Computers

[Kazal]

Hi
Does anyone know a good book on computers. I have recently retired and have a new pc. I am ok with word,excel,internet etc. But when it comes to generally looking after the computer I haven't a clue as all this was done by the IT dept. Things like "install new plug ins"clear out unused files,whether I need all the security etc that I'm being offered. A Computer workshop in Idiot guide terms is what I need.

[ACtheTROLL]

start small .... join a library ... get computers for dummies ...(or whatever it's called) It's very basic so you'll soon outgrow IT (not worth buying)

then it depends where your interests are

hardware or software
for XP
this is a web version of the XP inside out book

the IO books (98, 2000, XP, Vista, office etc etc) are all good solid basic handbooks ...
http://www.microsoft.com/resources/documentati on/windows/xp/all/proddocs/en-us/acl_special_p ermissions.mspx?mfr=true

a sfor plugins etc ... they tend to be product specific ... the mfrs own website is the best place to start there

[Ethel]

There are many many such books on the market - I suggest you borrow a few from your local library and browse the shelves at PC World to find one that suits you.

There are the Idiots guides (The Complete Idiot's Guide to pcs, for example); The Dummies guides (Windows XP for Dummies) both of which are simplistic, use large type and lots of diagrams. They may be too patronising for your tastes.

I like Computer Active, a fortnightly inexpensive magazine that has many excellent features in plain English.

Whichever book you decide to buy, make sure it is the latest edition and relevant to your pc and operating system.

[Cetti]

I heartily agree with Ethel, Computer Active is worth its weight in gold!
We have now amassed a small library of these very user friendly magazines and they are always being used for something or the other.

They go into detail with 'How to' features without being patronising, plus extremely helpful step by step pictures on the innards of your computer and what goes where. All for �1.49p.

[zinnie]

Hello.....can I suggest that you go to a website called 'silverhairs'
this will give you all the help,tips and everything you will need...in fact much more than just using your PC

[Whickerman]

Haynes (the car manual people) have a manual for computers out - very good as it happens.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Computer-Manual-Step-s tep-Maintaining/dp/1844251284

Check PC world for this - it's on special at my nearest one for a fiver!

[Kazal]

Many thanks for all your tips. I'm on my way out of the door now.