Rice Lake TransAct 1.0 - Manual (Page 8)

4 Getting Started Using Windows
Basic Concepts
Microsoft Windows is a graphical software environment that
makes using the computer easier. Windows uses icons, pull-
down menus, and dialog boxes to help the user interact with the
computer. With Windows, multiple applications can run at once.
When running Windows, the computer screen becomes a desk-
top. The desktop contains programs and utilities in boxes called
windows. Windows can be arranged on the desktop to suit
individual needs. Windows can be sized and moved to anywhere
on the desktop. Windows can be minimized into an icon, or
maximized to fill the entire desktop (screen). When a window is
shrunk to an icon, Windows places the icon in the lower left
hand corner of the desktop, until it is restored to a window again.
When an application is shrunk into an icon on the desktop, the
program continues to run in memory, but does not take up space
on the desktop. In the meantime, other applications can be used.
Using the Mouse
Moving the mouse moves the pointer on the screen. The shape of
the pointer will change to reflect the kind of work you are doing.
The most common pointer shape is the arrow.
• Pointing to an object is usually only the first step in performing
a mouse routine. Point to an object by moving the tip of the
pointer on top of the object to be selected.
• Clicking or click means to press the mouse button and release it
immediately while pointing to an object. Clicking starts an action
like starting a transaction, or saving a new customer account.