Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1484155 in Books
• Published on: 2001-10-04
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 336 pages

Amazon.co.uk Review
So you want to buy a computer but you don't know what type of system to go for? Advice is needed--but where from?

Try this book for starters.

It's authoritative, comprehensive and provides in no-nonsense style the facts that many salespeople will never tell you.

It starts at the very beginnings, discussing just what a computer can do for you--and warning of the pitfalls you may face in buying one. These are ably summed up by Jenny, one of a number of people whose case histories are used in the book to highlight specific points. She says: "I realise now that it's easy to waste a fortune in this game. If I was doing it all again I'd make damn sure I did my homework."

Besides appealing to the novice the book--now appearing in updated form--is also a good read for the more experienced computer user. Its non-technical approach supplies in detail what you need to know about such things as the Web and online services, buying equipment by mail order and the Year 2000 problem.

For the more adventurous there is some welcome and sound advice on how to build or upgrade your computer as well as a useful guide to specifications which will help the reader understand computer advertising and compare products.

Overall, a down-to-earth and honest guide which should have wide appeal. --Stuart Russell

Synopsis
For many people computers have become an essential part of everyday life, both at home and in the office. Word-processing, managing your finances and budgeting, e-mail, using the Internet, making music and playing games are just a few of the things that are possible with a small computer system. But choosing the right model for your requirements is still harder than it should be. Some people spend two or three times more than they need on a system that still may not do the job. This valuable guide takes you step-by-step through the buying process and explains how to find the appropriate software and hardware at reasonable prices, how to run your system cost-effectively and how to find effective technical help when you need it.

Written in non-technical language, the new edition of this guide also includes: everything you need to know about buying a computer in the high street and by mail order; up-to-date information on the latest hardware and software, including Windows 2000, Windows XP and Linux; new entertainment options for your home computer, including MP3 and DVD; help with computer DIY and simple problem-solving; and an introduction to the Internet, and what you need to get the most from it.