Getting Started

    This chapter provides basic information about your Gateway computer. Read this chapter to find out:

How to start and turn off your computer
How to use the mouse
How to use your computer safely

Starting your computer

To start your computer:

    1. Connect the cables to your computer using the setup poster.

    2. Turn on the monitor.

    3. Press the power button on the computer.

    4. Turn on any peripherals, such as speakers, printers, or scanners. When the computer is finished starting, the Windows desktop screen appears.

    5. If you are starting your computer for the first time, follow the on-screen instructions to set up your computer.

       

Turning off your computer

To turn off your computer:

    1. Click Start, then select Shut Down. The Shut Down Windows dialog box opens.

    2. Select Shut Down.

    3. Click OK. Windows shuts down your computer.
      If for some reason you cannot use the Shut down option in Windows to shut down your computer, press and hold the power button for about five seconds.

    Warning

    When you shut down your computer, the power turns off but some electrical current still flows through the computer. To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and moving parts, turn off your computer, then unplug the power and modem cords before opening the case.

         

    Protecting from power source problems

      During a power surge, the voltage level of electricity coming into your computer can increase to far above normal levels and cause data loss or system damage. Protect your computer and peripherals by connecting them to a surge protector, which will absorb voltage surges and prevent them from reaching your computer.

      Warning

      High voltages can enter your computer through both the power cord and the modem connection. Protect your computer by using a surge protector. If you have a telephone modem, use a surge protector that has a modem jack. If you have a cable modem, use a surge protector that has an antenna/cable TV jack. During an electrical storm, unplug both the surge protector and the modem.

        An uninterruptable power supply (UPS) supplies battery power to your computer during a power failure. Although you cannot run your computer for an extended period of time with a UPS, a UPS lets you run your computer long enough to save your work and shut your computer down normally.

      Mouse

        The mouse is a device that controls the pointer movement on the screen. This illustration shows the standard mouse.

        As you move the mouse, the pointer (arrow) on the screen moves in the same direction.

        You can use the left and right buttons on your mouse to select objects on the screen.

        You can use the scroll wheel on the mouse to move through a document. This feature is not available in all programs.

      Using the mouse

      To... Do this...

      Move the pointer on the screen

      Move the mouse around on the mouse pad. If you run out of space on your mouse pad and need to move the pointer farther, pick up the mouse, set it down in the middle of the mouse pad, then continue moving the mouse.

      Select an object on the screen

      Position the pointer over the object. Quickly press and release the left mouse button once. This action is called clicking.

      Start a program or open a file or folder

      Position the pointer over the object. Quickly press and release the left mouse button twice. This action is called double-clicking.

      Access a shortcut menu or find more information about an object on the screen.

      Position the pointer over the object. Quickly press and release the right mouse once. This action is called right-clicking.

      Move an object on the screen.

      Position the pointer over the object. Press the left mouse button and hold it down. Move (drag) the object to the appropriate part of the screen. Release the button to drop the object where you want it.

      Working safely

        Before using your computer, read the following recommendations for setting up a safe and comfortable work area and avoiding discomfort and strain.

      Improving monitor legibility and reducing eye strain

        Sunlight or bright indoor lighting should not reflect off the screen of the computer monitor or shine directly into your eyes.

      Position the computer desk and monitor so that you can avoid glare on your screen and light shining directly into your eyes.
      Reduce bright light by installing shades or curtains on windows.
      Use soft, indirect lighting in your work area. Do not work on your computer in a dark room.
      Avoid focusing your eyes on your computer screen for long periods of time. Look away from your computer occasionally, perhaps focusing on a distant object.

      Setting up your computer table and chair

        When you are setting up your computer table and chair, make sure that you use a computer table that is the appropriate height and use a chair that helps you maintain good posture, distributes your weight evenly, and keeps your body relaxed.

      Select a flat surface for your computer table.
      Adjust the height of the computer table so that your hands and arms are positioned parallel to the floor when you use the keyboard and mouse.
      Position your chair so that the keyboard is at or slightly below the level of your elbow, letting your shoulders relax while you type comfortably.
      Adjust the height of your chair so that your knees are slightly higher than your hips. You can use a foot rest to adjust the height of your knees and remove the pressure on the back of your thighs.
      Adjust the back of the chair so that it supports the lower curve of your spine. You can also use a pillow or cushion to provide extra back support.

      Setting up your computer and computer accessories

      Set up the monitor so that the top is no higher than eye level.
      Place your keyboard and mouse at a comfortable distance. You should be able to reach them without stretching.
      Set paper holders at the same height and distance as the computer monitor.

      Sitting at your computer

      Avoid bending, arching, or angling your wrists. Make sure that they are in a relaxed position when you type.
      Do not slouch forward or lean back too far.
      Sit with your back straight so that your knees, hips, and elbows form approximately 90 degree angles when you work.
      Avoid twisting your torso or neck.

      Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain

      Vary your activities to avoid excessive repetition.
      Take breaks so that you can change your position, stretch your muscles, and relieve your eyes.
      Find ways to break up the work day, scheduling a variety of tasks.