Chromebook Guide

1. What is a Chromebook?

Chromebooks are similar to laptops. Unlike most computers, Chromebooks do not run Windows. Instead, they use Chrome OS, which is similar to the Google Chrome web browser. This means you can use a Chromebook to do just about anything you’d normally do online: read websites, check your email, and watch videos. Your Chromebook runs web apps instead of software programs used on other computers. Chromebooks are easy to use and everything is saved on the web, so you don’t have to worry about losing your files. Since Chrome is run entirely through the web, you don’t have to worry about viruses either!

2. Chromebook Hardware

Chromebook hardware may differ depending on Chromebook models. Please refer to the photo below regarding the keyboard.

On some models, the Power key is a Lock key. This key locks the computer and will require you to log back on. Look for the power button on the left or right edge of the base.

Your Chromebook keyboard works just like a regular keyboard, with a few small differences:

● Use the Search button to search your apps and the web

● To turn caps lock on or off, press Alt + Search

3. Powering on & off

Your Chromebook has a magnet in the screen which allows it to turn on right as it’s opened! If after several seconds it does not turn on, you can press the power button. You can press and hold the power button to shut off the Chromebook at any time. Shutting the lid will log you off.

4. Dashboard

In the lower right hand corner, there is a small toolbox for accessing WiFi networks, adjusting brightness, sound, settings, and setting accessibility settings such as enlarged cursors or high contrast screens. Feel free to access this at any time, though some settings are restricted by the RCAS administrators. It will look like this, but some settings and displays may differ:

5. Charging Your Chromebook

Your Chromebook should be charged every evening. While the battery life varies, your Chromebook should last for the entirety of instructional hours. Make sure that the Chromebook does not completely die as this can damage the battery.

6. Updates

Chromebooks are updated remotely from our IT department and are pushed out as quickly as Google tests and releases updates. If you see that an update is ready to be installed, please restart the device so the update will take effect

Using Your Chromebook

1. Logging On

Students must log on with their Excel Academy student email address and password provided by the teacher.

2. Connecting to WiFi

Before you log in, you may be asked to connect to a wireless network. Please connect to your home network. Chromebooks only fully work when they are connected to WiFi, though some apps may have an offline mode.

Chromebook Shortcuts

• Ctrl+C - Copy

• Ctrl+V - Paste

• Ctrl+X - Cut

• Ctrl+A - Select all

• Ctrl+Z - Undo

• Ctrl+T - Open a new tab

• Ctrl+Tab - Move between tabs

• Ctrl+ +/- - Zoom in and out.