How to Set Up and Start Using the iPad
Looking for a whole new way to explore the web, enjoy your media, and stay in touch wherever you are? Try the Apple iPad.
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You Will Need
- iPad
- Computer
- Latest version of iTunes
- iTunes account
- Wireless connection
Steps
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Step 1
Get started
Remove the iPad from its box, connect it to your computer, and activate it with the latest version of iTunes and your iTunes account. Then, transfer media and other information from your computer to your iPad to access files when you're on the go -- just like an iPod, iPod Touch, or iPhone.
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Step 2
Touch the screen
Eject the iPad from your computer and start using it! Press either the Home or Power button to turn on the 9.7-inch, interactive touch screen. Then, slide your finger across the screen to unlock the device and watch it automatically adjust its orientation depending on how you position it. Use the Lock button on the side to set your viewing orientation.
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Step 3
Go online
Connect the iPad to a local wireless network; then, tap Safari and use the built-in keyboard to start browsing the web. Want to scroll to the top of a page quickly? Tap the title bar. Need to zoom in or out? Spread or pinch two fingers over a given picture or piece of text.
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Step 4
Access your inbox
Use Wi-Fi to access e-mail on the iPad, too. Tap the Mail icon, input basic information, and load your inbox. Hold the iPad vertically for a full-screen view of one message or turn the device horizontally to show your inbox and messages simultaneously.
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Step 5
Entertain yourself
Tap Photos to view either individual pictures or entire photo albums; select iPod and Videos to access music, movies, and TV shows loaded from your computer or iTunes; and download Apple's iBooks app to build a virtual library you can read right on the device.
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Step 6
Keep discovering
Tap the App Store icon and find even more programs that use the iPad's interactive screen and high-speed processor to make it a truly useful and creative tool. Increase your productivity, become more media savvy, or just have fun -- with the iPad, there's a whole world of new technology to explore.