Build your own Computer

this book about building your perfect computer is easy to read and follow.  Build your own Computer, written by Hugh Pittman, is a book that, unlike many others in the market, goes really deep into the subject matter.  The process of personal computer building is explained in detail, showing the author's obvious experience in the field.   From the very beginning, the author provides an informative introduction explaining his reason for writing this book: to provide a practical guide to building a modern personal computer hardware system that runs on Windows or Linux-based operating systems.

pittman makes it clear that his book is intended for people that have limited knowledge of computers. therefore he makes sure that complex technical concepts are carefully explained - starting with basic terms such as 'personal computer', 'operating system', 'hackintosh computers' and the like.   also, the author chose to make his book more than just a good reference guide, by introducing a bit of humor.  therefore, the reader will be able to meet a cartoon character named ding duck who either offers some friendly advice or is annoyed when the author points out some common mistakes.  the user should listen to the advice provided by this charming character, and make sure to avoid mistakes that usually happen when it comes to computer assembly.  Build your own Computer puts a special emphasis on the use of tables full of reference data, in figures that can be found throughout the entire book, and in demonstrating practical examples of the situations in which users can, and most likely will find themselves following the author's instructions.  

though i'm not part of the audience this book is written for, given my 30+ years of working with computers, i'm pleasantly surprised by the amount and quality of information that can be found within, as well as the author's knowledge.  during a careful reading, i could not find a single thing that is incorrect. though, of course, i have somewhat different opinions about some of the author's views.  but when it comes to software and hardware, that is normal.  therefore, i would say, Build your own Computer is a book that is intended for, and will be mostly enjoyed by,  readers who know nothing or very little about personal computers. That is because the well-written instructions and good quality pictures make it easy to read and follow.   On the other hand, even experienced users will find this book interesting because of the exhaustive and comprehensive manner in which the author synthesizes knowledge on the selection of high-quality components.

Hugh has taught Information Technology for many years. He has a B.Ed, a Grad. Dip. in Information Systems, and a Diploma in Workplace Health and Safety. He is also a certified A+ Microprocessor Technician, and has written a series of published online information technology training packages.

Contents

1. Introduction

2: Planning the Build

3: Selecting Components   3.1: Selecting the Central Microprocessor Unit   3.2: Selecting the Motherboard   3.3: Selecting the RAM Modules   3.4: Selecting the Expansion Cards   3.5: Selecting the Case   3.6: Selecting the Secondary Storage Devices   3.7: Selecting the Power Supply Unit   3.8: Selecting the Monitor

4: Buying Components and Organizing Your Work

5: Building the Computer   5.1: Preparing the Case   5.2: Installing the CPU   5.3: Installing the RAM Modules   5.4: Installing the Motherboard   5.5: Installing the Expansion Cards   5.6: Installing the Power Supply Unit   5.7: Installing Secondary Storage Devices   5.8: Connecting External Peripheral Devices

6: Powering-up

7: Troubleshooting

8: Checking Components

9: Giving Something Back

Glindex 

Appendix 1: Software Selection List   2: Software System Requirements   3: Selection of Components, Peripheral Devices   4: Installation of Legacy SCSI System   5: Introduction to Case Modeling   6: Removing Write-protection with Regedit   7: Installing Windows 10 ISO from USB Device   8: Troubleshooting Checklist   9: Audio-Technica Forum Guidelines

Professional Review