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Warmly Welcome !!!
Computer Basics
Lesson 12: How do I keep my computer healthy?
How Do I Keep My Computer Healthy?
Tips for watching the video.
Computers are expensive, and with all big purchases, you probably want to protect your investment. Luckily, it is not difficult to keep your computer healthy and in good working order.
Basically, there are 3 areas that you need to maintain. You need to:
- Keep the physical components of your computer clean
- Protect your computer from threats such as viruses, and
- Keep your files in order to make day-to-day use of your computer efficient and easy.
Keep Your Computer Physically Clean
When dealing with computers, dust isn't just unattractive, it can potentially destroy parts of your computer. And while the problems that arise because of poorly cleaned computers can usually be fixed, it involves maintenance fees that no one really wants to spend. One of the best things you can do to keep your computer working properly is to clean it regularly.
Cleaning the Keyboard
A dirty keyboard doesn't look nice, and can cause your keyboard to not work properly. If dust, food, liquid, or other particles get stuck underneath the keys, they might not work. If you need to clean your keyboard, check your owner's manual to see if the manufacturer has provided you with instructions for your specific keyboard. If so, you should follow them. If not, the following steps are basic cleaning tips that will help you keep your keyboard clean.
 Tilt Keyboard and Spray Compressed Air  Can of Compressed Air
- Shut down the computer and unplug it.
- Disconnect the keyboard from the PS/2 or USB port.
- Use a can of compressed air to clean between the keys.
- Spray the air at an angle to best reach any particles beneath the keys.
- Turn the keyboard upside down and move back and forth to loosen dust. Also, tap the bottom of the keyboard while upside down to dislodge any other particles.
- Turn the keyboard right-side up.
- Pour rubbing alcohol on a paper towel or anti-static wipe.
- Wipe the keys and keyboard.
- Reconnect the keyboard to the computer once it is dry.
You can use an electronics cleaning fluid if you wish, but rubbing alcohol works just as well as specialized products and is usually less expensive. Whether using rubbing alcohol or another cleaning fluid, never pour the liquid directly on the keyboard. Always wet a anti-static wipe, or paper towel, and use it to clean the keyboard.
You may want to use a plastic keyboard cover to protect the keyboard if dust or other particles are an issue.
What About Liquids?
If you spill liquid on the keyboard, quickly shut down the computer, and disconnect and turn the keyboard upside down to allow the liquid to drain.
If the liquid is sticky, you will need to hold the keyboard on its side under running water to rinse the sticky liquid away. Then, turn the keyboard upside down to drain for two days. The keyboard may not be repairable at this point, but rinsing the sticky liquid off the keyboard is the only chance for it to be usable again. Keep in mind, the best way to avoid this situation is to keep drinks away from the computer area.
Keep Your Computer Physically Clean
 Optical Mouse  Mechanical Mouse
Cleaning the Mouse
There are two main types of mice, mechanical and optical. Each is cleaned in basically the same way, although the mechanical mouse requires a few extra steps.
Mechanical mice are especially susceptible to dust and particles that can accumulate inside the mouse, which can make it difficult to track, or move, properly.
Optical mice require no internal cleaning since there aren't any rotating parts; however, they can get sticky over time as dust collects near the light emitter or on sticky pads, if your mouse has these. This can cause erratic cursor movement or the mouse to not work at all.
Before you clean your mouse, check your owner's manual to see if the manufacturer has provided you with instructions for your specific mouse. If so, you should follow those instructions. If not, the following steps are basic cleaning tips that will help you keep your mouse clean.
 Mechanical Mouse with Ball-Cover Ring Removed
To Clean a Mechanical Mouse:
- Shut down the computer and unplug it.
- Disconnect the mouse from the PS/2 or USB port.
- Turn the mouse upside down.
- Push and turn the ball-cover ring in the direction indicated on the mouse to unlock the ring. If you don't see any arrows, push the ring and turn counterclockwise. If your mouse uses screws, use a screwdriver to unscrew the ring.
- Turn the mouse sideways to remove the ring and tracking ball.
- Rinse the tracking ball with water.
- Use an anti-static wipe, paper towel, or cotton swab dampened with rubbing alcohol to remove the dust from inside and outside the mouse.
- Let all the parts dry.
- Reassemble all the parts of the mouse.
- Reconnect the mouse to the computer.
To Clean an Optical Mouse:
Optical Mouse Turned Upside Down
- Shut down the computer and unplug it.
- Disconnect the mouse from the PS/2 or USB port.
- Turn the mouse upside down.
- Use an anti-static wipe or paper towel damped with rubbing alcohol to lightly wipe the bottom of the mouse. Be sure the wipe is only lightly dampened.
- OR, if specific areas are noticeably sticky,
- Use an anti-static wipe or paper towel damped with water to wipe the areas.
- Place the mouse on a clean, white sheet of paper and run the mouse over it. Dust and/or particles should rub off onto the paper.
It important to keep your mouse clean if you want to easily point, click, and drag items around the screen, as a dirty mouse can interfere with these actions.
Keep Your Computer Physically Clean
Cleaning the Monitor
Dirt, finger prints, and dust can make your computer screen difficult to read; however, it's easy to clean your screen when needed. As discussed in lesson 2, the two main types of monitors are cathode ray tube (CRT) and liquid crystal display (LCD) . The CRT monitors have glass screens and resemble a tube television, while the LCD monitor is a flat-panel monitor that is not made of glass. Both require different cleaning procedures. If you have a desktop computer, you will need to clean your monitor based by following the instructions for the type that you have. If you have a laptop computer, you will need to follow the LCD/flat-panel instructions.
To Clean a Glass Screen
 Monitor Cleaner
- Turn off the computer and unplug it.
- Disconnect the monitor from the computer case.
- Use a paper towel, lint-free cloth, or monitor-cleaning cloth dampened with water to wipe the screen clean.
You can purchase and use special monitor cleaning products, but water is usually sufficient. Additionally, you can use a cloth dampened with an ammonia-free glass cleaner to clean glass monitors.
You may want to consult your owner's manual to see what the manufacturer recommends. Be sure your screen does not have anti-glare protection if you are using anything other than water.
To Clean an LCD/Flat-Panel Screen
- Turn off the computer and unplug it.
- Disconnect the monitor from the computer case, if working with a desktop computer.
- Wipe a dry, soft cloth across the screen. Any soft cloth will work, or you can use a special monitor cleaning cloth.
- If dust, fingerprints, or dirt remain on the screen, dampen the cloth with rubbing alcohol.
- Wipe the screen with the damp cloth.
Do not spray any liquids directly onto the LCD screen. Do not use a paper towel as it can scratch the screen. Do not use glass cleaner on LCD screen, as it can remove any anti-glare protection that is on it.
Keep Your Computer Physically Clean (cont.)
Tips for Cleaning Other Computer Surfaces
- Dust is your computer's enemy main enemy. Use an anti-static wipe to lightly dust your monitor and surfaces. Don't use furniture cleaners or strong solvents.
- Use a can of compressed air with a narrow nozzle to blow out debris from the air intake slots.
- Spray cleaning solution (diluted ammonia cleaner or glass cleaner) on a paper towel or anti-static wipe. Clean the monitor housing and case (not the monitor screen) starting from the top and to the bottom.
- A safe cleaning solution for computer surfaces (not computer screens) is ammonia diluted with water, or glass cleaner comprised mostly of ammonia and water (check the label). Remember, the milder the solution, the better.
Keep it Cool
Don't restrict the airflow around your computer. Since it generates a lot of heat, an internal fan cools your computer. Dust and dirt can cause the fan to fail. So, avoid putting your computer in an area with a lot of dust and don't stack papers, books or other items on or around your computer.
Always place your computer in an open area that allows adequate airflow. A lot of the computer desks that you can buy have a narrow opening for the computer case. Be wary of these because they may not allow for adequate airflow. If you have this type of desk, you may want to position the case so it is not against the back side of the desk. If the compartment where the case is located has a door, leave it open when the computer is turned on.
Keep Your Computer Safe
Cleaning your computer and doing preventive maintenance, such as scanning for viruses, helps keep it running smoothly. Preventative maintenance saves you time, as well, since it saves you the hassle of dealing with systems failures and data loss.
Viruses,Trojan Horses, and Worms
Viruses
Just like a biological virus can make you physically sick, a computer virus can make your computer sick. A virus is a small piece of software that finds it way onto your computer without your knowledge, and causes trouble on your computer system. You may not even know your computer has been infected with a virus until your computer slows down, a program stops working, your computer crashes, or error messages begin appearing.
Many viruses are transferred by email. The virus will travel as an email attachment, and when the attached file is downloaded, the virus will begin to do its job. Often, email viruses will continue to spread by attacking your address book, emailing your contacts, and spreading the virus more.
Trojan Horses
Another destructive piece of software that is similar to a virus is called a Trojan horse. A Trojan horse is simply a program that claims to do one thing, but really does something else to your computer. For example, you may find a site on the Internet and download what you think is a solitaire game, only to run the program and have it delete files.
Worms
A third item you need to safeguard your computer against are worms. Unlike viruses, worms do not attach to other files or programs, but spread themselves over computer networks by taking advantage of the network setup. Worms can delete files or send emails like viruses, but usually they affect the computer's memory, which slows down your computer.
Protect Your Computer
You may be wondering where viruses come from. People are responsible for writing computer viruses. Some are meant to be funny, while others are meant to do damage to your computer. Since we can't control what people do, the real question is, how can I keep my computer safe from viruses?
Tips to Stay Safe
Use Anti-virus Software
The best thing you can do for your computer is use an anti-virus software. Anti-virus software is a program that protects your email, files, and downloads against viruses, worms, and Trojan horses; removes existing threats from your computer; and protects against new viruses if the anti-virus software is updated regularly.
There are several free options, or you can purchase a commercial one such as Norton or McAfee, which are relatively inexpensive when you think about the damage that can be done to your computer. If you already have anti-virus software, verify your virus protection is current. New viruses are written all the time, so it is important that the virus protection that you use be current. This doesn't mean that you have to continuously purchase new software. Most anti-virus software vendors provide updates to your software regularly, and some even provide automatic downloads and updates.
Read Lesson 15 of our Internet Safety tutorial to learn more about anti-virus software.
Avoid Downloading Programs from Unknown Sources
The Internet is full of unknown sources. If you are going to use the Internet, become a savvy web surfer. Learn to look and explore a website to determine if it is a credible site and most likely safe to download from. For example, if you spend some time on the GCFLearnFree.org site you will see that the site is organized and well designed. There is information about who we are, as well contact information in the form of a physical address and email addresses. We are a credible site. Think about who is responsible for the web site and make your best judgment before downloading games, programs, or documents from unknown sources.
Be Cautious of Email Attachments
Never double-click on an email attachment that contains an executable file with an extension such as .exe or .vbs. In generally, be cautious of email attachments and don't download or open files from people you do not know or were not expecting to receive an email from.
Check the Internet Security Options in Your Browser
Whether you use Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, or another browser, always check the Internet security options that are provided by your browser. Each browser is different, so use the Help tool in your browser to learn more about how it helps defend your computer against threats.
 Internet Explorer Options Dialog BoxTake a look at our Internet Safety lessons to learn more about threats to your computer and what you can do to stay safe while using the Internet.
Deleting Files
To keep your computer running smoothly, it's OK to delete, or erase, unused files. Deleting files helps free up valuable hard disk space. For example, you may want to delete a flyer you created two years ago. However, consider whether you will ever want to use the file again before you delete it. Some files may be too important to get rid of.
To Delete a File or Folder:
- Left-click the file or folder you want to delete.
- Drag the file or folder and drop it in the Recycle Bin, the desktop icon that resembles a wastebasket.
OR
- Right-click the file or folder. A menu appears.
- Choose Delete from the menu.
Emptying the Recycle Bin
When you delete a file from your computer, or move it to the Recycle Bin, it is not automatically deleted, but rather is temporarily stored in the Recycle Bin. This usually gives you the chance to restore the file if you decide you do not want to delete it. If you want to permanently remove files from the computer, thereby clearing the hard disk space the file is located, you need to permanently delete the files in the Recycle Bin. You can do this my emptying the entire Recycle Bin, or deleting individual files.
- Double-click the Recycle Bin icon to open it.
- Click Empty the Recycle Bin in the left pane to delete all the files.
OR
- Right-click a file or folder and choose Delete from the menu. This deletes the selected item.
Challenge!
- Take a look at your computer. Does it need to be cleaned?
- Based on the type of monitor you have, clean your monitor following the steps in the lesson.
- Based on the type of mouse you have, clean your mouse following the steps in the lesson.
Computer Basics
Lesson 11: How do I set up a computer?
How Do I Set Up a Computer?
Tips for watching the video.
You have a new computer and are ready to set it up. While this may seem like an overwhelming and difficult task, it is really very simple. It does not matter what name brand of computer you have, as most computers are set up in a very similar way.
If you are setting up a newly purchased computer that is still in the box, you will probably find a how-to guide in the packaging that includes step-by-step details. If it is poorly written, doesn't include pictures, or you don't have a guide, this lesson will help you get that new computer set up easily.
Setting Up a Desktop Computer
 Monitor and Computer Case on Desk
Step 1
Unpack the monitor and computer case from the box. Remove any plastic covering or protective tape. Place the monitor and the computer case where you wish on the desk or work area.
Think about where you want your desk or work area to be located, and where in that area you want your monitor, computer case, and other hardware. Be sure to place your computer case in an area that is well ventilated and that has good air flow. It is important that the computer stay cool, as overheating is a concern, especially if you plan on leaving your computer turned on for long periods of time.
 Monitor Cable
Step 2
Locate the monitor cable. With PC computers, the ends of the monitor cable are often blue.
 Monitor Port on Back of Computer Case
Step 3
Locate the monitor port on the back of the computer case, and on the monitor. You may have to look under the screen to locate the port on the monitor. These ports are also called VGA ports and are usually blue.
Note: While blue VGA ports are common, monitors can be connected with other ports, such as the beige DVI port. Read the owner's manual if you have any questions about the type of monitor port your computer uses.
 DVI Port
Setting Up a Desktop Computer (cont.)
 Monitor Port Under Monitor Screen
Step 4
Connect the cable into the monitor port on the monitor. The pins on the cable fit the port in a specific way, so line up the cable connector and the port. Be careful not to force or bend the pins. If you have misaligned the pins, then they will bend very easily without much resistance.
Once the pins in the cable connector are pushed into the port, turn the plastic-covered screws on each side of the cable to secure it to the monitor.
 Monitor Port on Back of Computer Case
Step 5
Connect the cable into the monitor port on the back of the computer case. Like with the monitor, be careful not to misalign the pins with the port. Once the pins in the cable connector are pushed into the port, turn the plastic-covered screws on each side of the cable to secure it to the computer case.
 PS/2 and USB Ports for Keyboards
Step 6
Unpack the keyboard and locate the PS/2, or keyboard, port on the back of the tower. Plug the cable on the end of the keyboard into the PS/2 port. If the keyboard has a USB connector, locate a USB port on the back of the case and connect the keyboard.
 Keyboard with PS/2 Connector
 PS/2 and USB Ports for a Mouse
Step 7
Unpack the mouse and locate the PS/2, or mouse, port on the back of the computer case. Plug the cable on the end of the mouse into the PS/2 port. If the mouse has a USB connector, locate a USB port on the back of the tower and connect the mouse.
Setting Up a Desktop Computer (cont.)
 Audio Ports
Step 8
If your computer uses external speakers, locate the bank of audio ports on the back of the tower and connect the speakers. In this example, the speakers are located in the monitor so speakers do not have to be connected.
The audio ports are often confusing. If your computer has color-coded peripherals that match the colors on the back of the computer case, then connecting the audio components is generally very easy. If the peripheral does not have a color-coded cable, then remember that the speakers will always go in the green port. Headphones connect to the pink port, and various other devices will connect to the blue port, which is the Line In port.
Additionally, many devices, including headphones, now come with USB connectors. In most computers, the USB ports are located directly above the bank of audio ports.
 Plug Power Supply Cord into Computer Case
Step 9
Plug the power supply cable into the back of the tower, and then into a surge protector power strip.
 Power Supply Socket on Monitor
Step 10
Plug the second power supply cable into the monitor, and then into the power strip with surge protection. The power supply port may be located beneath the screen on the monitor.
 Power Supply Cable Plugged into Power Strip
Step 11
Plug the power strip into a wall outlet, and turn the power on to the monitor, tower, and any external speakers.
It is not a good idea to plug the computer directly into a wall outlet, due to the possibility of electrical surges. A power strip with surge protection is a good investment because it helps protect your computer from this. Some warranties may even exclude electrical damage, so a power strip is really important. Additionally, special power strips with noise filtration can be purchased if interference from multiple appliances is an issue.
You have other sources of protection, like an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), which not only protects your computer from surges, but also serves as an alternate source of power in the event of power loss. As these decrease in price, some home users are finding a UPS a worthwhile investment.
Set Up Complete
Your basic computer hardware is now set up. You might be ready to start working, but before you do, spend a little time arranging your workspace. It needs to promote your productivity, but also be arranged in way that is comfortable and promotes health. The design and arrangement of our computer equipment is not simply a question of what looks nice, but how it can impact our bodies. Computer ergonomics is the science of equipment design and how specific equipment usage and placement can reduce the user's discomfort and increase productivity.
For example, to decrease injuries associated with the soft tissue in the wrists, keep your mouse at the same level as the keyboard and do not use wrist pads while typing. Additionally, to decrease eye strain and neck injuries, position your monitor screen so that your eyes are level with the top of the screen. There are numerous other guidelines regarding chair height, equipment placement, and more that can help you create an efficient and comfortable work area.
 Basic Computer Setup CompleteVisit the U.S. Center for Disease Control website for more information about computer work area ergonomics.
After the Hardware...
 Part of Windows Setup Wizard The computer box is empty, but your computer isn't fully set up yet. If you are working with a new computer, the manufacturer usually includes a guide to help you with the next steps.
Here are some of the things you can expect to do when you turn the computer on for the first time.
Customize Windows
Once you turn on your computer, you will be prompted to customize Windows to meet your needs. You will have to enter your product key, make decisions regarding the region and language settings, set the computer's date and time, and other administrative-type tasks.
Network Decisions
If you have a home network, you should probably select the typical installation setting, which is best for beginners, and enter a domain name. If you aren't connecting your new computer to a network, you'll be able to skip these steps.
 Printer
Automatic Updates
The Windows installation wizard will complete the install process. You will be prompted to decide whether you would like to turn on automatic updates. This is up to you, but if you think you may forget to seek out updates, it is not a bad idea to have them prompted automatically.
Register Software
At the end of the installation process, a dialog box will appear that asks you how you connect to the Internet. You need to provide this information so that Windows can be activated and your copy of the software registered.
Connect Other Devices
Once Windows is running, you can connect your printer and other devices. Each printer and other peripherals install differently, so review the related instruction manual before connecting a device. For example, a printer from company A may require software to be loaded before the printer can work, while a printer from company B may simply require the device be plugged into a USB port.
Challenge!
- If you have a desktop computer that is already set up at home, take a look at it.
- Look at the monitor cable and see where it connects to the computer case and monitor.
- Locate the power cords for the monitor and computer case.
- Locate the bank of audio ports.
- Do you have a USB or PS/2 mouse?
- Do you have a USB or PS/2 keyboard?
Computer Basics
Lesson 10: How do I connect to the Internet?
How Do I Connect to the Internet?
Tips for watching the video.
You have all the basic parts of your computer set up and want to start surfing the Internet. You might even see an Internet Explorer icon on your desktop. You may be wondering if getting online is as simple as clicking that icon. Well, yes and no. There are basically three things you need to use your computer to become active online -- an Internet Service Provider (ISP), a modem, and an Internet browser. Before you can connect to the Internet, you have some decisions to make about these three topics.
Types of Internet Access
Before you can connect to the Internet, you need to determine the type of Internet access you would like, and which Internet Service Provider (ISP) you want to provide you with this access. An ISP is the company that provides you with your connection to the Internet for a fee. Often ISPs offer different types and tiers of access, so it is a good idea to consider the common types of service before exploring specific companies.
Dial-up Access
Dial-up access is usually the least expensive way to access the Internet; however, it is also the slowest. With dial-up service, you need a phone line and PC modem to dial-up and be connected to the Internet by your ISP. A modem ties up the phone line so can't use the phone and computer at the same time.
While dial-up access can be an affordable option, the web pages load slowly due to the limitations of the modem. Some websites with a lot of videos or graphics may have a difficult time loading, if they load at all. Additionally, with dial-up access, your Internet connection isn't immediate. Since you have to use the telephone line to dial into a server, it can take from several seconds to minutes before you can access the Internet.
If you only use the Internet to check your email and occasionally view other websites, a dial-up connection may serve your needs. If you are going to spend any significant amount of time online, you should consider another option. Keep in mind that some ISPs have increased the fee for dial-up access in an effort to transition more people to broadband access.
DSL Access
DSL, or Digital Subscriber Line, provides high-speed, Internet access through a phone line. With DSL service, you can talk on the telephone and access the Internet at the same time. It is considered a type of broadband Internet access, which refers to high-speed Internet connections that allow for transmission of data at rates 10 to 50 times faster than dial-up service. Verizon and AT & T are two popular DSL providers.
A DSL modem and an Ethernet card are required for installation. A splitter may also be required to filter the DSL signal from the low frequency voice signal; however, this is handled by the Internet Service Provider.
Cable Access
Cable access is provided through your local TV cable company and transferred through your TV cables. Like DSL access, it is considered broadband, high-speed Internet access. If you don’t have cable TV, you may be able to purchase cable Internet service as long as it is available in your area.
With cable access, web pages load quickly and you will find it easy to download and upload files. One thing to be aware of though is that cable access is a shared service and can be affected by others who use the same cable lines. For example, if it is a holiday and everyone in your neighborhood is at home surfing the web, you may notice that some aspects of service are slower than normal. In most areas, this won’t be an issue.
Satellite Access
Satellite access can be used in locations where there is no broadband cable or DSL Internet available. Satellite access is available across the world and can provide you with a broadband connection that is equal to a high speed connection. Satellite service is the most expensive and will require costs such as installation and satellite equipment, which will cost several hundred dollars.
Choosing an Internet Service Provider (ISP)
Once you have decided which type of Internet access you are interested in, you can determine which ISPs are available in your area that offer the type of Internet access you want. Then, you need to choose the ISP best meets your needs based on their prices and service packages, and secure Internet access through that company. Talk to friends, family members, and neighbors to see what ISP they use.
Some things to consider as you research ISPs:
- Speed
- Price
- Billing
- Installation Software
- Physical Service
- Service Record
- Extras such as email accounts and web space
- Technical Support
- Remote Access
- Contract Terms
Read our Comparing Internet Service Providers article to learn more.
Internet Browser
A browser is the tool that allows you to view and interact on the Internet. Once you have an account with an ISP and can access the Internet, you'll need to use a browser to access web pages. Browsers can be referred to the window of the web because they allow you to view all the pages on the Internet.
Most computers come preloaded with Microsoft Internet Explorer, so you don't have to worry about purchasing a browser; however, you don't have to use Internet Explorer. If you would prefer to try another browser option, you can. For example, Mozilla Firefox is a free browser that you can download and use.
 GCFLearnFree.org Website Viewed Through Mozilla Firefox BrowserRead our article that compares Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox.
Wireless Connections
If you want to use your laptop at home, work, the local coffee shop, or at any public place, you can do this if your computer is configured for a wireless connection and there is Internet access available.
What Does Your Laptop Need?
The first thing you need to do is make sure your computer is configured for wireless access. Most new laptops include built-in wireless adapters. If your laptop does not have the wireless adapter, you can buy and install one that plugs into a port on your computer.
Once your computer is configured for wireless access, all you need to do is turn your computer on. It should be able to automatically locate the existing networks. A couple of clicks later and you'll be surfing the web.
Where Can You Use Wireless Internet Access?
You can access the Internet wirelessly from any location that has an existing network. If you go to a public place that advertises free wireless access, or free WiFi, and turn on your laptop, the computer will display a list of existing networks, and ask whether you want to connect to one of them. If so, just click on the network name listed on the screen, and you will then be able to open your browser and surf the web.
What about Wireless Access from Home?
If you want to use a wireless Internet connection from home, you will need to install a wireless router. A wireless router is a device that receives the signal sent by your computer and decodes it. It The router sends the information to the Internet using a wired Ethernet connection. Even when we talk about connecting to the Internet wirelessly, there is a wired connection somewhere that makes it all happen.
Another benefit to a wireless home network is the ability to connect multiple computers. They allow you to easily connect multiple computers to the Internet using only one IP address.
Challenge!
- Research 2 or more Internet Service Providers and compare their service packages.
- Determine which provider and service package would be best for you, based on your needs.
Computer Basics
Lesson 9: What is inside a laptop computer?
What is Inside a Laptop Computer?
Tips for watching the video.
Have you ever looked inside a desktop computer case before? There is a lot of extra room in there. That is not true with laptops. Laptops are smaller, so there is less room for parts. Everything is smaller and grouped tightly together so it fits into the notebook-sized case.
Laptop parts are basically the same as desktops, often just smaller. Let's take a look.
A Look Inside a Laptop Computer
 Central Processing Unit (CPU) CPU/Processor
The Central Processing Unit (CPU), also called a processor, is located inside the laptop on the motherboard. It is often called the brain of the computer, or the computer's engine. Its job is to carry out commands. Whenever you press a key, click the mouse, or start an application, you're sending instructions to the CPU.
The processor determines how fast a computer can execute instructions. A processor's speed is measured in megahertz (MHZ), or millions of instructions per second, and gigahertz (GHZ), or billions of instructions per second. So, the higher the hertz, the faster the computer can process instructions. The power of the processor is measured in bits. The more bits a processor can handle, the more data it can handle, and therefore, the more powerful the processor. The CPU is generally a 2 inch ceramic square with a silicon chip located inside. The chip usually about the size of a thumbnail.
There are many processor manufacturers for personal computers including Intel, Cyrix, VIA, and AMD.
Many processor chip designers include funny or interesting hidden artwork, such as images, phrases, initials, and logos on the chips. This artwork is only visible when the chip is open and magnified, so it's really a joke among the chip developers, rather than something intended for everyone to see.
A Look Inside a Laptop Computer (cont.)
 Random Access Memory (RAM) RAM
RAM (Random Access Memory) is your system's short-term memory. Data is temporarily stored here until you save your work to the hard disk. RAM is used by the system to store data that is processed by a computer's CPU.
The computer's work takes place in RAM. This is where programs run when you are using Word to create a letter, or Excel to produce a company spreadsheet.
This short-term memory disappears when the computer is turned off, so always save your file before turning off the machine. When you save a file, you are saving it to long-term storage that does not disappear when the computer is turned off.
 RAM on motherboard
The more RAM you have, the more things your computer can do at the same time, and the faster your computer performs certain tasks. RAM is measured in megabytes (MB) or gigabytes (GB).
To understand megabytes and gigabytes, you need to know about bits and bytes. A bit is the smallest unit of data in computer processing. A byte is a group of eight bits. A megabyte is about one million bytes. A gigabyte is 1,024 megabytes.
To put this into perspective, consider that a printed page of single-spaced text contains about 3,000 characters. One MB holds about 400 pages of single-spaced text.
Motherboard
The motherboard is the computer's main circuit board. It's a thin plate that holds the CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory, connectors for the hard drive and optical drives, expansion cards to control the video and audio, as well as various external ports and peripherals. The motherboard connects directly or indirectly to every part of the computer.
If you decide to open the computer case and take a look, be sure to touch a grounded metal object to discharge any static buildup. Static electricity can be transmitted through the computer circuits and ruin them.
A Look Inside a Laptop Computer (cont.)
 Hard Disk Drive Hard Disk Drive
The hard disk drive is the data center of the computer. All of your programs are stored here. The hard disk drive is long-term storage where information is stored permanently. When you use a word processing program, the computer loads the instructions from long-term storage (your hard disk) into short-term memory.
Hard disk speed determines how fast your computer starts up and loads programs. The hard disk is called the C drive on most computers.
Optical Disc Drive
An optical disc drive is a peripheral device that reads data stored on optical discs. Some drives can only read from discs, but often drives are both readers and burners. CD and DVD drives are common optical drives. From inside the computer, optical drives look very similar to hard disk drives.
Video card
The video card is responsible for what you see on the monitor. If you like playing graphic-intense games on the computer, a good video card is important to you. The main function of the video card is to generate and output images to the computer screen. Better graphics card equals better performance when playing games or working on a high resolution monitor.
Sound Card
The sound card, also called an audio card, is another type of expansion card. It lets the computer play sounds through speakers. Some motherboards feature integrated sound, and do not require a separate sound card..
Network card
The network card allows your computer to communicate over a network. With the network card you can set up a home network with a few computers and connect them by via Ethernet cords or wirelessly.
Expansion Card
An expansion card is a card which you can install to expand a computer's capabilities. For example, your computer's sound card is an expansion card which plugs into the motherboard.
Challenge!
- Review the parts of the computer identified in this lesson. Make sure you know the function of each part.
Think Creatively! In the lesson and videos, we compared the CPU to a brain, the hard drive to a closet, and the motherboard to a blue print. Can you think of any other good analogies, or comparisons? Do any of the computer parts listed remind you of something else?
Lesson 7: What are all the buttons, sockets, and slots used for?
What are All the Buttons, Sockets, and Slots Used For?
Tips for watching the video.
Take a look at a laptop and count the number of buttons, sockets, and slots you see. You probably counted more than 10. There aren't quite as many as you'll find on a desktop computer, but still, all of these can be overwhelming for a new laptop user.
Each laptop computer is different, therefore the buttons, slots, and sockets will vary from computer to computer. However, there are certain features that are common and you can expect to find on most laptop computers.
Laptop Buttons, Drives, and Ports
 Power Button
Power Button
The power button is used to power the computer on and off. It is usually directly above the keyboard, but can also be located on any of the four sides of the laptop casing. In addition to turning the computer on and off, you can use the power button on some computers to place the computer in different energy-saving modes such as hibernate, sleep, and standby. It is a good idea to read your manual to learn how these features work on your computer.
CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read-Only Memory) Drive
A CD-ROM drive, also known as an optical drive, allows you to play a CD-ROM , just like a CD player allows you to listen to music. With a CD-ROM drive you can listen to music (if your computer is sound-enabled), view files, and install software that is located on a CD.
 Example Optical Drive -- DVD A CD writer is a device that can be used in conjunction with a CD-ROM drive and allows you to copy or burn information onto specific types of CDs called CD-RW (Compact Disk ReWritable) and CD-R (Compact Disk-Recordable) discs.
DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read-Only Memory) Drive
A DVD-ROM drive, also known as an optical drive, reads DVD discs, all types of CDs, and can display movies from digital video discs. DVDs can hold more data than a CD, so they are a good storage option. A DVD burner is a device that can be used in conjunction with a DVD-ROM and allows you to copy information onto DVD discs. It is considered a type of storage.
In many of the computers you can purchase today, the CD and DVD-ROM or burners are combined.
 SD Port
Memory Card Port
This port is for placing memory cards that are associated with your digital camera or PDA device. It is usually located on the left or right side of the laptop When a memory card is placed in the port, you can view the material on that card using your laptop.
Laptop Buttons, Drives, and Ports
On the sides of the laptop computer are connection ports that are made to fit specific plug-in devices, as well as assorted drives and buttons. The arrangement of these vary from computer to computer, and many companies have their own special connectors for the specific devices. Some of the ports are color coded to match a color on the device, which will help you determine which port is used with a particular device.
 View of Back Laptop Ports Back of Laptop Labeled
- Power Cord Connector
This is where you connect your AC power adapter.
- Ethernet Port
This port looks a lot like the modem or telephone port but it is actually wider. You can use this port for networking and also connecting to the Internet.
- PS/2 Port
This port is the mouse and keyboard port.
- Composite Video Port
Some laptops include a composite video port that allows you to connect your laptop to a television. This port may look familiar to you because many home electronic devices, such as television sets and camcorders, include this port. The composite video port is seen less on new laptops as other ports become more popular for the same tasks.
- Audio In/Audio Out
Every computer has a bank of audio ports where you can connect various devices, including speakers, microphones, headsets, and more.
- USB Port
Almost every laptop computer on the market today comes with two or more Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports. These USB ports let you attach a variety of devices such as mice, printers, keyboards, web cameras, USB/flash drives, and digital cameras to your computer quickly. Almost every peripheral made comes in a USB version, and installing the devices using USB ports is much easier than connecting devices using parallel and serial ports.
 Back of Laptop Labeled
- Monitor Port
An external monitor can be connected to this port. Even though the laptop comes with a built-in screen, some users like to turn their laptop into a desktop unit by connecting external parts such as a monitor, keyboard, and printer.
- Parallel Port
The parallel port is one of the two original ports on the first personal computer. It is commonly known as the printer port since this port is used to connect your printer to your computer; however, with the rise in use of the USB ports, you can expect to see a decrease in the use of this port. Currently, a large number of parallel port printers are still manufactured and used on older computers that don’t have USB support.
- Serial Port
The serial port is the other original port on the first personal computer. On recent computers, the serial port has been replaced by the USB port, as both ports can be used to plug in external devices such as a mouse or keyboard. Most peripherals use the USB drive because USB drives do not require you to reboot your computer when a new device is added, whereas serial ports do.
- FireWire Port
FireWire is actually the Apple brand name for the IEEE 1394 port, but the term caught on and it is commonly referred to as the FireWire port. It is the standard port used with digital video cameras and high-resolution scanners. It is commonly used to upload audio/video from the device to the computer using a FireWire cable. FireWire ports are not on every computer; however, you can buy an adapter card to add them. The laptop in the image does not have a FireWire port.
Peripherals You Can Use in Various Ports
Printer
- Printers: A printer is a peripheral that is used to print, or produce, a version of what appears on the screen in a hardcopy format. There are many types of printers available including ink-jet, laser-jet, and photo printers. Also, combination printers that include scanners and copiers are increasing in popularity.
- Scanners: A scanner allows you to copy an image or document and save it in electronic form onto your computer. While you can purchase a hand-held and flatbed scanners, you are more likely to purchase a scanner as an all-in-one option that combines a scanner, printer, and copier into one product.
Scanners vary in resolution, or sharpness, so when shopping for one, be sure to compare the resolution of the products. A scanner is connected to the computer via a parallel port, a USB port, or a SCSI connection. No matter which connection is used, the images are stored on your PC's hard drive in a digital format.
Headphones
Speakers/Headphones: Speakers and headphones are output devices, which means that they are devices that communicate information from the computer to the user. They allow you to hear sound and music. Both speakers and headphones connect to a computer; however, some computers are designed with speakers built into the monitor.
Microphones: A microphone is a type of input device, or a device that receives information from a user. You connect the microphone to the computer and use the computer to record sound or to communicate with another computer user via the Internet. Many computers come with built-in microphones.
 Web Camera
- Web Cameras: Web cameras, or web cams, are devices that connect to a computer and display a video image of whatever it is recording. This video image can be transmitted over the Internet, allowing a user in another location the ability to see the video in real-time. Web cameras are used often in business for video conferences, and are also a great tool for families to use to stay connected from different parts of the world.
- Joystick or Game Controller: A joystick is a lever used while playing a computer game.
- Digital Cameras: A digital camera lets you capture a picture in digital (computer-readable) form. You can transfer that image directly from the camera to the computer. When you use a digital camera, you can also preview your pictures before printing them. If you don't like what you see, you can edit or delete them.
Personal Digital Assistant
Personal Digital Assistant (PDA): A PDA is a handheld computer that can have a variety of features including a calendar, Internet access, video recording, word processing, email access, phone, media player, and more. Most PDAs can be synchronized with a PC to allow up-to-date contact information stored on software such as Microsoft Outlook, RSS feeds, or other web updates.
MP3 Players: An MP3 player is a portable device that stores, organizes, and plays audio files. The player can read files that are recorded from a CD using a computer, or downloaded from various sites via the Internet.
Challenge!
- Find out what types of drives are on your computer (e.g, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM).
- Count the number is USB Ports there are on your computer.
Computer Basics
Lesson 6: What are the basic parts of a laptop computer?
What are the Basic Parts of Laptop Computer?
Tips for watching the video.
The basic parts of a laptop computer are the screen, keyboard, touchpad, speakers, battery, and AC adaptor. Beyond these basic parts are the hardware items located inside the laptop, and the peripherals, which are optional pieces of hardware that enables the computer to accomplish additional tasks.
Basic Parts of a Laptop Computer
Let's take a look at the basic laptop components.
 Laptop Parts Labeled
- Monitor
The monitor, which resembles a television screen, is where the computer displays text and pictures.
- Keyboard
The keyboard is a piece of hardware that resembles a typewriter keyboard. It is one of the primary ways you communicate with the computer and enter data.
- Speakers
Speakers are usually small and built into the screen or the body of the laptop. In the image, the example laptop has speakers in the body, or laptop casing. The speakers allow you to hear computer sounds, audio streamed from the Internet, CDs and DVDs, and more.
- Touchpad
On a laptop, a touchpad is a substitute for the mouse. Move your finger on the touchpad to move around the screen and select text and objects. The buttons below the touchpad operate like mouse buttons.
 TouchpadUsing the Touchpad:
- Click. Select an object on the screen by pressing the left button down with your index finger and then release the button.
- Drag an object on the screen by pressing and holding down the left button with your index finger while moving another finger on the touchpad. When the object is where you want it, release the button.
- To double-click, rapidly press and release the left button with your index finger.
- To right-click, press and release the right button with your middle finger.
Basic Parts of a Laptop Computer (cont.)
 Laptop Battery Removed from Casing Battery
The battery on a laptop serves as its life-line. A laptop will work without a battery if it is receiving power from a power adapter.
The battery allows you to be more mobile without having to be near a power outlet for an extended period of time. Most laptop batteries will last for about 1.5-2 hours before needing to be recharged. If your battery dies or has a defect you can buy a new one from your computer’s manufacturer or a local computer or electronics store.
AC Adaptor
The AC Adaptor is the source of electric power for a laptop. The power adapter does two jobs when it is plugged in. It powers the laptop and charges the battery.
Challenge!
- Think about the laptop computers you've seen at work, school, the library, a store, or a friend's house.
- Did all the laptops look the same?
- What did they have in common?
Lesson 5: Types of Computers
Page 1
By the end of this lesson, learners should be able to:
- Discuss the different types of computers
PCs and Macs
Two popular types of personal computers are the IBM compatibles and the Macintosh.
IBM compatibles
The first personal computer produced by IBM was called the PC. The term PC came to mean IBM or IBM-compatible personal computers -- excluding other types of computers, such as the Macintosh.
Both Macs and PCs are personal computers.
The Macintosh
Introduced in 1984 by Apple Computer, the Macintosh, or Mac, was the first widely sold personal computer with a graphical user interface or GUI (pronounced gooey). The Mac was designed to provide users with a user-friendly interface. For example, the use of icons or small images to represent objects or actions. Microsoft successfully adapted user interface concepts made popular by the Mac.
Mac users represent about 5 percent of the total numbers of personal computer users. Macs are especially popular among graphic designers.
Note: Our training is intended for people who use PCs and the Windows operating system. Some of our information also applies to Macintoshes, but there are important differences.
Types of Computers
During this unit, we've primarily discussed personal computers. However, there are many other computers that serve a variety of purposes.
Server
A server is a computer or device that manages a network of computers. It's typically used by businesses or organizations.
Laptops
A laptop computer, sometimes called a notebook computer because of its size, is a battery or AC-powered personal computer. It's easy to carry and convenient to use in such places as airports, libraries, and coffee shops.
Laptops usually cost more than desktop computers because of design and manufacturing costs. While some models are full desktop replacements, others can be "transformed" into a desktop computer with a docking station, which supplies connections for peripherals.
Laptops users typically don't use a mouse to navigate around the screen. Instead, they use a touch pad, trackball or stylus. A serial port does, however, allow a mouse to be attached.
Personal Digital Assistants and Email-Only Devices
In recent years, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) have also become popular.
The two major types of PDAs are the Palm OS Handhelds, and the Microsoft Pocket PC.
The Palm can help you easily organize appointments, addresses, and to-do lists.
The Pocket PC, designed as a near replacement for a laptop computer, can also easily manage appointments, addresses, and to-do lists. You can add software to both models.
Small, email-only machines, marketed to home users, are dedicated to sending, receiving, and managing email. Users typically must pay an access fee to use these devices.
Thinking of Buying a Computer?
When trying to decide which computer best fits your needs, consider:
- What will you primarily be using it for? Emailing or surfing the Internet? Playing games or organizing your life?
- Will you be working at home or in an office? Or, will you be moving around a lot? Would a stationary or portable machine work best?
- How much can you afford to pay?
- Service and support. You may pay for it upfront but it's usually worth it. A service warranty calls for the manufacturer to fix your computer if something breaks. On-site service, where someone comes to your home or office to fix the computer, is best. Support is help in the form of phone support or training.
Computer Basics
Lesson 4: Data Storage
Page 1
By the end of this lesson, learners should be able to:
- Discuss data storage
- Define computer short-term and long-term memory
Page 2
Motherboards and Expansion Cards
How a computer handles information depends largely on its inner parts.
Here are some of the components that make your computer work:
The motherboard is the computers main circuit board. It's a thin plate that holds the CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory, and expansion cards to control the video, audio and more. The motherboard connects directly or indirectly to every part of the computer.
An expansion card is a card which you can install to expand a computer's capabilities. For example, your computer's video card is an expansion card which plugs into the motherboard.
The sound card, also called an audio card, is another type of expansion card. It lets the computer play sounds through speakers. Some motherboards feature integrated sound, and do not require a separate sound card..
Page 3
The Central Processing Unit
The Central Processing Unit (CPU), called a microprocessor, is the brain of the computer. Its job is to carry out commands. Whenever you press a key, click the mouse, or start an application, you're sending instructions to the CPU. Located inside the computer case, this silicon chip is about the size of a fingernail.
The microprocessor determines how fast a computer can execute instructions. A microprocessor's speed is measured in megahertz (MHZ), or millions of instructions per second. So, the higher the megahertz, the faster the computer can process instructions.
Intel, Cyrix and AMD are the three main CPU manufacturers for PCs. The PowerPC microprocessor, developed by Apple, Motorola, and IBM, is used in Macintosh personal computers.
Page 4
Storing Information
RAM (Random Access Memory) is your system's short-term memory. Data is temporarily stored here until you save your work to the hard disk.
This short-term memory disappears when the computer is turned off, so always save your file before turning off the machine. When you save a file, you are saving it to long-term storage.
The more RAM you have, the faster you computer performs. RAM is measured in megabytes (MB) or gigabytes (GB).
To understand megabytes and gigabytes, you need to know about bits and bytes. A bit is the smallest unit of data in computer processing. A byte is a group of eight bits. A megabyte is about one million bytes. A gigabyte is 1,024 megabytes.
To put this into perspective, consider that a printed page of single-spaced text contains about 3,000 characters. One MB holds about 400 pages of single-spaced text.
Page 5
More About Storing Information
The hard disk drive (also called the hard disk) on your computer is where information is stored permanently. This is long-term storage.
When you use a word processing program, the computer loads the instructions from long-term storage (your hard disk) into short-term memory.
The hard disk drive is the data center inside of the computer. All of your programs are stored here. Hard disk speed determines how fast your computer starts up and loads programs. The hard disk is called the C drive on most computers.
Page 6
Floppy Disk Drives, CD-Rom Drives and More
You can also use your floppy disk drive and other drives for long-term storage.
The floppy disk drive, a slot on the computer case, is used for data transfer and software installation. The floppy disk drive, known as A Drive, is also used for storing data. The floppy disk is the tool used for these tasks. Sometimes called a diskette, it can store 720 KB to 1.44 MB of data. That's about 360 to 720 pages in a book. These drives are becoming outmoded as CD-R drives become more common.
A CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read-Only Memory) drive accesses information on a CD-ROM similar to how a CD player accesses music from a CD. CD-ROMs hold much more information than floppy disks - up to 650 MB or the equivalent of about 450 average size books.
ROM (Read-only memory) means you can access the programs or data stored on CD-ROMs but you can't write or store your own data or programs on them. (Recording information on a compact disk requires a special type of drive.)
A CD writer is a device that can write CD-RW (Compact Disk ReWritable) and CD-R (Compact Disk-Recordable) discs, and read CD-ROM discs. CD-RW discs may be written, erased and rewritten, while CD-R discs may be written only once. The terms CD-RW and CD-R may also refer to the CD writer itself.
DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read-Only Memory), refers to the DVD media itself, or to the disk drive. DVD-ROM drives can read DVD discs, all types of CDs, and can display movies from digital video discs.
A Zip drive stores 250 megabytes on disks similar to floppy disks, but Zip drives cannot read or write standard floppy disks. Various versions of the Zip can connect to the computer via the parallel port, SCSI port, USB, IEEE 1394 (Firewire) or internally via the IDE interface. Expansion-bay versions of the Zip drive, compatible with many laptop brands, are also available.
Computer Basics
Lesson 3: Output Devices
By the end of this lesson, learners should be able to:
- List and describe how these output devices work - monitors, printers, speakers and earphones
Output Devices
Output devices, such as computer monitors, deliver information to the user. Speakers, earphones, and printers are also output devices. They allow you to hear sound and print pages, respectively.
Let's look more closely at these peripherals:
Printers
Costs Associated with Printers
To print, laser jet printers use toner. Toner is much more expensive than ink used by inkjets, but toner lasts longer. If you do a lot of printing, a laser printer is less costly to maintain in the long run.
Some printers use specially coated paper, which can cost three times as much as regular paper.
 If you primarily need to print to multi-page forms, the a dot matrix printer will do the job. If you're a graphic artist who wants photo-quality images, buy a laser jet. An ink jet is fine for home use, school work, or business documents.
Monitors
The monitor works with a video card, located inside the computer case, to allow you to see images and text on the screen. Monitors come in different sizes, including 15, 17, 19 and 21-inch. Most new computers come with a monitor the size of a small TV. However, you can buy a less bulky but more expensive flat panel monitor.
Your monitor has an on/off button and control buttons (visible or behind a small panel) that allow you to change your monitor's display. To sharpen, brighten or center your display, check the manual that came with your monitor.
Speakers and Earphones
Speakers are devices that connect to a computer and make sound and music audible. Speakers, like the one pictured below, often come in sets of two or may be built into a computer monitor.
Earphones are output devices. Plug earphones into your speaker, monitor, or case to listen to music, movie clips and other media.
Modem Plays Dual Role
The modem, used for input and output, lets you communicate with other computers through phone lines. For example, a modem allows your computer to connect to the Internet, so you can see this lesson and send email. Most modems come with fax capabilities and are available in different speeds.
56K modems are the fastest type of modem you can use on a standard phone line. Computer users who want more speed may replace a dial-up modem with a cable Internet connection or DSL Internet connection.
A cable modem allows you to connect your computer to a local cable television line and is about 26 times faster than a standard 56K phone modem. It is nearly equal to the data rate available to a DSL subscriber. A cable modem can be added to or integrated with a set-top box that provides your TV set with channels for Internet access. In most cases, cable modems are furnished as part of the cable access service and are not bought directly and installed by the subscriber.
To learn more about modems and the Internet, see our self-paced Internet Basics course.
Computer Basics
Lesson 2: Input Devices
By the end of this lesson, learners should be able to:
- List and describe how input devices work
Input Devices
Input devices are connected to the computer through ports or sockets. Some of these peripheral devices are used to enter information into the computer. They include keyboards, scanners, joysticks and digital cameras.
Let's look more closely at these tools:
The Keyboard
- The main part of a computer keyboard has alpha-numeric (letter and number) keys similar to a typewriter. However, the keyboard also features keys that cause the computer to perform specific tasks.
- The Escape key, labeled Esc, allows you to stop a function or action. For example, if your computer suddenly freezes up, you may be able to resume by pressing Esc.
- The Function keys, along the top of the keyboard, are labeled F1, F2, up to F12. These shortcut keys allow you to quickly complete a specific task within certain programs. For example, F1 opens Help in Microsoft Office.
- The Print Screen, Scroll Lock and Pause/Break keys are at the far right end of the keyboard. The Print Screen key takes a "picture" of your screen that you can edit or save using a graphics program.
- The Enter key carries out commands. For example, while on the Internet, you can type in a website address, called a URL, and press Enter to go to the site.
- The Control (Ctrl), Alternate (Alt), and Shift keys are designed to work with other keys. For example, if you press Ctrl + S at the same time, you can save a file.
- The Backspace key erases the character to the left of the cursor.
- To the right of the regular keys is the cursor control pad. At the bottom are four arrow keys. Pressing any one of these keys moves the cursor in the direction of the arrow.
There are six keys above the arrows:
- The Delete key erases the character to the right the cursor.
- The Insert key switches between the insert mode and overtype mode. The insert mode is the normal mode for word processing.
- The Home key moves the cursor to the left or beginning of the current line.
- End moves the cursor to the right end of the current line.
- Page Up and Page down take you to the top or bottom of the screen.
- The Number pad, at the far right end of the keyboard, resembles a calculator keypad. Similar to the curser keys, you can use the arrow keys on this keypad to move the cursor.
Using the Mouse
The mouse is the hand-held device that lets you point to objects on the screen, click on them, and move them.
To properly use the mouse:
- Using your right hand, place your thumb on the desk or table top on the left side of the mouse
- Your index (pointer) finger should rest on the left button of the mouse.
- Place your middle finger on the right button of the mouse.
- Your ring finger and little finger should rest on the right side of the mouse.
- The base of your wrist should rest on the mouse pad or desktop, for stability.
Left-handed computer users sometimes use their right hand to maneuver the mouse. However, if you're left-handed and want to use your left hand, the mouse buttons can be switched.
To Switch the Mouse Buttons for a Left-Handed User:
- Click Start.
- Choose Settings
 Control Panel.
- Double-click the Mouse icon in the Control Panel window.
- Click Left-handed.
- Click OK.
There are four techniques for using the mouse:
To properly use the mouse:
- Click. Select an object on the screen by pressing the left mouse button down with your index finger and then release the button.
- Drag an object on the screen by pressing and holding down the left mouse button with your index finger while moving the mouse. When the object is where you want it, release the button.
- To double-click, rapidly press and release the left mouse button with your index finger.
- To right-click, press and release the right mouse button with your middle finger.
Scanners
A scanner allows you to copy an image into your computer. It comes in handy if you want to email pictures of the kids to grandma.
There are three main types of scanners:
- Hand-held scanners work like scanning guns used at department stores.
- Sheet-fed scanners look like a printer and can scan only loose, single pages.
- Flatbed scanners look and act like a copy machine.
Scanners vary in resolution, or sharpness. Most flatbed scanners have resolution of at least 300x300 dots per inch (dpi). The more dots per inch, the better the resolution.
Most scanners come with a scanning utility and some type of image editing application. Many include software that allows you to turn a printed page into a text document for your word processor.
The best way to learn how to use a scanner is to spend some time with it. Explore the image quality controls. Scan a picture or a document in at the default setting. Then, scan it with different contrast settings until you learn what many of the settings control. Learn how to use the image editing programs. Go through the tutorial or start guide usually found under the Help menu.
A scanner is connected to the computer via a parallel port, a USB port, or a SCSI connection. No matter which connection is used, the images are stored on your PC's hard drive in a digital format.
Pictures Take Up Space
The images that you scan into your computer can eat up hard disk space. The amount of space a picture takes up on your PC is determined by the size and the resolution you use when you scan it.
To get the most out of your scanner, remember:
- If you want to scan a picture to put on the Web or to email, a 72- or 100-dpi scan is OK. This saves disk space and saves time when the image moves over the Internet.
- If you want to print a snapshot, a 300-dpi scan will give you as much detail as you need.
- If you scan a large photo, such as an 8 by 10, or if you scan a smaller original and plan to enlarge it, then you should use the maximum resolution so you don't lose detail.
- Once you scan a picture, you can save it in different formats.
- A JPEG format, which has the file extension .JPG, is easy to email or use on the Web. The picture loses some detail when you save it in this format so it takes up less of your system's memory.
- A TIFF format, which has the file extension .TIF, is the best if you plan to print an image because no details are lost from the original. However, this format uses more hard drive space.
Microphones and Joysticks
A microphone is another type of input device. Connect the microphone to the computer and use the computer to record sound. (Some computers have internal microphones.) You can also use a microphone to teleconference with another computer user.
A joystick is a lever used while playing a computer game. There are a variety of different joysticks. If you're looking for a joystick, consider your system's requirements, and whether or not you have a USB port or a gameport.
Digital Camera
A digital camera lets you capture a picture in digital (computer-readable) form and lets you transfer that image directly from the camera to the computer. It's a handy tool for taking those pictures you want to email to friends or put on the Web.
A digital camera is similar to a standard 35 mm camera, but it doesn't use film. Instead, it uses an image sensor to capture hundreds of thousands of tiny squares called pixels. These pixels make up a photo.
When you use a digital camera, you can also preview your pictures before printing them. If you don't like what you see, you can edit or delete them.
 Storing Your Images
Separate devices are used to record and store digital images. Older cameras have built-in fixed storage that can't be removed or increased. This limits the number of pictures you can take before having to erase to make room for new ones.
Almost all newer digital cameras use some type of removable storage, usually flash memory cards or small hard disks, and even a floppy disk. Flash memory uses chips to store your image files.
All of these devices can be removed from the camera and plugged into the computer or printer to transfer the images.
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