Are you new to using computers? Do you wonder what
people mean when they say the cloud, Windows, ISP, or
app? Perhaps you just want to know more about how
computers work. When it comes to learning today's
technology, our Computer Basics troubleshooting techniques tutorial has all of the
basic concepts covered.

[size=16pt]Setting up a computer [/size]
So you own a computer, the next step you're looking forward to is using it.
Sometimes setting up a computer can be be challenging for new users, in today's tutorial, you'll learn how to setup your laptop and desktop computers in minutes.
Setting up a computer
You have a new computer and are ready to set it up. While this may seem like an overwhelming
and difficult task, it is actually quite simple. It doesn't matter what brand of computer you have
because most computers are set up in a similar way.
If you're setting up a newly purchased computer that's still in the box, you'll probably find a
how-to guide in the packaging that includes step-by-step details. However, even if it didn't
include instructions you can still set up the computer in a few easy steps. In this lesson, we'll go
through the different steps needed to set up a typical computer.
Watch the video to learn how to set up a desktop computer
.

Setting up a laptop computer


If you have a laptop, setup should be easy: Just open it and press the power button. If the battery
isn't charged, you'll need to plug in the AC adapter. You can continue using the laptop while it
charges.
If your laptop has any peripherals, like external speakers, you may want to read the
instructions below because laptops and desktops generally use the same types of connections.

Setting up a desktop computer

Step 1

Unpack the monitor and computer case from the box. Remove any plastic covering or
protective tape. Place the monitor and computer case where you want on a desk or work area.
Think about where you want your desk or work area to be located, and where you want your
monitor, computer case, and other hardware to be. Be sure to place your computer case in an area
that is well ventilated and that has good air flow. This will help to prevent overheating.

Step 2

Locate the monitor cable. There are several types of monitor cables, so the one on your
computer may not look like the one in the image at the left. If you're having trouble finding your
monitor cable, refer to the instruction manual for your computer. (If you have an all-in-one
computer that's built into the monitor, you can skip to Step 4).

Step 3

Connect one end of the cable to the monitor port on the back of the computer case and the
other end to the monitor. Hand tighten the plastic-covered screws on the monitor cable to secure
it.
Many computer cables will only fit a specific way. If the cable doesn't fit, don't force it or you
might damage the connectors. Make sure the plug aligns with the port, then connect it.
To figure out which cables belong in which ports, try our Connecting Cables interactive.

Step 7

Locate the two power supply cables that came with your computer. Plug the first power supply
cable into the back of the computer case, and then into a surge protector. Then, using the other
cable, connect the monitor to the surge protector.

Step 8

Finally, plug the surge protector into a wall outlet. You may also need to turn on the surge
protector if it has a power switch.
If you don't have a surge protector, you can plug the computer directly into the wall. However,
this is not recommended because electrical surges can damage your computer.
Setup complete
Your basic computer hardware is now set up. Before you start it up, spend some time arranging
your workspace. A workspace that is arranged well can improve your productivity and
promote health.
For more information on arranging your workspace, you can view the Computer Safety and
Maintenance lesson in this tutorial.
Challenge!
 If you have a desktop computer that is already set up at home, take a look at it.
o Look at the monitor cable, and see where it connects to the computer case and
monitor.
o Locate the power cords for the monitor and computer case.
o Locate the audio ports.
 Does your computer have a VGA monitor port, or another kind?
 Do you have a USB or PS/2 mouse?
 Do you have a USB or PS/2 keyboard?
 Is your computer plugged into a surge protector?
Please Web masters in the house, if there's anywhere I've err, please draw my attention to it.

And if you have any computer related question, don't forget to drop it here.
To be continued...