Using your computer

We all need to be computer literate. Even the most basic of jobs demands skills in word processing or computerised bookkeeping. From Primary school level, students are learning computer skills as a compulsory subject, and entertainment today involves the use of computer games and the Internet. Whatever the reason you purchased your computer, you can learn how to use it no matter what age you are. Children will quickly develop new skills that will make their learning at school easier. If you have been looking at the various computers on the market, and have been confused in deciding whether the specifications quoted will meet your needs, these points should help.

CPU
Computers come with different brands of processors, (”Central Processing Unit” or ”CPU’s”) such as Intel’s Pentium/Celeron series, AMD’s K6/Athlon/Duron series, and Cyrix’s 6x86 MX series. We use these chips on our different models, for reasons of cost, or better performance. top

RAM - MEMORY
Computers need memory to temporarily store data. This is called ”RAM”, (Random Access Memory). The more RAM the computer has, the faster it will run (to a certain extent) and the greater number of simultaneous programs, as it takes the load off the hard disk among other things. Fitting extra memory is a good way of improving performance, and can usually be done by a technician within a few minutes. There should be sufficient memory fitted for your immediate needs. top

HARD DISK
The Hard Disk is a device inside the computer that stores the programs and data that you use from day to day. The Windows operating system is stored on the Hard Disk, and loads when you switch on the computer. Programs/files can be erased on this device should the user want to. Disk sizes are measured in Gigabytes (Gb), and the larger the number of Gigabytes, the greater amount of data can be stored on the Hard Disk.

For the novice user, the size of the hard disk fitted in your computer should be adequate for your immediate needs, and if you later run out of disk space and don’t want to remove the programs you have, then a second hard disk or larger one can be easily fitted.  top

CD-ROM
The CD-ROM’s speed is relative to the speed of an audio CD, so a "48 speed" CD-ROM will run up to 48 times faster than the standard audio CD (which is measured at 150kbps). That does not mean that the CD-ROM is running at that speed all the time. You can also play your music CD’s on your computer, and listen to them through the computer speakers. top

VIDEO
The graphics or video card (called a ”card”, because it is a modular card that plugs into the computer’s main board) fitted to a computer has its own memory (RAM). The more RAM fitted, the better it will perform on graphical images. Some of the newer games require a second high-performance 3D graphics card, (such as the Voodoo 3DfX) to work properly, This can be added at extra cost if required. The supplied graphics card can be upgraded at any time. top

FIRST TIME USER
If you are using a computer for the first time, we recommend that you use our services to install the system, and explain its operation to you. These following points will help; ring us for assistance if required.  top

Turn on the computer with the front panel power switch, and wait while it loads the operating system and various programs (like anti-virus utilities). Before switching off, Windows 95/98/Me/2000/XP must first be shut down, using the ”shut down” command from the Windows start menu.

USING THE MOUSE
Practice using the mouse. Double clicking the left button brings up a program, (Click twice in rapid succession) clicking once is for bringing up a menu. Learn to ”drag and click” the mouse over text, this is needed for editing your word processing applications. Some games may require a patch file. See the software notes for an explanation.

Many Windows users prefer now to set their mouse settings so that they only have to single click to execute a program, or simply move the mouse over an icon to highlight/select it.  top

LEARN AND ENJOY
Learn to do simple things first. Some novice users immediately try to write up assignments, play complex games, use programs to keep track of their money, and get on the Internet. They quickly find that there is a lot to learn, and become discouraged. Learning to drive a car takes time, and so does learning to use a computer! Familiarise yourself with the desktop functions first, and then try playing one of the card games, like Solitaire, as this will improve your skills with the mouse. When you feel comfortable doing these things, try using the Word processor. Type a sentence, and then try editing any mistakes you have made. Next print the document.

BUYING SOFTWARE
Be cautious about buying software, as it is expensive! It is easy to convince yourself that you need the latest game or office program, only to find that when you get to use it, it doesn’t do what you expected. Also, some software may be poorly documented. It may have impressive packaging, but the ”manual” supplied may amount to a briefly worded leaflet, or at the opposite extreme, a large manual with complex, technical wording. Although this won’t be a problem for the experienced user, it may limit the intended use which you purchased it for. Where possible, find somebody that has bought the program you had in mind to purchase, and find out the advantages and drawbacks. You may be able to obtain a demo version, and try before you buy. top

ERROR MESSAGES
Error messages will occur! The new user may occasionally find that error messages will come up on the screen saying;

”This program has performed an illegal operation and will shut down”,
”Windows encountered a problem at 078FH and is not responding”,
”There is insufficient memorv to run this application ”
”A fatal error has occurred and this program will.shut down ”

These messages appear on a blue screen, and one could be forgiven in thinking that the computer has developed a major fault. Other times the computer may ”freeze”, and the only way out is to turn the computer off and then on again. Causes for these errors vary: Incorrectly installed software, or poorly written software. Software incompatiblity. Memory error. Video card error, etc. Contact us for further advice if needed - see if you can replicate the problem by noting what program or function you were using. When our technicians are able to replicate the problem, then remedying it is usually only a matter of minutes.

It is essential to be patient! A program takes time going through its operating procedure, even on the fastest computer. While it is doing this, an hourglass will appear, next to the mouse pointer. Until this goes away, don’t attempt to use the program. If you do, an error message may appear.

If you know very little about how to use the programs on your computer, and can’t get practical help as you go along, then you may want to consider doing one of the many fine TAFE part time computer courses on offer. They aren’t expensive, and you will quickly learn the skills neeessary to obtain the full use of yeur computer. Contact Classic IT Support for advice on the courses available.

Sometimes these messages may be caused by a fault in the computer such as defective memory or corrupt program or user files.. If your systems crashes, as the computer re-boots, another message will appear telling you that the computer was not properly shut down, and will run a program called ”Scan Disk” to correct any errors on the hard disk. This is a normal Windows function, and occurs as a protective measure.   top

SOFTWARE
The Windows (or other operating system) software is already pre-loaded on your new computer, and you should not try to install Windows from the CD that is part of the software package. If you do, it will corrupt the installed software, requiring repairs to damaged files or re-loading the operating system. This is not covered by warranty. Normally, all the software that was ordered with the computer will be pre-loaded.

The original CD and/or floppy disks for the programs you ordered are supplied, along with a number of utility disks and their related installation manuals. Should you need to re-install these programs on the computer’s hard drive, then these disks will be needed. In some cases, a serial number that comes with the manual will need to be entered before the program can be loaded. This software should be kept in a safe place, as you may have to purchase the program again, should you lose the disk or manual that came with it. We advise you to register the programs on the computer with the software manufacturer, as you will have access to updates and support.

Your supplied software (including Windows 98) is licensed to be used on the computer you have purchased only. It is illegal to make copies for another user, or to install the programs you have on a second machine, even if it is for your personal use. You may only install your software on another computer if you first erase that program from the machine that it was originally installed on. The terms of software licenses are complex, and we suggest you read the conditions of use as detailed in the manuals supplied. If still in doubt, then please contact the software manufacturer for further clarification. top

If you intend connecting to the Internet, Microsoft Internet Explorer and Outlook Express are an integral part of Windows 98, and installing the settings from an Internet service provider (ISP) is straightforward. Many ISP’s supply an Intemet installation kit in the form of floppy disk or CD, but this may contain older or incompatible software that will degrade the performance of your computer. Some ISP’s may argue that the Microsoft Internet Explorer is inferior to Netscape. That is debatable, but regardless of which Web browser is best, you may be in for problems if you follow their advice. If you don’t know how to set up an Internet account, then get it professionally done, it will be worth it in the long run. top

SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY
When buying software, we strongly advise that you buy software that is Windows 95/98/NT/Me/2000/XP compatible. This is especially true of older game software. Problems can occur when older software tries to set up a sound or video driver in opposition to the installed drivers of Windows.

Windows will run MS-DOS based programs, but if you aren’t sure of the implications of what you are installing on your computer, get advice first. As some computers come fitted with AMD or IBM processors, (CPU’s) a few of the newer games which are designed to work with Intel processors, (eg. Links LS) may cause problems. A patch file is usually available from their website to make it work with other CPU’s. Fortunately this is a rare situation.     top

In addition to the programs you will want to use such as word processing, spread-sheet, games and finance packages, there are a large number of ”add on” programs available, designed to make your computer easier and/or more user friendly to use. Such programs include crash guard, memory expansion, desktop enhancement, speed-search programs for the Internet and security features. We advise you to be very careful before installing such software. While some of these programs offer worthwhile features, others have dubious benefits, and some can adversely affect the performance of your computer.  top

VIRUSES
One major problem for computer users is that of computer viruses. A virus is a program that is designed to interfere with the normal operation of the computer, and can range from putting amusing messages on your screen to destroying all your data. They may originate from computer ”hackers”, or by a person/s wanting to ruin the data on a network of computers. The newer viruses are anything but harmless, and can be very difficult to detect and remove. They can enter the computer via a floppy disk, through the Internet, or transferring data from one computer to another via a cable connection. It is essential to install an anti-virus program, which detects a virus in the computer’s hard disk or memory. Part of the anti-virus program’s function is
to kill the virus, and remove any offending files. As new viruses are being written each month, it is not good enough to install an anti virus program when the computer is new, and expect it to detect all the new viruses that come along as the months go by. Updates for the anti-virus program you are using from your software retailer or the Internet are essential. All our computers are now installed  with Anti-Virus software, but if the computer is not being purchased with an Internet connection, the latest virus update may not be installed.   top

CONTACTING SOFTWARE MANUFACTURERS
If you need to contact the software manufacturer for help in using a program, phone numbers are given to ring for assistance. Be warned that you may be ringing an eastern states number at full STD rates, and will usually be made to wait for a considerable amount of time before getting connected to a person who can assist you. Many software suppliers (including Microsoft) will charge you for the help they give, irrespective of what the problem is that you may have.

Finally, as can happen with a car, breakdowns on your computer can occur for any reason. Should this happen, repair of your machine is a straightforward matter, as our computers conform to the internationally accepted IBM PC standard. What is not always possible in some cases is to retrieve program and data files that have been stored on the hard disk. Your files can also be destroyed as a result of incorrectly loaded software or a virus. If the computer is used for word processing, games and the Internet, then the loss of all your files may not matter. If you have important documents, financial records and databases stored on your disk, then it is essential to back up your files from day to day. If they aren’t large in size, (< 1.4Mb) then they
can be backed up on a floppy disk. If that is too small, then purchase a tape drive, CD writer or ZIP drive. These aren’t expensive, especially when compared to the cost of lost data, which can be incalculable. We can supply and fit these devices  as needed.    top

Classic IT Support and Classic IT Support is not responsible for the loss of data on your computer, even if the cause was due to a fault on the machine within the warranty period. You MUST back up all your essential data if your files are important to you.

Problems with your computer that result from incorrectly installed software are not covered by warranty.  top

MODEM
All our computers are fitted with an internal Modem. This is a device that allows the computer to connect to a telephone line, enabling you to use the computer as a Fax, or to connect to the Internet. The speed of the Modem is 56.6K bps (baud, or bits per second) using the K56 flex and V90 standard. Despite this 56.6K rating, you should be aware that it is rarely possible to obtain maximum speed down the average phone line. Even if when connecting to the Internet, the dial-up adaptor indicator suggests that you are connecting at the full speed, this may not be the case.

In the country, modem speeds are often slower the further you are from your telephone exchange.

Modems can be damaged during an electrical storm, and it is advisable to disconnect the phone line from the Modem, until the storm has passed. If the Modem is damaged this way, it is not covered by warranty. Some modems have two connections on the back panel, one labelled ”LINE” and the other ”PHONE”. The cable going to the telephone wall outlet should connect to the ”LINE” socket. Your telephone can plug into the ”PHONE” socket if desired. If you have the ”call waiting” facility on your telephone, then it should be disabled when using your Modem, as a call coming in will cause the program to ”crash”. top

YEAR 2000 (MILLENNIUM BUG)
All our computers are certified to be year 2000 (Y2K) compliant. Owners should be aware that this might not be the case with some software you may wish to install. If the computer is being used for business use, then you may need to get your software checked, as required by your Bank, and/or the ASC. We can advise you about this.    top

UPGRADES
Some owners may wish to add extra hardware to their computer. (Eg. Video, graphics, SCSI and sound cards) This will require opening up the case, installing the card, and its associated software. Providing this does not interfere with the operation of the supplied components in the computer, the warranty will not be affected. You should be careful not to overload the power supply, or obstruct airways that affect the cooling. Of particular concern is the installation of driver software, which may disable some functions such as sound, CD and graphics performance. Problems resulting from adding such components are not covered by warranty. If you are increasing the memory, (RAM) in some cases the chips may need to be matched to avoid freezing or crashing. Please get advice from us first before going ahead. With hard drives increasing in size from year to year, it could be that you might need special software for your computer to recognise a larger disk drive.

If, over a period of time you feel you need better performance from your computer that newer technology can provide, (such as the installation of a new motherboard or hard disk) then it shouldn’t be a problem, as all our computers are built to the IBM PC standard, of which parts are plentiful. You do need to consider the economics of a major upgrade, as it may be cheaper to sell the system you have, and purchase a current model computer instead. Major upgrades to your computer (eg. motherboard and CPU) will void the warranty. top

PRINTER
For your printer to work, you first must install the printer’s software (driver) in the Windows 98 program. While Windows has a range of printer drivers to choose from that may be applicable to your printer, you should instead use the software (floppy disk or CD) that came with your printer. The reason for this is that there are utility functions and fonts included that the basic Windows drivers lack.   top

MOUSE
Of all the components in the computer, the mouse is the most vulnerable to wear and tear. The track ball picks up grease and grit and deposits this on the sensing rollers within a short period of time, making it difficult to obtain a smooth operation. This can be fixed by opening the ball cover of the mouse on the underside, removing the ball, and cleaning the tracking rollers. You should gently prod away at the offending debris with a blunt tool, (such as a match) until it is all removed.

You will find that the latest optical mice now alleviate this lint problem.    top

POWER SURGES
Classic IT Support computers are designed to operate from a mains supply ranging from 220 volts to 260 volts AC, @ 50Hz. In practice, small mains fluctuations should not affect normal operation. Massive power surges however, will damage the computer, and this is a problem in some country areas. Using the computer in an electrical storm is not recommended, as power surges can occur.

Protective devices that fit between the power point and the computer’s mains cord can be of some benefit, but they don’t offer total protection where excess power surges occur. If your computer is used in a business environment and the risk of the computer crashing due to supply problems is of some concern, then we recommend the use of an uninterruptable power supply. Contact us for further details.      top

INTERNET
If you are using a computer for the first time, we strongly urge you to wait until you have become familiar with its operation before connecting to the Internet. Once you have learned how to use the mouse and call up programs, learning to use the Web-browser and E-mail will be a straightforward matter.

If it is your intention to connect to the Internet, find out exactly what your Internet service provider (ISP) offers in the way of the number of connections, contracts and time restrictions. It is not much use subscribing to an ISP that offers cheap monthly rates if you can’t get on the Internet until late at night, or the service is slow or unreliable. Ask others who use their service what problems they might have had.     top

If you are using your Modem on a line that has a phone or a fax machine connected to it, you may need to temporarily disable these devices while connected to the net, as they may cause the Modem to perform erratically. Contact us for advice on this.

It is essential that your ISP settings (such as Proxy, DNS, mail server and Modem dial-in) be correctly entered into your Explorer and Mail programs. If any of this information is wrong, your Internet service will not work satisfactorily. Your ISP will provide this, but be careful about loading Internet setup CD’s or floppy disks they may provide. (See Software notes) No ISP provides a perfect, trouble-free service. There will be times when their equipment breaks down, or routine maintenance is carried out, and their Internet connection is very slow. Sometimes the mail can’t be downloaded, although it can be retrieved at a later stage.

If you experience problems like this, ring your ISP and speak to the on-duty technician there to discuss the problem. (All ISP’s provide this service, and are very helpful) Don’t be quick to blame your computer if these things happen.

If you are downloading a program on the Internet, it can take some time, especially if it is large in size. If you want to use your computer with another application, (such as a game) while you are waiting, the speed of operation will be reduced, as some of the computer’s memory is tied up on the download. Likewise, if you want to go to other Internet sites while downloading, the response will be very slow.   top

SERVICE
Most computer problems, including the replacement of parts can be sorted out on-site. As part of ourwarranty service, we come to you to repair your computer, provided it is located within the Perth metro or Avon Valley area. You should keep your sales receipt in a safe place, as it is a condition of the warranty that you supply proof of purchase at the time of the service call. Where the fault is of a time consuming or intermittent nature, we may advise that the computer be taken to our workshops, where we can thoroughly diagnose and fix the problem. While we try our best to offer a same day turn around, sometimes this is not always possible. If you need technical assistance, then it is just a phone call away.

Should your problem be software related, we will advise you over the phone that this might be the case, and will, if possible, help you to solve the problem without incurring the cost of a service call. Should it be necessary for us to re-load the Windows program, it will be left to the customer to install any other software they may have. We can load all your software, but this will
be charged for at our normal hourly rate.

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