Don't

Computer on/off button


Turning off the computer by holding down the on/off button can be damaging. If the computer appears to be off first be sure it IS off. Be sure it's not just the monitor that's off (You can push the monitor on/off button anytime) and be sure the computer is not simply asleep or in screensaver mode by tapping a key or two on the keyboard and waiting a moment to see if the computer comes back to life. If the computer seems frozen see troubleshooting or check with a computer savvy staff member.

Memory Management


Trying to keep (RAM) memory usage to a minimum will help the computer run speedily and avoid problems such as freezes. Video, audio, and graphic apps require more (RAM) memory than word processing apps. Web pages that are heavy on video/audio or even graphics consume more (RAM) memory. Having too many tabs or windows open at the same time in a web browser, especially web pages heavy on video/audio can overtax the browser and cause it to freeze. When finished with an app, close it. When finished with a tab, close it. These suggestions can be helpful even on newer computers with ample (RAM) memory.

Some web sites run a lot of scripts that the average user is not aware of. These scripts can be collecting data, animating advertisements, or even engaging in malicious activities. If a website repeatedly causes crashes, don't visit it anymore. Seek alternatives that don't overtax.

Plugs, switches, etc


Unless one has been trained by a computer savvy staff, plugs should not be pulled out of/inserted into electric outlets and ethernet wires should not be pulled out of/inserted into (CAT) wall jacks. Reset should not be attempted on routers. Even for someone familiar with doing these tasks on home systems, our industrial systems are far more complex than home systems and should not be tampered with unless trained to do so.

DVDs, CD-ROMs


Apple thinks of DVDs in terms of the dinosaur, so the iMac doesn't have a CD drive. The older computers do have them, but the CD/DVD drives are in a fragile state if they work at all. Also, these drives are useful for administration purposes. Please don't use them. In addition to the chance of breaking them you risk the possibility of losing or damaging your CD/DVD. If it is absolutely necessary to use a CD or DVD, ask about obtaining an external CD/DVD device.

When in Doubt

Do

Discuss


You might be surprised they are happy to help you.

Be Patient


Older computers with minimal (RAM) memory often need time to do things. Given time, it's really amazing what they can get done. Pushed too hard and they can stall or freeze.

In order for these computers to do what is essential, non-essential functions have been turned off. Icons don't wiggle. There are no cute animations. This is all on purpose as cute animations can hog (RAM) memory apps and programs need. However, just because an icon doesn't wiggle when you click on it don't come to the conclusion that nothing is happening. Because you don't see any animated effects don't keep clicking the icon again and again. If you've clicked once, it's likely the computer got your message and is busy processing it. Be patient. Wait a little before trying anything else.

Suggest


There is a box for suggestions in the corner of the counters. Please confine suggestions to topics concerning computers. Computer equipment, problems using the computer, computer advice, wishes, or ideas for development of computer curriculum are all fair game.

When in Doubt


Ask!!

Remember

Keep in mind...


This is not a home computer setup. It is a much more complex industrial scope network. What works at home may not work here.