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We're adding a new feature to our newsletter: Computer Terms
Beginning with today's newsletter, every edition will have a computer word or phrase and its definition.
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Today's Featured Computer Term: RAM
Pronounced ramm, which is an acronym for random access memory, RAM is a type of computer memory that can be accessed randomly; this means that any byte of memory can be accessed without touching the preceding bytes. RAM is the most common type of memory found in computers and other devices, such as printers.
RAM is volatile, meaning that it loses its contents when the power is turned off.
In common usage, the term RAM is synonymous with main memory, the memory available to programs. RAM is where computers temporarily store information while they’re running. Think of RAM as an electronic version of your office desk, where you put your pencil, papers, stapler and scotch tape during the work day.
Remember - RAM needs electricity to hold its contents. If the electricity stops, any work you've done that hasn't been saved will be lost. Save your work frequently!
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Today's Topic: What is Windows Explorer?
(Following is the text version of today's topic. To see the graphical version of this topic, go to http://www.stsico.com/html/windows_explorer.html
Windows Explorer is a utility program in Windows 95, 98, NT and 2000 operating systems which lets you manage the files, folders and drives on your computer.
To open Windows Explorer, click Start, select Programs, then select Windows Explorer.
Explorer uses a branching hierarchical structure in a two-part window to help you navigate your computer's resources.
The left side of the Explorer window, the All Folders window, displays the available drive and folder icons and names.
The right side of the window, the Contents portion, displays the actual folder or file icons and names in the drive or folder that you have selected in the left side of the window.
The Menu Bar is a row of commands above the window. When you click one of the menu options, like File or Edit, you will get a drop-down list of related commands you can use in Explorer, just like other Windows applications.
The Toolbar is a collection of icons that represent shortcuts, or quick ways to execute the commands that are also in the drop-down menus.
The bottom of the window contains a Status Bar that displays details of the drive, folder or file that you have selected. The Status Bar feature is useful when you want to see how much actual disk space the file, folder, or drive takes up. |
