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Annotation CPU, Ghz, Mhz, DIMMS, RAM, ROM, AGP, ISA, PCI, USB, CRT, LCD, NIC, CCD, CIS, DP, Kbps. What do all of these acronyms mean?<p>Are you baffled by computer technology and technology? Intimidated by computer salespeople who grimace or grin when you say “gizmo?” <i>Buying a Computer For Dummies 2005 Edition</i> gives you the ABCs of buying a computer. You don’t have to be able to talk tech; you just have to know what you want and how to get it. This guide turns evaluating the mind–boggling options into a simple five–step process, complete with software and hardware worksheets to help you pick a computer just for you. You’ll discover how to:</p><ul><li>Choose the right software for your needs</li><li>Pick the right peripherals, including monitor, printer, scanner, modem, keyboard, and more</li><li>Spend “extra” money strategically to get more computer power for your buck</li><li>Choose disk drives, including info on CD–ROM, DVD, Floppy, Zip, and flash memory cards</li><li>Be sure you get support</li></ul><p>Written by Dan Gookin, the author of DOS for Dummies, the bestseller that spawned the entire line of For Dummies books, plus many other For Dummies big sellers, <i>Buying a Computer For Dummies</i> is updated to incorporate the latest technologies. It covers processor upgrades, flat panel displays, new peripherals, laptops, tablet PCs, wireless systems, and more. You’ll find information on:</p><ul><li>Choosing a digital camera and getting images from it into your computer</li><li>Getting a network card (NIC) for a broadband modem if you want the fastest Internet connection</li><li>Making the right decisions: CRT or LCD monitor? Laser printer or ink jet? Wired network or wireless?</li><li>Software for word processing, databases, desktop publishing, home budgeting, spreadsheets, graphics. and more</li><li>Essential utilities, including antivirus, anti–spyware, and firewall software</li></ul><p>It also arms you with important questions to ask a dealer and warning signs to look for in ads or sales pitches. Whether you are buying your very first computer, considering upgrading your current system, or replacing a system that’s outdated by today’s standards, this guide gets you past the jargon and into the wise buying mode. ASAP. PDQ.</p><p>Oh, and it also tells you what all of the acronyms at the top stand for!</p> |
