Explaining the fundamentals of personal computing to those who would rather read words than look at pictures, PCs for Dummies tells you everything you need to know in order to use an IBM-compatible PC running Windows 98. Dan Gookin's prose is technically astute and fun to read. This isn't the book for you if you're looking through a computer catalog and wondering what all the jargon means (Buying a Computer for Dummies covers that). Rather, this book will help you when you've gotten the machine into your home and you need to know what to do next. Starting with the process of unpacking the box and plugging in all the cables, this book shows you what to do with your new machine. After assembly is out of the way, Gookin shows you how to get around in Windows 98 (and Windows 95, which is almost identical). He explains concepts like files, directories, and applications, and frequently explains the exact procedures involved in common tasks like adjusting screen resolution. Once you've heard all about the basics, Gookin goes on to explain modem configuration, printer problems, productivity software, and a fair amount about Internet use. --David Wall


From Library Journal
Who would have thought a line of reference works "for dummies" would ever sell? Well, they have, and this series installment by author Gookin is an excellent example of how to make something otherwise complicated simple for lay readers. Newbie computer users will find much useful information here, from opening the box and setting up a new computer system to basic file management, hardware and software issues, and basic WindowsR steps. Gookin's fun and easy-to-follow advice is tailor-made for the many people buying PCs for the first time. This new version includes Windows 95R procedures, as well as helpful hints on understanding how computers operate, how to read and write files to hard and floppy disks, and how to set up a basic Windows system configuration. Because of the technical nature of this material, many readers may also want to read the book (available from IDG) while they follow these handy tips with their own computer. This item and the entire "DummiesTM" line is a sure bet for all public libraries.?Dale Farris, Groves, Tex.Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.

FROM OUR EDITORS

The Barnes & Noble Review
Got a new PC this fall? Getting one for the holidays? Or maybe your great aunt is finally joining the digital revolution? We've got the accessory that really ought to come standard: PCs for Dummies, Eighth Edition. Dan Gookin invented the For Dummies series, and over a decade later, there's still nobody you'd rather learn PCs from.

Of course, there's plenty of new technology to cover in this edition (which is one reason this might be just the right book even if you've been a casual PC user for years already). Gookin has added about 80 entirely new pages: new coverage of Windows XP, 2000, and Me; new stuff on USB and on your digital camcorder's FireWire interface; flat-panel monitors, CD burners, digital cameras, and lots of new Internet coverage -- including a full chapter on using Outlook Express as your email software.

Gookin nails the nitty-gritty stuff: how to switch your mouse for lefties, what computer game ratings mean, how to adjust your monitor, where you can't get viruses from. There's also a good deal of simple troubleshooting -- including the solution to the ever-popular "I accidentally moved my taskbar and now I can't put it back" problem (Tip: in Windows XP, you can lock your taskbar in place. About time!) (Bill Camarda)

Bill Camarda is a consultant, writer, and web/multimedia content developer with nearly 20 years' experience in helping technology companies deploy and market advanced software, computing, and networking products and services. His 15 books include Special Edition Using Word 2000 and Upgrading & Fixing Networks For Dummies®, Second Edition.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Throw out those dense, mind-numbing, jargon-filled computer manuals and grab yourself a copy of PC's For Dummies, 6th EDITION, your all-in-one guide that is packed with all the tried-and-true advice and special tricks that you can expect from all-time best-selling author Dan Gookin. In his familiar, fun, and easy-to-follow fashion, Gookin guides you through the wonderful world of PCs with a minimum of technobabble and a maximum of hardware smarts and software savvy.

Find out what lurks inside a PC and sort your way through chips, cards, cables, and connections The Dummies Way™. You don't have to be a geek to get the most bang for your computing buck PC's For Dummies, 6th Edition, is the ideal reference for first-time PC users. From putting your PC together to finding quick answers and sage advice on installing new hardware and software, surfing the Internet and sending e-mail, or troubleshooting your PC problems, you can feel confident-and get your work done-in no time at all.

SYNOPSIS

Keep up with innovations ranging from the latest on Pentium and OverDrive chips to video accelerator cards, in the new edition of this perennial bestseller.￯﾿ﾽ

FROM THE CRITICS

Library Journal