Q When I run the Microsoft Outlook Business Contact Manager on my Windows XP computer, the PC will often "thrash," using up to 100 percent of its computing capacity even when no programs are running.

When I power down, it will show that it is ending programs whose names I don't recognize, such as "SPRTCMD." How can I take my computer back from these evil gremlins?

CHUCK ACKLAND, NORWOOD YOUNG AMERICA

A Your problem isn't caused by SPRTCMD, a program that helps you connect to Dell technical support. It's more likely caused by Business Contact Manager, which can sometimes use so much RAM that other programs (including those running in the background) can't get as much RAM as they need. This forces the other programs to access the slower disk drive memory, which causes a lot of computer processor activity. One solution would be to add RAM.

The bigger problem is that even after you finish using Business Contact Manager, it may not let go of the RAM it's been using -- which means other programs still can't use it.

To make Business Contact Manager let go, users on some computer forums suggest using Windows Task Manager. To call up Task Manager, push the Ctrl, Alt and Delete keys at the same time. Then choose the "processes" tab, find the process called "MSSMLBIZ" and click the "end process" button at the bottom of the menu.

Q Last week the battery meter icon disappeared from the toolbar in my Windows Vista Dell laptop. Now I have to go to the Control Panel to find out how much battery power I have left. Because I already ran out of juice once, I kind of live in fear of it happening again. What can I do to get the battery icon back?

ELAINE SISMAN, MIAMI BEACH, FLA.

A Several Dell laptop owners have had this problem. To return the battery icon to the toolbar, right-click the PC's main screen, or desktop, and choose "properties." Click the "screen saver" tab, then the "power" button, then click the "advanced" tab. Check the box next to "always show icon on the taskbar," then click "apply" button at the bottom of the menu.

Q Will Windows 7 play all games purchased for previous versions of Windows?

HOWARD BRIMMER, TUCSON, ARIZ.

A Microsoft says current games will run, but not all previous games. Here are two game compatibility lists that were posted before Windows 7 was released: tinyurl.com/ycqeg67 and tinyurl.com/y8lvzmd.

E-mail tech questions to steve.j.alexander@ gmail.com, or write to Tech Q&A, 425 Portland Av., Minneapolis, MN 55488-0002. Include name, city and phone number.