Concise Guide to Microsoft Windows 3.1 [antikvár]

Introduction In 1981, IBM released its first personal computer, Microsoft released MS-DOS, and the PC revolution began. Throughout the 1980s, millions of users learned to issue a variety of MS-DOS commands and to use a variety of applications. By the end of the decade, most users had a word processor, a spreadsheet, and possibly a database application they used regularly. In fact, most users were seeking an easy way to exchange information between applications—a method that would eliminate the need to end one application before looking up information stored by another. In 1990, Microsoft introduced Windows 3.0, a program designed to maximize productivity. Windows 3.0 made computers easier to use, applications easier to learn, and allowed several applications to run at the same time. And—perhaps more importantly—it provided a simple means of information exchange between applications. Windows is a graphical environment: Its menus, icons (meaningful symbols), and dialog boxes replace the often cryptic commands that MS-DOS requires. In 1992, Microsoft released Windows 3.1, which provides object links to help applications share data; TrueType fonts, which you can size to any height and print exactly as they appear on the screen; enhanced help; and even an online tutorial. Windows 3.1 brings multimedia to the PC world. If your PC has a sound board, a CD-ROM, and a MIDI device, Windows 3.1 provides you with the ability to record, edit, and play video and sounds. In addition, Windows 3.1 lets you assign specific sounds to various system events. Just as the 1980s saw the PC revolution, the 1990s are seeing the Windows revolution. How to Use This Book This book is bursting at the bindings with information you need to put Windows to use: ¦ Part I defines the elements of a window and describes how to use them with both a mouse and a keyboard. It also introduces the extensive online help feature Windows provides.