Computers 101

Q:
Sometimes when I install software, I get options for "typical", "custom", or "compact" installations. How do I know which one to use?

A:
I don't know about most of our readers, but I generally make my selection after a series of coin flips. If my lucky penny says "custom", then who am I to question it?

Ok, Ok. That may not be the best way, and it does make co-workers think you're slippin' something in yer coffee.

Unless space is a problem, I tend to avoid "compact" installs. Back in the ancient days of computing, hard drives held less then 1 Gig of information (gasp!). Back then, you were always running out of hard drive space, so doing a compact install was often the solution used by the early pioneers.

However, that time has long past (it was over 4 years ago), and most computers now have hard drives big enough to allow either a "custom" or "typical" install. Of course, if you've used all those modern gigabytes of space with excess programs, images, and music, you may still want to think about a compact install.

Just remember, when you go compact, you may lose certain features or find that you need to have the CD handy in order to run the program.

OK, so what about choosing "typical" or "custom"? Typical is good for a quick, no brainer install, but here again, you may be missing out on some features.

I generally choose the "custom" install option. It's been my experience that when the component selection screen pops up, the stuff it would have done in a "typical" install is selected by default.

So, I just look though and decide if there is anything that's not selected thatI want selected—or if there's anything that is selected that I don't need (like foreign language files and such).

Most of the time, I glance over the options and end up leaving everything alone. However, there are times when a certain feature I want is not selected by default, so taking a second to look things over really pays off.

For more on software installation, visit our Software Install Guide...
http://www.worldstart.com/guides/install.htm

~ Steve

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Tip of the Day

"My Computer" Toolbar

Here's a little trick you can do with the "My Computer" desktop icon to make a very cool "My Computer" toolbar.

To create this toolbar, left click and drag your "My Computer" icon to either side of your desktop then release your left mouse button. If you were close enough to the screen edge, you'll get a "My Computer" toolbar.

I've found it helps if you drag the "My Computer" icon to the edge until it's partially off screen. Also, you can drag it to the top / bottom as well.

Once you have a toolbar up, right-click a blank area to customize it.

You can specify large or Small icons, whether you want a desription of each item or not (show text), and if you want the title "My Computer" to be visible (Show Title). If you decide you don't want this toolbar, just choose "Close Toolbar".

As if that weren't enough, if you hold down your CRTL key while clicking one of the items on your new "My Computer" toolbar, you'll get a list of what's in the folder / drive.

Just click to open.

~ Steve

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Amanda's Cool Site of the Day

Mom Shack

Whether your pregnant, a parent, or a grandparent there is a lot of info for you at this site. You can learn about the stages of motherhood from conception to empty nest syndrome to getting be grandma. There is even a section to help you out if you have twins, triplets, or more.

Then there is the "Mom Lifestyle" section: Home & Garden, Beauty & Fashion, Health & Safety, Food & Nutrition, Crafts & Hobbies

That just a small selection of the section and there is ton of information. Learn how to make calculated home improvements, or how to lure ladybugs to your garden. There is even a section on how to deal with computer viruses.

There is even a "Mom Fun" section where you can find chat rooms, games, postcards, and useful links to help you out. Enjoy!

http://www.momshack.com/

Do you have a cool, non-commercial site that you want to share?
Send it to Amanda at amanda@worldstart.com