SoftwareIntroductionSoftware is the set of instructions, program parameters, or data stored on adisk. Remember, the disk itself is hardware; the data on the disk is software.The two categories of software are operating system software andapplications software.Operatingsystem softwareOperating system software manages the operation of the entire computerIts primary job is to manage the system and system resources, suchas the disks, the printers, and the modems. It also helps you to communicatewith the computer to use applications software. Install the operating systemprogram into the system hard drive with the distribution disks beforeattempting to load any other program. Follow the owner/user manual. Theowner/user manual will tell you the setup command that will lead youthrough the process from the display screen. Once you have the operatingsystem installed, put the original distribution disks in a safe place.ApplicationsUser or application software is program disks that help you to accomplish asoftwarespecific goal, such as DOS, Windows (PC), or System 7 (MAC).Distribution disks for applications software require information about themicrocomputer configuration. Software programs have differingrequirements; therefore, refer to the owner/user manual for installation.Once you have installed the applications software, put the originaldistribution disks in a safe place.Using softwareConsciously develop a good, systematic approach in your work habits. Haveyour reveal codes displayed on the screen while you are working. Thisallows you to see any coding errors in the document. You will find it easierto make corrections to the text of a document when you eliminate codingerrors. Break the habit of hitting the ENTER or RETURN key; itunnecessarily enters an undesirable hard return. Save the current documentperiodically. Do this more often than relying just on the timed backupfeature. This will lessen data loss should the system crash or freeze.Another excellent work habit is to save all documents on working copy disks.This saves memory space, facilitates safeguarding and protection, and shouldthe computer develop a virus or lose data during power fluctuations, thedamages would be recoverable. Although initially cumbersome, these habitswill prove well worth your effort to cultivate and maintain.3-31
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