pennsylvania leadership charter school desktop computer...

Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School______________________________________

Desktop Computer Manual

PALCS Desktop Computer Manual

Contents ________________________________________________________________________________

Introducing the PC Computer Desktop System 4Responsibility 5 Computer Set-up Instructions 6Printer Set up Instructions 10Installing the printer driver (Lexmark Cd) 12Networking(Sharing)printer 13Replacing Printer Cartridges 16Turning off and Restarting the PC 19Adjusting the Display Settings (Monitor) 20Screen-savers/ Desktop background 20Speakers, Microphone, Headset, and Camera Instructions 21Adjusting Speaker and Microphone Volume 21Camera set-up and instructions 22Using your Headset 23

Introducing the SoftwareUsing the Desktop 24Removing and Retrieving Desktop Icons 25Using the Start Menu 25Using and Organizing the All programs Menu 25Using the Control Panel 26Resizing Windows 26

Maintaining your ComputerProtecting the PC 28Using a Power Surge Suppressor 28Using Anti-Virus (Symantec) 28Using Spybot Search and Destroy/Spyware Blaster/Ad-Aware Programs 29Improving PC performance 30

Internet Access Connecting to the Internet 33Setting up a wired Connection (DSL/High-speed) 34Setting up a wireless Network 35Setting up a dial-up Connection 36About the Internet 37Using a browser 37Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox 37FilterPak - limited Internet Content 37

Manging your filesOrganizing files and folders 39Creating Folders 40Moving and Copying files 40Finding and renaming files 41Deleting files 41Getting files out of the Recycle Bin 41


Backing up FilesInstructions to save files to a CD 42Instructions to save files to a Floppy Disk 44Instructions to save files onto a Memory Stick 45Saving files and creating new folders on your computer 46

Useful Information Technical Support 47PALCS Technical support telephone numbers and hours 47Warranty Phone Numbers HP/IBM/Acer/NCS/Lexmark/Buffalo/Linksys 47Go to Assist 47Passwords 48


Introducing the PC ____________________________________________________________________

Computer Desktop System

Your computer system will include the following parts (Note: your system may be different from the one shown this is an example only):

Computer Tower 15' Flat screen (LCD) Monitor

Or

Keyboard and Mouse 17' Full screen (CRT) Monitor

Lexmark All-in-one Printer

Your system may also include (See the Speakers, Microphone, Headset, and Camera section for set-up instructions):

Speakers

Web camera

Headset


Responsibility ___________________________________________________________________

Computer EquipmentPlease take excellent care of the equipment - it is school property and must all be returned. For this reason please also remember that you must keep the original boxes and foam packaging – they are essential for protecting the computer when you ship it back to us.

The home facilitator will be billed for any damaged, abused, or missing parts. Be sure to read the “Instructional Property Agreement and Acceptable Use Policy” and those sections dealing with Student Materials.

Using a Wireless NetworkPALCS only provides wireless cards upon request. We do not provide any additional hardware to set-up a wireless network. Every Desktop Computer that is installed with a wireless card has been set-up for a basic unencrypted wireless network and has been tested and works correctly. If you experience technical issues due to a wireless network we will be happy to assist you and troubleshoot the problem, but we do not support wireless connectivity issues. So, if you decide to use a wireless network and experience technical issues that don't allow you to get on-line you are still responsible for completing all schoolwork on time.

Note: We suggest setting-up the computer close enough to the wireless router that you can extend an Ethernet cable from the router to your Desktop Computer in the event of wireless connectivity issue.

Printer Ink CartridgesPALCS will supply one black or color ink cartridge per school year. It is your responsibility to buy replacement ink cartridges (Unless there has been an exception made).

Notifying PALCS Technical SupportIf you are experiencing a technical problem that prevents you from doing your schoolwork it is essential to notify us within 24 hours so we get the issue resolved as quickly as possible.


Computer Set-Up Instructions____________________________________________________________________

CAUTION: Do not set up this computer or make any electrical or cabling connections, such as the power supply cord or telephone cable, during a lightning storm.

1. Connect the Monitor to your Computer

2. Connect the Keyboard and mouse to the Computer – There are two types of keyboard adapters either a USB adapter or a PS/2 adapter.

A) USB adapter can be plugged into any of the 4 - 6 USB ports available.

B) PS/2 adapter must be plugged into the correct port. The Keyboard has a purple PS/2 adapter and the mouse has a green adapter. Caution: Both adapters have pins inside that need to to be matched up to the correct port before they are a plugged in, otherwise adapter pins can easily get bent and the device will become unusable.


3. Connect the necessary cables (See section on Internet Access if you are unsure)

A) Wired Internet connection Connect a network cable (Ethernet/Cat5 cable) to the computer:

B) Dial-up connection - Connect a telephone cable to the computer

Caution: Do not confuse an Ethernet cable with a phone cable!


4. Connect the Printer to the Computer

5. Connect the Computer and Monitor to the Electrical Outlets

6. Connect the Speakers to the Computer


7. If applicable attach the Wireless Antenna to the Computer

Note: After the Antenna is attached it should look like this:


Printer Set-Up Instructions____________________________________________________________________

1. Connect the USB (Printer) cable into Printer and then connect the cable to any of the open USB ports in your Computer.

2. Connect the power cord to the printer first then to electrical outlet.

3. Press the power button and confirm the Power button light is on.

1 View the number of copies selected.View settings for quality, brightness, and resizing.

2 Decrease a number on the display.Scroll through a list on the display.

3 Increase a number on the display.Scroll through a list on the display.

4 Start the scanning process and open the Lexmark All-In-One Center.

5 Cancel a scan, print, or copy job in progress.Exit a menu and return to the default settings.

6 Turn the All-In-One on or off. 7 Make a black and white copy. 8 Make a color copy. 9 Scroll through the available menus on the display.

4. An alignment page message appears on the control panel display. Press the Arrow button to print the alignment page. During printing, a message on the control panel display reads Alignment Page Printing. When it finishes, the message reads Auto Alignment Complete.

5. Lift the scanner lid and remove the sticker from the scanner glass (see picture below).


2. Power Cable

1. USB Printer Cable

6. Open the paper support and extend the paper exit tray. Load plain paper and adjust the paper guide. (See Picture below to load).

Note: The printer does not come with plain paper

1. Paper support Load paper in the All-In-One.

2. Control panel Operate your All-In-One (attached to a computer or unattached).

3. Paper exit tray Extend to hold paper as it exits the All-In-One.

4. Top cover Lift to place or remove an item on the scanner glass.

5. Paper guide Make sure paper feeds correctly into the All-In-One.

6. Scanner glass Scan, copy, or remove an item.

7. Remove tape from the print cartridges. Install the print cartridges and close the scanner unit. (see replacing printer cartridges for more specific instructions)

1 Print cartridge carrier

Install, replace, or remove a print cartridge.

2 Scanner support

Keep the scanner unit open.

3 Scanner unit Raise for accessing the print cartridge carrier.


http://www.lexmark.com/publications/pdfs/5200/winug/eng/UGpaper.html#wp554038

8. Installing the Printer Driver (Lexmark Cd) - Make sure the Computer is turned on.

1. Insert Cd2. Click on the Install button3. An installation window will pop up and install the software on the computer.

Note: This may take a few minutes4. Another window will pop up. Check the Print an alignment page (located on the bottom left

hand corner of the window). Click Continue.5. After the page has finished printing click Continue6. Install additional software click Continue7. Click on Print Test Page and then Click Continue8. Uncheck Open my web browser to Lexmark's registration page9. Uncheck I would like to participate in the Lexmark Conenct program10. Click Continue11. Click Finish

8 Safety information

• Use only the power supply provided with this product or the manufacturer's authorizedreplacement power supply.

• Connect the power supply cord to an electrical outlet that is near the product and easilyaccessible.

Users Guide for the Lexmark Printer X5270/X3350

If you did not receive a Users Guide with your printer it can be found on the installation CD. To access it, do the following:

1. Insert the CD into the CD-ROM drive. The Lexmark installation screen should appear. (If it does not appear, open My Computer and double-click on the 5200 Series icon.)

2. Click on the question mark (?) to the right of View Users Guide (including setup troubleshooting). You will be asked whether you want to save the User's Guide to the desktop and view it from there (Yes) or view it from the CD (No)

3. Select the option you prefer


Networking (Sharing) a Printer_____________________________________________________________________

To share a printer it will require having your computers networked. Here are two examples of a basic network that you could use to share your printer. Note: One computer needs to be attached to the printer (See printer set-up instructions).

1. Peer to Peer Network (wired)

2. Peer to Peer Network (wireless)

Networking a Printer Instructions Close all programs and save any files before beginning the following steps to network (share) a printer.

1. Re-name both computer's by completing the following steps:a) Right Click on the My Computer icon on your desktop b) Click Properties c) Click on Computer Tab (If not already showing) d) Click on the Change buttone) Type in students name in the box click OK.f) The computer will need to be restarted for the name change to take affect

Note: If you get the following error message, when the computer restarts:Either another instance of OpenOffice.org is accessing your personal settings or your personal settings are locked. Simultaneous access can lead to inconsistencies in your personal settings. Before continuing, you should make sure the user (old computer name) closes OpenOffice.org on host "Old computer name". Click Yes/OK

2. Share computer #1 (Computer attached to the printer): a) Click on Start b) Click on Printers and Faxes c) Right Click on the Lexmark Pritner d) Click on Sharing e) Click on Share this printer f) A share name (printer name) will automatically be provided in the Share name (window


Hub USB printer cable

USB printer cable

Wireless Router

below). You do not need to change the name just leave the default name. g) Example) Lexmark 3 or Lexmark 5 h) Click Apply and then Click OK i) Note: You may receive a warning message, if you do just click OK.

3. Computer #2 (Computer not attached to the printer)a) Click on Start b) Click on Printers and Faxesc) Click on Add Printer d) Welcome to add a Printer Wizard screen will pop up, Click Next e) Click on a Network printer, or a printer attached to another computer, Click Next f) Click on browse for a printer, Click Next g) The computer will now search, Double Click on the Microsoft Windows Network when

it appears in the windowh) Double click on the printer that shows up for example Lexmark 5 or Lexmark 3 Note: You

may receive the following warning message:Warning: You are about to connect to a printer on xxx.xxx.xx.xxx which will automatically install a printer driver on your machine. Printer drivers may contain viruses or scripts that can be harmful for your computer it is important to be certain that the computer sharing this printer is trustworthy. Would you like to continue? Click Yes

i) Follow the set-up wizard to download the printer drivers.

Networking Printers Troubleshooting Tip

If the previous instructions were unsuccessful try the following steps:

1. Share Printer # 1 again (see Share Computer # 1 instructions on the previous page)

2. Get the IP address from Computer # 1:a) Right Click on the My Network Places icon, then right click on the Internet connection b) Click on Status c) Click on the Support tab d) Write down the IP address

3. Computer #2 (Computer not attached to the printer):a) Click on Start b) Click on Searchc) What do you want to search for: Click on Computers or people d) Click on A computer on the network e) Type in IP address of computer #1 Click Search f) When the IP address appears in the window on the right hand side Double Click on the IP

address. g) Double click on the printer that shows up for example Lexmark 5 or Lexmark 3 Note:

You may receive the following warning message:Warning: You are about to connect to a printer on xxx.xxx.xx.xxx which will automatically install a printer driver on your machine. Printer drivers may contain viruses or scripts that can be harmful for your computer it is important to be certain that the computer sharing this printer is trustworthy. Would you like to continue? Click Yes

h) If the printer drivers are not already installed they will now begin to download – follow the Lexmark installation wizard ( See installing Printer Driver/Lexmark CD).


Using a Shared Printer

If Computer # 2 (computer not physically attached to the printer) is scanning a document it will automatically save the document onto computer #1. To transfer save the scanned file to a memory stick or CD (see Backing up Files) then transfer it onto Computer #2. Or, alternatively e-mail the file as an attachment and then open the file on computer # 2.


Replacing Printer Cartridges _____________________________________________________________________

The Lexmark All-In-One is designed to print using the following print cartridges. The numbers represent the cartridge part numbers printed on both the packaging and the cartridges.

To order print cartridges:Visit Lexmark's website: http://support.lexmark.com/Tel: 1(800)332-4120Mon – Fri (9am - 9pm)Sat – (Noon – 6pm)

Black Cartridge (Left cartridge carrier) Color Cartridge (Right cartridge carrier)

32, 34 33, 35 (31 for Photos)

Removing a used cartridge

Note: Make sure the All-In-One is on.

1. Lift the scanner unitPosition the scanner support between the tabs to keep it open. The print cartridge carrier moves and stops at the loading position unless the All-In-One is busy.

3. Press down on the cartridge lever to raise the cartridge lid.

4. Remove the old cartridge. Store it in an airtight container or dispose of it.

Note: If you are removing both cartridges, repeat steps 3 and 4 for the second cartridge.


http://support.lexmark.com/

Installing the Printer Cartridges

1. If you are installing new cartridges, remove the sticker and transparent tape from the back and bottom of the cartridges.

Caution: Do not touch the gold contact area on the cartridges.

2. Unless they are already open, press down on the cartridge levers to raise the cartridge lids.

3. Insert the black cartridge or the photo cartridge in the left carrier. Insert the color cartridge in the right carrier.

4. Snap the lids closed.

5. Lift the scanner unit and fold the scanner support up while lowering the scanner unit until it is completely closed.


Aligning the cartridges

Your All-In-One aligns the print cartridges when they are installed or replaced.

1. Load plain paper. See Loading paper into the paper support. 2. Install the print cartridges and close the scanner unit. See Installing the print cartridges. 3. An alignment page message appears on the control panel display. Press the Arrow button to

print the alignment page. 4. Your All-In-One prints an alignment page.

During printing, a message on the control panel display reads Alignment Page Printing. When it finishes, the message reads Auto Alignment Complete. Your print cartridges are now aligned for optimal print quality. However, you may need to align cartridges when:

• Characters are not properly formed or are not aligned at the left margin.• Lines that should be vertical and straight print as wavy.

To align the cartridges: 1. Load plain paper. See Loading paper into the paper support. 2. Open the Lexmark Solution Center. See Using the Lexmark Solution Center. 3. From the Maintenance tab, click Align to fix blurry edges. 4. Click Print. The cartridges are aligned after the page prints.

Recycling Lexmark Cartridges

To return your Lexmark products to Lexmark for recycling:

1. Visit our Web site: www.lexmark.com/recycle 2. Follow the instructions on your screen.


http://lexmark.com/recycle

Turning off and Restarting the PC ____________________________________________________________________

Turning off the PCFor best results, turn of the PC using Windows without pressing any buttons on the PC:

1. Close any open software programs. To close programs, click the X at the upper-right corner of each program window.

2. Click Start on the taskbar.3. Click Turn Off Computer, at the bottom of the menu.4. Click Turn Off.5. Turn off the monitor.

As an alternative to turning off the PC, you can put the PC in standby mode. To conserve power, you can set the power management timers to put the PC automatically into standby and then hibernation.

Standby ModeWhen the PC is in standby mode, it goes into a low-power state and the monitor is blank as if it is turned off. The advantage of using standby mode include:

• You save time and electricity without having to wait for the PC to go through the normalstartup routine when you wake it again. The next time you use the PC, any programs, folders, and documents that were open before you put the PC in standby are available.

• Your PC can receive faxes while in standby mode, if you set it to do so. • Your PC can retrieve e-mail messages and download information from the Internet

automatically.

To put the PC in standby mode manually:1. Click Start on the taskbar2. Click Turn Off Computer3. Click Stand By4. To wake the PC from standby, press the Standby button or press the Esc key on the keyboard.

If your computer does not wake up, restart the PC:1. Press and hold the On button on the front of the PC for approximately 5 seconds until the PC

turns off.2. Turn on the PC again

Note: Using the On button to restart the PC is not recommended and should be used only as a last resort. Instead, click Start, click Turn Off Computer, and then click Restart.

Restarting the PCWhen you restart the computer, the PC starts over using the operating system (Windows) and software in it's memory. This is the simplest repair for your PC; just click Start, choose Turn Off computer, and then click Restart.

If the PC stops responding, use the Windows Task Manager to close any programs not responding or to restart the PC:

1. Press the Ctrl, Alt, and Delete keys on the keyboard at the same time.2. Select the program that is not responding, and click End Task.

Or Click Shut Down, and then click Restart.If this does not work, restart the PC by press and hold the On button on the front of the PC for approximately 5 seconds until the PC turns off.


Adjusting the Display Settings_____________________________________________________________________

To change the screen resolution:

1. Right-click an empty area of the desktop and click Properties from the menu.

2. On the Settings tab, adjust the screen resolution.• Moving the slide toward Less

increases the size of the text on your screen• Moving the slide toward More

decreases the size of the text3. Click Apply. Click Yes, if it is present.

To change the desktop background:

1. Right-click an empty area of the desktop and click Properties from the menu.

2. On the Desktop tab, click on a background after you have made the final choice,click Apply and click Ok.

To change the Screen saver: 1. Right-click an empty area of the deskto and click Properties

from the menu.2. On the Screen Saver tab, click on the drop down menu to

select a screen saver. Select a Wait time for the screen saver to start, click Apply and click Ok.


Speakers, Microphone, Camera and Headset Instructions____________________________________________________________________

Speakers

See Computer Setup for instructions on how to connect the speakers to your computer.

Adjusting Volume

Click once on the volume icon on the Taskbar to set the speaker volume (see image 1a below). Then adjust the volume by clicking and holding down the mouse on the volume button until you are satisfied with the sound level.

Or 1. Double-Click the Volume icon on the Taskbar.2. The Volume Control Settings window opens (See image 1b)3. When you are satisfied with the sound level, click the Close

box (the X in the upper-right corner) to close this window.

Note: If you do not see the volume icon on the Taskbar, click Start, choose Control Panel, click Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices, if it is present then click Sounds and Audio Devices to open the sounds and Audio Devices Properties window. On the volume tab, place a check in the Place volume icon in the Taskbar check box. Click Apply, and then click OK. The Volume icon appears in the Taskbar.

The volume can also be adjusted by using the volume knob on the speakers (select models only)

Microphone

Your PC comes with one microphone connector in the back of the PC. Some models have a second microphone connector in the front of the PC. Only one microphone connector works at a time.

Adjusting Microphone Volume

If you need to adjust the volume of the microphone, follow the steps below:1. Double-click the Volume icon on the Taskbar. The Volume Control window opens.2. Select Options and click Properties3. In Adjust volume for, click Recording 4. In Show the following volume controls, place a check in the Microphone check box. 5. Click OK6. Adjust the volume for Microphone. If the volume is now acceptable, proceed directly to step 10.


Image 1b

Image 1a

Note: If you do not see the Advanced button, select Options from the Recording Control window, and then click Advanced Controls.

7. To make finer adjustments to the sound, click the Advanced button, and then select the (Microphone) 1 Mic Boost check box.

8. Click Close 9. Repeat step 6 if needed 10. Click the X (Close) at the upper-right corner of the Volume Control window

Web CameraFollow the instructions for your specific web camera:

1. ViewCam Model Pro PK-635M/ViewCam Model PK-635

Installing your ViewCam:1. Install the software (CD) first before you plug in your webcam! Insert the ViewCam CD

into your computer's CD-ROM drive.2. Click the Install ViewCam icon on the installation menu and follow the the on-screen

instructions by selecting your camera from the menuNote: If the Installation menu does not display, go to the Taskbar and click Start, then Run. Next type D:\ SETUP.exe and press Enter key. If your CD-ROM drive is a different drive letter choose that letter:\setup.exe instead.

3. Plug the USB camera cable into the USB port.4. Restart your computer when installation is completed5. Double click My Computer icon, Control Panel, System, Device Manager,

Imaging Device. If you see Icatch(VI) PC Camera or A4 Tech USB PC Camera, then your camera is now installed.

2. ViewCam Model PK-510

Installing your ViewCam:1. Install the software (CD) first before you plug in your webcam! Insert the ViewCam CD

into your computer's CD-ROM drive.2. Click the Install ViewCam icon on the installation menu and follow the the on-screen

instructions by selecting your camera from the menu3. Note: If the Installation menu does not display, go to the Taskbar and click Start, then

Run. Next type D:\ SETUP.exe and press Enter key. If your CD-ROM drive is a different drive letter choose that letter:\setup.exe instead.

4. Plug the USB camera cable into the USB port.5. Restart your computer when installation is completed6. Double click My Computer icon, Control Panel, System, Device Manager,

Imaging Device. If you see Icatch(VI) PC Camera, then your camera is now installed.


Labtec

Installing your Labtec Camera:1. Install the software (CD) first before you plug in your webcam! Insert the Labtec

WebCam CD into your computer's CD-ROM drive.2. Note: If the Installation menu does not display, go to the Taskbar and click Start, then Run.

Next type D:\ SETUP.exe and press Enter key. If your CD-ROM drive is a different drive letter choose that letter:\setup.exe instead.

3. Follow the on-screen instructions 4. After the installation is complete, re-start your computer, set-up will then prompt you to connect

the camera cable to your computer: • Mount the camera to it's base• Remove the protective cap from the end of the camera's USB port, and continue to

follow the on-screen prompts until you finish installing the camera.

Using your Labtec cameraNote: To begin using your camera you must launch the software, but first make sure your camera is connected to your computer.

1. Launch the Labtec WebCam Software by clicking Start, All Programs, Labtec WebCam then select WebCam software.

2. Follow Labtec WebCam Software instructions. Note: The WebCam camera provides optimal eye contact when mounted on top of your computer monitor. Consider placing the camera in the middle of your monitor for optimal eye contact.

• To focus the camera, rotate the focusing ring (around the camera lens) back and fourth. View live audio in the WebCam storage to guide your adjustments

• For a flat surface, simply move the camera from the monitor to the tabletop• To achieve other photo angles, hold the camera in your hand, simply pick it up, point and click

at your subject.

Headset

The headset includes a boom microphone. The headset also has a canceling microphone that filters out unwanted background noise for improved performance. Just move the boom out of the way to use the device for the headphones only. The headsets have a plug-and-play USB connector meaning just plug them into the USB port on the front of your computer and the headset will start working.

Note: If you do not hear anything be sure to check the volume settings (See adjusting volume and microphone section)

Multimedia Chat Rooms if you are in a chat room and wish to speak, press and hold down the Ctrl key on the keyboard. When you release the key you will no longer be heard. Ensure that you speak into the microphone boom on your headset.


Introducing the Software_____________________________________________________________________

The operation of your PC is controlled by two kinds of software:

• The Microsoft Windows XP operating system, which displays the desktop on the monitor and controls your PC's hardware, peripherals, and software applications.

• Software programs that perform specific functions, such as a word processing programs.

Using the Desktop The desktop is the work area that appears on the display monitor. It has the Taskbar (along the bottom edge of the screen) and shortcut icons that make it easy to find the things you need.

A shortcut icon is a small picture that you click to open a folder or start a program. One icon on the desktop performs a special function; the Recycle Bin collects files that you delete. You can retrieve files from the Recycle Bin until you empty it. When you empty the Recycle Bin, the files are permanently deleted.

The Taskbar (see image below) shows the Start button, a Taskbar button for each open window so you can switch between programs, a Quick Launch area that allows you open a program quickly and the notification area that includes the time etc.


Removing Desktop Icons

You can remove most desktop icons by either deleting them or moving them to an unused icons folder.

Caution: Do not delete unfamiliar desktop icons. Instead, follow the steps to move unfamiliar desktop icons to the Unused Desktop Shortcuts folder.

Delete a desktop icon by right-clicking the icon and then selecting Delete.

To move a desktop icon to the Unused Desktop Shortcuts folder:1. Click Start2. Click Control Panel3. Click Appearance and Themes, if it is present4. Double-click Display5. On the Desktop tab, click Customize Desktop6. Under Desktop cleanup, click Clean Desktop Now7. Follow the on screen instructions8. Click OK to close the Desktop Items window, and click OK again to close the Display

Properties window.

Retrieving Desktop IconsRetrieve a desktop icon by opening the Unused Desktop Shortcuts folder on your desktop and dragging the icon onto the desktop.

Using the Start MenuClick the Start button to open the start menu and:

• Select programs or documents• Open the Help and Support Center• Start a search• Run a program • Open the Control Panel to view or change settings

The Start menu also displays the buttons Log Off and Turn Off Computer:Click the Log Off button to end your current PC session and to switch between users. Click the Turn Off Computer button to turn off the PC or to restart it.

Using the All Programs Menu

To find the software programs on your PC:1. Click Start2. Choose All Programs

Organizing Your All Programs ListYou see folders organized according to task when you:

1. Click Start2. Choose All Programs

A folder contains a list of items. Each item is actually a shortcut, or link, to a program, a document, or


another folder. The Music folder, for example, contains shortcuts to the programs you use to play music CDsTo change the name of an item:

1. Right-click the item2. Select Rename 3. Type the new name, and press Enter on the keyboard4. Click Yes in the message box

To move an item by using the drag and drop technique:1. Left-click an item in All Programs or in a folder, and hold down the mouse button2. Move the mouse pointer to where you want the item, and then release the mouse button.

(If you have problems dropping the item into a folder, drag it to your desktop and then drag it to the folder.)

To copy and item:1. Right-click the item2. Select Create Shortcut from the menu. A copy of the item (shortcut) appears in the folder3. Drag the item or the copy into the All Programs list or into another folder

If you use Add or Remove Programs in the Control Panel to delete a software program, the shortcut in All Programs may not be removed. To remove a shortcut:

1. Click Start 2. Choose All Programs3. Select the folder4. Right-Click the shortcut, and then select Delete. Click Delete Shortcut to confirm you want to

delete the shortcut.

Using the Control PanelThe control panel is where you can set up or change properties and settings for the display the keyboard, the mouse, the modem, a network connection, and other components and features of the PC. The control panel also provides tools to change system performance, add hardware, add or remove programs, and other tasks.

To open the control panel, click Start on the taskbar, and then click Control Panel.

Resizing Windows

All windows usually have these buttons in the upper-right corner.

Minimize: Collapses the window to the task bar (but does not close it). The window is still accessible. To bring the window back up, click the button with the name of the window on the task bar.

Maximize button expands the window to the full screen

Reduces the window from full-screen to covering a portion of the screen.

Closes the window and stops the program or task.

Resize a window (not available when window is maximized). Move your mouse cursor over any window border until the cursor becomes a double-headed arrow. Click and hold


the left mouse button. Drag the border to the left or to the right to change the width. Drag the border up or down to change the height.

A Scroll bar appears on a window when the information does not fit on one screen. Clicking and dragging on a vertical scroll bar moves the screen up and down. Clicking and dragging on a horizontal scroll bar moves the screen left and right.


Maintaining your Computer _____________________________________________________________________

Protecting your PC

Using a Power Surge Protector Power surges, for example, voltage spikes, power outages, or brownouts may cause software problems. Symptoms of voltage spikes include a flickering video display, unexpected PC startups, and the PC not responding to your commands. A voltage spike can occasionally corrupt or destroy files. Because of this, you should:

• Consistently make backup copies of your data files and• Prevent damage from voltage spikes by installing a PC surge protector between the electrical

outlet and the PC power cord.

Using an Anti-Virus ProgramA PC virus can destroy information on the hard disk drive. You can get a virus from infected files that you open from:

• An e-mail message or attachment• A file downloaded from the Internet• A diskette (floppy disk), Cd or DVD disk.

Some viruses affect your PC immediately, while others may activate only if you open certain file or do not delete the file before a certain date. New types of viruses are invented all the time. The school PCs come installed with an anti-virus scanning software program called Symantec Nortan Anti-virus.

Symantec Norton Anti-Virus ProgramSymantec is set up to do automatic scans, however it is VERY important to keep the anti-virus software-up-to-date on your computer! Outdated anti-virus software will not protect against the new nasty viruses--and a new virus can pop up at any time. To make sure your computer is properly protected, you should update your anti-virus software at least once a week.

To update your anti-virus software, follow these instructions:

1. Double-click the Symantec Icon on the lower right hand side of your desktop on the taskbar (down by the clock).

2. Click the LiveUpdate button in the Anti-Virus Program:


3. Click next this will update your anti-virus and may take a couple of minutes. 4. Then Click Finish when the screen appears. Then Click the X (Close) at the upper-right corner

of the window to close the program.

Spybot Search and Destroy Spybot Search and Destroy can detect and remove a multitude of adware, and parasite components that slow down your computer. It is important to keep this software-up-to-date on your computer! To make sure your computer is properly protected, you should update the program at least once a week.

1. Double click on the Spybot Search and Destroy icon (see image above)2. Click on Search for updates button 3. Update progress window pops up4. Check (click on) all updates 5. Click on download updates button6. Update progress window pops up7. Each check will appear green when the updates have been downloaded8. Click on the Immunize button (on the left hand side of the window)9. Window pops up click OK10. Click + Immunize button 11. The computer is now updated. Click the Close box (the X in the upper-right corner) to close

this window.

Spyware Blaster Program Spyware Blaster Program can detect and remove Spyware, adware, browser hijackers, and dialers from your computer. By simply browsing a web page, your computer is susceptible to these unwanted programs! Keeping your protection up-to-date allows you to maintain a secure computer. You should update this program at least once a week.

1. Double click on the Spyware Blaster Program icon (see image above)2. Click on Update button (on left hand side of the screen)3. Click Check for Updates button4. The program will now download the updates 5. Click on enable protection for All Unprotected items6. To confirm the updates were downloaded, see the overview section:

• Syware Blaster database loaded 8/26/2006 (example date)12. The computer is now updated. Click the Close box (the X in the upper-right corner) to close

this window.

Ad-Aware SE Personal ProgramAd-Aware Personal provides advanced protection from known data-mining, aggressive advertising, Trojans, parasites, browser hijackers, and tracking components that slow down your computer. It is important to keep this software-up-to-date on your computer! To make sure your computer is properly protected, you should update the program at least once a week.

1. Double click on the Ad-Aware icon (see image above)2. A pop up screen will appear: Your definition is x days old. Click OK3. Click Connect 4. New definitions available. Click OK


5. Retrieving data, once the data has downloaded. Click Finish6. Ad-Aware SE screen pops up. Click Start 7. Click on Perform Full System Scan 8. Click Next9. Note: This process will take 5-10 minutes to perform.10. When the program has finished the scan. The finished running will appear in the top left hand

corner. 11. Click Next 12. Check any items that appear in the window13. Click Next 14. Click OK15. This process deletes any parasites, Trojans etc. Once it is finished the Start button will appear

again indicating the program is back at the beginning. 16. Click the Close box (the X in the upper-right corner) to close this window.

Improving PC performance

Over time, the availability of system resources on your PC can decrease, slowing down the performance of the PC. To improve the performance of your PC, try:

• Closing program windows; keep only one version of a program open at a time. • Restarting the PC.• Consolidating scattered files and folders on the hard disk drive.• Fixing hard disk drive errors.

Emptying the Recycle Bin

When you delete a file from the hard disk drive, it goes to the Recycle Bin on your Windows desktop. You can retrieve files from the Recycle Bin until you empty it. When you empty the Recycle Bin, the files are permanently deleted.

1. Double-Click the Recycle Bin icon on your windows desktop.2. On the File menu, Click Empty Recycle Bin to delete all files.3. Click Yes to confirm the deletion.

Cleaning up your hard disk drive

As you use your PC and store files, the hard disk fills up and becomes cluttered, affecting performance. To manage this, delete files you are not using.

1. Close all open programs2. Click Start on the Taskbar.3. Click My Computer.4. Right-click the hard disk drive you want to clean and click Properties5. On the General tab, click Disk Cleanup6. Wait for the process to complete

Caution: Do not delete unfamiliar files. If in doubt, do not delete. 7. Select the types of files you want to delete, click OK, and then click Yes 8. Click OK to close the window.

Consolidating Scattered Files and Folders

Over time, as you add, move, and remove files and folders on your PC, the bits of data become


scattered over the hard disk drive. This can slow down the performance of the PC. With the Disk Defragmenter program, you can gather these bits of data together. This improves PC performance. Gathering your files and folders with the Disk Defragmenter does not affect the way you have them organized on your PC.

Disk Defragmenter program

Note: Using the Disk Defragmenter to gather the data on your PC may take a several minutes to complete.

1. Close all programs running on your PC. This includes background programs, such as Symantec Norton Anti-Virus (see instructions below).

2. Click the Start menu, choose All Programs, choose Accessories, choose System Tools, and then click Disk Defragmenter.

3. Click Defragment.4. Follow the onscreen instructions.

Turning off Symantec Anti-virus

1. Temporarily turn off Symantec by Right Clicking on the Symantec icon on the taskbar

2. Then click once (uncheck) to disable the Enable File System Realtime Protection

3. Once Symantec is turned off the icon will show a red circle with a line through it.

Caution: Remember to Turn Symantec Anti-Virus back on once the Defragment is finished.

Note: If Disk Defragmenter starts itself over and over, this means a hidden background program is still running. To fix this issue, restart the PC and keep pressing F8 on the keyboard as soon as the first logo appears on the screen. On the Windows advanced Options menu, use the arrow keys to select Safe Mode and press Enter. Press Enter again to select the operating system. Log on to Windows. When the Desktop message appears, click Yes to continue in Safe Mode. After Windows starts up, use the steps above to start Disk Defragmenter.

Fixing Hard Disk Drive Errors

The Microsoft ScanDisk program searches your hard disk drive for errors and is able to fix some errors. Fixing hard disk drive errors can improve PC performance.

Note: ScanDisk may take several minutes to complete the scan to check for hard disk drive errors.1. Click the Start button and then click My Computer 2. Right-click the icon for hard disk drive (usually labeled C:)3. Click Properties and then click Tools tab.


4. Click Check Now 5. Place check marks in all of the check boxes6. Click the Start button, and then click Yes to schedule a full disk scan for when the PC is

restarted. 7. Click OK8. Click the Start button, click Turn off Computer, and then click Restart. ScanDisk starts as

soon as the PC starts again.


Internet Access ____________________________________________________________________

First you will need to subscribe to an Internet Service Provider (ISP) to gain access to the Internet. The Internet is used to access the school portal and find information. In order to share an Internet connection, you must first establish a network (LAN) and get your computers 'talking' to each other. The first decision you will be need to make is what kind of network will work for your situation. There are few to choose from, but each has its advantages and disadvantages.

1. The Wired or 10/100 Ethernet Network pg. 29 (also known as high speed network connection) requires cable to connect all elements of the network. Advantage: Secure, reliable and has the fastest file transfer and is relatively inexpensive. Disadvantage: Wires - if the computers are some distance apart you'll either have wires strung through the house or you would have to get additional wiring done to hide the wires.

2. The Wireless Network pg. 30 also known as Wi-Fi or 802.11b. This relies on radio signals broadcast from an Wireless Router (Access Point) to reach the networked computers. Advantage: No or few wires. Disadvantage: Slower file transfer rate, works best with a clear line of sight between the wireless router and the computers receiving the signal. Distance and objects blocking the signal will reduce the speed of the network. Recently new WiFi5, (802.11a) equipment has come out that allows substantially faster file transfer speeds.

3. Phone Line Network pg. 31 also known as dial-up service. Advantage: makes use of existing phone wires and jacks to carry the network communications. Disadvantage: You will need to use phone jacks located near your computers or you have to get an additional jack installed. Slower than the 10/100 Ethernet (high speed connection).

Note: The school computer will come with a network interface card (for a DSL or Highspeed connection) or a 56K modem or a wireless card (You need to inform PALCS which hardware you require). To connect to the Internet follow the applicable instructions below:

Example: basic home/office network that is accessing the Internet


1. Connecting to Wired or 10/100 Ethernet Network (Broadband/Highspeed)

Equipment needed:

• Network Interface Card (NIC) already installed in the School Computer

• Ethernet (Cat5) Cable (comes in a variety of colors for ex. blue, gray & yellow)

• Cable/DSL Modem (Generally this is either purchased, rented or provided by the ISP)

The Ethernet connection (may be called a network interface adapter, a Network Interface Card, or a NIC) provides a high-speed, or broadband, connection to a local area network, wireless router, or just a cable modem, once this is connected you can then access the Internet. If there is network you can also share printers, data and other devices among the PCs.

When the PC is turned on, check the lights next to the Ethernet connector (back of the computer) for status:

• Activity – Lit yellow during network data transfer activity• Link – Lit green with valid network connection

Caution Do not confuse the Ethernet cable with the phone cable. If the phone cable is accidentally plugged into the NIC Card it can damage the computer.

The plug of the Ethernet cable is about four millimeters or 1/8 of an inch wider than the plug of a phone cable. An Ethernet cable also has eight wires while a phone cable only has four or sometimes two.


Ethernet CableInternet

2. Connecting to a Wireless Network

Equipment needed:

• Wireless Card/s (If requested the card will already be installed in the School Computer)

• Wireless Router (Access Point)

• Cable/DSL Modem (Generally this is either purchased, rented or provided by the ISP)

• Ethernet Cable (short length to connect the Cable/DSL modem to the wireless router)

The Wireless network requires a high-speed or broadband connection (Cable/DSL modem) to connect a wireless router (Access point). This allows you to connect a PC/s without wires and have access to the Internet, share printers, data and other devices among the PCs. To set up your wireless network follow the wireless router step by step set-up instructions.

Using a Wireless NetworkPALCS only provides wireless cards upon request. We do not provide any additional hardware to set-up a wireless network. Every Desktop Computer that is installed with a wireless card has been set-up for a basic unencrypted wireless network and has been tested and works correctly. If you experience technical issues due to a wireless network we will be happy to assist you and troubleshoot the problem, but we do not support wireless connectivity issues. So, if you decide to use a wireless network and experience technical issues that don't allow you to get on-line you are still responsible for completing all schoolwork on time.

Note: We suggest setting-up the computer close enough to the wireless router that you can extend an Ethernet cable from the router to your Desktop Computer in the event of wireless connectivity issue.


InternetEthernet Cable

3. Connecting to a dial up (phone line) connection

Equipment needed:

• 56K modem (If requested the modem will already be installed in the School Computer)

• Telephone cable

• Active jack (telephone/dial-up service)

The modem is used for connecting to a telephone dial-up connection to get access to the Internet. An active phone line is also necessary to access a dial-up connection. Check for an ISP that provides dial-up service in your area. If you need assistance finding an ISP please call the PALCS technical support. Before you can connect to the Internet you must connect your telephone service line to the modem which is inside the PC. The image below shows you how to plug in a telephone cable into the PC modem and into your telephone wall jack. Then follow your ISP instructions on how to set-up the program to connect to the Internet.


Telephone Cable

About the Internet

The Internet is a group of computers that communicate with each other through telephone lines, digital service, or cable lines. Each Internet computer is independent, and it's operators choose files to make available to users of the Internet.

An ISP (Internet Service Provider) is a businesses that gives you access to the Internet, and they charge a monthly fee for their service. When your PC connects to the Internet, it is actually communicating with the ISP's Internet computer. The ISP verifies your account and then provides you access to the Internet. You use a Web browser program to search, find and display Website information.

The World Wide Web (www), also called the Web, is a public part of the Internet used by individuals and groups have created millions of Web pages in support of their activities. A web page is a file or group of files that a user can access by entering the web pages file location, or URL.

The URL (Uniform Resource Locater) identifies a Web site location, typically in the form http://www.name.extension (for example http://www.palcs.org). The URL may include the path to a specific file within that site. Each period, or dot in the URL separates elements within the address. For example , you will see the URL extension .com used by companies. When you enter the URL into the browser address box and press the Enter, the browser contacts that location and displays the web page for you.

Imagine you are reading a newspaper. On page 1, you may read something like “For more details, see page 3, column 2.” You turn the page for more information. A hyperlink on a webpage works the same way, except that you click the mouse with your cursor over the link to move to the page (website). The way that they Hyperlink links files together is what gives the Web its name, because the Web weaves and connects idea to idea all over the world.

Using a Browser

A web browser program searches for, finds and displays Web site information. If you are using dial-up Internet connection, the ISP provides a program that you install on your PC to browse the Web. If you have a DSL or High-speed Internet connection you can connect to the Internet by clicking on the following icons on the desktop:

Mozilla Firefox Icon

Internet Explorer Icon

FilterPak

Icon found on the Taskbar in the notification area

Your school computer has an Internet filtering program enabled on it. The filterpak blocks all sites and services which can contain any inappropriate and illegal material. No filter is perfect, however, we have found it to be accurate most of the time. The filter cannot be overridden. The computer should automatically log into the filter to gain Internet access when you first turn on the PC.

But if for some reason, you see the following screen pop up titled Computer Support Inc, please login


http://www.palcs.org/

http://www.name.extension/

into the filterpak to enable access to the Internet by entering the following information:

Username: studentPassword: loginCheck the Save Password box Click Login


Manging your files_____________________________________________________________________

A file is any information that is named and stored on your PC hard disk drive or other electronic storage, such as a CD, floppy diskette, memory stick (thumb drive), or even in a digital camera. A file can be an application program, a picture, music or sounds, a document, or data. Almost everything you do on your PC involves working with files. The PC can copy files to other storage media within component drives, such as diskettes, memory cards, Cd's or DVD's, or to output devices. Such as a printer.

Organizing files

In Windows, folders make it possible for you to organize the files on your PC. Similar to paper folders within a filing cabinet, folders on your PC are a way to group together related files together.

A folder can contain any type of file and can even contain other folders. Each file within a folder must have a unique name, but two different folders can have files with the same name.

There are two methods for working with the files and folders on your PC:

• My Computer provides an easy-to-use view of the files and folders within a specific folder on your PC. It also has links to common tasks for managing your files, such as copying, moving, deleting, and renaming. To open My Computer, click Start button and then click My Computer.

• Windows Explorer allows you to see both the hierarchy of folders on your computer and all the files and folders in each selected folder on your PC. It is easy to move files from one folder to another in Windows Explorer. You can also copy rename, and search for files and folders. Windows Explorer provides an alternative to using My Computer; it allows you to look at your files, folders, and disk drives in a different way. Rather than showing the contents of one directory at a time like My Computer does, Windows Explorer shows the entire

contents of your computer. To open Windows Explorer, right-click the Start button and select Explore.

Navigating in Windows Explorer

Notice that the explorer Window is divided into two areas (see image below). The left side of the window is called the "All Folders" area and displays all the resources available on your computer such as drives, the Recycle Bin and My Computer. The right side is the "Contents" area. This area displays all the folders and files in a selected folder or drive of the All Folders area. Double click folders to open and display their contents. Use the Back arrow button to retrace your path through opened folders. You can expand or collapse a folder at any time in the All Folders area by clicking on the corresponding plus (+) or minus (-) sign next to the folder.


Creating Folders

Using My Computer:1. Click Start on the taskbar and click My Computer2. Navigate to the location where you want the new folder3. Under File and Folder Tasks, click Make a new folder4. Type a name for the folder, and then press Enter

Using Windows Explorer: 1. Right-Click Start on the taskbar and click Explore2. Navigate to the location where you want the new folder, and then select the folder or device that

will contain the new folder. For example, to create a new folder in the My Documents folder, you would select that folder.

3. Click the File menu, select New, and then click Folder.4. Type a name for the folder, and then press Enter on your Keyboard.

Moving Files

Caution: Moving any file that is part of an installed program can cause the program to be unusable.

Using My Computer:1. Click Start on the Taskbar and click My Computer2. Find the file you want to move and select it by clicking the file3. Click Move this file4. In the Move Items window, click the folder where you want to put the file. 5. Click Move

Using Windows Explorer:1. Right-click Start on the Taskbar and click Explore2. Find the file you want to move and select it by clicking the file3. Click Edit menu and click Cut4. Find and open the folder where you want to put the file5. Click the Edit menu and click Paste

Note: You can also move files by dragging and dropping them into a new location. Select an item in My Computer or in Windows Explorer and then press and hold the mouse button while moving the item to another folder. Release the mouse button to place the item in the new location.

Copying Files

Using My Computer:1. Click Start on the taskbar and click My Computer2. Find the file you want to copy and select it by clicking the file3. Under File and Folder Tasks, click Copy this file4. In the Copy Items window, open the folder where you want to put the file copy5. Click Copy

Using Windows Explore:1. Right-Click Start on the Taskbar and click Explore2. Find the file you want to copy and select it by clicking the file3. Click the Edit menu and click Copy


4. Find and open the folder where you want to put the file copy5. Click the Edit menu and click Paste

Note: You can also copy files by dragging and dropping them into a new location. Select an item in My Computer or in Windows Explorer and then press and hold the right-mouse button while moving the item to another folder. Release the mouse button and select Copy Here to place the item in the new location.

Finding Files

1. Right-Click Start on the Taskbar and click Search2. Under what do you want to search for, click All files and folders3. Under Search by any or all of the criteria below, type the name of the file or folder you want to

find4. Click the Look in drop-down menu and select where you want to search5. Click Search (The results of your search appear in the Search Results window)

Note: You can also search for files containing a specific word or phrase

Renaming Files 1. Find the file you want to rename and select it by clicking on it once2. Right-click on the file and click Rename

Note: Do not change the filename extension (the last three characters after the period in a filename). Changing the extension could make the file unrecognizable to the PC.

3. Type the new filename and press Enter

Deleting Files

Caution: Do not delete any file that is part of an installed program. It can cause the program to be unusable.

1. Find the file you want to delete and select it by clicking the file.2. Right-Click the on the file and choose Delete. 3. Click Yes to confirm the delete an send the file to the Recycle Bin

Note: If you make a mistake and need to get the deleted file back See - Getting files out of the Recycle bin.

Getting Files out of the Recycle Bin

If you discover that you need a file that you have deleted, you can usually retrieve the file from the Recycle Bin. When a file is deleted, it goes to the Recycle Bin and stays there until the Recycle Bin is emptied or is cleared to make room for more recently deleted files.

1. Double-Click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop2. Find and click the file you want to retrieve 3. Click the File menu and click Restore. 4. The file is removed from the Recycle Bin and goes back to it's previous location


Backing up Files____________________________________________________________________

CD/DVD Drive

Your PC comes with a combination (combo) drive. It combines a CD-RW drive (CD writer) and DVD-ROM drive (DVD reader). The CD drive allows you to save data to a CD, however the DVD can only read data.

Handling CDs and DVDs

To avoid damaging a disc, follow these guidelines:• Return the disc to the case when you are finished using it• Handle the disc by its outside edges or center holes only• Do not touch the unlabeled side of a disc or place the unlabeled side down on your desk. Doing

so could scratch the surface of the disc.• Store discs at room temperature.

Inserting and Removing CDs and DVDs

Caution: Use only standard-shaped discs in your drives. Using non-standard discs may damage your drive.

To insert a CD or DVD: 1. With your PC turned on, press the Eject button near the front of the drive to open the disc tray.

Note: On some PCs, the drive is located behind a door on the front of the PC. 2. Remove the CD or DVD from its case, holding the disc edges or center hole only.3. Gently place the disc in the tray with the label facing up.4. Close the disc tray by:

• Gently pushing the tray into the PC OR• Clicking the open/close button on the control panel for the program that controls the drive.

Note: On a double-sided DVD, read the text around the center hole to determine which side (A versus B or Standard verses Widescreen) to play. Place the disc in the tray with the label facing up for the side you want to play.

To remove a CD or DVD:1. With the PC turned on, open the disc tray by pressing the Eject button.2. Holding on to the disc edges or center hole only, lift the CD or DVD out of the tray. 3. Place the disc in its case.4. Close the disc tray by gently pushing the tray into the PC.

CDs you may need to purchase

There a two common types of CDs you may want to purchase. A CD-R which allows you to burn data to the CD just one time. These CDs are primarily used for music and any data you want to permanently keep such as projects or photos. CD-RW allows you to save data over and over again, (like a floppy) you can make CD-RW a CD-R at any time.

Note: If you are burning music onto a CD it must be CD-R only otherwise it will not play the music.


Saving (burning) data onto a CD

There a number of ways to back-up your data onto a CD and make copies of CDs. We recommend using the Roxio Disc Copier and Creator Classic.

Creator ClassicUse the Creator classic to back up data or save new data from your PC onto a CD.

1. Double-Click on the Creator Classic icon to open the program

2. Select your source (location of your files). Click on the drop down menu next to the Select Source and click on your drive/folder, for example My documents. You will now see your files appear in the window underneath the Select Source drop down box.

3. Select the files you wish to add to the CD from the upper window and drag and drop the file into the lower window. Continue adding files until you are done or until the file sizes have filled the disk.

Note: If you wish to select files from an alternate location as well, select that location form the drop down box. You can place files on the CD from as many different locations as you need.

4. Once you have added your files to the Project window you are ready to burn the disk. To burn the CD click the round orange button in the bottom right hand corner of the screen.


5. Once you have pressed the record button, a second window (Record Set-up) will appear to allow you to select a different number of copies or change the speed of the burn. The default speed is the max speed of your CD-RW drive. If you have trouble with the burn timing out or not finishing, lower this speed down slightly by clicking on the drop down and clicking on a different speed Press Ok.

6. Once the copy is complete the drive will eject the CD.

7. You can now remove the CD and click the Close box (the X in the upper-right corner) to close this window.

Disc Copier Use the disk Copier to make a copy of a CD:

1. Place the CD you are copying in the CD drive and close the drive2. Double click the Disk Copier icon3. Click the orange button on the right hand corner of the window4. Once the disk copier has made a copy it will eject the CD, you can now remove the original CD,

and put the blank CD into the drive. Note: The copy may take a few minutes to complete. 5. Click Continue Recording

6. Once the copy is complete the drive will eject the CD. 7. You can now remove the CD and click the Close box (the X in the upper-right corner) to close

this window.

Floppy Drive

Your PC has diskette (floppy) drive, which you can use a 3.5inch diskette (floppy disk) to store files:

1. Insert the diskette with the round metal disk facing down and the arrow on the top pointing into the drive.

2. Gently push the diskette into the drive until it locks in place. 3. You can copy files from or to the diskette

Caution: Removing a diskette when the drive is reading from or writing to the diskette can damage the diskette or the information stored on it.

4. When you are ready to remove the diskette, make sure that the light on the drive is off. When it is off, the PC is not reading or writing to the diskette.

5. Press the Eject button on the PC to remove the diskette. Remove the diskette from the drive prior to turning off the PC.

Note: You may not have a floppy drive in your computer because the new computer's are being build without them.


Memory Stick

The Memory Stick drive (may also be called a USB flash drive, flash drive, or thumb drive) is a small, portable, flash memory card that plugs into a computer’s USB port and functions as a portable hard drive. Memory sticks are easy-to-use as they small enough to carry in a pocket and have more storage capacity than a CD or floppy disk. However, they do have less storage

capacity than an external hard drive, but they are more durable because they do not contain any internal moving parts.

To save data onto your Memory Stick:

1. Remove the cap from the memory stick

2. Confirm the memory stick is unlocked. The unlock switch is on the side of the memory stick.

3. Plug the memory stick into a USB port on your computer and wait for Windows to detect the memory stick

4. The memory stick will appear as Removable disk in your menu options

5. If you want to save files on the memory stick Using Windows Explore:

1. Right-Click on Start on the Taskbar and click Explore2. Locate the Removable disk on the list (this is the memory stick)3. Click on My Documents Folder 4. Right-Click on the file or folder you want to save and click Copy 5. Click on the Removable disk then Right click in the window on the right click

Paste6. Your file/folder is now saved on the memory stick

Using Other programs such as MS Office: 1. Click on File2. Click Save As and the Save As window will appear3. Select the drop down and choose the removable disk 4. Then click Save

Note: If you get an error message: Cannot copy file. The disk is write-protected. Remove the write-protection. You need to unlock the memory stick by sliding the black button on the side of the stick down to the unlock position.

Removing the Memory Stick from the computer

1. 1. click on the Safely Remove Hardware icon. (This icon looks like a green arrow and is found in the notification area on the bottom right hand corner of the desktop)

2. Click on the USB mass storage device and click Stop. This will allow you to remove the memory stick without loosing data.

3. You can now remove the memory stick out of the USB port.


Caution: If the Memory stick's LED light is still flashing (means there is activity between the drive and the computer) or when you are finished saving files on the memory stick you must disconnect the Memory stick correctly otherwise you may loose data.

Saving Files on your Computer

When saving files on your computer it is recommended that you save your files in the My Documents folder and you create folders to store your files in. This helps keep files organized and therefore easier to find.

Creating a folder Depending on your location there a couple of different steps to create a new folder:

Using Microsoft Word, Excel, and Powerpoint:

1. Click on File2. Click Save As and the Save As window will appear.

In the top right-hand corner of the window you will find the Create new folder icon

3. Click on the Create new folder icon 4. Type in the folder name example. Math 5. Click Ok6. This will open your folder and you can save your file

in the folder.

Using Windows Explore:

1. Right-Click Start on the Taskbar and click Explore2. Click on My Documents Folder 3. Click on File, Select New, Click Folder4. The new folder will appear in the window (My Documents folder) on the right 5. Type in the name of the folder, press Enter

Naming Files and saving them to My Documents

Using Microsoft Word, Excel, and Powerpoint:1. Click on File2. Click Save As and the Save As window will

appear3. Either Double Click on the My

Documents Folder or Click on the drop down arrow and Select the My Documents Folder

4. Then double click on the folder you would like to save your file in

5. Then type in the name of the file in the File name

6. Click Save7. If you continue working on the file, you can save it by clicking on File, Save or by clicking once

on the disk icon on the standard toolbar and this will save any recent changes to the file.


Useful Information ____________________________________________________________________

Technical Support

PALCS Technical Support Tel: 610.701.3333 x 1616Hours: 7:00am – 4:30pmAfter Hours 4:30pm – 10:30pm for emergencies only

Manufacturer’s Contact InformationThe following manufacturer’s telephone numbers are for all school computers and printers if technical support and/or repairs are needed. Note: Please check with the PALCS Technical Support before contacting a Manufacturer.

NCS Computer: 1-888-746-4627 HP Printers or Computers: 1-800-474-6836 IBM Computer: 1-800-426-7378 Lexmark Printer: 1-800-332-4120Linksys (Wireless Routers) 1-800-326-7114Buffalo (Wireless Card) 1-866-752-6210Speakers, Headphones, Webcams: Call the PALCS Technical Support tel # (see above).

Go to AssistGo to Assist is a live remote-assistance tool, that is only activated when you allow permission to access your PC. When you contact Technical Support you may request to use Go to Assist we will provide you with a code to get connected which allows us access to your desktop and share control of your mouse and keyboard to get you on your way to a solution.

1. Once you are on the phone with an IT member you will be directed to http://www.gotoassist.com/ph/palcs and you will be provided you with a unique connection code.

2. Enter the code in the field and click the Click Here button to initiate the screen-sharing session.

3. You are prompted to download a small free -plug in to run the program

4. Now you can share your screen and share control of your mouse and keyboard. You are in full control of your computer at all times. You always have overriding control of your mouse and keyboard, and you can end the screen-sharing session at any time.


http://www.gotoassist.com/ph/palcs

Passwords_____________________________________________________________________

FilterPakIf the following screen pops up titled Computer Support Inc, please login into the filterpak to enable access to the Internet by entering:

Username: studentPassword: loginCheck the Save Password box Click Login

School portal Web address: http://palcs.digitalschooling.com

Your username and password are assigned by student services. If you are having trouble login in please contact student services on Telephone # 610.701.3333
