The complete idiot's guide to Upgrading and repairing PCs

This lighthearted, approachable manual teaches you the ins and outs of your computer and what might be slowing it down or what could speed it up.

• Everything you need to know to get started
  
• Focused advice for setting up
  
• Valuable tips on avoiding common pitfalls
  
• Expert advice on increasing your PCs efficiency
  
• Easy-to-follow instructions for those new to upgrading and repairing their PCs

Table of contents

Part 1: Assessing Whether Upgrading Is Really Necessary

Making the Call: When, Why, and If You Should Upgrade

Now, Let's Find Out What Kind of Computer You Have

What It Takes to Upgrade Each Part of Your Computer

What You Need to Know Before You Open Your PC

Part 2: Preventative Maintenance and Other Ways to Avoid Upgrading

Fixing the Most Common Problems

Getting the Most Out of Your Operating System

"Repairing" the Hard Disk Without Replacing It

Part 3: Taking Everything Apart

The Easiest Things to Upgrade

Accelerating Your PC with a New CPU

Replacing the Motherboard and Its Parts

Memorize This: Upgrading Memory Is Easy

The Return of the Interface Card

Hands-On Hard Disk Replacement

Replacing a Floppy Disk Drive

Adding a CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, or Other Optical

Maxi-Infra-Mega Storage Solutions

Installing Other Gadgets and Accessories

Powering Up the Power Supply

Installing and Maintaining an At-Home Network

Seeing More Clearly: Upgrading Your Video Card

Sensational Stereophonic Sound

These Modem Times in Which We Live

Part 4: Putting Everything Back Together

Making Your Computer Boot Up Again

Getting Windows to Recognize Your New Toy

Index