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 The CTSI Tech Times
Monthly Updates from Your Business's IT Department
April, 2010 - Vol 2, Issue 4 |
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| Upcoming Area Events |
4/2/10 - Good Friday
4/4/10 - Easter
4/9/10 - Wolfcreek at the Post VFW Dance, 7pm
4/10/10 - Meadow Country-Western Jamboree, 7pm
4/10/10 - Sensations on Stage, Plainview, 7pm
4/15/10 - CTSI 25th Anniversary; Client Appreciation Event, 5pm
4/15/10 - Lubbock Arts Festival, Lubbock Memorial Civic Center 10am
4/16/10 - America Sings, Cactus Theater 7:30pm
4/18/10 - Golden Fork, Lubbock Memorial Civic Center, 12pm
4/21/10 - Administrative Professionals Day
4/22/10 - Earth Day
4/30/10 - Arbor Day
5/13/10 - Lubbock Business Expo
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| Milestones |
04/06/10 - Keath Weaver has been with CTSI for 1 year.
04/13/10 - Scott Harris completed 16 years with CTSI.
04/21/10 - Michael Vaught marks 7 years at CTSI
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| From David's Desk... |
The ever-changing world of technology has a new gadget that's beginning to gain significant momentum with consumers: the "netbook." This particular device is essentially a miniature notebook computer with no DVD drive, a smaller keyboard, and a limited set of software installed. In terms of functionality, it lies somewhere between a smartphone and a laptop. Netbooks have many more features and more horsepower than smartphones, but they do not have quite the speed or memory space of a traditional laptop.
Netbooks are increasing in popularity because of many features. The size and weight of each unit allows users to carry them almost anywhere, from the college classroom to the living room. Upgrades in battery efficiency allow the user to get through the workday on a single battery charge. Furthermore, the netbooks have a similar feel to a full-sized laptop or desktop computer, eliminating the need to learn how to use a new and different device. As such, netbooks are ideal for students, real estate agents, or any business person that spends a large amount of time outside the office.
Another popular aspect of the netbook is its cost effectiveness. With prices ranging from $400-$700 for most models, the netbook is a very reasonable alternative to laptops and small desktop computers.
I've saved perhaps the best news about the netbook for last: just so you know, CTSI will be giving away 4 (four) netbooks at our 25 Year Anniversary Client Appreciation Event! More details on the event are featured below in this newsletter. It is my sincere hope that each and every client will be able to participate in this celebration. After all, CTSI would not be here today without your loyal support. See you at the event!
Until next time,
David D. Baucum
President, CTSI
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| 8 Tips to Manage Your Files Better |
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You work with documents, presentations, graphics, and other files all day--and chances are, you have a lot of them. And that means it takes time to find the documents you need. Even if it's just a couple of minutes here, and a couple of minutes there, it all adds up.
But there is a better way to stop the file clutter-by managing your files more effectively. Digital files are no different than paper files, and if you don't have a good method of organization, things get lost.
Whether you save your files on your computer's hard drive or a shared network location, these tips will help you save the time and headache of searching for files. And if you haven't already familiarized yourself with the search features in Windows 7 or Windows Vista, this is the perfect time to learn more.
1. Use Documents. For many reasons, it's smart to take advantage of the Documents feature (called Documents in Windows 7 and Windows Vista, and My Documents in Windows XP. To open Documents in Windows, click Start, and then click Documents. And discover an easy way for you to store your personal documents.
By using Documents, you will be better able to:
- Find files. Windows provides easy access to the Documents folder (and its subfolders) in many places: through the Start menu, the task pane in Windows Explorer, common File Open and File Save dialog boxes, and other places.
- Back up files. You should back up files regularly-and keeping all your files in one place helps make backup a snap.
- Keep files separate from programs. By separating document files and program files you reduce the risk of accidentally deleting your documents when you install or upgrade programs.
2. Adopt consistent methods for file and folder naming. Develop a naming scheme for the kinds of files you create most often and then stick to it.
3. Keep names short. Even though Windows enables you to use long file names, it does not necessarily mean you should. Long file names are harder to read.
Let your folder structure do some of the naming. For example, rather than creating a file called Great American Novel Chapter One First Effort, you can build a structure like:
4. Separate ongoing and completed work. To keep the Documents folder from becoming too unwieldy, use it only for files you're actively working on. As a result, you can reduce the number of files you need to search through and the amount of data you need to back up. Every month or so, move the files you're no longer working on to a different folder or location, such as a folder on your desktop, a special Archive folder, flash drive, external hard drive, or even on a CD.
5. Store like with like. Restricting folders to a single document type (or predominantly one type) allows you to take advantage of folder templates in Windows Explorer. This makes it easier for you to find files. For example, with all your graphics in a single folder, it's easy to use the Filmstrip view and slide show feature in Windows Explorer to find the right picture for your newsletter.
6. Avoid large folder structures. If you need to put so many subfolders in a folder that you can't see all of them at a glance, consider creating an alphabetic menu.
7. Use shortcuts and shortcut links instead of multiple copies. If you need to get to the same file from multiple locations, don't create copies of the file. Create shortcuts to it instead. To create a shortcut, right-click on the file and click Create Shortcut. You can drop and drag the shortcut to other locations.
8. Quickly get to the items you use every day. Jump Lists, a fun new feature in Wndows 7, are lists of recently opened items, such as files, folders, or web sites that are organized by the program that you use to open them. You can use a Jump List to open items. And you can also pin favorites to a Jump List.
View the full article from Microsoft.
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You're Invited!
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For more information and to RSVP, click here.
|
|
Tips of the Month
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| Some handy time-saving shortcuts for both beginners and experts:
 To rename a file/folder, select the file/folder, click F2, and then re-type the name.
To lock your computer if you're going to be away from it, Ctrl + L or the Windows Button + L.
To create a page break in Word, Ctrl + Enter.
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| Staff Spotlight - Dennis Quiroz |
 Dennis Quiroz, Customer Technician, provides technical assistance to clients' needs for the services team of Computer Transition Services, Inc.
Dennis grew up in Midland, Texas, just 100 miles south of Lubbock. He attended Robert E. Lee High School where he was a four year letterman on the Varsity football team, and graduated in 2005. After a short year playing football for Angelo State University, Dennis made his way to Texas Tech University.
Dennis graduated in December 2009 with a degree of Management Information Systems from the Rawls College of Business at Texas Tech University. Dennis joined CTSI December 21, 2009, and is excited about beginning his career as a member of the CTSI team.
Dennis enjoys leisurely hunting and fishing, is an avid sports fan, and enjoys spending time with friends, family, and new dog, Kaya.
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| Helen's Recipe of the Month |
Helen Burns, CTSI's Purchasing Manager, has been with the company for the past ten years. In addition to her purchasing duties, Helen serves as our unofficial party coordinator. Helen (with help from our administrative assistant, Nancy Clark) makes sure we celebrate every staff member's birthday as well as various holidays by providing a wide range of delectable treats. Without further ado, from Helen's kitchen to you!
Hummingbird Cake
2 cups sugar
3 cups flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1 1/2 cups cooking oil
3 eggs, beaten
1 tsp vanilla
1 15 1/2 oz can crushed pineapple in heavy syrup (undrained)
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup coconut
2 cups mashed ripe bananas
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Sift together the first four ingredients. Beat together the remaining ingredients and add to the dry ingredients, mixing well by hand.
Spoon into a sprayed tube or bundt pan and bake at 325 degrees for 1 1/3 hours or a 9 x 13 cake pan for 1 hour. Cool in pan before removing and icing.
Icing:
1/2 cup butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
ΒΌ cup maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla
1 box powdered sugar
Beat together butter, cream cheese, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy. Add syrup and powdered sugar and beat until well blended. Spread over cooled cake. Cake is better the second day.
Hummingbird cake is a dense, rich cake that's an Easter Sunday tradition in our home.
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The CTSI Tech Times
Monthly Updates from Your Business's IT Department
April, 2010 - Vol 2, Issue 4 |
|
| |
| Upcoming Area Events |
4/2/10 - Good Friday
4/4/10 - Easter
4/9/10 - Wolfcreek at the Post VFW Dance, 7pm
4/10/10 - Meadow Country-Western Jamboree, 7pm
4/10/10 - Sensations on Stage, Plainview, 7pm
4/15/10 - CTSI 25th Anniversary; Client Appreciation Event, 5pm
4/15/10 - Lubbock Arts Festival, Lubbock Memorial Civic Center 10am
4/16/10 - America Sings, Cactus Theater 7:30pm
4/18/10 - Golden Fork, Lubbock Memorial Civic Center, 12pm
4/21/10 - Administrative Professionals Day
4/22/10 - Earth Day
4/30/10 - Arbor Day
5/13/10 - Lubbock Business Expo
|
| Milestones |
04/06/10 - Keath Weaver has been with CTSI for 1 year.
04/13/10 - Scott Harris completed 16 years with CTSI.
04/21/10 - Michael Vaught marks 7 years at CTSI
|
|
|
| From David's Desk... |
The ever-changing world of technology has a new gadget that's beginning to gain significant momentum with consumers: the "netbook." This particular device is essentially a miniature notebook computer with no DVD drive, a smaller keyboard, and a limited set of software installed. In terms of functionality, it lies somewhere between a smartphone and a laptop. Netbooks have many more features and more horsepower than smartphones, but they do not have quite the speed or memory space of a traditional laptop.
Netbooks are increasing in popularity because of many features. The size and weight of each unit allows users to carry them almost anywhere, from the college classroom to the living room. Upgrades in battery efficiency allow the user to get through the workday on a single battery charge. Furthermore, the netbooks have a similar feel to a full-sized laptop or desktop computer, eliminating the need to learn how to use a new and different device. As such, netbooks are ideal for students, real estate agents, or any business person that spends a large amount of time outside the office.
Another popular aspect of the netbook is its cost effectiveness. With prices ranging from $400-$700 for most models, the netbook is a very reasonable alternative to laptops and small desktop computers.
I've saved perhaps the best news about the netbook for last: just so you know, CTSI will be giving away 4 (four) netbooks at our 25 Year Anniversary Client Appreciation Event! More details on the event are featured below in this newsletter. It is my sincere hope that each and every client will be able to participate in this celebration. After all, CTSI would not be here today without your loyal support. See you at the event!
Until next time,
David D. Baucum
President, CTSI
|
| 8 Tips to Manage Your Files Better |
|
You work with documents, presentations, graphics, and other files all day--and chances are, you have a lot of them. And that means it takes time to find the documents you need. Even if it's just a couple of minutes here, and a couple of minutes there, it all adds up.
But there is a better way to stop the file clutter-by managing your files more effectively. Digital files are no different than paper files, and if you don't have a good method of organization, things get lost.
Whether you save your files on your computer's hard drive or a shared network location, these tips will help you save the time and headache of searching for files. And if you haven't already familiarized yourself with the search features in Windows 7 or Windows Vista, this is the perfect time to learn more.
1. Use Documents. For many reasons, it's smart to take advantage of the Documents feature (called Documents in Windows 7 and Windows Vista, and My Documents in Windows XP. To open Documents in Windows, click Start, and then click Documents. And discover an easy way for you to store your personal documents.
By using Documents, you will be better able to:
- Find files. Windows provides easy access to the Documents folder (and its subfolders) in many places: through the Start menu, the task pane in Windows Explorer, common File Open and File Save dialog boxes, and other places.
- Back up files. You should back up files regularly-and keeping all your files in one place helps make backup a snap.
- Keep files separate from programs. By separating document files and program files you reduce the risk of accidentally deleting your documents when you install or upgrade programs.
2. Adopt consistent methods for file and folder naming. Develop a naming scheme for the kinds of files you create most often and then stick to it.
3. Keep names short. Even though Windows enables you to use long file names, it does not necessarily mean you should. Long file names are harder to read.
Let your folder structure do some of the naming. For example, rather than creating a file called Great American Novel Chapter One First Effort, you can build a structure like:
4. Separate ongoing and completed work. To keep the Documents folder from becoming too unwieldy, use it only for files you're actively working on. As a result, you can reduce the number of files you need to search through and the amount of data you need to back up. Every month or so, move the files you're no longer working on to a different folder or location, such as a folder on your desktop, a special Archive folder, flash drive, external hard drive, or even on a CD.
5. Store like with like. Restricting folders to a single document type (or predominantly one type) allows you to take advantage of folder templates in Windows Explorer. This makes it easier for you to find files. For example, with all your graphics in a single folder, it's easy to use the Filmstrip view and slide show feature in Windows Explorer to find the right picture for your newsletter.
6. Avoid large folder structures. If you need to put so many subfolders in a folder that you can't see all of them at a glance, consider creating an alphabetic menu.
7. Use shortcuts and shortcut links instead of multiple copies. If you need to get to the same file from multiple locations, don't create copies of the file. Create shortcuts to it instead. To create a shortcut, right-click on the file and click Create Shortcut. You can drop and drag the shortcut to other locations.
8. Quickly get to the items you use every day. Jump Lists, a fun new feature in Wndows 7, are lists of recently opened items, such as files, folders, or web sites that are organized by the program that you use to open them. You can use a Jump List to open items. And you can also pin favorites to a Jump List.
View the full article from Microsoft.
|
|
|
| |
|
You're Invited!
|
|
For more information and to RSVP, click here.
|
|
Tips of the Month
|
| Some handy time-saving shortcuts for both beginners and experts:
To rename a file/folder, select the file/folder, click F2, and then re-type the name.
To lock your computer if you're going to be away from it, Ctrl + L or the Windows Button + L.
To create a page break in Word, Ctrl + Enter.
|
| Staff Spotlight - Dennis Quiroz |
Dennis Quiroz, Customer Technician, provides technical assistance to clients' needs for the services team of Computer Transition Services, Inc.
Dennis grew up in Midland, Texas, just 100 miles south of Lubbock. He attended Robert E. Lee High School where he was a four year letterman on the Varsity football team, and graduated in 2005. After a short year playing football for Angelo State University, Dennis made his way to Texas Tech University.
Dennis graduated in December 2009 with a degree of Management Information Systems from the Rawls College of Business at Texas Tech University. Dennis joined CTSI December 21, 2009, and is excited about beginning his career as a member of the CTSI team.
Dennis enjoys leisurely hunting and fishing, is an avid sports fan, and enjoys spending time with friends, family, and new dog, Kaya.
|
| Helen's Recipe of the Month |
Helen Burns, CTSI's Purchasing Manager, has been with the company for the past ten years. In addition to her purchasing duties, Helen serves as our unofficial party coordinator. Helen (with help from our administrative assistant, Nancy Clark) makes sure we celebrate every staff member's birthday as well as various holidays by providing a wide range of delectable treats. Without further ado, from Helen's kitchen to you!
Hummingbird Cake
2 cups sugar
3 cups flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1 1/2 cups cooking oil
3 eggs, beaten
1 tsp vanilla
1 15 1/2 oz can crushed pineapple in heavy syrup (undrained)
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup coconut
2 cups mashed ripe bananas
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Sift together the first four ingredients. Beat together the remaining ingredients and add to the dry ingredients, mixing well by hand.
Spoon into a sprayed tube or bundt pan and bake at 325 degrees for 1 1/3 hours or a 9 x 13 cake pan for 1 hour. Cool in pan before removing and icing.
Icing:
1/2 cup butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
ΒΌ cup maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla
1 box powdered sugar
Beat together butter, cream cheese, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy. Add syrup and powdered sugar and beat until well blended. Spread over cooled cake. Cake is better the second day.
Hummingbird cake is a dense, rich cake that's an Easter Sunday tradition in our home.
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