Presario
My Presario - Getting Started
www.compaq.com
214905-002
Notice
© 2000 Compaq Computer Corporation
COMPAQ and the Compaq logo Registered in U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Microsoft and Windows are trademarks of Mi crosoft Corporation.
All other product names mentioned herein may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
companies.
Compaq shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions co ntained herein. The
information in this document is subject to change without notice.
The information in this publication is subject to change without notice and is provided "AS IS" WITH-
OUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND. THE ENTIRE RISK ARISING OUT OF THE USE OF THIS
INFORMATION REMAINS WITH RECIPIENT. IN NO EVENT SHALL COMPAQ BE LIABLE FOR
ANY DIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, PUNITIVE OR OTHER DAM AGES
WHATSOEVER (INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF BUSINESS
PROFITS, BUSINESS INTERRUPTION OR LOSS OF BUSINESS INFORMATION), EVEN IF
COMPAQ HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. THE FOREGOING
SHALL APPLY REGARDLESS OF THE NEGLIGENCE OR OTHER FAULT OF EITHER PARTY
AND REGARDLESS OF WHETHER SUCH LIABILITY SOUNDS IN CONTRACT, NEGLIGENCE,
TORT, OR ANY OTHER THEORY OF LEGAL LIABILITY, AND NOTWITHSTANDING ANY
FAILURE OF ESSENTIAL PURPOSE OF ANY LIMITED REMEDY.
The limited warranties for Compaq products are exclusively set forth in the documentation accompanying
such products. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting a further or additional warranty.
Compaq Presario
Second Edition (August 2000 )
Part Number 214905-002
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Chapter 1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Who Should Read This Guide? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Using My Presario— Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Symbols and Graphics Used. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Computer Illustrations and Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Where Can I Find Information? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-4
Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Safety and Comfort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
How Do I Find Information on the CD-ROM? . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-6
Using My Presario— Learning More CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-6
Chapter 2 Setting Up Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-1
Your Computer at a Glance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2
What’ s in Front? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2
What’ s in Back? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2
Plug In and Go!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
Setting Up Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
Contents
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Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Registering with Compaq and Microsoft . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Internet Service Provider (ISP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Setting Up an ISP Account . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Printer Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Setting Up Your Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Chapter 3 Windows Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-1
Features of the Windows Desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Viewing the Windows Desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Using the Start Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Help. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Accessing Online Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Chapter 4 Using Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-1
Keyboard Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Getting to Know the Standard
Keyboard Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Keyboard Buttons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Using CD/DVD Control Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Using Internet Zone Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Using Quick Launch Web Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Assigning the My Program Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-6
Adjusting the Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-6
Putting Your Computer to Sleep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
Waking Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
Understanding the System Status Lights . . . . . . . . . . .4-8
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Scroll Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Making Screen Selections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Accessing Software and Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Scrolling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Autoscrolling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-10
Speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11
Turning on the Speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11
Adjusting the Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11
Diskette, Hard Drive, CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM,
and Zip Drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
Using the Diskette Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
Using the Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
Inserting a CD into the CD-ROM, CD-RW, or
DVD-ROM Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
Removing a Disc from a Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-14
Playing an Audio CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-14
Playing a DVD-ROM Movie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
Creating Your Own CDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-16
Inserting a Disk Into the Zip Drive
(available on select models) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
Removing a Disk from the Zip Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
Internet Video Camera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-18
Using Logitech QuickCam Internet Video Camera . .4-18
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Chapter 5 Welcome to the Web . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-1
Basic Concepts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
What Is the Internet? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
What Is a Hyperlink? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Compaq Connection Helper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Setting the Internet Buttons to AOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Internet Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
Connecting with Compaq.NET Powered by MSN . . . . 5-4
Connecting with AOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
Web Searches. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
Searching the Web Using Compaq.NET
Powered by MSN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
Searching the Web Using AOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Setting Up Outlook Express E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Typing an E-mail Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Understanding E-mail Addresses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Sending an E-mail Using Outlook Express . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
Sending an E-mail Using AOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Content Advisor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10
Reading Your Outlook Express E-mail Messages . . . . 5-10
Reading Your AOL E-mail Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10
Restricting Internet Content . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-11
My Presario Web Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-12
Checking Your Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-12
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Chapter 6 Common Tasks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-1
Print Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-2
Using the Menu to Print . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-2
Digital Audio Files. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-3
Playing Digital Audio Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-3
Games . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Playing Preinstalled Games on Your Computer . . . . . 6-4
Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-5
Installing Software from a CD, DVD, or Diskette . . . . .6-5
Installing Software Downloaded from the Internet . 6-6
Chapter 7 Computer Upgrades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Internal Components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
Accessing Internal Computer Components . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
Upgrading Components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
Upgrading the CD-ROM, CD-RW,
and DVD-ROM Drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3
Upgrading Computer Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
Adding Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-6
Adding an Additional Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-6
Adding an Expansion or Option Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-9
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Chapter 8 Need Some Help? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-1
Helpful Hints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2
Entering BIOS (CMOS) Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2
Recovery CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
Using the Recovery CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
Compaq Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5
Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5
CD-ROM, CD-RW, or DVD-ROM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-6
Diskette Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
Display (Monitor) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9
Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10
Internet Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-11
Keyboard and Scroll Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-12
Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-13
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14
Glossary
Index
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I
NTRODUCTION
1-1
In This Chapter
In This ChapterIn This Chapter
In This Chapter
Introduction
Congratulations! As the owner of a new Compaq Internet PC,
you have joined the world-wide community of Presario
computer users. Once your computer is set-up and connected to
the Internet, you can explore vast regions of information,
entertainment, and online services.
This guide is designed to help you:
➜
Get acquainted with computer features you’ll want to try
during the first few days or weeks.
➜
Keep your computer running smoothly with the tools on your
computer.
➜
Solve problems if they occur.
Who Should Read This
Guide?, 1-2
Symbols and Graphics
Used, 1-3
Where Can I Find
Information?, 1-4
Safety, 1-5
How Do I Find
Information on the
CD-ROM?, 1-6
1
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Who Should
Read This
Guide?
This guide is designed for
both beginners and
experienced computer
users.You can read from
cover to cover to learn basic
information about your
computer or scan the guide
for information on a
specific topic.
The Glossary, in the back of
this guide, has brief
definitions of computer
terms in everyday language.
The electronic Glossary on
the My Presario—Learning
More CD has even more
terms.
This chapter shows you
how to use this guide and
directs you to other sources
of information.
Who Should Read This Guide?
Using My Presario—Getting Started
This easy-to-scan guide helps you find the information you
want as quickly as possible. The page layout allows you to see,
at a glance, how the information is organized.
The first column lists major topics. It explains what the topic is
and why it is important to you. This column also lists important
warnings and useful tips, and it directs you to additional
reference materials.
The second column explains how to perform a procedure. It
contains step-by-step instructions.
The third column uses graphics to help you visualize the task
and to validate what you are doing, as you do it. Detailed
graphics may span both columns.
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Symbols and
Graphics Used
Warnings and cautions are
displayed to protect you
from injury, your equipment
from damage, and your files
from data loss.
Symbols and Graphics Used
The following words and symbols have special meaning in this
guide and the CD documentation:
Failure to follow directions
may result in bodily harm or
loss of life.
Understanding the background
or concept may help you solve
a problem.
Helpful hints make using your
computer easier and faster.
Another document or another
page in this document has
related information.
▲
Caution: Failure to follow directions may result in damage to
equipment or loss of data.
Computer Illustrations and Features
The computer illustrations shown and the features described in
this guide may differ slightly from your Compaq Presario
Internet PC.
Warning
Did you know ...
Tip
See also ...
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Where Can
I Find
Information?
Information is available in
several forms: printed
documents, electronic
documents on the CD that
came with your computer,
and the Compaq Web site.
Use this guide as your first
point of reference, and then
refer to the following
documents:
➜
Quick Set-Up poster
➜
Safety and Comfort
flyer
➜
Warranty Certificate
➜
My Presario—Learning
More CD
➜
Presario Newsletter
➜
Getting Started:
Microsoft Windows
manual
The Compaq Web site is
available worldwide. As you
explore the Internet, go to
the following address for
information about products,
services, and “cool” activities:
www.compaq.com
Did you know ...
Where Can I Find Information?
Warranty Certificate
The warranty details Compaq’s commitment to repair or replace
parts during the warranty period, and it lists important Compaq
telephone numbers. In the event of a mechanical problem,
contact Compaq, not the retailer that sold you the computer.
Keep the warranty in a safe place for future reference.
Replacing Parts
The Easy Access design of your Internet PC allows you to
access internal components: in most cases, without using any
tools.
My Presario—Learning More CD describes procedures for
upgrading and replacing computer components. If you
experience a problem and you are unable to resolve the issue
after referring to this guide and the My Presario—Learning
More CD, contact Technical Support. If a replacement part is
needed, the technician will send the replacement part, along
with illustrated instructions for removing the factory-installed
part and replacing it.
Upgrading Your Computer
Expand your Presario performance with upgrades like memory
and additional peripherals, such as digital cameras and printers.
To learn more, visit the online store at:
www.compaq.com
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Safety
Your computer is an
electrical device. Treat it
with care to avoid personal
injury and damage to the
equipment.
To reduce the risk of electric
shock and damage to the
equipment, read the Safety and
Comfort guide on the My
Presario—Learning More CD
before performing any
procedures involving the
internal components of your
computer.
During an electrical storm,
disconnect your computer (and
all peripherals) from the
power source. After shutting
down your computer, turn off
the power button on the surge
protector(s).
Warning
Did you know ...
Safety
Safety and Comfort
My Presario—Learning More
CD contains Safety and Comfort
information on how to:
➜
Set up your work area for maximum comfort.
➜
Practice good posture, hand position, work habits, and
health habits while using your computer.
➜
Use a grounding plug to prevent electrical shorts, shocks, or
fires.
➜
Use a surge protector to regulate the flow of electricity to the
computer, modem, and all peripherals, such as a printer,
speakers, and monitor.
➜
Become static-free before removing the side panel.
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How Do I Find Information on the CD-ROM?
Using My Presario—Learning More CD
1. Choose the topic or manual you
want to learn more about by
clicking 2 times.
2. The screen displays the file
hierarchy in the navigation
panel on the left 1 and the
contents on the right 2.
Note: Click the Plus
+
sign
3
next to a topic in the left panel to
display subtopics.
3. Click the topic you want to
view. The screen displays
the topic you selected.
Note: If necessary, use the scroll
bar
4
to view all of the page.
4. To view additional topics,
click topics from the
navigation panel 1.
Note: You can click the Show/
Hide Navigation Pane
5
button
to close the navigation panel and
enlarge the contents panel.
5. When you finish, click the
word exit (a hyperlink) in
the lower right corner of the
screen or click the Close
∫
button in the upper right
corner of the screen (on the
title bar).
Note: You can print individual pages from
the CD or the entire set of documents. You
can also print pages from a Web site.
How Do I Find
Information on
the CD-ROM?
The My Presario—Learning
More CD has information
on the following topics:
➜
Advanced features of
your computer
➜
Solving computer
problems
➜
Safety and comfort
➜
Compaq service and
support
➜
Upgrading your
computer
➜
Government regulatory
information
Electronic documents often
have hyperlinks to help you
find information quickly. When
you pass the cursor over a
hyperlink, a small hand
S
is
displayed. When you click a
hyperlink, it jumps to the
referenced page. Hyperlinks
are represented by navigation
buttons, colored text, and
images.
Did you know ...
In This Chapter
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C
OMPUTER
2-1
Setting Up
Your
Computer
Your Computer at a
Glance, 2-2
Plug In and Go!, 2-3
Registration, 2-4
Internet Service Provider
(ISP), 2-5
Printer Setup, 2-6
Your Internet PC is designed for complete ease of use—from
setting up to upgrading new components. This chapter
introduces you to the internal and external features of your
computer. It also walks you through the process of registering
your computer and setting up an Internet Service Provider (ISP)
account. The remaining chapters of this guide show you how
easy it is to use your Compaq Presario.
Note: Illustrations and features shown may differ slightly from your
Computer.
2
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Your Computer
at a Glance
Before you begin, you’ll
want to become familiar
with the components of
your Compaq Presario.
Some components have
color-coded connectors that
match the ports on the back of
your computer.
Tip
Your Computer at a Glance
What’s in Front?
1 CD-ROM, CD-RW, or
DVD-ROM drive
2 Two USB connectors for
connecting USB devices
(varies by model)—ports for
connecting peripheral
devices, such as gamepads,
joysticks, and video cameras
3 Power button
4 CD storage for storing five
CDs
5 Diskette drive
What’s in Back?
1 Power port
2 PS/2 mouse port; PS/2
keyboard port
3 USB ports for connecting an
Internet keyboard or other
USB devices
4 Serial port for connecting a
serial peripheral device
5 Parallel port for connecting
peripheral devices, such as
printers
6 Monitor port
7 Audio speaker ports
8 Microphone port
9 Modem port for connecting
to a phone line
-
Ethernet port for connecting to an Ethernet network (if
equipped)
Note: Connectors may vary by model.
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Plug In and Go!
If a cable is disconnected or
you move your computer to
another location, this topic
helps you to quickly set up
again.
It’s a good idea to purchase a
surge protector to protect your
computer from electrical
spikes and power surges.
The Quick Set-Up poster that
came with your computer is a
visual guide to setting up your
computer.
If you have home networking,
refer to the home networking
documentation, located on the
My Presario—Learning More
CD, for instructions on
connecting your phone lines.
Tip
See also ...
Tip
Plug In and Go!
Setting Up Your Computer
Note: Do not set up the printer until
your computer has been set up.
1. Connect the monitor
according to the color
coding, icons, and the
instructions from the monitor
manufacturer.
2. Connect the speaker cable
and microphone cable (if
applicable).
3. Connect the power cable.
4. Connect the keyboard to a
USB port on the back of the
unit and the mouse to the
PS/2 mouse port.
5. Connect the telephone cable
between the Modem Line In
~
port and the wall outlet.
6. Plug the monitor and
computer power cables into
the wall outlet or surge
protector.
7. Turn on the monitor and
press the Power On 1
button to turn on your
computer.
Note: If you are setting up your
computer for the first time,
follow the on-screen instructions
to register both your operating system
and your computer. The next two
topics discuss the registration process.
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Registration
The first time you turn on
your computer, you are
guided through the
registration process before
accessing the Windows
desktop. It is very
important that you register
➜
Windows with
Microsoft
➜
Your computer with
Compaq
Registering with Microsoft
enables you to receive
software updates and
important notices about
new Microsoft products.
Registering with Compaq
enables you to receive
technical support for the
hardware, software updates
for Compaq programs, and
other special offers.
Any time you install new
software or hardware, be sure
to register it with the
manufacturer.
Did you know ...
Registration
Registering with Compaq and Microsoft
The registration screen allows you to register with Microsoft
and Compaq from the same display. When you have entered
your personal information (name, address, etc.), you can choose
to register with Micosoft or with Compaq or both.
To register the Windows operating system with Microsoft, fill in
the first check box. To register your computer with Compaq, fill
the second check box. We recommend that you check both
boxes. When you’ve filled in the necessary registration
information, click the Next button to move to the next screen.
When you have finished, you are ready to set up an account with
an Internet Service Provider (ISP). Refer to the following page.
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Internet Service
Provider (ISP)
An ISP gives you access to
the Internet. Just as you
need an account with a
cable company to have
cable service, you must also
have an ISP account to
access the Internet and to
use e-mail.
After setting up your
Internet connection, you
can press the Instant
Internet
∆
button on your
Internet keyboard, and then
like magic—you’re on the
Web!
If you have problems
connecting to an ISP, call the
ISP for assistance.
Did you know ...
Internet Service Provider (ISP)
Setting Up an ISP Account
After registering with Microsoft and Compaq, you are prompted
to set up an ISP account.
Note: Credit cards are required to register with Compaq.NET powered by
MSN and America Online. However, you can check your local area for
ISPs that offer other financial arrangements.
To set up your account, do one of the following:
➜
If you want Compaq.NET powered by MSN as your ISP,
click the Compaq.NET powered by MSN icon and follow
the on-screen instructions.
➜
If you already have Compaq.NET powered by MSN as your
ISP, click I already have Compaq.NET powered by MSN
and follow the on-screen instructions.
➜
If you want America Online (AOL) as your ISP, click the
America Online icon and follow the on-screen instructions.
➜
If you already have America Online as your ISP, click
I already have America Online and follow the on-screen
instructions.
➜
If you already have an existing Internet account other than
Compaq.NET powered by MSN or America Online, click
I Already Have an Internet Provider and follow the
on-screen instructions.
Note: If you do not sign up for an ISP account now, you can click the
Free Internet Trial icon on your desktop and sign up anytime you like.
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Printer Setup
After setting up and
registering your computer,
you are ready to set up your
printer.
A printer allows you to
print any document from
your My Presario—
Learning More CD, your
e-mail, and Web sites.
Compaq registration must be
complete before you plug in
your printer and run the
printer set-up software.
Most new computers have a
Universal Serial Bus (USB)
port for a new printer that
uses the latest technology.
Older printers, which plug
into a parallel port, cannot be
connected to a USB port. Your
printer may use a USB plug
1
(rather than a parallel
plug
2
) for installation.
Did you know ...
Did you know ...
Printer Setup
Setting Up Your Printer
1. Complete Plug In and Go! and Registration first (described
on previous pages).
2. Set up the printer according to the printer manufacturer’s
instructions.
3. Connect the printer to the back of your computer according to
the icons.
4. Turn on your computer (if it’s not already on).
5. Turn on the printer.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Note: Location and style of connectors may vary by model.
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In This Chapter
Microsoft Windows is the operating system that runs on your
computer. This means that Windows controls and manages your
computer by translating your mouse and keyboard instructions
into a language your computer can understand.
The Windows desktop is your personal workspace. On the
Windows desktop, you give your computer instructions to
perform tasks: accessing files, copying files, connecting to the
Internet, reading e-mail, and more.
In this chapter, you will learn how to use the standard features of
the Windows desktop.
Windows
Basics
3
Features of the Windows
Desktop, 3-2
Help, 3-4
For more information on the
Windows desktop, refer to the
Getting Started: Microsoft
Windows manual that came
with your computer.
See also ...
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Features of the Windows Desktop
Viewing the Windows Desktop
When you turn on your computer, Microsoft Windows
automatically starts. The first screen you see after Windows
goes through the startup process is the Windows desktop, the
area in which you work.
Note: The programs and icons displayed vary by model.
On the Windows desktop 2 there are several small graphics 1
(called icons). An icon represents a program, disk drive, file, or
folder, and provides easy access to the programs or documents
you use on a regular basis.
Across the bottom of the desktop is a gray bar (called the
Windows taskbar 3). The taskbar includes the Start button 6,
the Quick Launch area (which provides easy access to Internet
Explorer, Outlook Express, Show Desktop, and Windows Media
Player), buttons for each active program 5, and the system tray
(systray) 4. The taskbar allows you to pick and choose options
or activities, and it is displayed on your desktop.
Features of
the Windows
Desktop
Although computers vary
based on specific hardware
and software, the Windows
desktop has many standard
features.
In this section, you are
introduced to the major
components of the desktop:
➜
Icons
➜
Taskbar
➜
Start menu
➜
Help
Each time you access a
program, a button
5
for that
program appears on the
Windows taskbar
3
. Click a
button to switch to the desired
program.
Did you know ...
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When you click the Start
button, a menu is displayed
that allows you to select
tasks, such as:
➜
Starting a program
➜
Finding or opening a
document
➜
Changing your
computer settings
➜
Shutting down the
computer
You should always turn off
your computer by selecting
Shut Down from the Start
menu. If you shut off your
computer before receiving the
“It’s now safe to turn off your
computer.” message, an error
message is displayed the next
time you turn on your
computer.
Did you know ...
The systray 4 contains icons for some of the system programs
that load automatically at startup. The system clock is also
displayed on the systray.
Using the Start Menu
The following table lists some typical Start menu options and
the function of each option. The available Start menu options
vary by model.
Start Menu Options Functions
Programs Displays a list of programs available on your
computer.
Favorites
Opens your favorite files and Web pages.
Documents Displays a recently accessed list of
documents, which you can select to open
again.
Settings
Allows you to modify Windows desktop or
computer settings.
Search Enables you to search for files or folders
located on a drive that you specify.
Help
Displays answers to your questions about
Microsoft Windows.
Run Opens programs and Web pages.
Log Off
Logs off the current user so that a new user
can log on.
Shut Down Shuts down or restarts your computer.
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Help
Accessing Online Help
1. Click the Start button.
2. Select Help. The Help screen
is displayed with the cursor
in the Search field.
3. Enter a keyword in the
Search field and click Go.
Help
Microsoft Windows
includes online
documentation to help
answer your questions
about how the computer
operating system works.
If you are not familiar with
the features of Microsoft
Windows, several tutorials are
available through Microsoft’s
online Help file.
The Microsoft Web site, at
www.microsoft.com, offers
numerous tools and
information on the following
topics:
➜ Windows
➜ Internet Explorer
browser
➜ Microsoft Knowledge
Base
Did you know ...
In This Chapter
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Using Your
Computer
Keyboard Basics, 4-2
Keyboard Buttons, 4-3
Scroll Mouse, 4-9
Speakers, 4-11
Diskette, Hard Drive,
CD-ROM, CD-RW,
D VD - R O M, a n d Z ip D r i v es ,
4-12
Internet Video Camera,
4-18
4
In this chapter, you learn about the following exciting,
easy-to-use features of your computer:
➜
Keyboard—Become
familiar with the keyboard
and all its capabilities,
including one-button access
to the Internet!
➜
Scroll Mouse—See how
easy it is to use the scroll
mouse and learn shortcuts to
save time.
➜
Speakers—Enjoy the
experience of high-quality
sound with your computer.
➜
Hard Drive, CD-ROM, and
DVD-ROM Drives—Use the
various drives to listen to your
favorite CDs or to watch movies.
➜
Internet Video Camera—
Understand the many capabilities
of an Internet video camera.
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Keyboard
Basics
The standard keys perform
the following functions:
➜
Main keys are the
typewriter-style keys.
➜
Function keys are the
F1 through F12 keys.
Two of these keys are
active even without a
program running. F1
allows you to get help
on Windows-related
topics. F3 allows you to
search for files or
folders.
➜
Arrow keys can be
used for games and to
navigate in a document
or Web site. These keys
allow you to move left,
right, up, and down,
using the keyboard
instead of the mouse.
➜
Numeric keys work
like a calculator keypad.
Keyboard Basics
Getting to Know the Standard
Keyboard Keys
Some keys have special functions when used alone or combined
with other keys. These functions vary depending on the program
you are using.
Note: Style of keyboard may vary.
1
Main keys
3
Arrow keys
2
Function keys
4
Numeric keys
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Keyboard
Buttons
The keyboard buttons make
it easier and faster to get on
the Internet, use your
favorite software, or listen
to your favorite CD. You
might even want to watch a
movie or send an e-mail.
The CD/DVD control
buttons provide a quick and
easy way to play a CD or a
DVD movie at the touch of
a button.
Many CDs begin playing
automatically when
inserted into the drive.
Refer to Playing an Audio
CD in this chapter to play a
CD.
Refer to Adjusting the Volume
in this chapter to adjust the
volume when playing a CD or
a DVD.
See also ...
Keyboard Buttons
The keyboard buttons are shown in the following illustration.
They are discussed in detail on the following pages.
Using CD/DVD Control Buttons
Note: Buttons may vary by model.
1
CD/DVD Control Buttons
5
Volume/Mute Buttons
2
Internet Zone Buttons
6
Sleep Button
3
Quick Launch Help Button
7
LED Status Lights
4
Quick Launch My Program
Button
1
Play/Pause starts or stops
a CD or DVD temporarily.
4
Stop ends the CD or DVD play,
rewind, and fast forward
functions.
2
Rewind/Previous Track
skips to the previous track.
5
Eject/Load ejects or loads the
CD or DVD.
3
Fast Forward/Next Track
skips to the next track.
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With the press of a
keyboard button, you
can get on the Internet
fast, read your e-mail, or
check out the latest in
entertainment.
Depending on which
Internet Service Provider
(ISP) you have, the default
options provided by the
Internet Zone buttons may
vary.
Until you set up your Internet
Service Provider (ISP), each
Internet button takes you to a
window that guides you
through the ISP set-up
process.
Refer to the
“
Setting Up Your
Computer
”
chapter
in this
guide for detailed information
on setting up your ISP.
Did you know ...
See also ...
Using Internet Zone Buttons
Note: Button functions may vary by model and by region.
No. Description
1
Search accesses a Web site that helps you locate news and
information on the Internet. Search for topics including news and
information, shopping, images, music, and video. The default Web
browser is Alta Vista.
2
Activity launches your favorite Internet Zone activity. The default
brings you to your Community center, a vibrant online community
experience with chat sessions, discussion boards, clubs, home
pages, photo albums, and more.
3
E-mail provides one-touch access for sending and reading your
e-mail.
4
Instant Internet provides your daily start point to the Internet. It
connects you to a Web page filled with local weather, news, sports
and financial information.
5
My Presario is your instant connection to Compaq for getting the
most out of your computer and the Internet. Learn about the top
Internet Zones or adventure into your favorite Activity Centers to
get creative using the Web.
6
Retail/Affinity Central provides an instant connection to your
computer store and a variety of leading consumer companies.
7
Entertainment is your online scoop on the world of entertainment
featuring music downloads, streaming video, Web casts,
entertainment news, and reviews.
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