How to Operate a computer?

This procedure attempts to outline the basics in operating a computer system based on the assumption that it is running under the Microsoft Windows XP Operating System platform with normal components such as CD or DVD drive, Network Interface Card, and video card installed in the CPU. The steps outlined are formatted in such a way that it is applicable to the two most common computer system architectures: the desktop and the laptop. Essentially, a desktop computer is just what its name suggests. It is big enough to sit on the desk and is considered as the most common type of computer system. A laptop or sometimes referred to as a “notebook” is a smaller and more mobile version of the desktop machine and is normally used in the same manner but with relatively lower power requirements.

Materials Needed:

- CPU
- keyboard
- monitor
- mouse
- speakers
- printer
- Operating System

Step 1

Prior to powering up the computer system, make sure that the power cord is firmly connected to the back panel of the CPU and is plugged into the wall socket.

Step 2

Check if the video cable is firmly screwed to the port of the video card with the other end connected to the back panel of the monitor.

Step 3

Make sure that both the keyboard and mouse pointing device are securely plugged to the back panel. Also, check if they are connected to the correct port by checking on the markings. Steps 1 to 3 are essentially easy to do because aside from the mouse and keyboard devices, other components can only be plugged into their proper ports preventing the novice user from interchanging them.

Step 4

When all connections are secure, start up the machine by pressing the power button normally located in the front panel of the CPU.

Step 5

Depending on the configuration of the machine, a username and password may be requested; otherwise, the Operating System may be loaded directly to display the desktop to the user.

Step 6

Other basic operations that can be done include adjusting monitor settings in Step 8. Installation and launching of software is outlined in Step 10. Navigation of the file system is detailed from Step 15.

Step 7

The proper way to shut down or turn off the computer system is by clicking on the 'Start' button and choosing the 'Turn Off Computer' option. This will display the options to 'Standby', 'Restart', or 'Turn Off' the machine.

Step 8

To adjust the monitor settings, right click on any blank portion of the desktop and select the 'Properties' option from the context menu.

Step 9

On the 'Display Properties' window, select the 'Settings' tab to adjust the resolution of the screen. The 'Themes' tab will allow the loading of pre-designed Windows themes. The 'Desktop' tab provides the way for changing the color of the desktop as well as the displayed wallpaper. The 'Appearance' tab provides the various options of changing the behavior of the windows, icons, and other elements of the platform, while the 'Screen Saver' tab shows the option to allow the monitor to go on standby or display animation.

Step 10

To extend the functionality of any computer system, software is normally installed into the local hard drive. A software installer may be through some media like a CD or DVD or from being downloaded from the Internet.

Step 11

For CD or DVD installers, insert the installation disk in the CD or DVD drive of the machine. This will be automatically read and launched by the Operating System.

Step 12

When the installation process is initiated, a new window will normally be displayed to the user. Majority of newer installers provide either a default or an advanced installation procedure. In most cases, simply click on the default process to allow the installer to complete the entire process with minimum user intervention.

Step 13

Upon completion of the installation process, a user may be prompted to reboot the machine. Follow the guide in Step 7 to accomplish this task.

Step 14

To launch the software, simply click on the 'Start' Menu, choose 'All Programs' and select from the menu the program intended to be run. An alternative to this process is to check if a shortcut link is created on the Desktop. Clicking this icon will also launch the associated program.

Some other basic commands:

1.     Select files and text.

You can use your mouse or keyboard shortcuts to select files on your computer and text on documents and website. Click and drag the mouse across the text you want to select, or press Ctrl+A (PC) or ⌘ Cmd+A (Mac) to select everything in your current location. Once you've selected files or text, there are several different actions you can take.

2.     Copy and paste.

 Copying and pasting is one of the most common actions taken when selecting text or files. "Copying" a file or text leaves the original intact, while creating a copy on your computer's clipboard. You can then "Paste" the file or text elsewhere.  For PC, copy by pressing Ctrl+C and paste by pressing Ctrl+V. You can also copy and paste by right-clicking on the selection with your mouse and selecting the appropriate option from the menu

3.     Save and open files.

Many programs such as word processors, photo editors, and more allow you to create and save documents and files. When working on a computer, it is wise to save often. You never know when the power might go out, costing you hours of unsaved work. Get in the habit of saving often, and if you are making major revisions to a file it might be wise to create a new copy. You can quickly save your work in most programs that allow saving by pressing Ctrl+S (PC)

4.     Find and sort your files.

 As you use your computer more and more, your personal collection of documents, media, and files may start to get a bit out of control. Take some time and organize your personal folders. You can create new folders to help create a directory of easily-accessible information.