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In our Anniversary Issue<br />

Our motto is;<br />

“To keep it simple for the average person, who just wants to know how to<br />

do this or that without complicated tech talk.”<br />

Thanks to all who contributed to CE<br />

Magazine. Have an article you would like<br />

contribute? You can mail it to:<br />

CE, P.O. Box 8619<br />

Michigan City In 46360<br />

Or E-Mail it to<br />

computerease@juno.com<br />

Founder & Chief Editor<br />

Peter Nadal<br />

Editor<br />

Pamela Kennoy<br />

Our Writers<br />

Rodrigo Esperanza<br />

Nomar Shaw<br />

Diane G<br />

Big Poppa<br />

5 Business links<br />

6 Hey Pete! How do you do that?<br />

9 The Digital Camera Pictures of the<br />

year!<br />

Amateur photographer of the year<br />

13 .5 Cover Pictures that were picked,<br />

but, never made it!<br />

17.5 Master Chief Reese of USS Forrestal<br />

always is submitting all sorts of works<br />

20 American Legion advertise<br />

21 Tablets and Computers for Seniors:<br />

The Only Guide You Need<br />

33 HP PCs - Creating a Wired Local<br />

Area Network<br />

46 Some of The Boss’s Pictures for<br />

“Pete’s Desk” –Again!<br />

47-48 Thanks to our staff & the many sites<br />

for their contribution of articles<br />

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Michigan City Indiana<br />

Vol 4 September 2021 <strong>issue</strong> 9<br />

Front Cover Picture:<br />

Sunset near Westcliffe, CO.<br />

CE Magazine designed by: Peter Nadal<br />

Original Computer-Ease logo ©<br />

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From Pete’s<br />

Desk!<br />

Anniversary Edition<br />

Welcome to Pete’s Desk and if this is your 1 st time reading CE Magazine we<br />

welcome you aboard. We here at CE Magazine comb the internet for those great<br />

articles that remain in obscurity. We find them and bring them back to the light<br />

on<strong>ce</strong> more for you, our readers; hen<strong>ce</strong> we do your searching for you.<br />

Our virtual Magazine Rack click on the link (https://www.yumpu.com/user/CEoMC17)<br />

is free and if you want to read more then click on the CE Magazine in blue. You<br />

will have from 2017 1 st <strong>issue</strong> to <strong>2022</strong> our current <strong>issue</strong>.<br />

SO, you would like a different picture of you, well that was my<br />

thought too, enter Fa<strong>ce</strong> In Hole which I’m been playing with for yrs.<br />

My picture for this anniversary <strong>issue</strong> was to be different, so, I found<br />

a founding father, well, could not help myself; I just had to do it. I<br />

used Corel to fine tune it on<strong>ce</strong> I downloaded it and one of the fine<br />

tunes is the statue holding a tablet with CE Magazine on it, well, I<br />

just got carried away. It is a fun site to do, I named this Picture “If I<br />

Went Back in time and became a Founding Father” …<br />

In this Anniversary Edition the Amateur photographer of the year was a<br />

busy evening as we went throughout the year of pictures taken by our readers and it<br />

was hard to chose, but, we finally choose, so, for Amateur photographer of<br />

the year “CE chose Pier<strong>ce</strong> photographers again” is --- Go to page 9 and you<br />

will see fantastic pictures.<br />

The front cover of this month was taken by Oliver Pier<strong>ce</strong> and yes, the picture from<br />

Oliver had a very mild addition!<br />

We have started taking ads and if you are interested drop us an email at:<br />

computerease@juno.com or mail us at CE, P.O. Box 8619, Michigan City In<br />

46360 and we will send you a flyer of pri<strong>ce</strong>s and sizes available<br />

Enjoy our <strong>magazine</strong> and we hope you find it very informative.<br />

4


Peter<br />

On this anniversary <strong>issue</strong> here at Computer-Ease<br />

has had numerous customers’ inexperien<strong>ce</strong> on<br />

Windows. To help, here are 5 links on this matter to<br />

help you learn some asics, just click on any one the 5<br />

links.. Windows b<br />

5


In this Hey Pete we pick some pictures that were done using MS Paint and some<br />

Corel Paint, have fun!<br />

Here is an invite that can be copied and altered for the upcoming<br />

Holidays!<br />

6


THE WINTER SHOOT!<br />

Here is a picture done in<br />

winter at the dunes with<br />

frozen lake and frozen shore<br />

line.<br />

Was a perfect shoot for my<br />

Pete’s Desk, my hat, jacket<br />

and black turtle neck<br />

was all ready on me as<br />

I walked in the offi<strong>ce</strong><br />

and was lead to the<br />

white wall for a picture<br />

shoot!<br />

Sometimes<br />

after the shoot<br />

and assembly<br />

of the final<br />

picture it does<br />

not work,<br />

sooo,<br />

7


The Digital Camera Picture of the year!<br />

By Rodrigo Esperanza<br />

8


Again I have the distinct honor on choosing the digital photographer of the year. A<br />

numbers of years’s of Oliver and Malcolm Pier<strong>ce</strong>, this year Oliver and<br />

Malcolm on<strong>ce</strong> again got nominated as Photographers of the year.<br />

Oliver and Malcolm Pier<strong>ce</strong><br />

Oliver and Malcolm Pier<strong>ce</strong> and companion Sasha,<br />

an adventurer’s trio. They have beautiful and<br />

fantastic pictures that you should plan your next<br />

vacations to go there. So, here they are…<br />

Our lady guide who never gets lost is Sasha!<br />

9


10


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The saved pictures from<br />

Oliver site and Malcolm site<br />

goes on and on, so, on<strong>ce</strong><br />

again we asked Sasha to be<br />

our tour guide and she was<br />

12


more than happy to do<br />

it with a few more<br />

happy woofs.<br />

From Peter’s<br />

desk congratulation<br />

on<strong>ce</strong> again, you and<br />

your brother<br />

Malcolm were<br />

picked as great<br />

amateur<br />

photographers<br />

“Again” and keep<br />

that keen eye!<br />

Peter…<br />

Thank You Sasha<br />

Cover Pictures<br />

that were picked,<br />

13


ut, never made it, “AGAIN”!<br />

14


15


16


Master Chief Reese of USS Forrestal always is submitting all<br />

sorts of works from his lil shop, here is a sample<br />

17


Master Chief Petty Offi<strong>ce</strong>r Ed Reese<br />

Master Chief Reese loves his lil work shop, he<br />

builds’ so much that he build a little work shop<br />

for his pictures and all the way to Conch shell’s<br />

18


WOW! Have not seen this type of work sin<strong>ce</strong> leaving<br />

Puerto Rico!<br />

19


public servi<strong>ce</strong> ad from CE Magazine<br />

20


1. Home Articles Tablets and Computers for Seniors<br />

Tablets and Computers for Seniors:<br />

The Only Guide You Need<br />

By Publisher | Last updated June 15, 2020<br />

Finding the best tablets and computers for seniors can be a challenging task, but it's<br />

more than doable. Yes, older adults can have a wide range of unique needs.<br />

However, computer manufacturers are continually coming up with new ways to<br />

meet those needs. From large-print keyboards to touchscreens to simplified<br />

operating systems, there are a myriad of options to help seniors stay connected with<br />

technology.<br />

Besides, did you know that computer use is on the rise among this demographic? A<br />

2016 survey by Pew Research Center found that 67 per<strong>ce</strong>nt of American adults over<br />

the age of 65 use the Internet, up from 53 per<strong>ce</strong>nt in a 2012 survey. About a third of<br />

respondents in the 2016 survey reported using social media (and 70 per<strong>ce</strong>nt of those<br />

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who did said they check it every day). A separate Pew Research Center study<br />

revealed that 25 per<strong>ce</strong>nt of seniors play online video games.<br />

When choosing any devi<strong>ce</strong>, the most important factor to consider is what you want<br />

to do with it. Do you just want to send emails and look at family photos, or are you<br />

hoping to watch movies, print documents, or create spreadsheets? Will it stay in one<br />

pla<strong>ce</strong> in your home, or would you like it to be portable? How much experien<strong>ce</strong> do<br />

you have with computers? Are there physical limitations to consider?<br />

In the end, the best devi<strong>ce</strong> is the one that most closely meets your individual needs<br />

and preferen<strong>ce</strong>s. The following information can help you determine exactly what<br />

that might be.<br />

Contents<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

Desktop computers vs. laptops vs. tablets<br />

How to decide what you need<br />

What to look for in a devi<strong>ce</strong><br />

10 of the best standard devi<strong>ce</strong>s for seniors<br />

Computers and tablets specifically designed for seniors<br />

Software solutions that simplify tablets and computers for seniors<br />

Desktop Computers vs. Laptops vs. Tablets<br />

Among seniors, traditional computers such as desktops and laptops are more widely<br />

used than tablets, but tablets have become increasingly popular in re<strong>ce</strong>nt years. In<br />

the 2016 Pew Research Center survey, 32 per<strong>ce</strong>nt of Americans over age 65 said<br />

they owned tablets, up from 18 per<strong>ce</strong>nt in a 2013 survey. In order to select the most<br />

appropriate devi<strong>ce</strong>, it's important to understand how they compare. Here's a<br />

breakdown of the differen<strong>ce</strong>s:<br />

Desktop computers<br />

Desktop computers generally have a tower or base unit, plus a separate monitor,<br />

keyboard, and mouse. They come with large screens and have many options for<br />

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full-size, ergonomically designed keyboards (including some with large-print keys<br />

for users with poor vision). Desktop computers have lots of pro<strong>ce</strong>ssing power and<br />

storage capacity. And because they stay plugged in all the time, you can leave them<br />

running without worrying about charging a battery. They can also be repaired or<br />

upgraded more easily than laptops.<br />

Desktop computers are well-suited for tasks like word pro<strong>ce</strong>ssing, creating<br />

graphics, printing documents, or just having more than one window open at a time.<br />

However, as the name implies, they are designed to stay on a desk; you can't carry<br />

them around with you. They also take up more physical spa<strong>ce</strong> than laptops.<br />

Laptops<br />

Laptops are smaller, portable versions of desktop computers, with a physical<br />

keyboard and screen attached as a single foldable unit. They have a touchpad that<br />

you manipulate with your fingertips rather than a mouse that you use with your<br />

whole hand, but you can always choose to add a wireless mouse. Like desktops,<br />

laptops are good for multitasking as well as creating and printing content. Laptops<br />

are generally less powerful than desktops, but they are more powerful than tablets.<br />

They also have bigger screens than tablets, with more storage spa<strong>ce</strong>.<br />

Tablets<br />

Tablets are about the size of a book or <strong>magazine</strong> and are the most portable option.<br />

They have touchscreens and are smaller, lighter, and thinner than both desktops and<br />

laptops. Because they have no physical keyboard or mouse, they are fairly easy to<br />

hold in your hand. Tablets start up faster than traditional computers and generally<br />

take fewer steps to accomplish tasks. They also tend to have much better battery life<br />

than laptops.<br />

Tablets are ideal for reading, playing games, browsing the Web, watching videos,<br />

and listening to music. However, they are typically not great for multitasking or<br />

doing lots of typing. You can often pair them with wireless keyboards, but those<br />

keyboards tend to be smaller than the full-size options available for desktops.<br />

How to Decide What You Need<br />

Now that you understand the basic types of devi<strong>ce</strong>s, it's time to think about what<br />

will work best for you. Here are some questions to consider:<br />

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1. What will you use it for?<br />

Many seniors are looking to stay connected with loved ones on a simple, userfriendly<br />

devi<strong>ce</strong>, whereas others want a more powerful machine they can use to<br />

create spreadsheets or edit photos. What do you want to be able to do with<br />

your computer? Here are some common tasks:<br />

o<br />

o<br />

o<br />

o<br />

o<br />

o<br />

o<br />

o<br />

o<br />

o<br />

Reading and sending emails<br />

Browsing the Web<br />

Shopping or banking online<br />

Keeping up with social media<br />

Making video calls<br />

Using a word pro<strong>ce</strong>ssor and printing documents<br />

Editing or storing digital photos<br />

Reading e-books or digital <strong>magazine</strong>s<br />

Playing electronic games<br />

Watching videos or listening to music<br />

It's also important to consider where you will use your devi<strong>ce</strong>. Will it stay<br />

parked on a desk or countertop? If so, how much spa<strong>ce</strong> do you have for it?<br />

Were you hoping to use it while lying in bed or relaxing on the couch? Does it<br />

need to fit in a handbag? Your answers will help guide your choi<strong>ce</strong>.<br />

2. What are you already comfortable with?<br />

Think about the technology you've used in the past. Do you have experien<strong>ce</strong><br />

with a <strong>ce</strong>rtain operating system? For instan<strong>ce</strong>, you might prefer a traditional<br />

Windows computer or tablet if that's the interfa<strong>ce</strong> you've always known. Are<br />

you accustomed to a large screen or a full-size keyboard? If so, you might<br />

want a desktop computer or a larger laptop.<br />

On the other hand, you might be looking to simplify your experien<strong>ce</strong><br />

compared to what you've used before. Maybe you don't need all the bells and<br />

whistles of a full-blown desktop system and would be happier with a pareddown<br />

laptop like a Chromebook or a user-friendly tablet like an iPad. If you're<br />

buying a devi<strong>ce</strong> for a senior who is not well acquainted with technology, the<br />

intuitive navigation of a tablet touchscreen might be a better option.<br />

3. What are your physical capabilities?<br />

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Even seniors who are well-versed in technology may find that their devi<strong>ce</strong>s<br />

become more difficult to use as their physical needs change. That's why, for<br />

example, a larger screen and a keyboard with large-print keys can be useful<br />

for older adults with vision limitations. Some seniors find a touchscreen easier<br />

to work with, but those with hand tremors or joint <strong>issue</strong>s may prefer the more<br />

precise control offered by a mouse. Portable devi<strong>ce</strong>s work better for adults<br />

who have difficulties sitting at a desk, but tablets may not be a good option for<br />

those who struggle to hold a devi<strong>ce</strong> in their hands. Be sure to take any<br />

physical limitations into consideration.<br />

What to Look For in a Devi<strong>ce</strong><br />

Computer descriptions can be long and confusing. But the information below will<br />

help you cut through the jargon so that you better understand what you're really<br />

getting with a particular devi<strong>ce</strong>. Here are five things to consider when shopping for<br />

a computer or tablet:<br />

1. Size and weight<br />

A larger screen is easier on older eyes and requires less scrolling. Desktops<br />

offer the largest screens, with some going all the way up to 30 inches, but they<br />

also take up a considerable amount of spa<strong>ce</strong>. Laptop screen sizes range from<br />

11 to 15 inches and up. Tablets are generally between seven and 12 inches.<br />

Anything over 15 inches is too big to be carried comfortably, so keep that in<br />

mind if you're going for portability.<br />

Bigger also means heavier. That might not matter if your computer is going to<br />

stay on a desk, but it's a real <strong>issue</strong> if you plan to carry it around. Tablets are<br />

the lightest option, but if you're leaning toward a laptop, look for one that<br />

weighs no more than four pounds.<br />

2. Operating system<br />

The operating system (OS) is the software that makes the computer work.<br />

Different types of devi<strong>ce</strong>s run different operating systems, so you need to<br />

decide which type is best for you.<br />

Microsoft Windows is a widely used and highly versatile operating system<br />

that runs on desktops, laptops, and tablets. Many people are familiar with the<br />

Windows interfa<strong>ce</strong>. These machines come in a wide range of styles and can<br />

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cost anywhere from a couple hundred to several thousand dollars. One<br />

drawback is that they tend to come with a lot of unne<strong>ce</strong>ssary software, known<br />

as bloatware. Plus, they require periodic updates and are extremely sus<strong>ce</strong>ptible<br />

to viruses and malware.<br />

Apple computers are powered by the macOS operating system (for desktops<br />

and laptops) and iOS (for iPads). Apple machines are known for being easy to<br />

learn and use, and they are extremely secure, with little risk of malicious<br />

software. However, they tend to be expensive.<br />

Chromebooks are simple laptops that run Google's Chrome OS. They are<br />

lightweight and inexpensive and are built around the Chrome web browser.<br />

Just keep this in mind: Sin<strong>ce</strong> these machines are meant to be used while<br />

connected to the Internet, you will need Wi-Fi to perform most tasks,<br />

including retrieving your files.<br />

Android is Google's operating system for tablets. Android tablets are made by<br />

lots of different companies. For instan<strong>ce</strong>, Samsung and Amazon both use<br />

versions of Android on their tablets. But because there is no uniform version<br />

of the operating system, not all apps are available on all systems. If you opt<br />

for an Android devi<strong>ce</strong>, make sure it has the features you want.<br />

3. RAM<br />

Random ac<strong>ce</strong>ss memory (RAM) is what computers use for short-term storage<br />

of data. The more RAM a machine has, the more tasks it can accomplish at<br />

on<strong>ce</strong>, and the smoother it will run. Desktops and laptops should have at least<br />

4GB of RAM. Because tablets manage memory a bit differently, RAM isn't<br />

quite as crucial; most tablets come with somewhere between 1GB and 4GB of<br />

RAM.<br />

4. Storage<br />

You also need to think about how much internal memory you will need to<br />

store your documents, photos, music, and videos. If you mostly just browse<br />

the Web and send emails, then 16GB might be enough memory. On the other<br />

hand, if you download lots of games, songs, photos, and movies, you will<br />

need much more.<br />

5. Maintenan<strong>ce</strong> and security<br />

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Before buying any devi<strong>ce</strong>, consider how it will be protected against viruses or<br />

cyber attacks. As noted above, Windows machines are often targets of<br />

malicious software, making it critical to stay on top of security updates. If you<br />

don't feel comfortable doing that, see if a trusted friend or family member<br />

could handle it for you. Otherwise, you might be better off choosing a<br />

different operating system.<br />

Chromebooks are a good low-maintenan<strong>ce</strong> option. They automatically apply<br />

updates and patches in the background, so you don't have to deal with doing<br />

that yourself. You might also want to consider an iMac, MacBook, or iPad.<br />

Apple tightly controls its hardware and software and only allows downloads<br />

from approved developers, so its systems are fairly secure.<br />

Keep in mind, however, that there is still room for user error. Some people do<br />

not fully appreciate the risks of downloading files or clicking on links in<br />

unsolicited emails. It's important to educate yourself or whoever will be using<br />

the computer about the dangers of phishing and how to avoid getting caught<br />

up in scams.<br />

This article contains affiliate links. We are compensated with a small<br />

commission, at no extra cost to you, for sales made through the links.<br />

10 of the Best Standard Devi<strong>ce</strong>s for Seniors<br />

There are a wide variety of standard computers and tablets that work well for older<br />

adults, depending on their needs and budget.<br />

1. MacBook Pro 13-Inch Laptop<br />

Seniors who are familiar with iPhones and appreciate Apple's intuitive<br />

interfa<strong>ce</strong> might want to look at the 13-inch MacBook Pro laptop. Its highresolution<br />

Retina display, backlit keyboard, and ex<strong>ce</strong>llent speakers make it<br />

ideal for older adults with vision or hearing challenges. It's also very thin,<br />

measuring only 0.59 inches when closed.<br />

2. Dell Inspiron i5459 All-in-One Desktop<br />

This Windows machine is an all-in-one desktop, meaning it comes with<br />

everything you need: workstation, monitor, keyboard, and mouse. The screen<br />

is 23.8 inches wide and has full HD (high definition) resolution, so images<br />

27


and text are crisp and clear. A boon for seniors is that the included keyboard<br />

and mouse are wireless. That way, you can adjust your sitting position to<br />

whatever is most comfortable.<br />

3. Microsoft Surfa<strong>ce</strong> Pro<br />

Seniors who are looking for a powerful yet portable Windows devi<strong>ce</strong> may<br />

want to consider the Surfa<strong>ce</strong> Pro. With its sharp 12.3-inch touchscreen and<br />

detachable keyboard, the Surfa<strong>ce</strong> Pro can function as either a tablet or laptop.<br />

This machine can run full Windows applications, including Microsoft Offi<strong>ce</strong>.<br />

However, you do have to purchase the keyboard and stylus separately, which<br />

bumps up the cost.<br />

4. Dell Inspiron i3464 All-in-One Desktop<br />

Another all-in-one from Dell, the i3464 also runs Windows 10 and has a 23.8-<br />

inch screen that can display full HD. It has a slightly less powerful pro<strong>ce</strong>ssor<br />

than the i5459, but this one is more affordable and is still good for everyday<br />

tasks. The keyboard and mouse are wired, but you can repla<strong>ce</strong> them with<br />

wireless versions if you prefer.<br />

5. Samsung Chromebook Pro<br />

At 2.4 pounds, this is one of the lightest Chromebooks on the market. It has a<br />

crisp 12.3-inch touchscreen and a 360-degree hinge that allows the keyboard<br />

to fold all the way back out of sight. That means it can function like either a<br />

laptop or a tablet. (The keyboard remains attached, though, so it's heavier than<br />

a true tablet.) Chromebooks are great for web browsing; this one also runs<br />

Android apps.<br />

6. A<strong>ce</strong>r Aspire E15 E5-575-33BM Laptop<br />

If you're looking for a Windows laptop with a bigger screen, you'd be wise to<br />

consider the Aspire E15. This is a solidly-built budget laptop that features an<br />

ex<strong>ce</strong>llent 15.6-inch HD display and good-quality sound. The keyboard is<br />

backlit and very responsive. At a little over five pounds, it's a bit heavy to be<br />

carrying around, but it offers a good combination of performan<strong>ce</strong> and<br />

usability.<br />

7. Samsung Galaxy Tab S3<br />

28


With a 9.7-inch screen, the Galaxy Tab S3 is a thin, light tablet. It offers a<br />

beautiful display with vibrant colors, plus four very good speakers, making it<br />

an ex<strong>ce</strong>llent choi<strong>ce</strong> for seniors who want to enjoy their favorite movies or TV<br />

shows on a handheld devi<strong>ce</strong>. The S3 also comes with a stylus, which gives<br />

you more precise control of the touchscreen.<br />

8. A<strong>ce</strong>r Aspire TC-780-ACKi3 Desktop<br />

This is a solid choi<strong>ce</strong> for seniors who want a basic desktop computer. It runs<br />

Windows 10 and delivers good performan<strong>ce</strong>. It comes with a large hard drive,<br />

so there's plenty of storage spa<strong>ce</strong> for movies, videos, and other media. Note,<br />

however, that this is not an all-in-one. A wired keyboard and mouse are part<br />

of the package, but a monitor is not. You'll have to buy one separately or<br />

connect to one you already have.<br />

9. iPad Mini 5<br />

Apple devi<strong>ce</strong>s are renowned for their usability, and the iPad Mini 5 offers a<br />

simple interfa<strong>ce</strong> on a 7.9-inch screen. This tablet is small enough to fit easily<br />

in a purse or handbag and weighs only 0.66 pounds. Its manageable size<br />

makes it great for reading and web browsing; you can hold it for extended<br />

periods without too much strain. The small on-screen keyboard can be hard to<br />

use, but you can pair it with a wireless keyboard if you're going to be doing<br />

lots of typing.<br />

10. Kindle Fire HD 8<br />

The Kindle Fire HD 8 is an entertainment tablet at a bargain pri<strong>ce</strong>. If you're an<br />

Amazon Prime member and get most of your e-books, digital music, and<br />

videos from Amazon, the Fire is an easy way to enjoy them. It features a<br />

de<strong>ce</strong>nt screen and 10 hours of battery life. It also includes Alexa, Amazon's<br />

virtual assistant. It's not the most robust tablet out there, but it's a good deal<br />

for the pri<strong>ce</strong>.<br />

29


Computers and Tablets Specifically Designed for Seniors<br />

While many seniors are comfortable using standard devi<strong>ce</strong>s, those who have little<br />

experien<strong>ce</strong> with technology may prefer a computer that was designed with them in<br />

mind. The information below explains a few of the available options.<br />

Telikin Elite II 22-Inch Desktop<br />

The Telikin claims to be the easiest computer for seniors to use. It has a plug-andplay<br />

setup and offers a simple, user-friendly interfa<strong>ce</strong>, with large buttons anchored<br />

along the side of the touchscreen for each function: email, Web browsing, photos,<br />

games, video chat, etc. It also comes with a large-print keyboard, a wired mouse,<br />

and a text-to-speech function that allows your emails to be read out loud to you. A<br />

feature called Tech Buddy allows a designated person to ac<strong>ce</strong>ss the Telikin<br />

remotely, so seniors who run into problems can get assistan<strong>ce</strong> from a friend or<br />

family member.<br />

30


However, for the pri<strong>ce</strong>, the machine is underpowered. (It has an outdated pro<strong>ce</strong>ssor<br />

and only 2GB of RAM.) Plus, it only works with <strong>ce</strong>rtain printers, and the operating<br />

system is locked down, so you can't install any software.<br />

You might be better off buying a cheaper desktop computer elsewhere and adding<br />

special software to simplify things. But for tech-fearful older adults who have never<br />

used a computer before, it might fit the bill. (Telikin also offers a 15-inch<br />

touchscreen laptop as well as an 18-inch desktop model, although both of these lack<br />

the text-to-speech functionality.) The company offers a 60-day money-back<br />

guarantee.<br />

A Plus Senior Computer<br />

A Plus offers a range of desktop and laptop computers that run Windows, but with a<br />

special overlay that makes things easier for seniors. Initially, the screen has only<br />

three big icons for email, games, and Google. Desktop models come with a 20- or<br />

24-inch screen, large-print keyboard, and mouse. (Laptop screens are either 15 or<br />

17 inches and do not have the large-print keyboard.) Touchscreen models are<br />

available for both desktops and laptops.<br />

The main differen<strong>ce</strong> between these and the Telikin computers is that these are fully<br />

functioning Windows machines, so you can add any Windows software or connect<br />

to any standard printer. The hardware is also better quality than the Telikin, with a<br />

faster pro<strong>ce</strong>ssor, 4GB of RAM, and plenty of ports for connecting other devi<strong>ce</strong>s.<br />

The company also claims to offer lifetime anti-virus protection, so security updates<br />

should be taken care of. You can try one of the computers risk-free for 30 days.<br />

GrandPad<br />

Designed for adults over 75 who have never used a computer or who have vision,<br />

hearing, or motor skill challenges, the GrandPad is an eight-inch simplified tablet. It<br />

allows seniors to make video calls, view photos, send and re<strong>ce</strong>ive email (including<br />

the ability to record voi<strong>ce</strong> emails instead of typing them), listen to music, and play<br />

games—all just by tapping one of the giant colorful buttons on the touchscreen.<br />

Family members can download a free companion app that will allow them to send<br />

photos and videos directly to their loved one's GrandPad. Family members can also<br />

work with company support to specify what types of content should be<br />

automatically sent to the GrandPad. There is no Web browser, and users can only<br />

31


get calls or emails from approved contacts, so seniors don't need to worry about<br />

spam or security. There are also no passwords to remember or settings to configure.<br />

However, the devi<strong>ce</strong> relies on 4G connectivity, so there is a hefty monthly fee. And<br />

if you can<strong>ce</strong>l the plan, you must return the tablet to the company.<br />

Claris Companion<br />

Another simplified tablet, the Claris Companion has a 10-inch touchscreen with a<br />

customized interfa<strong>ce</strong>. It's designed to enable elderly seniors to connect with loved<br />

ones and caretakers and re<strong>ce</strong>ive reminders about appointments and medications.<br />

Large circles on the screen activate various functions, such as photos, email and text<br />

messages, and Web browsing. Seniors can also use the "Check In" button to send a<br />

message to family members saying they're all right.<br />

Care providers or family members can manage the devi<strong>ce</strong> remotely and send photos<br />

and messages, set reminders, create contacts, allow ac<strong>ce</strong>ss to <strong>ce</strong>rtain websites, and<br />

more. For example, if seniors miss a medication reminder or fail to check in, family<br />

members can re<strong>ce</strong>ive an alert.<br />

Both Wi-Fi and 4G models are available directly from Claris Companion, but both<br />

incur a monthly fee.<br />

Software Solutions That Simplify Computers and Tablets for Seniors<br />

In many cases, a standard devi<strong>ce</strong> can be made more senior-friendly with the help of<br />

special software. Here are a couple options:<br />

Oscar Senior<br />

Oscar Senior is an app that allows any tablet (either iOS or Android) to be turned<br />

into a simplified devi<strong>ce</strong> for information, entertainment, and communication. The<br />

app provides a simple, secure interfa<strong>ce</strong> with enlarged text and big icons that enable<br />

older adults to make video calls, play games, surf the Web, check social media, get<br />

the latest news, and more.<br />

A family member (who must also download the app) acts as a designated<br />

administrator and can remotely manage the senior's contacts and content. An<br />

administrator can even make a video call to the senior and have it auto-answered, so<br />

the senior can get connected without even having to touch the tablet. The senior<br />

32


cannot close the app or download any additional apps, and the interfa<strong>ce</strong> blocks<br />

popups and alerts from third parties. However, administrators can easily exit the<br />

app, so the tablet can be used for other things.<br />

The app is free for seven days, but then a subscription is required.<br />

Eldy<br />

You can make a standard personal computer much easier for seniors to use by<br />

downloading the free Eldy software. It works on older computers running Windows<br />

7 as well as some Android tablets. Eldy transforms the screen into a simplified<br />

menu of six large buttons for ac<strong>ce</strong>ssing the Internet, email, video calls, and more.<br />

Navigation is easy, as there is always a button along the bottom for returning to the<br />

main screen. Users can also close the software in order to use the computer as<br />

normal. (They get warnings asking them if they're sure that's what they want to do.)<br />

If they want to go back to Eldy, they just click on the Eldy icon.<br />

Go Digital<br />

With the vast array of options for tablets and computers for seniors, it's easier than<br />

ever to reap the benefits of technology. Finding the best option is a matter of<br />

deciding what you'd like to accomplish and what you're most comfortable with.<br />

Whatever your particular needs, you can definitely find a devi<strong>ce</strong> to suit you.<br />

Related Articles<br />

<br />

The Best Cell Phones for Seniors<br />

Senior Discounts 2020<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

Gifts for Elderly Friends & Loved Ones<br />

What to Do in Retirement<br />

Interpreting Emojis<br />

This Generation's Jargon<br />

33


Note From Nomar Shaw desk:<br />

It may sound complicated, but, it is not especially with Windows 7. If<br />

you have some old computer’s or laptops play with them and you will<br />

be surprise, click on the link below to take you to the site for more<br />

info!<br />

HP PCs - Creating a Wired Local Area Network<br />

(Windows 7)<br />

Setting up a local network and file sharing in Windows 7<br />

Ac<strong>ce</strong>ssing shared files and directories in Windows 7<br />

This document pertains to HP and Compaq computers and<br />

workstations with Windows 7.<br />

Windows 7 supports connection of multiple computers in a home network.<br />

Connecting multiple computers in a network can be a convenient way to<br />

share files in the home. This document provides instructions for setting up<br />

and sharing folders and files on a wired home network.<br />

For more information on a given step, click the heading or the<br />

accompanying plus (+) sign to expand the information.<br />

Setting up a local network and file sharing in Windows 7<br />

Use the steps in this section to set up a home network using standard RJ-<br />

45 hardware and cables.<br />

34


Note:<br />

When using steps involving Windows, log in using the main<br />

administrative account. Normally this is the first account that was created<br />

when the computer was first turned on.<br />

Before you begin setting up a local network in Windows 7<br />

Confirm that you have the following hardware and follow these steps:<br />

<br />

Network interfa<strong>ce</strong> card (NIC) or an on-the-motherboard network port<br />

for each computer. HP and Compaq computers are network ready<br />

with NICs installed. Confirm the computer has a RJ-45 network port<br />

on the back.<br />

Figure: Shape of RJ-45 connector<br />

<br />

Network hub (or router). A separate network hub may not be<br />

ne<strong>ce</strong>ssary if your home is already equipped with RJ-45 jacks in the<br />

walls or if your DSL or cable modem provides RJ-45 ports (select<br />

models). If you need a network hub, consult with a network specialist<br />

at your local computer store to determine a hub that meets your<br />

needs.<br />

Note:<br />

A crossover cable can be used to connect two computers without a<br />

hub. However, it only allows two computers to connect and is not<br />

expandable.<br />

<br />

Network cables for each computer.<br />

35


Disconnect the Internet. If you have a DSL or cable modem,<br />

disconnect it.<br />

Disable any firewall software. Firewall software may interfere with<br />

network setup. You can enable the firewall after network setup is<br />

complete.<br />

Step 1: Connecting the network hardware and cables to<br />

set up a local network<br />

Do the following to set up the network hardware and connect the<br />

networking cables.<br />

1. Set up and turn on the power for the network hub or other networking<br />

devi<strong>ce</strong>. (Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer).<br />

2. Connect the computers to the networking devi<strong>ce</strong>. If a crossover cable<br />

is used, connect the cable to the RJ45 network ports on each<br />

computer.<br />

Figure: Example of one possible setup configuration<br />

3. Connect the computer power cords and turn the computers on.<br />

36


Step 2: Turning on Network discovery and file sharing in<br />

Windows 7<br />

Turn on Network discovery and file sharing on each computer that you<br />

want to ac<strong>ce</strong>ss on the network. Follow these steps to begin setting up the<br />

network:<br />

1. Click Start , and then click Control Panel.<br />

2. Under Network and Internet, click Choose Homegroup and sharing<br />

options.<br />

Figure: Network and Internet<br />

3. In the Homegroup settings window, click Change advan<strong>ce</strong>d sharing<br />

settings.<br />

Figure: Homegroup settings<br />

37


4. Turn on network discovery and file and printer sharing. Review the<br />

other settings and turn them on or off.<br />

Figure: Advan<strong>ce</strong>d sharing settings<br />

5. Click Save changes.<br />

Step 3: Sharing drives, folders, and files in a Windows 7<br />

network<br />

To share non-public folders with other computers on a local network,<br />

follow these steps:<br />

1. Click Start , and then click Computer.<br />

2. Browse to the folder you want to share.<br />

38


3. Right-click the folder, select Share with, and then click Homegroup<br />

(Read), Homegroup (Read/Write), or Specific people.<br />

Figure: Share with menu options<br />

4. If you chose Specific people, the File Sharing window displays.<br />

5. Click the down arrow and select the account you want to share with,<br />

and then click Add.<br />

Note:<br />

A User Account Control might open. You must ac<strong>ce</strong>pt this Window to<br />

make the ne<strong>ce</strong>ssary changes.<br />

39


Figure: File Sharing window<br />

6. Click an arrow under Permission Level to set the permission level for<br />

each account or group.<br />

7. Click Share.<br />

Step 4: Testing a local network in Windows 7<br />

Open the Windows 7 network window and browse through the shared<br />

folders in each computer on the network. If the computer is able to read<br />

and ac<strong>ce</strong>ss files from a remote computer, the remote computer is set up<br />

correctly. Browse to every available computer from each computer on the<br />

network. If there are any <strong>issue</strong>s, go back through these steps and verify<br />

that the settings are correct.<br />

40


For more information, refer to the section Ac<strong>ce</strong>ssing shared files and<br />

directories in Windows 7.<br />

When all computers are able to network to each other on the network,<br />

continue with the next step to enable Internet ac<strong>ce</strong>ss and the firewall.<br />

Step 5: Enabling Internet ac<strong>ce</strong>ss and firewall for a local<br />

network<br />

On<strong>ce</strong> you have verified that your home network is capable of transferring<br />

files, connect and enable Internet connections for computers with Internet<br />

ac<strong>ce</strong>ss.<br />

caution:<br />

Make sure that each computer with Internet ac<strong>ce</strong>ss is well protected from<br />

security threats. At the minimum, each computer should have its Internet<br />

connection protected with a firewall and Windows should be updated with<br />

the latest critical updates from Microsoft Windows Update. If malicious<br />

activity comes though one computer, the activity can quickly spread<br />

through the entire network.<br />

Ac<strong>ce</strong>ssing shared files and directories in Windows 7<br />

Do the following to ac<strong>ce</strong>ss shared files and directories in a local network:<br />

1. Ensure network discovery and file sharing is turned On.<br />

2. Click Start , click Control Panel, click Network and Internet, and<br />

then click Network and Sharing Center.<br />

3. Double-click Network.<br />

41


Figure: Network and Sharing Center<br />

4. The Network window opens and displays computers with shared<br />

folders that are detected on local networks.<br />

Figure: Computers on the network with shared folders<br />

42


5. Double-click the computer you want to ac<strong>ce</strong>ss.<br />

Note:<br />

When ac<strong>ce</strong>ssing shared files or directories the following error message<br />

window may display:<br />

Figure: Cannot ac<strong>ce</strong>ss PC<br />

This error can be caused by the following:<br />

<br />

<br />

Password Protection is On and the Guest account is On.<br />

The account does not have permission to ac<strong>ce</strong>ss the share. This<br />

typically occurs when specific permissions are set up on systems with<br />

multiple share folders.<br />

note:<br />

Windows 7 file sharing displays all the shared folders, even those you<br />

do not have permission to ac<strong>ce</strong>ss.<br />

To resolve the error, verify the following:<br />

o<br />

o<br />

o<br />

The account has the proper permissions to ac<strong>ce</strong>ss the computer.<br />

The computer name and account name are spelled correctly.<br />

Make sure that Firewall software on any connected computer is<br />

set to allow ac<strong>ce</strong>ss.<br />

43


A public servi<strong>ce</strong> ad from CE Magazine<br />

44


Tech Humor!!<br />

45


From Nomar Shaw<br />

Some of the Boss’s Pictures from<br />

“ Pete’s Desk”(again)<br />

Early morning on<br />

his 2 nd Cup of<br />

coffee or maybe<br />

his 4 th ahhh, I lost<br />

count….<br />

Hamming it up<br />

for the news<br />

media… wait a<br />

minute, WHAT<br />

NEWS<br />

MEDIA?!?!?<br />

46


Halloween day and the Boss<br />

is having a meltdown for not<br />

having his pot of coffee yet<br />

and we are all running<br />

around like headless<br />

chickens looking for that<br />

coffee can!!!<br />

Up Up and<br />

Away!!<br />

In orbit…<br />

47


TO OUR STAF<br />

FOR ALL THEIR HARD WORK!<br />

It’s been a Fantastic Year<br />

Our Writers<br />

Big Papa Diane G Rodrigo Esperanza Nomar Shaw<br />

Our Editor<br />

Pamela Kennoy<br />

48


Thank You to the contributing sour<strong>ce</strong>s from this past year!<br />

AssistedLivingToday<br />

Cnet<br />

TC<br />

Oliver site<br />

Malcolm site<br />

Pinterest<br />

HP PCs - Creating a<br />

Wired Local Area Network<br />

Great Senior Living<br />

Brad Puet<br />

Corporate Computer<br />

Servi<strong>ce</strong>s TM<br />

Dan Maloney<br />

David Gewirtz for DIY-IT<br />

The New York Times<br />

James M. Schmidt<br />

Lifewire<br />

ZME SCIENCE<br />

J.D. Biersdorfer<br />

Patrick Lucas Austin<br />

Frederic Godward<br />

Stuart Fox<br />

Adam Ismail<br />

Chron<br />

Car Technology<br />

Staples<br />

The Seattle Times<br />

Max Eaglen<br />

Lifewire<br />

Tibi Puiu<br />

WordPress News<br />

TECH TNT<br />

Donna Lu<br />

Concha García Zaera<br />

USA TODAY<br />

AMAZON<br />

Our 5 th year and I can hardly be more ecstatic because<br />

of you the reader’s have made this all happened. I<br />

thank my entire staff (who remain as ghost writers<br />

and there fa<strong>ce</strong> pictures) for the endless nights,<br />

creativity and most of all their loyalty to CE<br />

Magazine and Yumpu.com for their supreme work on<br />

getting our <strong>magazine</strong> on line, fantastic work and do<br />

seek them out if you need them. And to our reader’s, I<br />

thank you, for the tremendous thumbs up and<br />

accolades when you see me, that makes CE Magazine<br />

worth keeping on going for all of you readers.<br />

Peter Nadal<br />

49

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