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Windows Optimization Tips
USB and USB 2.0
•
Use the best ports on your computer for audio or video devices. If you have a
desktop or a tower, be sure to connect your audio interface to a USB port that is on
the back of the computer. Generally, ports on the front of the computer, on the
monitor, or keyboard don't perform as well as those on the back. This can help
prevent noise, dropouts and connection issues.
•
If you use hubs, use powered hubs. If you have to use a USB Hub to connect your
device, use a hub that has its own AC power adapter.
•
If necessary, upgrade to a premium USB cable. If you live in an area that has a
high degree of radio or electrical interference, and you experience noise or hum
when using USB audio, upgrade your USB cable to a premium cable with extra
shielding and a Ferrite Bead (a cylindrical bump on one end of the cable) which can
filter out some external noise.
Windows XP
1. Make sure your Windows installation is up-to-date. Keep in mind that the latest
audio device drivers, and the latest recording software are designed on the most
current version of XP. If your computer isn't up to date, it's performance will likely
suffer. Go to
take a few visits to the site to get all the fixes to the updates (install updates and then
do the Windows Update scan again).
2. Minimize Programs running in the background. The icons at the bottom-right of
the screen, next to the clock (mostly) represent programs that are running in the
background. This will include virus protection spy-ware protection etc. While
recording, it is advisable to exit from these. Right-clicking any of these icons will bring
up a menu. If there is a Close, Exit, or Quit option for any of these icons, choose it
so that you have exited out of any background programs. You can double-check
what applications and processes are running by looking at the Applications and
Processes tabs of the Task Manager. To access the Task Manager, press
Ctrl+Alt+Delete, and then click Task Manager.
3. Turn off Hard Disk Sleep. Make sure your Hard Drive is not set to sleep or turn off
after a short amount of time. If your hard drive goes to sleep (stops spinning to save
power) while you are recording, your recording will be interrupted. Click on the Start
Menu at the bottom left of your screen and select Settings, then Control Panel.
Open the Power Options control panel. Set the Turn Off Hard Disks option to
Never.
windowsupdate.microsoft.com
to easily update your installation. It may
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