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Deciding whether to leave your computer on all the time or
to turn it on and off as you need to use it has produced much controversy in
computer circles. Some say that turning your computer on and off several times
a day can cause unnecessary wear on the on-off switch, hard disk, and other
mechanical parts. Others worry about using unnecessary electricity if you keep
the computer on all the time.
When Windows first appeared, it was quite beneficial to turn
the computer off everyday so that all the Windows components could reset. This peculiarity
lasted all the way through Windows XP. I find that XP computers perform better
when they are turned off occasionally. The Vista operating system is better
written. I find that I can run it for days or even weeks without seeing any
benefit from rebooting. Also, many of the newer computers come with special
features to help conserve power.
In general though, here's a good rule of thumb. Avoid
turning your computer off and on constantly. If you know you will not be using
the computer for twelve hours or more, turn it off. Otherwise, leave it on.
If you have an older computer and you do leave it on all the time, it's a good
idea to turn it off once a week to let the computer reset itself.
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When you create a new document, name and save the document before you start working on it.
This will allow you to simply click on CTRL+S or hit the save icon to save the document more
quickly once you are involved in your work.
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The disks, documentation, and receipts that came with
your computer are very important. Gather this information in a large envelope
or small box. Computer specifications may be needed when calling a computer
manufacturer or a computer professional for technical support. This information
is also valuable when upgrading and/or repairing your computer.
Also be sure to save the original program disks and serial
numbers for any software that you purchase. If you download software, create a
CD or DVD with the program files and label it with the serial number for the
program.
Keep everything together in a safe place.
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Windows XP: Click on Start and choose My Computer. Under
System Tasks on the left side, click on View system information.
Windows Vista: The Vista Welcome Center gives you pertinent
information about your operating system at the top of the Welcome window. If
the Welcome Center is not on your screen when you start the computer, you can
access it by clicking the Welcome Center icon in the Control Panel. (Choose
Start, then Control Panel to access the Control Panel.
Macs: All Apple computers use the Mac Operating System. To determine which version
you are using, just click on the Apple menu and choose About This Computer.
Windows 95/98/Me: Hold down the ALT key and double-click on My Computer. The System Properties window
appears. The name and version of the operating system will be listed in the System area of that
window.
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To get to the calculator built into Windows. Click on Start - All Programs - Accessories.
Then choose Calculator. A small
calculator will pop up. You can use your mouse to click the numbers and
functions or you can use the numbers and/or number pad on your keyboard. To use
the numeric keypad to type numbers and operators, be sure to press the NUM LOCK
key first.
The Windows calculator works like a regular handheld
calculator for addition, subtraction, and other mathematical functions. It even
has functions like logarithms and factorials that are found in scientific
calculators.
If you think you will use the Calculator often, when you see
it on the list in the Accessories you
can right-click it and choose Send To.
Then choose To Desktop (create shortcut).
Remember that the calculator is a Window. So if you are
using the calculator and click on another document or file, that calculator
window will still be open, but may be beneath the other Window.
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