A Look at the Latest Computer Books and Guides

Strategic Insights -

Computer hardware and software enthusiasts have been spoiled with a wealth of helpful guides and books over the years. Two notable examples from recent publications are "This Old PC" by 'This Old PC' (ZD Press, $59.95) and "Concepts in Graphic Design" by David A. Holzgang and Lesley Strother (MIS Press, $39.95). These books cater to diverse interests and needs of users, offering detailed instructions and illustrations to enhance users' understanding and skills.

Key Takeaways:

  • "This Old PC" provides step-by-step instructions for upgrading a 286 PC to a 486, including replacing the motherboard and microprocessing chip, adding memory modules, and installing a larger hard disk, supported by numerous diagrams.
  • The book also covers upgrading peripherals such as printers, video cards, modems, fax cards, CD-ROM, sound cards, and networking hardware, making it a comprehensive resource for users looking to breathe new life into their PC.
  • "Concepts in Graphic Design" focuses on helping readers understand the interaction between traditional design processes and new electronic enhancements, addressing the problem of taking a design concept through to printed pages in a more efficient manner.
  • The book teaches using a range of electronic tools to create graphics, and how to establish standards and libraries of templates and artwork, making it a valuable resource for graphic designers and those looking to improve their understanding of the industry.
  • An example of other books in the "how to" series from ZD Press includes "How to Connect", "How the Internet Works", and "How Software Works", which provide a visually engaging and informative overview on various computer-related topics.
  • The "how to" series books are priced between $34.95 and $44.95.
  • "This Is The Mac. It's Supposed To Be Fun" ($29.95) is particularly recommended for Macintosh users, offering comprehensive coverage of hardware, printing, software, fonts, and troubleshooting, including hard disk recovery.
  • The Macintosh bible includes an excellent troubleshooting section and is essential reading for any user managing multiple Macintosh systems, with an extensive index and table of contents that is both comprehensive and humorous in its approach.

Statistics:

  • The "how to" series books from ZD Press are priced between $34.95 and $44.95.
  • The "This Old PC" guide is priced at $59.95.

Sources:

  • "This Old PC" (ZD Press, $59.95)
  • "Concepts in Graphic Design" by David A. Holzgang and Lesley Strother (MIS Press, $39.95)
  • "This Is The Mac. It's Supposed To Be Fun" ($29.95)
  • ZD Press "how to" series