PC Essentials for the OSU Libraries

Outline of Workshop Content

     Assumptions:

• The PC Essentials workshop is intended to be a basic introduction; further information or assistance can be obtained from your IT liaison
• The information presented applies to OSUL office workstations, not to public computers or workstations at public service points.
• We have endeavored to define computer terms where appropriate. However, if you run across a term that you are not familiar with, the following web site is an excellent reference tool: “Webopedia” at http://www.webopedia.com/

1. Work vs Home Environment
   1. OSU Library PCs are provided for work purposes only
   2. Any additional software needed for work purposes must be requested from (with supervisor approval), and installed by IT (Information Technology Dept.)

2. Introduction to the PC
   1. Surge protectors - Why and How to Use
   2. Exploring the PC - Identifying Parts

3. Daily startup routine
   PCs should be left on overnight, with all programs closed, in order to receive occasional Windows and/or McAfee updates distributed by IT over the LAN.
   1. Rebooting the PC
   2. Procedure for turning on the PC, if turned off after last session
   3. Log-in Screen, including section on passwords
   4. The desktop (ZENworks splash screen, log-in script, icons)
   5. No multiple logins.

4. Desktop Screen Display
   1. Icons
      1. Types of icons
      2. Arranging icons
      3. Deleting icons
      4. Creating icons
         
   2. Taskbar (sometimes called Start bar)
      1. Adjusting
      2. Start button - Discussion of all options available from this point
      3. Quick Launch Area (next to Start button) - Adding and deleting icons
      4. System Tray - Icons and Functions

5. Desktop Settings
   These should not be changed. If there is a valid need for change contact your IT liaison or the IT Department. .

6. Opening applications
   1. Steps for opening applications
   2. Returning to the desktop, via the Show Desktop icon
   3. Applications that require that they be opened with existing applications minimized
   4. Applications that need to be "activated"

7. Application Windows
   1. Title bar
   2. Repositioning smaller window
   3. Resizing smaller window
   4. Menu bar
   5. Toolbar
   6. Application display area
   7. Scroll bars, vertical and/or horizontal
   8. Taskbar/Start bar

8. Windows Explorer
   
   1. Opening Windows Explorer
   2. Split screen display and functions
   3. File sizes and capacities of common storage media

9. Opening Documents
   1. From within an open application
   2. From Windows Explorer

10. Saving Documents
    1. Saving a new document
    2. Saving a revised document with the same name in the same location <
    3. Saving a document in a different location or with a different name

11. Copying Documents
    1. Copy and paste method
    2. Drag and drop method
       

12. Moving Documents
    1. Drag and drop method
    2. Alternate method: copy and paste, then delete original.

13. Finding Documents via Search
    
    1. Performing the search
    2. Opening the file

14. Deleting Files
    1. Non-functional Recycle Bin on networked PCs
       
    2. Deletion procedures

15. Managing Novell server space(s)
    
    1. Personal server space available to you (H:)
    2. Group shared server space (J:)
    3. Creating and nesting folders
    4. “House-keeping” routine
    
    
16. Addenda
    Addendum 1 - IT Questions & Problems: Contact Information
    Addendum 2 - Common Keystroke Alternatives
    Addendum 3 - Illustrations of Some Common PC Models
    Addendum 4 - Illustrations & Care Instructions for Common Storage Media
    Addendum 5 - Our Daily Computer Routine
    Addendum 6 - Logging Off, Shutting Down, Restarting (What's the difference?)
    Addendum 7 - Changing Your Novell User Account Password
    Addendum 8 - Common Problems
    Addendum 9 - Common File Extensions
    Addendum 10 - Dealing with Computer Viruses
    

Training Advisory Council
September 2004

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Last modified: 02/02/2006