Program Manager Contents


Introducing Program Manager
What Is Program Manager?

Groups and Program Items

Applications


Groups and Program Items
What Is Program Manager?

Groups and Program Items

Group Contents

New Groups

How You Add Groups

How You Add Items

How You Copy and Move Items

What Happens When You Delete an Item

Properties for Groups and Items

Arrangement of Windows and Icons

Applications


Applications
What Is Program Manager?

Groups and Program Items

Applications

Ways to Start Applications

When You Exit Program Manager


What Is Program Manager?

Program Manager is central to Windows. When you start Windows, the Program Manager window is open on the desktop like this:

Program Manager stays open in a window or as an application icon throughout your Windows session. When you want to exit Windows, you must do so from Program Manager.

With Program Manager you can:

Create and delete groups.

Change a group's contents.

Arrange groups and icons.

Change properties for groups and items.

Start applications.

End your Windows session.

Related Concepts


Concepts

Arrangement of Windows and Icons

Group Contents

New Groups

Properties for Groups and Items

Ways to Start Applications

When You Exit Program Manager


program item icon

Starts an application when you double-click it. Program item icons are unique to Program Manager. Windows comes with program item icons for applications you can start from the Main, Accessories, and Games groups.

You can create program item icons for other applications on your hard disk. All you have to do is provide the location and filename for the new application. You can also include the name of a document so that it opens when you choose the program item icon.


group window

Contains program item icons. Group windows are found only in Program Manager. Using groups, you can organize your applications and documents into the right combinations for the way you work.

Program Manager groups are always available either in windows or as icons at the bottom of the Program Manager workspace. They don't close like other windows. Instead, when you choose Close from the Program Manager Control menu, group windows shrink to group icons like this:


group icon

Represents group windows you have closed or minimized. Group icons all look the same. Only their names distinguish them from one another.

When you want to start an application (by double-clicking its icon), you must first restore the group icon to a window. The Main group icon opens like this:


Group Contents

Groups contain program item icons, each representing an application that you can run in Windows. You can also create program item icons that start an application and, at the same time, open a related document.

You can customize existing groups in these ways:

Add new program items.

Copy and move existing program items.

Delete program items.

Or you can create new groups of your own.

Related Concepts


Concepts

How You Add Items

How You Copy and Move Items

New Groups

What Happens When You Delete an Item


New Groups

You received three predefined groups with Windows. Click their names to learn what they contain:

Main group

Accessories group

Games group

By creating new groups in Program Manager, you can organize applications and documents to suit your way of working.

Click  [image]  to see some sample groups.

When you no longer need a group, you can delete it. Deleting a group removes its program item icons from Program Manager. The applications remain on your hard disk.

Related Procedures


Procedures

Creating Groups

Deleting Groups


Main group

The Main group contains applications that can help you configure your system, start applications, and manage your files and directories.


Accessories group

The Accessories group contains business applications and desktop accessories.


Games group

The Games group contains games you can play for fun and use to practice your Windows skills.


Suppose you produce a monthly newsletter, a report on several business units, and a weekly schedule for your division. You could create three separate groups: Report, Schedule, and Newsletter.


How You Add Groups

Although Program Manager comes with a few groups already defined, you can create your own groups to help you organize your applications and documents in a way that makes sense to you. For example, you might create a group to hold your word processor and documents for a project you are working on. You can add a new group by choosing the New command from Program Manager’s File menu.

After creating a new group, you can add the program items that you want included in the group.

Related Procedures


Click  [image]  to see an example of arranged icons.

Related Procedures


Procedures

Arranging Group Windows

Arranging Icons

Changing a Window's Size

Moving Windows, Icons, or Dialog Boxes


cascading windows

You can also use your mouse (or your keyboard and the window's Control-menu commands) to resize and move each group window individually.


tiled windows

You can also use your mouse (or your keyboard and the window's Control-menu commands) to resize and move each group window individually.


arranged icons

You can also use the Arrange and Auto Arrange commands to rearrange program item icons after manually resizing a group window.


Ways to Start Applications

Double-clicking a program item icon is the easiest and fastest way to start your application.

You can also start applications in Program Manager in these three ways:

By selecting a program item icon and choosing Open from the File menu.

By choosing the Run command from the File menu. You type the startup instructions as you would if you were starting an application from the DOS prompt.

By choosing the DOS Prompt icon and typing a command to start a non-Windows application.

When you start an application, Program Manager changes the current directory. The directory that contains the application becomes the current directory.

Application windows overlap one another as you start them. Most applications cover all or part of Program Manager when they start.

Click  [image]  to see two application windows open on the desktop.

Related Procedures


Procedures

Starting Applications from Groups

Starting Applications with the Run Command

Starting a Non-Windows Application from the DOS Prompt


You can minimize Program Manager to an icon to keep it visible on your desktop as you work with other applications.


When You Exit Program Manager

When you close Program Manager, you also exit Windows. When you do decide to quit, you'll see this dialog box:

As you work with Program Manager, you will probably change the contents and positions of group windows and icons. If you select the Save Changes check box when you exit Program Manager, Windows will save the Program Manager workspace so that it looks just the same the next time you start Windows.

Related Procedure


Program Manager Commands


File Menu Commands


Options Menu Commands


Window Menu Commands


New Command

Adds a new program item to a group or creates a new group.

When you choose New, a dialog box appears so you can indicate whether you want to create a new group or add a new program item. After you create a new group, you can add program items. You can also add program items to an existing group.

Adding more than 40 program items to a group is not recommended.

Related Procedures


Procedures

Adding Items to a Group

Creating Groups


Open Command

Starts an applicationD
Q
˜(-) to open the groupPÀ(-) to open the group&
 €¤
€F
Arranges and resizes group windows so that they all fit in the application workspace, with the workspace equally divided among them.

This command is useful when you want to see all the open group windows at the same time.

You might want to choose the Auto Arrange command before choosing Tile so that the icons are evenly distributed for the new window sizes.

Related Procedure


Arrange Icons Command

Redistributes program item icons and group icons to fit evenly in the open window.

When you add or remove program items or resize a group window, the contents sometimes need to be rearranged to be more readily visible. Also, when you change the size of the Program Manager window or add group icons, you will probably want to redistribute them to make them visible.

To arrange program item icons, you must select the group that contains them before you use this command. To arrange group icons, you must select a group icon before you choose Arrange.

Related Procedure


Group Names

Selects a group window.

The names of all the existing groups are listed at the bottom of the Window menu. You can choose a name from this list to make its window active or to restore its group icon to a window. Choosing from this list is helpful when you have enough groups that it's difficult to see them all in your Program Manager workspace.

Related Procedure


Program Manager Procedures
Working with Group Windows and Icons

Creating and Deleting Groups

Changing the Contents of a Group

Starting Applications

Exiting Program Manager (and Windows)


Working with Group Windows and Icons

Opening Group Windows

Minimizing Group Windows

Arranging Group Windows

Arranging Icons

Switching Among Group Windows

Creating and Deleting Groups

Changing the Contents of a Group

Starting Applications

Exiting Program Manager (and Windows)


Creating and Deleting Groups
Working with Group Windows and Icons

Creating and Deleting Groups

Creating Groups

Deleting Groups

Changing Group Descriptions

Changing the Contents of a Group

Starting Applications

Exiting Program Manager (and Windows)


Changing the Contents of a Group
Working with Group Windows and Icons

Creating and Deleting Groups

Changing the Contents of a Group

Adding Items to a Group

Adding Items to a Group Using File Manager

Copying and Moving Program Items

Deleting Items from Groups

Changing Item Properties

Starting Applications

Exiting Program Manager (and Windows)


Starting Applications
Working with Group Windows and Icons

Creating and Deleting Groups

Changing the Contents of a Group

Starting Applications

Starting Applications from Groups

Starting Applications with the Run Command

Starting a Non-Windows Application from the DOS Prompt

Automatically Minimizing Program Manager

Exiting Program Manager (and Windows)


Exiting Program Manager (and Windows)
Working with Group Windows and Icons

Creating and Deleting Groups

Changing the Contents of a Group

Starting Applications

Exiting Program Manager (and Windows)

Returning to Program Manager

Exiting Program Manager (and Windows)


Opening Group Windows

Before you can choose a program item, you must open its group window.

To open a group window:

Double-click the group icon.

Or choose the group name from the Window menu. The names for all your groups are listed at the bottom of the Window menu.

Related Procedure	Keyboard Procedure


Minimizing Group Windows

You can minimize a group window, but you cannot close a group window. If you choose Close from the Control menu (an action that closes any other document window), Program Manager minimizes the group window.

To minimize a group window:

Click the Minimize button.

Or select the group's Control menu. Then choose Minimize.

Related Procedure	Keyboard Procedure


Adding Items to a Group

You can add program items for applications and for documents to your Program Manager groups.

Including more than 40 program items in a group is not recommended.

To add a program item to a group:

1	Select the group window or group icon for the new item.

2	Choose New from the File menu.

3	Select Program Item and click OK.

4	Type a name for the program item icon in the Description box.

This description is optional. If you leave it blank, Program Manager names the icon for you with a suitable name. The name will appear beneath the icon in the group window.

5	Type the name of the program file in the Command Line box. (Include the extension and complete pathname for the file, if necessary.)

If you don't know the filename, use the Browse button to locate it.

Click  [image]  to see a sample Command Line entry for an application.

6	If you want to open a document when the application starts, type a space after the program's filename and type the filename of the document. (Include the extension and complete pathname for the file, if necessary.)

If you don't know the filename, use the Browse button to locate it.

Click  [image]  to see a sample Command Line entry for a document.

7	If you want to use a different icon from the one Program Manager automatically assigns, choose Change Icon (the Select Icon dialog box appears). Choose View Next to select the icon you want and then click OK.

8	Click OK.

Related Topics	Keyboard Procedure


Concept

Group Contents

Procedure

Copying and Moving Program Items


example

To add a Microsoft Excel program item from a directory named C:\EXCEL, you would type:

c:\excel\excel.exe

You don't need to type the entire pathname if the location of the program file is included in the PATH= statement of your AUTOEXEC.BAT file or if the program file is in the current directory.


example

To add an Excel spreadsheet named 91BUDGET.XLS stored in C:\ADMIN\FY9, you would type:

c:\excel\excel.exe  c:\admin\fy91\91budget.xls

If the document is in the same directory as the application, you don't have to repeat the pathname. For example, to include a spreadsheet located in the C:\EXCEL path, you would type:

c:\excel\excel.exe  house.xls


Copying and Moving Program Items

In addition to adding new items, you can duplicate existing items and move items from one Program Manager group to another.

To copy a program item:

1	Open the group window that contains the program item you want to copy.

Or open both group windows if you want to control the item's position in the destination group's window.

2	Hold down CTRL and drag the program item icon to the destination group's icon or window.

3	Release the mouse button and the CTRL key when the icon is on the destination group's icon or inside the destination group's window.

Or release the mouse button and the CTRL key when the icon is still in the source group's window to repeat the program item in the same group.

To move a program item to another group:

1	Open the group window that contains the program item you want to move.

2	Drag the program item icon to the destination group's icon or window.

3	Release the mouse button when the icon is on top of the destination group's window or icon.

Related Topics	Keyboard Procedure


Concept

Group Contents

Procedure

Adding Items to a Group Using File Manager


Adding Items to a Group Using File Manager

You can add program items to Program Manager groups by dragging applications and associated documents from File Manager directory windows.

To add a program item using File Manager:

1	Position the group icon or resize the group window so that there's room for the File Manager window next to it.

2	Start File Manager and resize the window to fit in the space you allowed.

3	Open the directory window that contains the program file or document file you want to add to Program Manager.

4	Select the program file or the document file and drag it into Program Manager.

As you drag the file, the mouse pointer turns into a black-and-white replica of the file's icon.

5	Drop the icon for the program or document into the Program Manager group window (or onto the group icon) by releasing the mouse button.

Click  [image]  to see an example.

This procedure has no keyboard equivalent.

Related Topics


Concept

Group Contents

Procedures

Adding Items to a Group

Opening Directory Windows


hint

You can use the Tile command in Task List to automatically resize and arrange the windows for File Manager and Program Manager. Make sure no other applications are open as windows if you use this method. Double-click anywhere on the desktop (or press CTRL+ESC) to open Task List.


Deleting Items from Groups

When you delete a program item from a group, you remove the program item icon from the group window in Program Manager. The program file remains on your hard disk.

To delete a program item from a group:

1	Open the group window that contains the item you want to delete.

2	Select the program item icon.

3	Choose Delete from the File menu.

4	Choose Yes to confirm the deletion.

Related Topics	Keyboard Procedure


Concept

Group Contents

Procedure

Adding Items to a Group


Changing Item Properties

You can change the description, program filename, document filename, or icon for any program item.

To change the properties of a program item:

1	Select the program item icon.

2	Choose Properties from the File menu.

3	Make the desired changes.

4	Click OK.

Click  [image]  to see an example of the Properties dialog box and the options you can change.

Related Concept	Keyboard Procedure


Starting Applications from Groups

To start an application from a group:

1	Open the Program Manager window and open the group window that contains the application's program item icon.

2	Double-click the icon.

Or select the program item icon and choose Open from the File menu.

Related Topics	Keyboard Procedure


Concept

Ways to Start Applications

Procedure

Starting Applications with the Run Command


Starting Applications with the Run Command

To start an application with the Run command:

1	Choose Run from the File menu in Program Manager.

2	Type the program filename, including the pathname and the extension if there is one.

Or type a space and the document filename (including the pathname) after the program name if you want to open a document at the same time you start the application.

3	Select the Run Minimized check box if you want the application to shrink to an icon as soon as it starts.

4	Click OK.

Related Topics	Keyboard Procedure


Concept

Ways to Start Applications

Procedure

Starting Applications from Groups


Starting a Non-Windows Application from the DOS Prompt

In addition to running non-Windows applications from Program Manager, you can also run them directly from MS-DOS. That way, you can type in MS-DOS commands just as you would if you were not running Windows.

To start the DOS Prompt and start a non-Windows application:

1	Double-click the DOS Prompt icon in Program Manager's Main Group.

2	Type the MS-DOS command to start your application.

3	To return to Windows without exiting the application, press ALT+TAB.

Or, close the application and then type exit and press ENTER to exit the DOS Prompt and return to Windows.

Related Topics	Keyboard Procedure


Concept

Ways to Start Applications

Procedure

Starting Applications from Groups


Automatically Minimizing Program Manager

You can set Program Manager to shrink to an icon whenever you start an application. That places the Program Manager icon at the bottom edge of the desktop, making it easy to find when you want to switch back to Program Manager.

To minimize Program Manager whenever you start an application:

Choose Minimize on Use from the Options menu.

Keyboard Procedure


Returning to Program Manager

To start another application from Program Manager or end your session in Windows, you must first return to Program Manager.

 $€x
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˜ˆR˜€each€That‚ÿ
You can return to
Creating and Deleting Groups

Changing the Contents of a Group

Starting Applications

Exiting Program Manager (and Windows)

Returning to Program Manager

Exiting Program Manager (and Windows)


Keyboard: Opening Group Windows

To open a group window:

Press CTRL+F6 (or CTRL+TAB) until the group icon is selected. Then press ENTER.

Or press ALT and then W to open the Window menu. Then press the number representing the group name you want.

Related Procedure	Mouse Procedure


Keyboard: Minimizing Group Windows

To minimize a group window:

1	Select the group window.

2	Press ALT and then HYPHEN (-) to open the group's Control menu.

3	Press N.

Related Procedure	Mouse Procedure


Keyboard: Arranging Group Windows

To arrange group windows:

Choose Cascade (SHIFT+F5) or Tile (SHIFT+F4).

Related Concept	Mouse Procedure


Keyboard: Arranging Icons

To arrange group icons:

1	Press CTRL+F6 (or CRTL+TAB) repeatedly until you select a group icon.

2	Press ALT and then HYPHEN (-) to open the group icon's Control menu.

3	Press M.

4	Use the ARROW keys to move the icon to a new location.

5	Press ENTER.

To arrange group icons automatically:

1	Press CTRL+F6 (or CRTL+TAB) repeatedly until you select a group icon.

2	Press ALT and then W.

3	Press A.

To arrange program item icons:

1	Press CTRL+F6 (or CTRL+TAB) repeatedly until you select the group window that contains the icons you want to arrange.

Or skip this step if you've just resized a window and want to arrange the icons.

2	Press ALT and then W.

3	Press A.

To arrange program item icons automatically:

1	Press ALT and then O.

2	Press A.

Program Manager automatically arranges the program item icons every time you resize a group. A check mark appears next to Auto Arrange on the menu to let you know it is in effect.

Related Topics	Mouse Procedure


Concept

Arrangement of Windows and Icons

Procedure

Changing the Spacing Between Icons


Keyboard: Switching Among Group Windows

To switch among group windows:

Press ALT and then W. Then type the number from the Window menu that represents the group you want.

Or press CTRL+F6 (or CTRL+TAB) until the group window is selected.

Mouse Procedure


Keyboard: Creating Groups

To create a new group:

1	Press ALT and then F.

2	Press N.

3	Press the ARROW keys to select the Program Group option and press ENTER.

4	Type a description of the group in the Description box.

5	Press ENTER.

Related Topics	Mouse Procedure


Concept

New Groups

Procedure

Adding Items to a Group


Keyboard: Deleting Groups

To delete a group:

1	Press CTRL+F6 (or CTRL+TAB) until you select the icon for the group you want to delete.

NOTE: If the group is open in a window, minimize it.

2	Press ALT and then F.

3	Press D.

4	Press Y to confirm the deletion.

Related Concept	Mouse Procedure


Keyboard: Changing Group Descriptions

To change the description of a group:

1	Press CTRL+F6 (or CTRL+TAB) until you select the icon for the group whose description you want to change.

NOTE: If the group is open in a window, minimize it.

2	Press ALT and then F.

3	Press P.

4	Type a new description in the Description box.

5	Press ENTER.

Related Concept	Mouse Procedure


Keyboard: Adding Items to a Group

To add a program item and a document to a group:

1	Press CTRL+F6 (or CTRL+TAB) repeatedly until you select the group icon or group window.

2	Press ALT and then F.

3	Press N.

4	Press the ARROW keys to select the Program Item option and press ENTER.

5	Type a description of the program item in the Description box.

6	Press TAB and type the name of the program file in the Command Line box, including the extension and complete pathname required to locate the file, if necessary.

Or press ALT+B and select the program filename. Then press ENTER.

7	Type a space after the program's filename and then type the name of the document if you want to include a document with the program item.

8	Press ALT+I if you want to select a different icon; then press ALT+N repeatedly to reach the icon you want and press ENTER.

9	Press ENTER.

Related Topics	Mouse Procedure


Concept

Group Contents

Procedure

Copying and Moving Program Items


Keyboard: Copying and Moving Program Items

To copy or move a program item to another group:

1	Press CTRL+F6 (or CTRL+TAB) until you select the group and then press ENTER to open the group window that contains the program item you want to copy.

2	Press the ARROW keys to select the program item's icon.

3	Press ALT and then F.

4	Press C to copy.

Or press M to move.

5	Type the name of the destination group.

Or press the DOWN ARROW key until you find the name.

6	Press ENTER.

Related Topics	Mouse Procedure


Concept

Group Contents

Procedure

Adding Items to a Group Using File Manager


Keyboard: Deleting Items from Groups

To delete a program item from a group:

1	Open or select the group window that contains the icon you want to delete.

2	Press the ARROW keys to select the program item icon.

3	Press ALT and then F.

4	Press D.

5	Press Y to confirm the deletion.

Related Topics	Mouse Procedure


Concept

Group Contents

Procedure

Adding Items to a Group


Keyboard: Changing Item Properties

To change the properties of a program item:

1	Press the ARROW keys to select the program item icon.

2	Press ALT and then F.

3	Press P.

4	Make the desired changes.

5	Press ENTER.

Related Concept	Mouse Procedure


Keyboard: Starting Applications from a Goup
Keyboard: Starting Applications from Groups

To start an application from a group:

1	Open or select the group window that contains the program item icon for the application you want to start.

2	Press the ARROW keys to select the program item icon.

3	Press ENTER.

Related Topics	Mouse Procedure


Concept

Ways to Start Applications

Procedure

Starting Applications with the Run Command


Keyboard: Starting Applications with the Run Command

To start an application with the Run command:

1	Press ALT and then F.

2	Press R.

3	Type the pathname of the program file, including the extension if there is one.

Or type a space and the document pathname after the program name to open a document at the same time you start the application.

4	Press TAB and then press the SPACEBAR to select Run Minimized if you want the application to shrink to an icon as soon as it starts.

5	Press ENTER.

Related Topics	Mouse Procedure


Concept

Ways to Start Applications

Procedure

Starting Applications from Groups


Keyboard: Starting a Non-Windows Application from the DOS Prompt

To start the DOS Prompt and start a non-Windows application:

1	Press the ARROW keys to select the DOS Prompt icon in the Program Manager Main Group.

2	Press ENTER.

3	Type the appropriate MS-DOS command.

4	Type exit and press ENTER to exit the DOS Prompt.

Or leave MS-DOS running and switch to Windows.

Related Topics	Mouse Procedure


Concept

Ways to Start Applications

Procedures

Starting Applications from Groups

Switching Among Application Windows


group icon

Represents a group.

Double-click a group icon to open it.


window border

The outside edge of a window.

Drag the window border to change the size of the window.


application window

The main window for an application, in this case the Program Manager window. The Program Manager application window contains group windows.


application icon

Represents a running application. An application icon appears after you minimize an application.

Double-click an application icon to restore it to a window.


desktop

The background on which windows, icons, and dialog boxes appear.

Double-click anywhere on the desktop to start Task List.


Windows Glossary


Windows Glossary - A
A

386 enhanced mode

active

active printer

animation

application

application icon

application window

arrow keys

associate

AUTOEXEC.BAT


Windows Glossary - B
B

<< button

>> button

Back button

base-level synthesizer

batch file

baud rate

bitmap

branch

browse

byte


Windows Glossary - C
C

cascading menu	complementary color

CD-ROM	compound device

channel	CONFIG.SYS

check box	Contents button

choose	Control menu

Clipboard	Control-menu box

close	conventional memory

collapse	cutout

command

command button

command line


Windows Glossary - D
D

data bits	Directory Tree window

default button	directory window

default printer	disk-drive icon

desktop	display box

desktop pattern	document

destination directory	document file

device contention	document window

device driver	DOS

dialog box	drag

directory path	drop-down list box

Directory Tree


Windows Glossary - E
E

error-checking

expand

expanded memory

extended memory

extended synthesizer

extension


Windows Glossary - F
F

file

file information line

flow control

font

font size

format

full-screen application


Windows Glossary - G
G

General MIDI Mode standard

group

group icon

group window


Windows Glossary - H
H

History button

hotspot

hue

HyperGuide button bar


Windows Glossary - I
I

icon

insertion point

International MIDI Association


Windows Glossary - J
J

No defined terms.


Windows Glossary - K
K

keymaps

keyword

kilobyte


Windows Glossary - L
L

list box

local printer

local queue

luminosity


Windows Glossary - M
M

maximize	MIDI Mapper

Maximize button	MIDI sequencer

Media Control Interface	MIDI Manufacturer's Association (MMA)

memory	minimize

menu	Minimize button

menu bar	movie file

menu command	MSCDEX

menu name	multimedia extensions

menu title	Multimedia PC

MIDI	multitasking

MIDI file


Windows Glossary - N
N

network printer

network queue

network server

non-Windows application


Windows Glossary - O
O

open

option button


Windows Glossary - P
P

parity	print option

palette	printer-driver file

patch	printer font

patchmaps	printer queue information line

pathname	program file

picture elements	program information file (PIF)

pixels	program item

playlist	program item icon

pointer

port


Windows Glossary - Q
Q

No defined terms.


Windows Glossary - R
R

RGB components

read-only

real mode

Restore button

root directory


Windows Glossary - S
S

sample	serial port

saturation	shortcut key

scaled font size	shrink

screen font	simple device

screen saver	solid color

scroll arrow	source directory

scroll bar	spin box

scroll box	standard mode

Search button	status bar

select	stop bits

selection cursor	synthesizer


Windows Glossary - T
T

Task List

text box

text file

title

title bar

topic

track


Windows Glossary - U
U

Up button


Windows Glossary - V
V

vector font

virtual memory

volume label


Windows Glossary - W
W

waveform

WAVE format

wildcard characters

window

window border

Windows application

wrap


Windows Glossary - X
X

No defined terms.


Windows Glossary - Y
Y

No defined terms.


Windows Glossary - Z
Z

No defined terms.


386 enhanced mode, defined
386 enhanced mode

Provides access to the virtual memory capabilities of the Intel 80386 processor. With virtual memory capabilities, Windows applications can use more memory than is physically available. Enhanced mode also allows for multitasking of non-Windows applications.


active, defined
active

Describes the selected window or icon that you are currently working with. Windows always applies the next keystroke or command you choose to the active window. If a window is active, it appears in front of all other windows on the desktop, and its title bar changes color to differentiate it visually from other windows. If an icon is made active, its Control menu appears.

Inactive is the opposite of active and describes windows or icons on the desktop that are not selected.


active printer, defined
active printer

An installed printer that has been assigned to a printer port using Setup or Control Panel. More than one printer can be set up to work on a single port, but only one can be active, since only one printer can be physically connected to the port at a time.

An inactive printer is an installed printer that is not currently connected to the printer port.


animation

The display of a series of graphic images, simulating motion. You can play animation files (for example, files with the.MMM extension) with the Media Player accessory. Animations are also called movies.


application, defined
application

A computer program used for a particular kind of work, such as word processing. This term is often used interchangeably with "program."


application icon, defined
application icon

An icon that represents an application that is running.


application window, defined
application window

The main window for an application. It contains the application's menu bar and main workspace. An application window may contain multiple document windows.


ARROW keys, defined
arrow keys

The four arrow keys on your computer keyboard. These keys move the cursor or pointer on your screen to locations you choose. Each arrow key moves the cursor or pointer in the direction of the arrow on the key. Each arrow key is named for the direction in which arrow points: UP ARROW, DOWN ARROW, LEFT ARROW, and RIGHT ARROW.


associate, defined
associate

To assign files that have the same extension to a program. When you choose a file with the specified extension, the associated application runs with the file loaded.


AUTOEXEC.BAT, defined
AUTOEXEC.BAT

Batch file that lists MS-DOS commands. MS-DOS automatically carries out the commands in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file when you turn on your computer. The file is located in the root directory of your first hard disk, which is usually drive C.

Typically, an AUTOEXEC.BAT file starts memory-resident utilities such as a network and sets up environment variables that are used later by applications. In addition, your AUTOEXEC.BAT file might set your MS-DOS prompt or start pop-up programs such as Borland's SideKick.


<< button, defined
<< button

Displays the previous topic in a series of topics, until you reach the first topic in the series. Then the button is dimmed. Use this button when you want to backtrack through topics the way they are organized in HyperGuide.


>> button, defined
>> button

Displays the next topic in a series of topics, until you reach the last topic in the series. Then the button is dimmed. Use this button to move from topic to topic in the recommended order.


Back button, defined
Back button

Displays the last topic you viewed. HyperGuide moves back one topic at a time, in the order in which you viewed them.


base-level synthesizer, defined
base-level synthesizer

One of the two types of synthesizers accommodated by Windows.

MIDI files authored for Windows include two versions of a song: one version for base-level synthesizers and another version for extended synthesizers. The distinctions between base-level and extended synthesizers are based on the number of instruments and notes the synthesizer can play.


batch file, defined
batch file

A file that runs a sequence, or "batch," of commands when you type its filename. All filenames of batch files end with the extension .BAT, even though you don't have to type this extension to run the batch file.


baud rate, defined
baud rate

Signalling speed measured by the number of signals per second.


bitmap, defined
bitmap

An image stored as an array of bits.


branch, defined
branch

A segment of the Directory Tree, representing a directory and any subdirectories it contains.


browse, defined
browse

To look through files and directories. In some dialog boxes, the Browse button shows a list of files and directories from which you can choose.


byte, defined
byte

The amount of memory space (normally 8 bits) that a computer needs to represent a single character or word.


cascading menu, defined
cascading menu

A menu that opens from a command on another menu.


CD-ROM

Compact Disc-Read Only Memory. An optical data-storage technology that allows large quantities of data (such as animations, images, music, and sound) to be stored on a compact disc similar to discs used by the music industry.


channel

MIDI uses channels to send messages to individual devices within a MIDI setup. There are 16 MIDI channel numbers. Devices in a MIDI setup can be directed to respond only to messages marked with a channel number specific to the device.


check box, defined
check box

A small square box that appears in dialog boxes and can be selected or cleared. When the check box is selected, an X appears in the box.


choose, defined
choose

To use key combinations or your mouse to carry out a command in Windows. You often choose a command after you have selected an item or made it active.


Clipboard, defined
Clipboard

A temporary storage area in memory, used to transfer information. You can cut or copy information onto the Clipboard and then paste it into another document or application.


close, defined
close

To reduce a document window or application window to an icon or, in some cases, to remove it from the desktop. You close a window by double-clicking the Control-menu box or choosing the Close command from the Control menu. When closing an application window, you can choose to save or abandon changes to the current document before you close it.


collapse, defined
collapse

To hide a level of directory information in the Directory Tree window. When you first start File Manager, all directories but the root directory are collapsed.


command, defined
command

A word or phrase, usually found in a menu, that you choose to carry out an action.


command button, defined
command button

A button in a dialog box that carries out or cancels the selected action. Two common command buttons are OK and Cancel. The button that carries out the action will often have a label that describes it (for example, Open, Create, Install). Another dialog box appears when you choose a command followed by ellipses.


command line, defined
command line

Information given to MS-DOS that specifies a command and all the pertinent information to carry it out. For example, to start Windows, you type win at the MS-DOS prompt.


complementary color, defined
complementary color

The color exactly opposite a color on the RGB color wheel. For example, the complementary color of blue is yellow.


compound device, defined
compound device

Devices, such as the waveform audio driver, that have an associated file and require a filename specification when opened.


CONFIG.SYS, defined
CONFIG.SYS

A file that defines device drivers and specifies your MS-DOS configuration. For example, a typical CONFIG.SYS file might specify the location of the MS-DOS file COMMAND.COM, define an extended memory manager, and specify how many files an application can have open at once. MS-DOS runs the commands in the CONFIG.SYS file each time you turn on your computer. Your CONFIG.SYS file is located in the root directory of your first hard disk, which is usually drive C.


Contents button, defined
Contents button

Displays the HyperGuide contents.


Control menu, defined
Control menu

The menu in the upper-left corner of a window. The Control menu appears on every application that runs in a window and on some non-Windows applications. Document windows, icons, and some dialog boxes also have Control menus.

Control menu commands move, change the size of, and close windows. You can also switch to Task List by using the Control menu. For non-Windows applications, Control menu commands transfer information and perform other functions, depending on the application.


Control-menu box, defined
Control-menu box

The box located in the upper-left corner of a window. Clicking the Control-menu box opens the Control menu for the window.


conventional memory, defined
conventional memory

The first 640K of memory that MS-DOS uses to run applications. Most computers have at least 256K of conventional memory and can accommodate up to 640K of conventional memory.


cutout, defined
cutout

A portion of a Paintbrush drawing you select with the Scissors or Pick tool.


data bits, defined
data bits

The bits in each package of data sent between two computers during telecommunication. Most characters are transmitted in 7 or 8 data bits.


default button, defined
default button

The command button in some dialog boxes that is automatically selected or chosen by Windows as the most logical or safest choice. The default button has a bold border, indicating that it will be chosen if you press ENTER. You can override a default button by choosing Cancel or another command button.


default printer, defined
default printer

The printer that Windows applications automatically use when you choose the Print command. You can have only one default printer, which must also be the active printer on the port. The printer you use most often should be made the default printer.


desktop, defined
desktop

The background of your screen, on which windows, icons, and dialog boxes appear.


chosen


expanded memory, defined
expanded memory

Memory in addition to conventional memory that is available to applications. It is allocated in 16K blocks. Windows makes use of expanded memory only if the /r switch is used at startup. Windows running in 386 enhanced mode simulates expanded memory for the applications that need it. Windows running in standard mode or 386 enhanced mode allows applications to use expanded memory, but does not use expanded memory itself in managing applications.


extended memory, defined
extended memory

Memory in addition to conventional memory that is not readily accessible to MS-DOS or MS-DOS applications. Extended memory cannot be used on 8086 and 8088 computers. Windows running in standard mode or 386 enhanced mode uses extended memory to manage and run applications.


extended synthesizer, defined
extended synthesizer

One of the two types of synthesizers accommodated by Windows.

MIDI files authored for Windows include two versions of a song: one version for base-level synthesizers and another version for extended synthesizers. The distinctions between base-level and extended synthesizers are based on the number of instruments and notes the synthesizer can play.


extension, defined
extension

Part of a file or directory name that appears after a period and provides additional information. It usually indicates the type of file or directory. For example, program files have default extensions of .COM or .EXE .

Many applications include a default extension automatically when you save a file the first time. For example, Notepad adds a .TXT extension to all filenames unless you specify otherwise.


file, defined
file

A document or application that has been given a name. All documents are stored as files in Wiindows.


file information line, defined
file information line

Information specific to each file in a print queue. The information can include these details:

The file's position in the queue or a printer icon if the file is printing.

The title of the print job assigned by the application (if your network software supports this).

What percentage of the file has printed so far.

The size of the file in kilobytes (if the Print File Size command on the View menu is selected).

The time and date you sent the file to Print Manager (if the Time/Date Sent command on the View menu is selected).

If you are connected to a network printer, the printer queue information line shows the network server connection. Any detailed information the network can provide appears in the message box at the upper-right corner of the Print Manager window. Networks can provide varying degrees of detailed information.


flow control, defined
flow control

The method for controlling the flow of information.


font, defined
font

A graphic design applied to all numerals, symbols, and characters in the alphabet. A font usually comes in different sizes and provides different styles, such as bold, italic, and underlining for emphasizing text.


font size, defined
font size

The height of a printed character, measured in points. One inch equals 72 points. For example, 12-point Helv is 12 points high.

The font and font size you use determine the amount of text that fits on one page.


format, defined
format

(1) The appearance of text on the pages of a document. (2) To prepare a disk so it can hold information. Formatting a disk erases all information that was previously on it.


full-screen application, defined
full-screen application

A non-Windows application that uses the entire screen--rather than a window--to run in the Windows environment.


General MIDI Mode Standard, defined
General MIDI Mode standard

A MIDI specification controlled by the MIDI Manufacturers Association (MMA). The purpose of this specification is to enable MIDI file authors to create files that sound the same across a variety of different synthesizers.


group, defined
group

A collection of applications within Program Manager. Grouping your applications makes them easier to find.


group icon, defined
group icon

A group window you have reduced to an icon in Program Manager.


group window, defined
group window

A window that displays the items in a group within Program Manager. These items can be applications, files associated with applications, or a combination of both.


History button, defined
History button

Displays a list of the HyperGuide topics you have viewed. Use this button to revisit any of the last 40 HyperGuide topics you have viewed. The most recent topic appears first.


hotspot

Text, graphics, or parts of graphics that provide links to other HyperGuide topics or more information about the current topic.

Whether text or graphics, the pointer changes to the shape of a hand whenever it is over a hotspot. If you click a hotspot that is linked to another topic, that topic will appear in the HyperGuide window. If the hotspot is linked to more information, HyperGuide displays the information in a popup window on top of the HyperGuide window.


hue, defined
hue

The position of a color along the color spectrum.


Help button bar, defined
HyperGuide button bar

Contains the HyperGuide buttons you use to move among topics and contents screens. It is located near the top of the HyperGuide window.


icon, defined
icon

A graphic representation of a disk drive, directory, group, application, document, and so on. You can restore an application icon to a window when you want to use the application.


insertion point, defined
insertion point

The place where text will be inserted when you type.The insertion point usually appears as a flashing vertical bar in an application's window or in a dialog box. The text you type appears to the left of the insertion point, which moves to the right as you type.


International MIDI Association (IMA)

The non-profit MIDI organization that circulates information about the MIDI specification.


keymaps, defined
keymaps

Percussion instruments are key-based--each note plays a different percussion instrument. Keymaps translate MIDI key values to ensure the proper percussion instruments are used to play MIDI files. All MIDI files for Windows are authored using standard key assignments based on the General MIDI Mode standard.


keyword, defined
keyword

Words in the HyperGuide Search dialog box that are associated with topics. Each application's documentation has its own keyword list, including the glossary words in HyperGuide. You select from the list of keywords or type a keyword to see the list of topics associated with that keyword.


kilobyte, defined
kilobyte

The measurement used for the size of a computer's memory, where 1 kilobyte (K) = 1,024 bytes.


list box, defined
list box

A box within a dialog box that lists available choices--for example, the list of all available files in a directory. If all the choices don't fit in the box, there will be a vertical scroll bar to the right of the list box. In some list boxes, you can select more than one item.


local printer, defined
local printer

A printer that is directly connected to your printer by a cable.


local queue, defined
local queue

Lists the files that you directed to any active printer connected to your computer. The computer and printers are connected locally by a cable.

When Print Manager starts printing on a local printer, its icon appears at the bottom of your screen. If you restore the icon to a window, you see the print queue for any active printer connected to your computer. You can use the Print Manager window to check the status of files in the print queue or to interrupt or cancel a print job.


luminosity, defined
luminosity

The brightness of the color on a scale from black to white.


maximize, defined
maximize

To enlarge a window to its maximum size by using the Maximize button or the Maximize command.


Maximize button, defined
Maximize button

The small button at the upper-right corner of a window that contains an Up arrow. Mouse users can click the Maximize button to enlarge a window to its maximum size. Keyboard users can use the Maximize command on the Control menu.


Media Control Interface, defined
Media Control Interface (MCI)

A standard control interface for multimedia devices and files. MCI allows a multimedia application to easily control a variety of multimedia devices and files.


memory, defined
memory

The space in a computer where information is stored while you are working with it. Most PCs have a small amount of read-only memory (ROM), containing the built-in programs that start the operation of the computer when it is turned on, and a large amount of random-access memory (RAM) for users' programs and data.


menu, defined
menu

A list of available commands in an application window. Menu names appear in the menu bar near the top of the window. The Control menu, represented by the Control-menu box at the left end of the title bar, is common to all Windows applications. You use a command on a menu by selecting the menu name, then choosing the command you want.


menu bar, defined
menu bar

The horizontal bar containing the names of an application's menus. It appears just under the title bar.


menu command, defined
menu command

A word or phrase in a menu that you choose to carry out an action, such as copying a file.


menu name, defined
menu name

The name for a particular menu that appears in the menu bar and opens a menu when you choose it.


menu title, defined
menu title

A word or phrase in the menu bar that identifies a group of commands. Selecting the menu title causes the title to be highlighted and its menu of commands to appear below it.


MIDI

Musical Instrument Digital Interface. MIDI sets a communications standard for transferring data between musical instruments and associated devices.


MIDI file

A file format for storing MIDI songs. In Windows, MIDI files have a .MID filename extension.


MIDI Mapper

A Control Panel option that lets you create and edit MIDI setup maps. Windows uses these maps to translate and redirect MIDI data.


MIDI Sequencer

Software that creates or plays songs stored as MIDI files. When a sequencer plays MIDI files, it sends MIDI data from the file to a MIDI synthesizer that produces the sounds. Windows provides a MIDI sequencer to play MIDI files.


MIDI Manufacturer's Association (MMA)

A collective organization composed of MIDI instrument manufacturers and MIDI software companies. The MMA works with the MIDI Standards Committee to maintain the MIDI specification.


minimize, defined
minimize

To reduce a window to an icon using the Minimize button or the Minimize command. The document or application remains open (or running), and can be the active application or document.


Minimize button, defined
Minimize button

The small button at the upper-right corner of a window that contains a Down arrow. Mouse users can click the Minimize button to reduce a window to an icon. Keyboard users can use the Minimize command on the Control menu.


movie file

A multimedia data file (for example, a file with the .MMM extension). You can play movie files with the Media Player accessory. Movie files are also called animations.


MSCDEX

Microsoft Compact Disc Extensions. MSCDEX is software that makes CD-ROM drives appear to DOS as network drives. You must have MSCDEX installed on your computer for the CD-ROM drive to work.


multimedia extensions

Additional features added to Windows version 3.0 that enable your computer to run animations, play sound and MIDI files, and display high-quality images.


Multimedia PC

Multimedia personal computer. A multimedia computer satisfies a minimum set of hardware/software requirements necessary for multimedia computing. The requirements include:

An 80286/386/486 microprocessor running at 10MHz or faster

2MB or more of RAM

30MB or larger hard disk

VGA display

A digital audio subsystem

A CD-ROM drive

Systems software compatible with Microsoft Windows version 3.0 with multimedia extensions


multitasking, defined
multitasking

The ability of a single computer to perform several tasks simultaneously.

Multitasking makes it possible to print one document while editing another, or to perform lengthy computations while you work on something else.


network printer, defined
network printer

A printer that is accessible to your computer only through a network.


network queue, defined
network queue

Lists the files on the network server if you are using a network printer.


network server, defined
network server

A computer on a network that provides a particular service to other computers. For example, a disk server manages a large file server, and a print server manages a printer.


non-Windows application, defined
non-Windows application

An application that was not designed to run in Windows. Generally, non-Windows applications do not conform to Windows user-interface standards.


open, defined
open

To display the contents of a directory or file in a window, or to enlarge an icon to a window.


option button, defined
option button

A small round button that appears in a dialog box and is used to select an option. Within a group of related option buttons, you can select only one button.


palette

Defines the colors used in a bitmap image. Every device independent bitmap (DIB) has an associated color palette.


parity, defined
parity,

RGB components

The amount of each of the three primary colors--red, green, and blue--present in a color. Every color and pattern is made by varying the three primary colors. This is true even in monochrome (black and white) mode. For instance, white is made by mixing together 255 parts of red, 255 parts of green, and 255 parts of blue. Black, on the other hand, is 0 red, 0 green, and 0 blue.


read-only, defined
read-only

Describes a file or CD-ROM disc that can only be opened and read. You cannot edit a read-only file or CD-ROM disc and save your changes.


real mode, defined
real mode

An operating mode that Windows runs in to provide maximum compatibility with versions of Windows applications released prior to Windows version 3.0. Real mode is the only mode available for computers with less than 1 MB of extended memory.


Restore button, defined
Restore button

The small button at the upper-right corner of a window that contains both an Up arrow and a Down arrow. The Restore button appears only after you have enlarged a window to its maximum size. Mouse users can click the Restore button to return the window to its previous size. Keyboard users can use the Restore command on the Control menu.


root directory, defined
root directory

The main directory on a disk. The root directory is created at the first level when you format a disk. The symbol used to indicate the root directory of a disk is the backslash (\). For example, the root directory for drive C is noted as C:\.


sample

A piece of waveform data represented by a single numerical value. You convert sound into digital form by taking samples of the sound at specific time intervals and converting them to numeric values.


saturation, defined
saturation

The purity of a hue, moving from gray to the pure color.


scaled font size, defined
scaled font size

A font size that approximates a specified font size for use on the screen. Windows scales larger font sizes when a size that is available for the printer is not available for the screen. Scaled fonts may look slightly different from unscaled fonts. When you choose a smaller font size that is available for the printer but not for the screen, Windows substitutes the correct size from a precision-drawn font that resembles the selected font as closely as possible.


screen font, defined
screen font

A font that duplicates a printer font on your screen.

If you choose a printer font that does not have a corresponding screen font, Windows substitutes a screen font that closely resembles the printer font. The substitute font duplicates the line lengths and page breaks of the font you selected.

When you purchase extra fonts from a printer or font manufacturer, ask about the availability of screen fonts to match.


screen saver

An image or pattern that is shown on your computer screen during periods of inactivity. Screen savers hide information currently on the screen; by changing patterns they can also save wear on the electronics in the display.


scroll arrow, defined
scroll arrow

An arrow on either end of a scroll bar that is used to scroll through the contents of a window or list box. Clicking a scroll arrow moves the contents one line. Holding down a scroll arrow scrolls the contents continuously.

Scroll arrows also control the playing of media in some applications, such as Media Player and Sound Recorder.


scroll bar, defined
scroll bar

A bar that appears at the right and/or bottom edge of a window whose contents aren't completely visible. Each scroll bar contains two scroll arrows and a scroll box, which allow you to scroll within the window or list box.

A scroll bar is also used to control playing of media in some applications, such as Media Player and Sound Recorder.


scroll box, defined
scroll box

The square or rectangular box within a scroll bar that indicates your relative position within a document or list box. Mouse users can drag the scroll box up or down quickly through long documents.

A scroll box is also used to control playing of media in some applications, such as Media Player and Sound Recorder.


Search button, defined
Search button

Displays the keywords you can use to search for topics. Use this button to look for topics related to a keyword.


select, defined
select

To mark an item by highlighting it with key combinations or with a mouse. Selecting does not initiate an action. After selecting an item, you choose the action that affects or involves the item. For example, you can select text and then choose the Copy command to copy the text onto the Clipboard.


selection cursor, defined
selection cursor

The marking device that shows where you are in a window, menu, or dialog box and what you have selected. The selection cursor appears as a dotted box around the text in a dialog box option.


serial ports, defined
serial ports

Ports used by your system, named COM1, COM2, and so on. Serial ports are typically used for connecting modems, mouse devices, and some kinds of printers.


How You Add Items(-) to open the group


volume label, defined
volume label

The name you give a disk by using the Label command. Disk labels are optional. You see this information in File Manager only if you assigned a label to your disk. You can change or add a disk label through File Manager.


WAVE format, defined
WAVE format

Microsoft's format for digitized waveform files. These files have a .WAV extension.


waveform

A sound waveform displays variances in air pressure over time. An audio signal waveform displays variances in voltage over time.


wildcard characters, defined
wildcard characters

Two MS-DOS characters you can substitute for all or part of a file or directory name when you want to find similarly-named files or want one command to affect a number of files or directories.

An asterisk (*) substitutes for all characters. A question mark (?) substitutes for a single character.

For example, this entry covers all files with a .DOC extension in the current directory:

*.DOC

And this entry covers everything named with FY, three other characters, and the extension .90:

FY???.90


window, defined
window

A rectangular area on your screen in which you view an application or document. You can open, close, and move windows, and change the size of most windows. You can open several windows on the desktop at the same time and you can shrink windows to icons or enlarge them to fill the entire desktop.


window border, defined
window border

The outside edge of a window. You can lengthen or shorten each border. You can also change the width of the border with Control Panel's Desktop command.


Windows application, defined
Windows application

An application that was designed for Windows and will not run without Windows. All Windows applications follow the same conventions for arrangement of menus, style of dialog boxes, use of the keyboard and mouse, and so on.


wrap, defined
wrap

The automatic movement of the insertion point from the end of one line to the beginning of the next line as you type. When text wraps, you do not need to press ENTER at the end of each line in a paragraph.