Windows 10 has been out long enough now that most traders are using it rather than our former favorite, Windows 7. And if you’re following this blog, you’ll know I’ve been talking over the course of multiple blog posts about how to get more from your Windows 10 operating system.
Today’s post is a quick round-up of reminders for ways Windows 10 can make your trading day a little easier or productive. Take a look and see if there’s anything you might have missed or forgotten. If even one of these helps you, my job is done.
Create Desktop Shortcuts for Favorite Apps
For easy access, you can left click any program from the program menu and drag it to the desktop. It will create a shortcut for you automatically.
Record Your Screen
If you need to record your screen to explain something, you can use the built-in Xbox app. Just open the Xbox app, then use Windows+G to go the Game bar. Then click to Start Recording.
Access Internet Explorer
Microsoft Edge is the default browser for Windows 10. But if you are more comfortable with Internet Explorer, or you just miss the feeling of using it, go to the search bar and type Internet Explorer. It’s still there!
Type Less with Help from Cortana
Cortana is Microsoft’s answer to Apple’s Siri. You can use Cortana with your trading computer to make tasks easier. You’ll also save time on typing and have less discomfort in your arm.
Improve Security with Windows Hello
For traders who are worried about security (or busy little fingers in the household), Windows Hello can let you use fingerprints and Iris scan for login. But your hardware needs to be able to support this feature.
Troubleshoot by Restarting in Safe Mode
For resolving issues, you can restart your trading computer in Safe Mode. From the Start Menu, choose Shut Down Or Sign Out. Then press and hold the Shift key before clicking on Restart to restart in Safe Mode.
Quickly Switch Audio Sources
With the April 2018 update, switching between speakers and headphones is easier than ever. Click on the speaker icon in the taskbar, then on the up-arrow. You can select which output device you want and then change its volume independently of the other sources.
Organize Open Apps with Virtual Desktop
Windows 10 has a Virtual Desktop feature that lets you switch between groups of app windows. So you might have a research desktop and a trading desktop. Press Windows Button + Tab to create a new desktop.
Copy and Paste Faster
Even though the feature isn’t new to Windows 10, it’s still worth reminding. Use CTRL+C to copy and CTRL+V to paste text. It can speed up your execution during rush times.
Turn off Notification Sounds
Notification sounds can break your concentration during work and become an annoyance. Right click on the speaker icon on the taskbar, go to Sounds, and use the dropdown menu to change from Windows Default to No Sounds.
Download Maps for Offline Use
When you’re traveling around the world, internet connections can be unreliable. Downloading the maps to your trading laptop could be a good option. Go to Start Menu > Settings > Apps > Offline maps.
You’ll see a number of options for controlling map downloads. For the USA, you can download by state. To see your downloaded maps, select Maps from the Start Menu.
Save Your Laptop Battery
For traders using laptops, battery life is crucial. Go Start Menu > Settings > Battery saver tab to optimize your battery use.
Stop Notification Interruptions
If you’re a day trader, there might be a period of time during the day when you just don’t want to be distracted by notifications. In the notifications tray, right-click on the Focus Assist button, then Go To Settings. There are several good options here, including what type of notifications you want to pop up on your desktop and what times you don’t want to be disturbed.
Conclusion
It’s easy to get complacent about software once you’ve been using it a while. But this is the perfect time to take a second look and see what you might have missed the first time around. Take a moment today to think about and maybe try out at least one of these tips to make your trading day easier or more productive tomorrow.
There are more trading computer tips like this in our buyers guide. Check out our “How To Buy a Trading Computer” e-book.
Remember, we are here to help with all your technology related questions. If you think of additional questions about computer hardware or other questions, give me a call. My team and I are here to help. We’re happy to answer any of your questions about trading computers via phone: 800-387-5250