button performs secondary functions, such as changing
views and page sizes on the monitor.
The mouse fits neatly in the palm of your hand A
small ball at the bottom of the mouse helps it glide across
a smooth surface (such as a foam rubber pad). As you
move the mouse, its built-in circuitry creates a pointer
that lets you navigate the screen. By “pointing and
clicking,” you can move text, work on-screen menus
and perform a myriad of other functions.
Other useful peripherals to consider include the
stylus (similar to a mouse, but more precise), seamer
(converts printed text to computer text) and digitizer
(converts photographs, line art and other graphics into
forms that are readable by the computer).
SOFTWARE
The desktop publishing programs available on the
market today are similar in performance. Each program
can create everything from a four-page ship’s
newspaper to a single sheet, trifold welcome aboard
pamphlet.
Some of the functions of desktop publishing
software include the following:
l
l
l
Multiple page layout, including page num-
bering, columns per page, margin adjusting for
folds and staples and quick access to each page.
Typesetting, including different type styles,
fonts and sizes ranging from four point to 127
point.
Graphics, including boxes, lines, circles and
shading that can be made to various sizes, widths
and lengths. Some programs have a built-in clip
art file.
Look at the “big picture” before you purchase
desktop publishing software. It should be compatible
with your computer and be able to convert files from
your current word processing program. The software
should also have a good graphics file and a large
selection of type fonts from which to choose from.
Additionally, you should make sure classes are available
to train you and your staff about the program and its
inner workings.
This section has barely scratched the surface of
desktop publishing. You can get additional information
from the Navy Publishing and Printing Service,
Building 176-2, Washington Navy Yard, Washington,
DC 20374-1762.
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