PC User’s Bible

The perfect go-to reference to keep with your PCIf you want to get the most out of your PC, you've come to theright source. This one-stop reference-tutorial is what you need tosucceed with your Windows Vista or Windows XP computer, whetherit's a desktop or a laptop. From setting up your PC to using it forgames and multimedia to keeping it running smoothly, thiscomprehensive guide explains it all with clear, step-by-stepinstructions, tips from power users, and much more. Keep thisvaluable book on hand and power up with confidence!* Understand your PC's components, inside and out* Set up sound cards, speakers, and other audio gadgets* Put a firewall in place and apply other security software* Explore Microsoft(r) Windows and learn about options for otheroperating systems* Play and create music, videos, podcasts, and more* Print, scan, fax, make presentations, and download photos* Protect your PC against theft, damage, and eavesdroppers* Explore common troubleshooting issues and their solutions

Acknowledgments.Introduction.Part I: Choosing Your Computer.Chapter 1: Desktop or Laptop?Chapter 2: Evaluating the Warranty and Support.Chapter 3: Buying a Computer.Part II: Understanding Your Computer'sComponents.Chapter 4: Looking Inside the Case.Chapter 5: How Your Computer Computes.Chapter 6: The Central Processing Unit.Chapter 7: Random Access Memory.Chapter 8: Understanding the BIOS.Chapter 9: Hard Drives and Other Storage Media.Chapter 10: Understanding Graphics Controllers.Chapter 11: Video Monitors.Chapter 12: Keyboards, Mice, and Other Input Devices.Chapter 13: Sound Cards, Speakers, and Other Audio.Chapter 14: Using USB and FireWire Interfaces.Chapter 15: Using Bluetooth.Part III: Using Your Desktop Computer.Chapter 16: Exploring Your Desktop Computer.Chapter 17: Managing Power on a Desktop Computer.Chapter 18: Overclocking Your Computer.Part IV: Using Your Laptop Computer.Chapter 19: Choosing a Laptop Computer.Chapter 20: Finding Your Way Around Your Laptop Computer.Chapter 21: Managing Power on a Laptop Computer.Chapter 22: Using External Devices with a Laptop.Chapter 23: Connecting Your Laptop to the Internet.Chapter 24: PC Cards and ExpressCards.Chapter 25: Laptop Accessories.Chapter 26: Traveling with Your Laptop.Part V: Improving Your Computer's Performance.Chapter 27: Setting Up Your Computer.Chapter 28: Enhancing the View.Chapter 29: Ergonomics: Making the Most of Bad Design.Chapter 30: Accessibility.Part VI: Putting Your Computer to Work.Chapter 31: Working with Microsoft Windows.Chapter 32: Essential Software.Chapter 33: Alternatives to Windows.Chapter 34: Sharing a Computer.Chapter 35: Printing from Your Computer.Chapter 36: Making Presentations.Chapter 37: Scanning to Your Computer.Chapter 38: Using Your Computer with a Digital Camera.Chapter 39: Scheduling Software Events.Chapter 40: Synchronizing Your Data Files.Chapter 41: Using Windows Remote Desktop.Chapter 42: Playing, Creating, and Editing Sound.Chapter 43: Viewing, Creating, and Editing Video.Part VII: Using Your Computer for Communications.Chapter 44: Connecting Your Computer to a Network or AnotherComputer.Chapter 45: Sending and Receiving Faxes.Chapter 46: Using Your Computer on the Internet.Chapter 47: Using Virtual Private Networks.Part VIII: Security and Maintenance.Chapter 48: Keeping Your Computer and Data Secure.Chapter 49: Preventing Trouble Through Maintenance.Chapter 50: Restoring Windows.Chapter 51: Troubleshooting: Finding the Problem After ItHappens.Index.