Reviewed By: Missy Grote
Date: November 14, 2004
Section: Book Reviews
Publisher: QUE
Authors: Michael Miller
Pages: 416
Retail Price: $18.95
Dot Journal Price: $13.26

The Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Upgrading and Fixing Your PC is not only a must for new computer users but also for any non-technical computer user. You’re thinking, “Is there such a thing...A non-technical computer user?” To answer your question, YES! Many people know just enough about their computers to get by until something is no longer functioning. Non-technical computer users live with the status quo thinking that this is as good as it gets. So what if it takes 10 minutes for the machine to reboot, or data backup sounds like a good idea in theory. I hope you believe me, we can all fall into the lazy trap of thinking of computer system couldn’t get any better.

The good news is Michael Miller, author of Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Upgrading and Fixing Your PC makes no assumptions. He gives you a brief rundown of the hardware and how it functions. He’ll then go through a list of various components that you could upgrade along with the reason you’d seek along with price expected to pay. Upgrade a keyboard? You bet! There are now more ergonomic as well as wireless keyboards to choose from. Miller then delves into the nuts and bolts about how to upgrade your computer components. From increasing your system’s memory to upgrading the sound card and speakers, Miller takes you step by step into the numerous hardware upgrades.

In addition to hardware tweaking, Miller also discusses upgrading certain applications that make your computer experience run smoothly. No matter what your fancy, Miller discusses an assortment of applications and how use them successfully. From internet radio, to scanning photos or editing movies you will be feel empowered with the non-technical instructions.

If you have a screwdriver and a little patience, the Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Upgrading and Fixing Your PC will help you upgrade your PC into a smooth sailing ship. Even though the book is intended for non-technical computer users, Miller makes no assumption that you’ll be able to fix everything. He’ll walk you through how to troubleshoot some common problems but will also advise you when it is best to seek a professional. I consider myself a 10+ year on-the-edge technical computer, and even I found my confidence rise as I learned even more!

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