Posts Comments

You are here: Home / Archives for Computers

Internet Explorer: Shortcuts and Task Tips

Internet Explorer (IE) is a Microsoft browser that allows searching the Internet for information easy and efficient.  To make things even easier, keep these shortcuts and task tips handy the next time you search for information.

Shortcuts

  • Ctrl + N – opens the current webpage in a new window
  • Ctrl + P – prints the displayed webpage
  • Ctrl + I – opens the favorites list
  • Ctrl + D – adds current webpage to favorites list
  • Ctrl + H – opens the browser history
  • Ctrl + B – opens the organize favorites list
  • Ctrl + T – opens a new tab
  • Ctrl + E – opens search in explorer bar
  • Ctrl + W – closes the current window
  • Ctrl + F4 – closes the current tab
  • Ctrl + tab – moves through the open tabs
  • Spacebar – moves down the page
  • Shift + spacebar – moves up the page

Navigation Shortcuts

  • F1 – opens help menu
  • F5 – refreshes the page
  • F11 – allows user to toggle between full screen and regular view of the browser window
  • Esc – stops page from downloading
  • Alt + Home – brings user back to default webpage
  • Alt + left arrow – brings user back to  previously viewed webpage
  • Alt + right arrow – brings user forward to next webpage
  • Page Up – scrolls up through webpage
  • Page Down – scrolls down webpage
  • Home – brings user to the beginning of the page
  • End – brings user to the end of the page

Task Tips

  • Want to disable add-ons?  Hold down the Windows logo key + R >  iexplore.exe –extoff
  • Want the browser to auto complete website addresses as you begin to type? From the menu select tools > Internet options > advanced > and then click on the box next to use inline AutoComplete
  • Need to delete cookies, temporary files, or form data? From the menu select tools > delete browsing history
  • Want to print only a part of the webpage displayed? Highlight the text to print, press Ctrl +P, under page range select selection, and then click on print
  • Need to zoom in? Select Ctrl plus the “+” key
  • Need to zoom out? Select Ctrl plus the “-“ key
  • Want to zoom to 100%? Select Ctrl + 0
Filed Under: Computers, Tips & Tricks Tagged With: ,

Computer Problems: Ways to prevent data loss

Nothing is more frustrating than working hours on a computer document to discover a system problem caused the data to become corrupted and lost forever. There is no way to recover the loss and now must start all over again.

Here are a few recommendations to prevent loss of data:

  • Auto save

Many word processing applications have an auto save feature that can be turned on when creating a document.  Every few minutes the document automatically saves safeguarding the document should the application fail or the power supply shutdown.

  • Secondary hard drive

When saving a document in Word, it will usually place the document under the My Documents folder on the main hard drive. This is the worst place for the data because if anything happens to the operating system, the only resolution is to reformat the drive and reinstall the operating system.  Upon reinstallation, everything previously on the hard drive is lost. The best solution is to have a second hard drive installed for documents to be saved on. The hard drive can either be internal or external as it is not impacted by corrupted operating systems.

  • Backup

Saving a document or file in one place is not a good solution. Systems break down or get stolen, CDs get scratched, and floppy disks can get erased or copied over. You should always save data on a hard drive and then backup it up by burning the information to a CD, or copying it to a USB flash drive or floppy disk. For important information, the data should be backed up and then stored in a safety deposit box or fire-proof vault.

  • Attachments

When receiving email attachments, always run a virus scan before opening it to prevent damage to your system. Also be aware of automatically saving documents that come as attachments. If you do a lot of document collaboration, the email document may have the same document name as one already saved to the hard drive. You run into a problem of overwriting the original document. You can set your email program to save attachments in specified folders.

As a last resort, consider printing important documents. While it means having to retype the information again later, at least you have not lost any content and have to start over from scratch.

Filed Under: Common Problems, Computers Tagged With: ,

Computer Training: Discovering what you need

With catalogs and brochures spread out in front of you, you have decided to take the first steps in enrolling into a computer course. Hold everything for a moment! Before adding your name and sending in the tuition check, take a few moments to assess your needs.

  • Goals

Make a list of why you want to obtain computer training. Have you purchased a computer with loads of software applications, but don’t know how to use them? Perhaps you want to further your education, advance your career, or find new job opportunities. New learners need to take things slow and take basic courses to absorb the information, while advanced learners may need to take refresher courses or specific training.

  • Type

When it comes to computer training there are several offerings.

  • Computer based tutorials – self-study interactive
  • Instructor-led training
  • E-learning/Online – self-paced interactive
  • IT boot camps – accelerate and high-focus training

Consider your learning style and try to match the best type of course offering to meet your training needs.

  • Reputation

Is your goal to obtain certification upon completion of courses? Evaluate the reputation of the organization or institution that the courses are completed through and make sure they are accredited and licensed.

  • Instructors

Computer training courses should be taken with experienced and licensed instructors. They should be professional and a have a tremendous background in technology.

  • Technology

You get what you pay for, so make sure that the technology offered in the classroom or computer lab include computers, software, equipment, and other materials that are current and are of industry standard.

  • Experience

A course that offers only book work and little hands on will not give you the training and experience you need. Make sure that more than 90% of the course is completed with hands-on experiential training.

  • Time

If you don’t have the time to take a course, then don’t consider enrolling. Learning to use a computer requires the user to make the time for learning, hands-on application, simulations, and practice.

  • Take-home

The most important aspect besides the training course itself is the take-home materials. This is more than just the certificate to place on your wall or show to your employer. The take home materials should include manuals, assignments, training discs, assessments, and additional learning aids.

Filed Under: Computers Tagged With: ,

Computer Training: Resources for learning computer skills

Where can someone with little or no computer experience go to learn about the Internet and other software applications without spending thousands of dollars for classes? Check out this helpful list of resources to help you locate free or inexpensive ways in your neighborhood.

  • At Work

Skilled employees are an asset to an organization, which is why many employers offer tuition reimbursement for courses completed by employees. As an added bonus, larger organizations have in-house training departments with computer labs or contractual agreements with online learning centers to offer computer training to employees for free.

  • Libraries

Have you checked out the library lately? They have shelves full of software and books available to teach users everything from application basics through computer programming; all it takes is a library card and a few hours of time. Materials can be checked out for up to three weeks allowing the patron the opportunity to utilize the materials at their own pace.

While at the library, don’t forget to check the computer lab calendar. Many libraries offer free or minimal fee courses to patrons ranging from basic computer skills such as the Internet and email to advanced classes in Microsoft Word and Excel.

  • Career Centers/Temp Agencies

Are you unemployed or underemployed? Most local state unemployment offices have career centers that offer classes in resume writing, interviewing skills, and computer skills for free. If you sign up with a temporary agency, they too have career centers offering courses in computer training to make candidates more marketable.

  • Schools

Check out the local school district and community calendars. You can often find classes offered in the evenings or on weekends in the school’s computer lab or community center instructed by licensed teachers for minimal fees.

Also consider contacting your local community college or alma mater. Many colleges have job centers that offer to students and alumni free skills and computer training to help them obtain jobs during and after graduation.

While at the community college, check out the recent course catalog. Computer courses are offered for in-state tuition prices or less when taken for credit or audited.

  • Online

Type in the words “free computer training” in any search engine and thousands of results will appear including hits from Microsoft to HP. However, a trusted and favorite site worth mentioning is offered by Goodwill Community Foundation called GFC Learning.org. They offer over 750 free online lessons and 250 videos which allows computer users advantage to learn at their own pace.

Filed Under: Computers, Internet Tagged With: , , , ,

Instant Messaging: Free services to chat with friends

Individuals spend more than half their days on the computer. To keep in touch with associates, friends, and family many users utilize Instant Messaging applications to chat via their computers.

What is Instant Messaging? IM is a form of real-time communication via direct text between two or more individuals using a computer or other device, along with shared software clients. IM is an effective and efficient form of communication that allows for immediate acknowledgment and reply.

Many companies have their IT administrators block the access to IM services such as Yahoo , Skype, or MSN via the network, as they believe employees are spending less time working and more time chatting. Most IM clients require a download client in order to be accessed, however it is only good if you are chatting with other members on the same network.

To chat without any hindrances, consider utilizing one of the following free web-based online IM services:

  • Meebo

Meebo is the popular web IM service as it supports and works with Yahoo, MySpace, Facebook, MSN, AIM, and Jabber. Its features include group chat, applications for iPhones, and support for file-sharing, video chat, and more.

  • Nimbuzz

Widely known as a client for cell phones and iPhones, Nimbuzz features include calls, group chats, file-sharing, video chat, and more IM options. The best feature is network information sharing; Nimbuzz allows you to access all your IM networks using only one username and password.

  • imo.im

imo.im shares the same features as Meebo and Nimbuzz, but currently is the only web-based service to support Skype. Besides great support for voice and video chat, it also features buddy chat options including starring frequent chat buddies, renaming and reordering buddy lists, and search buddy list options.

  • KoolIM

Known as the web-base service for small networks, KoolIM supports the standards plus Gadu-Gadu, ICQ, Jabber, Xfire, and more. Its key features are embedded client chat, popup client chat, and the ability to function behind a firewall.

  • eBuddy

eBuddy supports a large number of IM services including Facebook, MSN, Yahoo, MySpace, GTalk, and ICQ. Its features include new window chat, tabbed contacts and chat lists, plus chat history.

As you can see, there are many free web-based IM services available.  Still unsure as to which one will meet your needs, then why not give them all a test drive.

Filed Under: Computers, Internet Tagged With: , , ,

Laptop Computer: Tips for buying a laptop computer

A new computer is in your future and you have decided to purchase a laptop. Buying a laptop computer versus a desktop computer takes a bit more time and consideration especially if the consumer has not owned a laptop before.

Keep these tips and helpful suggestions handy when deciding on the best laptop to buy:

  • Display

The size of the laptop display area requires the user to determine how the computer will be used. If it will be used to replace of a desktop model and be connected to an external monitor, a 12” LCD is sufficient. LCDs of 14” or larger is recommended for heavy computer usage to decrease eye strain.

  • Operating System

One operating system is not better than the other. Like your current operating system and applications? Then select the same for your laptop.  Unsatisfied with your current operating system or would like to know about more options, consider reading reviews highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of Windows and MAC.

  • Battery

If you travel often, use your computer at multiple locations, or have unstable power supply than a longer life battery is the best option. Keep in mind that the battery usage time reported by most manufacturers takes into consideration the computer running at its lowest settings.

  • Memory

The rule of thumb on memory is, the more you have the more efficient the computer will run. Determine how much memory you can afford, the options for upgrading in the future, and the added costs for buying memory later vs. sooner.

  • USB Ports

Consider how many external peripherals you will be connecting to your laptop. Connecting to a printer, wireless mouse and keyboard, and external monitor will use up all you available ports requiring a USB port replicator to be purchase for added ports.

  • Drives

Always consider purchasing a laptop with the most hard drive space especially if your computer is to be used with multiple applications that require saving data files and images.  Also look into the costs of purchasing an external hard drive for backup storage as part of your laptop bundle. Buying now could save you money over purchasing later.

  • Cards

Don’t forget to think about the video, sound, and network cards for your laptop. If you do a great deal of gaming or anything with video imagery, a high memory video card is required.  Plan on using your computer for video conferencing, streaming, or sound editing, then a higher quality sound card is worth the added costs.

The brand of the computer does not mean as much as the other considerations offered by the different manufacturers. When buying a laptop don’t forget to compare add-on accessories and compatibility, warranties, customer service and service ratings, system support, and system upgrades and ability.

Filed Under: Computers Tagged With: ,

Communication: Conversing using your computer

Individuals are social creatures that have a desire to chat. The Internet makes chatting with individuals who share the same hobbies, ideas, and interests both easy and fun. So sit back, pull out your laptop, and get ready to try one of the following:

Instant Messaging

IM is a type of text-based real-time communication service that enables you to converse with two or more individuals via a personal computer or other devices over the Internet. It alerts you when individuals in your contact list are online and available to initiate chat sessions.

IM features include:

  • Real-time chat
  • Chat rooms and private chat
  • Link, file, image, and video sharing
  • Live voice chat over the Internet
  • Content streaming

The most popular Instant Messaging services on the market include AIM, Windows Live, and Yahoo! Messenger.

Virtual Worlds

Virtual Worlds bring online chatting to a new dimension. Its users create customized avatars and a virtual location, allowing other users to inhabit and interact in a 3D world.

Virtual World features include:

  • Text
  • Avatars
  • Visual gestures
  • Graphical icons
  • Sounds
  • Voice commands

Virtual Worlds of interest include World of Warcraft, Second Life, Moove Online, IMVU, and 3DChat.

Social Networks

Social network services connect individuals via a site or platform that focuses on building and creating relationships with other individuals that share common interests or activities.

Social network service features include:

  • Profiles
  • Pictures
  • Groups
  • Upload and streaming of videos
  • Private chat rooms
  • Forums
  • Blogs

The most popular social networks include Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter.

VoIP

Voice over Internet Protocol is the delivery of media and voice communication sessions using any of the transmission technology or methodology over an internet protocol network.  The benefits of this include the reduction of communication and infrastructure costs. The system is flexible and can facilitate the following tasks or services:

  • Transmission of multiple phone calls over a single broadband connection
  • Secure calls utilizing standardized protocols
  • Requires only a fast and stable internet connection to a VoIP provider
  • Integration of services including conferencing, video chat, data or file transfers, and the management of contact lists.
Filed Under: Computers, Hardware Tagged With: , , ,

Desktop Computers: Tips for buying a computer

Purchasing a computer is a big and costly decision that requires a bit of research. The following is a guideline of tips and requirements to keep in mind when making your purchase:

New or Used

Analyze the pros and cons of purchasing a new computer system versus one that has been refurbished. Traditionally a refurbished computer is one that has been previously owned and examined by the manufacturer for defects or other issues before reselling to a consumer. When buying a refurbished computer do the following:

  • Inspect the system for any signs of damage by examining ports and running the operating system
  • Make sure the operating system and all programs installed on the system come with CDs and manuals
  • Obtain a warranty for the system to guarantee maintenance or replacement

Operating System

Most people purchase a system with an operating system they are already familiar with using. Unsure which one is right for you? Then consider reading reviews on the advantages and disadvantages of different operating systems including Windows and MAC.

Components

To configure a system, you need components. Take into consideration your system requirements when deciding on the following:

  • What type of case do you want; tower or desktop? Consider desk configuration, space, and later upgrades to system.
  • Do you require additional CD media to burn CDs or DVDs?
  • Does the hard drive have enough space and the correct amount of speed? Will you need additional external or internal hard drives?
  • What type of memory does the system come with? Can it be upgraded easily and what are the costs?
  • What type of processor does it have? Check out all the options available.
  • Are you using the computer for gaming or high graphics? Does the video card GPU and memory meet your specific requirements?
  • Plan on editing or mixing sound? Are the sound card capabilities sufficient?

Considerations

It is impossible to say which brand of computer is better than another as everyone has an opinion. Instead, take a look at the extra options offered by the manufacturers:

  • What add-on accessories are available, the costs, and are other accessories compatible?
  • Check out the return policy and other warranties that come with your system
  • What kind of service and support is available to the consumer? Are there costs involved and are they available 24/7?

Buying a computer requires quite a bit of research and consideration, but taking the time now will save you both time and money later on.

Filed Under: Computers, Operating Systems Tagged With: ,

Computer: Keyboard and other shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts are key strokes that perform the same commands as items on the program menu. They are a quicker more direct route and involve depressing two or more keys simultaneously.

A computer user can find shortcut keys in any program application by looking for underlined letters in the drop down menus. Software packages such as Microsoft share the same shortcut keys throughout their applications.

Here is a list of the most common shortcut keys for IBM compatible systems:

  • Cntrl + A

Selects all text on the page for ease of copying, highlighting, deleting, or changing font

  • Cntrl + B

Bolds selected text

  • Cntrl + C

Copies selected text to the clipboard

  • Cntrl +V

Pastes selected text from clipboard into document

  • Cntrl + Home

Places your cursor at the beginning of the document

  • Cntrl  + End

Places your cursor at the end of the document

  • Cntrl + S

Saves the document

Ever wonder what F1 – F12 on your keyboard are and what they do? These are forms of keyboard shortcuts called function keys. They vary between operating systems, but Microsoft Windows users enjoy the simplicity of their tasks.

  • F1 – help key
  • F2 – rename
  • F3 – search
  • F4 – opens find window
  • F5 – refresh
  • F6 – moves cursor to address bar
  • F7 – spell check
  • F8 – opens Windows startup menu
  • F9 – sends email or opens toolbars
  • F10 – activates menu bar
  • F11 – makes application full screen
  • F12 – opens save window

Another type of shortcut is a desktop shortcut. Desktop shortcuts are icons used to represent a program, file, folder, or document that are save to your computer’s desktop. They make it easy to locate and launch an application with just a double-click of the icon.

To create a desktop shortcut:

  1. From the desktop, right-click where the shortcut should be displayed
  2. A menu will appear requiring you to select “new” and then the option “shortcut”
  3. Enter the path for the application or select “browse” to locate it
  4. Once the path has been entered, click “next” and then “finished”
  5. Your new shortcut icon is now on your desktop

Using shortcuts make computer usage quicker, easier, and more fun to use.

Filed Under: Computers Tagged With: ,

Computers: Operating Systems

An operating system is a software application that facilitates the communication and operation between the computer’s hardware and software. A computer is unable to function without an operating system.

Common Operating Systems

  • Microsoft Windows

With more than 85% of the market share, Microsoft Windows is the most widely used operating system for personal computers.

  • UNIX

This operating system is used heavily for academic and engineering environment workstations and for servers for businesses.

  • Linux

Linux is a widely adoptable system for use with embedded systems and servers. It is used in a wide variety of devices including wristwatches and supercomputers.

Operating systems perform tasks in order to recognize keyboard input, send output to display, keep track of directories and files, and control peripheral devices including printers and disk drives.

For larger systems and networks, the responsibilities of an operating system include making sure that the different users and programs running simultaneously do not interfere with one another and ensuring the security against unauthorized users from accessing the system.

Computer operating system applications often times fall into more than one of the below types:

  • GUI

Also known as Graphical User Interface, GUI uses keyboard shortcuts and arrow keys, windows, menus, and icons to open, move, delete, etc. files. Examples include Windows 98 and System 7.x

  • Multi-user

The operating system does exactly what the name implies; multi-users utilizing the same computer programs at the same or differing times. Examples include Linux, UNIX, and Windows 2000.

  • Multiprocessing

This operating system supports and utilizes multiple computer processors. Examples include Linux, UNIX, and Windows 2000.

  • Multitasking

Multitasking is an operating system that permits more than one program to run at the same time. Examples include UNIX and Windows 2000.

  • Multithreading

This operating system allows different parts of a single software program to run in tandem. Examples include Linux, UNIX, and Windows 2000.

An operating system provides a platform for which other applications can run and these applications must be written to run on top of the selected operating system. Therefore, the choice of operating system is determined by the applications the user plans on running on his system.

Filed Under: Computers, Operating Systems Tagged With: ,
« Older Posts
Newer Posts »