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How is Windows 7 Different from Vista or XP?
Based on their customer feedback, Microsoft is promoting that it has simplified the PC experience by making a lot of functions easier to use, such as, better previewing on the Task Bar, instant searching for files or media and easy sharing via HomeGroup networking. They also claim improved performance by supporting 64-bit processing which is increasingly the standard in desktop PCs. In addition, Windows 7 is designed to sleep and resume faster, use up less memory and recognize USB devices faster. There are also new possibilities with media streaming and touchscreen capabilities.
The above are improvements for both the Vista and XP users. If you are already a Vista user then the improvements to Windows 7 are going to be more subtle. Vista users are likely already familiar with features like the Aero visual functions, the Start Menu organization and Search. However, if you are currently using XP, then you may require a bit of an adjustment period.
Improvements for both Vista and XP Users
• New Taskbar and System Tray
• Quick Desktop View button
• Improved Start Up, Sleep and Resume performance
• Improved power management saves memory and battery life
• Libraries to improve file access and organization
• Action Center for system maintenance, back ups, troubleshooting and more
• User Account customization of notifications
• Improved back up
• New wallpapers and themes
• Improved Gadgets
• New premium games include Chess Titans, Mahjong Titans and Inkball
• Advanced Calculator functions including saving history
• Improved networking via HomeGroups
• Passkey protection with networks
• Device Stage for recognizing USB devices faster
• Windows Mail replaced by Windows Live
Changes and improvements from Windows XP only
• New Start Icon
• Aero Snap, Shake and Peek
• Desktop icons like “Computer” and “My Documents” are removed and accessed through the Start Menu
• Larger icons and hidden icons in the Taskbar
• Quick Launch toolbar has been replaced by pinning a program to the Taskbar
• Jump Lists for easier access
• A Search Bar in the Start Up Menu
• The "Run" command is accessed through the Start Menu's Search Bar
• Faster and smoother gaming components
• Parental Controls for monitoring computer use
• Update feature that eliminates web surfing for patches
Will Windows 7 Improve My Computer's Performance?
As previously mentioned, Microsoft is promoting that Windows 7 is designed to:
• Increase Start Up and Shutdown by 20 seconds
• Go to Sleep and Resume faster
• Use up less Memory
• Pop up Search results faster
• Reconnect to your Wireless Network more quickly
• Recognize USB devices faster
This is promising news, because slow wait time appeared to be one of the chief complaints regarding Windows Vista. Windows 7 also saves time by not booting up various devices during Start Up unless they are currently being used. In other words, if you are not using a Bluetooth device at the moment then Windows 7 will not waste time by running that program in the background. It will wait until you have plugged it in.
However, performance tests of Windows 7 indicate that actual improvements vary and greatly depend on the conditions of your specific computer and the programs you are running. We will go into more detail regarding your computer's ability to run Windows 7 in future lessons
What Can You Do on Windows 7?
Aero
[pic]Sort through open windows with Aero Flip 3D
Aero is an interface that makes your visual interactions with the desktop fun and easy.
• Aero Peek makes your open windows transparent so you may see your desktop. It also allows you to peek at items in your taskbar for a thumbnail preview.
• Aero Snap is a quick way to resize your windows to make them easier to read, organize and compare.
• Aero Flip allows you to preview all your open windows from a central window or 3D view that you can flip through.
• Aero Shake allows you to take your mouse and shake only the open window you want to focus on and the rest will disappear.
Taskbar
[pic]Get immediate access with Jump List
The taskbar is now more convenient to use with larger views and easier access.
• Jump Lists allow you to right click on an icon in the taskbar and immediately access items like music, videos or web pages that you use on a regular basis.
• Pin allows you to place programs on the taskbar and rearrange the order of the icons as you wish.
• Action Center allows you to control the alerts and pop-ups you receive regarding maintenance and security.
Search
[pic]Find documents fast with the new Search
As soon as you start typing in the Search bar of the Start Menu you will instantly see a list of relevant options grouped by categories with highlighted keywords and text. This allows you to easily scan for the documents, music, pictures and email you are looking for.
What Can You Do on Windows 7? - Continued
Libraries
[pic]Access your files in Libraries
Libraries allow you to organize your files in one place so they are easy to search and access.
Windows 7 has four default Libraries for documents, music, pictures and videos, however you can customize and create you own Libraries based on your needs.
Gadgets
[pic]Select Gadgets for your Desktop
You can select or download gadgets such as a slide show, calendar or weather update to add to your Desktop. The live updates of some gadgets like weather, stocks and feed headlines are quite convenient.
Additional Things you can do in Windows 7
• Device StageWhen you plug a device into your computer such as a camera, mobile phone or flash drive, a window will open up with a menu of popular tasks, status information and options for your device.
• Windows Live EssentialsWindows Live Essentials is free software that enhances the Windows 7 experience. It replaces Windows Mail and allows you to email, instant message, edit photos, blog, etc.
• HomeGroupHomeGroup allows you to connect two or more PCs on a home network in order to easily share and access files and printers.
• Windows TouchYou can use Windows Touch with a touch-screen PC to browse and flick through the screen using your fingers with multitouch technology.
• Remote Media StreamingWith Remote Media Streaming you can access your music, pictures and videos stored on your home PC remotely using the Internet.
Exploring Windows 7
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By now, you should have a better idea of what Windows 7 is all about. Now you can start considering if upgrading to Windows 7 will be a good choice for you. In making this decision, you may want to compare your desires with what your current computer is capable of.
While Microsoft is promoting that Windows 7 can be used on older computers that does not mean all of the features will be available or work the same as they will on a new computer. For example, we have found that some of the Aero features, like Peek and 3D, do not work on one of our three-year old, 32-bit computers.
In addition, upgrading to Windows 7 from the XP operating system is more complicated then upgrading from Vista. In the next lesson, we will review the cost and requirements for running Windows 7 which are important factors in making a decision.
In the mean time, you may want to consider the following questions:
• How valuable are the new features and improvements in regards to my computer needs?
• Can I afford the upgrade and do I have the time to devote to installing and adjusting to the new operating system?
• What are the system requirements of Windows 7 and how will it perform on my computer?
• If I am in the market for a new computer, does Windows 7 meet my needs?
Windows 7 Versions and Pricing
The major upgrade versions of Windows 7 are Home Premium ($119.99), Professional ($199.99) and Ultimate ($219.99). Home Premium is the most popular version of Windows 7 and will likely suit the needs of most users. The Professional version may appeal to small to medium business owners as it has extras like Windows XP mode and networking back up features. Ultimate is the most powerful version with added security features, such as Bitlocker and the flexibility of use in 35 languages.
[pic]Major Upgrade Versions
See a more detailed chart Comparing Versions.
• You may come across a Windows 7 Starter version. This version is to be used on smaller notebook PCs and will have limited performance and features compared to Home Premium.
• There is also a Windows 7 Home Premium Family Pack ($149.99) for upgrading up to three PCs in the home.
• Full versions of the above products are more expensive, but will only be required if you are not already running Windows XP or Vista.
Windows 7 Requirements for Upgrade
In order to run Windows 7, your PC must have the following:
• 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor
• 1 gigabyte (GB) RAM (32-bit) or 2 GB RAM (64-bit)
• 16 GB available hard disk space (32-bit) or 20 GB (64-bit)
• DirectX 9 graphics device with WDDM 1.0 or higher driver
Additional System Requirements may be needed to run certain features.
Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor
Microsoft is providing a tool called the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor so customers can determine if their PC is able to run Windows 7. It is a good idea to Download the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor before upgrading. It will analyze your computer's processor, memory, storage, graphics capabilities and any other compatibility issues. If possible, it will also provide guidance for resolving issues.
Please note, you should plug in and connect all USB devices, printers, external hard drives, etc. when running the Upgrade Advisor. This will provide the best analysis of your system..
Windows Experience Index
The Windows Experience Index is another indicator of how well your computer will respond to Windows 7. The Windows Experience Index tests your system and rates it with a score between 1 and 7.9. The higher the score the better your computer's performance. Some Windows 7 features, like Aero, need a score of at least 3 to run.
1. To check your Windows Experience Index, click on the Start Menu and select Computer. The Computer window will appear.
2. Select System Properties in the button bar at the top of the screen. The System Window displays your computer's Windows Experience Index rating.
You can also see your system properties and determine if you are running on a 32-bit or 64-bit processor.
[pic]Check the Windows Experience Index
3. Select the Windows Experience Index link to view the ratings of the individual computer components that are scored. The rating is determined by the lowest subscore.
[pic]Explanation of Score
In this case, the score of 4.3 should be sufficient to experience most of the new windows features. If your system scores lower than a 3, you may miss out on some of the digital media and graphics features, including Window's Aero.
What to Consider before You Upgrade?
Once you have run the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor and reviewed your system's Windows Experience Index, you will have a better idea of how Windows 7 will perform on your computer. Just to be sure, here are a few things to consider:
• Do you have a 32-bit or 64-bit processor? The 64-bit processor can handle larger amounts of information and increase the responsiveness of the computer. Microsoft is promoting that Windows 7 can run effectively on both 32-bit and 64-bit processor computers, but in reality some features may not perform as well on the 32-bit processors.
• Will you be upgrading from XP or Vista? Windows 7 was designed to be upgraded from Vista. If you are currently using the XP operating system, then your upgrade experience may be complicated. You will have to back up your current files, programs and settings and do a custom (clean) installation. Microsoft has subtly suggested that XP users should consider getting a new PC for Windows 7. If this is not an option and you are going to do a custom (clean) installation then you may want to get help from a computer service professional.
[pic]Windows Touch Screen
• Are you interested in gaming, multimedia and Windows Touch? Microsoft has put a heavy emphasis on promoting how "new things are possible" with Windows 7. These include graphics capabilities for gaming, the multimedia features of Windows Media Player and the use of touch screen. If these digital media features are important to you, then make sure to review the Additional System Requirements before upgrading.
• Are you in the market for a new computer with Windows 7? Microsoft suggests Windows 7 will work better on a new PC, especially if you are interested in the Digital Media functions. Check out Microsoft's recommendations for Windows 7 Compatible Laptops and PCs.
• Do you currently use Windows Mail or Outlook Express? Windows Mail and Outlook Express are not available on Windows 7. You will need to replace them with Windows Live Mail or another email program.
What Kind of Upgrade do I Need?
If you are currently using the Vista OS then your upgrade experience might be quite easy. If you have XP, then upgrading will likely be more complicated. Either way, it is probably best to download and run the Windows Upgrade Advisor before proceeding.
Based on the current version of your operating system, you will need to figure out if you have to perform a simple upgrade or a custom (clean) installation. You may visit Microsoft's Upgrade Considerations to determine what type of upgrade you need and what additional information should be considered before performing the upgrade.
Even if you do not need to do the custom (clean) installation, it is probably a good idea to back up your files before upgrading.
Microsoft provides instructions for doing a custom (clean) installation. However, you may want to consider using a computer service professional if you are not comfortable with this process.
[pic]Windows Operating Systems
Once you have determined which Windows 7 version you want and what kind of upgrade you need to perform, you may go to a retail outlet or the online Microsoft Store to purchase your upgrade.
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Now that you know what it takes to upgrade, you have a better idea of whether Windows 7 is right for you. Depending on your circumstances, upgrading may be an easy or complicated process. As previously mentioned you should weigh any complications you may experience with your desire for the improvements and features that Windows 7 has to offer. Time and cost are also factors, especially if you are considering purchasing a new computer.
Installing Windows 7
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You may still be exploring Windows 7 or you may have already purchased the operating system. Either way, we are now going to look at the installation process.
In this lesson, you will review pre-installation preparation and learn how to install Windows 7 along with any accompanying devices and hardware.
Pre-Installation Preparation
There are a few things you need to check before you get started with your installation.
In Lesson 2, we discussed the considerations you needed to be aware of before upgrading to Windows 7. By now, you should have:
1. Downloaded and run the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor to assess you computer's upgrade needs
2. Determined if your computer has a 32-bit or 64-bit processor
3. Figured out important Upgrade Considerations like whether you have to perform a simple Vista upgrade or a custom (clean) installation
4. Decided upon the Windows 7 version you need
In addition, you will need to make sure you have a working internet connection upon installation, as you may be prompted to download and install security and hardware driver updates.
Microsoft also recommends that you update your antivirus programs. After updating, you should run the antivirus programs and then turn them off. Once the installation is complete, you can turn the programs back on or install new antivirus software that is compatible with Windows 7.
Windows Mail and Outlook Express are not available on Windows 7. If you are currently using these programs you will need to Import your data into Windows Live Mail or another email program after installation.
Backing Up and Transferring Your Files
Before installation, it is a good idea to back up your files, even if you are only doing a simple upgrade. This can be done by copying your files to an external source such as a CD, DVD, an external drive or a USB flash drive.
f you are doing a custom (clean) installation you will need to back up and transfer your files and settings. You will also need to gather your installation discs to reinstall any programs. If any of your programs were downloaded from the internet, then you will need to save the Set Up files for those programs to your external back up source.
Microsoft recommends using Windows Easy Transfer (WET) to back up and transfer your files and settings. A detailed tutorial on this process will be linked in the next part of this lesson. As previously mentioned, you may want to consider using a computer service professional, as performing a custom (clean) installation has the potential to become quite complicated.
[pic]Windows Easy Transfer
Do not use the File and Settings Transfer Wizard in Windows XP as it is not compatible with Windows 7.
Installation
Materials You Need to Begin
• Windows 7 installation disc or the Windows 7 installation file if purchased online
• The 25-character Windows product key (found on the disc holder or confirmation email if purchased online)
An external DVD drive will be needed for disc installation to a Netbook or PC without a DVD drive.
You should now be ready to install the Windows 7 operating system. Due to the variety of installation circumstances, we will direct you to the Microsoft tutorials for detailed instructions.
• For a simple upgrade visit Microsoft's Upgrade from Windows Vista tutorial for installation instructions.
• For a custom (clean) installation visit Microsoft's Upgrade from Windows XP tutorial for installation instructions.
Once again, you may want to use a computer service professional to perform a custom (clean) installation.
Installing Devices and Hardware
Microsoft's tutorials should have provided specific instructions for installing devices and hardware, but we would still like to point out a few key things you may need to be aware of.
Many of your devices, such as cameras and mobile phones, will be recognized by Windows 7 Device Stage and can be installed by simply plugging them into your PC. Microsoft created Device Stage to make working with devices easier. Upon plugging in, Device Stage will provide a "home page" with a menu of tasks, updates and options for compatible devices and printers. This can be quite convenient, however, not all devices and printers may be recognized. Microsoft is relying on vendors and manufacturers to make their devices compatible with Windows 7. Therefore, it may be too early to tell how well Device Stage will perform.
If you are having trouble installing hardware, go to Microsoft's Hardware Troubleshooting for instructions on Windows Update, downloading drivers, installing printers and more.
Windows 7 has a new Devices and Printers folder where you can view and access everything that is connected to your computer.
• Go to the Search bar and type Devices and Printers to locate this folder.
[pic]Devices and Printers folder
If you want to check if the hardware you may be purchasing in the future is compatible with Windows 7, go to Windows 7 Compatibility Center.
Conclusion
Depending on your circumstances, you may still need to turn on your antivirus software, transfer files, reinstall programs or import your email data. Otherwise, you should be ready to start using Windows 7.
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Desktop Features
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We would like to give you an overview of the Desktop features of Windows 7. Microsoft has added or improved upon several features, including introducing new themes, appealing graphic effects and Taskbar functions.
In this lesson, we will review the Aero features, discover the new Task Bar and learn how to personalize your Desktop
Aero Features
Aero is a visual desktop experience that combines translucent windows, appealing color and graphics effects with convenient functionality. Aero includes Snap, Peek, Shake and Flip.
Watch the video to learn how the Aero features work on the Desktop.
[pic]Watch the video (2:42). Need help?
Snap
Snap allows you to resize open windows to make reviewing and comparing easier.
[pic]Overlapping windows
[pic]Side-by-side Snap view
1. Place the mouse at the top of the window, drag to the left or right of the screen, wait for the transparent window to appear and let go.
2. Your window should Snap into place.
3. To return to the full view, Snap the window to the top of the screen.
[pic]How to Snap windows
Peek
You can view your open windows on the Taskbar by using Peek. Simply scroll the mouse over the Taskbar icons and a thumbnail preview of the open windows will appear.
[pic]Aero Peek of the Taskbar
1. Hover the mouse over the windows in Peek and the full window will appear on your screen.
2. Click on the Peek preview to open the window or click on the "X" to close the window from the Peek view.
[pic]See open window through Aero Peek
Shake
When your desktop is cluttered with open windows, you can use Shake to select a single window and close the rest.
1. Click on the top of the window you want to focus on, Shake it and the rest of the windows will disappear.
2. Simply Shake the window again and the closed windows will reappear.
[pic]Cluttered screen
[pic]Shake to clear screen
Flip
Flip and Flip 3D are two more ways you can preview your open windows.
[pic]View open windows with Aero Flip
1. Press and hold the Alt key + the Tab key to open the Flip view of your open windows.
2. While still pressing the Alt key, you can Flip through the open windows by pressing the Tab key.
3. Stop on the window you want to open and it will appear on the full screen.
[pic]Aero Flip 3D View
4. Press and hold the Windows key + the Tab key for a 3D version of Flip. (Option - To keep Flip 3D open press Control + Windows key + Tab.)
5. Use the Tab key or Arrow keys to Flip through your open windows.
Taskbar Features
Microsoft has improved the Taskbar by making it easier to view and access files and windows.
Watch the video to view the improvements to the Taskbar.
[pic]Watch the video (1:33). Need help?
The Taskbar View
When multiple windows are open in a program, the icon will look "stacked" on the Taskbar.
[pic]Stacked icons on the Taskbar
• Aero Peek will show you a thumbnail of each window when you hover the mouse over the icon on the Taskbar.
[pic]Peek at open windows from the Taskbar
• If you wish, you can change the order of the icons by clicking and dragging the icon to whatever space you desire on the Taskbar.
Pin a Program to the Taskbar
You may Pin programs to the Taskbar and access them with a single click of the mouse.
• To Pin a program, drag it to the Taskbar and release.
[pic]Drag program to Pin to the Taskbar
• To Unpin programs, simply right click on the icon and select Unpin.
[pic]Right click to Unpin programs
Access a Jump List
A Jump List is like a "mini-menu" for a program. It allows quick access to recent files, frequently viewed items, performance tasks and more. For example, you may select frequently used websites with a simple click from the Internet Explorer Jump List.
• Right click on an icon to open the program's Jump List.
[pic]Internet Explorer Jump List
More Taskbar Features
Instructions: Click on the numbers in the interactive to learn more about the additional Taskbar icons.
[pic]
Show Desktop
To Peek at the Desktop without closing windows:
1. Hover the mouse over the Show Desktop button.
[pic]Show Desktop button
2. The windows will become transparent allowing you to see the Desktop.
[pic]Show Desktop makes windows transparent
3. Click on the Show Desktop button to close the windows.
4. Click again and the windows will return.
Action Center
Older versions of Windows had pesky "pop-up" notifications that appeared whenever there was a security issue or warning regarding an action you were taking. Windows 7 allows you to customize how often you view these notifications through the Action Center. The Action Center icon in the Taskbar will allow you to view and take action on any notifications that you have received.
[pic]Action Center notifications
Personalize Your Desktop's Background and Themes
Windows 7 has some amazing new themes and backgrounds to choose from. They include vivid photography, digital artwork and Aero themes that use color and glass effects in an appealing way.
Watch the video to review themes and ideas for personalizing your desktop.
[pic]Watch the video (3:15). Need help?
Themes and Background
In the Search bar of the Start Menu, type and select Personalization.
Instructions: Click on the numbers in the interactive to learn more about the options in the Personalization pane.
[pic]
Review and select a desired theme or background. You may search online for more themes by selecting Get more themes online in My Themes.
[pic]Sample Architecture Theme
[pic]Sample Digital Animation Theme
[pic]Sample Name Brand Theme
[pic]Sample International Theme
Personalize Font Settings
You may adjust the Font Settings and Cleartype on your Desktop based on your preferences.
Change Font
1. From the Search bar in the Start Menu, type and select Fonts.
2. Select the Font you desire from the Fonts pane.
[pic]Sample Font selections
To change font size
1. Adjust the Font Size by selecting Change Font Size from the menu on the left of the Fonts pane.
2. Select the desired font size and click Apply.
[pic]Change font size
Please note that a larger font size may interfere with how some items are displayed on the screen.
Clear Type
You may also adjust the ClearType for your screen. ClearType helps improve the readability of text on LCD monitors and screens.
• To adjust ClearType, select Adjust ClearType text from the menu on the left of the Fonts pane and following the steps for selecting the text that appears the best to you.
[pic]ClearType sample text
Gadgets
Gadgets can be added to the Desktop based on convenience and appeal.
1. In the Search bar of the Start Menu, type and select Gadgets.
[pic]Desktop Gadgets
2. Select and drag the Gadgets you desire and place them anywhere you want on the Desktop.
You may Go online for more Gadgets .
Customizing a Gadget
Instructions: Click on the numbers in the interactive to learn more about customizing your Gadget.
[pic]
See the below options pane for an example of how you can change the face and time zone on the Clock Gadget.
[pic]Customizing the Clock Gadget
Conclusion
Now it is your turn to play. Take some time to explore the themes, customize a few Gadgets and adjust the ClearType on your screen. Practice using the Aero features and Pin your favorite programs to the Taskbar. Change your user account picture and choose a screen saver.
While we covered the major features, there are likely additional ways in which you can personalize your Desktop. If interested, open the Appearance and Personalization pane and continue to explore.
[pic]Windows 7 User Account Pictures
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