Week Seven: Clear

This week we learned about operating systems and utility programs. Although the topic was pretty easy to understand from a general point, it did get fairly nit-picky in certain areas. One of such topics is between application software and system software. As defined by Professor Olson in lecture 7a- Introduction, application software "helps you accomplish a task," these are specific tasks, such as Microsoft Word, or Turbo Tax. While system software is "the collection of programs that are needed for the smooth functioning of a computer and its peripheral devices," usually a more general function for a computer, such as an anti-virus program, or Microsoft Windows XP Professional. 
From the general topic of system software, comes the operating system, which many are familiar with as "what runs a computer." According to the book, "an operating system (OS) is a set of programs containing instructions that work together to coordinate all the activities among computer hardware resources" (Discovering Computers 2010, 398). The operating system is such a powerful tool within a computer unit, because it is what allows the computer to run. Without an operating system, a computer would not be able to function, because of it would not have any instructions to follow, nor any programs to run. Because of the operating system, a user is able to start a computer, whether it be with a cold boot or a warm boot [a cold boot is when a user turns on a computer that was previously completely off, while a warm boot is when a user essentially restarts a computer that was already on]. Operating systems also provide a user interface; the one most common today for users is the graphical user interface, or GUI, which was invented in 1973 by Xerox Alto system, and then used by Apple in 1984, where it was then adopted by other computers today. The other kind of user interface, which is generally used more for network administrative use, is command-line interface. The operating system is also used for managing programs, memory, storage and handling input and output devices. 
Even though operating systems are immensely important in the use of a computer, utility systems, otherwise known as utility, helps users in the maintenance and use of their computer. Utility systems include file managers, which allow users to store documents, pictures, music, etc, into different folders for easy access later on. Search utility is an important function for when users wish to access a document quickly, or if they aren't able to find a file easily. The disk defragmenter utility is a very helpful tool in allowing users to not only have more space in their computer while their files become more organized, but it allows for faster processing as well.  

Week Six: Clear

Memory and Storage
Along with RSI (repetitive strain injury) [see previous blog], another topic that I felt was important was storage! As well as memory, but since I'm currently searching for storage for the data on my computer, it seems more important to me right now. :) Although memory is close behind since I'm also currently researching laptops! But more on that later, maybe. 
So before this course, and this lesson, I wasn't aware that there was more than one type of storage. I thought that there was just flash drives and external hard drives, and that you just stick all your necessary information on there and that's it. But once again, I was wrong. There are actually quite a few kinds of storage, and devices that can be used. [Yay for being informed! :) ] In addition to watching the lectures, I also found this website that helped in the explanation of storage: http://computer.howstuffworks.com/removable-storage.htm. Different types of storage include portable storage (i.e. USB flash drives or memory cards), not-so-portable storage (i.e. internal hard disk, as well as well as some external hard disks), or online storage (i.e. cloud storage). Although everyone should have some kind of storage for backing up data, it is different for everyone. Depending on the amount of storage space needed, products will vary. USB flash drives are usually handy to carry around in case a document or presentation needs to be saved, or turned in. External hard drives generally come with a lot more storage space. Along with external hard drives are pocket hard drives, which allow for more portability, while potentially offering a decent amount of storage space. 
Memory is also an important component of a computer! Depending on what the user of the computer is going to do with the computer, determines how much memory is necessary at the time of purchase. This website helped to explain a little more about memory and its different components: http://www.howstuffworks.com/computer-memory.htm. The website explains the difference between RAM and ROM, as well as describe flash memory, virtual memory, and memory sticks. Memory is not only important in computers today, but also in other electronic devices such as PDAs, cameras, cell phones, and smartphones. Since our society is becoming more technological, people are looking for good portable devices that allows them to keep certain data (i.e. pictures or documents) with them at all times. Another reason, is that music players are becoming more popular on cellphones and smartphones. Storing songs on any device can take up a good portion of memory depending on how much music a person listens too. 
Thus, memory meets storage. Although the two are vastly different, they are very important and oftentimes are used together. But, as I learned in class, before making any major purchases, it is always smart to think what you're going to use the device for and then researching the product before buying it. Following these steps not only help to save money on buying several products, but also allow you to get the most for your money.    

Web 2.0 Tools Project

After creating this Web 2.0 Tools Project, I realized that it was a lot harder than I had expected it to be. But overall the project was fun to create. Although it was frustrating at times, I'm happy with the outcome of my project. 
This project inspired me to be more creative in the way I displayed my pictures and the fonts and colors that I used. By using the Vuvox Collage program to create a slideshow I realized how resourceful this tool could be for future use. Not only is it good for sharing of personal information, but after looking at several other of the presentations featured on the website, it is also a good way to market your business. The program allows for a professional manner because it allows the user to post both pictures and videos of the message they are trying to get across. The upload process was also fast and simple, granting easy access to all the media needed for the presentation. As I found, and as stated in some feedback, the scrollbar at the bottom allows viewers to scroll back and forth throughout the presentation while taking their time and looking at available pictures. Another wonderful thing about this tool is that when you make changes or edit the littlest thing about the presentation, it automatically updates the presentation no matter where you have already posted your presentation.
Thus, I thought this project was every useful, although quite stressful. I went through a few methods of creating my story before officially deciding to use the Vuvox Collage program. In addition to posting my project here, I also posted a link on my Twitter and my Facebook. :) 


Here are the links for my collage, as well as the interaction space where comments/feedback can be posted.  
Web 2.0 Project    
Interaction Method


Enjoy :)

Web 2.0 Interaction Method

Here is my Web 2.0 Project. I would appreciate any comments. Thank you! :)

Week Five: Clear

So this week, there was so much information about memory, different types of storage, input/output devices, etc. Since Blogs five and six are both going to be dealing with all of this information, I figured I'd write about one of the most important issues that many people overlook, until it's too late sometimes. That issue is: repetitive strain injuries (RSI). As previously stated, many people don't pay attention to the signs of RSI, or write it off as nothing. As Mr. Olson states in the lecture, Typing and Pointing, more and more people are being faced with this problem because of the increase in technology use in today's society. 

Fortunately though, doctors as well as computer manufacturers are beginning to take notice and do something about this growing issue. I researched the topic of RSI a little more, and found these websites to be very helpful in not only explaining what RSI was, but some signs for how to tell if you have it (although it is recommended that a doctor be consulted if you think you have some of the listed symptoms), and some helpful ways to avoid it, or to make it better. The websites include: http://www.eecs.umich.edu/~cscott/rsi.html and http://www.ahealthyme.com/topic/rsi. Although both websites list common information, I think it just goes to show how important of a situation this is. I'll be the first to admit that I don't follow many of the rules to RSI prevention, but I'm working on changing that. 
A little FYI, repetitive strain injuries can occur in the workplace, or in the home and any where in between. But, as previously mentioned, manufacturers are coming out with products that help to reduce the occurrence of RSI. Some examples are ergonomic keyboards (pictured below) that create a divide in the keyboard and place the keys at an angle so that less stress is put on your wrists. There are also special types of mice that allow for easier use because the user does not have to continually move their wrist (or hand) with the mouse.