Computer Operating Systems and Maintenance Tips

Choosing an Operating System

• Stability and robustness: Choose an OS that can handle tasks efficiently without crashing. Seek advice from developers and users with similar systems.
• Memory management: Look for an OS that effectively manages primary memory and processes between main memory and the disk. Proper memory management ensures data accuracy, availability, and consistency.
• Memory leaks: Avoid OS with memory leaks, where processes request memory and don't release it, potentially causing high memory demand. Defragmentation can help regroup memory fragments.

Computer Maintenance Tips

• Always shut down your computer properly before turning off the power.
• Use a UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) for your computer.
• Regularly back up your data to external hard drives, DVD/CD-ROMs, USB drives, or memory cards.
• Run scan disk and defragmentation at least once a month.
• Never unplug peripherals from the computer while it's on.
• Ensure 300-600 MBs of free space on your C Drive for Windows XP, Vista, or Windows 7.
• Limit the number of programs that load at startup.
• Use an antivirus checker and a firewall program regularly.
• Keep track of software disks and new peripherals.
• Enable Windows updates.

System Requirements

• System requirements or software requirements specify the necessary programs and hardware for operating a program or game.
• System requirements are printed on packaging or found online.
• If your computer doesn't meet the minimum requirements, the program may not install or run.
• Computers meeting minimum but not suggested requirements may experience slow performance.
• Upgrading RAM, hard drive, or video card can help meet requirements.
• Upgrading the processor might require a new motherboard.
• If the processor doesn't meet requirements, consider getting a new computer.

Occupational Health and Safety Policies

• Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Policies aim to protect the health, safety, and welfare of all individuals in the workplace.
• Employers are legally obligated to provide a safe work environment.
• Here are examples of OHS policies:
  • Do not work alone, always have backup for emergencies.
  • Power off and unplug computers before working on them.
  • Keep liquids away from working areas to prevent electrocution and damage.
  • Use tools carefully to avoid short circuits.

Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)

• An MSDS provides information about potential hazards associated with a chemical product. It includes handling, storage, use, and emergency procedures.
• MSDSs are prepared by the supplier or manufacturer and contain more details than product labels.
• The nine categories of information on an MSDS in Canada are:
  • Product Information: identifier, manufacturer, and supplier details
  • Hazardous Ingredients
  • Physical Data
  • Fire or Explosion Hazard Data
  • Reactivity Data
  • Toxicological Properties: health effects
  • Preventive Measures
  • First Aid Measures
  • Preparation Information: responsible party and preparation date

Computer Component Proper Disposal

• Proper disposal or recycling of hazardous computer components is crucial to protect the environment.
• Organizations violating disposal regulations face fines and legal challenges.
• Batteries often contain harmful rare earth metals requiring specific disposal procedures.

Operating System Installation

• Each operating system has unique installation steps and requirements.
• General steps to install an operating system on a hard drive:
  • Purchase the operating system from a retail store or online.
  • Configure the computer to boot from the CD/DVD drive or USB flash drive.
  • The operating system installation program guides the user through the process.
  • Answer questions about basic settings such as date, time, user accounts, and automatic updates.

Explore the essential factors for selecting an operating system, such as stability, memory management, and the importance of avoiding memory leaks. Additionally, familiarize yourself with vital computer maintenance tips to ensure your system runs smoothly and efficiently.