Q: The screen keeps freezing on the Apple iPad Pro (the 12.9-inch-screen model) that I bought last fall. Apple's online service had me update the software, then reset the iPad, but it didn't help. An Apple store technician did the same things, with the same result. What can I do?
Pamela Noell, Bartow, Fla.
A: The screen-freezing problem has plagued iPad Pro models for more than a year. Since your iPad is still within its one-year warranty, I suggest you return it to Apple.
Alternatively, there are potential fixes.
Here is what to try when the screen freezes:
• Use the "force restart" feature. Press the "volume up" button for a second, then the "volume down" button for another second. Press and hold the power button until you see the Apple logo.
• Try the "app switcher." Double-click the "home" button to turn on the app switcher; close the app that was active when the screen froze. (A troublesome app can be uninstalled by tapping "settings," then "general," then "iPad storage." Tap the app in the list, then choose "delete app.")
Here's what to try when the iPad is working:
• Close any apps you have left open. They are in "standby mode," and if one stops working it can cause problems. To close them, swipe up from the bottom of the screen, but stop midscreen. Swipe right or left to view the standby apps, and close each one by swiping up.
• Make sure the iPad is charged. If you are using a non-Apple charger, try an Apple one.
• Make sure the iPad has enough storage. Go to "settings," then "general," then "iPad storage." If it's nearly full, delete apps or photos. (Save photos to a computer.)
• Turn off unneeded features. Go to "settings," then "general." Click, then turn off, "background app refresh." Also in "settings," click "iTunes & App Store," and turn off "automatic downloads."
• Disconnect iPad accessories. To disconnect, or "unpair," a wireless device, go to "settings," then "Bluetooth." Tap the "i" symbol next to the connected Bluetooth accessory, then choose "forget this device."
Q: My home Wi-Fi download speed is set at 100 megabits. My Samsung tablet computer shows 100 megabits in online speed tests, but my Windows 10 PC (a Dell Inspiron 5558) shows 9 megabits. To confuse matters, the PC's "Network and Sharing Center" (part of Windows 10) shows that it's really getting 100-megabit downloads. What's wrong?
Dave Lovell, Colorado Springs, Colo.
A: Your tablet computer is showing the actual speed of your internet connection, 100 megabits. Your PC is capable of the same speed, but is getting only 9 megabits because of internal factors.
There are several possible causes for your PC's slower speed, such as how strong a Wi-Fi signal it's getting (how close it is to a wireless router makes a difference) or whether its wireless network adapter has up-to-date software drivers. (For a list of 10 ways to improve your PC's download speed, see tinyurl.com/y696gsw8).
Why is there a discrepancy in the speed tests? Online "speed test" sites (for a list, see tinyurl.com/y643b386) are usually accurate. The Windows 10 "Network and Sharing Center" shows the download speed the PC can get, not what it actually gets.
E-mail tech questions to steve.j.alexander@gmail.com. Include name, city and telephone number.
