Barbara Fritchman Thompson – författare

If you''re one of the many who has decided to build your own personal computer system, you know that doing so can be quite a challenge. The information can be overwhelming--and so can the number of choices.It''s true, whether you''re perusing online sites, or wandering the aisles of your favorite retail store, shopping for PC components is no easy task. Until now. Thanks to PC Hardware Buyer''s Guide, the experience of building your own PC system has never been easier.This handy pocket guide is the ideal shopping companion for do-it-yourself types. Loaded with valuable information, it starts off by providing a piece-by-piece overview of all the components that comprise a standard desktop computer. Then it sinks its teeth into the crux of the issue: how to choose the right parts for you, based on your particular profile (gamer, mainstream user, etc.). It does so by helping you identify which parts are:

Compatible to each otherRegarded as the best performingClosest in line with your budgetFor quick-lookup purposes, the PC Hardware Buyer''s Guide even includes a simple reference chart with recommended brands and models. Just refer to the chart and the guesswork is gone. And don''t worry about the shelf-life of the information, either. The PC Hardware Buyer''s Guide features several rules of thumb for choosing components that endure past the latest models, so you don''t need to buy a new guide with each passing year.In a market where very little written information exists, this is the only pocket guide that covers PC hardware.

PC Hardware in a Nutshell is the practical guide to buying, building, upgrading, and repairing Intel-based PCs. A longtime favorite among PC users, the third edition of the book now contains useful information for people running either Windows or Linux operating systems. Written for novices and seasoned professionals alike, the book is packed with useful and unbiased information, including how-to advice for specific components, ample reference material, and a comprehensive case study on building a PC.In addition to coverage of the fundamentals and general tips about working on PCs, the book includes chapters focusing on motherboards, processors, memory, floppies, hard drives, optical drives, tape devices, video devices, input devices, audio components, communications, power supplies, and maintenance. Special emphasis is given to upgrading and troubleshooting existing equipment so you can get the most from your existing investments.This new edition is expanded to include:

Detailed information about the latest motherboards and chipsets from AMD, Intel, SiS, and VIAExtensive coverage of the Pentium 4 and the latest AMD processors, including the Athlon XP/MPFull details about new hard drive standards, including the latest SCSI standards, ATA/133, Serial ATA, and the new 48-bit "Big Drive" ATA interfaceExtended coverage of DVD drives, including DVD-RAM, DVD-R/RW, and DVD+R/RWDetails about Flat Panel Displays, including how to choose one (and why you might not want to)New chapters on serial communications, parallel communications, and USB communications (including USB 2.0)Enhanced troubleshooting coveragePC Hardware in a Nutshell, 3rd Edition provides independent, useful and practical information in a no-nonsense manner with specific recommendations on components. Based on real-world testing over time, it will help you make intelligent, informed decisions about buying, building, upgrading, and repairing PCs in a cost effective manner that will help you maximize new or existing computer hardware systems. It''s loaded with real-world advice presented in a concise style that clearly delivers just the information you want, without your having to hunt for it.

PC Hardware in a Nutshell is the practical guide to buying, building, upgrading, and repairing Intel-based PCs. A longtime favorite among PC users, the third edition of the book now contains useful information for people running either Windows or Linux operating systems. Written for novices and seasoned professionals alike, the book is packed with useful and unbiased information, including how-to advice for specific components, ample reference material, and a comprehensive case study on building a PC.In addition to coverage of the fundamentals and general tips about working on PCs, the book includes chapters focusing on motherboards, processors, memory, floppies, hard drives, optical drives, tape devices, video devices, input devices, audio components, communications, power supplies, and maintenance. Special emphasis is given to upgrading and troubleshooting existing equipment so you can get the most from your existing investments.This new edition is expanded to include:

Detailed information about the latest motherboards and chipsets from AMD, Intel, SiS, and VIAExtensive coverage of the Pentium 4 and the latest AMD processors, including the Athlon XP/MPFull details about new hard drive standards, including the latest SCSI standards, ATA/133, Serial ATA, and the new 48-bit "Big Drive" ATA interfaceExtended coverage of DVD drives, including DVD-RAM, DVD-R/RW, and DVD+R/RWDetails about Flat Panel Displays, including how to choose one (and why you might not want to)New chapters on serial communications, parallel communications, and USB communications (including USB 2.0)Enhanced troubleshooting coveragePC Hardware in a Nutshell, 3rd Edition provides independent, useful and practical information in a no-nonsense manner with specific recommendations on components. Based on real-world testing over time, it will help you make intelligent, informed decisions about buying, building, upgrading, and repairing PCs in a cost effective manner that will help you maximize new or existing computer hardware systems. It''s loaded with real-world advice presented in a concise style that clearly delivers just the information you want, without your having to hunt for it.

Why use the traditional approach to study the stars when you can turn computers, handheld devices, and telescopes into out-of-this-world stargazing tools? Whether you''re a first timer or an advanced hobbyist, you''ll find Astronomy Hacks both useful and fun. From upgrading your optical finder to photographing stars, this book is the perfect cosmic companion.This handy field guide covers the basics of observing, and what you need to know about tweaking, tuning, adjusting, and tricking out a ''scope. Expect priceless tips and tools for using a Dobsonian Telescope, the large-aperture telescope you can inexpensively build in your garage. Get advice on protocols involved with using electronics including in dark places without ruining the party.Astronomy Hacks begins the space exploration by getting you set up with the right equipment for observing and admiring the stars in an urban setting. Along for the trip are first rate tips for making most of observations. The hacks show you how to:

Dark-Adapt Your Notebook ComputerChoose the Best BinocularClean Your Eyepieces and Lenses SafelyUpgrade Your Optical FinderPhotograph the Stars with Basic EquipmentThe O''Reilly Hacks series has reclaimed the term "hacking" to mean innovating, unearthing, and creating shortcuts, gizmos, and gears. With these hacks, you don''t dream it-you do it--and Astronomy Hacks brings space dreams to life. The book is essential for anyone who wants to get the most out of an evening under the stars and have memorable celestial adventures.

Want to build a PC that perfectly meets your needs? This up-to-date guide has precisely what you need to know. You A'll learn about PC fundamentals, how to plan your project using the latest components, where and how to buy the parts you need, and how to assemble everything with step-by-step instructions and clear, easy-to-follow images. You also get an insightful discussion on why you A'd want to build your own PC in the first place. Unlike big-brand computers that use lower-quality components so they can meet aggressive pricing targets, the PCs you A'll learn to build in this popular book call for high-quality parts that you can purchase directly or obtain through distributors and resellers.The latest edition includes these PC options: * Budget System -- build an inexpensive system that focuses on quality and reliability * Mainstream System -- roll your own fast, flexible, quiet general-purpose system * Extreme System -- build a wicked fast system optimized for video editing/production, Photoshop, gaming, or pure number-crunching * Media Center System -- centralize your music, DVDs, and home video with your HDTV as the display, and share your content with any PC in your home * Appliance System -- put together a tiny, quiet, inexpensive PC that you can tuck away anywhere * Home Server -- build your own secure repository to centralize data storage and sharing for every system in your home