Jack The Pug:Computer Tutor

Top Ten Things ALL Computer Users need to know

1. Buy a surge protector that also has a phone line input. Don't be cheap and do your homework. Read the package to see how much it protects, and whether it protects the phone line too.

2. Write down all the model numbers and serial numbers, all the passwords and registration numbers you come across as you install software. Keep them all in a folder or file of some kind, that you can easily access but that the kids aren't going to use as scrap paper for writing down their friend's e-mail addresses.

3. Keep the phone numbers for the store you bought the computer from, the manufacturer and the tech support for all of your software, in one place. Also, keep track of the warranties you have so you don't get a surprise if you call someone for tech support.

4. The computer itself should have plenty of ventilation, and be at room temperature with no exposure to extreme heat or cold, or moisture of any kind. In other words, bring that puppy in off the back porch.

5. Read the books that came in the box. Some of it will be very technical, some of it will not. I also suggest you go to the local bookstore or library and check out some books on computers. Knowledge is power, and this cuts down on the time you spend calling tech support.

6. Abuse your own family and friends. Do you know someone who works with computers or is a geek? Sit for their dog, bake them cookies, or do whatever you have to in exchange for picking their brain.
WARNING: Don't let your friend "fix" your computer if his/hers never works, or if you are still under warranty with the manufacturer. Uncle Fred tampering with the hard drive tends to void the warranty.

7. Your CD-ROM is NOT a cup holder, the computer will NOT work when it isn't plugged in, and the monitor will NOT work when it isn't turned on. This is just an example of some of the questions I have come across in my career in tech support. See, don't you feel smarter already?

8. Do not clean the monitor, keyboard or any other part of the computer with soapy water and a sponge. This is an electronic device, and if you don't manage to electrocute yourself, you might just destroy it. Instead, follow the instructions in your owners manual. Put everything on a sturdy desk, and don't place the tower where you will kick it every time you sit down. If you have small children, keep the computer in a locked room or out of reach. You have no idea what a 2 year old can find to put in a floppy drive.

9. For goodness sake, use a mouse pad and a wrist wrest. They will prevent wrist strain and injury, and they look good. Invest in a good chair that can be raised/lowered (even the arm rests) so that each member of your family or office can sit comfortably. Don't sit too close to the monitor, and keep the top of the screen level with the top of your head. This reduces eye strain.

10. Don't be afraid.
Read, learn and ask questions and you'll be just fine.

		Top Ten Things ALL Computer Users need to know 1. Buy a surge protector that also has a phone line input. Don't be cheap and do your homework. Read the package to see how much it protects, and whether it protects the phone line too. 2. Write down all the model numbers and serial numbers, all the passwords and registration numbers you come across as you install software. Keep them all in a folder or file of some kind, that you can easily access but that the kids aren't going to use as scrap paper for writing down their friend's e-mail addresses. 3. Keep the phone numbers for the store you bought the computer from, the manufacturer and the tech support for all of your software, in one place. Also, keep track of the warranties you have so you don't get a surprise if you call someone for tech support. 4. The computer itself should have plenty of ventilation, and be at room temperature with no exposure to extreme heat or cold, or moisture of any kind. In other words, bring that puppy in off the back porch. 5. Read the books that came in the box. Some of it will be very technical, some of it will not. I also suggest you go to the local bookstore or library and check out some books on computers. Knowledge is power, and this cuts down on the time you spend calling tech support. 6. Abuse your own family and friends. Do you know someone who works with computers or is a geek? Sit for their dog, bake them cookies, or do whatever you have to in exchange for picking their brain. WARNING: Don't let your friend "fix" your computer if his/hers never works, or if you are still under warranty with the manufacturer. Uncle Fred tampering with the hard drive tends to void the warranty. 7. Your CD-ROM is NOT a cup holder, the computer will NOT work when it isn't plugged in, and the monitor will NOT work when it isn't turned on. This is just an example of some of the questions I have come across in my career in tech support. See, don't you feel smarter already? 8. Do not clean the monitor, keyboard or any other part of the computer with soapy water and a sponge. This is an electronic device, and if you don't manage to electrocute yourself, you might just destroy it. Instead, follow the instructions in your owners manual. Put everything on a sturdy desk, and don't place the tower where you will kick it every time you sit down. If you have small children, keep the computer in a locked room or out of reach. You have no idea what a 2 year old can find to put in a floppy drive. 9. For goodness sake, use a mouse pad and a wrist wrest. They will prevent wrist strain and injury, and they look good. Invest in a good chair that can be raised/lowered (even the arm rests) so that each member of your family or office can sit comfortably. Don't sit too close to the monitor, and keep the top of the screen level with the top of your head. This reduces eye strain. 10. Don't be afraid. Read, learn and ask questions and you'll be just fine. Do you have a question you would like to ask Jack? Send him an e-mail today!

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