16 -
Computer Basics
C
OMPUTER
B
ASICS
S
AFETY
AND
C
OMFORT
Safety Precautions
Please follow the guidelines below to use your computer comfortably
and to avoid health problems.
Computer Environment
Make sure that the computer:
✓
is away from direct sunlight and sources of heat;
✓
is away from magnetic fields or any device generating static elec-
tricity;
✓
is kept at least 30 centimetres away from a mobile phone;
✓
is not in a dusty or damp environment;
✓
is not placed on a carpet or any other surface that may have an
electrical charge.
Cables
Make sure that:
✓
cables are not strained and that there is no risk of people walking
or tripping over them;
✓
other devices do not crush the cables;
✓
power cords are connected to a grounded electrical outlet;
✓
the power outlet is easily accessible and as close to the computer
as possible (do not overload it with too many adapters).
Cleaning your Computer
✓
Always unplug your computer from the power outlet before
cleaning it (and remove the battery if you are using a notebook);
✓
do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, use a damp cloth instead;
✓
never spray cleaning product directly on the screen;
✓
if dust has accumulated inside your computer, do not use a vac-
uum cleaner to remove it;
✓
if you spill liquid on your computer or any device attached to it,
switch it off immediately, unplug the power cord (and remove
the battery if you are using a notebook) and make sure it is com-
pletely dry before switching it on again. Wait overnight if neces-
sary.
Health Precautions
If you work or play for hours at a time, then make sure you take
regular breaks. Look away from the computer's screen once in a
while. Do not use your computer if you are tired.
✓
If the “warmth” symbol is present on the underside of
the computer, this indicates that the underside surface
can become hot. Avoid continuous body contact and do
not place the computer on your lap while it is operating.
✓
Some disorders of the hands, wrists, arms, neck, shoulders, legs
and back may be associated with, or aggravated by certain repeti-
tive actions. To reduce your risk of developing these disorders,
type with your wrists straight and your hands and wrists floating
above the keyboard. If you experience periods of pain, tingling,
numbness or other discomfort, please contact your doctor.
✓
We advise that parents monitor the use of games by their chil-
dren. If you or your child experience any of the following symp-
toms: dizziness, blurred vision, eye or muscle twitches, loss of
consciousness, disorientation, any involuntary movement or con-
vulsion, IMMEDIATELY discontinue use and consult your doctor.
This may happen even if the person has no medical history of epi-
lepsy.
G
ETTING
TO
K
NOW
YOUR
C
OMPUTER
Your Computer’s Drives
The drives described below are commonly used on Packard Bell
computers. However, this does not mean that they are present on the
computer you have purchased, nor that it is limited to these drives.
Memory Card Reader
Memory cards are used in a wide selection
of digital cameras, PDAs, MP3 players and
mobile phones. Selected computers
include an “all-in-one” memory card
reader that allows you read and write the
most common types, such as MMC (Multi
Media Card™), CF (Compact Flash®),
IBM Microdrive™, SM (Smart Media™),
SD (Secure Digital)™, or MS (Memory
Stick®).
Formatting a Card
Before using a card for the first time, it should be formatted.
1. Insert your card in the corresponding slot and click on Start >
My Computer.
2. Right-click on the card icon and select Format.
3. Click on Start in the format window and then click on OK.
Removing a card from an External Card Reader
1. Click on the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the Notification
Area (next to the clock).
2. Click on Safely remove USB Mass Storage Device.
3. Wait until a
Safe to Remove Hardware
message is displayed.
4. Remove the card.
Optical Drives
Most computers are equipped with a DVD drive. A DVD drive can
read audio CDs, CDs containing data (files and programs), Video
CDs and recordable CDs, plus DVDs, DVD movies and most
recordable DVDs.
CD and DVD Types
If your computer is equipped with a CD or a CD-writer drive, then
you will only be able to play CD-type discs.
If your computer is equipped with a CD or DVD-writer, you can
use this device to duplicate your CDs, create your own music
compilations, digital photo albums or keep a safe copy of your
valuable data.
To use your computer comfortably, remember the
following:
✓
Sit up straight with your back relaxed
✓
Adjustable chair
✓
Feet flat on floor or on footrest
✓
Desk height 60-70 cm from the floor
✓
Free space around the computer and devices to
allow proper ventilation
✓
Top of monitor at eye level
✓
Eye distance 45-70 cm from screen
✓
Easy access to drives and controls
