Skeleton – 6M6V74R88HL7
Creepy, cute, and perfect for spooky hunts, the Skeleton Palico is a hauntingly stylish companion. With its bone-white markings and eerie charm, this design fits right in during nighttime expeditions or Halloween-themed armor sets. It’s a little piece of the afterlife, tagging along for the ride.
4. Lucario – 9S97D8WH57V6
This Palico brings Pokémon’s Lucario into the world of Monster Hunter Wilds with surprising accuracy. The sleek blue and black fur, upright ears, and sharp gaze mirror the iconic Aura Pokémon’s battle-ready stance. A great pick for fans of fighting types and loyal, disciplined companions.
5. Red Panda – S63VY5349554
Soft, fluffy, and irresistibly charming, this Red Panda Palico brings a dash of nature’s cuteness to your hunt. With its signature striped tail and gentle expression, this design is perfect for players who want a chill and lovable companion by their side. Don’t be fooled by its looks—it’s still got claws when the fight kicks off.
6. Garfield – HV7GA89F5L33
This Palico perfectly captures the lazy, lasagna-loving attitude of Garfield. With his signature orange fur, half-lidded eyes, and smug expression, he’s the ideal companion for hunters who want a sidekick that looks like it’d rather be napping than fighting. Mondays, beware.
7. Happy – RB6LC44K8P78
Straight from Fairy Tail, this cheerful Palico is modeled after Happy, the lovable Exceed companion of Natsu. With his tiny blue wings, round face, and endless optimism, he brings both charm and energy to your hunts. A perfect match for players who value friendship and adventure.
8. Cheshire – XK6PD3C85767
Inspired by the eerie, grinning feline in Alice: Madness Returns, this Palico design is hauntingly cool. With sharp features, glowing eyes, and a mischievous smirk, it oozes a twisted kind of charm. Perfect for gothic or surreal-themed builds.
9. Raccoon – M97JG6867CU3
This Palico recreates the curious and crafty raccoon with spot-on details. Its masked face, fluffy ringed tail, and inquisitive look make it feel right at home in the wild. Whether you're scavenging materials or stealing the spotlight, this little rascal fits the role.
10. Okami – EG74U86P8498
A tribute to Amaterasu from the game Ōkami, this Palico design is nothing short of majestic. White fur, red markings, and a serene but powerful expression make it a striking companion. It's perfect for players who want their hunts to feel a little more divine.
11. Pikachu – RN3FS7B73DFS4
This electrifying Palico brings the world’s most iconic Pokémon into Monster Hunter Wilds. With its bright yellow fur, pointy ears, and red cheeks, it’s instantly recognizable as Pikachu. A fun and nostalgic choice for anyone who grew up with Pokémon or just wants to bring a little shock to the hunt.
12. Panda – 9J6NR44J6TS6
Combining the charm of a panda with the agility of a cat, this Palico is the best of both worlds. With its distinctive black-and-white coloring and round features, it’s irresistibly cute yet capable of pulling its weight in battle. A cozy companion for relaxed but focused hunters.
13. Doraemon – C77AL96D3WJ4
Modeled after the time-traveling robotic cat from the classic anime Doraemon, this Palico design is pure nostalgia. Its rounded face, blue fur, and signature red nose make it instantly recognizable. Great for players who appreciate a touch of retro sci-fi on their adventures.
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Why Gamers Should Regularly Clear Their PC's RAM
Regularly clearing your PC’s RAM (Random Access Memory) is a fundamental yet often overlooked maintenance practice that ensures optimal performance and stability. This guide clearly explains RAM, its relation to your PC, why you should regularly clear RAM, how to clear RAM cache, and its critical role in gaming and everyday computing.
What is RAM?
RAM (Random Access Memory) is short-term memory used by computers to store data actively being used or processed by the CPU. Unlike storage drives (HDDs or SSDs), RAM is volatile memory—meaning it temporarily holds data only while the computer is powered on and clears it upon shutdown.
Currently, the most common RAM types in modern PCs are DDR4 and DDR5:
* DDR4 RAM: Speeds from 2133 MHz to over 3200 MHz, providing efficient power usage and suitable performance for everyday tasks and most games.
* DDR5 RAM: Offers enhanced bandwidth, efficiency, and capacities, with speeds starting around 4800 MHz, ideal for high-performance tasks and intensive gaming.
DDR6 RAM, offering even greater performance boosts, is under development and expected to arrive soon.
What is RAM's relation to your PC?
RAM serves as your CPU’s workspace, temporarily holding data from active programs and system processes. When you open programs, browse online, or multitask, your PC loads data into RAM, allowing rapid CPU access and smooth operation. Therefore, adequate and efficiently managed RAM is crucial for seamless multitasking and swift performance.
Why do we need RAM?
RAM directly impacts your PC’s responsiveness and efficiency. Insufficient RAM forces your computer to rely heavily on virtual memory—a reserved section on your hard drive or SSD—which is significantly slower. This causes noticeable performance issues, including slow load times, lagging, and instability. Regularly clearing RAM prevents these performance hiccups, ensuring your PC operates smoothly.
Importance of regularly clearing RAM
Accumulated data fragments from background processes or inefficiently optimized apps can clutter RAM, reducing its efficiency. Regularly clearing RAM provides several key benefits:
* Frees memory from unnecessary background apps
* Enhances responsiveness and processing speed
* Prevents software conflicts and system crashes
* Improves overall stability
To clear PC RAM, simply restart your computer, manually close unnecessary apps, or use dedicated RAM-cleaning utilities. Regularly performing these steps effectively clears RAM cache and optimizes memory usage.
How RAM impacts regular PC usage
Daily computing activities—like web browsing, video streaming, and productivity tasks—heavily rely on RAM. Adequate RAM ensures smooth application performance, fast multitasking, and minimal interruptions. Conversely, insufficient RAM causes sluggishness, delays, and decreased productivity. Understanding how to clear RAM regularly is essential for maintaining optimal everyday PC performance.
How RAM impacts PC gaming
RAM plays a critical role in gaming, as modern games continually load textures, models, and other assets into memory. Insufficient or cluttered RAM negatively affects gaming experiences, causing:
* Reduced frame rates (FPS)
* Longer load times
* Frequent stutters or freezes
Knowing how to clear RAM cache is especially important for gamers. Regularly clearing RAM before gaming sessions ensures games run smoothly by maximizing available memory. For optimal gaming performance:
* Restart your PC before lengthy gaming sessions
* Minimize background applications
* Consider upgrading to at least 16GB RAM or more
Additional benefits of proper RAM maintenance
Regular RAM maintenance reduces strain on your SSD or HDD, extending your hardware's lifespan by lessening dependence on virtual memory. Additionally, clearing RAM frequently results in smoother multitasking and fewer frustrations during daily tasks.
Conclusion
Regularly clearing your PC’s RAM is essential for maintaining peak performance, stability, and responsiveness. Whether you’re gaming or simply using your PC for everyday tasks, understanding how do you clear RAM and implementing proper RAM management practices will significantly improve your computing experience. For high-performance RAM solutions designed specifically for gaming and intensive workloads, consider exploring Acer Predator Storage.
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What To Do if Your Laptop is Overheating?
If you’re reading this, chances are you’re in the company of an overheating laptop. Perhaps you’re even reading this article on an overheating laptop, if so, welcome -you’re in the right place. First though, may we suggest that you switch to your smartphone or other device to stop your laptop overheating further.
Now that we’ve got that out of the way, today we’ve got the final word on how to stop your laptop from overheating. Whether you’re wondering why your beloved laptop is running a fever, or you simply just want to get to the heart of the matter and cool it off, read on to discover the dangers and causes of overheating, as well as a range of fixes, from simple DIY hacks to thermal pasting!
Danger in the device: bottle the throttle
Many dangers may lurk in an overheating laptop. Excessive heat, that is anything around 80-90°C (176-194°F) can begin to cause issues, but sustained temps above 90°C (194°F) can actually start to degrade internal components: the CPU, GPU and battery can all be irrevocably damaged, shortening their lifespan.
If your laptop hits a critical temp, it may well engage thermal throttling, reducing CPU performance to stop overheating, potentially leading to lags and crashes, or even automatically shutting down. Unchecked, overheating may even lead to battery swelling and fire hazard, along with corrupting data and reducing overall device efficiency.
Why is my laptop overheating?
There are several common causes behind an overheating device:
* Dust buildup: Dust is a fact of life, and over time fans and vents get caked with the stuff, preventing proper airflow, leading to laptop overheating.
* Poor ventilation: Although it might be convenient to use your laptop on couches, beds and other soft surfaces, these can block vents and trap heat.
* Heavy use: If you’re pushing your laptop with demanding programs such as games, multiple apps, and video editing software, these may cause laptop CPU overheating.
* Dry or old thermal paste: You’ve likely never seen the paint job keeping your laptop cool: thermal paste transfers heat from the processor to the cooling system. As it dries out and ages, it loses effectiveness, reducing heat dissipation.
* Faulty fans: If your cooling fans aren’t running right, or if they fail then they can't expel the hot air, leading to overheating.
How to fix an overheating laptop
Now that we’ve covered what may be causing the unwelcome laptop sizzle, let’s handle the bizzle and find some fixes. To start with, here’s a few simple fixes to try before getting the screwdrivers out:
* The good old turn it off and wait: If your laptop is overheating, simply pause usage, shut down your device and give it some time to cool down before continuing.
* Ensure proper heat dissipation: As we mentioned above, using your laptop on cloth surfaces like sofas and beds generates extra heat. For proper heat dissipation, only use your laptop on a hard, flat surface.
* Cooling pads: Lizards and other reptiles require heating pads to thrive, but your overheating laptop needs a cooling pad. There are several types of cooling pads available, from stands, to fans, and even heatsinks, so do your research and choose the right pad for your device.
If you’ve tried these fixes, but no dice, then perhaps it's time to attempt these two moderate level fixes:
* Clear your vents: Dust accumulates around vents blocking the airflow and causing overheating. Remove the dust and hey presto, no overheating. If you’re confident in your abilities, a can of compressed air can work wonders in ridding your device of dust. More advanced/adventurous users may go one step further and open up their laptop to clean the dust out with a soft brush or cloth.
* Update your OS and BIOS: Hopefully you do this anyway, but regularly updating your OS (operating system) and BIOS (basic input/output system) are both essential steps to ensuring the security and stability of your laptop. Updating ensures efficiency improvements and driver updates, as well as thermal management adjustments and hardware compatibility. Combined, these optimize system performance and reduce strain on the hardware, reducing heat generation.
Finally in our fandango of fixes, there are two advanced solutions for which you’ll most likely want to seek out professional help:
* Replace the paste: Thermal paste loses efficacy over time, and like a house, or boat, sometimes a fresh coat of paint can imbue your device with a new lust for life. Even if you’re a dab hand with a paint brush, this is a task best handed over to professionals, so seek out a certified repair technician, or your laptop manufacturer’s authorized service center for help.
* Warranty: When purchasing a new laptop, a decent warranty may not be the first thing you look for. Don’t let snazzy AI augmentations, GPU and SSD specs sideline you: a wholesome warranty is crucial! Acer laptops come with one to two year limited warranties, with extended service plan options available for online purchases.
Final words: preventing overheating
After reading the above, you’re already a sultan of solutions when it comes to fixing an overheating laptop. But how about avoiding the dreaded overheat in the first place? Regularly cleaning your laptop and keeping the dust to a minimum you’ll be able to ***** the issue in the bud before your vents are caked in dust. Another smart way to keep track of your laptop’s internal temps is by using apps such as HWiNFO, that way you’ll know the second the temp starts to rise. Finally, cooling pads are a reliable, low cost way to keep the temps within an acceptable range.
We hope you’ve enjoyed discovering how to fix an overheating laptop with us today. Try these fixes for yourself and see which of them works for your device. If in doubt, remember to consult a certified repair technician, or your laptop manufacturer’s authorized service center for help.
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How to Fix a Broken Webcam or Camera on Your Laptop
Laptop webcams are a handy feature for video calls and online meetings. They open a window to the world and allow others to see us in real-time, but they can sometimes malfunction. In this article, we highlight some common issues that cause a broken laptop camera and offer suggestions on what to do if your laptop camera is not working.
Common causes of a faulty webcam
Webcam issues can be frustrating, particularly if you are planning a meeting, interview, or other web-based appointment. Here are some possible reasons why your webcam is playing up.
1. Software issues
Software issues can impact the workability of external and built-in webcams. This can be due to driver conflicts or outdated software. Although device drivers are usually automatically updated when a laptop detects accessories like a webcam, the software can still be incompatible and cause problems.
2. Hardware problems
Hardware problems can also be caused by physical damage like bumps or cracks, so be sure to treat the webcam with utmost care. Other hardware issues may be because of dust, water, or moisture getting into crevices, causing damage or obstructions. If the camera is physically fine, consider that faulty wires or loose connections can also impact webcams and cause them to stop working.
3. Privacy settings and security software interference
External webcams may require additional access to work properly, meaning users may need to grant permission for the laptop to recognize the webcam. Moreover, some security or antivirus software may block webcams or unknown hardware to protect the device from viruses.
4. Malware or system corruption
Unfortunately, some cybercriminals operate by gaining access to device webcams. Malware can block, delete, or damage system files and cause webcam issues. Moreover, webcam drivers may also be corrupted and malfunction.
How to fix webcam issues
There are a few ways to fix these common webcam issues if it is not working as expected.
1. Basic checks
Conducting basic checks is often enough to rectify common webcam issues. First, open the Device Manager (Windows key + X, then select Device Manager) and expand ‘Cameras’ to check whether or not your webcam is listed and enabled. If the webcam is enabled but still not functioning properly, try disabling and enabling it to see if that triggers the operating system to recognize the device.
2. Software fixes
Updating drivers can also straighten out any webcam issues. Open the Device Manager and find your webcam, then right-click and see if there are any updates available. If this does not work but you still suspect a software issue, try downloading the driver installation package from the webcam provider’s website. Additionally, now is a great time to check your antivirus software to see if it is somehow blocking the webcam.
3. Quick hardware tips
Alongside these basic checks and software fixes, you can try checking the camera for any obvious damage or cracks. Cleaning the lens with a clean, dry cloth may also be enough to get the webcam working again.
What if the laptop camera is still not working?
These solutions will hopefully resolve webcam issues, but what can you do if it still doesn’t work?
1. Buy an external webcam
External webcams connect to devices via the USB port. They operate similarly to built-in webcams but let users choose a higher resolution or better image quality. Unlike built-in webcams, which are fixed into a laptop, external webcams can be placed anywhere in a room for a wider view. External webcams are available online or in local electronics stores.
2. Utilize the Acer Warranty
Acer laptop users experiencing webcam issues can check if their device is still covered by warranty. If the standard warranty is nearing its end, users can consider purchasing the Acer Care extended warranty to cover unexpected issues. Purchase options are available on the Acer website.
Final thoughts
Although not imperative for a laptop to function, webcams are an important feature for web-based video calls and meetings. Occasionally, webcams may malfunction due to soft- or hardware issues, damage, or malware. In this article, we have explored some common issues impacting webcams and considered how these may be resolved.
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April 7
