Description:
Scott Mueller has long been known for the quality of the PC-hardware reference books that he writes. Upgrading and Repairing PCs, which now is in its twelfth edition, remains relevant even as the personal computing market is changing faster than ever. This book represents the most comprehensive single source of information on what used to be called IBM-compatible PC hardware. Look here for data--useful to repair technicians--about processors (e.g., Intel's Itanium and AMD's Duron parts), memory (e.g., RDRAM and DDR SDRAM), video cards, disk drives, removable storage media of all kinds, and network interface cards. If it can be plugged into a PC, Mueller addresses it. A new emphasis on networking makes an appearance in this last edition. Whereas earlier versions of the book more or less stopped at the PC case, this one explores the technology that underlies cable modems, Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) connections, and other high-speed data communications options. It also explains how to make all of the custom-length Ethernet cables that you want--a simple but valuable addition. Builders of home and small-office networks probably will wish for more coverage of turnkey firewall hardware; but, because most of these devices aren't based on the PC platform, their absence is understandable. Mueller ties up the hardware-related discussion in a well-illustrated chapter on building a PC from scratch. It's solid work, although it would've been even better if he'd spelled out "best of breed" components by make and model. --David Wall Topics covered: The latest and greatest in IBM-compatible PC hardware, as well as legacy hardware that the PC specification still supports. Processors, memory, video chips, network cards, CD-ROM players and recorders, DVD players and recorders, modems, all sorts of specialized components, plus instructions on building a PC, and troubleshooting strategies.
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