Chrome OS

Chromium, also known as the Chrome OS is the operating system that the chromebooks utilize. Below you will find tips and tricks for utilizing your chromebook.

Google Makes available a number of introductory videos that are helpful for getting started with your chromebook. You can find this and more videos by clicking HERE

Finding downloads and other files using the file manager:

  • The file manager contains your
    • Drive
    • Downloads
    • External Storage Devices (Like USB drives)
  • It can be accessed by going to the launcher and searching for FILES
  • For more details on managing files in the chromebook, watch the video to the right

The Snipping tool on Chromebooks:

  • The snipping tool in Windows allowed you to take screenshots of particular sections of the screen.
  • Chromebooks have a built in tool like this
  • It is accessed using the shortcut keys CTRL+SHIFT+F5 (The Switch Monitor Key on a Chromebook)

Apps vs. Extensions:

Apps are independent software that is installed on the chromebook as a separate tool or that are launched through the chrome browser

Extensions are installed on the chrome browser and modify its operation. They are typically designed to make tasks simpler and more productive, like saving images from Google search to drive.

Installing and Removing Apps and Extensions

Apps and Extensions can be installed from the Chrome Web Store:

  • Search for the app or extension
  • Click on the ADD TO CHROME button
  • Click on ADD when the install window appears

Apps and Extensions are removed individually:

  • Find the App or Extension in the Launcher or on the Chrome Browser
  • Right Click on the App or Extension
  • Choose REMOVE FROM CHROME

The Shortcut Key Menu and Help

To access all the shortcut keys you can press CTRL+ALT+? and an overlay will appear showing you what key combinations are available.

To get more detailed information about things letting setting up WIFI, you can press CTRL+SHIFT+? to access the Chrome help menu

Switching and Arranging Windows

When you have multiple windows open, there are two ways to easily access them:

  • You can switch between windows by holding the ALT key and pressing the TAB key to cycle through the open windows.
  • You can also "DOCK" windows by clicking in the window and then pressing CTRL and the LEFT BRACKET to dock on the left or the RIGHT BRACKET on the right.

One Search to Rule them All (The Chrome Launcher)

The Chrome launcher is a tool that allows you to:

  • Search for Apps
  • Look for files and folders in drive
  • Perform Google Searches
  • Locate recently visited websites

To access the Chrome launcher, click on the search button on the keyboard.

Connecting to An External Monitor

Connecting to external monitors or docking stations is easy:

  • Make sure your chromebook is open and on
  • Plug in the monitor or docking station
  • The chromebook should automatically detect the monitor and mirror the screen
  • Close the chromebook it will automatically enter docking mode (the connected monitor will still show your desktop)