Basic Terminology

The following are basic characteristics or components of any current computer able to access the Internet. This information will allow for easier access to technical support as well as provide a foundation to aid in troubleshooting and self-directed learning.

• OS (Operating System): There are three basic platforms in use today: Windows, Macintosh, and Linux. Each of these platforms has the following components:
• CPU (Central Processing Unit): This is the heart of the computer, or more aptly, its brain; the CPU chip does the actual data processing in the machine and determines the top speed the computer can run at. On any kind of chip, the most important information is in the numbers that should follow: 200mhz, 350mhz, 500mhz, 1ghz, and so on because CPU speed is measured in megahertz. The amount of megahertz in a CPU represents how much information the chip can process per second; higher numbers mean more information and higher speed.
• Memory: How much memory or RAM (Random Access Memory), as it is better known, does your computer have? Does it have 64mb, 128mb, or 256mb? Memory works in a similar fashion to the CPU in terms of how the numbers are interpreted - more memory equates to a faster computer (within certain limits). Knowing how much memory you have allows for a better understanding of your system and its capabilities.
• Internet/Network Connection: Do you use a modem and dial in to the Internet, or do you have a high-speed connection such as DSL or a cable modem? Do you connect to the Internet using UO services or do you have a different ISP (Internet Service Provider)?
• Software: What web browser do you use to access the Internet: Internet Explorer, Opera, Netscape Navigator, Firefox or something else? Do you have the current version and plug-ins for your browser? Some browsers work better with certain web applications. It is suggested that if you are experiencing difficulty with one browser, that you try another. The online technical coordinator can assist you with this.