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Grandpa's Workshop
A simple,easy to use guide to smooth sailing on eBayEspecially designed for new computer users
Hello, and welcome !
This guide is for all who want to get the most from their computers and learn the basics of browsing eBay. Especially targeted to new users, this guide will help you to:
1. Keep up with technology
2. Get help when you need it
3. Realize you have friends here
4. Easily identify and repair common problems
Some common misconceptions about eBay and the internet in general -
1. You need a new computer to buy and sell on eBay. Wrong.
2. You have to understand gigabytes, pixels and programming . Also wrong.
3. I can't get help. Nobody cares. Totally incorrect.
4. I'm not sure if I'm smart enough to handle this. I assure you,you are.
The information provided in this guide is primarily targeted to Microsoft Windows,
although all computers will benefit with a little updating and attention.
Why don't we start off simple, taking a close look at your computer system to make sure you're good to go. As mentioned , you do not need a new computer to buy and sell on eBay. What you do need is a healthy computer. Technology is moving at such a fast pace it is difficult to keep up.
I am going to provide you with some tips that will keep your system running smoothly, efficiently and error-free, and these are all FREE. The better your computer works, the happier you will be.
1. Updates- Set your system to receive automatic updates and always install them.
Go to Start>All Programs> Windows Update. You will then be taken to a page that
will scan your current configuration and recommend updates that are available.
Updates for Windows, hardware or installed devices can be accessed here.
The express option will insure that you receive all critical updates available.
Also from this page, you will be able to see if your computer is currently set to
receive automatic updates. Choose this option if you have not already done so.
You can select to download updates at a set time, just don't fail to install them.
Download and install the latest service pack, currently Service Pack 3 (On XP).
2. Drivers- Download and install the most recent drivers that are available for your computer.
Java and Flash Player just came out with updates recently. The Update center for
your computer will scan your system and recommend updates, any time you want to ask.
When you receive a notice from Java, Adobe, or any other program that you are
currently running, always take the time to install the update. You may get a second
notice but you may not. These are provided free of charge, always take advantage
of them. Go to www.java.sun.com/ and www.adobe.com/ to download and install.
3. Clear personal history often- Clearing your cache (Temporary internet files),cookies and browsing history daily and rebooting your computer will usually allow it to run very
smoothly.
Go to your browser selections at the very top of the page and select the Tools tab.
In the drop down menu, select Clear Recent History or Delete Browsing History.
Check the items you want to clear.
If you like, you can leave saved passwords unchecked. Then, reboot.
Just keep in mind, it's dangerous to save passwords in this manner!
4. Set the security level on your computer no higher than medium for browsing eBay.
Go to Start>Control Panel>Security Settings>Windows Security Center. Select
Manage security settings for: Internet Options. From the Internet Properties
dialogue box, select the Security tab.to make and save your selection to medium.
5. You will need to allow cookies on your system, this can be selected for eBay only if you prefer.
Cookies are designed to speed up your system.
6. Check to make sure your Windows firewall is on ! Go to Start>Control Panel>Firewall .
If you use a third party firewall, turn your Windows firewall off. Select only one active.
7. Your Pop-up blocker needs to be unchecked for all functions to run properly on eBay.
This guide is for all who want to get the most from their computers and learn the basics of browsing eBay. Especially targeted to new users, this guide will help you to:
1. Keep up with technology
2. Get help when you need it
3. Realize you have friends here
4. Easily identify and repair common problems
Some common misconceptions about eBay and the internet in general -
1. You need a new computer to buy and sell on eBay. Wrong.
2. You have to understand gigabytes, pixels and programming . Also wrong.
3. I can't get help. Nobody cares. Totally incorrect.
4. I'm not sure if I'm smart enough to handle this. I assure you,you are.
The information provided in this guide is primarily targeted to Microsoft Windows,
although all computers will benefit with a little updating and attention.
Why don't we start off simple, taking a close look at your computer system to make sure you're good to go. As mentioned , you do not need a new computer to buy and sell on eBay. What you do need is a healthy computer. Technology is moving at such a fast pace it is difficult to keep up.
I am going to provide you with some tips that will keep your system running smoothly, efficiently and error-free, and these are all FREE. The better your computer works, the happier you will be.
1. Updates- Set your system to receive automatic updates and always install them.
Go to Start>All Programs> Windows Update. You will then be taken to a page that
will scan your current configuration and recommend updates that are available.
Updates for Windows, hardware or installed devices can be accessed here.
The express option will insure that you receive all critical updates available.
Also from this page, you will be able to see if your computer is currently set to
receive automatic updates. Choose this option if you have not already done so.
You can select to download updates at a set time, just don't fail to install them.
Download and install the latest service pack, currently Service Pack 3 (On XP).
2. Drivers- Download and install the most recent drivers that are available for your computer.
Java and Flash Player just came out with updates recently. The Update center for
your computer will scan your system and recommend updates, any time you want to ask.
When you receive a notice from Java, Adobe, or any other program that you are
currently running, always take the time to install the update. You may get a second
notice but you may not. These are provided free of charge, always take advantage
of them. Go to www.java.sun.com/ and www.adobe.com/ to download and install.
3. Clear personal history often- Clearing your cache (Temporary internet files),cookies and browsing history daily and rebooting your computer will usually allow it to run very
smoothly.
Go to your browser selections at the very top of the page and select the Tools tab.
In the drop down menu, select Clear Recent History or Delete Browsing History.
Check the items you want to clear.
If you like, you can leave saved passwords unchecked. Then, reboot.
Just keep in mind, it's dangerous to save passwords in this manner!
4. Set the security level on your computer no higher than medium for browsing eBay.
Go to Start>Control Panel>Security Settings>Windows Security Center. Select
Manage security settings for: Internet Options. From the Internet Properties
dialogue box, select the Security tab.to make and save your selection to medium.
5. You will need to allow cookies on your system, this can be selected for eBay only if you prefer.
Cookies are designed to speed up your system.
6. Check to make sure your Windows firewall is on ! Go to Start>Control Panel>Firewall .
If you use a third party firewall, turn your Windows firewall off. Select only one active.
7. Your Pop-up blocker needs to be unchecked for all functions to run properly on eBay.
O.K Lets stop right here, get your breath, and see where we are.
Your system updates are all current.
You have the most recent driver updates
You've cleared your personal history
You did reboot, right?
You haven't done anything that will harm your computer. Good work!
Now what we want to do is select a browser that blends well with the heavy work load on eBay.
1. Be aware that keeping up with advancing technology on the internet, not just eBay, is going to
take a new generation, high speed browser. There are as you know several. Internet Explorer,
for the most part, is currently in transition with IE8. It will probably be fine in the future.
I personally recommend Firefox 3.5. Since I don't have any problems browsing eBay, I love it.
Please consider at least trying it. Go to www.mozilla.com for a free download. You have the
option to switch back to any other browser you choose at any time. You have the option to
select Firefox as your default browser and continue using your current home page.
You would be amazed at how many problems that have been reported on the answer boards that
have been cured with this simple, and did I mention free, download. I get e-mails from mem-
bers all the time just to say thanks for recommending Firefox . What a simple fix ! I would
also like to mention here that Windows 98 users appear to have the best results using
Netscape 9, which is also a free download. eBay doesn't recommend using Netscape.
Browsers supported by eBay: Latest version of Internet Explorer or Firefox for PC,
Latest version of Safari or Firefox for Mac.
2. Lets get a little deeper now. I presume you have more time than money right now, right?
Lets just put the idea of a new computer out of your mind. You can do this. I promise!
The next step is to perform a disc cleanup. If you haven't done this lately, I think it's time.
Most systems are similar. I'm using HP-XP-SP3 My personal favorite.
Go to control panel>performance and maintenance>free up space on your hard disc.
When the disc cleanup window appears,note the entry Temporary Internet Files. See that big
number beside it? Delete it. When asked if you're sure, say I hit the button,didn't I?
I hate it when my computer brags about how much smarter it is than I am.
Also in the Disc Cleanup window you will see Compress Old Files. Your computer has the ability
to compress files that haven't been accessed in a while. Performing this action will not delete
anything but will free up disc space and the files, if ever needed again, are still accessible.
If it has been a while since this step has been performed, it will definitely take some time.
While you are here, you can also empty the recycle bin if you like. I can't remember the last
time I actually pulled anything out of there anyway.
3. The next step will take a little time. You did say you have a little time to save money?
Defrag. Put everything in the library on the same shelf so it can be accessed easily and quickly.
Go to control panel>performance and maintenance>rearrange items on your hard disc to make
programs run faster. Follow the easy directions, this will take some time. Let's get some coffee.
4. Windows Temp file folder - Go to Start> Run> Type in %temp% When the file appears,
highlight and select all items in the file and select Delete.
5. Next, Registry cleaner.I have to admit,I don't run mine as often as I should. Use caution here!
If you plan to perform this procedure, always create a restore point first! That's a must!
Any time you uninstall programs from your system, there are fragments left over in the registry.
I don't recommend this for normal maintenance. You can possibly remove something that
you really didn't intend to, and you will need to know enough about computers to put it back!
Unless you are having serious slowdown problems, it's best not to use a registry cleaner
unless you are aware of the procedures to re-install items you may have wanted to keep.
6. This may be a good time to mention this. Don't ever lose track of your Original factory
operating system installation discs. Don't ever buy a used computer without them. I hope
you never need them. They can be critically important to you in an emergency.
How do you like your brand new computer? Still has chocolate cookie crumbs in the keyboard,
but who cares. It's MY computer, and I fixed it all by myself ! Told you you could.
1. Be aware that keeping up with advancing technology on the internet, not just eBay, is going to
take a new generation, high speed browser. There are as you know several. Internet Explorer,
for the most part, is currently in transition with IE8. It will probably be fine in the future.
I personally recommend Firefox 3.5. Since I don't have any problems browsing eBay, I love it.
Please consider at least trying it. Go to www.mozilla.com for a free download. You have the
option to switch back to any other browser you choose at any time. You have the option to
select Firefox as your default browser and continue using your current home page.
You would be amazed at how many problems that have been reported on the answer boards that
have been cured with this simple, and did I mention free, download. I get e-mails from mem-
bers all the time just to say thanks for recommending Firefox . What a simple fix ! I would
also like to mention here that Windows 98 users appear to have the best results using
Netscape 9, which is also a free download. eBay doesn't recommend using Netscape.
Browsers supported by eBay: Latest version of Internet Explorer or Firefox for PC,
Latest version of Safari or Firefox for Mac.
2. Lets get a little deeper now. I presume you have more time than money right now, right?
Lets just put the idea of a new computer out of your mind. You can do this. I promise!
The next step is to perform a disc cleanup. If you haven't done this lately, I think it's time.
Most systems are similar. I'm using HP-XP-SP3 My personal favorite.
Go to control panel>performance and maintenance>free up space on your hard disc.
When the disc cleanup window appears,note the entry Temporary Internet Files. See that big
number beside it? Delete it. When asked if you're sure, say I hit the button,didn't I?
I hate it when my computer brags about how much smarter it is than I am.
Also in the Disc Cleanup window you will see Compress Old Files. Your computer has the ability
to compress files that haven't been accessed in a while. Performing this action will not delete
anything but will free up disc space and the files, if ever needed again, are still accessible.
If it has been a while since this step has been performed, it will definitely take some time.
While you are here, you can also empty the recycle bin if you like. I can't remember the last
time I actually pulled anything out of there anyway.
3. The next step will take a little time. You did say you have a little time to save money?
Defrag. Put everything in the library on the same shelf so it can be accessed easily and quickly.
Go to control panel>performance and maintenance>rearrange items on your hard disc to make
programs run faster. Follow the easy directions, this will take some time. Let's get some coffee.
4. Windows Temp file folder - Go to Start> Run> Type in %temp% When the file appears,
highlight and select all items in the file and select Delete.
5. Next, Registry cleaner.I have to admit,I don't run mine as often as I should. Use caution here!
If you plan to perform this procedure, always create a restore point first! That's a must!
Any time you uninstall programs from your system, there are fragments left over in the registry.
I don't recommend this for normal maintenance. You can possibly remove something that
you really didn't intend to, and you will need to know enough about computers to put it back!
Unless you are having serious slowdown problems, it's best not to use a registry cleaner
unless you are aware of the procedures to re-install items you may have wanted to keep.
6. This may be a good time to mention this. Don't ever lose track of your Original factory
operating system installation discs. Don't ever buy a used computer without them. I hope
you never need them. They can be critically important to you in an emergency.
How do you like your brand new computer? Still has chocolate cookie crumbs in the keyboard,
but who cares. It's MY computer, and I fixed it all by myself ! Told you you could.
The remainder of this guide deals with navigating on eBay.
If you are new, welcome to eBay! This is the place to be
if you are looking for bargains in today's economy
or have items to sell for income growth
If you have a warehouse full or a garage full
If you are new, welcome to eBay! This is the place to be
if you are looking for bargains in today's economy
or have items to sell for income growth
If you have a warehouse full or a garage full
Once you get started, you will soon establish your own methods, some search by simply typing in the window to find categories, browsing all items available in a category, selecting by time ending soonest, price lowest first, etc. You really need no further assistance from me. eBay makes it so easy that even I have learned with step-by-step instructions on my own. Heck, I even learned to create my own little guide here. I certainly hope I have helped and not confused you. My intentions are good, and I surely appreciate you taking time to read this.
One last thing, and this is very important. If at any time you have a question, eBay will answer your e-mails or set you up with a chat. Be aware that eBay is world wide and very busy. The answer boards are comprised of volunteers, many very long-time users, who are available to give you a hand at any time. When you ask a question, do not use CAPS . They don't deserve to be yelled at.
Don't address them as though they were eBay,they are just people like you and me who are trying
to help one another. The Help pages are full of useful information on just about any topic you will
need. Just go to Help at the top of the page, click the tab and enter your question in the window.
Simple as that.
This concludes this edition. Did I happen to mention that I am from Texas, and bad about spreading
tall tales? You can be assured that the information I've given you is totally sincere, and you have my best regards. Have a happy time on eBay!
If any of the information in this guide has helped you better understand and properly care for your
computer, please take time to check the Yes button below. Thank you so much!
Grandpatex
.
One last thing, and this is very important. If at any time you have a question, eBay will answer your e-mails or set you up with a chat. Be aware that eBay is world wide and very busy. The answer boards are comprised of volunteers, many very long-time users, who are available to give you a hand at any time. When you ask a question, do not use CAPS . They don't deserve to be yelled at.
Don't address them as though they were eBay,they are just people like you and me who are trying
to help one another. The Help pages are full of useful information on just about any topic you will
need. Just go to Help at the top of the page, click the tab and enter your question in the window.
Simple as that.
This concludes this edition. Did I happen to mention that I am from Texas, and bad about spreading
tall tales? You can be assured that the information I've given you is totally sincere, and you have my best regards. Have a happy time on eBay!
If any of the information in this guide has helped you better understand and properly care for your
computer, please take time to check the Yes button below. Thank you so much!
Grandpatex
.
Guide created: 06/15/09 (updated 11/14/09)
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