One thing I will mention about that "mouse touchpad" is true at least on an old laptop I got from a friend: That one, and probably some others of similar ilk, has a very small key just below the spacebar and at the top of the touchpad area. This key is a toggle to enable/disable the mousepad. I shared Dan's problem about missing the old familiar keys we "grew up on," and I found a very easy solution: Buy a wireless keyboard. I got one at Radio Shack, and I bought another one for another laptop at OfficeMax. Look over that keyboard and make sure it has the keys you want, and you are "up and running" as you were before.
I have never tried to change the "look" of a Windows system; but I am sure I will when I move up to Windows 7 or 8. I am glad to know that such a thing can often be done without a lot of trouble. I don't like the keyboards on laptops either; I think part of the issue is that they are completely flat; but something placed under the back of the laptop to tilt it slightly might resolve that issue. We all tend to hate change; but it is here as it really has been for a long time. Nothing much stays the same. ----- Original Message ----- From: Jim Grimsby JR. To: 'Daniel Sweeney' Cc: [email protected] Sent: Saturday, January 11, 2014 11:39 AM Subject: RE: window xp/7/8 which one for you? Hi, Well when you buy a laptop you want to make sure you get a keyboard you like. Make sure it has all the features you want on it. not much you can do about this problem now because you already bought the thing. To solve your start menu problem. See my other post on this subject. Basicly it doesn't have to be a learning curve. You can get classic shel or another option to make your start screen menu look like what ever you need it to. Your office problems once again doesn't have to be a learning curve. If you don't like the ribbon don't use it. get classic menu for office or another add on to make your ribbon look like office 2003 then you have the advantages of the new software with out the learning curve if you don't want it. as for your touch pad disable it if your not using it. there should be a command to do this. check your owners manual this is usually provided in a pdf document. If not check the web sight for model of your laptop and you will find the owners manual there. My friends there really are no issues with office windows 8. All you have to do is configure it the way you like it. if you want the new look and feel go with that. If you are a user that just feels the need for speed and to be safe go with that. So far I have been able to recommend methods of updating your computers with out a learning curve. This keeps you up to date and provides you the latest safety and security while reducing your headakes. Note if anyone thought some of my other messages were hostel I am truly sorry. Was just asking a question, because I onistly don't understand the problem. I still don't because everything that has been said here is easly solveable. From: Daniel Sweeney [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Saturday, January 11, 2014 9:09 AM To: GW Info Discussion List Subject: window xp/7/8 which one for you? Hello, Thank you David for your explanation for using the systems and software you do. I am still using xp on my desktop and office 2003. I recently purchased a notebook/laptop with Windows 7 (recommended over 8 due to all the issues with 8), and Office 2010. Not only am I having problems learning the operating system, I am trying to discern the differences of a laptop (lack of a windows/context key on the right side of space bar, 6pk keys in different order and placed on top, feel of keyboard, sensitivity of touchpad among a plethora of other issues), but also trying to figure out what the heck the ribbon is and how it works. My word, this is a monumental task and requires a great deal of concentration and time to do when I do not use them at work or have any on site support (so-to-speak). I am trying to learn the accessibility features of a phone, a GPS and another device in addition to this. I long for the simplicity of my desktop and its familiarity. It is almost like a security blanket. When everyone else has to have the latest and greatest technology as soon as it is introduced, I always think I am falling further behind, but I no more have the finances, the time to try to learn more software or equipment or the desire to be part of the "data-pack". I am a personal user and not overly concerned with extreme security since I have nothing much to secure on my computer. All I want to do is to be able to be able to use the internet effectively, use my Outlook calendar and email, and my other Office programs I am familiar with. Why should I be admonished for not being always up to date? I have still heard from half the people that have Windows 8 to wait as long as I can to get it. I haven't even learned 7 yet. I DO have the latest WE update and as long as xp still runs on my computer desktop and I can use the programs I have, I see no need to update until my computer croaks or I have a reason to use the current versions - like a "job" Just my thoughts. Daniel If you reply to this message it will be delivered to the original sender only. If your reply would benefit others on the list and your message is related to GW Micro, then please consider sending your message to [email protected] so the entire list will receive it. GW-Info messages are archived at http://www.gwmicro.com/gwinfo. You can manage your list subscription at http://www.gwmicro.com/listserv.
