Apple Power Macintosh 8100-80, Power Macintosh 8100-80AV User Manual

Power Macintosh

Getting Started

Setup and important health-related information for the Power Macintosh 8100/80 and 8100/80AV

K Apple Computer, Inc.

© 1994 Apple Computer, Inc. All rights reserved. Under the copyright laws, this manual may not be copied, in whole or in part, without the written consent of Apple. Your rights to the software are governed by the accompanying software license agreement.

Startup sound created and performed by Stanley Jordan. © 1993 Apple Computer, Inc.

The Apple logo is a trademark of Apple Computer, Inc., registered in the US and other countries. Use of the “keyboard” Apple logo (Option-Shift-K) for commercial purposes without the prior written consent of Apple may constitute trademark infringement and unfair competition in violation of federal and state laws.

Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this manual is accurate. Apple is not responsible for printing or clerical errors.

Apple Computer, Inc. 20525 Mariani Avenue Cupertino, CA 95014-6299 [phone]

Apple, the Apple logo, APDA, AppleTalk, EtherTalk, LaserWriter, LocalTalk, MacTCP, Macintosh, and StyleWriter are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

Apple AudioVision, AppleCD, AppleColor, Apple Desktop Bus, PlainTalk, GeoPort, Macintosh PC Exchange, Power Macintosh, and QuickTime are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.

Adobe, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, PageMaker, and PostScript are trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated, which may be registered in certain jurisdictions.

CompuServe is a trademark of CompuServe, Inc.

Exposure is a registered trademark of Preferred Publishers, Inc.

IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation.

Lotus and 1-2-3 are registered trademarks of Lotus Development Corporation.

Macintosh Basics was developed using VideoWorks Interactive. VideoWorks Interactive is a trademark of MacroMind, Inc.

Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

Motorola is a registered trademark of Motorola Corporation.

NuBus is a trademark of Texas Instruments.

PowerPC and the PowerPC logo are trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation, used under license therefrom.

QMS is a registered trademark, and ColorScript is a trademark of QMS, Inc.

QuarkXPress is a registered trademark of Quark, Inc.

Quattro is a trademark of Borland International, Inc.

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Write Now is a trademark of T/Maker Company.

Simultaneously published in the United States and Canada.

Mention of third-party products is for informational purposes only and constitutes neither an endorsement nor a recommendation. Apple assumes no responsibility with regard to the performance or use of these products.

Contents

	Communications regulation information					vii
Preface	Welcome to Power Macintosh				ix
Part I Setting Up Your Computer and Learning the Basicsi
1	Setting Up	1
	Plugging in the computer			2
	Installing an expansion card			3
	Connecting a monitor		4
	Connecting the mouse and keyboard					8
	Connecting other devices			9
	Turning the computer on			9
	Problems turning on your computer?					12
	What’s next?	13
2	Safety and Health Information				15
	Safety instructions		15
	Health-related information about computer use						17
	What’s next?	21

iii

3 Learning to Use Your Computer	23
Part 1: Starting the Macintosh Basics tour 24
Part 2: Practicing your new skills	28
Answers to the review questions	32
Clues on your screen 42
Turning the computer off 43

4 Basic Skills	45
Working with icons		46
Working with windows			48
Working with documents			50
Working with disks		52
Organizing your desktop			54
Working with pull-down menus 55
Keyboard shortcuts in the Finder and in directory dialog boxes 56

Part II More About Your Macintoshi
5 Expanding Your Computer and Connecting Other Equipment				59
Installing an expansion card			59
Expanding memory	68
Installing other internal devices			68
Your computer at a glance 69
Connecting hard disks and other SCSI devices 72
Connecting a printer	77

iv Contents

Connecting an additional monitor		78
Connecting a trackball or other input device 78
Connecting a microphone	79
Connecting a GeoPort Telecom Adapter or modem 80
Connecting to a high-speed network		80
Attaching a security lock	82

6 Using Software With Your Power Macintosh	83
Using Power Macintosh application programs 83
Using older Macintosh programs 85
The software programs that came with your computer 86

7 Using Stereo Audio	87
About your computer’s sound ports		88
Connecting an audio device 89
Recording an alert sound	92
Connecting external stereo speakers		93
Playing audio CDs 94

8 Using Video With Your Power Macintosh 8100/80AV	95
Example of a Macintosh system for working with video 96
About your computer’s video ports 97
Connecting a VCR to view video images or capture frames	100
Recording video movies 105

Recording a computer presentation on videotape with voice annotation 105 Using a television as a monitor 109

Contents v

Part III	Troubleshootingi
9	Solutions to Common Problems				115
	When you run into trouble 115
	Solutions to common problems			118
10	Reinstalling System Software				127
	Do you need to install system software? 128
	Starting up from a built-in CD-ROM drive					128
	Starting up from a floppy drive			129
	Reinstalling system software			130
	Custom installation 132
	Reinstalling the CD-ROM software				132
	Copying system software from the Power Macintosh CD disc 134
Appendix	Exchanging Files With DOS or Windows					137
	Macintosh PC Exchange at a glance				137
	Using DOS-format disks on your Macintosh					138
	Opening DOS documents on your Macintosh					141
	Assigning Macintosh programs to DOS documents 142
	Saving documents onto a DOS-format disk					151
	Index	155

vi Contents

Communications regulation information

FCC statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device in accordance with the specifications in Part 15 of FCC rules. See instructions if interference to radio or television reception is suspected.

Radio and television interference

The equipment described in this manual generates, uses, and can radiate radio-frequency energy. If it is not installed and used properly—that is, in strict accordance with Apple’s instructions—it may cause interference with radio and television reception.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device in accordance with the specifications in Part 15 of FCC rules. These specifications are designed to provide reasonable protection against such interference in a residential installation. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.

You can determine whether your computer system is causing interference by turning it off. If the interference stops, it was probably caused by the computer or one of the peripheral devices.

If your computer system does cause interference to radio or television reception, try to correct the interference by using one or more of the following measures:

mTurn the television or radio antenna until the interference stops.

mMove the computer to one side or the other of the television or radio.

mMove the computer farther away from the television or radio.

mPlug the computer into an outlet that is on a different circuit from the television or radio. (That is, make certain the computer and the television or radio are on circuits controlled by different circuit breakers or fuses.)

If necessary, consult an Apple-authorized service provider or Apple. See the service and support information that came with your Apple product. Or, consult an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions. You may find the following booklet helpful: Interference Handbook (stock number 004-000-00493-1). This booklet, prepared by the Federal Communications Commission, is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402.

IMPORTANT Changes or modifications to this product not authorized by Apple Computer, Inc., could void the FCC Certification and negate your authority to operate the product.

This product was tested for FCC compliance under conditions that included the use of Apple peripheral devices and Apple shielded cables and connectors between system components. It is important that you use Apple peripheral devices and shielded cables and connectors between system components to reduce the possibility of causing interference to radios, television sets, and other electronic devices. You can obtain Apple peripheral devices and the proper shielded cables and connectors through an Apple-authorized dealer. For non-Apple peripheral devices, contact the manufacturer or dealer for assistance.

Communications Regulation Information

vii

DOC statement

DOC Class B Compliance This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.

Observation des normes—Classe B Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les limites applicables aux appareils numériques de la Classe B prescrites dans les règlements sur le brouillage radioélectrique édictés par le Ministère des Communications du Canada.

VCCI statement

CD-ROM drive

WARNING Making adjustments or performing procedures other than those specified in your equipment’s manual may result in hazardous exposure.

WARNING Do not attempt to disassemble the cabinet containing the laser. The laser beam used in this product is harmful to the eyes. The use of optical instruments, such as magnifying lenses, with this product increases the potential hazard to your eyes. For your safety, have this equipment serviced only by an authorized Apple service provider.

If you have an internal Apple CD-ROM drive in your computer, your computer is a Class 1 laser product. The Class 1 label, located on the computer, indicates that the drive meets minimum safety requirements.

Class 1 label

viii Communications Regulation Information

Welcome to Power Macintosh

Congratulations on the purchase of your new Macintosh. Your computer is designed to give you the highest performance combined with real ease of use—it’s easy to set up, easy to use, and easy to expand. This manual will guide you through the setup procedure, tell you how to expand your Macintosh, and provide many tips on using your new system.

Your Macintosh is powered by the new microprocessor (or “chip”). This microprocessor was designed by Apple Computer, Inc., Motorola, Inc., and IBM Corporation. The microprocessor uses Reduced Instruction Set (RISC) technology to deliver very high performance at the lowest possible cost. The RISC microprocessor represents the state of the art in microprocessor design.

Your new Macintosh will run almost all your existing Macintosh software, but for best performance and greatest speed, look for the new software programs designed especially for Power Macintosh computers. You’ll find Power Macintosh programs at any software store that carries products for Macintosh.

ix

Setting Up Your Computer and

Learning the Basics

Chapter 1	Setting Up
Chapter 2	Safety and Health Information
Chapter 3	Learning to Use Your Computer
Chatper 4	Basic Skills

	Part I of this book provides the information you need
	to set up and learn about your Macintosh. It includes
	instructions for
	m Setting up the computer and turning it on	I
	m Using the computer safely
	m Learning basic Macintosh skills
	If you are new to the Macintosh, go through all
	the chapters in this section. You’ll find a tutorial
	in Chapter 3 that will acquaint you with
	Macintosh skills.	part
	If you’re an experienced Macintosh user, go through
	the setup instructions in Chapter 1 and read the
	health and safety information in Chapter 2, then
	proceed to Part II, “More About Your Macintosh.”

Follow the instructions in this

section to set up your computer

1 Setting Up

Setting up your computer involves these steps: m Plugging in the computer

m Connecting a monitor

m Connecting the mouse and

keyboard

m Turning the computer on

Macintosh computer

Mouse	Adapters for composite video	Keyboard cable
	(Power Macintosh 8100/80AV only)

Monitor

Keyboard

Monitor cable	Monitor power cord	Computer power cord
(sometimes built into the monitor)	(sometimes built into the monitor)

1

Plugging in the computer

Before you plug your Macintosh into a wall socket, carefully read all the installation instructions in Chapter 1. Then, before you connect anything to your Macintosh, follow the instructions below to plug it in. The plug grounds and protects the computer from electrical damage while you are setting up.

When you are ready to begin:

1Plug the socket end of the computer’s power cord into the recessed power plug (marked with the symbol ≤) on the back of the computer.

2Plug the other end of the power cord into a three-hole grounded outlet or power strip.

Choose a power outlet to which you have easy access.

WARNING This equipment is intended to be electrically grounded. Your Macintosh is equipped with a three-wire grounding plug—a plug that has a third (grounding) pin. This plug will fit only a grounded AC outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact a licensed electrician to replace the outlet with a properly grounded outlet. Do not defeat the purpose of the grounding plug!

2 Chapter 1

Power cord socket

Power cord plug

IMPORTANT Be sure at least one end of the power cord is within easy reach so that you can unplug the computer when you need to.

If the computer starts up: If you hear a tone, the computer has started up and you need to turn it off before proceeding. The power switch is located on the back of the computer and is marked with the symbol I. Press the switch to turn the computer off.

Installing an expansion card

If you purchased any expansion cards for your Macintosh, install them now (see “Installing an Expansion Card” in Chapter 5 for instructions). If you don’t have an expansion card, go on to the next section, “Connecting a Monitor.”

Setting Up

3

Connecting a monitor

You can connect many types of monitors to your Macintosh, including:

mApple AudioVision monitors. AudioVision monitors include built-in speakers, a microphone, video, and an ADB port (for an input device such as a keyboard).

mMost standard monitors. See the Technical Information booklet that came with your computer for a complete list.

This section contains instructions for connecting both types of monitors. To connect a monitor from a manufacturer other than Apple, also refer to the instructions that came with the monitor.

Connecting the monitor’s power cord

Monitors have two cords to connect: a power cord and a monitor cable. To connect the monitor power cord:

1Place the monitor where you will be using it.

Keep in mind these considerations:

m Allow a few inches for air circulation around the computer and monitor. m Make sure the top of the screen is slightly below eye level when you’re

sitting at the keyboard.

m Position the monitor to minimize glare and reflections on the screen from overhead lights and windows.

m Consult “Arranging Your Office” in Chapter 2 for suggestions about locating your computer equipment.

2Connect the monitor’s power cord to the monitor.

On some monitors, the cord is already attached.

4 Chapter 1

3Plug in the monitor’s power cord.

Some power cords are designed to plug into the back of your computer. You can also plug the power cord into a grounded electrical outlet (an adapter may be needed).

Some monitors have to be connected to a grounded power outlet, not to the computer’s power socket. Check the information that came with the monitor.

Monitor power cord

Monitor power socket

Setting Up

5

Connecting the monitor cable

After you plug in the monitor’s power cord, you connect the monitor cable to the computer’s monitor port. Your computer has two monitor ports: a standard monitor port, and a high-density monitor port for AudioVision monitors. The high-density port accepts a monitor with a screen 16 inches or smaller (measured diagonally).

High-density monitor port (for connecting an AudioVision monitor)

Second monitor port (for connecting a standard monitor)

You can connect one or two monitors of either type, or one of each type.

To connect the monitor cable:

1Attach the monitor cable to the monitor.

On some monitors, the cable is already attached.

6 Chapter 1

2Attach the monitor cable to one of the monitor ports on the back panel of the computer.

If the monitor is an AudioVision model, such as the Apple AudioVision 14, attach the monitor cable to the computer’s high density monitor port. If the monitor is a standard model, attach the monitor cable to the standard monitor port.

AudioVision monitors are connected here.

Standard monitors are connected here.

If you have an AudioVision monitor, see the information that came with the monitor to use its special features.

Setting Up

7

Connecting the mouse and keyboard

You have a choice of several keyboards for your Macintosh. They are all connected the same way.

1Plug the mouse cable into the port on either side of the keyboard.

Most right-handed people prefer to use the mouse with their right hand; most left-handed people prefer to use their left hand. Plug the mouse into the port on the side you prefer.

The plug and the port are marked with the same icon (◊). Align the icons before you insert the plug. The positions of the port and icon on your keyboard may be different from those pictured.

ADB icon

By the way:

the Apple Desktop Bus (ADB) icon.

2Plug the keyboard cable (both ends are the same) into the other port on the keyboard.

3Plug the keyboard cable into the port on the back of the computer marked with the ◊icon.

Some monitors have a port to which you can connect the keyboard or mouse. See the information that came with your monitor.

8 Chapter 1

Connecting other devices

If you are new to the Macintosh: It’s a good idea to get some experience with your computer before connecting other devices, such as a printer or scanner. Go through the rest of the material in Part I, including the learning materials in Chapter 3.

When you are ready to connect other devices to your Macintosh, follow the instructions in Chapter 5.

Turning the computer on

To turn on the computer for the first time, follow these steps.

1Turn on the monitor.

See the information that came with your monitor for the location of the power switch. On Apple monitors, the power switch has this icon: I.

By the way: You only need to turn on the monitor once. From now on, the monitor will turn off automatically when you shut down the computer, and it will turn on automatically when you start up the computer. (If the monitor is not plugged into the computer, it must be turned on separately each time you turn on the computer.)

Setting Up

9

2Turn on your computer by pressing the Power On key.

You’ll find the Power On key at the top of the keyboard. You can recognize this key by the triangle outline on it.

10 Chapter 1

3Check to see what’s on your screen.

m If you see the Macintosh desktop, shown here, your system software is already set up correctly. Skip now to “What’s Next?”

Hard disk icon

Macintosh desktop

mIf you see a blinking question mark, you need to install system software on the computer’s hard disk. (System software is a set of programs the computer uses to start itself up.)

See “Reinstalling System Software” in Chapter 10 of this book for information on installing system software.

mIf you see anything else on your screen, or if you see nothing at all, see the next section, “Problems Turning on Your Computer?”

IMPORTANT If you need to turn off your computer at any point, please see “Turning the Computer Off” at the end of Chapter 3. It is very important to use the correct procedure for shutting down your Macintosh before turning it off.

Setting Up

11

Problems turning on your computer?

If you don’t see anything on the screen, check these items to see if you can identify the problem.

mIs the computer plugged into a power source? If it is plugged into a power strip, is the power strip turned on?

mIs the computer turned on? The power-on light on the front panel should be on.

mAre the keyboard and mouse cables connected correctly? (Don’t disconnect the keyboard or mouse cables while your computer is on. You could damage your equipment.)

mIs the monitor power cord plugged in?

mIs the monitor turned on? (Check the power-on light on the front of the monitor.)

mIs the monitor’s cable attached firmly to both the monitor and computer?

mIs the brightness control on the monitor adjusted correctly? (On Apple monitors, the brightness control is marked with the symbol ¤.)

12 Chapter 1

What’s next?

You’ve completed setting up your computer. Next, be sure to read Chapter 2, “Safety and Health Information,” which contains important tips on working safely and comfortably with your computer.

Then continue with one of the following steps:

mIf you are new to the Macintosh, turn to Chapter 3, “Learning to Use Your Computer.”

mIf you are an experienced Macintosh user, turn to Part II, “More About Your Macintosh.”

mIf you want to install application software on your computer, refer to Chapter 6 of this book and to the Macintosh Reference for information on setting up your programs and managing memory. You’ll need this information to properly set up any software programs specifically designed for Power Macintosh computers.

If you have questions about your computer that are not covered in this book, consult the Macintosh Reference.

Setting Up

13

Read this section to learn how to

use your computer safely

and comfortably

2 Safety and Health Information

Safety instructions

For your own safety and that of your equipment, always take the following precautions.

Turn off the computer completely and disconnect the power plug (by pulling the plug, not the cord) if any of the following conditions exists:

mThe power cord or plug becomes frayed or otherwise damaged.

mYou spill something into the case.

mYour Macintosh is exposed to rain or any other excess moisture.

mYour Macintosh has been dropped or the case has otherwise been damaged.

mYou suspect that your Macintosh needs service or repair.

mYou want to clean the case (use only the recommended procedure described below).

For additional safety:

mIf you ever need to remove the cover of your computer, replace it before you use the computer.

mNever turn on your computer with any of the internal parts removed.

mNever turn on your computer with any parts of the external closure removed.

15

Be sure that you always do the following:

mKeep your Macintosh away from sources of liquids, such as wash basins, bathtubs, shower stalls, and so on.

mProtect your Macintosh from dampness or wet weather, such as rain, snow, and so on.

mRead all the installation instructions carefully before you plug your Macintosh into a wall socket.

mKeep these instructions handy for reference by you and others.

mFollow all instructions and warnings dealing with your system.

WARNING Electrical equipment may be hazardous if misused. Operation of this product, or similar products, must always be supervised by an adult. Do not allow children access to the interior of any electrical product and do not permit them to handle any cables.

To clean the case, do the following:

1Turn off the computer and then disconnect the power plug. (Pull the plug, not the cord.)

2Wipe the surfaces lightly with a clean, soft cloth dampened with water.

WARNING If you have a problem with your computer and nothing in the manuals that came with the computer solves the problem, consult the service and support information that came with your computer for information on how to contact an Apple-authorized service provider or Apple for assistance.

16 Chapter 2

Health-related information about computer use

Muscle soreness, eye fatigue, and other discomforts and injuries sometimes associated with using computers can occur from performing any number of activities. In fact, misuse of the same muscles during multiple activities can create a problem that might not otherwise exist. For example, if you engage in nonwork activities that involve repetitive stress on the wrist—such as bicycling—and also use your computer keyboard improperly, you may increase your likelihood of developing wrist problems. Some individuals are at greater risk of developing these problems because of their health, physiology, lifestyle, and general exposure to stress. Work organization and conditions, such as workstation setup and lighting, also play a part in your overall health and comfort. Preventing health problems is a multifaceted task that requires careful attention to the way you use your body every hour of every day.

The most common health effects associated with using a computer are musculoskeletal discomfort and eye fatigue. We’ll discuss each area of concern below. For information about electric and magnetic emissions, look in the reference material that came with your computer.

Musculoskeletal discomfort

As with any activity that involves sitting for long periods of time, using a computer can make your muscles sore and stiff. To minimize these effects, set up your work environment carefully, using the guidelines that follow, and take frequent breaks to rest tired muscles. To make working with your computer more comfortable, allow enough space in your work area so that you can change position frequently and maintain a relaxed posture.

Another type of musculoskeletal concern is repetitive stress injuries (RSIs), also known as cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs). These problems can occur when a certain muscle or tendon is repeatedly overused and forced into an unnatural position. The exact causes of RSIs are not totally understood, but in addition to awkward posture, such factors as the amount of repetition, the force used in the activity, the individual’s physiology, workplace stress level, and lifestyle may affect the likelihood of experiencing an RSI.

Safety and Health Information

17

RSIs did not suddenly arise when computers were invented; tennis elbow and writer’s cramp, for example, are two RSIs that have been with us for a long time. Although less common than other RSIs, one serious RSI discussed more often today is a wrist problem called carpal tunnel syndrome, which may be aggravated by improper use of computer keyboards. This nerve disorder results from excessive pressure on the median nerve as it passes through the wrist to the hand.

This section offers advice on setting up your work area to enhance your comfort while you use your computer. Since the effects of repetitive movements associated with using a computer can be compounded by those of other work and leisure activities to produce or aggravate physical problems, proper use of your computer system must be considered as just one element of a healthy lifestyle.

No one, of course, can guarantee that you won’t have problems even when you follow the most expert advice on using computer equipment. You should always check with a qualified health specialist if muscle, joint, or eye problems occur.

Eye fatigue

Eye fatigue can occur whenever the eyes are focused on a nearby object for a long time. This problem occurs because the eye muscles must work harder to view an object that’s closer than about 20 feet (6 meters). Improper lighting can hasten the development of eye fatigue. Although eye fatigue is annoying, there’s no evidence that it leads to permanent damage.

Whenever you’re engaged in an activity that involves close-up work—such as reading a magazine, doing craft work, or using a computer—be sure to have sufficient glare-free lighting and give your eyes frequent rest breaks by looking up and focusing on distant objects. Remember to have your eyes examined regularly.

To prevent discomfort and eye fatigue:

mArrange your work space so that the furniture is properly adjusted for you and doesn’t contribute to an awkward working posture.

mTake frequent short breaks to give your muscles and eyes a chance to rest.

18 Chapter 2

Shoulders relaxed

Forearms and hands in a straight line

Forearms level or tilted up slightly

Lower back supported

Thighs horizontal

Arranging your office

Here are some guidelines for adjusting the furniture in your office to accommodate your physical size and shape.

mAn adjustable chair that provides firm, comfortable support is best. Adjust the height of the chair so your thighs are horizontal and your feet flat on the floor.

The back of the chair should support your lower back (lumbar region). Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adjusting the backrest to fit your body properly.

mWhen you use the computer keyboard, your shoulders should be relaxed. Your upper arm and forearm should form an approximate right angle, with your wrist and hand in roughly a straight line.

45–70 cm (18–28 in.)

Top of the screen at or slightly below eye level (You may need to adjust the height of your monitor by placing something under it or by raising your work surface.)

Screen positioned to avoid reflected glare

Clearance under work surface

Feet flat on the floor

Safety and Health Information

19

You may have to raise your chair so your forearms and hands are at the proper angle to the keyboard. If this makes it impossible to rest your feet flat on the floor, you can use a footrest with adjustable height and tilt to make up for any gap between the floor and your feet. Or you may lower the desktop to eliminate the need for a footrest. Another option is to use a desk with a keyboard tray that’s lower than the regular work surface.

mPosition the mouse at the same height as your keyboard. Allow adequate space to use the mouse comfortably.

mArrange the monitor so the top of the screen is slightly below your eye level when you’re sitting at the keyboard. The best distance from your eyes to the screen is up to you, although most people seem to prefer 18 to 28 inches (45 to 70 cm).

mPosition the monitor to minimize glare and reflections on the screen from overhead lights and windows. You may want to use a tiltable monitor stand. The stand lets you set the monitor at the best angle for viewing, helping to reduce or eliminate glare from lighting sources you can’t move.

Avoiding fatigue

mChange your seated position, stand up, or stretch whenever you start to feel tired. Frequent short breaks are helpful in reducing fatigue.

mUse a light touch when typing or using a mouse and keep your hands and fingers relaxed.

mSome computer users may develop discomfort in their hands, wrists, or arms after intensive work without breaks. If you begin to develop chronic pain or discomfort in your hands, wrists, or arms, consult a qualified health specialist.

mAllow adequate workspace so that you can use your keyboard and mouse comfortably. Place papers or other items so you can view them easily while using your computer. A document stand may make reading papers more comfortable.

mEye muscles must work harder to focus on nearby objects. Occasionally focus your eyes on a distant object, and blink often while you work.

mClean your screen regularly. Keeping the screen clean helps reduce unwanted reflections.

20 Chapter 2