Buying a computer for dummies : [five steps to making sure your PC is right for you ; choose the right computer, tailor-made to meet your specific needs

Realizing that purchasing a computer is a significant investment, beloved author Dan Gookin assists readers in finding a tailor-made computer that suits specific needs while also offering longevity Delivers all the know-how in an understandable, enjoyable, friendly style so readers don't feel overwhelmed by all the choices they'll face when buying a computer Walks readers step by step through all the new developments: CD burner/DVD combo drives, processor upgrades, flat panel displays, new modem and networking options, new peripherals, and more An essential reference for first-time computer buyers looking to make a wise purchase, and for anyone looking to get an additional computer CPU, Ghz, Mhz, DIMMS, RAM, ROM, AGP, ISA, PCI, USB, CRT, LCD, NIC, CCD, CIS, DP, Kbps. What do all of these acronyms mean? Are you baffled by computer technology and technology? Intimidated by computer salespeople who grimace or grin when you say "gizmo?" Buying a Computer For Dummies 2005 Edition gives you the ABCs of buying a computer. You don't have to be able to talk tech; you just have to know what you want and how to get it. This guide turns evaluating the mind-boggling options into a simple five-step process, complete with software and hardware worksheets to help you pick a computer just for you. You'll discover how to: Choose the right software for your needs Pick the right peripherals, including monitor, printer, scanner, modem, keyboard, and more Spend "extra" money strategically to get more computer power for your buck Choose disk drives, including info on CD-ROM, DVD, Floppy, Zip, and flash memory cards Be sure you get support Written by Dan Gookin, the author of DOS for Dummies, the bestseller that spawned the entire line of For Dummies books, plus many other For Dummies big sellers, Buying a Computer For Dummies is updated to incorporate the latest technologies. It covers processor upgrades, flat panel displays, new peripherals, laptops, tablet PCs, wireless systems, and more. You'll find information on: Choosing a digital camera and getting images from it into your computer Getting a network card (NIC) for a broadband modem if you want the fastest Internet connection Making the right decisions: CRT or LCD monitor? Laser printer or ink jet? Wired network or wireless? Software for word processing, databases, desktop publishing, home budgeting, spreadsheets, graphics. and more Essential utilities, including antivirus, anti-spyware, and firewall software It also arms you with important questions to ask a dealer and warning signs to look for in ads or sales pitches. Whether you are buying your very first computer, considering upgrading your current system, or replacing a system that's outdated by today's standards, this guide gets you past the jargon and into the wise buying mode. ASAP. PDQ. Oh, and it also tells you what all of the acronyms at the top stand for! Note: CD-ROM/DVD and other supplementary materials are not included. * Realizing that purchasing a computer is a significant investment, beloved author Dan Gookin assists readers in finding a tailor-made computer that suits specific needs while also offering longevity * Delivers all the know-how in an understandable, enjoyable, friendly style so readers don't feel overwhelmed by all the choices they'll face when buying a computer * Walks readers step by step through all the new developments: CD burner/DVD combo drives, processor upgrades, flat panel displays, new modem and networking options, new peripherals, and more * An essential reference for first-time computer buyers looking to make a wise purchase, and for anyone looking to get an additional computer Bestselling author Dan Gookin has updated his classic guide to cover CD burner/DVD combo drives, processor upgrades, flat panel displays, new modem and networking options, new peripherals, laptops, and moreWorldwide shipments of new computers now top 100 million units annually, and forecasters have predicted double-digit increases in PC shipments for 2003-2004Using the author's unique five-step approach to smart computer shopping, readers analyze their needs and match them to the perfect PC at the best priceGookin, who wrote the first-ever For Dummies book, DOS For Dummies, is renowned for his A guide to shopping for computers at retailers, discount stores, and on the Web discusses hardware and software basics, computer needs, comparison shopping, service and support, and the right questions to ask before purchasing. Welcome to Buying a Computer For Dummies - a book which assumes that you know nothing about a computer but are strangely compelled to buy one.