Books

A+ Guide to Managing and Maintaining Your PC, Sixth Edition, Comprehensive

Average customer rating:

Good book, but needs improvement
The book can explain you the fundamental of PC.
Andrews comes through with flying colors!
I was forced to by this book due to class requirements...
Good info, poor organization.

A+ Guide to Managing and Maintaining Your PC, Sixth Edition, Comprehensive
Jean Andrews
Manufacturer: Course Technology
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Similar Items:

A+ Guide to Managing and Maintaining Your PC Lab Manual: Comprehensive
Lab Manual For A+ Guide to Managing and Maintaining Your PC: Enhanced
A+ Guide to Hardware: Managing, Maintaining and Troubleshooting, Fourth Edition
Mathematics: A Discrete Introduction
PC Troubleshooting Pocket Guide

ASIN: 0619217588

Book Description

Written by best-selling author and instructor Jean Andrews, this edition maps fully to CompTIA?s new 2006 A+ Exam objectives. This full-color guide is designed to be the most complete, step-by-step book available for learning the fundamentals of supporting and troubleshooting computer hardware and software. Video clips are available on the accompanying CD so readers can watch the author bring concepts and technical topics to life via live demonstrations.

Customer Reviews:

Good book, but needs improvement.......2007-04-05

I, like so many others, was required to have this book for two of my classes. While it is a very informative, useful book, it is not very well-organized and is very boring. The videos on the CD that comes with it is very helpful to understand a lot of the hands-on stuff. Many of the "Reviewing the Basics" questions at the end of the chapter cover a lot of pointless things that are not necessary to know, and there are always anywhere from 1 - 5 questions that I just absolutely cannot find the answers to. There have also been many things that a few of my PC tech teachers have found in the book that they would like to debate with the author about. Overall, it's still a good book, but you need a LOT of time and a LOT of patience, and you can't be the type that gets bored too easily with reading, to be able to successfully read this book. The only exception to these rules is if you are required by your teacher to have this book for class. :P

The book can explain you the fundamental of PC........2001-07-16

The book has 19 chapters and 7 appendixes. Chapters cover introduction to computer software, hardware, multimedia technology, viruses and as well as networking. In the appendixes you will find about ASCII Character Set, ANSI.SYS, The Hexadecimal number system and etc. Briefly this book is really handy one and written about mostly hardware components. When you read you will see it by yourself how handy it is. So i would say if you need basic computer reference then buy the book. Good Luck.

Andrews comes through with flying colors!.......2001-01-02

COMPTIA has started to update the A+ Exam and the new exam will be out in the first quarter of 2001. Having a book that gives you the newest objectives is certainly a plus and Jean Andrews has delivered the first book I have seen to cover the newest set of objectives.

The 1200 page book can be used as a self-study manual or in a classroom setting. Starting off with computer concepts and how software and hardware works gives the technician a great base to build on.

Andrews then covers the topics of system boards, memory, storage devices and troubleshooting the hardware side. This covers about 40% of the book. Andrews makes sure that the laser printer process and laptops get the needed coverage devoting chapters to each topic.

The networking sections are excellent and each area is covered with enough information to make sure that you can pass the exam. The software topics of Windows 9.X, NT and 2000 Professional are also given their due with excellent attention to detail.

With tables, figures, diagrams, review question, key terms, hands-on projects you have every objective covered and the best chance of getting a leg up on the rest of the IT community. The cd-rom included has a 120-day eval of Nuts and Bolts and a discount voucher is also included.

Again, Jean Andrews is leading the pack in making sure that future technicians are given every opportunity to climb the IT ladder. About the only thing left out is the software practice test, but overall this is an excellent place to start.

I was forced to by this book due to class requirements..........2000-10-13

This book is full of redundant sentences. If it wasn't for all the poor writing and organization, it would be about 15 pages long. I have considered burning this book on the writers front door step! Or just boinking her on the head with it. Please buy any other book except this one. I suggest A+ Cert guide by Michael Myers, It rocks.

Ms.MaddP

Good info, poor organization........2000-07-19

I have used "A+ Guide to Managing and Maintaining Your PC : Comprehensive" to study for A+ certification, to teach from as a textbook, and to develop a course using it as the text. It has strengths and weaknesses.

The main strength is the ease for which information is accessed.

By showing the A+ Exam objectives in the front matter and referencing each objective to specific pages as well as referencing the text in the margins, it makes it simple to study each objective individually.

The weaknesses become apparent when you try to use it as a study text for the A+ Certification Exam.

Though the exam objectives are referenced and noted on each page, the information is widely dispersed throughout the book. It becomes difficult trying to study while paging through the book to find related information. The A+ Certification Exam is divided into a "Core" exam and a "DOS/Windows" exam. "A+ Guide to Managing and Maintaining Your PC : Comprehensive" does not use this division.

To study for A+ you need to study from several sources. I would recommend "A+ Guide to Managing and Maintaining Your PC : Comprehensive" as an adjunct source but not as a main source of study material.

Seize the Work Day: Using the Tablet PC to Take Total Control of Your Work and Meeting Day

Average customer rating:

Excellent Resource on Tablet PC
Tablet PC book not for learning the Tablet
Good Reminder for Professionals
Should be sold with every tablet pc!
Great for the right work environment

Seize the Work Day: Using the Tablet PC to Take Total Control of Your Work and Meeting Day
Michael Linenberger
Manufacturer: New Academy Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Total Workday Control Using Microsoft Outlook: The Eight Best Practices of Task and E-Mail Management
How To Do Everything with Your Tablet PC
Complete Guide to OneNote
Microsoft Office OneNote 2003 Step by Step (Step By Step (Microsoft))
Absolute Beginner's Guide to Tablet PCs (Absolute Beginner's Guide)

ASIN: 0974930407

Book Description

Seize the Work Day describes using the Tablet PC to help the average office work-manager get control of his/her work day and become more productive. It paints a compelling picture of the Tablet PC as a very practical business tool, and assists the user in succeeding with the Tablet PC in such a setting.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent Resource on Tablet PC.......2006-08-24

I really like the author's approach, since he actually gives both relevant technical information and provides the practical business practice.

How-to books are "easy" to write... what Michael Linenberger does is fantastic and more technical books should be written with this dual perspective!

Tablet PC book not for learning the Tablet.......2006-07-05

This book is not for someone learning to really use the Tablet PC. It is about his system of organization and how to use the Tablet PC as a key device in organizing your life, as the title indicates. I was disappointed in the book overall as I was looking for a book that would educate the physicians I support in better use of the Tablet itself.

Good Reminder for Professionals.......2006-03-26

As I read the book it reminded me of all the things I should be doing to keep my work organized. The tablet PC is a great tool which I encorporated into my daily routine prior to reading. This book gave me helpful hints on how to do things effectively and efficently on my tablet. The book is written using the beta and initial version of the tablet PC tools. If you purchase you must download the updates of Chapters 3 & 4. This update gives a better understanding of the current tools of the tablet PC. It is worth the money in time saved.

Should be sold with every tablet pc!.......2006-03-09

Microsoft should package a copy of this book with every tablet sold! Good for personal and business productivity!

Great for the right work environment.......2006-01-03

I really enjoyed the book, and it was very helpful to me in getting up to speed on how to take advantage of the features of my new Tablet Convertible.

I think workers and executives who spend a large portion of their time in and out of meetings will get the most out of this book. As an independent contractor who spends 80 to 90% of of my time working at my desk in my home office, I felt a lot didn't really apply to me.

Also, the book really is outdated, now. He reviews the pros and cons of his recommended software tools -- but ALL of them have had significant upgrades since publication.

The author points to his website, where he promises updates as technology changes, but I only found a single updated chapter (really an article) that describes the major enhancement of SP 2 of Windows XP. It was a great article, but I was disappointed there was nothing about GoBinder (not mentioned in his book) nor the updates to OneNote, PlanPlus, and MindManager.

This book should be studied for ideas and concepts to consider and adapt, rather than followed as the ideal system.

Bottom line is that I got a lot out of this book, and I will now be more effective with my Tablet PC.

Average customer rating:

Great build instructions, lacks the final touch
Easy to Follow with Weak Web Support
Great up-to-date book.
Everything but . . .
Learn, Build, and Enjoy

Building the Perfect PC
Robert Thompson , and Barbara Fritchman Thompson
Manufacturer: O'Reilly Media, Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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PC Hardware Buyer's Guide: Choosing the Perfect Components
Build Your Own PC, 4th Edition (Build Your Own)
Build the Ultimate Custom PC
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How to Build Your Own PC: Save a Buck and Learn a Lot

ASIN: 0596526865

Book Description

This popular Build-It-Yourself (BIY) PC book covers everything you want to know about building your own system: Planning and picking out the right components, step-by-step instructions for assembling your perfect PC, and an insightful discussion of why you'd want to do it in the first place. Most big brand computers from HP, Dell and others use lower-quality components so they can meet their aggressive pricing targets. But component manufacturers also make high-quality parts that you can either purchase directly, or obtain through distributors and resellers. Consumers and corporations alike are opting to build rather than buy PCs to ensure high quality and compatibility.

The new edition of Building the Perfect PC shows you how to construct a variety of top-flight systems with the latest technology, including AMD Socket AM-2 and Intel Core 2 processors, that are Vista- and Linux-ready. The book includes several new options, including:

A Budget PC you can build for approximately $350 that offers performance and reliability similar to that of mainstream systems
A full-blown media-center system that runs Linux and MythTV or Windows MCE with multiple tuners and HDTV support
A fire-breathing high-performance gaming system
A fast, low-power, low-heat, low-noise, Small Form Factor system (the size of a shoe box)
A low-cost SOHO (small office, home office) server system with a 2 terabyte (2,000 GB) disk subsystem that's suitable for a residential environment rather than a server closet

Regardless of your technical experience, Building the Perfect PC will guide you through the entire process of building or upgrading your own computer. You'll use the latest top-quality components, including Intel's Core 2 Duo and AMD's Athlon X2 CPUs. And you'll know exactly what's under the hood and how to fix or upgrade your PC, should that become necessary. Not only is the process fun, but the result is often less expensive and always better quality and far more satisfying than anything you could buy off the shelf.

Customer Reviews:

Great build instructions, lacks the final touch.......2007-07-01

This is a great book. It got me excited as hell about building my own system. Since this was the first time I built a PC, I decided to pretty much follow very closely the bill of material listed as one of the options, but there were still some subtle differences that I had to sweat over. Many of the pictures of the motherboard, for example, were actually from a different engineering revision of the board that I bought, so the exact locations of connectors will be different from any board manufactured after mid 2007.

A note to one of the authors referred me to join a discussion website, which was a little disappointing since I believe the answer should have been known.

This book is very up to date, very insightful, it has tips and tricks that only can be learned after many years of experience, and is very well written.

I would recommend that a first time builder also buy Rosenthal's "Build Your Own PC". This book is a little more ancient, but it has interesting history about PC components, and it shows another point of view on the same subject. It also includes more info on the CMOS setup and installing the OS, which is just as important as the physical build if you want your computer for more than just a decoration.

Easy to Follow with Weak Web Support.......2007-06-29

The book is well written with excellent pictures and guidance. The short coming is the web link. The book refers to the web link for updated information on component selection. Unfortunately the vast majority of the information is dated.

Great up-to-date book........2007-06-26

I have just completed my first build, and I couldn't have done it without this book as a guide. Reading this, as well as all the installation guides from your parts, and you can't go wrong. They reference many different parts that have just come out into the market (some which I used personally). He also has a website that you can go to with Forums, which he is very good at answering posts by the way...)
My only wish is that he could help me with all the software once I finish, so that I can optimize completely and have a roaring computer! But this is on how to BUILD the computer, not run it. :) All in time I guess...

Everything but . . ........2007-06-08

The authors deliver a wealth of information in a format that is useable. Their hardware choices and why they made them make the book worth every nickel. Also the number of different types of machines you can build using the book makes this a "must have".

With that said, and considering I had never built a PC before, my first experience was longer and more difficult because of a lack of detailed instruction on turning the new machine on and booting it up the first time[s]. The motherboard I bought as part of a "bare bones" package (case, power supply and mobo) was probably a decent unit. The booklet that came with it was extremely short (part of 4 pages), the images were fuzzy and an critical piece of information was incorrect.

Turning the machine on, it shut off as predicted by the authors. Turning it back on as they said, the machine ran for about 10 seconds and shut off. Another reboot, the same thing. I attempted to clear the CMOS by jumping it as shown in the booklet. The next boot resulted in a "CMOS Checksum Bad". No tech support contact info in the booklet for the mobo resulted in me using another PC to access the CD that accompanied the mobo. Extremely poor resolution images that got even worse by zooming in were of little help. But there was the CMOS jumping procedure using an image identifying the "1" pin being the exact opposite of the way the booklet showed.

This book had basically no information on problems booting other than the point in each model build about initial powering up and why it would shut off. Buying another brand of mobo, the package arrived last night with an extensive manual with numerous clear illustrations plus very detailed sections of information on what each section does and how to set it up. I won't mention any initials here but if you think of buying a PC Chips mobo, stop thinking about it. They're junk and you do not get a refund even though their tech information disputes itself leaving one to wonder which was right.

Learn, Build, and Enjoy.......2007-04-06

This book provides a reader the opportunity to virtually look over the shoulder of an experienced (yet patient) computer builder, who takes the time to explain not only the mechanical steps involved, but also the background decisions and knowledge, that is, why a certain component was chosen over alternatives and why one step should be done before another. The writing style of the authors makes this book flow very well, and although people may be tempted to use it as a cookbook, reading only the "recipe" that matches the system they want to design, it is very beneficial (yet not necessary) to read the book straight through, perhaps lightly skimming the sections that are less relevant.

Even if someone never wants to build a computer, it can be very helpful to understand, for example, comparisons between different processors, hard drives, memory, and peripherals. The material in this book offers enough depth to understand the options offered with an off-the-shelf computer. It also makes the process of building a computer not merely a mechanical one.

The thorough explanations and photos in this book extend the instructions found in component user manuals, which are often difficult to understand. For example, this book shows clearly how to remove the plastic socket protector with the Core 2 Duo processor, which is somewhat tricky, but far less so with this book at one's side.

Unlike many other "build a PC" articles and books, the Thompsons' book focuses on price/performance ratios and affordability; for example, the budget PC here can be built for around $350, and even the highest-end machine isn't as expensive as those in other books. The designs here are flexible, and each one has a list of alternative suggested components, so price-conscious builders have even more options to consider (highly valuable during the price wars, for example, between AMD and Intel in the processor market).

Given the advantage in price of a "hand-made" system versus a "factory-built" one, this book can pay for itself quickly. The machine that I just built cost roughly $900; the most comparable Dell is $1229. In my experience, building my own systems saves 20-30% against the prices of mass-market vendors, even when using better components than theirs. I have no doubt as to the difference in quality, and building a machine is far more educational and enjoyable than just pulling a mass-market system out of a cardboard box.

Average customer rating:

Worth the money
Not a technical manual
Would recommend this book
Very Practical,Funny,To the Point.
PC Annoyances

PC Annoyances, Second Edition
Steve Bass
Manufacturer: O'Reilly Media, Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Internet Annoyances: How to Fix the Most Annoying Things about Going Online (Annoyances)
PC Hardware Annoyances: How to Fix the Most Annoying Things about Your Computer Hardware (Annoyances)
Windows XP Annoyances for Geeks, 2nd Edition
Windows XP Power Hound: Teach Yourself New Tricks
PC Annoyances

ASIN: 0596008821

Book Description

In every PC user's life, there's a point when desperate measures must be taken. Some push their PC off a pier or chuck it into a landfill. Others turn their former computing ally into a planter box. But don't give up on your PC yet--help is at hand. This easy to read, accessible book from PC World expert Steve Bass covers the waterfront of PC gripes and gremlins, with fixes for everything from Windows glitches to browsers that won't browse. Each fix is served up in bite-sized portions for quick reading--and even quicker fixing. A revised version of its best-selling predecessor, the 2nd edition offers 50 additional pages and over 120 new fixed annoyances. This reader-friendly book tackles problems related to a wide-ranging number of topics:

Windows--King of Annoyances! learn how to kick Windows in the rear, overcome glitches, take charge of the interface, live with the dreaded Service Pack 2
Hardware--wake up your DSL, tame your notebook, silence your PC's fan, work wonders with your scanner, and save paper
Email--from Outlook to Eudora! Defeat spam, avoid mailing list hassles, send big files, manage folders
Microsoft Office--learn workarounds for Word, Excel, and PowerPoint that help you back up the unbackable and automate data entry
Internet--shake up IE, stop Flash, outsmart defaults, control Favorites, add the Google toolbar to Netscape

Plus, you get access to more than one hundred utilities that will help you squash bugs, enhance your email, untangle a system snarl, and much more. If your PC has ever annoyed you (do we see several billion raised hands?), PC Annoyances is for you. With the flip of a page or two, you can fix that faux pas and have your PC purring again.

Customer Reviews:

Worth the money.......2007-02-25

I was so impressed by this book when I checked it out from the library I realized I had to have a copy of my own for those times when problems crop up that drive me toward the deep end. This book does what it claims. Though it won't answer all of your problems (what book would), it's easy to understand and can provide simple solutions to what seem like complex problems. It also gives the reader various references and free helpful programs on-line. I highly recommend it.

Not a technical manual.......2007-02-03

OK for the nontechnical XP users. Most of these hints have been published elsewhere but it is a nice collection.

Would recommend this book.......2006-08-15

I love the format Steve Bass uses while writing
about computer annoyances. Many of the tips and solutions
can save you frustrations that are always there even in
a minor way because you may not know how to fix them.

Very Practical,Funny,To the Point........2006-07-17

After slogging through books on W2KPro/XPPro that are painful to read and no help unless your running 100+ PC's this book was a welcome relief in it's smarts,humor,and direct approach to fixing many of the challenges presented by the above mentioned OS's. Having one of my usual sleepless nights I started tallying up all the money I spent trying to keep MS software running,protected from hackers,bots,spyware,virii worms and it's own predisposition to fail and I realize that with an entire industry built around sloppy software as the norm and a gov't asleep at the antitrust wheel we're not likely to see a real improvement any time soon. When you hear words like regulation stifles innovation reach down and make sure you still have your wallet because it's about to be plundered. It's always about the money. If I had to spend another $25 to have this book included in the box that MS/OS came in then I would've saved hundreds on books that did'nt meet my needs and priceless amounts of lost time.

PC Annoyances.......2006-02-28

This is not the usual boring computer book. Just the opposite.
I'm reading it the second time with a felt tip marker. After reading a chapter I go to my computer, explore, and make changes. I've learned more reading this book than any other computer book I've purchased. And it's written so the average computer user like me can understand.

IT Essentials I: PC Hardware and Software Companion Guide (Cisco Networking Academy Program) (2nd Edition) (Companion Guide) (Companion Guide)

Average customer rating:

Glaring errors abound, both technical and grammatical
Cisco lends a helping hand to the new folks of the IT world.

IT Essentials I: PC Hardware and Software Companion Guide (Cisco Networking Academy Program) (2nd Edition) (Companion Guide) (Companion Guide)
Cisco Systems Inc. , and ABC Inc.
Manufacturer: Cisco Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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HP IT Essentials I: PC Hardware and Software Lab Companion (Cisco Networking Academy Program) (2nd Edition) (Lab Companion)
Cisco Networking Academy Program IT Essentials I: PC Hardware and Software Engineering Journal and Workbook
Cisco Networking Academy Program IT Essentials II: Network Operating Systems Companion Guide
CCNA 1 and 2 Companion Guide, Revised (Cisco Networking Academy Program) (3rd Edition) (Companion Guide)
Cisco Networking Academy Program IT Essentials II: Network Operating Systems Engineering Journal and Workbook

ASIN: 1587131366

Book Description

The only Cisco authorized textbook that supports the HP IT Essentials I: PC Hardware and Software online course within the Networking Academy

Portable desk reference that compliments the online course
Written by the developers of the online course - information straight from the source
Accompanying CD-ROM contains interactive e-Labs, practice test questions for the CompTIA A+ exam, and more

The HP IT Essentials I: PC Hardware and Software online course and the CompTIA A+ certification exam revised in late 2003. Cisco Press published a supplement to assist with these revisions that is automatically bundled with the first edition of the Companion Guide. The Second Edition of the IT Essentials I Companion Guide incorporates all the information from the supplement and includes additional material that complements the revised HP IT Essentials I online course. The Companion Guide is a portable desk reference of the course material that can be used anytime, anywhere. The textbook is designed to reinforce the material in the course, help the student focus on important concepts, and to organize their study time for exams.

Customer Reviews:

Glaring errors abound, both technical and grammatical.......2003-12-22

I went through this text chapter by chapter. I worked it fully as part of an A+ curriculum at a Career Technical School, including accompanying workbooks, labs and online testing through Cisco's Net Academy. Therefore, I believe I'm very qualified to give it a worthy review. So here goes...

I'll start off with the good stuff. The book did prepare me for the A+ certification tests; though I'm glad my school program didn't expect it to carry the educational burden all on its own. The Cisco text was all that was offered for the hardware portion (it's a balance of hardware and software information). In addition, our class worked a two book set from ElementK, which was excellent.

Now back on track: I feel that the Cisco program is headed for providing a fine tutorial for computer geeks to be. In my opinion it presented important knowledge in good order, understandable language and context. It's got potential.

The problem is that it appears to be a *very* rough draft that was rushed out to market and never edited again. It is stacked to the brim with miscaptioned images, confusing sentences, tested or reviewed information that's never covered in the chapter being quizzed. There are plain technical screw-ups where incorrect and sometimes dangerous information is given. In short, I'm very glad I came into it having a comfortable relationship with PCs, because, otherwise, I might have damaged something along the way, or burned the book as a sacrifice to the gods of better editing.

Don't give Cisco your money. They're trying to pawn an alpha test off on you as a functional product.

Cisco lends a helping hand to the new folks of the IT world........2003-06-25

At first glance, I was a little shocked to see Cisco Press publish a book titled,
I.T. Essentials 1: PC Hardware and Software Companion Guide. After all, this is a company in which its name is synonymous with routers and switches. However, this book is intended for those folks who are just starting out in the I.T. world and those of who are attending an Authorized Cisco Network Academy. That does not mean that you have to be a student of an Academy to grasp the practices and concepts packed in this guide.

This book was designed for individuals who want to understand the workings of a computer, both hardware and software. I.T. Essentials 1 does a great job in covering the basics of computers while teaching you how to prevent, maintain, and troubleshoot both hardware and software issues. The companion guide is laid out in the normal Cisco Press fashion we have grown accustom to - starting out with the chapter objectives and ending with a chapter summary and "Check Your Understanding" review questions.

As expected, I.T. Essentials 1 is packed with screenshots, figures, and diagrams to help illustrate the information clearly. For those of you who wish to pursue their A+ certification, this book will not disappoint you. All thirteen chapters are dedicated to help you achieve your CompTIA A+ certification.

The accompanied CD-ROM contains three test engines as well as interactive labs, videos, and PhotoZooms. For individuals studying for the CompTIA A+ exam, supplemental material includes a certification map that correspond the books chapters to the A+ exam objectives.

One thing I did find disappointing with the book was the organization, you're the lack there of. The chapters appear to be in no particular order. I found myself jumping around from one topic to the next and then back again. However, this would hardly be a reason not to purchase this book.

In the end, I felt Cisco Press; et al did a great job in relaying the information clearly. Weather you are a student at an Authorized Cisco Network Academy, an individual just starting out in the I.T. world, or someone who is studying for their CompTIA A+ certification I.T. Essentials 1: PC Hardware and Software Companion Guide will not disappoint you.

Build Your Own PC, 4th Edition (Build Your Own)

Average customer rating:

A solid reference
What a great book!
Build your own PC
A great read
Good Start for beginers

Build Your Own PC, 4th Edition (Build Your Own)
Morris Rosenthal
Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill Osborne Media
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Building the Perfect PC
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How to Build Your Own PC: Save a Buck and Learn a Lot

ASIN: 0072255595

Book Description

This visual how-to manual is loaded with photographs and images to help you see exactly how to assemble from scratch--or simply upgrade--your PC easily. Organized in three main sections, this easy-to-follow guide will lead you through making preparations to build your PC, which includes guidance selecting and purchasing the right parts. Next, you’ll learn how to build the actual computer, including internal components, and finally, there’s a section on maintaining and troubleshooting, to help keep your creation on its best behavior.

Customer Reviews:

A solid reference.......2006-11-08

This is probably the best "how-to" book on home PC building. Most are either too specialized (case modding, fancy cooling solutions, etc) or too basic (pick a motherboard... pick a CPU... put them together... The end!), but this work is just right. It is very informative, even to someone who considers themselves a very experienced PC user, yet remains straightforward, and anticipated many common concerns. The only downside is that this type of book is out of date very soon after publication. This volume only covers Pentium 4 and Athlon 64 systems, but obviously doesn't include the new Socket 775 Core 2 Duo processors from Intel, or the socket AM2 Athlon X2 from AMD. That said, I recommend the book and the author very highly.

What a great book!.......2006-04-11

I bought this book because I wanted to build a computer but was a little nervous about doing it. This book tells you everything you need to know and gives you the confidence to build your own pc. My pc build went flawlessly and I have this book to thank for it. The illustrations are very helpful and informative. I had a general knowledge of computers but had never built one from scratch. This book is great for people that don't have much experience with computers because it explains everything in detail, describing all of the parts and has 3 different build configurations. Pretty much everything is covered between the 3 different build so that no matter what kind you will build, it will be covered in this book. I highly recommend this book.

Build your own PC.......2006-03-09

This is the best book of its kind I have read, and it describes fully what you need and what to do with the equipment..
It's 5 star to me......

A great read.......2006-02-23

This is a very helpful book to those who want to learn to build a pc. It has somewhere near to 200 illistrations to help guide you along, and it is easy to read.

Good Start for beginers.......2005-11-15

This is a good start for somebody who never build a PC before, and give you and idea on where to start and what to do. This is a typical "Hows to..." book and I'll recomended it.
Michael Da Cruz
California

Building a PC For Dummies (Building a PC for Dummies)

Average customer rating:

Good enough for a beginner
Superficial, dated
Computer building for the hardware technophobe...
Great book, do the job yourself!
Any similar alternate book would be better.

Building a PC For Dummies (Building a PC for Dummies)
Mark L. Chambers
Manufacturer: For Dummies
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

PCs | Hardware | Computers & Internet | Subjects | Books

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Upgrading & Fixing PCs For Dummies (Upgrading & Fixing Pcs for Dummies)
Build Your Own High-Performance Gamer's Mod PC
Troubleshooting Your PC For Dummies (For Dummies (Computer/Tech))
PC Hardware Buyer's Guide: Choosing the Perfect Components
Build Your Own PC, 4th Edition (Build Your Own)

ASIN: 0471767727

Amazon.com

By buying components and assembling them yourself, you can save a little money and gain a lifetime of free technical support. Building a PC for Dummies removes the intimidation factor from building your own Intel-based personal computer, explains what you need, and shows you how to put everything together. It's a fine place to start if you've never assembled your own machine before and want to give the process a try.

Author Mark L. Chambers describes what to look for when shopping for components, but he refrains from recommending any specific models or manufacturers. Building a PC for Dummies would be stronger if he had made such recommendations, the way Tom's Hardware Guide does. Even without a specific shopping list, this book makes it possible for a novice computer builder to make informed decisions about motherboards, processors, storage devices, expansion cards, and input devices.

Chambers presents the assembly process logically, explaining how to install a component or two at a time while performing incremental testing. He includes troubleshooting information in each component's section, but it's odd that he puts his discussion of operating systems in an appendix--most system builders will want to see their creations run as soon as possible. --David Wall

Topics covered: Buying and building a PC; selecting motherboards, processors, storage devices, expansion cards, and input devices.

Book Description

Shows tech hobbyists how to build the perfect PC, whether they want to create the ultimate gaming machine or combine new and recycled parts to construct an inexpensive computer for a child
The do-it-yourself craze is sweeping through the tech community, and this guide is now significantly revised and updated to cover the wide array of new hardware and accessories available
Step-by-step instructions and dozens of photos walk first-time computer builders through the entire process, from building the foundation, and adding a processor and RAM, to installing a video card, configuring a hard drive, hooking up CD and DVD drives, adding a modem, and troubleshooting problems

Customer Reviews:

Good enough for a beginner.......2006-06-03

I am the typical "dummy" when it comes to computer hardware. But, I managed to build my first PC with the guidance from this book. You will not become a professional but will gain sufficient knowledge for you to learn the mechanics of assembling your own computer. The book also includes a glossary that serves as a useful reference tool.

**Sufficient information explained in an easy-to-understand manner**

Superficial, dated.......2006-02-20

I found this on the "new books" shelf at the local library and took it home for a look-see.

I must say, I was disappointed. This book will not help anybody build a computer. The information is superficial and dated. There is a shortage of illustrations (NEED LOTS MORE PHOTOS!)

Now, I have indeed built my own computer, but that project would have been a disaster if this book had been my guide. Instead, I heartily recommend "Building the Perfect PC" by Thompson. (Interestingly, the blurb on the front cover of this Dummies book says "Build the perfect PC..." Coincidence? I think not). Less than a year ago, the Thompsons' book WAS my sole source, my cookbook for how to put together a computer, and it covered all the gotchas encountered in the process. It has abundant photos, and they're in color. With the rapid pace of computer development, even that is showing its age, and the authors aren't updating their web site as promised, but it's still leaps and bounds ahead of this "For Dummies" book.

Computer building for the hardware technophobe..........2005-11-04

(This is a review of the 5th edition)

I'll admit it... I buy my PCs when I upgrade. I'm getting more at ease with hardware since I've started doing all these book reviews, and I probably *could* build a PC now without too much angst, but I still buy. But if I were to decide that my next PC would be "home-built", I'd be comfortable with using the book Building a PC for Dummies by Mark L. Chambers.

Contents:
Part 1 - Can I Really Do This?: What's in a Computer, Anyway?; What Type of PC Should I Build?
Part 2 - Building Your PC: Building the Foundation - The Case and Motherboard; A Bag of Chips - Adding RAM and a CPU; The Three PC Senses - Ports, Mouse, and Keyboard; Images "R" Us - Adding Video and a Monitor; Make Room! Your Hard Drive and Other Storage Devices
Part 3 - Adding the Fun Stuff: Putting the Spin on CD-ROM and DVD; Let Your PC Rock!; Modems and the Call of the Internet
Part 4 - Adding the Advanced Stuff: Attack of the SCSI Monster; So You Want to Add a LAN?; Life in the Fast Lane with Broadband; Input and Output - Scanners, Cameras, Video Capture, and Printers; More Power User Toys
Part 5 - The Part of Tens: Ten Reasons Not to Buy a Retail PC; Ten Tools and Tasks for a Power User's PC; Ten Important Assembly Tips; Ten Ways to Speed Up Your PC; Ten Things to Avoid Like the Plague
Part 6 - Appendixes: Choosing Your Operating System; Glossary
Index

This book is most likely going to appeal to the hardware-phobic computer owner (like I was for quite awhile) or the first-time PC builder. Chambers has an amusing writing style which will make you smile as you figure out the next steps to take in your PC adventure. If you've already built a PC or you dwell in the land of needing to know every last technical spec of a device before you install it, there's probably not much here to offer you. Even I know most of the material *about* each device and what type of rationale you should apply (buying new vs. refurbished, why hard drive capacity is important, RAM is king, etc.). My downfall would be actually having all those devices spread out on a table with an empty computer case in front of me. But I'm pretty confident that I'd be able to stand a pretty good chance of getting everything to actually work the first time if I followed the information here. There's even a center section with color pictures to show you what to expect. It's a nice touch...

If you're looking for an approachable book on getting past your first computer build, this one would be a good choice. Easy to follow, fun to read, and the intimidation factor is nonexistent.

Great book, do the job yourself!.......2004-06-19

Even though it's a little harder to save money on a bare bones PC, this book will help you build a game player's dream PC for much less than those models you find in the back of PC Gamer. This book covered everything I needed with recommendations on what to buy. Pick this one up, you won't be disappointed.

Any similar alternate book would be better........2004-03-18

While I was reading/assembling my computer I found the book to be poorly written, with not nearly enough specific info. I was very frustrated, and needed to purchase a different book to correctly assemble my rig. Since then I've read 15-20 other books related to computer hardware/software/networking affording me a fair amount of perspective. This book ranges from badly outdated general info. to just plain incorrect info. I can say now with confidence that using only this book as a reference will almost guarantee an improper assembly of your computer. You will be frustrated and you will probably waste a decent amount of money.

Troubleshooting Your PC For Dummies (For Dummies (Computer/Tech))

Average customer rating:

To the point
My grandson liked it.
I hate raining on the parades
Great choice as a first line of reference to fix things...
A must-have book for Windows users!

Troubleshooting Your PC For Dummies (For Dummies (Computer/Tech))
Dan Gookin
Manufacturer: For Dummies
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Maintenance, Repair & Upgrading | Hardware | Computers & Internet | Subjects | Books

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Upgrading & Fixing PCs For Dummies (Upgrading & Fixing Pcs for Dummies)
PCs All-in-One Desk Reference For Dummies (For Dummies (Computer/Tech))
Cleaning Windows XP For Dummies
PCs for Dummies, Ninth Edition
PCs For Dummies (Pcs for Dummies)

ASIN: 0764577425

Book Description

Targeting the snags, glitches, and predicaments cited most frequently by readers, bestselling author Dan Gookin clearly explains how to diagnose and cure common PC problems, whether they originate with software, the operating system, or hardware
This updated edition features new, expanded coverage of laptop woes as well as Internet and e-mail issues, broadband connections, spam blocking, and security concerns
Provides advice on how to prevent PC problems in the first place and create a safe and secure PC environment
Dan Gookin is known for his ability to explain technology in an easy-to-understand and enjoyable fashion; his writing style, name, and reputation are unparalleled in the industry

Download Description

Targeting the snags, glitches, and predicaments cited most frequently by readers, bestselling author Dan Gookin clearly explains how to diagnose and cure common PC problems, whether they originate with software, the operating system, or hardware
This updated edition features new, expanded coverage of laptop woes as well as Internet and e-mail issues, broadband connections, spam blocking, and security concerns
Provides advice on how to prevent PC problems in the first place and create a safe and secure PC environment
Dan Gookin is known for his ability to explain technology in an easy-to-understand and enjoyable fashion; his writing style, name, and reputation are unparalleled in the industry

Customer Reviews:

To the point.......2007-04-14

Troubleshooting your PC for dummies, was very easy to read and the information will be very helpful.

My grandson liked it........2006-11-06

My grandson, age 14, is the real computer nerd in the family. I gave this to him as a gift. It must be good because he said it really helped.

I hate raining on the parades.......2005-07-16

This is a very good book for troubleshooting, and if you think you could use this, you probably could. Do you know how to defrag a hard drive? If not, this is for you (it's easy, really).

I got this book because I live in Korea, and my new computer came with Windows XP in Korean; I'd never used XP before, so figuring it out in addition to the Korean was too much for me. I wanted to try this before shelling out for an English OS, and this appears to be good enough. I've been able to figure out almost everything, without even knowing the language that my OS is in. So if you feel like your computer is speaking in a foreign language, well, this book is for you!

Seriously, though, I've decided to pick up PCs for dummies as well, just because there are still a few things I can't figure out, and a lot of the information is interesting to me, and after all, I can't read anything on my OS. If I were you, I'd check out that book before deciding to buy this one. Fortunately you can browse them pretty thoroughly here on Amazon before laying down your money.

Great choice as a first line of reference to fix things..........2005-04-11

[2nd edition review]

If you need this book, you're probably crying or swearing. But Troubleshooting Your PC For Dummies By Dan Gookin (Wiley) will help you solve the problem while putting a smile back on your face.

Chapter List:
Part 1 - What the @#$%&*!?: It's Not Your Fault! Well, It Might Be Your Fault; Stuff to Try First; Telling a Hardware Problem from a Software Problem; The "R" Chapter (Reinstall, Restore, Recycle, Recovery); Your Last Resort: Tech Support
Part 2 - Troubleshooting Minor Irks and Quirks: This Just Bugs Me!; Gosh! This Is Embarrassing!; Startup Problems; Finding Lost Files and Things; Sounds Like Trouble; The Mystery of System Resources (and Memory Leaks); The Slow PC; Keyboard, Mouse, and Monitor Dilemmas; Printer Problems; Dealing with Disk Disaster; Correcting Graphic Disgrace; Internet Connection Mayhem; Web Weirdness with Internet Explorer; E-Mail Calamities with Outlook Express; General Windows Disruptions (Or, Is This PC Possessed?); Windows Can Be Your Friend; Shutdown Constipation
Part 3 - Preventive Maintenance: Maintaining Your Disk Drives; Useful Tools and Weapons; The Benefits of Backup
Part 4 - The Part of Tens: The Ten Rules of Tech Support; Ten Dumb Error Messages; Ten Things You Should Never or Always Do
Appendix: Windows Startup Program Guide
Index

Even though I've been in Information Technology for over two decades, I generally don't do well at PC or Windows troubleshooting. I design business software, and I basically want my hardware and operating system to just work. While I've gotten better at troubleshooting, I'm still interested in any help I can find. Gookin does an excellent job in targeting the specific areas that are most likely to go haywire on your home or work PC, and he then gives you some of the more common approaches to resolving those problems. In addition, he also helps you to take ongoing steps to make sure your PC stays functional and clutter-free for as long as possible. Following the information in this book, there's a relatively good chance you'll be able to extricate yourself from a number of blunders or problems before you start teaching your children new words that shouldn't be repeated in public.

Long-term hardware techies or software/OS geeks will probably know most if not all of this information already. But this is the type of book I could conceivably give my dad in order to help him fix some of his own computer problems when I'm not around. Or he can have it on the shelf so *I* can use it when I show up to fix whatever he did. Either way, this book is a perfect first line of defense and reference when you're desperately trying to resurrect your great American novel from the dead...

A must-have book for Windows users!.......2004-05-22

Containing great humor and experience(!), this book is written mainly for users of Windows XP/ME/and 98, although users of Windows 95/NT/and especially 2000 will find that most of this 1st edition still applies. 2nd edition= XP exclusively. Dan Gookin wrote the original Dos for Dummies book- all Dummies books started with him! Chapters 1-5 cover the basics, with 6-and-on being intense! This is the strength of the book: hands-on, down & dirty problem solving! Solutions include: getting around in Windows; minor irks & quirks; slow PC; audio-video; startup-shutdown; keyboard, mouse, monitor & printer; disk disaster; internet connection; Internet Explorer; Outlook Express; general Windows disruption- too much to list here! (This is mainly a software-related book- for an intro to detailed hardware-related issues, I highly recommend Upgrading & Fixing PCs for Dummies by Andy Rathbone, or for advanced issues Scott Mueller's Upgrading & Repairing PCs). My favorite thing here: Registry Editing 101! Many books mention the Registry- Dan actually walks you through some basic, yet sometimes necessary, editing procedures in a few very specific instances. This is beyond basic info, and is downright technical in nature. It's insane how much information he's crammed into one book! Finishing Chapters include PM- preventive maintenance- for disks in general, and using Backup. I use Norton Ghost for Backup myself- I can't stress enough how great it is! You can get it with Norton AntiVirus too if you purchase SystemWorks 2003 Professional (my favorite!). They're all worth their weight in gold(!). To Dan Gookin: In a good-natured way, I recommend Argument 4 in favor of reinstalling Windows: it brings peace of mind! With all the latest Internet threats today in the news- Viruses, Worms & Spyware- some people just don't trust that their computers are clean & secure without the reinstalling of Windows(!). Of course, with the proper use of disk imaging/backup software, this really shouldn't be an issue, but some people never get around to this kind of PM. Some people may not trust AntiVirus/Spyware apps to work for them, and reinstalling Windows can bring enormous peace of mind. Don't blame me for mentioning it- paranoia can be a powerful thing! Suggestions for next edition: maybe in PM section & Internet disaster prevention, including basic definitions & tips on safe Internet use? Phishing, Pharming, Identity Theft & Email-scams may not *directly* damage computers, but they sure do affect their users(!). Also- How about advanced videogame troubleshooting? Even people with up-to-date hardware experience crashes & restarts during games. In the Windows 2000 Getting Started book, a common solution to blue-screen stop messages is to "Disable BIOS memory options such as caching or shadowing". Believe it or not, it worked for me! Far fewer crashes during fast moving video & videogames. These are my best suggestions! Thank you for this incredible & long-overdue book!

Average customer rating:

PC Magazine, Windows XP
Windows XP Speed Solutions
Not what I expected
Windows XP Speed Solutions
Fast and fun.

PC Magazine Windows XP Speed Solutions
Curt Simmons
Manufacturer: Wiley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Similar Items:

PC Magazine Windows XP Solutions
PC Magazine Guide to Home Networking
Hacking Windows XP (ExtremeTech)
PC Magazine Fighting Spyware, Viruses, and Malware
PC Magazine Wireless Solutions (PC Magazine)

ASIN: 0764578146

Book Description

Get that snail out of your system
"In these pages, you'll find all kinds of tips, tweaks, hacks, and configuration settings that should help you regain some speed control over Windows XP. I'll also show you how to get rid of the clutter and junk that Windows XP picks up over time..."
—Curt Simmons

When everything seems like slow motion, it's time to call in PC Magazine's favorite system doctor

You have to clean out most things after you use them for awhile. Why should your PC be any different? This indispensable book shows you exactly how to turn that snail into a cheetah by unloading the junk that Windows XP has collected, turbo-charging your system for faster response, cleaning up the Registry, and using all the safeguards provided in Service Pack 2. Just don't be surprised if your PC is faster than on the day you brought it home.

Give Windows XP a power boost

Make programs start faster with hidden prefetch settings
Eliminate spyware, adware, and unwanted cookies
Dump programs you don't need (but know which ones you DO)
Pre-schedule maintenance tasks
Boost system startup by disabling features
Tweak virtual memory
Learn to work with the Registry
Update your device drivers
Beef up your cable or DSL speed
Learn from special tips and tricks in every chapter

Customer Reviews:

PC Magazine, Windows XP.......2006-11-14

Contains some good information. Would work better as an online book. A lot of references to different programs and their locations; And they are correct.

Windows XP Speed Solutions.......2006-01-30

PC Magazine is always a great source for computer technical information, and this book is a good example. It is technical yet easy enough for lay people to read and understand. Each topic is independent of the others, so if you are looking for a specific solution, you can find it. I recommend it.

Not what I expected.......2006-01-30

Some fix's were not explained in enought detail. Some solutions were very complicated

Windows XP Speed Solutions.......2005-09-08

Simple, easy to understand steps to improve the performance of Windows XP.

Fast and fun........2005-08-24

Easy to use. Actually had me doing, and using my computer in many different ways. Having more fun now, just knowing how to tweak my unit.

How to Do Everything with Your iPAQ Pocket PC, Third Edition (How to Do Everything)

Average customer rating:

Not great for WM 5.0
How to Do Everything with Your IPAQ Oicjet OC
Lacking in Details
Only if you suffer from severe tech phobia
Can I read this on my Ipaq?

How to Do Everything with Your iPAQ Pocket PC, Third Edition (How to Do Everything)
Derek Ball
Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill Osborne Media
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Hardware | Computers & Internet | Subjects | Books

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Similar Items:

iPAQ for Dummies
Pocket PCs! I Didn't Know You Could do That (With CD-ROM)
Pocket PC (Visual QuickStart Guide)
Pocket PCs for Dummies
How to Do Everything with Windows Mobile (How to Do Everything)

ASIN: 0072260920

Book Description

Maximize all the powerful capabilities of your iPAQ Pocket PC with help from this easy-to-use guide. You'll learn to use the email, Internet, phone, and camera features, and enjoy all the entertainment options like movies and music. You'll also find out how to be more productive on-the-go using the mobile office software--work on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations, all in the palm of your hand. With coverage of all models, How to Do Everything with Your iPAQ Pocket PC, Third Edition is your one-stop guide for getting the most out of this versatile handheld device.

Download Description

Now you can do more with your iPAQ than you ever thought possible with this easy-to-use guide. Learn to maximize your iPAQ's built-in features and increase functionality with additional applications and accessories. You'll also get step-by-step guidance for using Word, Excel, and Outlook and managing your finances with the Pocket Money application. You'll find tips for keeping your iPAQ running at peak performance and discover ways to secure your iPAQ from theft, loss, and other intrusions. Use your iPAQ as a mobile GPS unit to guide you to your destination, wirelessly connect your iPAQ to a LAN with 802.11b, or use a wireless modem to connect to the Internet. Covering troubleshooting problems and describing fun things to do with the most popular pocket PC--this book will show you how to take full advantage of your iPAQ.

Customer Reviews:

Not great for WM 5.0.......2007-01-05

I bought this book before I got my iPAQ in the hopes that it would give me a head start on using it, but there isn't enough detail on any instructions to actually be able to use the manual. For example, it says includes Windows Mobile 5 model info, but when I wanted to find out how to adjust the Program vs Storage memory slider, it only refers to previous Windows versions. Also, there is a lot of information on how to use your iPAQ phone, which of course I do not have the phone version. Basically a useless book.

How to Do Everything with Your IPAQ Oicjet OC.......2006-03-12

Excellent! As a new user of an older model IPAQ with NO documentation, this book got me up and running very quickly.

Lacking in Details.......2004-10-15

This book does a good job of telling you what your IPAQ can do but a very poor job of telling you how to do it. I wanted more information about how to set up my IPAQ to connect with the internet. The book told me it could be done and how wonderful it was, but lacked specific information about which screen to go to and how to actually make it work.

I later purchased IPAQ for Dummies. This book told me what the IPAQ could do and specifically how to do it. It was great. The Dummies book also gave lots of information on programs that are very helpful to add to your IPAQ.

I was disappointed with IPAQ Pocket PC but very happy to get my hands on IPAQ for Dummies!

Only if you suffer from severe tech phobia.......2004-06-03

I bought this book based on highly favorable reviews here. I found this book to be a total waste of time and money. This book may be useful if you are a complete newbie, don't have access to an IT guy/gal and haven't a clue how to do a web search for info/tips.

Otherwise, don't bother. There is little info on the newer IPAQ's and none on the 2003 OS. This is hardly surprising given the 2002 copyright. Some 30% of the pages are dedicated to promotions of peripherals and games (pages 247 to 352 out of 352 pages, not including appendices). Most of the peripherals are now obsolete. More importantly, all this info can be found at any PDA site, for free.

This is a VERY basic text, yet it doesn't cover important items such as data backup and recovery. If it does, it certainly isn't listed in the index. Need to find out how to reset your IPAQ? Forget it. Not in the index and nowhere to be found in the text. However, you will find "Marble Madness" and "bags, carrying."

The text discusses various brands of storage cards, but fails to inform you on how to transfer data onto those cards. Two solid pages are dedicated to specs for an IBM hard drive - info which is available, for free, on the web. Nevermind the question of why someone who needs a hard drive for his PDA would be using this "IPAQ for the severely tech challenged" book?

Compare this to the three pages which the writer begrudgingly alots to troubleshooting and you get a sense of where the priorities are with this book. And by the way, those troubleshooting tips are either available on the web at the IPAQ webpage (guess what? for free) or for issues which have been resolved.

Do a Google search. It'll save you time, frustration and money.

Can I read this on my Ipaq?.......2004-04-09

I was going to dowload the adobe version of this book until I read the "features section" which said:

Handheld Compatible: Adobe Reader supports transfer of e-books to PalmOS devices, but not to Pocket PC or Symbian devices.

Why would a book about pocket pc's only be readable on Palms?

I guess I'll wait for the Pocket PC version, unless this is merely an error.

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