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2 BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY TODAY Chapter Five Killer Applications— Using Your Operating System and Word Processor

3 FOCUS QUESTION How can I use my operating system and word processor to work more productively?

4 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

5 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

6 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.

7 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.

8 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.

9 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.

10 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.

11 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.

12 Keeping Things Organized Clean up files every couple of weeks to keep your computer organized: –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.

13 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.

14 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

15 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.