Absolute Beginner's Guide to Computer Basics, Second Edition

Absolute Beginner¿s Guide to Computer Basics, 2E, teaches you how to get the most from your personal computer system ¿ and from common peripherals, including CD burners, digital cameras, and PDAs. This book shows new computers users how to set up their computer hardware, find their way around the Windows XP desktop, learn to use essential software programs, and get connected to and start using the Internet. Users will also learn how to keep their computer systems up and running, and how to troubleshoot common computer problems.Everything is explained in an easy-to-understand language, with step-by-step instructions and helpful illustrations. This book presents a non-technical approach to an otherwise technically intimidating topic, it's filled with practical information and real-world advice. Understanding your computer hardware Setting up your new computer system Understanding Microsoft Windows XP Taking Windows for a spin Personalizing Windows Working with files and folders Adding new hardware and devices to your system Setting up a home network Performing routine maintenance Dealing with common problems Installing new software Using suites and bundles Working with words Working with numbers Working with a database Working with presentations Managing your finances Creating cool projects and greeting cards Learning with educational software Playing games Connecting to the internet Surfing the web Finding stuff online Buying and selling online Sending and receiving email Using instant messaging and chat Using newsgroups, message boards, and blogs Downloading files Creating your own web page Protecting your PC from viruses, spam, and other nuisances Playing CDs and DVDs Ripping and burning CDs Downloading and playing digital music Using your PC with a portable music player Editing your own home movies Buring and copying DVDs Connecting a digital camera or scanner Working with digital pictures. Absolute Beginner's Guide to Computer Basics, 2E, teaches you how to get the most from your personal computer system - and from common peripherals, including CD burners, digital cameras, and PDAs. This book shows new computers users how to set up their computer hardware, find their way around the Windows XP desktop, learn to use essential software programs, and get connected to and start using the Internet. Users will also learn how to keep their computer systems up and running, and how to troubleshoot common computer problems. Everything is explained in an easy-to-understand language, with step-by-step instructions and helpful illustrations. This book presents a non-technical approach to an otherwise technically intimidating topic, it's filled with practical information and real-world advice Absolute Beginner's Guide to Computer Basics is written to be an all-in-one solution to help users get up and running on their computer and learn all the software applications that come pre-loaded on their systems. This book is a cost-effective alternative for the user who does not want to purchase several books, because it covers hardware, software, peripherals, the Internet, and troubleshooting all in one resource. It's completely updated for 2003, and includes coverage of Windows XP. The book assumes no prior knowledge, and is perfect for those who've just taken their first computer out of the box. At only $18.95, it's priced well below the competition to give the reader a great value. The first edition of this book was a strong seller because it covered not only basic concepts, but the tasks most users wanted to learn. There will always be a market for beginners, whether this is their first computer, they are switching from a Mac or other system, or are simply inexperienced and need help understanding, setting up, and using their PC. And this should be their first computer books! Giving students the information and guidance required to use any personal computer system, and common peripherals ranging from CD burners and digital cameras to PDAs, this second edition is for all introductory-level courses in computing. It shows how to set up the computer hardware; navigate and use the Windows XP desktop; and much more. Guides beginning users through basic PC operations in Microsoft Windows, demonstrating how to print letters, manage finances, shop online, send and receive e-mail, and customize the desktop