Computer/PC
Articles relating to any type of computer
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Windows 11 Guide: A New Era of Windows
PURPOSE Windows 11, the latest iteration of Microsoft's operating system, brings a fresh look and a host of new features and improvements. While it builds upon the foundation of Windows 10, it introduces significant changes that aim to enhance user experience and productivity. PROCESS Feature Windows 10 - Current Windows 11 - New User Interface Start Menu Classic start menu and taskbar Fluent design with new start menu and taskbar centered System Requirements (Minimum) 64-bit Processor with 1 GHz clock speed 2GB RAM 20GB Storage 64-bit Processor with 2 cores 4GB RAM 64GB Storage Widgets No integrated Widgets Integrated Widgets for quick access to information Virtual Desktops Virtual desktops with limited functionality Improved virtual desktops with snap layouts and new animations Touch controls Limited touch controls Improved touch controls for touch devices Gaming Performance Traditional gaming performance Improved gaming performance with Auto HDR and Direct Storage Microsoft Store Traditional Microsoft Store Redesigned Microsoft Store with support for Android apps Security Traditional security features Enhanced security features with Windows Hello and TPM 2.0 Multitasking Basic multitasking capabilities Snap Layouts and Snap Groups for improved multitasking Task Manager Traditional task manager Updated Task Manager with more details and options File Explorer Traditional File Explorer with limited features Redesigned File Explorer with a new layout and features Cortana Integrated into the taskbar Separated from search and no longer integrated into the taskbar Updates Similar update process to Windows 11 Automatic updates with fewer interruptions and improved control Compatibility Improved compatibility with new hardware and software Additional Changes: Enhanced Performance: Windows 11 leverages the latest hardware advancements to deliver faster boot times, smoother multitasking, and improved overall performance. Advanced Security Features: Microsoft has strengthened security measures in Windows 11 to protect users from cyber threats. This includes features like hardware-based security and improved threat detection. Microsoft Teams Integration: Microsoft Teams is deeply integrated into Windows 11, making it easier to communicate and collaborate with others. New Sound Experience: Spatial Sound and Dolby Atmos provide immersive audio experiences. Direct Storage: This feature allows games to load faster by directly accessing your high-speed SSD. Touch Improvements: Enhanced touch interactions and gestures make using Windows 11 on touch devices more intuitive. Gaming Enhancements: DirectX 12 Ultimate and Auto HDR offer better gaming performance and visuals.
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Links to password resets
PUPOSE You need to reset a password on Hotshop, the Marketing Supplies site, Wash Assist, or your Outlook email. PROCESS Hotshop Click HERE and follow on screen prompts Marketing Supplies Site Click HERE to open an email to request as password reset, include your name and department. Wash Assist Click HERE and follow on screen prompts Outlook Email Click HERE for instructions on resetting your password
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How to use the audio/video in MCU for presentations
PURPOSE The purpose of this document is to explain how to use the equipment in the MCU for presentations and meetings that are in-person and over Microsoft Teams. PROCESS To start a presentation to the projector screens, connect a laptop to the Surface Dock 2 docking station. The docking station is located near the south entrance of the MCU. NOTE: There will be several inlets near the docking station, as shown. The connected laptop will be where the audio from the microphone(s) will come from. The microphones are inside in a small black zip-up case located on the counter of the inlet where the docking station is. NOTE: There are two mics available for use and can be used at the same time. ` To turn the mic on, long press the power button on the mic. NOTE: Long press again to turn it off. To place the mic in standby mode short press the power button. NOTE: Short press again to turn off standby mode. The mic can be clipped to the collar or lapel of your shirt. This laptop will also provide the audio output for the Teams meeting. On the laptop press Windows + K to pull up screen share and share to the "MCU Projector" If a video of the presenter is needed a second laptop will be required. The second laptop should be placed at the front of the room facing the presenter, with the camera on. NOTE: If there does not need to be a video feed of the presenter, then only one laptop is needed. When finished with the presentation, verify the following: Both mics are turned off. Both mics are placed back in the black zip-up case. Disconnect both laptops from the Teams Meeting. Disconnect the laptop from the projector. Ensure all cables are put back in their original places If you have any questions, please contact Mister IT HISTORY Revised Date Revised By Revisions 8/24/2024 Josh Sparks Created Document 3/4/2025 Andrew Poskey Updated Formatting
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How to use the Logitech Rally conference systems
PURPOSE Follow the instructions below to share your computer screen and audio in a conference room. PROCESS Set the TV Input to HDMI 3 by pressing the TV Input button on the remote control and selecting the HDMI 3 option on the TV screen Once you are on the correct TV input, connect the two cables from the center of the conference room table, into your laptop ports. One is a USB cable that will activate the camera system. The other is a USB-c cable that will project your computer screen to the TV and provide audio After connecting both cables, launch the Microsoft Teams application. Once you are in the Teams application, join your meeting as you normally would. To change what shows on your displays, press Windows logo key+ P. Here's are the available options: PC Screen Only - Only shows on your laptop screen, not the TV Duplicate - Mirrors your laptop screen Extend - Allows both screens to be independent of each other, this is useful for PowerPoint presentations. Second Screen Only - Only shows on the TV IMPORTANT: If presenting any material that includes audio, be sure to click the “Include Computer Sound” toggle button when sharing your screen in Teams to allow sound to all meeting attendees. Remote Control Overview # Function Explanation 1 Bluetooth Pairing Pair the system with the computer Bluetooth 2 Answer Call Answer an incoming call 3 End Call Ends the current call 4 Mute Mic Mute the microphone 5 Zoom In/Out Zoom the camera in and out 6 Home Sets the camera back to default 7 Pan/Tilt Adjust the camera angle 8 Volume Up/Down Turns the volume up and down 9 Camera Presets Saved camera settings HISTORY Revised Date Revised By Revisions 2/17/2025 Josh Sparks Created Document 3/4/2025 Andrew Poskey Updated Formatting
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How to connect the ILO card on HP Servers
PURPOSE In the event of an issue with the server, Integrated Lights-Out (ILO) proactively notifies Mister IT, allowing Mister IT to troubleshoot it remotely, requiring minimal interaction with the on-site team. PROCESS Identify the Server in the IT Cabinet. On the back of the Server, plug in the Ethernet cable into the Ethernet port on the bottom left corner. Follow the steps below depending on which Network Switch you have: If you have a Dell Network Switch (black), plug the other end of the Ethernet cable into Port 32. If you have a Cisco Meraki Switch (gray), plug the Ethernet cable into Port 34.
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How to upgrade hard drive & memory on Dell Servers
PURPOSE Install RAM and secondary hard drive on the Dell Micrologic site servers. VIDEO EQUIPMENT NEEDED SSD HD 1TB RAM Sticks totaling 32GB SATA Cable Server PROCESS Schedule a Bookings appointment with a Mister IT Technician before store opening or after store closing hours using the link here to have them shutdown the server properly before proceeding. Disconnect all cables on the back of the server. Remember to take a picture to know where the cables are connected, we can put them back once the upgrade is completed. Lay the server on its side with the pull tab facing upwards. Pull the handle up and the slide of the case will come off. Put this aside for now. Remove the new drive from the packaging and slide it into an empty space near the current installed drives. Install the given SATA cable and plug it into the next available SATA slot on the motherboard. Connect the power cable. Find the existing RAM on the motherboard. Using your fingers, push down on the white tabs, this should pop the RAM up a bit so you can remove it. We will be using the white tabs ONLY for installing the new RAM. Install the new RAM by making sure the white tabs are open. Slide the new RAM and with pressure on both sides of the RAM, push down until you hear a click. Do this again for the second RAM stick. Reinstall the side panel. Place the server back in the IT Cabinet and reconnect all cables as they were before. Turn the server back on. Email Mister IT to have them enable the new drive and restore the database on the new drive. HISTORY Issue Date Updated by Revisions 2024-04-09 Yolanda Terrazas-Franco Format updated and grammar mistakes fixed.
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How to setup & install a Mister Learn training center
PURPOSE This document provides an overview of how to choose the best location for a Mister Learn training center. It also includes the training center kit contents and instructions for setting up the wiring, hardware, and furniture. SAFETY Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Electrical safety gear Dust control equipment (if drilling into masonry/brick) Area Assessment Installation can take place during operating hours Work area must be taped off with delineator posts to protect customers and employees PLACEMENT GUIDELINES Perform a walkthrough with the RM and GM to pick the best location for the training center. Wherever the training center is placed, you will need to be able to run wiring back to the IT cabinet. Keep in mind the following: The training center should be in the lounge and visible to customers. Do not place the training center in the manager’s office or in closets. It should not get in the way of windows or customer seating. It should add to the look of the lounge without making it feel cramped. Do not choose a location that will require you to damage wood paneling, permanent decorations, or the building’s architecture. If possible, avoid running wiring through brick walls. Place near an existing outlet or power source if possible (such as support poles), keeping in mind the above guidelines. One privacy panel is included in the training center kit, but you may need another panel to limit distractions (e.g., customers walking past). Email Training@mistercarwash.com to order another privacy panel. Indicate final placement by sticking the LCD screen placeholder on the wall. Special instructions, such as wiring notes, can be written on the placeholder with a Sharpie. NOTE: Installation should not start until after placement is finalized and approved by the RM and GM. Training Center Examples Use the pictures below for inspiration when considering where to place your Mister Learn training center. Notice how the examples use available empty space near doors and against walls that don’t have permanent fixtures or decorations. The locations are functional and visible to customers. TRAINING CENTER KIT CONTENTS WIRING AND HARDWARE SETUP Desk Assembly Begin by assembling the desk and placing it where you will be mounting the monitor. This will help you determine the proper height for the Cat 6 pass-through and monitor mount. The monitor should be approximately 7 inches above the top of the desk. The monitor mount should be approximately 9 inches above the top of the desk. NOTE: If the desk is chipped, missing parts, or damaged in any way, contact Training@mistercarwash.com to order a replacement Follow Mister standards by running the cable in the IT cabinet alongside other cables. This will make supporting these devices much easier in the future. Patch and paint the wall where needed. Installation—Receiver End Mount the monitor on either side of the Cat 6 inline pass-through so that the pass-through is concealed when the monitor is pushed back (see Figure 1). Mount the KVM receiver on the back of the monitor to the right side using heavy-duty Velcro so that the cable inputs are facing out (see Figure 1). Use the 3-foot Cat 6 cable to connect the receiver to the pass-through in the wall. Run the keyboard and mouse connections through the desk hole and then through the vertical space in the center mount before plugging into USB ports (see Figure 1). Run the monitor’s HDMI cable and USB cable into the KVM ports. Run the auxiliary cable from the KVM into the desk. Create a cable access on top of the desk where employees can plug in headphones. (see Figure 2). Installation—Transmitter End Place the Dell computer in the IT cabinet with the KVM transmitter on top, then connect the 1- foot HDMI cable and the 6-inch USB cable into their ports (see Figure 3). Run the 6-foot Cat 6 cable from the non-CDE port on the 48-port switch down to the Dell computer, also being sure to follow the same pre-established cable runs in the cabinet frame. If all non-CDE ports are taken, contact IT for support. Plug in the 12V power cable, then plug in the Cat 6 cable that was run to the training computer. A blue link light indicates a good connection. FURNITURE SETUP Place the cushion and chair cover on the chair. Place the keyboard and mouse inside the desk. To attach the privacy panel, you will need to drill guide holes into the desk before screwing on the privacy panel to avoid splitting the wood. The attached privacy panel should look like Figure 5. NOTE: This task is easier with two people. FINAL CHECKLIST Make sure that everything is working: The computer turns on The monitor turns on The touchscreen functions properly The keyboard and mouse function properly You can log in to Mister Learn using Internet Explorer as your browser Mister Learn courses function properly (e.g., videos play, animations play, etc.) After verifying everything above, lock up the keyboard and mouse inside the desk and give the key to the GM. If the key is lost, another store can make a copy. The Mister Learn training centers all use the same key.
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New Build Laptop Kits Overview
PURPOSE A New Build Computer Kit is sent to new build locations to support them prior to and during Go Live. This document outlines the kit components and what locations should do with it. PROCESS OVERVIEW OF KIT Upon receipt of your new build computer kit, which should arrive roughly 60 days prior to Go Live, you will receive a latched hard case with the following contents: Laptop that has been pre setup with your user account. Charger for the laptop. T-Mobile USB Modem. 2x Antennas for T-Mobile USB Modem. Laminated packing list. Once you pull the content out of the hardcase, please ensure to save all packing foam as you will need it to return the equipment after Go Live. SUMMARY OF DEVICE’S INTENDED USE Laptop and Charger Your laptop has been set up with your user profile. The password to your account should have been communicated to you prior to receiving this package but if you need assistance, you can contact Mister IT at MisterIT@mistercarwash.com. This laptop has O365 Suite which includes Microsoft Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, along with Adobe Reader, Teams, Chrome, and other common software remain functional before Go live. Mister Connect will be your homepage on Chrome. The desktop should also be pre-populated with links to Chrome River, Hotshop, etc. TMO (T-Mobile) USB Modem The T-Mobile USB Modem can be used by simply connecting to one of the USB slots on the right side of your device. This device has built in antenna’s that work for most situations but if your connectivity is poor, you can connect the included antennas to the T-Mobile USB Modem (explained below at point #2). NOTE: The USB modem has a 2GB monthly data limit. This device is to be used as a primary internet device at the New Build location. It should not be used if another internet option is available. For example, Wi-Fi and ethernet are preferred methods of internet connection at home or at other locations, to reduce the chances of overage charges. Antennas To connect your antennas to the USB device, start by popping off the back cover. You will see 2 removeable covers that open to TS9 male antenna connectors. You will need to pull the antennas out of the box, screw the antenna to the base then connect the TS9 female connector to the T-Mobile USB Modem (these are push down connectors, that sometimes require a little bit of force). Once connected, you can pop the back cover back on and position the antennas near a window or opening in the room, such as doorway, etc. The base of the antennas is magnetic, and can be mounted to a window frame, etc... Verifying your connection Once you have the T-Mobile USB Modem inserted into the laptop (with or without external antenna’s) your device will take a few minutes to establish a connection. The T-Mobile USB Modem should automatically connect, you can confirm the connection by clicking the wireless icon in the bottom right of your screen (where you connect to Wi-Fi) You should see a T-Mobile icon that says “Connected.” You can also confirm on the T-Mobile USB Modem’s digital screen, you will see a meter of data usage and time connected with connection strength in the top left corner, like the screenshot below. NOTE: Please remember, NEVER travel with the T-Mobile USB Modem in your laptop. This can cause potential damage to your computer and the T-Mobile USB Modem. It is always recommended to deconstruct the T-Mobile USB Modem and the antenna’s before transporting your laptop even a short distance. Returning your device after Go live: The IT tech on the install will retrieve this case from you after Go Live and ship back to HQ. Please make sure all contents are packed and ready for shipping. Your files on the PC will automatically be backed up to your OneDrive so you will be able to access them from the Manager PC after Go live. IT will assist with any questions you may have for accessing these files. HISTORY Issue Date Updated by Revisions 11-14-23 Ciera Clapp Branded document and updated it for publishing
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How to setup a laptop computer
PURPOSE This document explains how to set up a Surface computer. When you receive a new or replacement Surface computer, follow this guide to complete the checklist below: Set Up Monitors and Dock Station (remote HQ employees only) Log In to Your Computer Change Monitor Display Settings Change Default Apps Install Mister Fonts Customize Your Outlook Signature Install Applications: Airtame, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams PROCESS Prepare For Your Replacement Computer If you are getting a replacement computer, follow the instructions in the Backing Up Your Information document. You may want to take a picture of your settings (mouse, shortcuts, etc.) or desktop layout to reference when setting up your new computer. Setup Monitors and Dock Station NOTE: This section is for remote HQ employees only. Take the monitors out of the packaging and check for any damage. Make sure that the following parts are included: Stand (packaged with the monitor) Power cable (packaged with the monitor) Display cables (do not use the factory-supplied cables, use the cables shipped with the Mister equipment) Lay the monitor on a flat surface. Locate the two pieces pictured below and assemble the monitor stand. Slide the monitor stand into the monitor. Locate the power cable (left) and the display cable (right). Insert the power cable (left) and display cable (right) into the monitor. Unbox the Surface Dock 2, check for damage, ensure all parts are included: Reference the photo below of the dock when plugging in cords. Plug the power supply into the dock. Plug the power cord into the power supply and plug the other end into an outlet. Plug the display cable into your monitor. Plug the other end into the dock. Unbox your computer and check for damage. Plug the Surface connect cable into your computer. Login To Your Computer Press the power button on the keyboard. Click the Wi-Fi button and select “MCW” (or your home Wi-Fi). After connecting to the Wi-Fi, click “Other User”. Enter your email address and password to finish logging in. Change Monitor Display Settings Open the Start menu and select “Settings” or enter “Settings” in the search bar. Click “System”. In the “Display” section, click “Identify” to see which number each monitor is. Under “Rearrange your displays”, drag and drop each display to match the physical layout of the monitors. Click “Apply” to save the settings. Change Default Apps Enter “Default apps” in the search bar. Click “Default apps”. Click the icon under “Email” and choose “Outlook”. Click the icon under “Web browser” and choose “Google Chrome”. Install Mister Fonts NOTE: Be sure to use the Solitaire MVB Pro font when creating documents for Mister. Open the “Downloadable Font Files” folder. Open your “Downloads” folder. Right-click the .zip folder you downloaded and select “Extract All…”. Click the Extract button. When the folder with the fonts opens, select and copy all the fonts. Open the File Explorer app by clicking the folder icon. Navigate to the “Fonts” folder by searching “C:\Windows\Fonts”. Alternatively, you can follow this path: “This PC” > “Local Disk (C:)” > “Windows” > “Fonts”. Paste the copied files into the “Fonts” folder. Customize Your Outlook Signature Follow the instructions in the Email Signature Guidelines document. Install Applications Airtame Navigate to Airtame and download the Airtame app for Windows. Double-click the executable file to run it. An AutoElevate request will be sent to Mister IT. Once it is approved, a Windows Security Alert popup will appear. Select “Private networks” and click “Allow access”. Zoom Navigate to Zoom to download the desktop client. Click “Download”. Double-click the executable file to run it. Click “Done”. Sign up or sign in to Zoom to begin using it. Some vendors use Zoom for meetings. Mister does not provide an enterprise account. You will need to use your personal Zoom credentials. Microsoft Teams Navigate to Microsoft Teams. Click “Download Teams” under “Teams for work or school”. Double-click the executable file to run it. Install Microsoft Teams and log in. Save the custom background images from the Document Library to your computer. In Teams, click “More” and select “Effects and avatars”. Click “Add new” and select a background imaged saved in step 4. Select your background image and click “Apply”.
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How to install a replacement computer or touch monitor
PURPOSE If you receive a replacement Point of Sale (POS) Computer or POS Touch Screen Monitor, follow the steps below to install them. PROCESS POS Computer Replacement Unbox the Computer and power cable Plug in the HDMI cable to the POS Computer to connect it to the POS Monitor. Plug in the network cable to the POS Computer. Plug in the Epson Receipt Printer cable to the POS Computer. Plug in the Barcode Scanner cable to the POS Computer. Scan Barcode Scanner Setup Barcode using Barcode Scanner. NOTE: When the barcode scanner beeps 3 times in inclining tones, it is ready. Plug in the Credit Card Swiper cable to the POS Computer. If the old POS Computer has a speaker cord connected to it, connect it into the new one. Plug in the POS Monitor USB Touch Screen Cable to the POS Computer. Replace the existing power cable with the one you received. Plug it into the POS Computer and an outlet. The POS Computer will turn on automatically. If it doesn’t turn on automatically, press the power button on the front of it. The POS Computer will sign into the Staff account automatically. If it doesn’t, restart the computer. Contact Mister IT to verify that everything is functioning correctly. POS Monitor Replacement Unbox the POS Touch Screen Monitor (pictured left) and its power cable (pictured right) from the packaging. Remove the rear panel covers on the back of the POS Touch Screen Monitor. Connect the HDMI from the old POS Touch Screen Monitor to the new one. Connect the POS Monitor USB Touch Screen Cable from the old POS Touch Screen Monitor the new one. Replace the existing power cable with the one you received. Connect it into the POS Touch Screen Monitor and an outlet. The POS Computer will turn on automatically. If it doesn’t turn on automatically, press the power button on the front of it. The POS Computer will sign into the Staff account automatically. If it doesn’t, restart the computer. Contact Mister IT to verify that everything is functioning correctly.