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Computer Basics
Section editor
APC
mmtk@apc.org
Introduction
The computer is a versatile and powerful tool for you and your organization. It enables you to work more effectively and to communicate with people around the world.
A computer is a machine that receives, processes, and stores information electronically. Computers can pass information to each other in the same way that telephones do. Because computers do so many things, it's important to keep in mind that this is a tool to help you do what you want.
Some of the things computers can enable you to do include:
- creating documents
- accounting and calculating
- sending and receiving e-mail messages
- finding information
- publishing information
In the Computer Basics section we provide information on how to set up and maintain your computer, how to use common office productivity tools, and how to avoid injury and fatigue while using a computer. Don't be afraid to get to know your computer inside and out! Once you get started you'll wonder how you ever got along without it.
7 Tips to Managing your Files Better
Developed by: Microsoft Support
Type of resource: website
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
Simple tips for file management in Microsoft Windows, such as keeping document files separate from programme files, using thumbnail images for easy file identification, and storing similar file types in the same places to facilitate easy access.
Dhttp://www.microsoft.com/atwork/manageinfo/files.m
spx
A Guide to Troubleshooting PCs
Developed by: Dirk Slater
Type of resource: Web guide
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
"Since computers have so many different functions and so many different elements working together on the same system (software, peripherals, etc.) the potential for problems is quite high. Programs can stop running properly, or even worse, the computer itself can fail to even start. If you are the person with the job of looking after the organisation's PCs and IT infrastructure, then this article should help."
Dhttp://www.icthubknowledgebase.org.uk/troubleshoot
ingpcs
An Introduction to Personal Computing
Developed by: University of Durham
Type of resource: PDF file
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
Guide aimed at people with little or no experience of computing which "describes the parts of a computer, explains how information is stored on a computer and what steps you should take to safeguard your computer-based information." Although written for users at the University of Durham it is useful for new computer users more generally.
Dhttp://www.dur.ac.uk/its/info/guides/24intro.pdf
Backing up your data
Developed by: One NorthWest
Type of resource: Web guide
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
This document outlines the hardware, software and procedures necessary to effectively and efficiently back up the key data from your computers. It includes hardware recommendations, software recommendations, and suggested tips on what specific items on your hard drive you most need to back up.
Dhttp://www.onenw.org/bin/page.cfm/pageid/8
Buying a Printer
Developed by: Lasa Information Systems
Type of resource: Web article
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
"Every organisation needs at least one printer. However, with massive choice spanning a wide range of options, how do you find your way to the right printer for the job?" This article by the Lasa Information Systems team will hekp you make an informed choice.
Dhttp://www.icthubknowledgebase.org.uk/buyingaprint
er2
Computer starting or running slowly?
Developed by: Lasa Information Systems Team
Type of resource: Web guide
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
"When you first acquired your shiny new PC or laptop you couldn’t believe how quick it was compared to your old one. The desktop appeared as if by magic and files opened at lightning speed. Then, over time, you realised that it was starting to take rather longer than it used to..." This article from the Lasa Information Systems Team looks at why this happens and links to resources to help you deal with it.
Dhttp://www.icthubknowledgebase.org.uk/slowcomputer
Copernic Desktop Search
Developed by: Copernic
Type of resource: downloadable program
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
As we have increased amounts and varietes of data on our computers, finding files becomes more difficult. Now there are many different "desktop search" utilities that can be downloaded for free. Copernic Desktop Search can be incorporated into a Window's desktop and can search all types of files, including music, picture and video formats, as well as common office suite files, all email, recently visited web pages, favorites listings, etc. Available in English, French, German, and Dutch.
Dhttp://www.copernic.com/en/products/desktop-search
/download.html
Digital Directions: Organise Your PC Files
Developed by: New Jersey City University
Type of resource: PDF
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
This simple document, though prepared in 2000, still gives good advice for basic document management in a PC setting.
http://www.njcu.edu/dept/its/support/pdfs/Organize_Your_PC_Files.pdf
Dhttp://www.njcu.edu/dept/its/support/pdfs/Organize
_Your_PC_Files.pdf
Editor's choice: Video: Computer Hardware in Plain English
Developed by: Common Craft
Type of resource: online video
Target audience: General, Trainers
Cost: Free access
A short online video which explains of the basic parts of computers and what they do to make computers work. The video focuses on the Hard Drive, RAM and Processor. Very good video to show in Basic ICT training activities.
Dhttp://www.commoncraft.com/computer-hardware
Eleven Tips for Troubleshooting Software: Things to do before you call a tech-support hotline
Developed by: TechSoup
Type of resource: Web articles
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
"Your computer software — be it a Web browser or a donor database application — likely plays a crucial role in your nonprofit's day-to-day operations. So when software problems such as unexplained crashes and strange error messages begin to occur, your workday can unceremoniously come to a silent (or not-so-silent) standstill." TechSoup looks at some solutions.
Dhttp://www.techsoup.org/learningcenter/software/pa
ge6149.cfm
Freezes and crashes
Developed by: Rutgers University
Type of resource: Web guide
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
Simple explanation of computer "freezes" and "crashes" and what you can do about them.
Dhttp://getit.rutgers.edu/tutorials/freezes_crashes
/index.html
Glossary of Computer Term Definitions
Developed by: Sharpened.net
Type of resource: web site
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
Sharpened.net - Your Free Computer and Internet Resource offers
an excellent, comprehensive listing of computer terms, with easy-to-grasp explanations.
Dhttp://www.sharpened.net/glossary/
Helping others to help you — effectively communicating your ICT problems
Developed by: Lasa Information Systems Team
Type of resource: Web guide
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
Getting the most out of your technical support requires explaining the problem in clear terms. The Lasa Information Systems Team shows you what to look for and how to communicate your problems effectively.
Dhttp://www.icthubknowledgebase.org.uk/communicatin
gproblems
How do I use a scanner?
Developed by: BBC Webwise
Type of resource: Web article
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
The absolute basics of scanner use.
Dhttp://www.bbc.co.uk/webwise/askbruce/articles/sca
ncam/usescan_1.shtml
How to Migrate to a New PC
Developed by: John Clyman, PC Magazine
Type of resource: website
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
This article explores three programmes for migrating vital computer information (ie address books, documents, e-mail, photos, links to preferred sites, specialised applications, etc.) to a new computer. It suggests thoughtful steps for planning a migration before launching into the how-tos of migration for two for-purchase specialty applications (Alohabob and Desktop DNA) as well as the Windows XP migration tool.
Dhttp://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1895,1819031,00.as
p
Instant Reference Guide to Creating DVDs and CDs
Developed by: Melissa J. Perenson, PC World
Type of resource: website
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
A guide to the burning process for DVDs and CDs. It covers the basics of burning, including write speeds, drag and drop data, multi-sessions, and data verification. It also highlights "CD quirks" and how to copy VHS to DVD.
Dhttp://www.pcworld.com/howto/article/0,aid,117720,
00.asp
Listing Folder Contents in an MS Word File
Developed by: PC Magazine
Type of resource: website
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
These easy instructions are useful for creating an editable index or listing of the files on your computer.
Dhttp://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1895,1814463,00.as
p
Low-Power Computing
Developed by: IT +46
Type of resource: Downloadable PDF
Target audience: General, Trainers
Cost: Free access
A report/handout that discusses the requirements for the usage of a low power computers in rural environments, in hot and dusty locations, and powered to a solar backup system. The report lists some of the existing low power computing alternatives, and compares them with respect to different criteria, and draws conclusions about effective computing solutions for rural areas.
Dhttp://www.it46.se/courses/ict4sd/2008/projects/IC
T4SD_dematte_palmisano.pdf
MainTain IT Cookbook: Small and Rural Libraries
Developed by: The MaintainIT Project
Type of resource: Downloadable PDF
Target audience: General, Trainers, Information intermediaries
Cost: Free access
This Cookbook covers fundamentals that are valuable for any library, and is a great resource for someone wanting to know a bit more about supporting and sustaining public computers. Learn about locking down public computers, use a handy maintenance checklist, and more! These topics are covered: technology Planning, Computer Maintenance, Volunteer Recruitment, Technology Training Tips, Library Technology in the Future
Dhttp://maintainitproject.org/cookbooks/small-and-r
ural-libraries
OpenICDL
Developed by: Go-Open Campaign / ICDL Foundation Africa
Type of resource: Web site
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
"OpenICDL is an open source project that aims to develop and maintain a Free/Open Source version of the training materials used to ready students for the International Computer Driving License certification.\" Materials cover Basic Concepts of IT, Using a Computer and Managing Files (K Desktop Environment), Word Processing (OpenOffice.org Writer), Spreadsheets (OpenOffice.org Calc), Databases (OpenOffice DB), Presentations (OpenOffice.org Impress) and Information and Communications (Mozilla 1.4 and Ximian Evolution 1.4). Materials are available in HTML and PDF versions.
Dhttp://icdl.tsf.org.za/courseware.html
Peter's Online Typing Course
Developed by: Peter Hudson
Type of resource: Web course (uses Macromedia Flash)
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
"By the time you finish this course, you will be able to confidently type all the letters, numbers and the most common symbols, with proper ten-finger touch typing technique."
Dhttp://www.typing-lessons.org/
Windows Vista: An FAQ for Nonprofits
Developed by: TechSoup
Type of resource: Web article
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
"Windows Vista, Microsoft's first new major operating system (OS) since the launch of the Windows XP line in 2001, is due to hit stores on January 30. Vista's launch has already generated some questions about upgrading, new features, tech support, and whether now is a good time to migrate your computers to this new OS." To help you make informed decisions about Vista, TechSoup has answered some questions which they think nonprofits will be most concerned with.
Dhttp://www.techsoup.org/learningcenter/software/pa
ge6113.cfm
Editor's choice: Information as an Organisational Asset
Developed by: Summit Collaborative
Type of resource: web site
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
This article outlines the impact of disorganised information in any initiative, the benefits of seeing information as an asset, and gives pointers to becoming an "information leader" to ensure procedures and staff information management training.
Dhttp://www.techsoup.com/howto/articlepage.cfm?Arti
cleId=349&topicid=11
How to sit at a computer
Developed by: Ergonomics in Australia
Type of resource: Online tip sheet
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
Four steps to setting up your computer workstation for comfortable computing.
Dhttp://www.ergonomics.com.au/howtosit.htm
It hurts right here . . .
Developed by: Mark Dohrmann
Type of resource: Online tip sheet.
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
Tips for making your workspace more comfortable and relieving aches and pains.
Dhttp://www.ergonomics.com.au/officetips.htm
Mouse Ergonomics
Developed by: Charles H. Booras
Type of resource: http://jaxmed.com/articles/wellness/mouseErgo.html
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
Whether you spend five minutes or five hours using your mouse or trackball, these suggestions can help you stay comfortable and productive.
Dhttp://jaxmed.com/articles/wellness/mouseErgo.html
A 10-Step Tune-Up For Improving the Performance Of Your Windows PC
Developed by: Kris Driessen/Wise-Women
Type of resource: Web article
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
Ten basic steps for maintaining your Windows 3.x - Windows 98 PC.
Dhttp://www.wise-women.org/tutorials/tuneup/
Course for Technical Service Centre Managers
Developed by: SchoolNet Africa
Type of resource: Online tutorial
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
Aimed in the first instance at the education sector, this self-paced online course from SchoolNet Africa covers all the steps involved in setting up, running, and maintaining a technical support, training and service centre.
Dhttp://www.schoolnetafrica.net/fileadmin/1MillionP
CsTraining/Index.htm
Five Steps to Extend Your Computer’s Life
Developed by: TechSoup
Type of resource: Web guide
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
John Avellanet sets out a five step routine to help keep your computer healthy.
Dhttp://www.techsoup.org/learningcenter/hardware/pa
ge6006.cfm
PC Troubleshooting for Library Personnel: Workshop Materials
Developed by: INASP
Type of resource: Website with PDFs and other downloadable documents
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
The aim of this training pack is to enable each institution to develop a realistic PC troubleshooting diagnostic procedure appropriate to their circumstances.
These workshop materials consist of all of the materials that would be needed to run the full, four day workshop. The workshop materials include; presentation slides (with accompanying speakers notes), participant handouts and exercises, administrative documents and support guidelines. All materials are in a mixture of MS Word and Powerpoint formats.
Dhttp://www.inasp.info/file/651/pc-troubleshooting-
for-library-personnel-workshop-materials.html
What to Do When Things Go Wrong
Developed by: Mathew P. Graven, PC Magazine
Type of resource: website
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
PC Magazine runs through a list of 10 practical tips to help yourself when a computer problem arises. Focussed on Windows and PC solutions, the tips vary from checking cables to using basic Windows features to update or roll back versions of drivers or operating systems. It also provides simple diagnostic tips. Finally, depending on the problem area, there is a list of helpful support sites listed by software types (Word, Excel, Word Perfect, Adobe, Windows, etc).
Dhttp://www.pcmag.com/print_article2/0,1217,a=12084
5,00.asp
Windows Support Centre
Developed by: James Eshelman
Type of resource: Web site
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
Trouble starting up or shutting down Windows? James Eshelman provides advanced Windows tips and troubleshooting advice.
Dhttp://www.aumha.org/
Optimizing PDF Files
Developed by: PCMag
Type of resource: Web article
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
Tips for optimizing PDF creation using Adobe Acrobat and other PDF writers.
Dhttp://www.pcmag.com/print_article2/0,2533,a=15424
8,00.asp
Introduction to WinZip
Developed by: Delaware County Community College
Type of resource: Web tutorial
Target audience: General
Cost: Free access
What WinZip is and how to use it.
Dhttp://learn.dccc.edu/~lori/tutorials/winzip/
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