Building a PC For Dummies (For Dummies (Computer/Tech))

Chambers, Mark L.

ISBN 10: 0764542478 / ISBN 13: 9780764542473

Published by For Dummies, 2003

Item in good condition. Textbooks may not include supplemental items i.e. CDs, access codes etc. Seller Inventory # 00035292704

Synopsis:

Designed for first-time builders and seasoned veterans this book will help users design and build the system they really want - from determining which parts are needed for troubleshooting when things don?t work right. Covers the main features of building a PC including: building the foundation, adding RAM, adding a video card and a monitor, installing a hard drive and other storage devices, hooking up CD and DVD drives, connecting the sound card, installing a modem, adding a scanner, printer and speakers, and much more.

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 (For Dummies (...
Publisher: For Dummies
Publication Date: 2003
Binding: Soft cover
Condition: Good
Edition: 4th Edition