This book includes easy instructions and handy references for buying or upgrading a personal computer.

This book appeals to new computer users who are somewhat intimidated by computer technology and computer users looking for a light-hearted approach to purchasing a new personal computer or upgrading their existing system.

Most computer documentation is based on the assumption that the computer's owner already knows something beyond the basics about computer operation. The Complete Idiot's Guide® to Computer Basics, Fifth Edition,assumes differently. This book places the reader in charge of the computer, rather than the other way around, and correctly identifies that the reader wants to do something practical with his or her computer but has little knowledge for doing so. In The Complete Idiot's Guide® to Computer Basics, Fifth Edition, readers will find- Clear explanations of the basics of office programs. Ways to tap the power of the Internet. Information on finding lost or misplaced files. Coverage of newsgroups, message boards, and mailing lists. The basics of working with music, photos, and video on your computer. Ways to help protect the environment with green computing, as well as maintenance and upgrading.

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Upgrading and Repairing PCs, Fourth Edition, teaches you how to upgrade your PC peripherals to increase productivity on your PC, without intimidating or offending you. A straight-forward, conversational tone provides basic information in purchasing and installing the newest technology for multimedia and more. You will learn how various software applications and operating systems upgrades can help you use or not use your PC more efficiently. This book gives you the foundation on what a PC is and how to upgrade it in everyday language.

This book includes easy instructions and handy references for buying or upgrading a personal computer.

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Buying a Computer covers ALL the necessary considerations to make BEFORE you purchase that computer. What are your computing needs? Mobility? Ease? Portability? Power? Multimedia features? This book leads you through the initial assessment of your computer needs. It then takes you through an industry overview of computers (desktop vs. laptop vs. hand-held) with the inside scoop on the pros and cons of these machines. You will learn about clones and how to decide whether or not to make the clone purchase. You'll also receive information about where to go to make that computer purchase (and where not to go), and what kinds of questions to ask. A tear-out checklist is included to take with you when making your computer investment.

Discover how to do just about anything with your Windows 7 PC The Complete Idiot's Guide® to PC Basics, Windows 7 Edition shows you how to do practical and fun stuff with your PC, including . . . Basics • Navigate and personalize Windows 7 • Manage disks, files, and folders • Install and uninstall programs • Use office applications, including a word processor and spreadsheet • Manage your personal finances • Get up and running with email Fun Stuff • Manage your digital photos and share them online • Transform a collection of photos into a movie and burn it to a DVD • Download music and transfer it to your MP3 player or CDs • Get connected with friends, family, and old school chums on Facebook • Tweet on Twitter • Discover cool features on Google you never knew existed • Watch and share video on YouTube • Find deals on eBay and other shopping sites • Create your own website or blog for free • Make free or really cheap phone calls all over the world with Skype For power users • Set up a home or small-business network • Protect your computer from viruses and other online threats • Upgrade and troubleshoot your PC From the Author You don't need to be a mechanic to drive a car, and you don't need to be a technician to use a computer. This book puts you in the driver's seat and shows you how to get where you're going with your computer, its software, and the Internet. Whether you want to manage your finances or your photos, connect with family and friends on Facebook, or buy and sell stuff on eBay, this book provides the step-by-step guidance that shows you how to do it.