Windows 7 basics

Learning Windows 7

a Tutorial

What’s New with 7?

2. Open Applications1. Docked Applications

3. Gadgets

4. Notification Area

5. Aero Peek Button

1. Docked Applications: To add an application to the Taskbar, find the icon for that application and right-click. From the menu, choose Pin to Taskbar.

2 Open Applications: To open a new window in an open application, right-click on the icon to display its option menu

3. Gadgets: Are simple programs to help make life easier. Calendars, weather reports, and clocks are just some examples.

4. Notification Area: Holds icons for essential Windows operations. The typical operations are still here from older Windows versions.

5. Aero Peek Button: Minimizes all windows to reveal your desktop. Hover over the Aero Peek to get a look at your desktop or click on it to actually minimize all windows.

The Start Menu

Windows utilities and folders

Frequently used applications

Recently installed applications

Search for a program name if you don’t see it immediately

New Windows FeaturesTo maximize a window, click and drag its title bar up to the top of your screen. It will automatically fill the screen.

To return a window to its original orientation, click and drag its title bar down on the screen. It will automatically resize.

To snap a window to the left side of your screen, click and drag the title until your cursor touches the left side of your screen.

To snap a window to the right side of your screen, click and drag the title until your cursor touches the right side of your screen.

NOTE: Double click on your window’t title bar to alternate between maximizing and it original orientation.

The Computer Explorer

The Computer Explorer is located in the Taskbar

Navigation Pane: Gain quick access to areas of your computer from here.

Clicking on an icon provides details about its contents.

Working with Files & Folders

Navigation Pane

Folders

Display file preview paneChange the view of files in this folderNavigate back and forward in your folders viewed

Tip: Right click anywhere in the window to sort its contents. Depending upon the types of files in this folder, your sorting options will change.

Tip: To rename a file or folder, choose rename from the Organize menu or right click on the file and choose rename from the pop-up menu.

Working with LibrariesLibraries are Windows new way to manage your files. The default Libraries are found in the Navigation Pane of a Windows Explorer window. Click the Library icon to view its contents. The files belonging to this Library might be scattered all over your computer, but they will be displayed in this Library window.

Click here to create a new LibraryUse Libraries to organize projects that contain files from different folders scattered about your hard drive.

Libraries are Windows new way to manage your files. The default Libraries are found in the Navigation Pane of a Windows Explorer window. Click the Library icon to view its contents. The files belonging to this Library might be scattered all over your computer, but they will be displayed in this Library window.

Tip: To add content to your new Library folder click Include a Folder. Navigate to the folder you would like to include and click Include Folder. Continue this process until you have all the folders you need displayed in this Library.

Personalizing Your Computer

Right click on your desktop and choose Personalize

Here you can choose from a variety of themes and window colors, as well as

sounds to make your computer look and sound unique. This is also where you

would set your screensaver.

NOTE: If you don’t like the new transparency look of Windows, you can turn this option off by clicking on Window Color and deselecting Enable Transparency.

Battery MaintenanceIf you have a new battery (A new laptop) it comes in a discharged condition and must be charged before use. Upon initial use (or after prolonged storage period) the battery may require two to three charge/discharge cycles before achieving maximum capacity.

•Do not leave your battery dormant for long periods of time. It's recommended you use the battery at least once every two to three weeks. If a battery has not been used for a long period of time, perform the new battery procedure described at above point.

•If the battery is not going to be used for more than a month, it is recommended that it be removed from the device and stored in a cool, dry, clean place.It is normal for a battery to become warm during charging and discharging.A charged battery will eventually lose its charge if unused. It may therefore be necessary to recharge the battery after a storage period.

•Do not short-circuit a battery. A short-circuit may cause damage to the battery. Do not drop, hit or otherwise abuse the battery as this may result in the exposure of the cell contents, which are corrosive. Do not expose the battery to moisture or rain. Keep battery away from fire or other sources of extreme heat. Do not incinerate. Exposure of batteries to extreme heat may result in an explosion.

•Keep Your Batteries Clean, it’s a good idea to clean dirty battery contacts with a cotton swab and alcohol. This helps maintain a good connection between the battery and your laptop.

NOTE: It is possible for batteries to stagnate.  If they are left continually plugged in, they will eventually cease to want to take or hold a charge.  They should be cycled periodically.

NOTE: batteries have a limited number of charge and discharge cycles.  There is no guaranteed set number, but once the limit is reached, they're done. A charge/discharge cycle is any time the battery loses charge and is replenished.  No matter whether it is completely drained or not.