1. HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW THE BASICS OF USING YOUR COMPUTER?
COMPUTER BASICS AND TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS
Task/Competency: Identify computer system components AND troubleshoot computer problems

2. IDENTIFY THE PARTS OF A COMPUTER SYSTEM BELOW
Monitor
Central Processing Unit
Mouse
Printer/Scanner
Keyboard

3. DEFINE Hardware Software Operating System Peripheral
This is the physical equipment that you can see and touch. It also carries out the software instructions. Examples – CPU, Monitor, Mouse
Hardware
Software
This is set of step by step instructions that tell the computer what to do. They can also be called programs. Examples: Microsoft Word
This is the main program that manages all of the other programs loaded on your computer. Example: Windows 7
Operating System
Peripheral
This is a piece of hardware that attaches to and works with the CPU. Example: keyboard, printer, mouse, iPod

4. DEFINE Local Area Network Intranet Wide Area Network Internet
is a network that connects computers and other devices in a relatively small area, typically a single building or a group of buildings.
Wide Area Network
Internet
is a network that connects computers to a wide geographic area, such as across the state or country.

5. DEFINE Word Processing Spreadsheet Database Multimedia
the creation, input, editing and formatting of documents and other text using software on a computer (ex: letters and reports)
Word
Processing
Microsoft Word
a document that is used to organize data into columns and rows. It can perform calculations and create charts/graphs. (ex: teacher’s gradebook)
Spreadsheet
Microsoft Excel
is a tool used to collect and organize large amounts of data called records which can be sorted and filtered (ex: address book)
Database
Microsoft Access
Multimedia
a combination of text, graphics, sound and video that are used to create a presentation. (ex: PowerPoint presentation)
Microsoft PowerPoint

6. SAVING FILES File Save File Save As
Choose this option when saving or updating an existing file.
Choose this option when saving a new file, renaming a file to create a second copy or saving to another location.
File Save As

7. COMPUTER FILE STORAGE Definition Term DVD FLASH DRIVE MEMORY CARD
Digital video disk is a type of removable storage that looks like a CD, but can hold
approximately 4.7 GB.
This is a type of removable storage that plugs directly into the USB port of your computer.
This is a very small type of removable storage disk – it’s used a lot with digital cameras.
This is the permanent storage location that is right inside the computer.
This is a remote computer that can be used to save files – they are accessed either through
a Local Area Network or Wide Area Network.
This is a device that allows you to communicate by talking and texting. It has the
capabilities to search the Internet, take pictures and share documents.
This is a storage location which allows users to access their data from any location using a
variety of WiFi devices. Sometimes it is referred to as the “Cloud.”
DVD
FLASH DRIVE
MEMORY CARD
HARD DRIVE
NETWORK
SMART PHONE
Web Based

8. HOW WELL DO YOU DEAL WITH COMPUTER PROBLEMS?

9. WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOUR COMPUTER OR PRINTER WILL NOT WORK?
Troubleshooting is the process in which you follow to locate and correct computer problems.

10. WHAT CAN YOU DO IF YOUR COMPUTER OR PRINTER WILL NOT WORK?
Tip: Check to see if your devices are getting power! – Make sure all power cables are plugged in firmly!
Other tips:
Check the fuse box - did you blow a fuse?
Check your laptop battery – does it need recharging?
Check the wall light switch that may control the power outlet.
Press the reset button on your surge protector
Replace the surge protector
If none of these work, try using a different power cord and a different outlet.

11. HOW CAN SOME COMPUTER PROBLEMS BE PREVENTED?
1. Install special software:
Anti-Virus software –blocks and cleans hard drive
Firewall –blocks intruders from invading your computer
Anti-Spam – blocks unwanted
Pop-up Blocker – prevents annoying advertisements from appearing on your web page
2. Do not click on pop-ups!
Do not eat or drink near your computer!
Use a surge protector!
Update software when prompted!