Computers and their Parts

Keyboard

At the top are 12 function keys labeled F1 to F12

These are generally used with other keys to do a specific job as {alt+F4} will close the current screen being used. By itself F1 will most always give you a help screen.

Escape at the far left top will usually let you escape from your current program---if you are lucky.

Print Screen (Prt Scr) will take a picture of the whole screen and put it on the clipboard. Alt+PrtScr will take a picture of the open window only, and put it on the clipboard.

Cap Lock will capitalize all print.

Shift will capitalize only while held down.

Control is used in conjunction with other keys as in Control+Alt+Del.

Alt will take you to the top of the screen where you can fin options.

Enter will say yes to an option request and will also start a new line or paragraph when writing a document.

Back Space will take you back to the last thing written or to the last sentence if held down.

Tab will indent for you and in a spreadsheet it will move to the next box, it will also move to the next box when filling out a form.

The number key group on the right side can help you do mathematical entries quickly and easily. When num lock turned off they also act as arrow keys, and substitute for up, down, home, and end keys.

Curser is the blinking bar that tells you where you are when working in a document or spreadsheet.

Mouse Pointer shows where the mouse is located and is sometimes an arrow and sometimes a hand.

Tower

Your tower front has a slot about 3 inches wide into which you put a floppy disk. It is know as A drive and is no longer included on the newest computers.

It has a small green light that tells you the computer is on.

One or two trays that hold CD’s. If two one is for installing programs or playing music and the other is for recording information onto a CD and is known as a burner

In addition there may be an additional slot for Zip Disks.

Computers

Computers have three main parts:

Processor. That processes information

Memory. Hard disks that hold permanent information, and Ram that holds temporary information. Ram empties when the computer is shut down.

I/O Input: Keyboard, CD’s, Mouse, Floppies and Internet

Output: Monitor, Printer, Speakers.

Storage Capabilities

Floppy: 144Megs

Zip Disk: up to 750Megs

CD: up to 750Megs

Monitor

The screen also call visual display

Printers

Common printers are Ink Jet or Laser

Modem

Modulator-Demodulator Changes computer signals to telephone signals allows you to use the internet and receive and send e-mails.

Surge Protector

A device to protect your computer from sudden changes in electrical current. Always purchase one that also protects your telephone line, which has more frequent variations than electrical.

Operating System

Common systems are Windows 98 Second Edition, Windows ME and Window XP both home and professional.

Applications

Common applications include word Processors, Spread Sheets, Data Bases, Photo Editing, and Email Programs exclusive to ISP’s (internet providers).