Buying a computer

About This Book

Buying a computer is a five-step process, which this book fully explains. Along the way, you’ll read about computer hardware and software and fill in some worksheets that help you configure a computer just for you.

The five steps to buying a computer are outlined in Chapter 1. Based on that information, the book is divided into several parts, each of which occurs at a different stage in the buying process:

Part I overviews the entire process.

Part II discusses computer hardware and software: what it is and why you need it.

Part III details the buying process: where to buy, how to read a computer ad, and how to find service and support before the sale.

Part IV deals with setting up your new computer.

Part V is the traditional For Dummies “Part of Tens” — various lists for review or to help you get on your way.

Contents at a Glance

Introduction
Part I: Understanding the Whole Ordeal
Chapter 0: Some Questions to Get Out of the Way .
Chapter 1: Buying a Computer (Step-by-Step)
Chapter 2: Basic Computer Identification
Chapter 3: Computers from A to Z
Chapter 4: Introduction to Hardware and Software
Part II: Hardware and Software Overview
Chapter 6: Memory Stuff (Temporary Storage)
Chapter 7: Disks of Every Type (Permanent Storage)
Chapter 8: Monitor and Graphics Stuff
Chapter 9: Keyboard, Mouse, and Gamepad
Chapter 10: Expansion Options
Chapter 11: Modems and Sound
Chapter 12: Networking Your Computer
Chapter 13: Scanners and Digital Cameras
Chapter 14: Special Issues for Notebook and Laptop Computers
Chapter 15: Your Computer’s Operating System
Chapter 16: Everything You Wanted to Know about Software (But Were Afraid to Ask)
Part III: Finding Your Perfect Computer
Chapter 17: Shopping for Software
Chapter 18: Matching Hardware to Your Software
Chapter 19: Surveying the Shopping Landscape
Chapter 20: Tips for Online Shopping
Chapter 21: Searching for Service and Support
Chapter 22: Buying the Computer
Part IV: Living with Your Computer
Chapter 23: Helpful Hints for Computer Setup
Chapter 24: Time to Get a Printer
Chapter 25: From the Old Computer to the New One
Chapter 26: Selecting an ISP
Chapter 27: When to Buy, When to Sell, When to Upgrade
Part V: The Part of Tens
Chapter 28: Ten Common Mistakes Made by First-Time Computer Buyers
Chapter 29: Ten Warning Signs
Chapter 30: Ten Other Things You Should Buy
Chapter 31: Ten Tips and Suggestions
Index
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