How to Set Up a PC
Most manufacturers have made the task of setting up a new computer quite easy. Here are a few reminders about the safest way to get your new computer up and running.
- Difficulty:
- Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Zip Drives
- Computer Keyboards
- Computer Mice
- Computer Microphones
- Computer Monitors
- Computer Speakers
- Modems
- Printers
- Surge Protectors
- Computer Desks
- Computers
- Screwdriver Sets
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1
Make sure your desk or table is near an electric outlet and a phone jack.
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2
Carefully remove equipment from cartons.
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3
Make sure you have everything that should have come in the boxes, including power cords for each piece of equipment. Each box should include a packing list.
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4
Position your equipment on your desk. If the computer is a mini-tower, it can go on the floor, as long as it has space behind it for ventilation.
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5
Plug the keyboard and mouse into the small, round PS-2 ports on the back of your computer. Plugs and ports are usually color-coded, so match colors on cables to colors on ports.
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6
Connect the monitor to the computer. The monitor port is unique; find the corresponding size and shape.
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7
Tighten hand-screws on the monitor plug.
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8
Connect a printer according to the manufacturer's instructions.
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9
Connect any other devices, such as speakers, a microphone, or an external modem or Zip drive.
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10
Plug in the modem cable that came with the computer.
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11
Plug the other end of the modem cable into the surge suppressor, if the suppressor has a connector for a modem cable, then plug second cable into wall jack.
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12
Connect power cords to each piece of equipment and plug them into surge suppressors.
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13
Turn on the surge suppressor.
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14
Turn on the monitor.
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15
Turn on all other powered devices connected to the computer.
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16
Turn on the computer last.
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17
Follow any on-screen instructions to complete the installation, or just start playing with your new toy.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Avoid installing the system on a heavily used electrical circuit.
Leave room for ventilation around vents on computer and monitor.
Keep the computer system away from magnetic fields, such as unshielded speakers or microwave ovens.
Make sure equipment is dry and at room temperature before installation.
