List of Figures | PC Users Bible

Chapter 1: Desktop or Laptop?

Figure 1.1: A desktop computer is bigger and more flexible than a laptop.
Figure 1.2: Most laptop computers use a clamshell design.
Figure 1.3: It's an ugly modern computer, but the table can still fit your décor.

Chapter 2: Evaluating the Warranty and Support

Figure 2.1: Dell's online service manuals provide detailed information for opening their cases.

Chapter 3: Buying a Computer

Figure 3.1: Faster processors can produce impressive results in benchmark tests.

Chapter 4: Looking Inside the Case

Figure 4.1: Look for screws or latches at the back and side of a tower case.
Figure 4.2: The power supply is located at the back of a computer's case.
Figure 4.3: The label on the power supply shows its maximum input and output ratings.
Figure 4.4: The motherboard supports all the other electronic circuits.
Figure 4.5: The CPU is located directly under the heat sink, which is under the large cooling fan.
Figure 4.6: The chipset controls the motherboard's inputs, outputs, and memory.
Figure 4.7: A memory module holds several individual memory chips.
Figure 4.8: The motherboard's connector panel provides many inputs and outputs.
Figure 4.9: The drives are mounted in external drive bays.

Chapter 5: How Your Computer Computes

Figure 5.1: A simple switch controls a light.
Figure 5.2: Instead of a switch and a light, this circuit can choose among several different sources and destinations.
Figure 5.3: Add a memory to the circuit to store instructions.
Figure 5.4: A simple computer uses instructions from a program to drive the controller.
Figure 5.5: A simple computer has five elements.
Figure 5.6: Each layer in this logical stack interacts with the layers above and below it.
Figure 5.7: In this example, Eudora.exe is using about two-thirds of the CPU's time.
Figure 5.8: Both of these device drivers present identical instructions to the operating system.

Chapter 6: The Central Processing Unit

Figure 6.1: The logical parts of a typical CPU
Figure 6.2: The chipset converts between specific commands and data used by hardware and the generic instructions and data used by the CPU.
Figure 6.3: A computer's chipset gathers input and output signals through controllers called the Northbridge and Southbridge.

Chapter 7: Random Access Memory

Figure 7.1: The arrow points to the line indicating that this computer has 512MB of RAM.
Figure 7.2: From top to bottom: 72-pin SIMM, 168-pin DIMM, 184-pin DIMM, 144-pin SODIMM, 200-pin SODIMM
Figure 7.3: The memory modules mount in sockets near the CPU. This motherboard has two modules in place.
Figure 7.4: The plastic latches at each end of the memory sockets hold the modules firmly in place. Pull them away from the module to release a module from its socket.

Chapter 8: Understanding the BIOS

Figure 8.1: Photos of BIOS Utility screens are helpful when you want to return to your CMOS settings.
Figure 8.2: Make a note of the make and model of your motherboard and the BIOS date. You need this information to find an updated version of the BIOS.

Chapter 9: Hard Drives and Other Storage Media

Figure 9.1: The read/write heads inside the drive are at the end of the arms.
Figure 9.2: The dark circle is a track; the light gray block indicates a sector.
Figure 9.3: Laptop drives (right) are smaller than drives for desktop computers (left).
Figure 9.4: This motherboard has two IDE sockets. The smaller connector at the bottom is for floppy disk drives.
Figure 9.5: IDE drives use jumpers to identify themselves as Master or Slave.
Figure 9.6: SATA drives don't need jumpers.
Figure 9.7: The Windows XP Disk Management tool can format and partition hard disks.
Figure 9.8: Larger 5.25-inch diskettes (top) have been rendered obsolete by 3.5-inch disks, which in turn are almost entirely replaced by rewritable CDs and other storage media.
Figure 9.9: Zip disks are smaller and more expensive than recordable CD-ROMs.
Figure 9.10: Portable USB flash drives come in many forms, from simple and functional …
Figure 9.11: … to completely silly.
Figure 9.12: Pocket-sized USB hard drives can hold a substantial amount of data in a small package.

Chapter 10: Understanding Graphics Controllers

Figure 10.1: The structure of a graphics controller is similar to the overall operation of the computer.
Figure 10.2: A PCI expansion card has 47 electrical contacts on each side of the circuit board, and one or two positioning slots.
Figure 10.3: The chipset sends data to an AGP card much more quickly than it sends data to a PCI card.
Figure 10.4: AGP cards use a 132-pin edge-card connector.
Figure 10.5: Traditional PCI uses a shared parallel bus to transfer data.
Figure 10.6: Each PCI Express lane can support 500MB per second, so an X16 video card can exchange 4GB per second in each direction.
Figure 10.7: PCI Express X16 cards have 164-pin card-edge connectors.
Figure 10.8: The Settings screen in the Display Properties window controls graphics options.
Figure 10.9: The Adapter tab in the video card's Properties window identifies the chipset and shows the amount of RAM memory.
Figure 10.10: Analog monitors use 15-pin VGA connectors.
Figure 10.11: DVI connectors and receptacles come in four different configurations.
Figure 10.12: Use the Settings screen to adjust resolution and color quality.
Figure 10.13: Use the Screen refresh rate drop-down menu to set the refresh rate.

Chapter 11: Video Monitors

Figure 11.1: The electron gun at one end of a CRT streams electrons at a screen at the other end. The coils around the neck of the tube steer the electron stream to cover the entire screen.
Figure 11.2: Light passing through a liquid crystal is controlled by a thin-film transistor matrix.
Figure 11.3: The geometry controls correct distorted shapes on monitor screens.

Chapter 12: Keyboards, Mice, and Other Input Devices

Figure 12.1: When you press a key, the keyboard sends a scan code to the computer's CPU.
Figure 12.2: A computer keyboard has several distinct groups of keys. This keyboard has the function keys along the left side instead of the top row.
Figure 12.3: This keyboard has two sets of function keys: one set to the left of the typewriter keys and another set along the top.
Figure 12.4: Use Alt+Tab to see a list of current programs. In this case, the programs are (from left to right) Internet Explorer, WeatherBug (an online weather forecast display program), a Time Synchronizer program, an e-mail program and Windows Explorer.
Figure 12.5: Use the Keyboard Properties dialog box to change your typematic settings.
Figure 12.6: The Character Map allows you to enter many symbols and characters that are not on your keyboard.
Figure 12.7: Use the Character Map's Advanced view to search for a character.
Figure 12.8: Use the Text Services and Input Languages window to add or remove a keyboard layout.
Figure 12.9: Choose the type of keyboard you want to add from the menu.
Figure 12.10: The Russian keyboard layout has been loaded.
Figure 12.11: This keyboard has both English and Russian characters on its key caps.
Figure 12.12: Many ergonomic keyboards split the typewriter keys to make them easier to reach.
Figure 12.13: The numeric keypad is combined with the typewriter keypad.
Figure 12.14: The On-Screen Keyboard replaces mouse clicks for keystrokes.
Figure 12.15: Use the Buttons settings to assign a specific use to each mouse button.
Figure 12.16: Choose a cursor scheme that contrasts with the background of your Windows desktop.
Figure 12.17: Use the Motion tab of the Mouse Properties dialog box to adjust the way the cursor moves across the screen.

Chapter 13: Sound Cards, Speakers, and Other Audio

Figure 13.1: The control software for a professional audio interface offers many options and settings.
Figure 13.2: An external sound controller can be quite simple …
Figure 13.3: … or extremely complex.
Figure 13.4: The Volume tab controls the output playback level from your sound controller.
Figure 13.5: Use the Speaker Volume controls to balance the relative levels of your speakers.
Figure 13.6: Use the Advanced Audio Properties window to optimize sound playback for your speakers.
Figure 13.7: Use the Sounds tab to change Windows sound effects or to turn them off completely.
Figure 13.8: Use the Audio tab to select the sound controller that it uses as the default for recording and playback.
Figure 13.9: The SoundMax control panel duplicates the Windows Volume Control.
Figure 13.10: SoundMax includes many settings and options that are not accessible from Windows.
Figure 13.11: The sliders on the Volume Control window set input and output levels for audio signals.

Chapter 14: Using USB and FireWire Interfaces

Figure 14.1: USB cable connectors: Type A (left) and Type B (right)
Figure 14.2: USB sockets: Type A (left) and Type B (right)
Figure 14.3: Many digital cameras use mini-USB connectors.
Figure 14.4: IEEE 1394 plug (left) and socket (right)

Chapter 15: Using Bluetooth

Figure 15.1: USB Bluetooth adapters are often plug-in modules.
Figure 15.2: The software supplied with many Bluetooth adapters includes more features than the generic Windows driver.
Figure 15.3: The Bluetooth logo appears on adapters and other Bluetooth devices and on the Windows System Tray.
Figure 15.4: Use the Add a Bluetooth Device Wizard to connect a Bluetooth device to your computer.
Figure 15.5: Use the Options tab to make your computer visible to other Bluetooth hosts.
Figure 15.6: Use the Add COM Port dialog box to assign a Bluetooth device to a COM port.

Chapter 16: Exploring Your Desktop Computer

Figure 16.1: A desktop computer's front panel includes several controls and indicators.
Figure 16.2: The rear panel provides access for most of the external inputs and outputs.
Figure 16.3: Use the Power Buttons options to control the On/Off button.
Figure 16.4: Many desktop computers still use PS/2 connectors for the keyboard and the mouse.
Figure 16.5: A remote terminal connects to a computer through a modem and a telephone line.
Figure 16.6: If you try to connect two DTE serial data ports to each other, no signal goes anywhere.
Figure 16.7: When you connect a DTE port to a DCE port, all of the signals pass from one to the other.
Figure 16.8: When you connect two DTE serial data ports to each other, you must use a null modem adapter or cable.
Figure 16.9: Every serial data character uses a standard format.
Figure 16.10: Use the Device Manager to open the COM port properties window.
Figure 16.11: Use the Communications Port Properties dialog box to adjust the default configuration settings.
Figure 16.12: The Game Controllers window shows the currently installed controller.
Figure 16.13: Choose your controller to test its functions.
Figure 16.14: Use the Test dialog box to test the individual controls on your game controller.
Figure 16.15: Open the Settings tab to calibrate your game controller.

Chapter 17: Managing Power on a Desktop Computer

Figure 17.1: If ACPI is active, it appears under Computer in the Device Manager.
Figure 17.2: Use the Hibernate tab to turn hibernation on or off.
Figure 17.3: Use the Advanced tab to enable or disable password control.
Figure 17.4: Use the Power Schemes tab to create or change a power scheme.
Figure 17.5: Uninterruptible power supplies provide clean AC power and a battery backup to your computer's power supply.
Figure 17.6: Use the UPS tab to configure and monitor the state of your UPS.
Figure 17.7: Use the UPS Selection dialog box to identify your UPS to Windows.
Figure 17.8: The UPS Configuration window controls what happens when a power failure occurs.

Chapter 18: Overclocking Your Computer

Figure 18.1: Change the switch settings on this motherboard to set the clock speed.
Figure 18.2: Choose the Clock Frequency Settings option to increase the graphics processor speed.
Figure 18.3: Use the clock frequency sliders to overclock your graphics controller.
Figure 18.4: Use RivaTuner if your graphics card's control software does not support overclocking.
Figure 18.5: The Low-level system tweaks dialog box includes overclocking controls.
Figure 18.6: ATITool is a quick and easy tool for overclocking graphics controllers with ATI chipsets.

Chapter 19: Choosing a Laptop Computer

Figure 19.1: The size of a computer's screen is measured from corner to corner.

Chapter 20: Finding Your Way Around Your Laptop Computer

Figure 20.1: The Advanced Power Options settings dialog box controls the response to pushing the power button.
Figure 20.2: The keys that perform special functions when you hold down the Fn key have additional symbols printed on them.
Figure 20.3: The pointing stick is the flexible object directly above the B key.
Figure 20.4: From left to right: Air vents, VGA video connector, RJ-11 Modem connector, RJ-45 Ethernet connector, audio input and output connectors, IEEE 1394 jack, PC Card/ExpressCard socket
Figure 20.5: From left to right: S-Video output connector, DVD drive, and two USB connectors
Figure 20.6: A laptop computer's power unit provides DC current to run the computer and charge the battery.

Chapter 21: Managing Power on a Laptop Computer

Figure 21.1: The label on your computer's battery should identify its type, as the arrow indicates.
Figure 21.2: The Windows Power Meter shows the current status of the battery.
Figure 21.3: Use the Alarms tab to set the battery levels that will produce alarms.
Figure 21.4: The Low Battery Alarm Actions dialog box sets the actions that take place when an alarm occurs.
Figure 21.5: IBM/Lenovo ThinkPads include additional battery information that is not available from Windows.
Figure 21.6: The Power Meter shows the amount of power currently available in your laptop's battery.
Figure 21.7: The internal "clock" in your computer's battery starts when it leaves the factory.
Figure 21.8: Use the Windows Power Schemes to reduce the battery's power consumption.
Figure 21.9: The ThinkPad Power Manager is a more aggressive power-conservation program than the one supplied with Windows.

Chapter 22: Using External Devices with a Laptop

Figure 22.1: The Settings tab in Display Properties controls the way Windows handles multiple monitors.
Figure 22.2: The Identify command in the Settings tab places a big number over each screen.

Chapter 23: Connecting Your Laptop to the Internet

Figure 23.1: The Access Connections program changes all the configuration settings needed to switch between network connections.
Figure 23.2: In this configuration, the Motorola software has detected a Series 60c phone.
Figure 23.3: Choose the Set up my connection manually option to set up a dial-in connection.
Figure 23.4: Use the Set up my connection manually option.
Figure 23.5: Type your ISP's access telephone number (or the mobile telephone company's Internet access number) in the Phone number field.
Figure 23.6: Enter the login name and password for your dial-in account.
Figure 23.7: Use the Connect dialog box to connect to your ISP.

Chapter 24: PC Cards and ExpressCards

Figure 24.1: PC Cards are about the same size as a credit card.
Figure 24.2: From left to right: Type I, Type II, Type III, and an extended Type II card
Figure 24.3: ExpressCards are shorter and narrower than PC Cards.
Figure 24.4: ExpressCards fit into sockets on many new laptop computers.
Figure 24.5: The Safely Remove Hardware icon indicates that one or more PC Cards or other removable hardware devices are active.
Figure 24.6: Use the Safely Remove Hardware window to disable a PC Card or ExpressCard before you remove it.

Chapter 25: Laptop Accessories

Figure 25.1: A small, LED-base flashlight can be a useful accessory for your laptop computer.

Chapter 26: Traveling with Your Laptop

Figure 26.1: Both of these Wi-Fi networks are protected by passwords.
Figure 26.2: In this location, Windows has identified five networks, two of which are configured for open access.
Figure 26.3: The software supplied with the Intel wireless network interface detects more signals than the Microsoft tool.
Figure 26.4: The Wi-Fi program provided with IBM/Lenovo ThinkPads includes a graphic display of nearby Wi-Fi hotspots.

Chapter 27: Setting Up Your Computer

Figure 27.1: Choose either Express or Custom downloading to install new Windows Update files.
Figure 27.2: The Windows Update utility displays the status of downloads and installations.
Figure 27.3: The Custom update option shows three types of updates: High Priority, Optional Software, and Optional Hardware.
Figure 27.4: The Sounds tab controls the Windows sound scheme.
Figure 27.5: The options and settings in the Display Properties window control the appearance of just about every visible element of Windows.
Figure 27.6: The Monitor tab includes a setting for Screen Refresh Rate.
Figure 27.7: This computer uses a 1940s TV test pattern as its background image.
Figure 27.8: Use the Set as Desktop Background command to use an image on your desktop.
Figure 27.9: The Screen Saver tab specifies the image that appears when the computer is idle.
Figure 27.10: The options in the Appearance tab control fonts, colors, sizes, and other characteristics of every item on your screen.
Figure 27.11: The Advanced Appearance dialog box controls the appearance of individual screen elements.
Figure 27.12: In this window, the Standard toolbar and the Reviewing toolbar are floating palettes.
Figure 27.13: The Show Desktop Icons option hides or displays shortcuts on the Windows desktop.
Figure 27.14: The Language bar displays a symbol for each installed input language.
Figure 27.15: The Media Player toolbar offers a set of controls for Windows Media Player when the program window is minimized.
Figure 27.16: Virtual Desktop Manager can display active programs in up to four separate screens.
Figure 27.17: Use the Internet Time tab to set your computer's clock to the exact time.
Figure 27.18: The Taskbar tab in the Taskbar and Start Menu window controls the contents of the System Tray.
Figure 27.19: Use the Customize Notifications control to set the configuration for each icon.
Figure 27.20: Use the Windows Components Wizard to remove Windows programs that you don't need.
Figure 27.21: TweakUI includes a huge set of options and settings that affect the look and feel of Windows.
Figure 27.22: Use the System Configuration Utility to disable autostart programs. Your list may be slightly different from what is shown here.

Chapter 28: Enhancing the View

Figure 28.1: Microsoft's Ontario theme changes the background and icons on the Windows desktop.
Figure 28.2: The San Fermín theme celebrates the Running of the Bulls at Pamplona. It's available from Microsoft in English and Spanish.
Figure 28.3: Moving controls and tools to a second screen creates more space for the actual project.
Figure 28.4: The Settings tab in the Display Properties dialog box controls multiple monitors.
Figure 28.5: The NVIDIA Control Panel program offers additional multiple-monitor options.
Figure 28.6: ATI's CATALYST Control Center also includes support for multiple-monitor operation.
Figure 28.7: The Intel Graphics Media control program can configure a dual display from a laptop computer.
Figure 28.8: Windows can support two or more monitors from a single computer (left); MaxiVista uses the monitor from a second computer as the second screen (right).
Figure 28.9: This computer has two monitors (screens 1 and 2) connected directly, plus two more connected through MaxiVista (screens 3 and 4).
Figure 28.10: UltraMon can add Move and Expand controls to the Windows title bar.
Figure 28.11: The NVIDIA Control Panel includes a "same on both displays" option.

Chapter 29: Ergonomics-Making the Most of Bad Design

Figure 29.1: Type with your hands level. Don't bend your wrists upward or downward.
Figure 29.2: Microsoft's Natural Ergonomic Keyboards have a Comfort Curve design that reduces the need to twist the wrists while typing.
Figure 29.3: The Kinesis Contour Keyboard is a more extreme design that was created to optimize comfortable typing and reduce repetitive strain injuries.
Figure 29.4: Keep the top of the monitor screen at or below eye level.
Figure 29.5: Place multiple monitors in positions where you can look directly at each screen.
Figure 29.6: When you use a computer standing up, keep your body vertical.

Chapter 30: Accessibility

Figure 30.1: Use the Text Size dialog box to increase the size of type and windows.
Figure 30.2: The Display Settings dialog box includes more options to make things bigger on the screen.
Figure 30.3: Choose the options you want to adjust in this dialog box.
Figure 30.4: This scheme uses high-contrast colors and enormous fonts to make the screen elements easier to see.
Figure 30.5: Use the Appearance tab to select more visible screen elements.
Figure 30.6: The Magnifier utility displays a larger version of part of the Windows desktop and open windows.
Figure 30.7: Use the Magnifier Settings dialog box to adjust the performance and appearance of the magnified image.
Figure 30.8: The Toolbar magnifier displays an expanded version of part of the Windows desktop. Move your mouse to move the magnified section.
Figure 30.9: Use the Internet Explorer Zoom feature to increase or decrease the size of Web pages.
Figure 30.10: Use the Text Size option in the Tools menu to change the type size in Internet Explorer.
Figure 30.11: The General tab of the Internet Options window controls several elements of the browser's display.
Figure 30.12: Use the Accessibility options to override font sizes and styles in Web pages.
Figure 30.13: Choose the fonts you want to see in Web pages.
Figure 30.14: Turn on MouseKeys to control the mouse pointer with your numeric keypad.
Figure 30.15: Use the Settings window to control MouseKeys options.
Figure 30.16: Use the Accessibility Options control to turn StickyKeys and FilterKeys on or off.
Figure 30.17: On-Screen Keyboard accepts inputs from a mouse or other pointing device.

Chapter 31: Working with Microsoft Windows

Figure 31.1: The About Windows dialog box lists the version number for the current version of Windows.
Figure 31.2: The Add Hardware Wizard lets you install and troubleshoot new hardware.
Figure 31.3: The Device Manager shows all hardware installed on the current system.
Figure 31.4: The Properties dialog box displays the details about the selected hardware.
Figure 31.5: The Driver tab of the Properties dialog box has an option to display the details about the selected hardware's device driver.
Figure 31.6: The Hardware Update Wizard guides you through installing new device drivers.
Figure 31.7: The Automatic Updates tab lets you select an option that searches for Windows updates on a daily basis.

Chapter 32: Essential Software

Figure 32.1: Microsoft Internet Explorer includes a range of common browser features, making it easy to move around the Web.
Figure 32.2: Microsoft Outlook Express is simple and easy to use.
Figure 32.3: Microsoft Outlook includes calendaring, scheduling, and collaboration features.
Figure 32.4: The Windows Firewall dialog box lets you enable the firewall for your system.
Figure 32.5: The Exceptions tab of the Windows Firewall dialog box lets you identify programs that can run without any warning.
Figure 32.6: Antivirus features are typically controlled using a command center interface.
Figure 32.7: The Pop-up Blocker Settings dialog box lets you specify Web sites where pop-ups are allowed.
Figure 32.8: The Adobe Reader can view PDF files as a stand-alone application or within the Web browser.
Figure 32.9: Flash files can add animation, video, and interactivity to Web pages.
Figure 32.10: The Screen Saver panel of the Display Properties dialog box lets you choose which screen saver to use and how long to wait before it appears.
Figure 32.11: The Power Options Properties dialog box lets you set the monitor and hard disks to turn off after a specified amount of time.
Figure 32.12: Microsoft Word uses wizards and templates to automate the creation of certain documents.
Figure 32.13: Microsoft Excel lets you manipulate numbers and formulas.
Figure 32.14: Microsoft PowerPoint lets you easily create multi-page presentations.
Figure 32.15: OpenOffice's Calc application is a freely available spreadsheet.
Figure 32.16: Adobe Photoshop is used to edit and create images.
Figure 32.17: Adobe Illustrator lets you draw images using lines and brushes.
Figure 32.18: Windows Solitaire provides a welcome break from working on a computer.

Chapter 33: Alternatives to Windows

Figure 33.1: DesktopBSD uses a similar graphic environment to Windows Explorer.
Figure 33.2: PCLinuxOS is known as a beginner-friendly Linux distribution.

Chapter 34: Sharing a Computer

Figure 34.1: The User Accounts window offers several options for creating and changing accounts.
Figure 34.2: Use the Name the new account window to assign a username.
Figure 34.3: Choose the type of account you want to create.
Figure 34.4: Use the What do you want to change window to edit account settings.
Figure 34.5: This window displays the Select logon and logoff options.
Figure 34.6: The Shared Computer Toolkit can set restrictions on many Windows features and functions.
Figure 34.7: Users can turn on Accessibility utilities for their own accounts, without making system-wide changes.
Figure 34.8: Disk Protection returns Windows and other programs to their original condition after a user tries to make changes.

Chapter 35: Printing from Your Computer

Figure 35.1: Laser printers are quiet, fast, and available in versions that can print in monochrome or color.
Figure 35.2: Some photo printers allow you to print directly from a flash memory card without connecting to a computer.
Figure 35.3: You can add connected parallel port printers to your system using the Add Printer Wizard.
Figure 35.4: The second page of the Add Printer Wizard lets you select the printer's port.
Figure 35.5: The next page of the Add Printer Wizard lets you load the printer driver.
Figure 35.6: The final page of the Add Printer Wizard summarizes the options you've selected.
Figure 35.7: When connecting to a network printer, the Add Printer Wizard includes several options for locating the printer.
Figure 35.8: The printer's Properties dialog box includes all the settings for the selected printer.
Figure 35.9: The Advanced tab of the printer's Properties dialog box lets you set when the printer is available to print.
Figure 35.10: The Printing Defaults dialog box lets you change specifics about the printer, such as the paper size and orientation.
Figure 35.11: All system fonts appear in the Fonts folder in the Control Panel.
Figure 35.12: The Open pop-up menu displays a sample of the selected font.
Figure 35.13: The Paper tab of the Printing Preferences dialog box lets you select which tray of paper to use.
Figure 35.14: The Basics tab of the Printing Preferences dialog box lets you change the paper's orientation.
Figure 35.15: The Print dialog box lets you choose which printer to use for the selected print job.
Figure 35.16: The Page Setup dialog box lets you set the document's margins and orientation.
Figure 35.17: The Paper tab of the Page Setup dialog box lets you set paper size and paper source.
Figure 35.18: The Print Preview dialog box shows what the document will look like when printed.

Chapter 36: Making Presentations

Figure 36.1: PowerPoint divides the window into three different panes allowing quick access to each of the slides in the current presentation.
Figure 36.2: The selected design template automatically applies to all slides in the current presentation.
Figure 36.3: The New Slide thumbnails let you choose from several different templates.
Figure 36.4: You can move images anywhere within the slide by dragging it to its new position.
Figure 36.5: OpenOffice Impress provides an alternative presentation package.
Figure 36.6: Projectors can project a computer image onto the side of a wall so an entire group can view the presentation.
Figure 36.7: The Display Properties dialog box lets you change the display resolution.

Chapter 37: Scanning to Your Computer

Figure 37.1: The scanner's Properties dialog box lets you test the scanner installation.
Figure 37.2: The Events tab of the scanner's Properties dialog box lets you define which applications open when the interface buttons are pressed.
Figure 37.3: The Scanner and Camera Wizard automatically opens when you press Scan on the scanner.
Figure 37.4: The second screen of the Scanner and Camera Wizard lets you select which type of picture you'll be scanning.
Figure 37.5: The Custom scan settings include an option for setting the resolution of the image to be scanned.
Figure 37.6: The third step of the Scanner and Camera Wizard lets you name and save the scanned image.
Figure 37.7: The HP PrecisionScan LT software is an example of the kind of software that ships with a scanner.
Figure 37.8: The HP ScanJet Copy Utility lets you use your scanner and printer like a copier.

Chapter 38: Using Your Computer with a Digital Camera

Figure 38.1: The Removable Disk dialog box opens when a USB device is connected to the computer.
Figure 38.2: The Scanner and Camera Wizard can download images from the camera's memory card.
Figure 38.3: The first page of the Scanner and Camera Wizard displays all the images on the camera's memory card as thumbnails.
Figure 38.4: The Properties dialog box shows the date and time when the image was taken.
Figure 38.5: The next page of the Scanner and Camera Wizard lets you give the images a name and specifies where the images will save.
Figure 38.6: The Scanner and Camera Wizard shows the progress of all the images being downloaded.
Figure 38.7: The next screen in the Scanner and Camera Wizard includes an option to publish the downloaded pictures to a Web site.
Figure 38.8: You can view thumbnail images in Windows Explorer when an image file is selected.
Figure 38.9: The Screen Saver tab of the Display Properties dialog box lets you set up a screen saver to view a folder of downloaded images.
Figure 38.10: The My Pictures Screen Saver Options dialog box lets you change the directory of images viewed.
Figure 38.11: You can use Windows Paint to rotate images.
Figure 38.12: You can use the Select tool to choose the area that you want to keep.
Figure 38.13: All the unnecessary parts of the image are removed by cropping.
Figure 38.14: With inadequate lighting, digital images can end up too dark.
Figure 38.15: By adjusting brightness and contrast levels in Photoshop, you can restore the image's clarity.
Figure 38.16: Unwanted objects can ruin a good digital picture.
Figure 38.17: By removing objects, the beauty of the image can be saved.
Figure 38.18: The Photo Printing Wizard lets you select the print size using various layouts.

Chapter 39: Scheduling Software Events

Figure 39.1: The Scheduled Task Wizard guides you in creating a new task.
Figure 39.2: Step 2 of the Scheduled Task Wizard lets you select a program to run.
Figure 39.3: Step 3 of the Scheduled Task Wizard lets you name the task and decide how often it is executed.
Figure 39.4: Step 4 of the Scheduled Task Wizard lets you specify a time and date for the task.
Figure 39.5: Step 5 of the Scheduled Task Wizard requires that you enter the username and password.
Figure 39.6: The final step of the Scheduled Task Wizard summarizes the settings.
Figure 39.7: The Details view shows the last time the task was run and the next time it will run.
Figure 39.8: The Task tab of a task's Properties dialog box lets you change the program and log in info.
Figure 39.9: The Schedule tab of a task's Properties dialog box lets you set the task's time and date.
Figure 39.10: The Schedule tab lets you include multiple schedules for the selected task.
Figure 39.11: The Advanced Schedule Options dialog box lets you set a task to repeat throughout the day.
Figure 39.12: The Settings tab of a task's Properties dialog box lets you set how the task is run.
Figure 39.13: The Services tab of the Administrative Tools folder lets you start and stop running services.
Figure 39.14: You can find parameters for a specific program within the Help file.
Figure 39.15: You can view program parameters by typing the /? parameter after the program's name.
Figure 39.16: You can add parameters to the end of the execution command in the Run field of the task's Properties dialog box.
Figure 39.17: You can add parameters to the end of the execution command in the Run dialog box.

Chapter 40: Synchronizing Your Data Files

Figure 40.1: All the secondary computers synchronize their briefcase files with the version stored in the master computer.
Figure 40.2: Briefcase uses this Update window to show the changes that it can make to edited files.
Figure 40.3: To change an update instruction, right-click the arrow and choose a different command.
Figure 40.4: Each manufacturer's PC interface program uses a different control window layout.

Chapter 41: Using Windows Remote Desktop

Figure 41.1: Use the Remote tab in System Properties to turn on Remote Desktop.
Figure 41.2: The Remote Desktop Users window identifies accounts on the host computer that can connect to this client.
Figure 41.3: Open the Windows Firewall settings from the Windows Security Center.
Figure 41.4: The Don't allow exceptions option should not be active.
Figure 41.5: The Exceptions list identifies programs that can pierce the Windows Firewall.
Figure 41.6: The User Accounts window enables you to select the account you want to use to connect to a client computer.
Figure 41.7: To assign a password, choose the Create a password option.
Figure 41.8: Enter your new password in the Create a password screen.
Figure 41.9: Note the Full computer name assigned to the host computer.
Figure 41.10: Use the Remote Desktop Connection window to set up a link to a client computer.
Figure 41.11: When a Remote Desktop link is active, the distant computer's desktop is visible on the host.
Figure 41.12: Choose Set up Remote Desktop Connection to install the client software.
Figure 41.13: The IP Configuration list shows the address of your router as the Default Gateway.
Figure 41.14: Your router's Port Forwarding (or Port Range Forwarding) options control access through the firewall.

Chapter 42: Playing, Creating, and Editing Sound

Figure 42.1: Windows Media Player highlights the current track that is playing.
Figure 42.2: Windows Media Player can be set to display colorful visualizations that move with the music.
Figure 42.3: The Library tab of the Windows Media Player displays all the digital albums available on your system.
Figure 42.4: The QuickTime Player is also available for Windows and provides a portal for the latest samples from the Internet.
Figure 42.5: The RealOne Player is yet another popular media player available on the Internet.
Figure 42.6: MusicMatch Player can display song and album titles from the Internet.
Figure 42.7: The media files Properties dialog box lets you change its default media player.
Figure 42.8: The Sound Recorder utility can record sound directly into the microphone.
Figure 42.9: The Rip window of Windows Media Player includes a button that can begin the ripping process.

Chapter 43: Viewing, Creating, and Editing Video

Figure 43.1: DVDs can load directly on a computer with a DVD drive and the appropriate software.
Figure 43.2: Media players, like this Creative Labs device, allow you to view video segments on the go.
Figure 43.3: Web cams like this Creative Labs device allow users across the Internet to communicate face-to-face.
Figure 43.4: Windows Movie Maker lets you combine pictures, video, and audio together.
Figure 43.5: Transitions can be added between each resource in the storyboard.
Figure 43.6: The Timeline lets you control how long a resource stays on the screen.
Figure 43.7: A USB connector can capture video from a variety of sources.
Figure 43.8: The Pinnacle video capture device lets you connect your digital video camera to your computer.
Figure 43.9: The Pinnacle Studio software lets you capture, edit, and save video segments as movie files.
Figure 43.10: External video capture devices can connect directly with video equipment.

Chapter 44: Connecting Your Computer to a Network or Another Computer

Figure 44.1: Early telephone service used a separate physical connection for every call.
Figure 44.2: The Well accepts logins from remote terminals.
Figure 44.3: A terminal emulator (top) normally connects directly to a host computer. A telnet program (bottom) connects to a host through the Internet.
Figure 44.4: Edit the URL: Telnet Protocol setting to set a new default telnet program.
Figure 44.5: A hub is a passive network connection point.
Figure 44.6: A switch sends incoming packets to specific destinations.
Figure 44.7: A small network usually includes a switch, a router, and a modem.
Figure 44.8: Use this connect window to place a call to your dial-up Internet account.
Figure 44.9: The status window provides information about an active network connection.
Figure 44.10: The LAN Connection Properties window provides access to configuration settings for many network clients, services, and protocols.
Figure 44.11: Use the Internet Protocol Properties window to set your computer's IP address and the addresses of the ISP's domain name servers.
Figure 44.12: The Advanced button in the General tab opens the Advanced TCP/IP settings dialog box.
Figure 44.13: The Device Manager shows the current status of your infrared transceiver.

Chapter 45: Sending and Receiving Faxes

Figure 45.1: The Windows Component Wizard lets you install additional components to Windows.
Figure 45.2: The Fax Configuration Wizard lets you enter personal information for creating fax cover pages.
Figure 45.3: The Fax Properties dialog box includes all the settings for the configured fax device.
Figure 45.4: The Fax Console can manage all faxes sent from and received by the local computer.
Figure 45.5: The first step of the Send Fax Wizard is to enter the information of the fax recipient.
Figure 45.6: By establishing a set of dialing rules for a location, you can tell the modem how to dial to get an outside line.
Figure 45.7: You can customize the cover page for the outgoing fax with a subject line and some notes.
Figure 45.8: You can schedule to send the fax anytime during the next 24 hours.
Figure 45.9: The Fax Monitor listens for incoming faxes.
Figure 45.10: When printing a document, you can choose to print to the fax device instead.
Figure 45.11: Microsoft Word includes its own Fax Wizard for sending out faxes.
Figure 45.12: Word's Fax Wizard lets you choose the cover letter style.
Figure 45.13: The Fax Cover Page Editor lets you create custom fax cover pages that include data from the Send Fax Wizard.
Figure 45.14: Several online services, such as eFax, enable you to send and receive faxes through the Internet.

Chapter 46: Using Your Computer on the Internet

Figure 46.1: The first step of the New Connection Wizard lets you choose the type of connection you want to create.
Figure 46.2: The second step of the New Connection Wizard lets you choose from different ways to sign up for ISP service.
Figure 46.3: The third step of the New Connection Wizard lets you choose the connection type.
Figure 46.4: The next step of the New Connection Wizard lets you give the connection a name.
Figure 46.5: Entering your username and password lets you automatically log in to the ISP.
Figure 46.6: When the Connection Wizard completes, the final page summarizes all the selected options.
Figure 46.7: The dial-up connection Properties dialog box lets you change the connection phone number.
Figure 46.9: The Security tab of the dial-up connection Properties dialog box lets you specify the encryption options for data on the server.
Figure 46.8: The Options tab of the dial-up connection Properties dialog box lets you specify how often the connection redials the number when a connection can't be made.
Figure 46.10: The Networking tab of the dial-up connection Properties dialog box lets you choose the communication protocol used to talk with the Internet servers.
Figure 46.11: The Advanced tab of the dial-up connection Properties dialog box lets you enable the Windows Firewall and configure sharing options.
Figure 46.12: The Authentication tab of the always on broadband connection Properties dialog box lets you specify which authentication options to use.
Figure 46.13: When a Web browser first opens, its default Web page automatically loads.
Figure 46.14: Sites like http://www.Google.com let you search the Web for specific information.
Figure 46.15: The Search sidebar within Internet Explorer lets you search for Web pages that contain the words you entered.
Figure 46.16: You can recall a list of favorite sites by clicking the Favorites button at the top of the browser.
Figure 46.17: The Add Favorite dialog box lets you add the current Web site to your Favorites list.
Figure 46.18: The Organize Favorites dialog box lets you rename links and move links between folders.
Figure 46.19: The History sidebar keeps track of the Web sites that you've visited over the last several days.
Figure 46.20: The Internet Options dialog box lets you configure the settings for Internet Explorer.
Figure 46.21: The Settings dialog box lets you change the size of the cache folder.
Figure 46.22: The Colors dialog box lets you change default browser colors for text and links.
Figure 46.23: The Fonts dialog box lets you change the default browser text font.
Figure 46.24: The View Text Size menu option can change the size of the Web page's text.
Figure 46.25: The Language Preference dialog box lets you add more languages to the list of languages that the Web page can use.
Figure 46.26: The Security tab of the Internet Options dialog box lets you set security settings for your browser.
Figure 46.27: The Security Settings dialog box lets you enable or disable specific security settings.
Figure 46.28: The Privacy tab of the Internet Options dialog box lets you set how the browser handles cookies.
Figure 46.29: The Content tab of the Internet Options dialog box lets you set content filters for blocking inappropriate content.
Figure 46.30: The Content Advisor dialog box lets you set the filter level for inappropriate content in a number of categories.
Figure 46.31: The General tab of the Content Advisor dialog box lets you set a supervisor password for the content filters.
Figure 46.32: The Connections tab of the Internet Options dialog box shows you the various ISP connections.
Figure 46.33: The ISP Settings dialog box for the selected connection lets you change the username and password.
Figure 46.34: The Programs tab of the Internet Options dialog box lets you select which programs get opened when their button is clicked in Internet Explorer.
Figure 46.35: The Internet Connection Wizard guides you through configuring your e-mail client.
Figure 46.36: The Internet Connection Wizard asks you to enter the names of the mail servers where the e-mails are stored.
Figure 46.37: The final step of the Internet Connection Wizard lets you specify your login information for accessing the ISP's mail server.
Figure 46.38: You can change the settings for each e-mail account using the Internet Accounts dialog box.
Figure 46.39: A new window opens when you create a new e-mail where you can enter the message text.
Figure 46.40: The Address Book can keep track of all the contact information for individuals.
Figure 46.41: Creating a new Address Book entry opens a dialog box where you can enter all the contact's information.
Figure 46.42: The e-mail client is integrated with the Address Book, enabling e-mail addresses to be automatically added to new e-mail messages.
Figure 46.43: This dialog box appears when you select to send and receive e-mails.
Figure 46.44: When reading received e-mails, the top half displays a list of received e-mails and the bottom half shows the contents of the selected e-mail.
Figure 46.45: Windows Messenger's Options dialog box lets you specify how the messaging application works.
Figure 46.46: Once logged in to Windows Messenger you can use the links at the bottom of the application.
Figure 46.47: Windows Messenger lets you communicate in real time with connected contacts.

Chapter 47: Using Virtual Private Networks

Figure 47.1: A virtual private network can connect a remote computer to a distant LAN.
Figure 47.2: A VPN can also connect a branch office LAN to a corporate network.
Figure 47.3: VPNs can add security to a wireless link.
Figure 47.4: A hidden VPN can isolate a computer from the rest of a network.
Figure 47.5: Choose the Connect to my workplace option to set up a VPN client.
Figure 47.6: The Network Connection screen includes a VPN option.
Figure 47.7: Choose the type of connection for your VPN end point.
Figure 47.8: Type the name or address of the VPN host.
Figure 47.9: The Connect window sets up a VPN link.
Figure 47.10: Choose the type of connection in the Properties window.

Chapter 48: Keeping Your Computer and Data Secure

Figure 48.1: Use the Windows Backup Utility to create or recover backup files.
Figure 48.2: Choose the folders you want to back up and the media where you want to store the copies.
Figure 48.3: Use the Restore and Manage Media tab to retrieve files from your backup media.
Figure 48.4: Use the User Accounts utility assigns or changes a password.
Figure 48.5: Use this dialog box to assign a new password to an account.
Figure 48.6: Encryption is an Advanced Attribute of a file or folder.
Figure 48.7: Turn on the Encrypt contents option to encrypt this file or folder.
Figure 48.8: Five different Wi-Fi networks are active in this neighborhood.
Figure 48.9: Choose an encrypted network from the list of preferred networks.
Figure 48.10: Use the Properties window to enter the network key for this Wi-Fi network.
Figure 48.11: The MAC address of a Wi-Fi adapter is normally marked on the device.
Figure 48.12: The MAC address for this Intel adapter appears near the bottom of the Properties window.
Figure 48.13: The Windows Security Center shows the current state of your security software.
Figure 48.14: The Windows Firewall window controls the firewall software.

Chapter 49: Preventing Trouble Through Maintenance

Figure 49.1: Disk Cleanup scans your local hard drives for temp files it can delete.
Figure 49.2: The Disk Cleanup utility shows you how much disk space you can regain by cleaning the hard drive.
Figure 49.3: If you select the Compress Old Files category, the Options button opens this dialog box.
Figure 49.4: The More Options tab of the Disk Cleanup utility lets you reclaim even more disk space.
Figure 49.5: The Disk Defragmenter utility shows the amount of Free Space available on the current drive.
Figure 49.6: After the hard drive has been analyzed, you can view a report that shows the fragmented files.
Figure 49.7: After you've defragmented the hard drive, much of the file data and free space collects together.
Figure 49.8: The Tools tab of the Local Disk Properties dialog box includes the Error-checking tool.
Figure 49.9: The Check Disk Local Disk dialog box includes options for how the hard drive is checked.
Figure 49.10: If you're having trouble running the Error-checking tool, you can schedule it to run the next time Windows is restarted.
Figure 49.11: The Command Prompt lets you execute commands such as chkdsk.
Figure 49.12: At the Command Prompt are several additional options for setting checking the hard disk.
Figure 49.13: The first step of the Backup or Restore Wizard starts the steps for configuring the Backup utility.
Figure 49.14: The second step of the Backup or Restore Wizard lets you choose to back up or restore files.
Figure 49.15: The third step of the Backup or Restore Wizard lets you choose which files to backup.
Figure 49.16: The Backup or Restore Wizard lets you select exactly which files to backup.
Figure 49.17: The fourth step of the Backup or Restore Wizard lets you select the backup location and its name.
Figure 49.18: The final page of the Backup or Restore Wizard summarizes the settings for the current configuration.

Chapter 50: Restoring Windows

Figure 50.1: The System Restore utility is used to create and restore existing restore points.
Figure 50.2: The System Restore utility can create restore points at any time.
Figure 50.3: All days that include a restore point are shown in bold.
Figure 50.4: The System Restore tab of the System Properties dialog box lets you configure and disable the System Restore utility.

Chapter 51: Troubleshooting-Finding the Problem After It Happens

Figure 51.1: The Windows Event Viewer lists errors and other events that may be related to a system problem.
Figure 51.2: Each event listed in the Event Viewer has a related Properties window with more detailed information.