Computers, database issues, software, and Tech Tips

Troubleshooting Document Complete, begin here!

Pop-ups are separate screens that appear within the text of the current screen.  Some are annoying and unwanted, but others, like those used with our databases are required to allow search results to display correctly. Databases which used pop-ups include ArtStor, and Westlaw

Clearing cookies, files, and history

To increase speed, your browser keeps track of pages you have visited.  However, sometimes the cookie files become corrupted especially if you are spend a great deal of time surfing the web.  Remember clearing your cookies and cache is a regular part of computer maintenance.  (Instructions) Information on enabling cookies is available below.

Contextual Spell-Check in Word 2007

If you have a problem with homonyms, those words that sound alike make sure your contextual spell-check is enabled. This feature is new to Word2007 and evaluates what is written and decides if the words chosen makes sense in the context presented. (Instructions)

Creating a Data CD in Roxio Easy CD Creator 5

Information that would be considered data might be anything you would have added to a floppy in the past including word processing, images, PowerPoint, or other Office document.

Creating a Music or Audio CD in Roxio Easy CD Creator 5

Session cookies are required by many of our databases, is the most common problem when students report trouble accessing our databases and will not harm your machine. (Instructions)

Office 2007 is very different from previous versions.  Click here for selected guide to some of the most unique features., or a list of word toolbars.

Modifying security settings

Lower your browser security settings might help if you are having problems connecting to our databases.  If prompted settings can be changed permanently or for the session if you are concerned. Changes made remain unless changed.  (Instructions)

Printing and spell-check with Office 2007

If you are new to Office 2007 you might be wondering where the spell check and print keys went....
Well print has moved to the Office button and spell-check can now be found under review.

If you like shortcuts try

The other option is to add both of these features to your Quick Access Toolbar

Just click on the down arrow and select Quick Print and Spelling. Both items will then appear in your Quick Access toolbar across the top. Options are not saved when the computers are rebooted on student machines in the library so you will need to repeat the procedure each time you are in.

Saving in Office 2003 formats

If you are new to Office 2007 you might have noticed that some of the file types are different than in previous version [docx (word), xlsx (excel), accdb (access)] If you are trying to share documents with individuals that are still running Office 2003 use the save feature found under the Office button and not the disk located in the Quick Access Toolbar

Scanning pictures with the Epson Scanner

The library has a scanner for student use in the Bedford and Lowell Libraries.  The scanners are located in the reference area.  Minor modifications of images, including cropping and resizing can be accomplished in Microsoft Word 2007 available on all student computers.  You will not be able to save images on library student computers and should plan to bring along a jump drive or CD.( Instructions)
 

Scanning text Documents in the Epson Scanner

The library has a scanner available for student use in the Bedford and Lowell libraries.  Text scanning is accomplished in a program known as optical character recognition (OCR).  Although much faster than retyping a whole document be prepared to proof-read your document for errors.  Funky formatting such as tables and columns does not scan well. Instructions
 

Software on the MCC Library Computers

The library machines are windows based machines currently running XP.  All student machines have Microsoft Office 2007 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access) in addition to Outlook and Internet Explorer.  Additional software is added each term in keeping with faculty requests.  A limited number of machines in the Bedford Library have Adobe CS3 (Photoshop, Illustrator, Flash, Shockwave and Dreamweaver) , QuickBooks, and the Adobe Technical Communication Suite. 

Trusted sites

Surfing the web can cause programs, spam, viruses, and other unwanted material to be transferred to your computer unknowingly.  As a result, many individuals set up firewalls, and modify their security settings to prevent such these intrusions. Installing software from  an unknown source could be quite dangerous, but from a trusted one acceptable.  Establishing a list allows you to keep your PC more secure from unwanted downloads. (Instructions)

What is a PDF document and how do I read them?

PDF (Portable Document Formats) is a format used by the library and other businesses to share documents in a read only format with specific formatting. PDF documents are found in the library documentation, as well as articles in online databases.  The college has a link to this and other software plug-in which may be required by some of your classes. Click here for more information.

Wireless Access in the Library

Both the Bedford and Lowell campus libraries have access to the college’s wireless network.  If you need assistance configuring your PC please consult the MCC help pages.  (http://www.middlesex.mass.edu/KB/Articles/Public/293) or Using Wireless in the library helpguide.

XPS is a file type developed by Microsoft similar to PDFs which protect the formatting of a document by the author. XPS files can be created using Office 2007 using the Save As function.  These files are read-only and a viewer is available if needed.