Building a PC For Dummies

Chambers, Mark L.

ISBN 10: 0764507826 / ISBN 13: 9780764507823

Published by For Dummies, 2000

Item in very good condition! Textbooks may not include supplemental items i.e. CDs, access codes etc. Seller Inventory # 00085760198

Synopsis:

This book gives you step-by-step instructions to build your own PC, including what kind of computer you need, parts you will need, how to choose components, how to install them, which operating system you should use and much more. The 3rd Edition of this successful For Dummies title is updated to include the latest technologies making it the most up-to-date reference for new and old do-it-yourselfers.

Review: By buying components and assembling them yourself, you can save a little money and gain a lifetime of free technical support. Building a PC for Dummies removes the intimidation factor from building your own Intel-based personal computer, explains what you need, and shows you how to put everything together. It's a fine place to start if you've never assembled your own machine before and want to give the process a try.

Author Mark L. Chambers describes what to look for when shopping for components, but he refrains from recommending any specific models or manufacturers. Building a PC for Dummies would be stronger if he had made such recommendations, the way Tom's Hardware Guide does. Even without a specific shopping list, this book makes it possible for a novice computer builder to make informed decisions about motherboards, processors, storage devices, expansion cards, and input devices.

Chambers presents the assembly process logically, explaining how to install a component or two at a time while performing incremental testing. He includes troubleshooting information in each component's section, but it's odd that he puts his discussion of operating systems in an appendix--most system builders will want to see their creations run as soon as possible. --David Wall

Topics covered: Buying and building a PC; selecting motherboards, processors, storage devices, expansion cards, and input devices.

Bibliographic Details

Title: Building a PC For Dummies
Publisher: For Dummies
Publication Date: 2000
Binding: Soft cover
Condition: Very Good
Edition: 3rd Edition