LEROY MCLEAN, Contributor
VOL 10:16
HEY, JUST DECIDED to continue with those wonderful computing tips to keep things going on your computer.
Take advantage of time-saving shortcuts. Your computer's operating system and each of the software programmes you use have hundreds of built-in, time-saving command shortcuts. Instead of clicking on and searching through menus to execute a command, you can use a keyboard combination to perform the same task. Depending on the types of tasks you perform, you'll save a few keystrokes each time you use a shortcut, and you'll make computing a little bit more convenient for yourself. Begin by learning a few keyboard shortcuts for the programme you use most often.
As you become familiar with them, learn a few new ones. Many programmes let you create time-saving macros, which are strings of commands you initiate with a few keystrokes. Again, you'll help yourself if you learn to use macros.
KNOW YOUR HARDWARE
Learn about your hardware components.
Nearly every programme you install will ask you to designate the brand and type of at least one of your computer's hardware components. A multimedia programme will want to know what type of sound card you own; a graphics-intensive programme will need to know the type of video card that resides in your system. You'll want to keep such information at your fingertips whenever you install software. Some programmes can test the hardware device and attempt to determine its type automatically, but you'll get more consistent results if you can specify the type yourself.
Learn computer care techniques. Taking care of your hardware is probably the best way to extend the life of your PC. You can continue working in other areas if you have a malfunctioning programme, but a malfunctioning hardware device probably will bring your computer to a screeching halt. You can take numerous steps to minimise potential danger to your PC's hardware, such as not smoking while working, preventing objects from falling into your keyboard, moving the PC only when absolutely necessary, and cleaning your mouse regularly.
Send your comments or suggestions to thestartech @yahoo.com . You can also write to StarTech c/o The Gleaner Company, 7 North Street, Kingston.
Do
you have a problem? Is something bothering
you? Write to