Hey guys I need help cleaning out files of this laptop I just got. It has a 150GB hdd but 120GB are being used... I can find some files but theres around 100GB that are being used.
I would normally just install a fresh windows but the problem with this laptop is that it overheats if the processors aren't in power save mode (Shuts off in 20 or so minutes if its not in powersaving) any suggestions?
So... You want to search for which files to delete?
"WinDirStat is a disk usage statistics viewer and cleanup tool."
http://windirstat.info/
Can you connect the hard drive to some other computer? You can do all your work from there.
>>1
You've got problems with cooling. Why not clearing the FAN?
>>4
To this I would add cleaning the heatsinks, but don't remove them unless you have thermal paste.
If it is a laptop, you might want to send it to a local shop. Because laptop components are more fragile and smaller compared to desktop, so you have to be extra careful when you take things apart. Oh, it usually more expensive too so be sure you have a steady hand and know what you are doing before unscrewing anything.
A great utility for finding where data is being used at is called Overdisk. It can be found here.
http://users.forthnet.gr/pat/efotinis/programs/overdisk.html
It's a good idea to get some thermal paste anyway. Most laptops don't have any when they are made to begin with. Just apply a very small coating (I normally just do enough that I can't see through it) with a small flat object like a flathead screwdriver or something. Be gentle.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835100014&cm_re=thermal_paste-_-35-100-014-_-Product
Also, yes, clean the heatsink out. What model laptop do you have?
If the total size of files and free space are mysteriously way less than the nominal capacity of the hard disk, it could be useful to run a disk check. Right-click on the disk drive, select "Properties"/"Tools"/"Check Now". Check "Automatically..." and click "Start", then "Yes", then restart the computer.
Afterwards, download and run CCleaner.
My first piece of advice is, avoid dissassembling laptops/notebooks whenever possible. Desktop machines are no trouble, but I leave laptops to professionals.
With regards to overheating, I've had good luck with simplying blowing dust out with a compressed-gas can you can buy at any office-supply store. My cousin's laptop had the exact trouble as OP, and cleaning the dust out solved that.