Welcome to the Prescott Computer Society

A typical PCS meeting scene.

The Prescott Computer Society (PCS) is a PC-based users group located in Prescott, Arizona. Our primary attention is focused on IBM-compatible computers and associated software. We strive to provide personal, home office and small business computing solutions and presentation topics. You may obtain both basic and advanced information about computers by attending our club’s meetings.

We hold several meetings each month to show you how to get the most out of your computer. These consist of our General meeting as well as several Special Interest Group meetings. Anyone with an interest in computers is welcome to attend our meetings and join PCS. Owning a computer is not a requirement for membership.

PCS is a member of the Association of Personal Computer User Groups (APCUG) and the Arizona Alliance of Computer Clubs (AZACC). PCS members may access the AZACC User Groups Discount page here.

Interested in Membership?

Additional information about PCS is available at our About Us page. Also, check out the most recent issue of the "Messenger" which is our monthly newsletter. For information about becoming a member of PCS, please visit our Membership Information page or contact Dave Emery, our Membership chair.

Fun Stuff

A typical Q&A meeting chaired by some of our favorite PCS members. It's known as a "Stump The Geeks" session which is always enjoyed by all those who attend.

We often hold Question and Answer sessions at meetings at which our members attempt to "Stump The Geeks." Did they succeed? I guess you'll just have to come to a meeting to find out.

Actually, some of the questions are submitted in advance so we can come up with useful answers to our members' concerns. But that doesn't mean there won't be any surprises during the meeting!

Meeting Info

Unless otherwise noted, all meetings will be held in the Founders Room (1st floor) of the Prescott Public Library. The Library is located at 215 E. Goodwin Street, Prescott, Arizona.

Map to Library

This Week's Calendar

February 25 - Saturday - 1:00-3:00 PM
Special Topics SIG - Leader: JB Burke
Skill Level: Novice to Intermediate

Bob Ellis will begin with a short presentation on tech policy activities. These include:

1. Recent attempts to reduce copyright infringement on the Internet.
2. Court decides warrants are required before police can place GPS tracking devices on suspects vehicles.
3. Should lying on social networking sites be a crime?
4. Recent moves toward collecting sales taxes on online purchases.

As always, I'm open to suggestions for topics.

Then JB will delve into topics related to computer hardware, software, the Internet and the World Wide Web. You are sure to find something educational and/or entertaining and/or interesting in this fast-paced enjoyable session. As always, questions and comments will be welcome. After all, JB has to be learning something from these sessions too!

Future Meetings

March 3 - Saturday

There will be no PCS meeting today.

March 10 - Saturday - 1:00-3:00 PM
Digital Photo SIG - Leader: Phil Ball
Skill Level: Intermediate

Please note that this meeting will be held at the Alta Vista Senior Living Facility in Prescott. Map

Many aspects of digital photography will be discussed, including use of digital cameras and using Photoshop Elements to make your photos look their best.

March 17 - Saturday - 1:00-3:00PM
General Meeting - Leader: Ray Carlson
Skill Level: Novice to Advanced

Please note that this meeting will be held at Las Fuentes Resort Village in Prescott. Map

First Hour: PCS Annual meeting and elections for the Board of Directors.

Second Hour: Bob Gostischa from Avast Software will discuss using this well-known and FREE anti-virus software. Protecting yourself and your identity online: It's common wisdom that avoiding suspicious web-based content and especially "dodgy" websites will keep you safe on the Internet. Unfortunately, that sort of information is "old and outdated technology." Internet security (protecting both your computer and your identity online) can, however, be demystified.

This presentation focuses on normal computer users, rather than "IT geeks," and clearly explains security myths, Internet dos and don'ts, the evolution of computer threats, and more. Join presenter Bob Gostischa, as he simplifies, clarifies, and demystifies your computer, making your Internet experience a safe one and explaining why even AARP recommends avast!

March 24 - Saturday - 1:00-3:00 PM
Q&A SIG - Leader: Andy Reti
Skill Level: Novice to Intermediate

Topics to be determined.

March 29 - Thursday - 6:00-8:30 PM
Board of Directors meeting - Prescott Public Library; Elsea Room

All PCS members are welcome to attend but you are asked to first contact Ray Carlson in order to ensure that there will be room available for you.

March 31 - Saturday - 1:00-3:00 PM
Special Topics SIG - Leader: JB Burke
Skill Level: Novice to Intermediate

This month, JB will delve into topics related to computer hardware, software, the Internet and the World Wide Web. You are sure to find something educational and/or entertaining and/or interesting in this fast-paced enjoyable session. As always, questions and comments will be welcome. After all, JB has to be learning something from these sessions too!