Learning computer literacy. Useful books in electronic form on computer topics

The article will tell you what a computer is and how to use it.

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Nowadays, a huge number of people can use a computer and laptop. But people are not born with these skills; everything starts from scratch.

Beginners are interested in how to master a computer and laptop from scratch? Where to start learning about a computer/laptop on your own? Let's talk about this in our review.

What is the difference between a computer and a laptop?

Almost nothing. The main difference between a computer and a laptop is portability. If a computer is a stationary device, then a laptop is a mobile device. That is, the computer needs to be installed on the table and used in the future, but the laptop can be freely carried with you, which is what it is intended for.

Both a computer and a laptop consist of a keyboard, monitor, mouse, processor, RAM, etc. Only on a computer all these components are connected to each other, while a laptop is like a single monolithic device.

An operating system is installed on both the computer and the laptop, for example, “ Windows" (most common) or " Linux" If you master, say, a computer, then you can work on a laptop without difficulty and vice versa. Therefore, in this review we will not provide two instructions, but will talk about how to use the computer.

The operating system is a kind of “soul” of the computer. This is software that allows you to work on a computer. When you turn on the computer, the first thing that starts working is the operating system, we see this when the monitor lights up:

Let's start studying the computer with the operating system

If there were no operating system, we would only see a black screen and some incomprehensible letters and numbers that are of no use to us. Working on a computer is actually working with programs that, as a whole, make up the operating system.

You see how the mouse cursor runs across the screen - this is the work of the operating system. What about typing? Photos? Video? Even sounds from speakers are only possible thanks to the operating system. In the last century, music was listened to from the record on which the song was recorded. Nowadays audio and video files are presented in digital format, that is, in the form of programs.

The operating system allows you to “revive” your monitor, mouse, keyboard, speakers and all the devices that together make up your computer. Without it, a computer is just a “non-living” iron organism. Remember, the operating system is the soul of the computer.

"Windows"

In general, operating systems can be different. Some of them are very well known, others are not very common among ordinary ordinary users.

« Windows" refers to the most common operating systems, which is distinguished by its convenience and is perfect for use not only by specialists, but also by ordinary people at home.

« Windows" also comes in different versions: " Windows 95», « Windows 7», « Windows XP», « Windows 8», « Windows 10"etc. The most common are seven, eight and ten. The once popular Windows XP"is officially considered obsolete, although it is quite possible to work with it now.

Distinguish versions " Windows» between each other, based on appearance:

There is also another easy way to find out what version of the operating system is installed on your computer:

• Click on the button in the lower left corner " Start» left mouse button
• Next, click on the item “ Computer" (or " My Computer") with the right mouse button.
• Then in the new window that opens, left-click on the item “ Properties»

• After this, a folder will open containing information on your operating system

Let's find out what operating system is installed on our computer

So, we briefly learned what an operating system is. Now let's start examining the computer itself.

Studying the PC device

Computer parts

In order to learn how to use a computer, you first need to study its design. That is, you need to know what devices are part of such a concept as a “personal computer”.

In principle, most people have an idea of ​​what the components of a computer are called, but we will explain everything in more detail to make it easier for beginners to operate these parts.

So, the computer consists of:

• Internal parts- these are the elements that make up the system unit (a large box with a power button). In principle, the system unit is the computer itself. And everything else, for example, a mouse, are simply components of this computer.
• External parts– these are, in fact, the components of the computer that we connect to the system side (keyboard, etc.).

In turn, all the described parts of the computer can be classified based on their interaction with humans:

• Input devices– these are devices that allow a person to give instructions to a computer (mouse, keyboard).
• Output devices– devices that transmit information from a computer to a person (monitor, speakers).
• I/O devices- these are, accordingly, those devices that combine the concepts described above (disk drive).

Now let's talk about the main devices, without which working on a computer will be impossible.

System unit

What does the system unit look like?

So, the system unit is the brain of the computer. To understand why the system unit is such an important component of a PC, you just need to study what is inside it.

Inside the system unit there is a motherboard - this is a kind of huge microcircuit into which, in fact, absolutely all the elements of the computer are built in: processor, RAM, video card, sound card, disk drive, as well as all the connectors (to which the monitor, keyboard, mouse are connected) , network cable and everything else).

You can also connect a Wi-Fi device, a TV tuner, and game consoles to the system unit. This is a matter of taste and needs. When purchasing, you yourself order what kind of computer you need: for games, for watching videos, or just for accessing the Internet. On the basis of this, the system unit with all its constituent elements is assembled.

There are at least two buttons on the system unit: turning on the computer and rebooting:

Power button on the system unit

All other important parts of the PC, such as a monitor, mouse, keyboard and speakers, are already selected for the system unit. That is, when buying a computer, you need to start with the system unit, and then select everything else for it. By the way, you can freely change your monitor or keyboard if they break down or no longer meet your requirements. But with a laptop, this number will no longer work.

Monitor

computer monitor

Everyone knows what TV is. Everyone was watching him. A computer monitor is not exactly a TV, but it performs the same function, that is, the function of displaying information on the screen. If, in the case of a TV, such information is transmitted through an antenna or television cable (analog signal), then information is transmitted to a computer monitor from the system unit. Even more precisely, the signal comes from the video card, which is located in the system unit, as we learned above.

Monitors have different sizes, which is determined, for example, by the long diagonal of the screen and is measured in inches. The picture quality does not depend on the screen size. The quality of the image is determined by a parameter such as screen resolution. That is, the number of pixels (electronic dots) per square inch. These dots on the screen make up the image. Accordingly, the more dots (the higher the screen resolution), the better, clearer and more vibrant the picture.

Computer speakers

Computer speakers

Just like a monitor, speakers receive a signal with information from the system unit, but they only output it not in the form of an image, but in the form of sound. This signal is transmitted from the system unit via the sound card.

Computer speakers differ from regular classic speakers in that they also have an audio amplifier inside. The sound card transmits only an analog signal (for example, like a player), and then the signal, as usual, is processed in an amplifier and goes to the speakers. Computer speakers have a cord with an outlet precisely because they connect an audio amplifier (not speakers) to the network.

Keyboard

Computer keyboard

Above we discussed output devices, now let's talk about input devices and start with the keyboard.

Everyone knows that the keyboard is designed to type text, which we then (or rather not “later”, but immediately) see on the screen. The keyboard, accordingly, has all the necessary keys with letters, numbers and other symbols.

There are also keys here, thanks to which we can give the computer certain commands. For example, if we press the key " Caps Lock", this will give us the opportunity to print the text in capital letters, or start a word (name, title) with a capital letter. By pressing the keys that have arrows on them, we can scroll the page (on the Internet, or in some folder on the computer) up or down.

Mouse

The computer mouse received this name because it slightly resembles a living mouse, that is, it has a body and a tail (cord):

Computer mouse

A computer mouse is designed primarily so that we can move the cursor on the monitor screen with the greatest comfort. If we used only the keyboard, it would cause us unnecessary trouble and take a lot of time.

A standard mouse has two buttons (left and right) and a wheel. The left button provides, as it were, basic actions when we, for example, hover the mouse cursor over a folder and open it by clicking on this button. In the same way, we close windows and programs - hover the cursor over the cross icon and click on the left button.

The right button is responsible for additional actions, for example, opening a menu or additional windows. The wheel allows you to scroll the page up and down, as is done with the corresponding keys on the keyboard.

Video: How to master a computer and laptop quickly and easily?

Video: What does a laptop consist of?

• you will become familiar with the Windows operating system
• learn about your computer software
• learn to create, edit and delete folders and files
• learn to work in the word text editor
• learn to add pictures, texts, tables, etc. to text documents.
• learn to work in excel
• you will learn to create tables, charts, graphs in Excel
• learn to work on the Internet
• you will understand all the intricacies of creating your mailbox
• learn how to register and communicate on social networks

Upon completion of the course you will receive

Where will you study?

(*Check the exact address of the audience with the organizer of the educational process)

I present to your attention the best, in my opinion, at the moment tutorial for working on a computer in Windows 7. I don't even know how to describe it. It contains everything - from the little things, the basics of working on a computer, to a description of the system settings. You will learn how to install Windows 7, customize the system for yourself, and use all kinds of built-in Windows 7 tools.

In short, the entire system is described in full, in detail and intelligibly. In addition, popular programs are described: Word and Excel in detail. And all this with illustrations and examples. I highly recommend you check it out. It would probably take me half a year to create such a guide about Windows 7. Huge respect and respect to the author of this creation - Sergei Vavilov!

To open this tutorial you will need PDF reader. I recommend using Foxit Reader.

Download tutorial for working on a computer in Windows 7 (13.7 MB)

2.Computer for beginners

I can also recommend you another excellent tutorial “ Computer for beginners» from Alexey Lebedev. Perhaps it will be even better than described above. I just found it later. I highly recommend checking it out - you won’t regret it, I assure you.

Download the tutorial “Computer for Beginners” (8.9 MB)

3. All the secrets of the Internet - a handbook for a network user

I I described this book in a separate article, you can take a look at what it will give you before deciding to download.

Download “All the Secrets of the Internet” (63 MB)

Don't be intimidated by the large size of the book - the link is not from Letitbit and downloads very quickly.

4. Computer Doctor-1

An excellent book by Evgeny Khokhryakov about computer security.

All the nuances of protecting your computer from any threats are revealed. Naturally, with examples and pictures. The quality is simply amazing.

So a miracle happened. Finally, a personal computer or laptop has appeared in your home. But here’s the problem: you don’t know which side to approach it from. And you start thinking about how to learn to work on a computer. The first thing you need to do is stop being afraid of him. It won't break, burn or explode if you press the wrong button. You know how to drive a car, use household appliances, and cell phones. This knowledge is not innate, but acquired. Believe me, a computer is simpler than your microwave oven.

How to learn to quickly use a computer?

1. It is necessary that the computer be at your fingertips every day in order to gradually master it.
2. A textbook for learning a computer should be written in the simplest and most understandable language with the maximum number of pictures.
3. It is advisable that at first you be advised by someone who is familiar with the computer.
4. If you use educational materials, do it gradually, do not get ahead of yourself and do not try to learn everything at once.

Essential skills for those who want to know how to master a computer:

• correct switching on and off;
• downloading a text editor and typing text;
• Internet access;
• email and working with it;
• working with search engines;
• adequate perception of antivirus program signals.

An excellent opportunity for those who want to quickly learn how to use a computer is various audio and video courses, tutorials, trainings and special literature. The Internet is full of similar advertisements. Moreover, not all of the courses offered are paid. But there is one point: to take advantage of these offers you need to at least be able to turn on a computer, use the Internet and a browser. You can also ask one of your family members to help you master the basics of computer terminology and understand the buttons.

How to learn to use a computer?

You don't need to be a genius to master the basics of computer literacy. Of course, you will have to assimilate a certain amount of information, understand some specific terms and the operating principle of several computer programs. Programs that you need to know to fully use most of the useful functions of your computer:

• Windows operating system. The basis of a computer, without it it is just a piece of iron or plastic;
• typing programs (for example, Notepad and Word);
• programs for playing music and films (audio and video players);
• programs that protect your computer (antivirus);
• programs for accessing the Internet (Internet browsers);
• archivers;
• email client, communication programs (for example, Skype or icq);
• programs for viewing photographs, pictures, drawings;
• programs for downloading information from the Internet;
• programs for cleaning unnecessary files and for system recovery in case of failure.

If you want to learn how to work on a computer, you need to master at least the above programs. In fact, there are many more, but this is enough for you to start with.

How to learn to type on a computer?

In order to print, you will need to open Word. At first everything seems complicated. Briefly the basics of the program:

How to learn to type quickly on a computer?

There are two categories of people who type on a computer. Some do not take their eyes off the monitor (touch typing), others from the keyboard. Of course, touch typing is preferable, since you are not distracted by searching for the desired letter on the keyboard. But learning this method is also more difficult. In any case, when typing, you should use all ten fingers. It is best to first study the correct finger layout on the keyboard. Practice a little, perhaps use special training.

Incorrect handling can damage your laptop. A laptop computer is a complex technical device, and knowing how to use a desktop computer will not really help you understand a laptop. Of course, every laptop comes with instructions, but, unfortunately, few people read them. It's good if the user quickly looks through the prohibitions. If you belong to the category of people who decided to purchase a laptop, or purchased it and did not read the instruction manual, then this article will tell you how to use the laptop so that it serves you faithfully for many years.

Let's look at the rules of how to work on a laptop:

• You need to install the laptop on a hard, flat, horizontal surface. Do not install in places subject to vibration.
• Do not overcool or overheat the laptop.
• Do not leave the device in the sun.
• You should not place the laptop on your naked body while working, as, in theory, you can get burned.
• It is worth making sure that moisture does not get on the laptop or any of its parts.
• You should carefully ensure that dust or dirt does not get into your laptop.
• You need to transport your laptop in special bags.
• Do not lift the laptop by the display.
• Do not keep your laptop near devices that generate strong electromagnetic radiation.
• You should not work with the device for a long time, placing it on a bed or a pile covering.
• Do not wipe the lens in the CD-ROM. There are cleaning discs for this.
• Do not hit the laptop.

According to statistics, 80% of laptop computer breakdowns are due to the inability to use the keyboard. This mainly happens due to liquids spilled on it. The complexity of repairs and the high cost of replacing the keyboard, as well as other parts, especially the motherboard, leads to the need to purchase a new computer.

In case of liquid contact

• Turn off the laptop.
• Turn off power.
• Remove the battery.
• Do not shake or turn the laptop over.
• Contact the service center.

An important point in the question of how to use a laptop correctly is the battery. The battery can last, with proper use, 1.5-3 years, after which it will need to be replaced.

Battery Operation

• A new battery should be discharged 5-6 times. It's called training.
• Approximately once a month the battery should be completely discharged. Then remove it from the device (at least for 1 minute), then insert it back and charge.
• If the laptop battery begins to discharge quickly, it is worth repeating the training with pulling it out. If this does not work, then use the energy saving mode.

How to work on a laptop

• When the laptop is running, you cannot connect or disconnect various peripheral devices. Exceptions include USB and LiC cards, as well as external drives.
• Improper use of the battery will reduce its service life. You should carefully read the instructions for using the battery device.
• You should create backup copies of the software from the very beginning of using your laptop.
• Install a good antivirus program. Carefully check the information entering the laptop for viruses. Use licensed programs and trusted sources. If a virus somehow gets onto your computer, it can damage data and programs and disrupt the operation of the operating system.
• It should be remembered that “curing” a laptop computer from malware and restoring the operating system is not included in the warranty service.
• You should not press hard on the power button, as well as the “Reset” button, and you should not use force when inserting the disk into the drive. All these actions can lead to mechanical damage to the laptop.
• Do not slam the laptop lid because the matrix may break.
• You should be careful about blocking access to your computer or hard drive.

Laptops are increasingly popular, they occupy a large niche among people who use computer technology. After all, it often happens that a desktop computer is not the best option. Many users who have purchased a laptop are faced with the fact that they still have to get used to the portable device, because working on it differs from working on an ordinary desktop personal computer. There are some differences between laptops and desktop computers.

Main differences from PC

• Laptops are task-oriented. That is, they lack versatility. All laptops are divided into classes, the category will depend on the purpose of the machine. Creating a universal laptop is impossible today. And all due to the fact that many requirements for a laptop are mutually exclusive.
• Laptops are mobile. Laptops can be easily moved, and the device can work offline for some time. Also a big plus is the possibility of wireless communications. You can also connect a wireless device to your desktop computer, but you will lose the ability to move freely, which is the main advantage of such devices.
• Differences in technology. For a desktop computer, increasing performance is important. But for a laptop - battery life, maintaining the temperature within normal limits and the weight of the portable device.
• Integration of embedded devices. For the user, it is not so important how the devices work, the main thing is that they work. But if suddenly the sound cannot be output to external speakers, for example, then replacing a broken device in a laptop will no longer be enough. It will be necessary to get rid of the problem comprehensively. This is a kind of payment for mobility.
• Upgrade. Unfortunately, it is not possible for laptops. After all, it will not be possible to replace the network card or modem that is built into the motherboard. You can work on increasing the RAM. With certain difficulties, you can replace the hard drive. You will have to face even greater difficulties when replacing the processor. That's all. For many laptops, such replacements are not possible. But with desktop computers everything is much simpler. You can buy a very ordinary computer and “expand” it as needed.
• Functionality and performance. In laptops, optical drives operate at a lower speed than in a desktop computer; the speed of the hard drive is much lower on laptop computers. Similar situations can be observed with other nodes. Everything is better with functionality. Many laptops accommodate various ports, and optical drives are common. A unified set of ports, which is available on desktop computers, is absent on portable ones. You can read their instructions on how to properly use the laptop and everything included in it.
• Reliability. The question is twofold. On the one hand, a mobile device is more reliable because newer technologies were used in its manufacture. But on the other hand, the laptop can be damaged during transportation. And there are many such nuances.

Now you know the basic requirements and rules that will help you answer the question of how to learn to work on a laptop. The main thing to remember is that taking good care of your laptop will help you use its services longer.