Do not fear the service pack - help is but a click away

Q: As a longtime and satisfied user of Windows XP, I also received Microsoft's message that I should install Service Pack 3. The message said I could continue to work as the downloading proceeded. This is a somewhat standard message, so I went ahead with the download. But shortly after it started, I received another message saying: 1) I should close all programs, and 2) I should back up my system. Now this wasn't very reassuring that the download would be a trouble-free event.

So my question: Since I have downloaded all previous XP patches and other fixes over several years, haven't I essentially done everything that SP3 would do? Wouldn't it be better to avoid whatever extra benefits SP3 might deliver and not add it?

— Dick Nelson, Seattle

A: While service packs are cumulative — that is, they include the fixes delivered in earlier service packs and patches — they also include fixes and patches not previously delivered. Some of these fixes are very important for the security of your computer. You can view a complete list of the fixes at http://support.microsoft.com/kb/946480/. My advice is to go ahead and install the service pack.

Yes, some users do encounter problems installing service packs. Be aware that free technical support for Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3) is available until April 14, 2009, on the SP3 support site: http://support.microsoft.com/oas/default.aspx?ln=en-us&prid=11273&gprid=522131. According to Microsoft, customers are entitled to free unlimited installation and compatibility support for Windows XP SP3 when they update their older versions of Windows XP (from Windows XP RTM, SP1 or SP2).

Q: I have a scanner that runs very slowly. Could the reason be that the power adapters' input is too slow? Or something else? I bought this scanner secondhand and suspect I have an improper adapter.

— Renate Hamaker

A: Whether the cause of the scanner's slowness is an improper power adapter or not, you should make sure you're using the proper power adapter. Using the wrong adapter can damage your equipment. If you don't have the proper adapter, contact the scanner manufacturer.

It's also possible that the scanner may simply be set to scan at a high resolution, which takes longer than scanning at lower resolutions.

Q: Is there a device to enable me to use an LCD monitor as a digital photo display unit while not attached to a computer? I am purchasing a larger display for my computer, and would like to use my existing monitor just to display photos.

— Allen David, Seattle

A: You're going to need some kind of CPU, whether it's an intelligent disc player or a full-fledged computer. I'm not aware of any devices designed specifically for the purpose you have in mind, though I'll certainly pass along any solutions other readers may offer.

Q: I was reading in a recent column of yours about an alternative to a Hotmail account — registering your own domain name.

Can you please direct me to where I might be able to do this?

— Linda Hoye

A: Registering your own domain name is simple, but it's only the first step.

First, you need to pick a registrar. There is a large number of service providers who can register a domain name for you. Just search the Internet for "register domain name" and take your pick.

You'll find significant variation in prices, since some providers offer additional services and packages. Expect to pay anywhere from just under $10 per year to around $30 per year to lease a domain name, depending on the number of years you commit to and the package of services you require.

Domain-name registrars also offer e-mail boxes and Web services.

Once you've registered your own domain name, you can keep it as long as you keep up payments — even if you decide to use another service provider for hosting your e-mail accounts and Web sites.

Questions for Patrick Marshall may be sent by e-mail to pmarshall@seattletimes.com or pgmarshall@pgmarshall.net, or by mail at Q&A/Technology, The Seattle Times, P.O. Box 70, Seattle, WA 98111. More columns at www.seattletimes.com/columnists.