Learn Vista - Mouse and Keyboard

Using computer can not really be dissociated from mouse and keyboard. We are able to interact with computer mostly by utilizing them, like opening file, moving object, creating folder, and so on.

Mouse

A mouse typically has two buttons, the primary button (usually the left button) and the secondary button (usually the right button). Most mouses also include a scroll wheel between the left and right buttons to help you scroll through documents and webpages more easily. On some mouses, the scroll wheel can be pressed to act as a third button. Advanced mouses might have additional buttons that can perform other functions.

Mouse Action

There are some popular actions usually be performed:

Point: Move your mouse so the pointer appears to be touching the item.

Hover: Locate the pointer over an item.

Click: (single-clicking) Point to an item on the screen, and then press and release the primary button (usually left button).

Double-click: Point to an item on the screen, and then click twice quickly.

Right-click: Point to the item on the screen, and then press and release the secondary button (usually the right button).

Select: Point to an item, and click to select it. A selected item is usually a different display (color) from other similar items or is surrounded by a frame.

Multiple-select: Click the first item, hold down the Ctrl key, and click the other item. To select the whole items, click the first item, hold down the Shift key, and click the last item.

Drag: Point to an item on the screen, and then press and hold the primary button, move the object to a new location, and then release the primary button.

Scroll: Roll the wheel backward (scroll down) or roll the wheel forward (scroll up).

Tips for using your mouse safely

Holding and moving your mouse properly can help you avoid soreness or injury to your wrists, hands, and arms, particularly if you use your computer for long periods of time. Here are some tips to help you avoid problems:
- Place your mouse at elbow level. Your upper arms should fall relaxed at your sides.
- Don't squeeze or grip your mouse tightly. Hold it lightly.
- Move the mouse by pivoting your arm at your elbow. Avoid bending your wrist up, down, or to the sides.
- Use a light touch when clicking a mouse button.
- Keep your fingers relaxed. Don't allow them to hover just above the buttons.
- When you don't need to use the mouse, don't hold it.
- Take short breaks from computer use every 15 to 20 minutes.

Keyboard

Keyboard is the main way to enter information into computer. The keys on your keyboard can be divided into several groups based on function:

• Typing (alphanumeric) keys. These keys include the same letter, number, punctuation, and symbol keys found on a traditional typewriter.
• Control keys. These keys are used alone or in combination with other keys to perform certain actions. The most frequently used control keys are CTRL, ALT, SHIFT, the Windows logo key, and ESC.
• Function keys. The function keys are used to perform specific tasks. They are labeled as F1, F2, F3, and so on, up to F12. The functionality of these keys differs from program to program.
• Navigation keys. These keys are used for moving around in documents or webpages and editing text. They include the arrow keys, HOME, END, PAGE UP, PAGE DOWN, DELETE, and INSERT.
• Numeric keypad. The numeric keypad is handy for entering numbers quickly. The keys are grouped together in a block like a conventional calculator or adding machine.

The following picture describes how these keys are arranged on a typical keyboard. Some keyboard layouts may differ.