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Frequently Asked Questions
At ACK Computing, we've tried our best to create a web site that anticipates and satisfies our customers' needs. With that goal in mind, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions; note that the topics found here will change from time to time. If you do not find the answer to your question, contact us at 802 485 4352 or by e-mail at ACK@ackcomputing.com.. You might also look at our Education page for specific answers.
Yes we can help with buying a computer or putting one together that’s just right for you.
How to keep your computer clean.
Your computer has many mechanical parts that need to be kept reasonably cool and clean. If you look at the back of your computer you will find an covered (grated) opening which will typically be the vent for a fan located inside the computer. While you are back there check for an accumulation of dust bunnies and hair - you will want to clean this mess up. For safety and practical purposes we strongly suggest that the user unplug the computers power cord AND telephone or internet cord before dusting, vacuuming, or generally cleaning any parts of the computer. Static electrical shock is the biggest concern here but of course liquid and electricity don’t play well either.
For those of you who feel compelled to clean the inside of the computer, we recommend unplugging both the power source and the internet connection. You may find it necessary to unplug all the connections from some computers. Every computer maker’s case is a bit different so it might take some effort to get the case off. Once the case is off we recommend the use of canned air only - follow the instructions that come on the can! A vacuum might create static electricity, some (specialized) manufactures put a special adapter on the end of the nozzle - if you have a specially made vacuum for cleaning computers make sure to follow their instructions.
CD’s, and DVD’s should be cleaned with warm water and if really dirty very mild soap - towel dry thoroughly before use, paper will scratch both.
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We are often asked, “Where do I go for help in using my computer?” The cheapest answer is to have the user turn on their computer and hit the “F1” key at the top left side of their keyboard and explore the “Help” window that comes up.
A more detailed examination of the question will help ACK to help you. What specifically do you need help with, what do you use your computer for? Focusing on a single topic rather then trying to learn everything at once.
One of our first responses should be to help familiarize the client with Search Engines (click here for more information). Beyond using the F1 key mentioned above, a search engine can be your best guide to learning how to use your computer. Before continuing please see our suggestions for Safe Surfing - click here. From a search engine “window” the user can type in their question and receive several different answers through the internet. While this may seem confusing at first it actually mirrors real life in that no two people will answer the same question EXACTLY alike. Our first tip on using search engines is to type in only the information required as this will help keep the responses on topic. Sometimes you may want to modify your search based on the first few responses to the original question. Once you find a source for the answers to your questions you can save the web site as a favorite and go back to it as needed.
One more tip is that your friends are mostly right. It actually is possible to ”screw up” your computer but for the most part if you are careful about what you do and do not do, keep your virus protection up-to-date, and only open mail from people and organizations you know - you should have a safe time in your learning experience. Yes, you must practice! Yes, it might be frustrating but so was learning to walk you just may not remember how frustrating and now look at all the places you can go!
Much of what we are about here at ACK is education. Your computer does not have to be a mystery!
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