My Computer Tutor

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 08 Jun 2014 23:11:00 +0000

What is Google+?

Google Plus is Google's new Social Network. Google says its 'New ways of sharing the right things with the right people'

Google has a range of free products that you can use with your Google Account. Have you been using or heard of Google Gmail, YouTube, Maps, Chrome, Blogger, Translate, Picasa, Books, Reader, etc?
Have you been using or heard of Google Gmail, YouTube, Maps, Chrome, Blogger, Translate, Picasa, Books, Reader, etc?
The idea is to make existing Google 'products' socially compatible, making your life on the net with Google easier! This means that once you have a Google+ account, you won't have to sign into different sites and accounts to share and update your activities, as all the information and functions from all of these will be integrated into the 'Google+ experience' Google Plus was introduced in 2011 and since then it has become one of the most active social networks with hundreds of millions of people having active accounts. In essence…Google has added a “social layer across the services” people love and use every day. We can see this includes search, Gmail, YouTube, Calendars, Android and so on…
Create a Profile and then you can introduce yourself, connect, share and engage your interests as; Yourself, a Brand or as a Business. Read all about Google Profiles in the next article... Google+ Profile; Introduce Yourself	Google + Menus_ Profile

Keyboard Shortcuts (Windows)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 29 Jul 2012 04:09:00 +0000

Keyboard Shortcuts with Free Download

As with all things ‘computer’ there are multiple ways to achieve a goal such as ‘Cut’, ‘Copy’, ‘Paste’ or Navigate your cursor around a document. When you are typing (or there is a lack of ‘menu’ present) it is sometimes more expedient to use your keyboard rather than your mouse to do things.

Keyboard Shortcuts help you save time by allowing you to never take your hands off the keyboard to use the mouse. Keyboard shortcuts use a combination of keys to achieve a Function’. For example: Have you ever wondered what that Ctrl key was for? Well, if you press and hold that down and then hit another key magical things will happen. The Shift and Alt keys can be used as well.

I also find that by taking your hand away from the keyboard to find your mouse to either click a Menu about your document or right click to find the ‘Options’ menus, you can distract your focus on the task at hand.

Keyboard shortcuts are also immensely handy for those of you who use a lap top ‘track pad’ (naughty) instead of a mouse, so….

Remember that you need to master Selecting (or highlighting) techniques first.[see the Selecting Text shortcuts]

Step 1 is to locate certain keys on your keyboard (as a lot of keyboards differ from one another)…

Ctrl (Control) -
usually the first and last keys on the bottom row

Shift -
usually the first and last key of the second bottom row

Navigation Keys -
usually grouped together or in a row downwards on the right hand side

Arrow Keys -
Bottom right

F Keys -
Very Top Row

Alt Key-
usually either side of the Space Bar

Now you have located the Ctrl, Alt, Shift, F, Arrow and Navigation Keys you can Download a printable version of this guide and keep them by your keyboard until you learn them ‘by heart’.

Remember that keyboards can be different so these shortcuts are a guide only. After you have printed this open up a word document and type some text. Then go through the shortcuts and make sure they work for you.

It’s always good practice to 'say' the commands as you perform them...(all geniuses talk to themselves) For example;

Copy Command: Ctrl+C

Say …‘hold Control and press C’

Here are a few to get you started...

MOST USED

Cut selected text Ctrl + X

Copy selected text Ctrl + C

Undo last edit Ctrl + Z

Paste selected text Ctrl + V

Redo last action Ctrl + Y

Task Manager (to stop a process when its stuck and taking forever to think about it or your computer is ‘frozen’)
Ctrl + Alt + Delete

SELECTING TEXT

Select All the text in a doc Ctrl + A

Select a Word at a time Shift + left/right arrow

Select a Sentence at a time Ctrl + one click of mouse

To Download your free Keyboard Shortcuts Guide Click here

Yours in Shortcutting
Kim-Denyse

www.mycomputertutor.net.au

IS THIS EMAIL FACT OR FICTION?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 17 Jun 2012 02:34:00 +0000

Is This Email Safe

Have you ever wondered if an email is safe to open? You receive heaps of emails per day –some are just business and some are from trusted friends who are sharing a laugh or supporting a ‘good cause’. But can these emails be harmful?

The answer is – YES they can!

Email Tracker Programs

Email tracking programs are designed to track the *cookies and email addresses of the contacts you forward messages on to. These Host senders don't care how they get your email addresses - just as long as they get them. Ignore them and don't participate!

*Cookie; a small piece of data sent from a website and stored in your web browser while you are browsing. When the you visit the same website in the future, the data previously stored in the cookie can be retrieved to notify the website of your previous activity

Guilty or Not Guilty?

Any time you see an email that says...

"forward this on to '10' (or however many) of your friends",
"sign this petition", or
"you'll get bad luck" or "you'll get good luck" or
"you'll see something funny on your screen after you send it"
demand you "send the email on if you're not ashamed of God/Jesus"
talk about a missing child or a child with an incurable disease "how would you feel if that was your child"

Or anything similar playing on our conscience - that is email tracking

These types of emails almost always has an Email Tracker Program attached to it.

This means that the ‘host’ sender (the people who attached the program originally) is getting a copy each time the message gets forwarded. The host is then able to steal lists of 'active' email addresses to use in SPAM emails or sell to other Spammers.

Petitions

Almost all emails that ask you to add your name and forward on to others have a tracking program attached. Email petitions are NOT acceptable to government or any other organisation - e.g. Social security, etc. To be acceptable, petitions must have a "signed signature" and full address of the person signing the petition, so this is a waste of time and you are just helping the email trackers.

For Example : a mass letter sent years ago, asked people to send business cards to the little kid in Florida who wanted to break the Guinness Book of Records for the most cards.
All it was, and all any of this type of email is, is a way to get names and 'cookie' tracking information for telemarketers and Spammers - to validate active email accounts for their own profitable purposes.

By Signing a petition you may think you are supporting a GREAT cause, but you are NOT! Instead, you will be getting tons of junk mail later and very possibly with a virus attached! Plus, you are helping the Spammers get rich! Do not make it easy for them!

So... STOP adding your name(s) to those types of listing regardless how inviting they might sound!

Don’t feel guilty if you don't! It's all about getting email addresses and nothing more.

Yes! You Can forward This Message On!

You can do your friends and family members a terrific favour by sending this information to them. You will spreading the word and also reducing the thousands of spam emails you are receiving now and in the future!

What else can I do if I am not sure?

Make it a practice to always delete all previous names from your emails before forwarding!
Send emails via the BCC field -then everyone after you doesn't get your friend's email address
Open up a Gmail account - Gmail is a Google product and serves as a fabulous spam filter

You can read more about how in the My Computer Tutor blog on How to Reduce Spam

If you need help with any of this please do not hesitate to contact me

Yours in Email Safety and dedication to spam reduction,

Kim-Denyse

My Computer Tutor

www.mycomputertutor.net.au kim@mycomputertutor.net.au

REF: snopes.com

Personal Folders in Outlook 03, 07 and 10

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 13 Jun 2012 02:59:00 +0000

Creating and Filing Personal Folders in
Outlook

Are you having problems filing your emails into Personal Folders?!!!

Are your folders not looking as though they are in Alphabetical order or are they lost when you go to find them again?

Well, Outlook has preset ‘Rules’ and you need to follow them. In the following My Computer Tutor Step-by-Step Guide you will learn

1. How to Create a New Folder and name it

2. How to Create and organise Folders within Folders

3. How to Drag and Drop (move) folders using the Right Click method

Once you understand how this works you will never lose a folder again!

Filing Rules in Outlook

Outlook gives you Personal Folders to start with: Inbox, Drafts, Sent Items, Deleted Items, Junk, Outbox, and Search Folders. Let’s call them 'Parent Folders'

They are preset in this order for a reason (by default) and there is NOTHING you can do about it – nor should you try!

Outlook HAS to file them that way and, try as I might I couldn’t get mine to do otherwise

Below is a screen shot of one of my email accounts (kim@mycomputertutor.net.au) to refer to:

As you create your own New Personal Folders you add them into your Inbox- no where else! Your new Folders are filed in Alphabetical order- (again nothing you can do about it)

EXAMPLE:

I created 4x New Folders in my Inbox:

1. MCT Clients, 2. MCT Promo Emails, 3. MCT Step-By-Step, 4. MCT Website Enquiries

HOW?

Right Click on Inbox / Left Click New Folder from the drop down Menu

A new window will appear

Type in the Name of your New Folder and make sure Inbox (or the destination folder) is Highlighted

Left Click OK

Voila! You have a New Personal Folder filed alphabetically in your Inbox - this one is called MCT Clients.

Now you can continue to create New Folders to file your emails in in categories that make sense to you.

I went on to create 3 others; MCT Promo, MCT SBS Guides, MCT Website Enquiries and they sit in line below one another in Alphabetical order

Example

Within my MCT Clients Folder I would like to create a folder for each of my students' emails under their name...

FOLDERS WITHIN FOLDERS

You can create Folders within Folders – using the same technique above... and you know that this has happened when you see a white arrow before the folder name (the Filing cabinet drawer is closed)

HINT: If You have 'lost' a folder chances are that you have wittingly or unwittingly dropped it into one where it doesn't belong

Click on the white arrow and it turns black and faces down (the Filing cabinet drawer is opened) – all your folders stored within that one will drop down in Alphabetical order. See Below

NB: Remember Numbers will always sort First

Moving Folders - Drag and Drop Method

To Move a Folder you simply Drag and Drop it i.e. Drag the folder from where it is (Source Folder) and Drop it into where you want it to go (Destination Folder).

It will then be filed Alphabetically within its ‘Destination Folder’

E.G. I am going to move the Sophie Kovacs Folder out of my MCT Clients Folder into my Personal Parent Folders (over the top of the email account kim@mycomputertutor.net.au) like this:

Now the Sophie Kovacs Folder is (a bit lost) filed by Outlook under Search

This is because Sophie’s Folder isn’t a Default Personal Folder (Parent) which, as we found out in the beginning, are immovable in their order.

So Sophie needs to be filed somewhere else…

If you Drag Sophie into the Inbox

she will be filed in Alphabetical order under the ‘M’ for MCT because she starts with ‘S’

I can leave Sophie here now if I choose or I can Drag and Drop her into one of my MCT Folders again

Now we will have a quick look at how you can sort your individual emails that are held within your folders just to round the lesson off…

Emails Within Personal Folders

Once you have filed your folders the emails contained in them are sorted by date received - with the newest on top by default (automatically)

f you want to sort your Emails Alphabetically …

Left Click the Arrange By heading above your email list
Left click From

Your Emails are now sorted Alphabetically by who they are from

In Summary

Outlook gives you Default (we’ll call them Parent) Folders for each Email account - that you cannot move
You create your own Personal Folders in your Inbox
These Personal folders are filed Alphabetically
You can create Folders within Folders, which are filed Alphabetically under the Personal Folder
You can open or close the Folder by clicking on the arrow
Your emails are sorted by Date received by default
You can sort these alphabetically by clicking on the Field header and choosing From

Perhaps I could have just written out this summary for you but I am a ‘big picture’ girl and believe that you need to know Why as well as How in order to fully understand Outlook’s quirks and perks. Once you learn the rules you can then utilise them to your own advantage!

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me – I love it! If you would like a printable version of this lesson to add to your collection email me or download it here

Yours in Outlook,

Kim-Denyse Certified TAA., Dip Bus.Mark.D

www.kimd.com.au

My Computer Tutor

M: 0412 942 937

Web: www.mycomputertutor.net.au MCT Social Network: http://mycomputertutor.ning.com

PS: Did you know you can pick up helpful Tips for free when you follow My Computer Tutor on the Major Social networking Sites?

kim.denyse

Why Do You Need My Computer Tutor?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 20 May 2012 10:00:00 +0000

Copy and Paste Word 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 20 May 2012 08:14:00 +0000

Cut/Copy /Paste

You have a document or email you are working on and you want to copy or cut either some text or an image. There are different ways to Cut/Copy & Paste text or an image depending on the program you are using. This lesson is based on Word 2010 but the skills you learn here are adaptable to many other programs and versions

2 WAYS

There are 2 main ways you can Cut Copy and Paste.

You can use the menu [watch Video] or
you can Right click and use the Options Menu.

I am a 'Right clicker' from way back as sometimes Menus are not easily found, don't exist or the act of looking up to find what I want is just distracting.

USING RIGHT CLICK

The easiest way to Cut/Copy and Paste is to use the Edit Menu that appears when you

Right Click in a document

The first thing to do is decide whether you want to copy it or cut it out and paste it somewhere else
The next thing is to select the text or image to be copied or moved

You can then paste this selection into a new position in the same document or another one

When you select text then use the Cut or Copy command,

your Operating System places it on what is normally an invisible Clipboard.

NB: Prerequisite skills: Select.

There is only one skill you need to master to do this lesson...

know how to Select (highlight) using either your mouse or keyboard

HOW TO ...Cut or Copy using the Options Menu (Right Click)

Using your Mouse...

Step 1: Highlight/Select

the text or image you want to move or copy by holding down the

left mouse button and dragging across and down if necessary.

Step 2: Right Click on the Highlighted text or image

an Options menus will appear...

Step 3. Left Click Cut or Copy

Step 4. Right Click on the Destination - where you want to paste it

Step 5. Left Click on Paste Options / Keep Source Formatting

You can use this method within one document or between 2 open documents!

If you would like a printable version of this lesson you can print it here

Apple Vs. Android Vs. Microsoft: How to Decide

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 22:06:00 +0000

Apple Vs. Android Vs. Microsoft:

How to Decide

an easy to comprehend comprehensive guide for beginners, the lost and confounded

iPad or Tablet? iPhone or 'the other ones'?

Are you confused by all of the hype re 'ithis's and 'androidthat's? For example did you ask Santa for an iPad this Christmas? Did you consider or even know that there is an alternative? I am not saying wanting an 'iThing' is a bad thing (being the owner of an iPhone and a Mac myself) but there are many things to consider when you are deciding what gizmo next to buy…

If you do not let technology rule your world but want to enjoy it here are some basic points for you to consider when thinking about investing in the latest, trendiest, most marketed devices. Yes, you can become a 'techy fashion victim' which means, if you don't consider all your options, being 'fashionable' can translate into stress, confusion and more importantly unnecessary expense

The Contenders

Consider the market as it stands today. To clarify it all there are 3 basic companies

1. Apple 2. Google 3. Microsoft

They each have their own operating systems (or OS) that they develop for certain devices (computers, phones and tablets). You will see the acromyms like OS, iOS, OSx
These devices run applications (or *Apps/Widgets) with which you create stuff (data i.e photos, docs, calendar entries, emails etc).

*An App is a web application /software/program that you download to your computer, phone or tablet. Some will only work with certain Operating systems

Data Is Stuff You Create

This data can be uploaded to a space, or created directly from a space, on the web (Cloud technology).
You can buy stuff (music, movies, apps etc) and download it using programs such as iTunes or Websites such as Amazon.

They also each have their own specific terms for basically the same thing. …

Who Does and Says What with Whom?

In a nutshell and in very broad terms:

Company	Operating System	Device examples	Software Terms	Cloud	Affiliates or Associations
Apple:	OSx or iOS Mac	Ph: iPhone Tab: iPad	Apps iTunes - sync Safari	iCloud	App Store
Google	Chrome Android Honey Comb Icecream Sandwich	Ph: Google Phone Tab: Chromebook	Apps/Widgets Google Chrome iGoogle	Cloud Google Apps	Amazon, Acer and others
Microsoft	Windows 7 Coming soon… Windows 8	Ph: Windows 7Phone Tab: Slate	Internet Explorer Bing MSN	Live Sky Drive	Nokia HTC XBox

All three of these companies have different specialities but before you buy your next gadget it may be a good thing to look at the futures of these companies…

The Way of the Future

Its very expensive to keep up with the world's technology explosion so it may serve us to look to the future and where these 3 companies stand in today's competitive market

Apple, Google and Microsoft are vying for industry dominance, competing to varying degrees on computer and mobile phone operating systems, hardware, applications, entertainment, search engine capabilities and more.

Least Likely: Apple

You don't believe me? … Well, although Apple is flying high now, it's the most vulnerable company of the major three. Unfortunately its because the Mac wave of success is built solely on the vision and talent of one person -- Steve Jobs. In most companies, if someone else replaced an existing CEO, the company would not suffer but not so with Apple. With Steve's passing and a good look at the company's floundering history prior to his reappearance, you need to consider who will be capable of filling his shoes. Far more than Microsoft or Google, Apple's business model requires constant XFactor releases in order to bring in huge profits. The question is can those Big Hits continue now?

Tops: Google

Of the three companies, Google is best positioned to thrive in the future. It has a near monopoly on Internet search, the core of the world economy's greatest growth engine. That gives it both an excellent base to expand upon, as well as a massive war chest it can depend on to fund new ventures. Google is well positioned to take advantage of the mobile device advertising boom that is likely to develop in the coming years. Although Google isn't likely to compete seriously against Microsoft in the operating systems and applications markets, it will become a 'player' in those businesses.

In Between: Microsoft

Finally, there's Microsoft, which falls somewhere between Apple and Google. Unlike Apple, it doesn't need blockbusters in order to grow. With a stranglehold on operating systems and productivity applications (software/programs), and with solid enterprise tools, it will grow steadily. Google won't be able to break its near monopoly.

The success of Windows 7 shows that the release of a new operating system still brings in plenty of revenue. Recently, Microsoft had a blowout quarter, increasing revenue by 14% over the year-earlier period, thanks to skyrocketing Windows 7 sales. Although Microsoft won't usurp Google as the Internet search leader, Bing shows that it can also be mighty profitable.

So looking ahead, expect Google to thrive, Microsoft to stay the course, and Apple eventually to lose its Steve Jobs-driven magic

*ref http://www.pcworld.com/article/189963/apple_vs_google_vs_microsoft_who_will_win.html

Stuff to Consider and Helpful Hints

Do you own a Mac or a Windows PC?

Considering all of the above, it also makes sense to buy a phone and a tablet that are compatible with your current PC's Operating system. Therefore;

if you own a

Mac then stick with Apple devices and peripherals and

if you own a

Windows PC then stick with Android or Windows devices.

This is not written in stone as everything is possible but this advice is for those who are not technologically minded and want to keep their lives simple and relatively stress free.

It is also advisable to ask your friends and family what they own. Afterall you will need some help at some stage and they are the likely people you will be communicating with. Keep it in the club

If you do plan to mix and match then factor in the cost of a reliable and versatile tech who is savvy in all aspects of the three major players

2. Do you us Gmail or Google Apps a lot?

All of the OS allow you to use Google but if you are a 'Google apps' user (even if its just Gmail and Picasa) remember that Google is the world leader of Internet search and cloud technology and you may experience some compatability issues if you aren't on an android device

3. What brand of phone do you own right now?

Its not that easy to transfer your data from phone to phone nowadays so again you may want to factor in IT assistance into your budget. SD cards differ from brand to brand and you also need to consider software compatibility when trying to transfer your precious stuff. E.g you cannot drag and drop to an iPhone whereas you can with a Nokia

4. Back-ups

Have you backed up your phone to your PC or cloud service including all your contacts, messages, photos emails and calendar entries? Did you know that an 'iPhone back up' does not include your photos or music? You need to do this before you attempt any transfer of data from one device to another.

5. What would you be using your tablet/pad for?

Tablets or Pads are not computers. They are a peripheral device. They bridge the gap between laptop computers and mobile smart phones in terms of size and functions. Their main functions are

Browse the internet
Basic Email – no attachments, or organisation
Movies
Books
Games

Did you know that Tablet Laptops (computers wth swivel touch screens) have been on the market for years?

The key is to look at how it will be used to determine which OS may best suit your needs. For example

If you want it to be just like a traditional PC, then a 'Windows 7 slate' may be best.
Media watching and gaming is probably best served by Apple's iOS.
If you want a more open platform with better multitasking, then Andriod might be the best choice.

Beyond the OS itself, buyers should also consider the types and number of applications available to each platform.

This means …Spend some time in the App store before you buy an iPad, as the software you use will really define what type of gadget you have. But you'll probably find that since last year, more apps are now allowing you to create content just as a laptop would. You also need to remember that a Google app for instance won't work on an iPhone or an iPad

6. Tablet Storage Space

While most people will not be carrying around as much data on a tablet as they would on a laptop, the amount of space on the tablet is still a major thing to consider. All tablets use solid state storage because of its ability to use very little power, uses less space and higher durability. The downside is limit storage space. Most tablets come with 16Gb , 32GB and 64GB of space which is extremely small compared to a laptop.

For those just browsing the web, streaming video and reading books, storage space won't be too critical. If on the other hand you are storing high definition movies or lots of games, consider getting a higher capacity model so you don't have to constantly shuffle what you want on your tablet when away from a PC.

You can't upgrade space on a tablet or iPad

7. Processors

The processors (their brain and speed at which they think) used in tablets can vary widely. Buyers will often need to know a bit more than than just 'cores' as can have big implications on the performance, battery life and size of the tablet PC. Unfortunately, this is a fairly complex subject so it is recommended to read the full Tablet PC Processor Guide for further information.

Pros and Cons

Apple

Pros:

the iPad 2 is a much thinner device than its prototype so its size and shape is great for travelling and working out of the office
2x Cameras – still and video for conferencing with 'Facetime' (like 'Skype'). Not meant for high quality photography the still camera is a new feature
Apps including iMovie (movie editing) and Garage Band (music composition)
Great Battery Life (but you can't remove it)
Some have 3G (can use a 3G dongle or modem) and others only have WiFi (wireless detection)

Cons:

Despite my veneration for Apple, however, aspects of the iPad experience are not so great…

Apple has a stranglehold on the stuff you are allowed to use and how you use it - the company rigidly controls which third party apps are released to the public through the 'App Store'. By rejecting apps that do not meet its guidelines or policies, Apple has full control over what you download to your Mac PC, iPhone and iPad. Apple's systems are cohesive and consistent but their restrictions limit your experience through a lack of openness and flexibility; personally, I don't like being controlled.
More significantly, Apple's policies ensure that it participates in all financial transactions taking place on the iPhone and iPad. This explains why Apple locks down the platform (operating system's stuff including yours). e.g. you can't transfer music or apps that you have purchased to any other device that is not an 'isomething' with iTunes installed. This means you have to 'jailbreak' your devices to access the use of anything they don't want you to.
Screen: The iPad screen resolution isn't necessarily bad, but you won't be able to watch content as high quality as you could on another tablet.
No extra features

No USB,
no SD card reader
no removable battery – rivals such as Samsung and Motorola are delivering in the features department.
Can't upgrade the storage space

5. Yes, the iPad comes with a HD connection kit (enables you to watch TV), but it Costs extra

Until Apple starts putting in extra functionality the iPad could be a second-choice for some tablet owners.Price – they cost considerably more than other Brand Tablets

No Flash: some websites and games won't work
PS: Yes - Apple is prone to viruses!

Android

Google's Android operating system (the new ones are called Honeycomb and Icecream Sandwich) an alternative to Apple's iOS, runs on a range of phones and tablets. Android offers several significant advantages over iOS, including:

An open ecosystem unrestricted by Apple's control
True multitasking; notifications and background events simply happen
Excellent Google applications that mimic their desktop counterparts
A superior browser, which includes Flash and tabbed browsing

Cloud Backup

Android users have been able to store items in the cloud for some time, including purchased apps and now music (with Google Music) and photos (via Google+). Apple is playing catch-up in some ways with the addition of iCloud, which includes syncing apps across all your devices, although both services are reaching music and photo storage around the same time. iCloud also syncs your documents. Skydrive is yet to pass muster

Some Android Alternatives to iPad

Chromebook: In the next few weeks, Google Australia will release the Google Chromebook, a stateless device which enables instant on web computing with no software to manage, no backup required, with a form factor similar to a notebook and a price point expected to be less than a new mobile phone. You can buy at least two Chromebooks for the price of one iPad.
Motorola Xoom, which has important hardware features that improve on the iPad. I especially like the high-resolution screen, better quality speakers, and ability to expand storage with a micro SD card.
Sony Tablet runs Google's operating system Android 3.1 Honeycomb. They feature touchscreens, two cameras (a rear-facing 5 MP, a front-facing 0.3 MP), infrared sensor, Wi-Fi. They support PlayStation Suite, DLNA, and are 3G/4G compatible. They will retail for US$499-599
Galaxy Tab: The Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 proves that it's not only Apple that can produce truly lovely hardware. This tablet is lighter and thinner than the iPad 2, at 8.6mm thick and 565g. These trimmed-down figures, 15g lighter, 0.2mm thinner, are too slight to notice in real life usage, but competing with an iPad 2 on these fronts is something no Android tablet has managed previously.

Android Alternatives to iPhone

Watch This You Tube Video Comparing Galaxy Nexus and iPhone

So which phone are you going for: the iPhone 4S or the new Galaxy Nexus?

References

Ref http://www.smartcompany.com.au/information-technology/20110325-should-you-buy-an-ipad-2-the-pros-and-cons.html

http://compreviews.about.com/od/buyers/bb/Tablet-PC-Buyers-Guide.htm

http://www.pcworld.com/article/242139/apples_ios_5_vs_googles_android_40_ice_cream_sandwich.html

http://www.careace.net/2011/11/14/samsung-galaxy-nexus-vs-apple-iphone-4-s-video/

The elephant in the room

And then there is a smarty pantz that finds an alternative to all of it. An interesting comment I found in a forum from someone who feels he has solved the conundrum with one device that does it all: http://www.zdnet.com/tb/1-100699?tag=talkback-river;1_100699_1962510#1_100699_1962510

@kitko Thank you. I run Android on a 480X800 pixel Zio phone and do practically everything anyone with any Android OS device or iPad does on a daily basis: Kindle, Google, Office, PDF markups, YouTube, Facebook, email, drum machine/sequencer/sampler, guitar tuner, GPS with on-board maps (no data connection needed), music player, video player, voice recorder, still camera, video camera, RTA audio spectral analyzer, news and weather, MicroSD card reader, FREE VoIP phone calls from anywhere on the planet with wifi, and even a Stark Trek tricorder. Oh, and it ALL fits in my pocket with enough room left over for the money clip holding the $600 I saved by NOT buying an iPad.

In Summary

There is so much more to tell you and so much info out there that I have managed to rewrite, cull and extract this many times. My suggestion is 'Google it'. Go for big if you can afford it and remember that today's 'high end' is tomorrow's 'daggy' (Yes I am Australian). So get off the 'what's fashionable' bandwagon and look at what you want, why you want it, what will you do with it, which one will be easier or best suited to your skill levels and the least expensive. Be Sensible with an adventurous twist. The most expensive is not always the best and in the technology world Mix and Match is an art form and you will need help.Look to your family and friends and if all else fails there's me or your IT guy. I have a Mac 'wiggle' (in-joke but watch the stance of someone when they say 'I have a Mac and you'll get my drift) the Windows Smile and the Google Shine. That's why I sometimes get my mords wixed and have developed a funny tick with a touch of Teretz developing

Above all learn about what you currently own and what you desire to own because only then will you discover how much you will gain from becoming an active participant in the new world we live in…ITs easy when you know how

Best Regards,

By My Computer Tutor Kim-Denyse Dip.Bus.M.D CertIVTAA kim@mycomputertutor.net.au

How to Send Attachments with "Windows Live" or "Hotmail" for Absolute B...

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 21:44:00 +0000

How to Reduce Image Size using Windows 7 & Paint

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 08:25:00 +0000

What is a Java Update and is it Safe?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:13:00 +0000

Safe Updates: Java

I receive many calls and emails in regards to 'UPDATES' and many of you don’t do them (‘eek!’) because you are unsure whether it is safe to do so

Please remember that its OK not to know these things because no one told you in the first place and this knowledge will help to save you time stress and in the end… money

Many are very safe and, in fact, to ensure the security of your PC, its a good thing to do. Updates are usually intended to fix security problems, which makes your computer safer

In order to help you make sense of the confusion I thought I’d put together a quick Step-By-Step for the main ones that will pop up and nag you from time to time [print Page 3.]

What Is Java?

An icon is appearing down the bottom in your task bar, that looks like a little orange coffee cup and it keeps asking you to update something called; JAVA

As you may or may not know, computer programs are written in different technical languages. One of these languages is called 'Java'. A program written in Java will work on many different kinds of computers, such as PCs and Macs.

from the java site def: Java is a programming language and computing platform first released by Sun Microsystems in 1995. It is the underlying technology that powers state-of-the-art programs including utilities, games, and business applications. Java runs on more than 850 million personal computers worldwide, and on billions of devices worldwide, including mobile and TV devices.

In other words Java allows you to do such things as

chat with family and friends worldwide,
play online games,
view images, just to name a few.

It's also integral to the intranet applications and other e-business solutions that are the foundation of corporate computing.

Why do I need Java?

There are lots of applications and websites that won't work unless you have Java installed, and more are created every day.

Java is fast, secure, and reliable. From laptops to data centres, game consoles to scientific supercomputers, mobile phones to the Internet, Java is everywhere!

Is Java free to download?

Yes, Java is free to download. Get the latest version at http://java.com.

Why Java Needs Updating

The Java program already exists on your PC if it is asking to be updated. To run programs written in Java language, you need a Java "runtime environment." So if your computer is nagging you to "update Java," then your computer has a Java runtime environment already— and it is out of date.

Java is NOT JavaScript. They are completely different. They share a name only because of a marketing decision made by Netscape and Sun years and years ago. Many web pages rely on JavaScript for important features you want.

What You Should Do

You have two reasonable choices:

Update Java whenever you are asked to. This is safe— the Java runtime environment is a product of Sun Microsystems, a very respectable company. It is already on your computer. When you refuse to update Java (or Windows, or MacOS...) you are often taking a very big risk by refusing to fix security problems.
Uninstall Java completely. Yes, you can do this and it is safe. The negative consequence is that if you are using any programs or websites that rely on Java, you will not be able to use those programs or websites correctly any more unless you install Java again.

HINT: Updates are necessary – Upgrades are not

UPDATE JAVA: Step-by-Step

When a balloon pops up and asks you to install Java Updates

HOW?

Left click

Say Yes
The Java Update Available screen will appear
Left Click Install
The Java Setup will begin

Left Click Install again

The installation will begin showing you its progress. You do not have to do anything more

The Writing underneath is an ad for a freeware program call open office... ignore it at this point and ask me about it later

Note from MCT

Print the previous page and file it into your My Computer Tutor folder for future reference

When updating your programs the principles are basically the same

I will send you more of these handy guides as soon as I put them together

Please remember that its OK not to know these things because no one told you in the first place and this knowledge will help to save you time stress and in the end… money

Knowledge on how to maintain the health of your computer and how to stay safe on the net is becoming increasingly important, so please do not hesitate to continue to contact me with any concerns

Yours in PC Peace

Kim-Denyse

My Computer Tutor

PS: Stop stressing for hours alone in front of your PC. You are not alone.

Email: mycomptutor@gmail.com Or contact me via the website www.mycomputertutor.net.au

I Can't Open an Email Attachment

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 02 Oct 2010 23:59:00 +0000

Email Attachments Not Opening?

New Technology often causes Lost 'File to Program Associations'

Recently I have had a lot of phone calls and pleas for help regarding emails. ' I can't open some of my emails!!!'. What they really mean is that they can't open their email 'Attachment'...and its only SOME attachments not all of them.

Strange? Not really... its to be expected.

Operating Systems and their Compatible Programs

People are becoming increasingly confused with 'programs' and 'files' and what opens what. This is due to the constant development of new operating systems, compatible programs and the difficulties you face dealing with the transitions.

For each new Windows Operating System that comes out, Microsoft releases a new version of Office

1. XP=Office 2003

2. Vista = Office 2007

3. W7= Office 2010

This creates a problem for those who own Microsoft Office 2003 or previous versions:

You cannot open any file created with MS Office 2007 or 2010 without downloading a Compatability Viewer first (here's the link Compatibility Pack : CLICK HERE)

Another reason could be that they own a Mac and have produced the file with a Mac program that Windows PCs can't read

REMEMBER: Nowadays nothing is constant nor consistent when we speak of operating systems and their compatible programs

Programs and File Extensions
So how do you overcome this situation?

When you create and save a file using a program, the name of the file is followed by a dot and then a file extention of 3 letters which tell you which program will open it.

Example:
.doc means that the file has been created with the MS Office Word 2003 program
.docx means that the file has been created with the MS Office Word 2007 or 2010 programs

HINT: when you send a file as an attachment it is probably best to send it in a .pdf file format (unless you want the receiver to be able to edit it)

Lost File Associations
If you can’t open a file it will probably have an icon that looks like this:

The reason is that your computer doesn’t know what type of file it is and can’t find a program to open it. It may have merely 'Forgotten' or someone sent you a file produced with a program your computer doesn't recognise

Why this happens varies, so its probably best to just know a solution that just may fix it.

There are a couple of different ways to do this ...

Right click on the icon.
from the Drop Down 'Options Menu'
Left Click

‘Open with’: and choose a program you think may open it. Look for a box to tick when you want your computer to always open an unidentified icon with this specific program because you are reasonable certain that you know which one will open the file

or
2. ‘Rename’ is a shorter and faster method to use when you are not sure which program to use

I have a 'Lost File Association' Step-By-Step Guide to restoring lost file extensions so please contact me so I can send it to you

Its a quick fix so if this doesn't work be sure to contact me so we can get to the bottom of it

Kind Regards

Kim-Denyse CertIV TAE, Dip Bus
My Computer Tutor
kim@mycomputertutor.net.au

Dottie King Lion's Club Award

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 27 Jun 2010 01:48:00 +0000

I was recently humbled and quite honoured to attend the Southport Lion's Club Installation Dinner for 2010 as a guest of one of my inspirational students, Mrs Dottie King

The Dinner was held at the Southport Golf Club and I was treated to not only a scrumptious meal but to meeting the members of Lions Clubs from not only the local area but from overseas as well

Dottie was surprised when they presented her with the Frank O'Brien Memorial Shield Award for her invaluable contribution to the Lions for the publication of the Southport Lion's Club Bulletin on the night.

I was completely overcome when Dottie included me in a couple of paragrahs in her latest publication on the Editor's page as well as mentioning me as she received her prestigious Award (We won't mention that I was doing a contortionous act quietly in the corner trying to take photos in ungainly positions at the time!)

This is what she said...

Twelve months ago, when I accepted the position of Bulletin Editor, I thought to myself "why did I volunteer?" as I only knew the bare basics of the workings of a computer.

I could type a letter, send and receive emails, 'GOOGLE' things like the weather or something that I wanted to learn more about. I could also play "Spider Solitaire" until I was cross-eyed.

But, put a bulletin together, now that was a whole new ball game! So I enlisted the help of the very bestest computer tutor, Kim-Denyse. She has shown me soooo much, and she is so patient when I make a mistake or don't understand what she is trying to teach me. And we have a lot of fun doing it. As well as showing me the basics of putting a bulletin together she has taught me lots of other things that you can do on a computer. Without Kim-Denyse's help and guidance you would have had a very ordinary bulletin.

People often ask me why I chose to start a business teaching people computers from the beginning, well read on and you have my answer...

ABOUT DOTTIE

Dottie was referred to me by one of her friends, Wendy to whom I shall always be very thankful. When I turned up for our first night of 'lessons' I was greeted a tiny woman with the most amazing sparkling eyes that I was soon to find out reflected an equally shining heart.

Apart from being a full time carer for her equally amazing Lion and decorated vetran husband, Ray, who recently celebrated his 90th birthday and has unfortunately become a stroke victim... She had recently volunteered to become the Editor of the Southport Lion's Club Bulletin and although she was a pretty speedy typist! (putting my skills to shame), she felt the task quite daunting and wanted to enlist my help. So for the past year it has been my distinct pleasure not only to help Dottie create the Southport Lion's Club Bulletin which is published quarterly, but also be inspired by such a selfless and giving woman. Great things sure do come in small packages!

Up until now Dottie and Ray have been unsung heroes for decades with their tireless work they do for the Lion's Club. This tiny woman with the true heart of a lion makes a real difference in the lives of others by her words, her creativity and her never ending thirst for knowledge

So if you are looking looking for some inspiration as to what you can achieve with your computer, just look to Dottie as an example.

Regards

Kim-Denyse

My Computer Tutor

mycomptutor@gmail.com

PS: If you are interested in joining the Lions Club or want information regarding this article please do not hesitate to contact me

What is Phishing?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 25 May 2010 06:38:00 +0000

One of the most Frequently asked Questions by new and experienced computer users alike is 'What is Phishing?'

I came across an article on this phishy subject (that may be a little outdated but it is still really well written and easy to understand) and thought I would share to save you the search for youreslves

Hey..ITs easy when you know how!

Let's Not Go Phishing
So you open your email inbox and the message states: "We suspect an unauthorized transaction on your credit card account. To ensure that your account is not compromised, please click the link below and confirm your identity." The graphics and company logo appear just as they do on your credit card company’s website. The email message follows the same format as the company announcements, newsletters, and updates you received in the past via email.

In all likelihood, the message was not from your credit card company, but was a scam. A person probably copied the graphics from the company’s website and formatted the email message to appear like typical company emails. What would have happened if you had clicked on the link within the email message and entered personal information? Your information would have been sold, along with many other people’s information, to be used in identity theft scams.

Exploiting the Internet to scam people into revealing their personal or credit card information by pretending to be a company they do business with is called phishing. Phishers scam people by "fishing" for personal and financial information from unsuspecting customers and use the information for monetary gain.

Phishing is a lucrative business. According to a study by the Better Business Bureau and Javelin Strategy & Research, 8.9 million people were the victims of online fraud or identity theft last year. The average consumer suffered a loss of $6,383.

what can you do to avoid getting “hooked” by a phishing scam?

• Don’t reply to emails that ask for personal or financial information. Legitimate companies that you are already doing business with do not ask for personal or financial information via email.

• Never click links within emails that ask for personal or financial information. Hackers can retrieve information from your computer in numerous ways including accessing stored information and monitoring keystrokes.

• Avoid cutting and pasting links from an email message into a new browser window. Many people think this will help them determine if a website is legitimate; however, phishers can make links appear like they go to a legitimate site, while sending you to another website they control.

• Never call company phone numbers listed in an email. A common scam asks you to call the phone number listed in the email to update your account information. Sophisticated technology can mask an area code and divert the call anywhere. If you need to reach a company, call the number printed on your financial statements, credit card, or the company website.

• Don’t email personal or financial information and always keep your account passwords private.

• Use anti-virus and anti-spyware software, a firewall, and spam filters. Update these regularly!

• Be wary of emails that seem urgent. Phishing emails often state that immediate action is required to tempt you to respond without thinking.

• Pay close attention to the web address if you choose to access a company’s website through an email link. Some phishers register domain names that look very similar to the legitimate domain name of a company. If there is any doubt, open a new browser window and type the web address yourself.

how can you tell if you’ve been scammed?

No matter how diligent you are, phishing scams are deceptive and it is easy to be tricked into revealing your private information. Be sure to remain alert and read your credit card and bank statements as soon as they arrive.

Also, if you are a United States citizen you should check your credit report regularly to look for any new accounts or suspicious activity. The Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act grants us a report from each of the three nationwide consumer credit reporting companies once every twelve months. Go to www.annualcreditreport.com for information on how to order a free annual credit report.

what do you do if you think you've been scammed?

Forward deceptive emails to spam@uce.gov. The Federal Trade Commission uses these to pursue legal actions against people who operate scams within the United States.

You can also forward the email to the appropriate email address of the company that is represented. Most companies have sections on their website to deal with fraud, spam, and identity theft.

If you are a US victim of online phishing, visit the FTC’s Identity Theft website to review the steps you need to take if you are a victim of fraud.

Be smart about the emails and offers you receive and think logically to minimize your risk of getting hooked. If you are proactive and review your credit report and financial statements regularly, you may be able to catch fraud early before any significant damage occurs. And if you’re on the lookout for deceptive and fraudulent emails, you will learn how to spot the sharks in these online phishing scams!

REF : KELLY L. POTTER

DECEMBER 3, 2006

Smilebox Playback

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 09 May 2010 03:40:00 +0000

Smilebox : Step-By-Step Guide

www.smilebox.com is a free program you can download and create your own ecards, slideshows, scapbooks and more

Turn your snapshots of life’s special moments into digital creations with the free to download program Smilebox®!

Learn how to easy share both photos and video as presentations with friends, family and even on your website

There are hundreds of ecard, scrapbooking, and slideshow designs for every occasion to choose from with new designs being released weekly

Your Smilebox® creation can be personalised and shared for free, or for a more professional look you can pay a small amount to access their premium options for DVD burning, print, and more music choices. Advertisements will appear on the free versions (this is how they survive) but when you opt for the Premium of course the ads will disappear

Its Easy!
I have written MCT Step-by-Step Guide on How to Smilebox

Download it here

Yours in Creativity,

Kim-Denyse DIP.BUS.MARK.D
My Computer Tutor
www.mycomputertutor.net.au mycomptutor@gmail.com

PS: If you would like to learn how to manage and enhance your photos before you make your Smilebox creations why not get a group of friends and family together for a autumn/winter’s Sunday afternoon MCT Photos workshop?

Contact me now for more information and available dates

APRIL NEWS: NEW WEBSITE AND WEEKEND WORKSHOPS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 06:15:00 +0000

I have news that may be of interest to you...

My Computer Tutor has a new and improved website with a little (HUGE) amount of help from my dear friend and computer genius Murray McAuliffe.

To check it out click on this link: (or copy and paste it into your address bar) www.mycomputertutor.net.au

Now you can contact me directly from there as well, by using the Contact Form that is on every page. You can also purchase the My Computer Tutor Course CDs from the Downloads page (great gift idea!).

Its brand new so I still have a couple of things to fiddle, fix and add. If you are curious enough to find some time to have a click around it and test it out, I would be very appreciative. (HINT: click on the Amazon Link to purchase your favourite books and CDs online). Any and all suggestions are welcome!

There is also a link to the Ning My Computer Tutor Network Site, so you can always get there quickly and easily to stay on contact with the other students or develop your own webpage (to promote your own stuff for free). I will also be constantly uploading Free Stuff on the My Computer Tutor Step-By-Step Guides Blogand you can 'Follow' me on Twitter if you tweet

Thanks to your continued support I am working towards my ultimate goal. My dream is to build a sustainable business teaching and selling the courses and workshops (I am constantly writing and rewriting), to not only Beginners, the Lost and the Confounded, but also to those Government
Agencies, Corporate and Philanthropic organisations who have the capacity to help people who (through life's unfairness) don't have the resources readily available to them e.g. at risk youth, indigenous Australians, women in 3^rd world countries, people with learning and physical disabilities, people who live in remote areas and the list goes on.I studied for my Diploma in Business Marketing and Cert IV in Business Management with higher goals than just the usual in mind

My Computer Tutor fills the void for providing ethical service and support to everyone who needs a helping hand in the confusion of this ever changing technological world, so that they can keep up and achieve whatever goals and dreams that they wish to achieve, safely and economically. Eventually I will be publishing a book on the subject and am eager to start Key Note speaking at community events.

I will begin to market the My Computer Tutor: Essential Computer Workshops in the next couple of weeks to Job Network Service Providers (for the long term
unemployed), Clubs, Groups and small businesses. If you know anyone you think would benefit from them or like to have me come and keynote speak at a function my hand is up!

Another IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT:

I have recently developed a workshop on just Photos... how to import, scan, edit, email, create slideshows, upload them to web albums and a lot more!

This workshop is not only essential for home use but for people who are Scrapbooking, researching their ancestry, businesses who are marketing their product, artists, fashion designers etc etc

You have a choice between

attending a 3 hour Workshop that will be held at Quick Smart Computers on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon 2-5 (min 3 people) @$75ea
1 to 1 tuition in your home (or in my home office) for $135 (+ $10 travelling exp if you live north of Main Beach, south of Miami or west of Merrimac)

You will receive a free Picasa program and a Course CD + 1 free hour of remote assistance after the course

Why not phone a friend or two for a fun afternoon together?

Please contact me ASAP to book in your preferred date and time. First in best dressed.

My joy has been, and will always be, working One 2 One with you and I wish to thank you so much for all of your continuing support.

If I don't hear from you I will assume that you have reached your goals and you are happy with what you are currently doing, but... remember that I am here if you need me, whether I come to your home, you come to me, or I provide immediate remote assistance.

Help is only a phone call or an email away

I look forward to hearing from you soon

PS: remember you can call me on SKYPE for FREE kim.denyse

Importing Contacts From CSV into MS Outlook 07

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 11:42:00 +0000

MCT Step-By-Step Guide: Importing Contacts Otlk07

import contacts to outlook 2007

possible scenarios

You have a new Outlook 2007 program and you want to transfer all your contacts from your web based email program e.g. Gmail into it

This Step-By-Step guide assumes you have saved your contacts to a .csv file from your Gmail account to your desktop [see Export Contacts from Gmail]

Now you can have all of your contacts in both your Gmail account and your Outlook account

Click here for your Free MCT Step-By-Step Guide (printer friendly)

PS: If you are a novice computer user and would like to do a full Emailing Essentials course just go to the MCT website where you can purchase a Course CD or Enrol in the famous BLC courses with the computer fairy princess, Kim-Denyse
http://www.mycomputertutor.net.au/

Exporting Contacts from Gmail to CSV

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 10:55:00 +0000

©STEP-BY-STEP GUIDES: EMAILING: GMAIL: CONTACTS: EXPORT

export contacts from gmail to .csv format

possible scenario

You have an existing a web based email account, for example Gmail
You now want to transfer your contacts to another email program e.g. MS Outlook

The first step is to export your contacts by converting them to one .csv file that can be opened with MS Excel

Click here for your Free MCT Step-By-Step Guide (printer friendly)

Step 2. is to go to your Outlook and import this .csv file Its easy…

IMPORT CSV. TO OUTLOOK

http://www.mycomputertutor.net.au/

How to Import Contacts to Gmail from a .csv file

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 10:11:00 +0000

import contacts to gmail or web mail account

possible scenarios

You have opened up a new webmail account e.g. Gmail and you want to transfer all your contacts from your PC based email program to your new web based email program

This Step-By-Step guide assumes you have saved your contacts to a .csv file

[see exporting contacts to a .csv file]

This MCT SBS Guide shows you how to import contacts to Gmail from another program's .csv file

How?

Click here for your Free MCT Step-By-Step Guide (printer friendly)

Exporting Contacts from MS Outlook to a .csv File

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 09:14:00 +0000

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDES: EMAILING: OUTLOOK 2007: CONTACTS: EXPORT

export contacts from outlook to .Csv

possible scenario

You have opened up a web based email account because you are travelling or because you have changed your ISP
You currently have all of your contacts in MS Outlook 2007 and want to copy them all to your new web mail account e.g. Gmail
First you need to export your contacts by converting them to one .csv file that can be opened with MS Excel
Then you go to your webmail account and import this .csv file

Its easy…

Click here for your Free MCT Step-By-Step Guide (printer friendly)

www.mycomputertutor.net.au

import contacts from Outlook Express or Windows Mail to Outlook 2007

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 07:41:00 +0000

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDES: EMAILING: OUTLOOK 2007: CONTACTS: IMPORT

import contacts from outlook express or windows mail to outlook 2007

possible scenario

You have just bought the newest version of Microsoft office 2007’s Outlook email program
Previously you have been using Outlook Express with your XP operating System
All of you contacts are in Outlook Express and you would like to transfer them to Outlook 2007

Click on this link for your Free MCT Step-By-Step Guide (printer friendly)

PS: If you are a novice computer user and would like to do a full Emailing Essentials course just go to the MCT website where you can purchase a Course CD or Enrol in the famous BLC courses with the computer fairy princess, Kim-Denyse
http://www.mycomputertutor.net.au/

Computer Not Starting? What You Can Do

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:35:00 +0000

Computers Behaving Badly: Shut Downs

DIY Diagnosis and Solutions

I woke up this morning and in the night my computer decided it had had enough and decided on its own volition to shut itself down! Why? Is it confused, tired, does it disapprove of something? Or is it a 'sign from above' that I need to take more care of it?

In all things computers 'forewarned is forearmed'. Knowledge is power so take the emotion out of the picture (its very stressful when they start to misbehave) and look at the symptoms...

Common Hardware Faults

Symptom 1: Computer does not start, no lights on the computer, no sounds from the computer, the monitor is blank or displays no signal

Possible Solutions 1 - Desktop Computer

Check that the power to the computer is on and that the power cables are plugged in securely. (you may laugh but I have had to fix many computers over the years this way, and it is a very expensive oversight).
If the power cables are in securely then remove the power cable from the computer completely and leave it out for 3 minutes (approx) and then reattach it and try starting the computer again. (sometimes computers develop a power loop on the motherboards and this needs to discharge before it will start).

If it is still not working

Check to see if the power supply is working by placing your hand at the back of the computer where you plugged in the power cable, if the fan is spinning you should feel a small breeze on your palm.

Diagnosis

If there is no breeze then the problem is most likely a blown power supply. (average cost apprx $80). I would recommend you have this repaired by a technician but it is something you will be able to do yourself.

Possible Solutions 2 - Laptop Computer
1. Check that the power to the laptop is on and that the power cables are plugged in securely.

2. If the power cables are in securely then remove the power cable from the laptop completely and also turn the laptop over and remove the internal battery.

Generally the batteries in most laptops are held in by clips (switches) so move those to the unlock position and release the battery. (these devices commonly develop a power loop and I have pacified numerous distressed clients extremely quickly and inexpensively using just this technique).

3. Whilst the battery is out plug back in the power supply (adaptor) and try to restart the laptop, if it does not start remove the power supply and plug the battery back in.

4. Try to restart the laptop.

Diagnosis

If the laptop starts with the battery in and power supply out but doesn't start with just the power supply in then you have a faulty power supply. (costs vary depending on the make and model of the laptop but these items can be purchased online at the cheapest rate). If the laptop starts with the power supply in and the battery out but doesn't start with both in then you have a faulty battery. (very rare and once again replacement costs vary depending on make and model)

If the laptop fails to restart after trying all of these techniques then the problem is a hardware fault inside the laptop and most likely (unless it is under warranty) is not worth repairing as the labour and replacement costs will match or exceed the cost of purchasing a new laptop.

as I said Knowledge is power...

Warm Regards
Kim-Denyse

My Computer Tutor
www.mycomputertutor.net.au

Computers Behaving Badly: Part I

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 22:37:00 +0000

The facts of life are that your computer is going to have a hissy fit and misbehave eventually

It’s a frightening and stressful experience as you contemplate losing all your work, hefty repair bills and major loss of time…not to mention the inconvenience of being without it

Most of the stress is caused by not knowing what is going on and as you hand over your life’s work to a Swahili speaking technician, you are at his/her mercy

Well, knowledge is power and like it or not you need to learn a leetle bit of techy talk to alleviate your pain

It is my mission to help you understand in the simplest terms what you need to know as a computer owner/operator in order for you to take back some control and save you that imminent nervous breakdown, stroke, heart attack and major financial set back

Computers really aren't all that mysterious. All types of computers consist of two basic parts:

Hardware and Software

Anything you buy for your computer can be classified as either hardware or software

1. Hardware is any part of your computer that has a physical structure, e.g. the computer monitor or keyboard

If you can touch it, it is hardware

“Hardware: The parts of a computer system that can be kicked.” (Jeff Pesis)

2. Software is any set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do

It guides the hardware and tells it how to accomplish each task. Software can be downloaded from the internet or installed from a CD. e.g. a Program

When you have a problem with your computer it is important to establish whether the cause is hardware or software related

Generally if you are able to start your computer and get into the windows screen without the computer stopping, restarting, freezing, or blue screening (crashes) then the problem is most likely software related
If your computer does not start, crashes, freezes, or restarts before you can get in the windows screen then the problem is hardware related

The most common exception to that rule is if your system is severely infected with viruses and in that case you will need to treat those symptoms as a hardware failure although technically it is a software issue. The reason for this is because the software used to identify the hardware component has been corrupted and creates a scenario that deems the hardware as faulty.

(transl: the software gets mixed up and decides your hardware is broken when it might not be)

HINT: to prove if the problem is software related ...

Start the computer in safe mode by continually pressing F8 when the computer first starts showing writing on the monitor,
then select the safe mode option from the start up options provided. This can sometimes stop the computer from installing the corrupted software.
If the computer starts and you are able to get to the windows screen then the problem is probably due to corrupted software for a hardware component.

(do not panic if this seems a bit complex and doesn't work first time it takes practice even for experienced users)

REMEMBER: the majority of software faults including virus removal can be fixed remotely by a competent technician and some can be repaired by you with their assistance.

Hardware faults will generally require the physical presence of a technician, however some faults can be fixed easily by following some simple guides

I have a lot more to say on the subject but let me know what you think so far

I am happy to translate this page into even more simple terms

Warm regards,

Kim-Denyse D.BUS.M.D

http://www.mycomputertutor.net.au/

Skype Made Easy

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 22:52:00 +0000

all I want for christmas is...

It's November and the heat is on. Christmas is looming large and there's planning and logistics as well as the gift buying expeditions ahead...

I am madly making my lists and checking them twice, trying to work out who will be where and when. I have the immediate people sussed. I know how and when I will be catching up with them but what of everyone else I love? I don't know about you but I have extended families spread throughout the state, country, and overseas.

Christmas is a time for joy but I can't help but feel a little sad niggling when planning for my Christmases. A lot of my family are scattered across the country. My lifelong friends and their children live far away. I have travelled far and met so many amazing people and when I go to write my Christmas cards, I feel that it is not quite good enough somehow.

When was the last time I saw them in person? Actually sat down and laughed with them, sharing stories and the traditional Christmas cheer. I agonise over whether I have bought them a gift that they would truly like, or if I have lost the connection with them and they are really wishing I hadn't!

If I had a wish for Christmas it would be that I could clone myself, or be a millionaire so I can just fly off to see them all in person on Christmas day.

The Wish

I wish that this Christmas

I can see them all
I can talk to them all
I can share the experience with those who are with me
AND I CAN DO IT ALL FOR FREE!

THE SCATHINGLY BRILLIANT SOLUTION

Being a nerdette I came up with a technological answer.

Write a Simply Computers Skype Made Easy Step-By-Step Guide, upload it to the web and send the links to everyone!

I have burnt the lessons to CD and I have bought everyone a webcam for Christmas with strict instructions to open them Christmas eve.

I have remote assistance capabilities, so I can help them set it all up if they get stuck (some I inherited the techo genes from and others I didn't).

CAN YOU DO THIS TOO?

SURE! Why not? I will share the love, (just not on Christmas Eve as I will be a little busy).

Order the webcams now [on special click here]
Order your Skype Made Easy Step-By-Step
Guide CD

email me for HELP mycomptutor@gmail.com

ITs easy when you know how
Merry Christmas

MY COMPUTER: TAME THE BEAST!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 09:55:00 +0000

My Computer: TAME THE BEAST!

Rule No.1 Expect the Unexpected

When you first bought your Beast home you were blissfully unaware of the dangers that lay ahead. This marvel of technology (otherwise known as 'Computer') was meant to be the miracle that would change your whole life for the BETTER… Oops!

If you are asking yourself why you even thought of investing money in a mechanical Beast that would take over your life, confuse and confound, cause high levels of stress, cost hours of wasted time and buckets of money; then read on to feel at least that you are not alone and find out what can be done about it.

Take a moment now and remember what your beloved friends, family and the smiling salesman excitedly told you when you asked about having a computer. Oh yes… 'you can email your friends, make your own birthday cards, shop online, do your banking online, trace your family history, no more paperwork, doing your books is a breeze, join Facebook and find long lost school buddies, talk to them across the world for free, read the news and get your daily horoscope every morning, get a new job, your business will double in profits overnight etc etc etc and… its all done with just a couple of clicks of your mouse!'

Rule No. 2: Don't Rely on Others to Protect You

I am here to warn you that the next time you ask a friend, or heaven forbid the kids, how to do something on your beast and they answer you with a sentence that starts with 'its just a…', RUN! This is a moment in your life you will never get back; a moment that will take away what semblance of self respect you had for your own intelligence and ability. This is what The Beast wants.

Cast your mind back (if you still have the strength) to that fateful day when you first had The Beast safely installed on your cosy 'office nook' you lovingly prepared for it to live. Was that the last, 'I am master of my destiny' moment that you have felt since?

Rule No.3: Know Thy Enemy

Take a long look at your particular Beast. Are your stress levels rising? Do you ask yourself am I actually turning it on right? Will I break it if I press the wrong key? Have I inadvertently given it a Virus because I am completely unprotected...or am I? You proudly understand a technological term and that is 'booting' it but no matter how much you want to actually do that, something in the back of your now frizzled brain tells you that's not exactly what they meant. Quietly you reflect on all the stuff you bought and have no idea what to do with it. You bought it because the salesman told you, 'you just HAD TO HAVE IT!' and now you wonder if you will ever really know what it actually was, if it is working and what it actually does!

So you find yourself out there on your own and you decide to take matters in hand and go out to buy the 'manual'. A few chapters in you can't make sense of any of it because they are talking about a 'PC' and you own a Computer! This tactic is quickly abandoned and you now feel dumber than the dummies.

Rule No. 4: If Its Too Good To Be True… It Is

Not to be deterred, you take the plunge into the icy and turbulent waters that is known as 'Surfing the Net'. Again you are at the mercy of ruthless sales people who know you are at all at sea and drowning in a whirlpool of technological language and terminology that you need a degree to understand.

This is their weapon.

For them its easy to throw you a lifeline, a rescue boat and a pair of floaties. You sign your life away to a wonderful plan that is half price for the first 6 months! Fabulous deal! (in amongst the technical jargon of mega gigas and killer somethings!) What happens next is pure luck really.

Its six months later…you have managed to recover from the installation of a myriad of new wires, cords and boxes that blink with little antennas. You have given up trying to remember the 50 passwords and names of the 5 technicians it took to make them work …oh and the huge chunk missing out of your bank account to boot (there's that word again). You may have managed to get onto the internet by now and if luck was on your side, you have an email account (which has yet another password that is illegibly scribbled on a scrap of paper or on the back of your first contract) and BAM out of the blue you receive your internet bill and its astronomical!

Rule No.5: Learn Swahili

Why does the bill never match the agreement? So you ring your internet provider looking futilely for someone called 'Customer Service.' Finally after hours on hold you find that 'Customer Service' does speak English, but not a brand that you understand particularly well. What you do finally understand is that you are locked into a binding contract for 2 yrs at double the price of what you had for the last 6 months and suddenly you wished you had known what a giga-bigga-byte meant.

Now the lights go out in your Beast's beady eyes and you find an IT 'expert' to fix it and tell you what you did wrong. Unfortunately they all speak very fast and have a degree in Swahili (which the kids are now being taught in Kindergarten) and you feel even more inadequate and lost.

Rule No. 6: There is NO Safety in Numbers

It is now time for an Adult Learning computer course. You turn up nervous, feeling like a little kid but excited to learn about taming your Beast once and for all. If you haven't already tried this, I can tell you that you will find yourself amongst 30 other people who are all speed typists. You will be given yet another manual full of confusing black and white text and graphics. You will be told that 'this is a self paced learning course', where is the teacher?! Despondently you will spend hours wading through it to find that one little thing you really needed to know yesterday! No wonder you are so frustrated!

Rule No.7: Form Alliances

How did I know your inner most feelings and experiences? No, I am not psychic I am 'bretheren'. Believe it or not, I have 'been there and done that' for many years…

I began my entrepreneurial career as a small business Marketing Consultant, but soon discovered that small businesses were suffering from lack of computer skills and basic computer knowledge which was hampering their growth, internal efficiency and costing them precious time and money

Over that time I began to write myself Step-By-Step Guides to all the things I taught myself to do, so I could share the knowledge with my beleaguered clients. Then one fateful day my computer crashed, my modem fried and I called in the Swahili speaking technicians to save all my hard work and expensive equipment. In my efforts to understand what was happening they discovered my talent for translation and analogy and so we teamed up to provide people with the full package.

Now Kim-Denyse's Simply Computers Training & Services has become its own business with an ever- growing company of ardent fans (students). These are people just like you, smart intelligent and thoroughly confounded, looking for someone that will speak to them with empathy and understanding, translate the lingo in practical terms (without being patronizing), who want to benefit from my experiences, research back up and support and unique insight into what they need.

Rule No. 8: Choose a Plan of Action

Now you have choices that will suit you…

You can attend the Simply Computer 'Beginners, The Lost and Confounded Courses' (BLC), that are specifically designed to answer all your questions on the essentials you need to operate your computer with confidence. There are only ever 6 students in a class, and the rule is that the laughter is with you, not at you
You can purchase (by download on-line or disc), the My Computer Tutor
'Step-By-Step Guides and Manuals' in full vibrant colour, with screen shots and point form instructions - print only the lessons you need and build your own manual
You also have a choice of having My Computer Tutor Tuition in the comfort of your own home or
Simply Computer On-Site Training in your business, so the lessons are tailor made to suit your needs
Subscribe to the Simply Computers Back Up and Support Network where you will receive Remote Assistance when you are in urgent need, access to up to date information on new technologies, ask any question you like and receive a logical answer within 12 hours, custom designed Step-By-Step Guides, discounts on peripherals and equipment, and a lot more for a very small monthly or yearly fee

Whether you are a home user, business owner, an entrepreneur, a club or an agency, Kim-Denyse's Simply Computer Training & Services will get you back on track and help you to achieve the confidence and freedom when working with your technology that you need to save you precious time, money and frustration.

Before you frisbee your laptop or boot your tower out of the highest window, take a deep breath and contact me.

IT's easy when you know how… I'll show you

Warm regards,

Kim-Denyse D.BUS.M.D

http://www.simplycomputers.com.au/

http://www.mycomputertutor.net.au/

kimdenyse@gmail.com

Reduce Spam

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 20:46:00 +0000

Reduce Email Spam & Protect your Contacts

Everyone wonders how they can reduce the seemingly ever growing list of Spam and Junk Emails they receive each day.

There are a number of things you can do to help stop 'spreading the word'.

One of these is to remove all previous email addresses that appear in a message when you forward it.

The other is to further protect the privacy of your friends and family, and use the Blind Carbon Copy (BCC) when forwarding an email to multiple recipients.

remove existing addresses when Forwarding Emails

It is important to remove all previous email addresses from a message before you forward an email.

If you leave the original message as it is, the email addresses of all previous recipients of the message will be included in the email for all to see.

As the email is continually forwarded with these addresses in plain sight, dozens or even hundreds of addresses will build up. Eventually this list of addresses be collected and used by unscrupulous people to send spam or even worse!

You can help to thwart this problem, and assist in reducing spam, by simply removing previous email addresses before you forward the message.

Removal of these addresses is extremely simple and can be completed in just a few seconds.

Using Blind Carbon Copy (BCC)

If you want to send emails to multiple recipients (lots of friends, family and clients at the same time), it is important to use the BCC (Blind Carbon Copy) facility of your email program.

The BCC facility protects the privacy of your recipients and helps reduce spam.

When you send an email to several people using the normal "To:" or "Cc;" fields, all of their email addresses are clearly displayed in the message.

If the email is forwarded, the email addresses of all previous recipients may also be forwarded, as illustrated in the screenshot below.

Help reduce your spam and protect your contact list by following these simple steps:

Reduce Email Spam & Protect your Contacts

STEP-BY-STEP

HOW?

Just go to www.mycomputertutor.net.au and download your FREE step-by-step guide from the Resources Page

or contact Kim-Denyse directly mycomptutor@gmail.com

That is all there is to it!

Unfortunately, many people do not practice this very simple and quick process, thereby unknowingly contributing to the growing problem of Spam.

Happy Safe Computing!

Miss Kim

My Computer Tutor

What is Google+?

Google+ Profile; Introduce Yourself

Keyboard Shortcuts (Windows)

Keyboard Shortcuts with Free Download

MOST USED

SELECTING TEXT

IS THIS EMAIL FACT OR FICTION?

Is This Email Safe

Email Tracker Programs

*Cookie; a small piece of data sent from a website and stored in your web browser while you are browsing. When the you visit the same website in the future, the data previously stored in the cookie can be retrieved to notify the website of your previous activity

Guilty or Not Guilty?

Petitions

Yes! You Can forward This Message On!

What else can I do if I am not sure?

Personal Folders in Outlook 03, 07 and 10

Creating and Filing Personal Folders in Outlook

Filing Rules in Outlook

Example

FOLDERS WITHIN FOLDERS

Moving Folders - Drag and Drop Method

Emails Within Personal Folders

In Summary

Why Do You Need My Computer Tutor?

Copy and Paste Word 2010

Cut/Copy /Paste

2 WAYS

USING RIGHT CLICK

There is only one skill you need to master to do this lesson...

know how to Select (highlight) using either your mouse or keyboard

HOW TO ...Cut or Copy using the Options Menu (Right Click)

Step 2: Right Click on the Highlighted text or image

Apple Vs. Android Vs. Microsoft: How to Decide

Apple Vs. Android Vs. Microsoft:

How to Decide

iPad or Tablet? iPhone or 'the other ones'?

The Contenders

Data Is Stuff You Create

Who Does and Says What with Whom?

Apple:

Google

Microsoft

The Way of the Future

Least Likely: Apple

Tops: Google

In Between: Microsoft

Stuff to Consider and Helpful Hints

Do you own a Mac or a Windows PC?

2. Do you us Gmail or Google Apps a lot?

3. What brand of phone do you own right now?

4. Back-ups

5. What would you be using your tablet/pad for?

6. Tablet Storage Space

7. Processors

Pros and Cons

Apple

Pros:

Cons:

Android

Cloud Backup

Some Android Alternatives to iPad

Android Alternatives to iPhone

References

The elephant in the room

In Summary

How to Send Attachments with "Windows Live" or "Hotmail" for Absolute B...

How to Reduce Image Size using Windows 7 & Paint

What is a Java Update and is it Safe?

What Is Java?

Why do I need Java?

Is Java free to download?

Why Java Needs Updating

What You Should Do

UPDATE JAVA: Step-by-Step

Note from MCT

I Can't Open an Email Attachment

Dottie King Lion's Club Award

What is Phishing?

Smilebox Playback

Smilebox : Step-By-Step Guide

Creating and Filing Personal Folders in
Outlook