Fran,

Good for you for starting this discussion.

I have a book I'd like to recommend. It's How to Use HTML3 by Scott Arpajian. It's easy to read, complete, and extremely well laid out. And although it's only a little over 200 pages, it gives good instruction on tables, frames,plug-ins, transparent images, and much more.

Publisher is ZD Press, 1996.

Katie

Thanks for the information Katie about the HTML book. I'll look into it for sure.

Just today I bought two computer books on a shopping expedition upstate where they have a Walden Books, and I can get a discount, always welcome, especially when buying Computer books.

I use PageMaker a lot for Desktop Publishing, and this book came highly recommended. It is called PageMaker for Macintosh 6 Visual Quick Start. It is by David Browne, and is published by Peachpit Press. Price about $17, and is available in both Mac and Window editions. Small enough to check on while you are at your computer, not like the tome that came with PageMaker.

The other book is Macintosh specific, but has won many awards. It is called, "MacWorld Mac and Power Mac Secrets - 3rd Edition. Not cheap. About $40 and published by IDG publishers. But it does come with a wonderful CD ROM disk with some full blown programs on it plus lots of good stuff. The Boston Computer Society called it the BEST Mac book of the year. Any Mac fanatic would love it. Save your pennies and buy it, or put it on your wish list for Christmas. It weighs a ton, and has over 1,000 pages of Mac and Power Mac Secrets!!

Hi Fran,

I just bought a new computer with Windows 95 installed. I need good book. Do you know a good one? I don't much like the dummy books.

Thanks Earlene

Dear Earlene,

I'll ask our PC guru to suggest a good book for you. He will be in touch. My field is not Windows but Macintosh. I am sure you will have a wonderful time with your new computer, and so glad you checked in here.

Has anyone any information of Video Software School, Windows "95? I saw it advertised on TV last night and wondered if it would be worth the money ($80.00) to send for it.

I think I might be able to learn from a video tape, but thought it is a lot of money.....

Hi, Earlene, I might not have noticed your message had FranO not E-Mailed me regarding your posting. Sorry about that

I need good book. Do you know a good one? I don't much like the dummy books.

The BEST book on Windows I ever read or bought was "Voodoo Windows" by Kay Yarborough Nelson, published by Ventana Press. It was oriented to Windows 3.11, of course.

She has a newer book, "Voodoo Windows 95", which I believe you would love, especially if the "Dummy" and "Idiot" books turn you off.

And no, you don't need bat's wings nor eye of newt to follow her recipes. She explains the basics better than any Micro$oft manual and then shows you features you can't even find in the M$ manuals!

The book is so organized that you can read it from cover to cover OR you can run down the Table of Contents and go directly to the section which will solve an immediate problem. I think you'll like it -- should be in all bookstores or maybe even your local library.

Dear Marilynn,

I'll ask our PC guru to stop back and answer your question.

Marilyn, I agree with you that $80 is a lot of money. The Video Training tapes advertised in the back of computer magazines run from $29.95 to $39.95.

I've seen Win95 tutorial books with enclosed CD-ROM disc that would provide more interaction between you and the tutorial than any video tape can provide.

But as Barnum is reputed to have said "There's a sucker born every minute!" I haven't seen the TV Infomercial and maybe what you saw is worth every cent of $80 -- but not to me!

CALLING ALL BOOK READERS!!! Come to the BOOK CLUB ONLINE in the BOOKS AND LITERATURE folder. GINNY has the list posted of the five books she has chosen and we have to vote which one we want to read first.

Hello, Guru's:









Here's a question I have long been wanting the answer to:





There's a silly little game intended for children that comes with the Microsoft Windows 95, called "Chip's Challenge." This little child can only get to level 12, and no further. I have asked, for the sake of my "children," and no one seems to know if there is some manual out there.





Can't find one in the computer stores. It's not a game most play, just my YOUNG child. The most frustrating thing I've ever done.





Anybody know??









Ginny

Ginny - I've posted this in other Books... folders. It MAY have something you can use:

A link for all kinds of reading material:

Genreflecting

Welcome aboard, Ginny. I've copied your message #11 and posted it in the Windows 95 discussion under Need Help for your PC folder?

You'll probably get better responses sooner there than here. I now have two gurus checking the Win 95 discussion and yours is the first real problem posted there.

Jeanne:

Thanks for that site. I went into the woman's list who has read 10,000 books, and reads a book a day. I thought I read a lot!

She has mentioned a new author I never heard of, with elderly sleuths, and I will try to get his books.



Thanks.



John:

I have nothing but computer problems. Hope I can find out this answer; was just at the Computer Problems site, will go to the Windows 95 site.

Thanks,



Ginny

Okay folks I've just bought my umpteenth book on How to Design and Post your own web site.

The name of this great new book is "Home Sweet Home Page". It is written by Robin Williams with Dave Mark and published by Peachpit Press. The subtitle is An Easy Guide to Creating Your Own Family Website. The price is $14.95.

I like the way Robin writes and have a few of her other books, so I am sure this will just add to my knowledge. It is not a computer specific book, and is applicable to any computer.

Maybe this book will be the way I get my Home Page on the go Fran. Thanks for the information. I'm going to check it out now at the Business Depot.

Has anyone tried "HTML For Dummies"? I got a lot out of the "Mac for Dummies" when I first got started and wonder if this is as helpful. when it comes to HTML I really am a Dummy (and a charter member of the DUH Club).

Dear Jeanne,

Yes, I too am a fan of the Dummies Books. I also have the HTML for Dummies book, and another one called Creating Web Pages for Dummies. They are all very good. That is not my problem. My problem is that I want a really good looking page after procrastinating this long, and right now the page looks all a jumble. I'll try and work on it tomorrow.

Attention: John R Dye

Help! How do I find the Windows95, discussion? Also, I need help with Email; I keep getting Juke mail, which I don't even understand, except that they are angry with me.

Thanks in advance.

Diana Van Vleet

Hi, Folks, I just came on line and noticed some posts asking about "how to" develop home pages. This may be repeat of some else's entry but here goes. If you are using netscape, you can go to the netscape sit and download Netscape Gold 3.0. This program builds a home page in three different ways. From Scratch, from templates, or the easy way of The Wizard. Many images are available to jazz it up. You don't have to know the HTML language. This is done by Gold. Hope this helps. If you need more info E-mail me at jrm@community.net

if i scan something can i go ahead and type on what i have scanned

There are sure a lot of computer books in the bookstore, but for the Mac, the absolutely best one I've found is MacWorld's Complete Mac Handbook. Also good are Netscape Navigator 6-in-1, Understanding Netscape Navigator 2.0, Photoshop 3 Bible, and The Little Mac Book. I learned how to use my computer from the Dummies series. Some of these books come with a CD, which can be very helpful.

FRAN AND OTHERS I want to put together a home page too........."have book will travel" is it really that easy ?

Looks very intimidating to me. How is your page coming Fran. Anyone else doing their own? Claire

Claire....I haven't heard of that one. If it looks intimidating to you....I am sure I would also find it so.

Pleeeeeeze don't ask me about my home page. I have started it so many times, then get distracted by something else, and keep putting it off. At this point if it isn't the greatest looking home page I am afraid to put it up since I've procrastinated so long that people expect much more than I am capable of delivering.

I have discovered one thing, for sure....It is a great idea to have a layout or design in mind before you tackle the project. Good luck with the book.

FRAN are you using Page Spinner for your home page? I just downloaded it and will have a look soon. My book says to design the page first in a paint program and then submit it to whatever. It's not the design that bothers me it's the "whatever" Claire

Dear Claire,

I am presently using a program called Claris Home Page. You can read about it at:

Claris Home page

Fran, Claire, Milly, Anne, Jim, Diana, Jeanne, Pat and whoever else frequents this folder. Looks like there a re a lot of Mac users. I had a Mac Classic (antique ) and it did everything I wanted it to do but couldn't get a modem for it. I had pagemaker and Word6 but no online or color or bells and whistles. So I bought a Compaq Presario Pentium and believe me the switch to Windows 95 was not too difficult......until I began to expect it to act like a Mac! But I am learning and have devoured all the Dummie Books. I have now arrived at the point that I know how to reinstall everything and delete all that I don't want and have gone thru the ISP wars, and THINK I have control of the basics. Now I want to learn how to make my messages on line in color and eventually a picture and graphics. Is there a good beginning book that any of you know of? Sure would appreciate any direction you point me in. Elin

Dear Elin:

I've learned a lot from the Dummies Books. There are two for HTML and I'm trying to devour them at the present so I'll be able to make my own Web Page.

I've also emailed you some directions for colour print, etc.

Pat

Pat, thanks so much. I'm on my way now to get that book. I haven't gotton your e-mail yet but I'll check later. I have changed my address recently so it depends where you got it. it is elndrew@powernet.net. Thanks again. Elin

Elin: Notice that your old e-mail address is shown in your preference file. I had sent you some information a couple of days ago via e-mail and just now resent it using the e-mail address you gave above.

Larry

Pat and Larry, I am working on it and hope to come up with something by tomorrow, at least. WOW I feel like I maybe have gotton out of preschool and am beginning Kindergarten. Claire, I sure agree that it's the "whatever" that is so confusing. Another one is "Just %$%$&% and then %&%% and you're done" HUH? Elin

Fran -- about claris. I visited their home page which has recently been redone. Some of it doesn't work yet. They no longer offer web-page1.1, but now offer web page 2 for which they expect to be paid. However, when I went to look for a price list everything crashed. It happend twice. I thinkj it's best to wait until they get their ducks in line. In the meantime there is my book.......by Lynda Weinman <designing web graphics> expensive 50 bucks but includes a cd full of pertinant share ware and demos of painter and photoshop. She does refer to the programs --ie.a palette of safe colors to use. Nice book glossy colorful and very clear, but it may already be dated since there are so many programs that do everything for you/me and all you have to do is pay for them and go get them and then pray a little. I do want to learn how from scratch though. Looks like fun. She is Mac Based...good for us. Claire

Another good program that is shareware, and probably came on the disk with the book is BB Edit Lite. At least I think that's what it is called. The full BB Edit costs money, but the other is an excellent shareware program that many of my friends have used to design great pages.

Happy New Year.....and may the New Year bring us all Home Pages we can be proud of, or just Home Pages, period. Now I am getting desperate.

Fran - We've been waiting a loooooong time!

HELP!!!!!!!!!!! I just switched providers and now have Explorer 3 to go with windows 3.11. I could use a good book to help me figure out this ____. I spent several hours at several bookstores and all I could find were those for Win. 95. I need some specifics that I can't find in tutorial, like how to clear cache, how to organize bookmarks into files. I have saved mine and can enter them as favorites. thanks, ruth

Ruth - How about the "Dummies" books? No, that's not a reflection on your intelligence - it's the name of a series of computer books.

Dear Ruth:

Here's a site for you!! It's great.

DUMMIES

Thanks gals, I already tried that. The only thing that I've found tonight and it isn't any "help" is microsoft.com, I can't believe there is no good help like the netscape handbook. Thanks to Larry, I've gotten some good tips, also John Dye has been helpful. I'm getting more comfortable and as I read tonights posts in Cafe, maybe it isn't all me, but the net. As son says " S--t happens on the net mom and computers barf. " Very eloquent for a Purdue graduate and now student of University of Denver, but he's the next best thing to a techie, and engineer. Today's e-mail was funny, he's in touch waith other SONY engineers he met at Olympics from England and Austrailia and thinks its cool to be international. Where's he been I told him all about everyone in here. Anyway thanks for thinking of me, I can't say enough how everyone is so helpful, I sure wish I could have a site to take some classes. Local hs and colleges want BIG bucks and really aren't what I want. I took one class for Srs. and she didn't finish outline at all, spent two classes showing howa to play solitaire to several that didn't know how, so they could master mouse. later from cynical ruth

Dear Ruth:

Have you signed up for any of the courses with the Spectrum Virtual University? They have courses there for beginners and I suppose if you don't like them, you can always drop out. But I believe in finishing anything I start so I'm going to give it a good try anyway!

I found it once in files and now lost it. I also lost envelope I wrote address on when at library last week!! I do that alot, I have to be more consistent in where I put things. I now have a new place to look for shoes in the morning ( under the computer, as my feet get tired and swollen, I kick them off wherever I am) I do have a footstool here, that I keep moving from desk to puter table. I'll try and register, but not tonight, its too slow to cruise around this site. later, ruth

Working as a library volunteer who recently installed a program for the public called, ever so aptly, PUBLIC ACCESS, I had a chance to put it to the test. I made a search for the so-called after-market manuals for all those new applications and programs which are issued on CDs. There are two publishers - Cybex and IDG that I had the best luck with. Once a year our volunteers are honored by having a book of their choice dedicated to them. My choice this past year - after much research - was

WINDOWS 95 SECRETS, BRIAN LIVINGSTON & DAVIS STRAUB, IDG BOOKS, 3rd edition..

I had a look at the second edition in a much larger library in Coos Bay (that's OUR big city when we get tired of all the trees...) and made inquiries if and when there might be a third ed. Sure enough, I had to wait a couple of months, but the 3rd was a winner. It's a few pages shy of Massey's "Peter the Great". I agree with the premise of the "Dummies" Books, i.e, to cure the average newbie of unfounded antipathies and fears of things "computeristic". Once these have been overcome, one needs something a bit more informative rather than "cute". I have yet to come across a question that I didn't find an answer to. It's also full of secrets and undocumented features which the authors found when they took Bill Gates' sometimes annoying brain child apart. Actually, it's what should have come with Windows 95, rather than a hyped telephone number which gets you nowhere. It sells for about $40.- and has a CD included.

Don't be shy to ask your librarian to order it to put on the shelf. You'd be surprised how these dedicated professionals welcome suggestions when it comes to making their bi-annual book orders. The same goes for computer magazines.

Just wanted to suggest that anyone looking for an HTML book to look very closely BEFORE BUYING at the HTML PUBLISHING BIBLE (an IDG book). I'm very disappointed in a $40.00 book--on HTML that includes chapters on buying and installing a modem, how to get on the Internet, how to browse sites on the Internet, etc. It seems to me that anyone brand new to the Internet is not going to buy a book on HTML, and anyone who does buy it already has a modem and is connected, etc. I didn't look closely enough before putting down my money. I sure will the next time.
...jane

SeniorNet has made arrangements with Macmillan Publishing to offer some very good discounts on computer-related books to SeniorNet members. Click here for descriptions and pricing.

To join SeniorNet, click here.

Katie

We a have winner in the Mystery Quiz and a new Quiz posted. Come by and congratulate the winner and try your hand at the new quiz.

Mystery Quiz

Joan

I just got a wonderful text book for a course I'm taking in Excel. The book is titled Learning to Use Windows Applications: Microsoft Excel 5 for Windows.

The authors are Shelly, Cashman and Quasey. It's a big 400 page + glossy colorful book. Every page a color illustration (almost) and even though it's for Excel 5 and not 7 as I have, and for 3.1 instead of Windows 95, it's really well done.

Of course, it comes with a floppy of examples, too.

Ginny

Thanks Ginny, that's just what I need. I'll check it out.

Did I make a mistake! Those "window secrets" have been staring at me for the past 2 hours. It is probably a wonderful book for people who know how to read and use it. There is also a CD in the back of it. You need to know the basics to appreciate the secrets. This thing is not for me; not now; and maybe never. All of the 942 pages.

At this time I need the Dummy books. How do you do this note pad thing? My printer has just departed for the second time and I forgot what I have done the first time around to fix it.

This is the great danger: You think it's fixed! You think it will NEVER happen again! Boy, are you STUPID!

Well, reflections on quantum mechanics. May just as well be. Helen

Let's get this area going again....

I am reading yet another HTML book. This one is called "How to Use HTML 3.2" Subtitled....The easy, full color, step by step guide. It's written by Scott Arpajian and Robert Mullen, published by ZD Press, and costs around $25. So far I think if I really pay attention it will be a big help. It is for PC's and Macs. Why don't you give it a try?

Fran - Thanks for the suggestion - the tough part for me may very well be "if I really pay attention"! First chance I get I'll check it out.

I want to tell you about Yahoo magazine. I think by the way it is also online. The full name is Yahoo Internet Life. The reason I like it soo much is because they rate the many different sites they talk about. Usually about 100 or so. AND...they have a card stock tear out page that lists all the sites mentioned, and the page they are rated on. This month they do have an article about Mary Furlong our founder, and also mention SeniorNet.

Good thing I can get back and edit....Here it is in clickable form.. Yahoo Internet Magazine!

Fran: Great! THAT is fabulous! And since we can also speak of magazines here, I've got one to recommend, it's called "Smart Computing." It's more of a basic type magazine.

Each month they take some software program and do a one page "Quick Study" they call it. You can really get "up" on some things that way. Here's a few "Quick Studies" they cover in the August issue: Lotus 1-2-3 5.0 for Windows (Customizing the Interface)...will leave off the article descriptions from the rest...only one page articles in this series...WordPerfect 6.1, Print Shop Ensemble III, Works 4.0. Word 7.0, Quattro Pro 6.0, Quicken Deluxe 5.0, PowerPoint 7, Excel 5.0...and so on. All these, every month. Chances are you'll use one of them..

Also articles included with illustrations this month are: "Installing a Hard Drive," "How a Hard Drive Stores Data," a big article on Word 7, an article on the new computers retailing for under $1,000, a Question and Answer columns of many pages, "Using the Scan Disk," "Make DOS a Switch Hitter," and on and on.

It's a good magazine.

Ginny

Fran--In a note I posted to Eddie Marie in the BC Oct.Nominations folder, you'll see a note to you thanking you for mentioning "How to Use HTML 3.2" which I just ordered from Amazon. Just wanted to post here also so you'd know this folder performs a valuable service for us netters.
--Marie

Dear Marie,

One of the best things about "How to use HTML 3.2" ....The easy full color step by step guide is that it is a large book with simple instructions on just about each page.

Hope you like it.

Fran

Well, Fran, I think I'll be going to the store soon and getting this book that you refer to.

Sounds good.

Pat

Dear Pat,

I don't think YOU need this book!!

We are so glad you and Jack are home safely.

Love, Fran

A word to the wise.....of which I obviously am not one.....

I've just gotten a new laptop with Netscape 2.0 installed. I wanted Netscape 3.0 gold so went to the bookstore where I saw lots of books dealing with Netscape 3.0 gold, and promising the program inside on the CD ROM.

When I brought it home....found out the promises were not true. What it did was connect you to the internet so you could download Netscape 3.0 gold. Well, I can do that myself from here. Just wanted to have it on a CD ROM.

Tried to return it today, and it was a no go. If the CD ROM has been opened it cannot be returned. Of course I am ready to spit. I mean it doesn't seem fair. So watch out, and be sure that you really want the book before buying and opening a book with a CD ROM inside.

Fran - Thanks for the warning. That's good advice and it's too bad we have to live by "Buyer Beware".

Dear Jeanne,

Success....Not in returning the book, but in downloading Netscape 3.0 gold which is what I use. I use AOL also, and went into their web browser, and downloaded it right to the laptop, and it is a pleasure.

I think that in spite of the CD ROM not being what I want I will read a lot of information in Netscape...Internet Starter by James that I can use. So all is not lost.

Hello, I just read through all the back posts. I have a few books to recommend that have helped me with ideas for doing my web pages.

The first is my Web page 'bible': The HTML Sourcebook. Second Edition. by Ian S. Graham.Wiley & Sons. Everything you want to know about HTML 3 is in this book. I find it very helpful.

The other two are both Netscape oriented but do provide good hints and ideas even when you do your own HTML. If you do have the Netscape Gold Editor, then these books will be great aides in making Web pages.

1. HTML Publishing for Netscape. Windows Edition. Netscape Press. by Stuart Harris and Gayle Kidder.

2. Web Publishing with Netscape for Busy People. Osborne. by Christian Crumlish and Malcolm Hughes. This one had very detailed graphics and instructions on how to do things using the editor.

In spite of the title, I too like the Dummies books. They have a way of making me laugh when I imagine someone reacting to computer snafus in the way they describe.

Hoping that the books will be of use or interest to you. Did not give prices as Canadian prices are usually much higher. Nellie.

Here's a neat URL about Computer Sites and Questions and Answers on your computer, comparisons of on-line services, etc:

Connect Time

These are just super nice people, and it's a good site.

Those are really good books Nellie recommended. One I've just been using is HTML for the World Wide Wed, 2nd Edition. It's got a very good index, so if you're struggling, you can bail yourself out in a jif.

Ginny

Dear Nellie,

I use the HTML book as a reference book a lot, and I thank you for mentioning it. I have tried to find the Netscape book you referred to for a Macintosh, but no luck so far. I always think the perfect HTML book is lurking right around the corner.

Do you have Office? And Excel in it? And would you like to learn or teach yourself how to use it??

I can't believe what I just did. After taking 4 Access classes and one in Excel, and STILL being unable to merge customer address tables in Access, the instructor said, "Why not put them in Excel?"

Well, I left the class a year ago, and both instructors said they'd come by and show me, but I had forgotten how to even call it up, when today I took off my shelf Using Excel for Windows 95....The Fast and Easy Way to Learn. It's a Que book, but not their normally wonderful reference, it's a "User Friendly." Anyway, in less time than it takes to write this, I had imported 4 Access Data Bases with about 12 fields, PERFECTLY into Excel!! Now all I have to do is Sort and delete duplications, and print the labels!! Wish me luck!!

The ISBN # is 0-7897-0111-1. It's like you're having a conversation, and they're answering. If you want to do Excel, check it out!!

Ginny

What a wonderful tip, Ginny! I have Excel on my computer and I don't know the first thing about it!!

I'll look out for that book.

Pat

Pat: You'd love Excel! There's nothing it can't do. Have sorted, have removed duplications (boy were there a LOT of those) now, trying valiantly to remember how to print labels in Excel....maybe the book will tell me that, too!!

Cross fingers again!

Ginny

Dear Ginny and Pat,

I use an old version of Microsoft Works for the Macintosh. I think that the spread sheet in that program is probably a poor man's version of Excel, and for my purposes it works perfectly.

I know what you mean about finding THE book to suit your purposes. It's like it's Christmas in July!!

Fran: I tell you, that Excel is a marvel. What you have to prod and program Access to do, Excel does all by itself...auto fill....it does NOT, however, print labels, but will merge with Word and do it in a flash. All the Office programs are interactional; they are supposed to work together, and they do!

I learned how to mail merge in a conversation with tech support. It's unlimited for Excel, too.

The book is just great!

Ginny

Some books are so expensive. Decided to take a look at Waldens on Friday, and lo and behold they had the Netscape book I've been looking for. I do get a discount there with a card I have, but the book was $50, and that was a shocker. I am going to see if I can get it through the library. Sometimes they do get specialized books like that from other libraries. I'll check it out.

A few weeks ago I installed the OS 8 on my Macintosh computer, and today while at Walden books bought the new Dummy's Book on OS 8. Will review it for Mac people when I've had a chance to read at least part of it.

Fran

Hi everyone,

I am a self confessed computer and mystery bookaholic and have read so many good ones and not so good ones. However after reading the Dummies Book for Photoshop 4 by Deke McClelland, I have to say this is simply the best book I have read. (He also wrote the Photoshop Bible book). I laughed so much and could not put it down, so now have bought his Dummy book for Coreldraw 6. I have found all the QUE books that I have read to be excellent and find they get you up and running in no time.

Wendy

Hi, Wendy. Is there a "Dummies" for Photo Paint? You know, we wouldn't need "Dummy" books if they could explain stuff in the manuals!

Do come on over to the Mystery Book Club! We're just in the middle of discussing Road Rage M by Ruth Rendell. Our next book will be The Twelve Deaths of Christmas by Marion Babson, and we'll chat about it on the 15th of December.

Do you like Christmas mysteries?

Ginny

Calling all NetsCape "Freaks":

I do recommend the "Hacker's Guide to Navigator", (it includes a CD-Rom ver of NetsCape Communicator 4.03 - but ONLY the Communicator Module - as I was warned by the vendor when I placed my online order). If you already have the ver of NetsCape you like -it provides "Gobs o' shortcuts, hints and 'hidden features'" - (while on-line in Navigator or Communicator - try pressing "Ctrl+Alt+F" for a small sample). The CD does include a plethora of other demos, trialWares and even some actual Client Apps.

An online sample can be found at: http://www.mods.com/hackersguide/contents.html A brief perusal will convince most any Navigator (Unix, Mac OR PC) User, this a 'steal' at only: $24.99 (+tax and $5.00 S&H)

For general info on dealing with Puters and modems (a deadly combo), I still like "The Little Online Book", by Alfred Glossbrenner - a true "Guru".

And for hardware issues, Que Publishing has a series of "Upgrading and Repairing Your PC" (with apologies to Mac Users - I'm not sure if they have one that deals with Macs, or not). My copy is a version 4 - I know for a fact there's ver. 5 floating around out there, and probably a ver 6 - check before buying (it's a bit 'pricey' at about $50.00 - but well worth it). This is the book the shops use as a reference!

I'm only just beginning to use my Publisher program - which came with my PC two years ago. Unfortunately, it's Ver 3.0, pretty antiquated I guess, and I can't find a manual for it. Does anyone out there have it and would like to sell it? I'd sure be grateful! If, so please email me conway@netw.com

Ginger, did you put a notice in the Exchange Books Wanted? I just came in here to tell anybody looking in that the Exchange now has several computer books on HTML and such, you may want to look there:

Exchange

Ginny

There are quite a few PC books and two PC programs being offered in The Book Exchange .

You might want to check them out!

Ginny

Just thought I would give a recommendation to the Que & Sybex books. Once you are past the stage where the Dummy books are helpful, I find Que & Sybex to have some really good titles.

The manuals I have from these publishers go into much detail and are great for the intermediate to advanced user.

Now, I think Terri has made a good point, and would like to get the recommendations of everyone in the header.

So let's take a survey, and see:

1. For the beginner, which are the most helpful to you: the IDG full color almost cartoon illustrations, the Dummy books (also by IDG) or the Idiot books?

2. How do you feel about the names Idiot and Dummy?

3. I agree with Terri about the QUE books. They are reference masterpieces, but they aren't much for reading straight thru. They also make Step by Step Books have any of you tried them?? I've not heard of the Sybex?

I think it's QUE who does the Setp by Step.

The HTML 2nd Edition for the WWW by Elizabeth Castro is full of color charts, and frames, and tables, and it's the one I use...they say it's a "PeachPit" book???

So it will be helpful in this spot to hear of your experiences trying to learn from these books:

Which do YOU recommend?

Ginny

I have a number of the Dummies books and I still make use of them when I need to know something I've forgotten how to do. I like their humor and the way it puts me at my ease. I don't care that much for the name but I think they are trying to put all us people who feel like real "dummies" when it comes to computers at ease with them. I know I'm pretty skilled with my computer but there are times I still feel like a computer "dummy", usually at those times I get carried away with changing things and end up with nothing working any more.

I like the QUE books for reference too. Other good books are put out by the Waite Group. I also like the reference books put out by Netscape Press.

Nellie

Nettie, I haven't seen any Netscape Press books? What are they like? Are they just for Navigator? I sure could use one for Communicator 4, tho the manuals that came with it are as big as some books. I need to know how to move all the mail in the INbox into some Storage, it doesn't do it like Netscape 3 where you could select all messages and just move them.

Ginny

Using Access 2 , a Que book, is available in The Book Exchange for the postage, book rate.

It is paperback, and huge, but if you use Access, it might be just what you need for the book rate postage.

Ginny

Ginny: the Netscape Press books are on various subjects. I have one on how to use Navigator and another on making Web pages. I'm going to have to get the one they have out for Communicator 4.04 as I downloaded that from the Web a couple of days ago and thus have no manual to look things up in. About the e-mail: I usually read and then answer and then I hit the File button at the top, at which point a list of my different mail folders pops down and I pick the one the letter should go into and that's where it goes. I haven't figured out how to do more than one at a time yet...but I will. I have a question for you: how do you know when you have new mail? Navigator 3Gold has that little envelope with the "!" popping in beside it when new mail comes in; but Communicator doesn't.

I had to come back and edit as I thought of something rather neat you can do with Communicator. I don't know if you know this already but you can make your favorite Web site a button on the third from the top button bar(at least if you have Win3.1) I put SeniorNet Roundtables link there. When you are connected to your favorite site just click on the green arrow where it says Netsite or Location and hold down the mouse button and drag it onto the toolbar which has Lookup and New&Cool folders on it. I think you can also drag the bookmark to it.

A company called Marangraphics also puts out some very nice graphical books on computer subjects.

Nellie

Nellie, well, I saw that little green drag button, but when I try to "drag " it, it sort of bends but does not drag? I don't think I have all my tool bars displaying, maybe that's the problem.

I want SeniorNet on my toolbar, too!

I don't know about the mail? As you say, there's an exclamation point in Gold and 3.0. Somewhere in the info I DID see something about it would display a green!! thing in the top toolbar if you had mail, but it's not doing it for me!

OH, the File? OH, well am getting the computer back tomorrow, one should be able to hold down Control and then select more than one and move on in? Thank you for that, I'll try it, and you'll probably hear me where you are when I delete all of them!

hahahahahahah

Ginny

Ginny and Nettie, in Communicator go to the top bar,Edit, Preferences, Mail & Groups, make sure there is a checkmark in the bottom box. "Enable sound alert when messages arrive."

You can turn toolbars off an on by going to View and clicking on Show Toolbar. They say show if they are hidden and hide if they are visible. You can drag bookmark files into your personal toolbar folder. They will then display on the toolbar if you have it turned on.

Under Communicator, up on top, there is a place to dock your your Component Bar or you can have it showing on the side. Your little green arrow will show up on the letter in that component bar when you have new mail, if you have checked the box I mentioned earlier.

I hope I haven't confused you.

Terri: Thank you so much for that! I have my speakers disconnected as there is so MUCH sound from ICQ and Eudora that it drives me wild! So I can check the box, but then somehow disable the sound in the Control Panel and I can see the little green arrow?? Am getting the computer this afternoon so can't wait to try it, I have printed out your instructions!

There is yet ANOTHER Access Step by Step book available in the Exchange today!

Ginny

Ginny, you should see the green arrow when new mail arrives. If not, I will be glad to try to help you.

Thank you Terri L for all your good hints. I do have the enable sound checked but like Ginny I don't have the sound turned on. I have the computer close to the TV and only one can have its sound on and you can guess which one. So I too depend on that little green arrow which I haven't seen yet.

If like me you are poor and can't afford all those expensive computer books the Personal Bookshelf at mpc.com(?) is a good place. You do have to register but it is free and you can borrow up to five books for 90 days. Sort of like an online library. I read those books I want to read but don't really want to buy. And if you find you really like a particular book you can purchase it. The public library is another good place for free book reading I know but ours has the most ancient and outdated computer books you've ever seen anywhere. Wish I could win the Lotto or Publisher's Clearinghouse contest because then I would donate a whole batch of good up to date computer books to them. Just thought of something maybe I could donate some of those beginner computer books I have long since outgrown.

I'd better stop...Nellie

I had to come back a moment as I was thinking about the File thing...Ginny, I mean the file button on the toolbar in the mail window and not the File on the menu bar. Thought I would make that clear. I really wouldn't want you to delete them all

OH good grief, you mean there's a difference?? I've always wondered why there are two edit buttons on the two toolbars. I have a feeling poor Terri is going to have her work cut out for her!!

Nellie, have you got a URL for that? I'd like to put it in the heading?

Ginny

Ginny: here is the URL for the Personal Bookshelf:

http://www.mcp.com/personal/

I was just reading all the problems people are having with Communicator trying to sort their bookmarks in alphabetical order. I thought I had the problem licked because all mine are so ordered but then I remembered I imported them into Communicator that way from my old Navigator. But now I'm bound and determined to find the answer to the problem.

Nellie

Right about problems with Communicator. Have y'all got version 4.05 yet? LOL. Just kidding. I found a new book---Netscape Communicator 4, by Phil James and Marc Andressen, Ventana Press, 1997, with CD. It really goes into detail about setting up mail accounts and explains the settings in Prefs etc. Plus lots of other neat helpful hints. 762 pages long, Mac and PC versions available. Price says $49.99, but our bookstore gives seniors a 20% discount, plus I found it on the "slightly damaged" table. It is well worth the price.

Thanks for that, Ann! I gave up and gave my new computer to my son, who reports no problems, so I guess that tells US where I am. Am still using Netscape 3 on this computer, which I may have mastered, but it's good to know that book exists, as it sure was frustrating!

Ginny

Found another goodie for Mac lovers---don't laugh---it's "Mac OS8 for Dummies", and it really helped me out since there isn't much help out there for OS8. Kind of hard to configure and use without a good book to help. Hmmm. Maybe they will make a supplement, OS8.1 for Dummies. I feel like such a dummy sometimes when I can't get something to work!!!

Anne - Thanks for the word about Mac OS8 for Dummies. I love the dummies books and now I'll look for this one. I'm pretty comfortable with OS8, but there's always more to learn!

Jeanne, well it's pretty basic, but there are some good tweaks and instructions in there. OS8 seems to have many unknown goodies. Maybe they will write a book about OS8.1. Ha ha. What I like is they explain every file, every command, and tell you how to tweak it so as to work more smoothly. Neat.

Hello - can anyone help me to get info on how to get the book "Microsoft Works Companion Book for Windows 95"? Appreciate any info/advice on this - send to my email address - donnbobb@msn.com

Robert Welcome to the RoundTables! My MS Works 4.5 came with the Companion Book. You could try the Microsoft online help at Microsoft Support.

I'm sending you some information about the SeniorNet RoundTables to help you register and find your way around to all of our discussions.

am having problems with my desktop publisher i have just loaded it in and it doesn't seem to be working. do i have to close the computor down after loading it, to start the program. margaret

Margaret, I have often found that you need to reboot your computer after installing new software. Sometimes it even helps if things seems to not be working correctly.

Larry

I'm a new computer user (1 week) and could use some advice as to helpful books on MS Word 97, Windows 98, and the Internet. Would appreciate suggestions as to what has worked for any of you. Thanks

Welcome to SeniorNet, Risa!!
I don't have MS Word 97 but any time I do get something new, I find the Dummies books really good. They are all available at my public library so there's no need to purchase them.

Also, any book published by the Que Publication would be excellent.

Pat

Risa,

Pat Scott is correct. I use MSWord97 and have found the Que books to be excellent, even dating back a few years when I was using WordPerfect. Just be sure you have the right book that covers everything you want. In ignorance I bought a book for Word 6 thinking it was the same as Word97 (it isn't). Some Que books combine Word97, Excel97 and other applications in one book, and they are OK, except sometimes you get a bit more detail in a single subject book. Ask for the right to return in 24 hours if it isn't right. Books-A-Million is pretty good about exchanges. All of the "Dummies" books are excellent.

I've just seen two recommendations for Windows 98 books in our local paper and wonder if any of you have tried either?

The author said that the manual that came with Windows 98 was "extremely unhelpful," so he bought these two books: Peter Norton's Complete Guide to Windows 98 by Peter Norton($29.99) and Teach Yourself Windows 98 in 24 Hours by Greg Perry ($19.99).

He says the Norton book is 644 pages and "exhaustively covers all aspects of Windows 98," and the chapter on the setup alone is "worth the price of the book."

He says that it shows you how to avoid the "Gotcha!" gremlins of Windows 98, too.

The Teach Yourself.... book takes a "lesson-driven approach, " telling you what buttons to push when... It seeems to be most helpful to those who have never used Windows 95. It assumes a "zero knowledge base," and shows illustrations of what you'll see on a computer monitor.

I'd like to know if anybody has used either of these, or if there is another you'd recommend.

To look up more on either, you can click on Bookstore on the top of your screen, hit Book Search, and type in the titles.

Ginny

I've just downloaded IE 4.01, and like it so far. I wonder if anyone has seen any books on IE 4.0 or 4.01. I probably don't need anything as most actions are transparent to the user. But I just want to be sure I'm taking advantage of all the bells and whistles.

Terri, I need some help with Communicator? Is this where you dais you'd help?

Ginny

Ginny, you know I'll help you if I can. There is also a Communicator Discussion where the really smart folks hang out.

Oh great, thanks so much, if they come smarter than you, I don't want to meet them.

OK, problem #1:

The mail thing.

The messages in the INbox are mounting up, yet I can't see any way to select all and sweep them to storage? I keep all my letters, which is why my two old Nestcapes crashed? Is there any way to do this?

and then there's the:

#2. When Communicator first started up, there was this little THING down in the.....taskbar? Right in front of the clock? It looked like a white page with a big red X over it? But then all of a sudden, it changed? And became a mailbox with a red waving flag when I got a letter? And I'd like to have that back! WHAT is it?? Nothing I do seems to bring it back. It's not showing me that green arrow when I get mail, either.

I've got Communicator 2. It's not checking the mail every 2 minutes like I told it to, and I guess the best thing to do is keep it minimized?

I appreciate whatever you can say, my Inbox is about to take over, and I have no waving flag!

Confused

Ginny, you really should download the latest version of Communicator. That sounds like a really old one you have if it is Communicator 2. I think the latest is 4.05. You can go to Edit, Preferences, Mail & Groups, check enable sound alert when messages arrive. Then go to Mail Server, more options and make sure the line is checked where you choose how often it will check for messages and a time is filled in. My version is 4.04 so the screens could be different. I still need to install the latest upgrade.

You can go to Edit, select message, all messages and then send them to the recycle bin. In my version I can create folders to file messages in. For example I keep all my BD mail forever or until my HD fills up, whichever comes first, LOL.

Now, definitely they come much smarter than me. Herb answers questions in Communicator when he is around. Now there are some real smarts.

Terri: Thanks so much, I have copied that to Wordpad and printed it out, and will follow the directions faithfully. I think you are on the right track about the newest version: Bellsouth said that same thing and that it was so old they almost couldn't advise, so I'll do what you've said about the messages, THANKS, and the check thing and then download the newest version.

Listen, you and Herb and Jim and Shirley and Larry and Pat are our bright lights here on SeniorNet, just make my day, PLUS you know a lot, too.

I'm afraid you may hear me whine in a few days if not working, and I will come over to the Communicator thing, too! I expect I'll be in over my head there, and I do appreciate your kind help.

Ginny

Well Ginny dear, if you get in much deeper you will definitely be over my head and have to go to Herb. He can hear me whining from a great distance. LOL

We have so many dear bright lights here at SN and you are one of the brightest of all.

Ginny, since you use BellSouth as your ISP you should have a current copy of their CD-Rom and if you don't call them as ask them to send it to you. On it is the latest version (at least 4.04) and it load very quickly from the CD-Rom. As Terri suggests you can download it from the Netscape site but it is a huge program and takes well over an hour to download.

Larry

Ah, is it any wonder we love Terri and Larry??

Larry, is it the CD Rom for Bellsouth or the new Nestcape? If it's the new Netscape, I'll call, as Larry knows full well I have a TIME downloading anything.

Ginny

Ginny, I sent you an e-mail with details.

Larry

I need help! Our organization bought me and co-webmistress(Extension Homemakers) Laura Lemay's WEB WORKSHOP for NETSCAPE NAVIGTOR GOLD 3. At the time I had 3.1 and so she took the CD, now that I am doing page alone and havae 95, I want the CD. Well, she can't find it. Think her hubby threw it out, he has a way of doing things like that. Called Sam's Publishing and it's out of print. Can't get CD. Will sell me newer version for $40, out of the question as we are non-profit. And I certainly don't need to buy it at those prices, as it wasn't my fault. Does anyone have the book and CD (only CD is fine) and no longer need it. Thanks

Help Help ! Recently bought a new compaq with windows 98 installed. I am trying to transfer my word files from my old computer to the new one and so far no luck... I used the word for windows 95 software to place the files on discs and the 98 software to restore on the new computer and it just doesn't work !!! Any suggestions ? I hav been using word for windows 95 for dummies and windows 98 user manual written by Jim Boyce. In this problem the instructions in the books simply do not resemble what actually happens in the computer as depicted on the screen.

One of my favorite spots to shop for software or books is Recycled Software (www.recycledsoftware.com) Still I need a book which perhaps hasn't been written yet. If I were to write it (HA) it would be called "How to Perform an Autopsy on Your PC and learn from the Experience" Has anyone seen a nice basic troubleshooting book out there that deals as much with hardware as software? I just have to know why thinks work (or don't)

Just wondering! Has anyone out there read, thought about, and used books on M. C. Escher? I find his graphics fascinating and have thought about creating in photography (if possible) a dream sequence....what fun that would be!!!! Ann

Book on "PCs for Seniors"

I am considering writing a book on "PCs for Seniors." I'd appreciate feedback from SeniorNet members on whether this is a good idea. And if so, what type of information should the book contain? Also, does anyone know of an existing book on this subject?

My first inclination is to target the book for beginners. It seems that there are plenty of books on the market that are oriented towards experienced users (albeit, not seniors). There are also quite a few books oriented towards beginners but they don't seem to cover (or cover well) the information that I would expect seniors to be looking for when they are just beginning to explore computers.

If you are willing to give me feedback on this idea, please e-mail me at segan@bellsouth.net. Since I'm not a senior, I need lots of input to make the book useful.

Thanks in advance for your help!

Great discovery! This month's Adobe Magazine Winter 1999 has an article namely Desktop Science-"Escher Sketch-An adventure in the world of tessellations"....It then shows how Escher created his art works and how one can do it also on the computer...Fascinating! It also gives some reference books for further edification...Maybe I could work up a dream sequence picture with Illustrator but I havent upgraded to 8 yet so dont know if that would make it impossible...I also found a book for $5 on dreams...The Dream Encylopedia by James R. Lewis which I have yet to delve into...(I have so many ideas and not enough time LOL)...but the dream book will help me in exploring these ideas...I wished I could interest one of you also in this Escher world! Ann

I have nothing to add to the discussion, but it is the only way I can think of for getting to the end of the folder, as "recent posts" gets me only as far as Jan 7th, and then it sticks.

The best books I have found yet about computers and the net is a site called "computer literacy" (www.clbooks.com) good source! Also Maran Books, can't remember the address right now. Good luck C.

Dave, thanks for that website. I have bookmarked it for future reference.

Larry

Go to http://maran.com/ to view the easiest books. Has anyone bought Creating Web pages Simplified? I have Windows 95 Simplified and it really made things easy. Janet

Maran is the best for simplified books. ......Dave

I like the recent posting by Andara, who said she or he posted simply to get to the more recent stuff on this board because, he or she said, clicking onto "Recent" takes him or her one only to January '99 Otherwise, by starting at the beginning one must wade through numerous repetitious postings of Fran's meant-to-be-helpful initial post & then again and again a Barnes and Noble ad every time one advances to another set of 10 or so postings, starting from 1996. Surely a better way can be offered to get to an up-to-date posting. John

McNavy/John - If you log in first, when you click on the title of the discussion you will be taken directly to any new messages posted since the last time you visited (while logged in). However, in order for the computer to know who you are and what messages are new for you you must be already logged in.

Hi again. ) Yes another question. I have a new ISP and have had to make some changes to my Mac Powerbook G3. It was pointed out to me by a teckie that i needed to clear my cache once in a while. I took down the notes as best i could while following directions to fix the problem. Of course i seem to have missed a step.

I am looking for the yellow brick road to my cache to clear it. I go to the Apple top left corner of screen and pull down the menu. Where do i go next to end up in "Advanced" and following that "cache" I'm sure that is where the wizard is hiding. )

Hi, Idris, I don't think this discussion will be much help to you, it's on the different types of computer books, you may want to post your query in the Mac discussion.

I think our computer discussions are just one of the best resources anywhere!

Ginny

Thank you Ginny i'll just pop on over.

When I started to 'check subscriptions' I got to the PC book place which I don't want. No matter what I do, I keep getting back here. The place at the bottom says 'subscribe' which I didn't, but seem to get anyway!!!Help!

Jeanlock - did you possibly subscribe to the Computers and Online Q&A folder instead of single discussions? Or are there other discussions you're going to that you haven't subscribed to? This seems to happen now and then. We've found so far that it can only be corrected by going to the main Welcome page, scrolling to the bottom, clicking on "Subscribe to All", then scrolling back to the bottom again and clicking on "Cancel All Subscriptions". Then you can go to each individual discussion to which you DO want to subscribe and click on "subscribe" in each of them.

Abika.com has some nice computer books for free download.

Here are their computer books:

http://www.abika.com/books/BDownload.asp?Keyword=Computers

This book has a great reputation among iMac users. I bought it today (wasn't aware that a second edition had come out early this year). It's for dummies too dumb for the "Dummies" books. Just about my speed, if I hurry. Author is Robin Williams, same name as the actor.

Hey Rambler... Now that you have found books... take a look at what else we offer.

http://www.seniornet.org/cgi-bin/WebX?14@@.ee6eef3

Hello All.

Just borrowed a book from the library. Not ours, they had to borrow it. Best one for me to use and learn by. If anyone out there has a copy no longer using I would like to buy and pay shipment.

It is a 8 x 12 paper back - spiral colour is white,red.blue

DDC

Learning Microsoft Office Professional

Word-Excel-PowerPoint-Access

Step-by step exercises, concepts, keystrokes and applications

Blanc/Vento/Singleton/Toliver

by DDc Publishing

I can't find it in bookstores. Must be out of print.

Jeanne

Jeanne - Just left you a message in PC Guru.

Did you try clicking on "Bookstore" at the top of this or any page? That will get you to Barnes & Noble and you can also try amazon.com, or several others.

Go to http://www.mcp.com/personal/ You can look around that site and I believe you can read the book on line, if it's there, and possibly print some pages.

Thanks. Will check out both suggestions. Would really like to find it.

Jeanne

Jeanne - Another thought, you can also post your request in the B&L "Books Wanted" discussion: http:/Spooks "---Books Wanted" 6/24/00 6:46pm

I have a book that I like for learning PSP7. It is titled Teaching Yourself Paint Shop Pro7 in 24 Hours." It is made up of 24 chapters. Each chapter is like a tutorial that takes me through different concepts. I am just learning to use this software and haven't spent much time with graphics software before so I don't know all the terms. Things are explained very well in this book.

MARJORIE..that sounds like a good book. I also saw a Dummie's book for PSP7. If I ever get the program, I'll sure need a book like either of these.

Interesting... I just picked up my PSP 7 Book (a Sam's Book)this afternoon... from Waldenbooks.. I haven't started it yet, but think I'll have to get more memory for PSP 7 ... since my PC locks up when I get into an extended graphic.

I also found a Sam's book on HTML

PAT, I think PSP7 needs around 128 mgs ram to run smoothly. That's what Jeanne Lee told me, and I saw the same recommendations on the box. I was wondering if the user's manual that comes with the program is any good.

I was given my first computer about 18 months ago, and set about accumulating computer books to teach myself how to use it.

My first book was "Windows 95 for Dummies". I loved the Dummies Books and the title fit me to a "T". I also bought "Windows 95 Simplified" IDG Books 3D Visual Series; "Teach yourself Computers and the Internet Visually" IDG Books. I thought the pictures would help to make it clearer. But.....???jury still out on that one.

When I upgraded to Windows 98, I bought "Master Windows 98 Visually, "Internet for Dummies" and "Upgrading and Fixing PC's for Dummies".

The most help of all came from "Dan Gookin Teaches Windows 98", and "Upgrading and Fixing PC's for Dummies".

I had re-formatted 3 or 4 times before I learned that lots of problems would fix themselves simply by turning off your computer and turning it on again. (No one ever told me that, and I did not see it in a manual.

There was such helpful and informative information in the questions and answers on the Computer Roundtable Discussions(READ ONLY), that I browsed 3 hours tonight. I only got to February 2l, 2000. I will certainly go back there again.

How kind you are. God Bless you.

Louweav

LOUWEAV: I think you are doing all the right things although you might be frustrated a lot. In my experience, the only way to learn about computers is by trying everything you can yourself. You won't ever forget that "lots of problems would fix themselves simply by turning off your computer and turning it on again." You have a lot of patience to read all of the previous posts in the Computer folder. Nice to have you here.

When all else fails read the directions... my motto.

Especially when you are assemblying those toys for the grandkids

I would like to find out if it is possible to get email and the internet with out Windows. I have written my own operating system based on MSDOS. I use QuickBasic compiler for my programs.

anyone have experience running linux? I am curious as to difficulty installing and running. and what distros are the best. thanks

Why don't you post your questions in the Other Operating System discussion group

I have a Mac G3 computer running on OS 9 using Microsoft Explorer to access SN. Within the past week-and-a-half or so, whenever I click on Books and Literature, my screen goes blank and freezes.

My son, who is a more knowledgable Mac owner than me, tried to test the Books and Literature link for me on HIS computer, and confirmed the identical phenomenon on his own Mac machine. I seem to have access to the SN homepage, and any other discussions that I have clicked on so far, but NOT to Books and Literature for some reason.

I sure would appreciate some help as I particularly enjoy the book discussions. Thanks a lot.

Harriet

happy: The problem seems to be with using IE 5.0 on a Mac. Versions 4.5 works fine as does Netscape on a Mac. We're not sure why the version 5.0 doesn't like the Main page of Books, but we're working this morning to try and find the "bug." If you have another browser, like Netscape on your machine, perhaps you can use that until we find the glitch.

Thanks for letting us know.

š ...jane›

Thank you much, Jane. Netscape got me through to Books just fine. I posted there to tell folks your information. I wish you luck clearing the problem. What a quick knowledgable response!

Harriet

Yes, they don't come better than our Jane, and now, Harriet, the problem has been fixed.

Could you try it again and report here with the MAC?

We are extremely fortunate here in the Books with our team members AND our valued participants of which you are one, thank you for alerting us to the problem!

Merry Christmas!

ginny

JANE AND GINNY:

YAY-Y-Y-Y!

I got right through to the main page of Books on IE 5.0 just now. What a pleasure!

Merry Christmas, and the happiest and healthiest of New Years' to you both.

Harriet

And the same to you Happy! So glad it's working well for you!

š ...jane›

YAY, Harriet and the same to you! Thank you for reporting back!

YAY!

ginny

I sorta inherited my Mac from my SIL. It has many "things" on it that I know nothing about and some "things" that I believe are used in some of the applications. My question is -- what book would any of you suggest so that I may clean everything out and start from scratch?

I'm sorta chicken about doing that -- especially since I believe in "if it ain't broke, don't fix it." Sometimes, though, I think I'd learn so much from doing just that -- starting from scratch!

MollyY

Molly, I would not use a book or even a program (Norton makes one but it's more complicated than they claim?) to clear off a computer? I know what you are saying I have had that problem twice. I found out if you can get the right technical person (in my case a guy who was retired and taught at the local tech center...found him in the phone book) they can completely erase your hard drive and install only what you want. I'm assuming you have some of the disks you need like Windows 95 or 98 or whatever and Office, etc. Or you can tell them to take off what you'd like.

I tried the eliminate slowly method myself by looking at the Add/ Remove programs and it messed up quite a bit of stuff as I got impatient and runined some stuff by dragging files in the My Computer thing.

I don't have a MAC, if I were you I would look in that discussion and my advice is to pay somebody to do it right, seriously, but they may know better than (and I know they do) I do.

Good luck!

ginny

Thanx. Think I'll stick with "if it ain't broke, don't fix it!" LOL

MollyY

PS. It works fine -- I was just hoping to learn more fundamentals.

Thanx again.

Molly: you have good intentions, but if you have not used the Mac too long... you might consider asking at the Mac store nearest you for the name of a Mac person who can reformat your hard drive... then install the O/S system that best matches the amount of ram and size of your hard disk.

You can see the size of your Ram and by going to the apple icon in the upper left corner and see "About this Mac.

Another idea is to see if there is a Mac User Group in your area... Most generally one of the members is a guru that can help you.. Most Mac gurus charge $35 - #50 pre hour in this area... but it is worth it.. Some Mac stores will do the same service.

How does $65 per hour grab you? Yeah, right. And I find that they go so fast in their explanations that only confusion remains after they leave.

Thanx for the suggestions, though. I'll think 'pon it.

MollyY

I just saw your post before mine... Here's a good site here on SN ... Macintosh Computers and Operating Systems

Marcie Schwarz "Macintosh Computers and Operating Systems" 1/31/01 4:56pm

The Little Mac Book published by Que is the one I like best.. Look for one that covers your operating system. I have an older Little Mac Book that covers System 7 which I would send you for the postage it costs. Email me your address if you are interested.

Before I start looking does anyone know of a book on "Windows ME" like for "Dummies" or any other. There was very little info that came with the HP Pavilion I just bought, I am supposed to get it all off line. I have printed many pages of the manual but it is just hard to maneuver through it.

I had bought Windows 95 and Windows 98 for dummies and wondered if anyone has written one on Windows ME yet.

Help anyone?

LOUWEAV: I have WindowsMe but haven't looked for a book. I don't find that it is that different from Windows98. I believe WindowsMe is a version of Windows98.

Louweav:

I did a search by keyword Windows ME in our own SeniorNet B&N Bookstore on the top of the page and found all these good looking books for you!

Books on Windows ME

Good luck with that, I'm glad to see Marjorie does not find it much different, that's reassuring because I had heard a rumor that it was incompatible with a lot of software, (like 98 was originally) but they have patches you can download in most all cases.

You must have a brand spanking new computer, tell us about it!

I have a new laptop and a fairly new desktop myself, both from Dell.

ginny

GINNY: I have stayed away from things that I heard weren't compatible with WindowsMe. For example, I didn't upgrade to AOL 6.0 and had to get a different version of Norton Anti-Virus. WindowsMe has a different look -- I may have my options set differently -- but behaves the same in most ways.

Louweav;

I bought the new MS book 'Step by Step' which comes with an instructional CD-ROM, but yesterday I found a new QUE manual in Barnes & Noble, priced at $40 I think, but probably a better buy than the one that I have.

Geoff.

I'd like to bring to your attention a computer book titled "Don't Be Afraid of Your PC!-2nd Edition" by Don Edrington. Mr. Edrington is a spritely 70-year-old computer nut who writes a weekly computer tips column for the North San Diego County Times. His many readers kept asking him for a book and so he wrote "Don't Be Afraid..." which is written in the same conversational style as his column. You can visit his web site at http://www.pcdon.com and I think you'll enjoy every minute. Barbara

Thanks, Barbara. I bet a lot of seniors who are new to the computer would find that book just right. I'm also a fan of the "Dummy" books...written in a style I find easy to read and follow.

It's always good to know which are the good books out there.

š ...jane›

Hi Ginny and Jane and Everyone,

I haven't been back here in several days, been busy chasing "Ask the P.C. Guru, Computer Tips, and Computer...what is the other one? they seem to be jumping around, getting Archivitis, etc.

In the meantime I found the "Windows ME for Dummies" at our local Staples Office store, and do find that there are enough differences to warrant the purchase. Plus, I find the ONLINE Manual quite awkward to meander in.

I love the ME system, and rarely have any trouble with locking up, conking out, or any of the "biggies" I had with Windows 98. Course, the new computer might have something to do with that, wouldn't you say?

But.....simple truth is....I just love computer books.

Using the E-mail address furnished by Andy Rathbone, the Author of my new book, I sent him an email. I am a "Dummy" fan, and this is my sixth "Dummy" book. They are simple and easy to understand, and fun to read as well.

Within hours I received a reply asking me for comments on the book. Sure there are some duplications of Windows 98 basics, but with my memory I have to be reminded.

He was so nice and sent me a free book, "MORE Windows ME for Dummies" and he autographed it with this note, "Hi Louise, you're no Dummy".

Now that really made my day. It came Federal Express from Andy and Tina Rathbone, and couldn't have meant more if it had come from Hemingway.

Know what I love about Seniornet(my homepage) and other Computer Sites I have found on the Internet? Everyone is so sweet and caring and generous with their help.

Ginny, thank you for your URL and I am on my way there now.

Lou

Wow! Louweave, what an upper today, first your free book, I know you feel good about that, who wouldn't! Not often you get such author response, and then what a fabulous great thought from you.

It's a pleasure to associate with such a positive individual as you are, please stick around the Books sometime, too, when not in Computers! hahahaha

You do seem to know your computer books!

ginny

Lou... Some of those Computer discussions are changing title, etc. because the person who ran them is no longer a discussion leader/Host at SN. If you look at the main page of Computers and Online Q&A, you'll find the discussions. When a discussion reaches 1000 posts or so, it is closed and a new one is started. The Computer Tips one was not doing what the discussion leader wanted...so it's been closed and John will post the tips and shortcuts in the new discussion where other messages don't get mixed in and the tips lost. There are several discussions there where they'll welcome your questions. They're just trying to make it easier for folks to find the right discussion.

š ...jane›

GINNY:

Aren't you nice!!Thank you. I do go to your "Books" discussions" several of them, favorites "Books That Light My Fire"(for new books to get from the Library" and to "Books That Have Been Made Into Movies" because of "Laurie" and all the nice people I ran into there. And I will be back. There just is not enough time in the day for me to all I want to do.

Lou

I understand, really I do. I always go to the Index and find a "General" one that fits the question I need answers to at the time.

Actually I have spent more time browing the Seniornet site than any in my two years on computer(I am a newbie). An "old newbie. It is my Homepage, matter of fact.

I am just trying right now to soak up everything I can regarding computers and that is why those discussions currently take precedent over other loves like, Reading, Cooking, Homemaking, etc.

But in addition, I am absorbing all the kind, considerate, caring vibes I am getting from those who have helped all of us on Seniornet.

Always grateful, Lou

A useful book for mature adults learning how to use their computer is:

Grown-up's Guide to Computing by Mary Furlong and Stefan B. Lipson published by Microsoft Press.

It is a step by step guide to using the Internet and computers.

Here from page 87 is a good hint, that I should follow as well:

"...Buy a spiral notebook and keep track of your computing travels and adventures, being sure to include the following information as it arises:

• Questions you can't answer
• The answers to your questions
• The steps you took to do that new cool thing
• The name of a program you are interested in learning about
• That Internet address that a friend referred you to
• The cryptic on screen message that appeared when something went wrong
• The name of the computer guru who helped you with a computer problem
• The phone number of technical support (for your computer)
• The e-mail address of a potential computer pen pal..."

Anyways for those just learning to use the Internet this can be a useful book.

There are a lot of computer books, and tutorials, online for free. I have a quite a few listed on the Computer page of my website. Windows, HTML, graphics. internet etc.

Lots of free books on other topics.

That IS a good link... Thanks, Kenny

I put KENNYM's link in the heading and removed the one for Resource Bookshelf that was no longer working.

Thanks for visiting. I still like the paper books and manuals. The first thing I do when I upgrade or buy new software is buy the book. But I like free too. Thanks Marjorie for posting my reference in this rountable.

You are welcome, KENNY.

I just heard that sometime this weekend SeniorNet will be moving to a new server with new software.

In preparation for that there will be a point at which all discussions become READ-ONLY discussions. That is so a copy can be made of what exists and transferred over to the new system.

Participants are requested to use the opportunity the READ-ONLY discussions give them to read back posts and make notes (on your own computer perhaps) of what you want to post in response everything is back to normal.

I am sure the staff is working very hard to make this as painless as possible to everyone.

ONLY THE AGED STAY PUT!!!!

LOUWEAV: I guess I am dense tonight. What do you mean "only the aged stay put"?

Marjorie, louweave must have been acknowledging reading your prior posting:

Notice

I just heard that sometime this weekend SeniorNet will be moving to a new server with new software.

And I hope that "Read Only" just applies to the Book Club, and not to Computers!

JOHN DYE: I believe READ ONLY applies to all the discussions on SeniorNet. It seems to be how they will be able to take a "snapshot" of where the discussions are when they make the transfer. I wonder when that will happen since it is now Sunday morning at 8:50am PT.

Yes, Marjorie, John Dye was right on the mark. It was just a melancholy remark saying, "Oh MY, things are always changing, and we "aged" (speaking only for myself of course)just can't keep up.

T'was meant to be funny! Failed miserably, huh? But not to worry, I would follow Senior Net anywhere.

Love you all. Lou

LOU: Lately, in particular, I seem to be missing lots of the jokes people here on SN are making. Maybe I never did get them and now am just asking. I don't know for sure. If JOHN DYE understood what you were saying, then you didn't fail at all.

John Dye sees all, hears all, tells nothing any more!

JOHN DYE: You sound like the three monkeys all rolled into one. Why?

We monkeys like to lurk!!! Nothin' going on here, am going over and look in on "Romance" books. These scary horror detective books are getting to me. John Sandford, Carol O'Connell, etc. YIKES. Need to get out my computer books and take a nap.

Lou

Hey, Marjorie, I couldn't find "Romance Books", looked all over.

Marjorie - 09:40am Apr 10, 2001 PST (#178 of 190) Discussion Leader for Romance Books -- Hearts for all

"Wherefore art thou"???

Lou

At this point we are in More Than Friends. That is the specific book that is being discussed at this time.

I have been Discussion Leader for Romance Books for 1 year. What that has meant until this time is that the participants are discussing individual books one at a time.

In the Archives you will find all of the Romance Books that have been discussed (more than just this last year). Just keep going down the list till you find titles starting "Romance:".

Soon there will be a General Romance Discussion. That is not yet ready.

Marjorie

LOU: Here is a link to More Than Friends.

Thanks for your URL on "More Than Friends" by Barbara Delinsky. Today is my day for the Library so will look for it. I Read her "The Vineyards" recently and enjoyed that one very much.

Just posted here to thank you for the URL mentioned above. Will see you in your other discussion group.

Lou