Monday, October 11, 2010

Computer Tutor’s EBook Sale!

Learn something new!  The Computer Tutor is now offering the eBooks used in their best selling computer classes!  Learn about your favorite computer topics including:

  • Windows 7 – Intro to the OS
  • Windows Vista  - Intro to the OS
  • XP – Intro to the OS

and topics such as:

  • Digital Cameras and your Computer
  • Maintaining Your Computer
  • Microsoft Office 2007 software including
    • Word 2007
    • Excel 2007

Additionally, we have some older material that is very helpful to XP users – just drop us a line and we can send these title for FREE via PDF:

    • Maintaining Your Pc 2008
    • Best of the web Freebies 2009
    • You’ve got email!  Basic email intro 2008
    • What can I do with a computer? 2006
    • Word 2003
    • Word 2003 2
    • Excel 2003

New books coming soon… Skype – learn to communicate with your friends and family using a very popular FREE voice over internet software.

All eBooks are $9.99 Each and payments can be made through PayPal, or personal check via snail mail.  EBooks are emailed to your email address so be sure to include this with your personal check request. 

The Computer Tutor specializes in working with senior citizens.  With that in mind each booklet is written in a large typeface.  Instructions include screen shots or pictures to help explain more complicated tasks. 

Email: ComputerTutor321@gmail.com with the subject Ebook – be sure to include the name of the book you would like along with your payment method.

Looking for a special topic?  Please drop us a line with your suggestions!

Simply Seniors Computer Tutor (321)431-3866

www.ComputerTutorHelp.Us

Thursday, September 30, 2010

Be careful installing FREE software


You never know with FREE software and even some paid for software – that is why it is always best to be careful and know what you are downloading and read the screens as they pass by. Today’s blog was first posted through Kim Kamando then through a local group I work with, the Space Coast PC Users Group.  It’s worth passing along to anyone you know with a PC (that may be a little new to this stuff) :-).  Remember when it comes to the Computer Health needs of Brevard’s Senior Citizens –look no further than Computer Tutor!  321-431-3866 and online at www.ComputerTutorHelp.Us

“ Many free software programs install browser toolbars and other programs. These may send your data to a third party. In many cases, they won't add anything to the Web browsing experience.
Programs may also change your file associations. This is a particular concern with media programs. Your files won't automatically open in your preferred program when you double-click them. Of course, you'll also find programs that install shortcuts on the desktop and system tray. Others plant toolbars in your Web browser.
Be sure to read the screens when installing software. I know, it's not fun. Uncheck any options for modifying files, installing add-on toolbars and other options that seem wrong. They probably are.”

Computer Tutor wants to take it a step further and show you the screen shots or commonly missed ‘malware’ or toolbars that come with software we like to download such as AVG FRee, CCleaner, and other great malware cleaning tools (with usefulness comes a price) what did you expect for free?  OF Course they are going to try to slip something by you. 

In this example you will see many different options, such as where the icon should be placed once the program is installed.  Another option is to add the Yahoo tool bar.  Not a necessary feature of the software and may be annoying to the person once it is installed. So watch for these little things. It will save you having to uninstall it in the future.

Here is another commonly downloaded software AVG antivirus:  In this case not only is your IE home page changed a tool bar is also added to the IE screen. 

I use and highly recommend each of the software's shown here but they do come with some attachments that you have to watch out for.   If you pay attention to what you are downloading and watch and read the screens presented to you during the install process you should be able to  take well educated decisions about what your are installing.

I hope you have found this information helpful.  If you have learned something please pass this blog around to your friends. 

Thanks!

Stacey Kile

Computer Tutor of Melbourne Florida 321-431-3866

www.ComputerTutorHelp.Us

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Is it possible to get a virus from surfing the Internet like a regular computer on my smartphone?

 

smasrtI was doing some research on local computer repair shops when I ran across this article by Ken of Data DR.s, a local and national Franchise Computer Repair business, – many of us are now using these Smart Phones and this seems like an excellent question – some of us might have about our phones.  So read on to see if your Smart Phone is as Dumb as our computers?

Answer

Thanks again to Data DR.s for today’s Simply Seniors Computer Tutor blog.  This question was answered on September 17, 2010. Much of the information contained herein may have changed since posting.

The amount of new ‘malware’ (malicious software) that is being written to infect computers that are on the Internet continues to grow at a fever pitch.

Most of the really sophisticated malware is written by organized crime syndicates around the world that have plenty of resources and a really big motivator: your identity.

A recent study shows that if you search for entertainment sites (music, video, games, software, etc.) and include the word ‘free’, your chances of coming across a malicious website goes up exponentially; in some cases 300%!

Additionally popular items like ringtones, wallpaper and screensavers have traditionally been big targets of the malware producers, so be careful what you search for!

When it comes to your question about smartphone vulnerabilities, if you’re referring to the common ‘drive-by download’ attack that silently slips malicious programs into your computer when you visit a rogue website, the answer (for time being) is no.

As of this writing, browser-based attacks on smartphones are generally in the ‘proof of concept’ stage, meaning that researchers are finding theoretical possibilities, but nothing substantial exists in the wild.

There is a new vulnerability that was recently discovered for Adobe’s Flash player, which runs on desktop operating systems like Windows, Mac and Linux, but the latest Android operating system (2.2) has some exposure to this exploit (the first of its kind, since most smartphones can’t run Flash).

At this point in time, it’s actually safer to use your smartphone for accessing web content, especially the fringe content that is highly targeted for desktop computers, but that’s likely to change over time.

With the popularity of smartphones on the rise, worldwide, be assured that this is an area that the malware coders are focusing on for future attacks.

The real concern for smartphone users for now are downloadable applications that can contain malware or silently access private information on your phone (contacts, e-mails, etc.) and upload it to a remote server.

Smartphone makers do their best to police rogue applications in their various app delivery systems, but they have had apps (only a handful of the hundreds of thousands) get into their systems that snuck past the security tests and were later pulled from their app stores.

Those that bypass the controls put in place by smartphone manufacturers (called jailbreaking) so they can override the system and install un-authorized applications will be the ones at greatest risk going forward.

With no orchestrated screening process for those that install apps outside of the system, malware producers will continue to experiment on those willing to take the risk.

Google’s Android platform is both open and gaining a lot of users, so it’s likely we will continue to see more of the malicious activity aimed at this emerging and more accessible group of smartphone users.

One of the side-benefits to only getting applications from the authorized sources is that the vetting process (especially for Apple’s App Store) is pretty rigid and the likelihood of a malicious program getting onto your phone is very low.

As the capabilities of what a smartphone (and now tablets like the iPad) can do increase, so likely will the risks in using those features (the current Flash issue is a good example) so keep your guard up and stay tuned.

Simply Seniors Computer Tutor can help with your Smart Phone questions as well!  Learn how to sync your Smart Phone to your computer.  Call today for more information 321-431-3866.  Servicing senior citizens  technological needs since 2002!

Thanks again to the really smart people over at Data Dr.s who wrote today’s technical tips.  This was originally posted by Ken of Data Doctors on September 17, 2010 on their web site.  

Friday, September 3, 2010

Are You Inviting Criminals Into Your Home?

Cybercrime – has it happened to you? Is it just a matter of time before it happens to each and every one of us?  Today’s article comes from AOL.com. 

Even if you're smart about protecting your identity, there is a new and dangerous digital threat. When you share music or download movies from peer-to-peer file-sharing networks, you could also be virtually unlocking your home to criminals.


Don’t remember granting identity thieves permission to come into your life? While you're busy downloading innocuous files, criminals can be tagging along--swiping everything that's on your computer, from your Social Security number to your health information.
Peer-to-peer (or P2P) file-sharing networks are hugely popular with about 22 million people globally using them every second to swap movies, music, software and documents. The problem? Users of file-sharing networks can unwittingly expose the contents of entire hard drives containing your information to everyone else on the network if the P2P file-sharing application is not configured properly. By simply searching for specific keywords, identity thieves are able to access and download the personal documents of thousands upon thousands of individuals that can include personally identifiable information.


In 2009, "The Today Show" demonstrated the dangers of these networks. They found an astounding 25,800 student loan applications, more than 150,000 tax returns, and nearly 626,000 credit reports--all made easily accessible on file-sharing networks.

While antivirus software is great at protecting your computer from viruses, it doesn't stop thieves from accessing your hard drive if you've given them permission. And if you use peer-to-peer file-sharing networks you may be doing exactly that.


You may think you're safe if you don't share files over the Internet, but think again…


Your doctor, employer or accountant could be doing it--with your personal information. The Federal Trade Commission recently warned nearly 100 organizations, including companies, schools and local governments, that the personal information of their customers and/or employees had been leaked onto online file-sharing networks. The information found included Social Security numbers, health information, and driver's licenses--more than enough information for any identity thief to successfully steal someone's identity.


How can you protect yourself?


A number of programs like TrustedID, LifeLock and Identity Guard help prevent identity theft. LifeLock, for example, not only helps provide credit protection, but also notifies you if your personal information is being used to apply for retail credit or mortgage loans, etc. In addition, it sends updated email alerts of potential identity threats and patrols websites for the illegal selling of your personal information.

For more information on these products follow these links to their web sites. 

If your computer is infected with viruses or you need more one on one information on how to protect YOUR computer – contact Simply Seniors Computer Tutor, Brevard’s PREMIERE Computer Consultant Service exclusively for senior citizens!  Visit www.computertutorhelp.com for helpful links to legitimate FREE software to help clean your computer. 

Be sure to visit us on Facebook and become a FAN!!!

Thursday, September 2, 2010

9 ways to increase the security of your laptop while on the road

Today’s Article is brought to us by Microsoft!  I am a laptop owner and as the prices have dropped so are many more computer users.  If I were to loose my laptop I would loose EVERYTHING!!! I would feel like I had lost a good friend.  All of that information!  Well, ask much as I travel with my laptop I make sure I have a good back up copy of my information which is a good rule of thumb because you never know!  Here  are some more suggestions to keep your laptop safe while traveling.

Using your laptop to get work done away from your office or on the road is becoming widely accepted. But this rapid growth in laptop computing has made portable systems the target for theft around the world. If your laptop computer is stolen, company information can be exposed, as well as your personal and financial information.

Use these 9 tips to learn how you can keep your laptop more secure when you're on the road.

1. Avoid using computer bags

Computer bags can make it obvious that you're carrying a laptop. Instead, try toting your laptop in something more common like a padded briefcase or suitcase.


2. Never leave access numbers or passwords in your carrying case

Keeping your password with your laptop is like keeping the keys in the car. Without your password or important access numbers it will be more difficult for a thief to access your personal and corporate information.


3. Carry your laptop with you

Always take your laptop on the plane or train rather then checking it with your luggage. It's easy to lose luggage and it's just as easy to lose your laptop. If you're traveling by car, keep your laptop out of sight. For example, lock it in the trunk when you're not using it.


4. Encrypt your data

If someone should get your laptop and gain access to your files, encryption can give you another layer of protection. With Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7 you can choose to encrypt files and folders. Then, even if someone gains access to an important file, they can't decrypt it and see your information. Learn more about how to encrypt your data with Windows XP, encrypt your data with Windows Vista, or encrypt your data with Windows 7.


5. Keep your eye on your laptop

When you go through airport security don't lose sight of your bag. Hold your bag until the person in front of you has gone through the metal detector. Many bags look alike and yours can easily be lost in the shuffle.


6. Avoid setting your laptop on the floor

Putting your laptop on the floor is an easy way to forget or lose track of it. If you have to set it down, try to place it between your feet or against your leg (so you're always aware it's there).


7. Buy a laptop security device

If you need to leave your laptop in a room or at your desk, use a laptop security cable to securely attach it to a heavy chair, table, or desk. The cable makes it more difficult for someone to take your laptop. There are also programs that will report the location of a stolen laptop. They work when the laptop connects to the Internet, and can report the laptop's exact physical location. One such tracing program is ComputracePlus.


8. Use a screen guard

These guards help prevent people from peeking over your shoulder as you work on sensitive information in a public place. This is especially helpful when you're traveling or need to work in a crowded area. This screen guard from Secure-It is just one example of a screen guard you could use.


9. Try not to leave your laptop in your hotel room or with the front desk

Too many things have been lost in hotel rooms and may not be completely secure. If you must leave your laptop in your room, put the "do not disturb" sign on the door.



What to do if your laptop is stolen

  • Change your network password to help secure access to corporate servers.

  • Report the theft to local authorities (police, etc.) and to your company's IT department.

  • If customer data was on the laptop, contact your account representative, legal representative, or appropriate person at your company so they can take the appropriate actions.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Clean your computer

“I have a dirty secret. I've never cleaned my computer. Sure, I've dusted my monitor, but I haven't taken off the cover or tried to reach the crumbs lurking inside my keyboard.”

Our friends at Microsoft bring us today’s blog – as a computer technician I have seen some GROSS computers.  We have had them with roaches inside, spider webs, heavy dust and smokers computers are the worst because they become sticky and the dust the is very hard to remove from fans and cooling vents.  Take a look at your laptop right now, gross isn’t it? 

clean your computer

"Your computer could fry if you don't keep it clean," says Jonathon Millman, chief technology officer for Hooplah Interactive.

Dust clogs the vents behind your computer, which causes your CPU to heat up—and heat is the biggest cause of component failure in computers. Regular cleaning could save you costly maintenance fees down the road.

Keep your computer in tip-top shape by following Millman's guide to a spotless computer system.

Note about malicious software

Trying to clean up your computer in the antivirus software sense? This guide on the Microsoft Security website provides instructions, a free safety scan, and a malicious software removal tool you can download.


Preparation

You'll need:

  • screwdriver

  • can of compressed air (available from computer dealers or office-supply stores)

  • cotton swabs (do not use a cotton ball)

  • rubbing alcohol

  • paper towels or anti-static cloths

  • water

Always turn your computer off before you begin and unplug all the cords.


Step 1: Inside the case

Using a screwdriver, remove the side of the case that's opposite your motherboard. Touch as little as possible inside the computer, keeping fingers away from cards and cords.

Blow air around all of the components and along the bottom of the case, keeping the nozzle four inches away from the machine. Blow air into the power supply box and into the fan (from the back of the case). Lastly, blow air into the floppy disk and CD drives. Wipe the inside of the cover with a lightly moistened cloth before replacing it.

Millman recommends doing this every three months if your case sits on the floor, if you have pets that shed, or if you smoke. Otherwise, every six to eight months is fine.


Step 2: Outside the case

Run a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol around all of the openings on the back of your case. Give them one swipe with the damp end of the swab and one swipe with the dry end. Do this as often as you clean the inside of your computer.


Step 3: Keyboard

Turn the keyboard upside down and gently shake it. Most of the crumbs and dust will fall out. Take a can of compressed air and blow into and around the keys. Next, take a cotton swab and dip it in rubbing alcohol. It should be damp, but not wet. Run the cotton swab around the outside of the keys. Rub the tops of the keys. If you have a laptop, follow the same procedure but take extra care with your machine. Do this monthly.

Spills — If you have kids, you're worried about spills. If it happens, immediately turn off your computer, disconnect the keyboard, and flip it over. While the keyboard is upside down, blot the top with a paper towel, blow compressed air between the keys and leave it to air dry overnight. For laptops, liquid can easily penetrate the hard drive so turn the computer over immediately and and then leave it to air dry overnight.

Laptop spills need more attention because liquid can easily penetrate the keyboard and damage internal parts. For laptop spills, immediately turn off the computer and remove any external power source and other items plugged into it. Turn the laptop over, remove the battery, and then bring it to your nearest repair center to check for internal damage. Simply blowing compressed air into the keyboard and letting your computer air dry upside down overnight aren't enough because liquids can sit inside a laptop for days.

For all spills, be aware that anything other than plain water may cause severe damage, and never attempt to dry a keyboard or laptop in a microwave or conventional oven.


Step 4: Mouse

Rub the top and bottom of your mouse with a paper towel dipped in rubbing alcohol. Open the back and remove the ball. Wash the ball with water and let it air dry. To clean inside the mouse, dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and rub all of the components. Scrape hard-to-remove grime with your fingernail. Finally, blow air into the opening. Replace the ball and the cover. Do this monthly.


Step 5: Monitor

Moisten a paper towel or a soft, lint-free cloth with water. (You can also buy monitor cleaning products at computer-supply stores.) Don't spray liquid directly onto the screen—spray the cloth instead. Wipe the screen gently to remove dust and fingerprints. Never touch the back of the monitor.

For laptop screens, Millman suggests buying a special cleaning solution available at computer stores. Do this weekly.

Finally, make sure that everything is dry before you plug your computer back in.


Article written by Alyson Munroe and adapted from an original piece from Microsoft Home Magazine.

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Keeping up with the Blog

As you can see I did go for a few months without posting.  I am wondering if the Blog is worth my time. Of course what I need to prove that it is worth the time I spend, is followers and then ultimately I need to produce income from these followers.  Hmm but how to do that? 

Computer Tutor is always looking to grow and expand.  If you can make suggestions that will help us better aid senior citizens and their computer needs please write.

At this time we offer an array of services from purchasing the computer and setting the PC up in the clients home, to sitting and training someone new one on one.  You can see a complete listing on our web site at www.sscomputertutor.com 

If you know a senior citizen that needs computer help in central FL contact Simply Seniors Computer Tutor!

cg3

321-431-3866

Great Microsoft Excel – Website

I thought I would pass this along to anyone looking for help with Microsoft Excel.  There is something tor every level of users here – from how to create formulas to in-depth explanations about macros and Hot-to’s.

http://www.bettersolutions.com/excel.aspx

The web site also offers help on Word and Power Point.  I believe it does have current versions including Office 2007 instructions for some topics.

Need a Tutor in home, in person?  Contact “Simply Senior’s Computer Tutors”  specializing in the needs of senior citizens and their technology.  On the web at www.sscomputertutor.com – visit us on Facebook!

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Save time with quick computer shortcuts

 

"When I have the chance to sit down at my computer, I need to get at what I'm working on as quickly as possible.”

Save time with quick computer shortcuts

Over the years I have learned a set of keystrokes that are short cuts to commonly used features such as cut, copy, paste and print.  These short cuts save seconds but it’s well worth it when you want to get your computer work done and move on.   Working with people from different computer background I see the more seasoned computer user usually using the keyboard short cuts and we are going to discuss today.  I have always assumed that it because in the late 1980’s and 1990’s there were no mice to interact with and keyboard short cuts was just the way things were done. 

The following information on keyboard short cuts is brought to us by Microsoft.   I do have to ward you I did try some of these short cuts and did not see the results promised.  The short cuts do not appear to be OS specific – meaning they should work for you if you are using XP, Vista or Windows 7!

If you're looking to work more efficiently in Microsoft Word, Excel, or Internet Explorer, the key is using programmed shortcuts.

Driving around your desktop

To...

Use this shortcut

Select a file/folder/icon

Type the first letter of the file. If you have several files starting with the same letter, continue hitting the letter key until your cursor lands on the file or folder you want.

Search for a file/folder

F3

Rename a file/folder

Select the file/folder, click F2, and then re-type the name

Find out when the file or folder was created, by whom, and how big it is

Select the file, right-click, and then click Properties

Display the Start menu

Ctrl + Esc

Create a shortcut on your desktop to your favorite file/folder

Drag the file/folder icon to your desktop

Scroll between open items

Alt + Tab, then hold down Alt while clicking Tab to reach the desired file or program


Working with Word

To...

Use this shortcut

Select text

Shift + Right Arrow, Left Arrow, Up Arrow, or Down Arrow to highlight text

Copy selected text

Ctrl + C

Cut selected text

Ctrl + X

Paste selected text

Ctrl + V

Undo your last action

Ctrl + Z

Select all the text within your document

Ctrl + A

Bold text

Ctrl + B

Italicize text

Ctrl + I

Underline

Ctrl + U

Decrease font size

Ctrl + Shift + <

Increase font size

Ctrl + Shift + >

Change font

Ctrl + Shift + F, then use the arrow keys to reach the new font

Change font size

Ctrl + Shift + P, then use the arrow keys to reach the new font size

Create page break

Ctrl + Enter

Create new document

Ctrl + N

Open My Documents window

Ctrl + O

Close a document

Ctrl + W

Save a document

Ctrl + S

Print a document

Ctrl + P

Preview what you're about to print

Alt + Ctrl + I


Accelerating Excel

To...

Use this shortcut

Move right to left, cell by cell

Tab

Move up and down, cell by cell

Enter

Erase data in current cell

Backspace

Return to the beginning of the row

Home

Enter the date

Ctrl + ; (semicolon)

Enter the time

Ctrl + Shift + : (colon)

Start a formula

= (equal sign)

Check the spelling of titles or words within the cells

F7

Find out about the style within the cell

ALT + ' (apostrophe)

Display the Format Cells dialog box

Ctrl + 1

Apply the general number format

Ctrl + Shift + ~

Turn numbers into dollars

Ctrl + Shift + $

Make numbers a percentage

Ctrl + Shift + %

Apply a border

Ctrl + Shift + &


Expediting Internet Explorer

To...

Use this shortcut

Add sites to your Favorites

  • Go to the site.

  • Hit Ctrl + D to add to your Favorites.

  • Select Favorites and then Add to Favorites to create a separate folder for the site or to add it to a list already formed.

Select a home page

  • Go to the Web page that you would like to make your home page.

  • Open the Tools menu and select Internet Options.

  • Under Home page, click Use Current.

Use the History function if you visit a few select sites constantly

  • Select the History button on your top navigation (a green arrow on a clock face).

  • Select the site that you would like and double-click.

  • If the History button is not visible, go to the View menu, select Explorer Bar, and then click History to access.

Customize your toolbar to the tools you use most frequently

  • Right-click your top navigation.

  • Select the icons that you use or go to the View menu, select Toolbars, and then click Customize.

A final piece of advice from Brown: Have the Help Line numbers for all the products you use nearby. "At work you rely on your IT person to solve problems that come up, but at home you need to fix these on your own and those phone numbers become extremely useful," she says.

The more you use these tools, the more time you will save. Have fun and explore the options available to you.

Thank you so much for reading and if making those short cuts yourself sounds too complicated the Tutor’s at Simply Seniors Computer Tutor will be glad to help you. 

If you like our Blog please tell your friends!  And tell their friends!!! 

You can visit our web site at www.sscomputertutor.com – A qualified Tutor is always standing by to answer your questions at 321-431-3866 in Melbourne, Florida. 

Monday, May 17, 2010

Create an online photo album

Today’s Blog is all about Microsoft Live Photos – a Windows Live account is required to use this software or application.

Want to learn how to have more fun with your photos?  This article from Microsoft offers you one of many different ways you can create an online photo album to share with friends and family world wide!

If you don't have your own Windows Live account, go to http://windowslive.com and sign up today! It's free, it's easy, and it’s one convenient place online to share photos, files, e-mail, and see what’s new with your social network.

Because Windows Live Photos makes it so easy to upload, edit, store, and share photos, one of the first tasks most of us do is create a photo album of our favorite images. Some people create photo blogs that are more about images than text and upload photos from all over—posting the latest images from cell phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), webcams, and scanners and showing the world what's happening in their lives. 

Create an online photo album

What makes a good photo album? The answer is, just about anything—any topic, person, place, or event that you want to share. You might create a photo album to show the 10 finest photos from your best friend's wedding shower. Or you might create a photo album about the weekend you took your son to camp. Or you might simply have one photo album for each of your best friends, or your pets. Whatever the topic of the album, the idea is to group photos in such a way that the folks viewing them will understand how they're connected. You might even simply do a "day-in-the-life" photo album that shows images you captured throughout a single day.

You can stitch photos together, remove red-eye, crop, and tag photos on your PC with Windows Live Photo Gallery, then upload your albums to your Windows Live Photos page to share online with others. You can also add your favorite photos on your profile so your “What’s New” feed updates to keep friends and family up to date on your latest adventures.

When you're ready to create a photo album, follow these steps:

  1. Go to http://photos.live.com.

  2. Click Create an album.

  3. In the Name box, type the name of your album.

  4. In the Share box, set permissions for those you would like to see your album. You can make your albums public so everyone can see them, share them just with the friends in your Windows Live network, select specific people, or keep them just for yourself.

  5. Click Next.

  6. There are several ways to create your photo album.

    Click Select Photos from My Computer to browse for a picture anywhere on your computer.
    -Or-

    Click Add from an Existing Album to add photos from an album you've already created and uploaded.
    -Or-

    Drag a picture from anyplace on your computer into the Drop photos here box. As soon as you add a photo, the name of the box disappears. To add another photo, drag it to the Drop More Photos here and upload when you're done box. The photo will move to the Drop photos here box

    Example of the Add Photos page. Add Picture box.

    When you've added your pictures, select the photos you want to Upload, and that's it! Your album is ready to share.

    You and those you've given permissions can choose to view your album as a slideshow or thumbnails.

    Example of a photo album with pictures displayed in the thumbnail view.

    Show your pictures in a thumbnail view.

    Example of a slide in a slideshow.

    Display your album as a slideshow.

    When you’re done, you can use the Options menu in the upper right to add themes, publish your album in an e-mail, and more.

    That's it! Now you can invite everyone you know to come see all your favorite photos. Have fun!

Author: Katherine Murray and Mike Torres

Thank you to our authors and their had work and research.

remember our “Computer Tutors” are here to help with your computer problems.  In Melbourne, FL call 321-431-3866 – check us out on the web at www.sscomputertutor.com or become our friend on Facebook! 

Happy Computing!

Visualize it–5 ways to make your PC easier to see

Thank you to http://www.microsoft.com/athome/setup/magnify.aspx for this informative article on improving your computer experience.  Do you find yourself fighting the urge to press your nose against the screen because you can't see text and images clearly?

Maybe you were born finding it hard to see up close, maybe you're just finding it difficult now, or—and, sigh, it's true―as you rack up birthdays, sooner or later you're going to experience some changes in your vision. But changes in your eyesight don’t have to interfere with your ability to see things on your computer.

clip_image001

Make your text larger

No, the text is not getting smaller. But you can make the text and other items―your icons, folders, and mouse pointer―larger. How? By increasing the dots per inch (DPI) scale. If you need to make everything fit on the screen, you can decrease the size of the text, and then use the Magnifier to see the text as you type.

For Windows 7 Users:

Make the text on your screen larger or smaller

You can make the text and other items, such as icons, on your screen easier to see by making them larger. You can do this without changing the screen resolution of your monitor or laptop screen. This allows you to increase or decrease the size of text and other items on your screen while keeping your monitor or laptop set to its optimal resolution.

Watch this video to learn how to make the text on your screen larger or smaller (1:37)

Click to watch the video

Click to watch the video

Download and install Windows Media Player Plugin

To make the text on your screen larger or smaller
  1. Open Screen Resolution by clicking the Start button Picture of the Start button, clicking Control Panel, and then, under Appearance and Personalization, clicking Adjust screen resolution.

  2. Choose one of the following:

    • Smaller - 100% (default). This keeps text and other items at normal size.

    • Medium - 125%. This sets text and other items to 125% of normal size.

    • Larger - 150%. This sets text and other items to 150% of normal size. This option appears only if your monitor supports a resolution of at least 1200 x 900 pixels.

  3. Click Apply.

    To see the change, close all of your programs and then log off of Windows. This change will take effect the next time you log on.

You can also make text appear larger or smaller by changing your screen resolution, but if you're using an LCD monitor or laptop, we recommend that you set your screen to its native resolution to avoid blurry text. This is the optimal resolution an LCD monitor or laptop screen was designed to display based on its size. For more information, see Change your screen resolution.

Picture of Display in Control PanelDisplay lets you change the size of text and other items on your screen without changing your screen resolution.

for Vista Users:

Change screen resolution

Screen resolution refers to the clarity of the text and images on your screen. At higher resolutions, items appear sharper. They also appear smaller, so more items fit on the screen. At lower resolutions, fewer items fit on the screen, but they are larger and easier to see. At very low resolutions, however, images might have jagged edges.

For example, 640 × 480 is a lower screen resolution, and 1600 × 1200 is a higher one. CRT monitors generally display a resolution of 800 × 600 or 1024 × 768. LCD monitors can better support the higher resolutions. Whether you can increase your screen resolution depends on the size and capability of your monitor and the type of video card you have.

Picture of the desktop at a high screen resolutionText and images are sharper and smaller at high screen resolutions

Picture of the desktop at a low screen resolutionText is larger and easier to read at low screen resolutions, but images are blocky and fewer items fit on the screen

  1. Open Display Settings by clicking the Start button Picture of the Start button, clicking Control Panel, clicking Appearance and Personalization, clicking Personalization, and then clicking Display Settings.

  2. Under Resolution, move the slider to the resolution you want, and then click Apply.

Notes

Notes
  • When you change the screen resolution, it affects all users who log on to the computer.

  • When you set your monitor to a screen resolution that it won't support, the screen will go black for a few seconds while the monitor reverts back to the original resolution

Increase the size of your icons

You can also quickly make just the icons on your desktop larger and easier to see.

  • Right-click the desktop, point to View, and then click Large Icons, Medium Icons, or Classic Icons. (Classic icons are the smallest size.) .

You can also use the scroll wheel on your mouse to change the size of your desktop icons.

  • On the desktop, press and hold CTRL while you scroll by using the wheel to change the icon size.

Learn more about how to show, hide, or resize icons.


Use the Magnifier

You may have been using Windows for years and not realized there is a built in Magnifier that enlarges part of the screen. You can adjust the Magnifier to zoom in at various levels and focus wherever you want to focus on the screen.

Windows 7 Users:

Make items on the screen appear bigger (Magnifier)

Magnifier enlarges different parts of the screen. This is especially useful for viewing objects that are difficult to see, but also for seeing the whole screen more easily.

There are three modes:

  • Full-screen mode. In full-screen mode, your entire screen is magnified. You can then have Magnifier follow the mouse pointer.

  • Lens mode. In lens mode, the area around the mouse pointer is magnified. When you move the mouse pointer, the area of the screen that's magnified moves along with it.

  • Docked mode. In docked mode, only a portion of the screen is magnified, leaving the rest of your desktop in a normal state. You can then control which area of the screen is magnified.

Note

Note

Full-screen mode and lens mode are only available as part of the Aero experience. If your computer doesn't support Aero, or if you're using a theme other than an Aero theme, Magnifier will only work in docked mode.

Watch this video to learn how to make items on the screen appear bigger (1:56)

Click to watch the video

Click to watch the video

Download and install Windows Media Player Plugin

To make items on the screen appear bigger
  1. Open Magnifier by clicking the Start button Picture of the Start button, clicking All Programs, clicking Accessories, clicking Ease of Access, and then clicking Magnifier.

  2. On the Views menu, click the mode that you want to use.

  3. Move the pointer to the part of the screen that you want to magnify.

Notes

Notes
  • To exit Magnifier, press the Windows logo key Picture of Windows logo key+Esc.

  • When you're using full-screen mode, you can quickly preview your entire desktop by clicking the Views menu, and then clicking Preview full screen.

  • For a list of keyboard shortcuts that you can use with Magnifier, see Keyboard shortcuts.

Vista Users: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/Make-items-on-the-screen-appear-bigger-Magnifier

Visualize it–5 ways to make your PC
easier to see

Do you find yourself fighting the urge to press your nose against the screen because you can't see text and images clearly?

Maybe you were born finding it hard to see up close, maybe you're just finding it difficult now, or—and, sigh, it's true―as you rack up birthdays, sooner or later you're going to experience some changes in your vision. But changes in your eyesight don’t have to interfere with your ability to see things on your computer.

A screen too far

Make your text larger

No, the text is not getting smaller. But you can make the text and other items―your icons, folders, and mouse pointer―larger. How? By increasing the dots per inch (DPI) scale. If you need to make everything fit on the screen, you can decrease the size of the text, and then use the Magnifier to see the text as you type.

Windows 7

Windows Vista


Increase the size of your icons

You can also quickly make just the icons on your desktop larger and easier to see.

  • Right-click the desktop, point to View, and then click Large Icons, Medium Icons, or Classic Icons. (Classic icons are the smallest size.) .

You can also use the scroll wheel on your mouse to change the size of your desktop icons.

  • On the desktop, press and hold CTRL while you scroll by using the wheel to change the icon size.

Learn more about how to show, hide, or resize icons.


Use the Magnifier

You may have been using Windows for years and not realized there is a built in Magnifier that enlarges part of the screen. You can adjust the Magnifier to zoom in at various levels and focus wherever you want to focus on the screen.

Windows 7

Windows Vista

Magnifier in Windows 7 includes full-screen and lens modes. Full-screen mode lets you magnify your entire screen and follow your mouse pointer. In lens mode, the area around the mouse pointer is magnified. When you move the mouse pointer, the area of the screen that is magnified moves along with it.


Enlarge your mouse pointer

You can change the look of your mouse cursor so it is easier for you to quickly and easily see on-screen. Try selecting a new pointer style, and also try changing the color and size of your mouse pointer.

Windows 7

  • Click the Start button , click Control Panel, and then under Hardware and Sound, click Mouse.

  • Click the Pointers tab, and then do one of the following:

    • To change the look of all of your pointers, in the Scheme list, click a new mouse pointer scheme.

    • To change an individual pointer, in the Customize list, click the pointer you want to change, click Browse, click a pointer, and then click Open.

More ways to change your mouse settings.

Windows Vista

  • Click the Start button , click Control Panel, and then under Hardware and Sound, click Mouse.

  • Click the Pointers tab, and then do one of the following:

    • To change the look of all of your pointers, in the Scheme list, click a new mouse pointer scheme.

    • To change an individual pointer, in the Customize list, click the pointer you want to change, click Browse, click a pointer, and then click Open.

More ways to change your mouse settings.


Improve your screen resolution

Screen resolution refers to the clarity of the text and images on your screen. At higher resolutions, items appear sharper, but they also appear smaller, so more items fit on the screen. At lower resolutions, fewer items fit on the screen, but they are larger and easier to see. Choose a screen resolution that is better for your eyes.

Change your screen resolution

Screen resolution refers to the clarity of the text and images displayed on your screen. At higher resolutions, such as 1600 x 1200 pixels, items appear sharper. They also appear smaller so more items can fit on the screen. At lower resolutions, such as 800 x 600 pixels, fewer items fit on the screen, but they appear larger.

The resolution you can use depends on the resolutions your monitor supports. CRT monitors generally display a resolution of 800 × 600 or 1024 × 768 pixels and can work well at different resolutions. LCD monitors, also called flat-panel displays, and laptop screens often support higher resolutions and work best at a specific resolution.

The larger the monitor, usually the higher the resolution it supports. Whether you can increase your screen resolution depends on the size and capability of your monitor and the type of video card you have.

Picture of the desktop at a high screen resolutionText and images are sharper but smaller at higher screen resolutions.

Picture of the desktop at a low screen resolutionText and images are larger but often less sharp at lower screen resolutions.

Watch this video to learn how to change your screen resolution (1:10)

Click to watch the video

Click to watch the video

Download and install Windows Media Player Plugin

To change your screen resolution
  1. Open Screen Resolution by clicking the Start button Picture of the Start button, clicking Control Panel, and then, under Appearance and Personalization, clicking Adjust screen resolution.

  2. Click the drop-down list next to Resolution, move the slider to the resolution you want, and then click Apply.

  3. Click Keep to use the new resolution, or click Revert to go back to the previous resolution.

Picture of resolution options in Screen ResolutionScreen Resolution in Control Panel shows the recommended resolution for your monitor.

Native resolution

LCD monitors, including laptop screens, typically run best at their native resolution. You don't have to set your monitor to run at this resolution, but it's usually recommended in order to ensure you see the sharpest text and images possible. LCD monitors generally come in two shapes: a standard proportion of width to height of 4:3, or a widescreen ratio of 16:9 or 16:10. A widescreen monitor has both a wider shape and resolution than a standard ratio monitor.

If you're unsure of your monitor's native resolution, check the product manual or go to the manufacturer's website. Here are typical resolutions for some popular screen sizes:

  • 19-inch screen (standard ratio): 1280 x 1024 pixels

  • 20-inch screen (standard ratio): 1600 x 1200 pixels

  • 22-inch screen (widescreen): 1680 x 1050 pixels

  • 24-inch screen (widescreen): 1900 x 1200 pixels

For more information, see Getting the best display on your monitor.

Notes

Notes
  • When you change the screen resolution, it affects all users who log on to the computer.

  • When you set your monitor to a screen resolution that it won't support, the screen will go black for a few seconds while the monitor reverts back to the original resolution.

Vista Users:

Change screen resolution

Screen resolution refers to the clarity of the text and images on your screen. At higher resolutions, items appear sharper. They also appear smaller, so more items fit on the screen. At lower resolutions, fewer items fit on the screen, but they are larger and easier to see. At very low resolutions, however, images might have jagged edges.

For example, 640 × 480 is a lower screen resolution, and 1600 × 1200 is a higher one. CRT monitors generally display a resolution of 800 × 600 or 1024 × 768. LCD monitors can better support the higher resolutions. Whether you can increase your screen resolution depends on the size and capability of your monitor and the type of video card you have.

Picture of the desktop at a high screen resolutionText and images are sharper and smaller at high screen resolutions

Picture of the desktop at a low screen resolutionText is larger and easier to read at low screen resolutions, but images are blocky and fewer items fit on the screen

  1. Open Display Settings by clicking the Start button Picture of the Start button, clicking Control Panel, clicking Appearance and Personalization, clicking Personalization, and then clicking Display Settings.

  2. Under Resolution, move the slider to the resolution you want, and then click Apply.

Notes

Notes
  • When you change the screen resolution, it affects all users who log on to the computer.

  • When you set your monitor to a screen resolution that it won't support, the screen will go black for a few seconds while the monitor reverts back to the original resolution

If you are lost or need help please contact our tutors for more information.

Thanks for reading!

Happy Computing!

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