January 30th, 2001
Rules of Computers
These rules are near universal truths for every computer I am aware of. By computer, I am referring for the most part to a personal computer, server, personal digital assitant, or some other useable device, as opposed to a circuit or chip, which while a "computer" in the strictest sense, is not what you and I likely think of when someone says "computer". They may help you determine why your computer is not functioning correctly, or they may just enlighten you.
- Computers, and the components that make them up, almost always function better when they have a source of power.
- Operation of a computer is greatly facilitated by turning it on.
- Foreign objects and materials do not improve the performance of computers.
- Computers will not communicate with other computers or devices unless there is a connection of some sort between them.
- It is much easier to control a computer when a functioning input device is connected to it.
- A computing experience is more rewarding when the machine has a working method of giving feedback.
- It is difficult to operate a system without an Operating System.
- Adding a piece of software or hardware to a functioning computer will seldom make it more stable.
- Reading an error message before dismissing it will never decrease your understanding of its cause.
- If a computer consistently functions properly for one person, but does not for another person performing the same task, the problem is likely the person.
- The problems with a computer can never be solved entirely through verbal abuse.
- If a computer crashes or behaves in a manner undesirable, you may rest assured knowing it is not because it hates you.
- Computers cannot process information without a processor, they cannot handle information without memory, and they cannot save information without a storage device.
- Increasing the number of running programs on a computer will not make a computer work faster.
- If the information supplied to a computer is inaccurate, the information the computer supplies you with will also be inaccurate. (Note: supplying accurate information to a computer in no way guarantees that information the computer supplies you with will also be accurate)