This Blog is all about learning the functions of a computer and the basics of computing. This Blog is mainly targeted at the elderly community, who are willing to take time out and go through this simple and easy tutorial.
Information about the hardware most likely used by the user
Reference - http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/Parts-of-a-computer
If you use a desktop computer, you might already know that there isn't any single part called the "computer." A computer is really a system of many parts working together. The physical parts, which you can see and touch, are collectively called hardware.
System unit
The system unit is the core of a computer system. Usually it's a rectangular box placed underneath your desk. Inside this box are many electronic components that process information. The most important of these components is the central processing unit (CPU) which acts as the Brain of the computer.
Mouse
A mouse is a small device used to point to and select items on your computer screen. Although mice come in many shapes, the typical mouse does look a bit like an actual mouse.
A mouse usually has two buttons: a primary button (usually the left button) and a secondary button. Many mice also have a wheel between the two buttons, which allows you to scroll smoothly through screens of information.
Keyboard
A keyboard is used mainly for typing text into your computer. Like the keyboard on a typewriter, it has keys for letters and numbers, but it also has special keys:
The function keys, found on the top row, perform different functions depending on where they are used.
The numeric keypad, located on the right side of most keyboards, allows you to enter numbers quickly.
The navigation keys, such as the arrow keys, allow you to move your position within a document or webpage.
Monitor
A monitor displays information in visual form, using text and graphics. The portion of the monitor that displays the information is called the screen. Like a television screen, a computer screen can show still or moving pictures.
Printer
A printer transfers data from a computer onto paper. You don't need a printer to use your computer, but having one allows you to print email, cards, invitations, announcements, and other materials. Many people also like being able to print their own photos at home.
Speakers
Speakers are used to play sound. They may be built into the system unit or connected with cables. Speakers allow you to listen to music and hear sound effects from your computer.
Modem
To connect your computer to the Internet, you need a modem. A modem is a device that sends and receives computer information over a telephone line or high-speed cable.
Cable Modem
When you first Boot your computer you will see the Desktop with icons and a background picture (For an example the one shown below). The desktop is also the main working space on your computer screen. You can also open windows on your desktop and browse the directories on your computer. Most operating systems allow you to choose your desktop background, which can either be a picture or a pattern.
Some basic functions that you are able to preform on the Desktop are:
- Changing Icon sizes
- To change the icons size just right click anywhere on the desktop and select "View" once the Dropdown menu appears from there choose which size suits you from Large, Medium or Small.
- To change the icons size just right click anywhere on the desktop and select "View" once the Dropdown menu appears from there choose which size suits you from Large, Medium or Small.
- Changing the Background
- Right-click anywhere on the desktop background and select "Personalize" from the dropdown menu. From there you can choose the background tab and add themes for your computer's interface.
How to send an em@il?
An email account is like your own post box on the internet. Each email account comes with an email address that typically has the format someone@somewhere. There are hundreds, if not thousands of free email service providers and choosing one can be sort of tricky. The best bet is to pick up an email account from one of the three leading providers - Google, Microsoft or Yahoo!
There are just three things you need to send an email to someone:
- The recipient's email address: you will not be able to send the email without one.
- The email subject: this is like a one line description of the contents. Putting a subject to your message is not a requirement though advisable.
- The message: again, not required, but why would you like to send a blank email to someone?
How to print something of a PC
With a already set up computer and printer connected it is easy to print something. The most basic way of printing is off Microsoft Word:
- After opening a file that you would like to print…
- Navigate your way to the Printers properties all done in the program (See picture).
- After you have adjusted your printing properties just click "OK".
How to create a folder?
Create A New Folder
Folders are the basic organizational building blocks of any computer system. Without folders it would be virtually impossible to keep track of all the files that are found on even the smallest system. New folders can be created just about anywhere
All you have to do is right-click anywhere on an open area of the desktop. Select New and then click Folder. A new folder with the default name New Folder will be created on the desktop. Either accept the default name New Folder by hitting the enter key or type a new name for the folder and then hit enter on the keyboard.
How to search the internet
Searching the internet is a simple and fast process if you are searching through an "Engine Search" for example GOOGLE. Just open the internet viva you're Desktop and search Google.com in the address bar.
After doing so press enter and the web page will appear…
Now just type into the box the keywords you would like to search for and the search Engine will organize the most important WebPages to the least important using the key words.
How to design a browser
Designing a Brochure is made simple in the 2007 edition if Microsoft Office Publisher.
Microsoft has created a step-by-step guide on creating numerous types of publications including labels, letters and postcards.
Please follow the following steps on how to create a Boucher:
- After opening the application, choose Boucher.
- Then pick the overall design of your Boucher and double click on it.
- To conclude there are options on the left most side of the screen, which include – Page Options, Colour Schemes and Front Schemes.
