Basic Technology Set-Up & Troubleshooting

1. Basic Technology Set-Up & Troubleshooting Teacher In-Service John P. Holland Elementary School Dorchester, MA

2. Statement of Purpose • The purpose of this presentation is to provide teachers of the John P. Holland Elementary School the opportunity to become familiar with: • basic computer hardware terminology • the process of assembling their classroom computers • steps of starting-up and shutting-down • password protection • basic troubleshooting • the importance of backing up.

3. Key Concept • First and foremost, you are never alone with your technology set-up and troubleshooting. At anytime, before and after this presentation, you can ask your Technology Specialist for assistance. There is also an ample amount of teaching staff that have demonstrated technology competencies who are willing to lend a hand. If you should feel uncomfortable about a task or have concerns of any kind, please just ask for help.

5. Hardware • Hardware is a term for the physical components that are included when you purchase a PC. They include the system box, monitor, keyboard and mouse. 

6. CPU • Central Processing Unit is the main processor of the computer, located in the tower, desktop box, or under the keyboard of a laptop. It may be thought of as the brains of your computer. It takes instructions from software, makes calculations and helps run the show. • We measure the central processing unit's (CPU) speed in megahertz (MHz). Megahertz is a unit of measurement commonly used to compare the speeds of computers. The higher the CPU's megahertz rate, the faster it processes information and instructions.

7. Memory • RAM is the computer's primary working memory. RAM is used for short-term storage while the computer does its work. It is read/write memory. RAM is distinguished from ROM, which is read-only memory. The more RAM you have the more your computer can do at one time. RAM is volatile memory. It needs to be running to "remember" what it is doing. In case of a system failure or power interruption, you will lose all of your work in RAM that you have not saved on a disk drive. Save your work frequently. 

8. Storage • Storage is where the program is kept, RAM is where it works. The amount of space a program needs for storage on the hard drive has nothing to do with how much RAM is needed to run the program. Many PC programs take up several megabytes of storage space. Many programs also require at least 16MB to 32MB (or more) of RAM. To run today's popular programs, make sure your computer has adequate RAM and storage.

9. Disk Drives • Disk drives allow you to store and move data from, and to, different types of media. There are several types of drives: floppy drive, hard drive, CD-ROM drive, and DVD drive. 

10. Floppy Drive • A floppy disk drive is an economical, removable storage medium. It uses a magnetic disk. You can record or erase it and then remove it from the computer. You can use the removable disk repeatedly. Today's floppy is 3.5 inches of square, stiff plastic with a magnetic disk inside. To read or write to a floppy disk, insert the disk into the floppy disk drive slot on the front of your CPU.

11. Hard Drive • The hard disk, or hard drive, is your PC's main storage device. It's sometimes called the C:/ drive, and pronounced "cee" drive. Data is magnetically stored there. It stores programs and data files. A typical hard disk holds from 1 to 10 gigabytes of storage. Much larger hard drive capacity is available.

12. CD-ROM Drive • CD-ROMs are compact discs, read-only, removable storage media. CD-ROMs read the data encoded on the disc and then transfer this data to the computer.CD-ROMs are different from hard drives and floppy disks, in that you cannot store your own information on them. One CD-ROM can hold as much information as about 450 floppy diskettes. Recently, the creation of RW CD-ROM drive appeared: this is a re-writeable CD-ROM drive. It allows you to read, erase, and use it repeatedly like a floppy drive.

13. Output Devices • Output devices enable you to store, print or display the data that has been processed. Some examples of output devices are the monitor, printer and various disk drives.

14. DVD Drive • DVD stands for digital versatile disk. DVD drives read DVDs. A DVD holds about 5 gigabytes of information while a CD-ROM only holds about 600 megabytes. A CD-ROM drive cannot read a DVD. However, DVD drives can read CD-ROMs. • Unfortunately, the Holland School does not have any computers with DVD drives yet.

15. Monitor • All computers are connected to some type of display, which usually is called the monitor. Sometimes we call the monitor a CRT (cathode ray tube) and sometimes we refer to it as a video display unit. The monitor attaches to the video output of the computer and produces a visual display. Monitors are available in many different types and sizes. The size generally goes from 12 to 21 inches diagonal.

16. Printer • A printer is a device that accepts text and graphic output from a computer and transfers the information to paper, usually to standard size sheets of paper. Printers vary in size, speed, sophistication, and cost. In general, more expensive printers are used for higher-resolution color printing.

17. Input Devices • Input devices enable you to give commands or provide data for the process. Examples of an input device are: keyboard, mouse, joystick, and a scanner.

18. Keyboard • On most computers, a keyboard is the primary text input device. The keyboard also contains certain standard function keys, such as the Escape key, tab and cursor movement keys, shift and control keys, and sometimes other manufacturer-customized keys. • The computer keyboard uses the same key arrangement as the mechanical and electronic typewriter keyboards that preceded the computer.

19. Mouse • A mouse is a small device that a computer user pushes across a desk surface in order to point to. A mouse consists of a metal or plastic housing or casing, a ball that sticks out of the bottom of the casing and is rolled on a flat surface, one or more buttons on the top of the casing, and a cable that connects the mouse to the computer. As the ball is moved over the surface in any direction, a sensor sends impulses to the computer that causes a mouse-responsive program to reposition a visible indicator (called a cursor) on the display screen. The positioning is relative to some variable starting place. Viewing the cursor's present position, the user readjusts the position by moving the mouse.

20. Scanner • A scanner captures images from photographic prints, posters, magazine pages, and similar sources for computer editing and display. Scanners come in hand-held, feed-in, and flatbed types and for scanning black-and-white only or color. Very high resolution scanners are used for scanning for high-resolution printing, but lower resolution scanners are adequate for capturing images for computer display. Scanners usually come with software, such as Adobe's Photoshop product, that lets you resize and otherwise modify a captured image. • The Holland School has a scanner in each of the computer labs and the library.

21. Local Area Network • Local Area Network or LAN is a computer network limited to the immediate area, usually the same building. A LAN is a network that is confined to a relatively small area. It is generally limited to a geographic area such as a writing lab, school or building. • The Holland School has a Local Area Network within the building.

22. Ethernet • Ethernet is a system for connecting computers within a building using hardware running from machine to machine. It is a Local Area Network (LAN) protocol developed by Xerox and DED (Digital Equipment Corporation) that allows data transfer rates of 10Mbps; often called 10Base-T, 10Base-2 or 10Base-5. The differences designate the type of cable used. • Ethernet is the protocol the Holland School uses to access our network and the World Wide Web.

24. Assembling Classroom Computers • The process of assembling a computer has become drastically easier as time has marched on. Our classroom computers have these basic components: CPU, monitor, keyboard, mouse, network cable, power cables and printer. We will now begin the process of assembling your classroom computer. Once again, if you do not feel comfortable completing any task that is involved in the process of setting up your classroom computer, just ask for assistance. We will walk through all the steps together, so relax and enjoy!

25. Computer Assembly • Place the CPU, monitor, keyboard, mouse and printer on your classroom computer table. • CPU: The CPU has a power cord attached that we will plug into an outlet when we are finished. • Monitor: There are 2 cables that are attached to the back of the monitor. One is a power cord that we will plug into an electrical outlet when we are done. The other cable connects to the back of the CPU. The monitor cable has little pins surrounded by metal casing. There are also two screws on the outside of the casing. Believe it or not the cable will only fit into one place on the back of the computer, which has little holes that will receive the pins on the cable. Simply insert the monitor cable into the CPU and tighten the screws. You shouldn’t have to be very forceful with the connection, if you need to force the cable in it is probably not aligned correctly.

26. Computer Assembly • Keyboard: The keyboard has a cable that connects to the back of the CPU. This cable is also has pins in a circle surrounded by metal casing. The cable is color-coded. Simply go to the back of the CPU and find the matching color and insert the cable. There is also a picture of keyboard directly above the insertion place. Remember if you have to use excessive force, the cable is probably not aligned correctly. • Mouse: The mouse also has a cable that connects to the back of the CPU. This cable also has pins in a circle surrounded by metal casing. This cable is also color-coded. Again, go to the back of the CPU and find the matching color and insert the cable. There is also a picture of a mouse directly above the insertion place. Remember if you have to use excessive force, the cable is probably not aligned correctly.

27. Computer Assembly • Network Cable: The Network Cable looks like a phone cable and fits into the area on the back of the CPU that looks just like a phone jack. The other end of the Network Cable plugs into the network jack on the wall, once again it inserts just like a phone cord. • Printer: Our printers are connected to our Local Area Network. The printer has a power cord and Network Cable. Insert the Network Cable into the network jack on the wall, once again it inserts just like a phone cord. Now plug in the power cord into an outlet in the wall. • Finally, plug in the power cords from the monitor and CPU. We are now ready to start up the computer!

29. Start Up • When you turn on your computer it begins the process of booting up. This is a term for starting your personal computer. It initiates an automatic routine that clears the memory, loads the operating system, and prepares the computer for use.  • After the start-up, what you should see on the monitor is the Windows Desktop. It is the home base like the physical desk where your computer sits. Several tools to get you started are placed on the background area. These include a taskbar, icons, and a Start button. There will be variations from computer to computer on what the Desktop looks like. 

31. It is important to use the correct shutdown procedure. You should never just shut off your computer. Before you shut down, always save the files you are working on. Always close Windows before shutting down your computer. This will help to protect your files from data corruption.  To shut down:• Click the Start button and select Shut Down. • Select the Shut Down option. • Click the OK or yes button. • You will see a screen that tells you it is safe to turn off your PC. Turn off the power to your computer. Do not forget to turn off the monitor, too. Shut Down

33. Basic Troubleshooting • There are some problems that may arise…

34. Computer Doesn’t Work • Double check to make sure the computer and monitor are plugged in. • If you are using a power strip, make sure it is on. If the power strip is on and the computer still doesn’t work, plug the computer directly into a wall outlet instead. • If the problem persists, plug the computer into a different outlet in case there is a problem with the outlet itself. • Check the adjustment of the “contrast” on your monitor, you’ll be surprised how often the students turn it down.

35. Out of Memory Error • If you have more than one program running, close any of the programs you are not using. • If the problem persists, reboot the computer. • If the error message appears frequently, you may need more memory. See your Technology Specialist for more assistance.

36. Mouse Doesn’t Work • Make sure the mouse is properly connected to the computer. • Clean the ball of the mouse and then reboot the computer, see your technology specialist for more assistance in this instance.

37. Frozen Computer • Press Ctrl + Alt + Del at the same time to bring up the Task List. Close any program that is listed as “Not Responding.” • If this does not solve the problem, turn off the computer, wait a minute, then restart.

38. Printer Doesn’t Work • Make sure the printer is plugged in and turned on. • Check to make sure there is paper in the printer.

39. Can’t Log Onto Network • Check to make sure the Network Cable is plugged into the CPU and the network jack on the wall. • Check to see if there is a green light on the back of the CPU next to the Network Cable. • Make sure you are using the correct username & password. Remember they are case sensitive.

41. Password Protection • Each staff member of the Holland School has been given a random and unique username and password by the Office of Information Systems.This username and password enables staff to access our network and a variety of on-line teacher resources including student report cards, student attendance, student assessments, emergency information, etc. The number of resources is growing daily and we must fight to ensure privacy rights of all. Remember, these wonderful resources bring with them additional responsibility.

42. Password Protection • It is imperative to ensure the privacy of your username and password. Therefore you should never share this information with anyone else. Remember, the information you have access to via this username and password is often private by law. Please secure your username and password as you would your ATM password.

44. Back-up • Imagine losing all your work when the power fails… • Imagine if your computer were to be stolen… • Imagine if your hard drive crashes… • I can not stress enough the importance of continually backing up all your work. • Please do not rely on your hard drive to store all your files. • You should also stores copies on a floppy disk or your folder on the network. • Back-up, back-up, back-up.

45. Back-up • When should I back up? • As a matter of routine. • To protect yourself against accidental data loss, you should back up your files according to a regular schedule (e.g., every Friday afternoon). You may also choose to back up each file whenever you make changes to it, this is strongly suggested. • Before your computer is repaired or has new software installed. • You must back up your files before any hardware or software repairs or upgrades can be performed. • Before you get a new computer. • If you are moving to a different computer, you must back up any files which need to be transferred to your new machine. All files left on the hard drive of your old computer will be lost.

46. Resources • A Guide for Networking K-12 Schools. (1998). Retrieved December 17, 2002 from the World Wide Web: http://www.netc.org/network_guide/ • Platypus Computer Systems (May 31, 2002). Introduction to PC Hardware. Retrieved December 7, 2002 from the World Wide Web: http://www.yale.edu/pclt/PCHW/PLATYPUS.HTM • Tech Along (2002). Technology Glossary. Retrieved December 5, 2002 from the World Wide Web: http://www.4teachers.org/techalong/glossary/ • Focus on PC Support (2002). Retrieved December 11, 2002 from the World Wide Web: http://pcsupport.about.com/ • O’Donnell on Computers (2002). PC Startup Troubleshooting Tips. Retrieved from the World Wide Web: http://www.everythingcomputers.com/troubleg.htm

47. Resources The clip art viewed in this presentation has been obtained from the following sites: • Animation Factory (2001). Retrieved December 1, 2002 from the World Wide Web: http://www.animationfactory.com/free/computer/computer_page_aa.html • DiscoverySchool.com (2002). Retrieved December 5, 2002 from the World Wide Web: http://school.discovery.com/ • Gif Works (2002). December 2, 2002 from the World Wide Web: http://gifworks.com/ • Icon Bazaar: Computer Icons (n.d.) Retrieved December 2, 2002 from the World Wide Web: http://www.iconbazaar.com/computer/ • Kids Domain (2002). Retrieved December 6, 2002 from the World Wide Web: http://www.kidsdomain.com/

48. Resources • TheKidzpage.com (1999-2002). Retrieved December 7, 2002 from the World Wide Web: http://www.thekidzpage.com/freekidsclipart/internet/index.htm • Media Builder 3D Text Maker (n.d.) Retrieved December 7, 2002 from the World Wide Web: http://www.3dtextmaker.com/ • School Clip Art (n.d.) Retrieved December 7, 2002 from the Word Wide Web: http://www.school-clip-art.com/cgi-bin/imageFolio.cgi?direct=Computer • #1 Free Clip Art: Free Clip Art Archive (n.d.) Retrieved December 8, 2002 from the World Wide Web: http://www.1clipart.com/1clipart.cfm?p=Computers