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BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY
TODAY
Chapter Five
Killer Applications—
Using Your Operating System and Word
Processor
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FOCUS QUESTION
• How can I use my operating system and
word processor to work more productively?
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Operating System
• The operating system is the most important
piece of software in your computer.
• Many functions to help manage computing
resources
– process management
– memory management
– file management
– network management
– device management
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Process Management
• Processing tasks should be scheduled for
different times to avoid crashing.
• Scheduled processing tasks include
– software updates
– virus scanning
– backup of data to other locations
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Memory Management
• The operating system can be configured to
maximize the memory used by programs.
This helps to avoid crashing and allows for
more efficient multitasking.
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File Management
• There are two types of files:
– 1. program files (applications)
– 2. data files (documents)
• File extensions help to recognize the kind
of file you are accessing by the last few
letters after the period.
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File Management
(continued)
• When naming data files, keep in mind the
following tips:
– 1. Use fewer than 15 characters.
– 2. Use a symbol to divide sections of
information.
– 3. Include the initials of the author in two
characters or less.
– 4. Identify the subject in five characters or
less.
– 5. Identify the date.
– 6. Add an extension.
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File Management
(continued)
• To organize files using folders and paths
– store files in a logical place
– think of electronic storage devices as filing
cabinets
– use folders to make paths that make sense to
you
– create folders and then subfolders to group
your files together
• Paths are the set of folders that must be
opened to access a file.
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Network Management
• The operating system manages the
computer’s connection to WANs, LANs,
wireless networks, and the Internet.
• Establish network connections using a
wizard.
• An ISP gives details on what to enter when
using the wizard.
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Device Management
• Software called drivers must be installed
on your computer to ensure communication
between OS and device.
• If more than one printing device is
connected to a computer, you can select a
default.
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Keeping Things Organized
• Clean up files every couple of weeks to
keep your computer organized:
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–
–
–
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1. Back up all important files.
2. Delete files no longer needed.
3. Move files to appropriate folders.
4. Archive files that are rarely used.
5. Empty Trash or Recycle Bin frequently.
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Keeping Things Organized
(continued)
• Perform maintenance tasks regularly:
– 1. Scan hard drive once a month using a tool
like Windows XP Disk Cleanup.
– 2. Clean monitor, keyboard, and mouse
several times a month.
– 3. Clean the dust out of computer case at
least once a year.
– 4. Ensure that cards in the motherboard are
correctly inserted when you move your
computer.
– 5. Defragment your hard drive at least once
a month.
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Cleaning Computers Carefully
• For a CRT monitor
– clean using glass cleaner and soft cloth
– clean case using a damp cloth
• For a LCD monitor or a laptop
– clean using special cleaner and soft cloth
– do not use glass cleaner
• For a keyboard
– use cans of compressed air or sticky notes
• For a mouse
– use a damp cloth to remove dust from the
outside of the case
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Making Things Fit
• Defragmenting eliminates gaps and puts
file fragments closer to similar file
fragments.
– Once a month, you should defrag your
computer. It can be a lengthy process. Follow
these steps:
• 1. Close all applications and disable screensaver.
• 2. Start defragmenting software.
• 3. A message will appear when defragmenting is
complete.
• 4. Enable the screensaver again.
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