The Complete PC Upgrade and Maintenance Guide, 15th Edition

by Mark Minasi

• ISBN13: 9780782143102
• ISBN10: 0782143105
• Edition: 15th
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2004-03-01
• Publisher: Sybex

Summary

The World's Leading PC Guide--Updated, Expanded, Reorganized The Complete PC Upgrade and Maintenance Guide continues its reign as the PC world's great problem-solving wonder. In simple, easy-to-follow language, it shows you how to prevent disasters, fix the ones that occur, and maximize your PC's power and longevity. Based on author Mark Minasi's popular seminars, this book is an unbeatable value. It teaches you everything you need to know to meet all your PC challenges, present and future. Coverage includes: * Preventing hardware disasters * Upgrading memory * Replacing power supplies * Installing EIDE and Serial ATA hard drives * Adding SCSI ports * Partitioning drives using NTFS and FAT32 * Protecting your PC from viruses, worms, and spyware * Solving data backup challenges * Adding and repairing DVDs and CD-ROMs * Installing and troubleshooting scanners * Troubleshooting printers * Installing communications devices * Resolving mouse and keyboard problems * Installing video and sound cards * Tackling networking issues * Installing a wireless network * Troubleshooting Internet connectivity * Solving laptop problems

Author Biography

Mark Minasi is a noted educator and author in the fields of PC computing, data communications, and operating systems.

Table of Contents

Introduction	xxix
Part 1 Core Components	1	(270)
Chapter 1 Five Easy Pieces: PC Hardware in a Nutshell	3	(16)
Introduction	4	(1)
CPUs, Peripherals, and Controllers	5	(2)
Buses and Interfaces	7	(2)
Actually, There's a Sixth Piece	9	(1)
Typical PC Components and Issues	10	(9)
Chapter 2 inside the PC: Core Components	19	(82)
Introduction	20	(2)
QuickSteps: Installing a CPU	22	(1)
The System Board/Motherboard	23	(3)
Central Processing Unit (CPU)	26	(33)
CPU Speeds (Megahertz/Gigahertz)	27	(6)
Microcode Efficiency and Pipelines	33	(3)
Word Size	36	(1)
Data Path	36	(1)
Internal Cache Memory	36	(3)
Memory Addressable by a CPU	39	(1)
Slots and Sockets	40	(1)
Details on CPU Chips	41	(18)
PC Memory	59	(1)
Expansion Buses	60	(17)
What Is a Bus?	60	(1)
The First "PC" Bus	61	(1)
The AT (ISA) Bus	62	(4)
ISA's Not Enough: Local Bus	66	(1)
The PS/2 Bus: Micro Channel Architecture (MCA)	67	(1)
Extended Industry Standard Architecture (EISA)	68	(1)
Local Bus	69	(1)
PCI: Today's Bus	69	(3)
Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP): Local Bus Returns	72	(1)
PC Card (PCMCIA): The Portable Bus	73	(3)
Mini PCI (Portable PCI)	76	(1)
CardBus	76	(1)
System Controllers	77	(11)
What's a Controller?	77	(2)
Controllers Aren't Always Separate Boards	79	(1)
Video Adapter	79	(2)
Floppy Disk Controller and Disk Drives	81	(1)
IDE Controller	82	(1)
SCSI Host Adapter	83	(1)
Keyboard and Mouse	83	(1)
Parallel (Centronics) Interface/IEEE 1284	84	(1)
Serial Port	84	(1)
Universal Serial Bus (USB)	85	(2)
FireWire/IEEE 1394	87	(1)
System Clock/Calendar and Configuration (CMOS) Chip	88	(2)
The Clock/Calendar and CMOS Battery Issues	89	(1)
Other Common Controllers	89	(1)
Locating and Identifying Components	90	(11)
Finding Things on the Motherboard	90	(2)
Identifying Connectors	92	(9)
Chapter 3 Taking Apart and Rebuilding the PC	101	(42)
Introduction	102	(1)
QuickSteps: Disassembling the PC	103	(3)
Choose Your Weapons: PC Repair Tools	106	(5)
Screwdrivers	106	(1)
Antistatic Wrist Straps	107	(1)
Retrieving Tools	108	(2)
Hemostats	110	(1)
Pliers and Diagonal Cutters	110	(1)
Chip Extractors (PLCC and PGA)	110	(1)
Lights and Mirrors	111	(1)
Tools to Avoid	111	(1)
General PC Disassembly Advice	112	(17)
Be Sure That Disassembly Is Necessary	112	(1)
Make Sure You Have Adequate Workspace	112	(1)
Keep the Small Parts Organized	113	(1)
Back Up the Configuration	113	(2)
Turn the PC and Associated Peripherals Off	115	(1)
Take the Monitor off the PC and Set It Aside	115	(1)
Unplug the Computer and Remove the Cover	115	(3)
Diagram!	118	(4)
Remove the Boards Correctly	122	(2)
Remove the Drives	124	(2)
Remove the Power Supply	126	(2)
Remove the CPU and RAM	128	(1)
Remove the Motherboard	128	(1)
Reassembly Hints	129	(4)
Connecting Cables and Edge Connectors: The Pin 1 Rule	130	(2)
Avoiding Common Reassembly Mistakes	132	(1)
Upgrading Your Computer	133	(7)
Deciding What to Upgrade	133	(1)
Making Decisions on Parts	134	(6)
Troubleshooting Tips	140	(3)
Chapter 4 Avoiding Service: Preventive Maintenance	143	(26)
Introduction	144	(1)
QuickSteps: Checking the Environment	145	(1)
QuickSteps: Preventive Maintenance	146	(2)
Heat and Thermal Shock	148	(5)
Removing Heat with a Fan	148	(1)
Removing Heat with a Heat Sink	149	(1)
Understanding Good and Bad Box Designs	150	(1)
Using Heat Sensor Devices	150	(1)
Keeping Temperature Ranges Safe for PCs	151	(2)
Dealing with Dust	153	(1)
Magnetism	154	(2)
Stray Electromagnetism	156	(9)
Electromagnetic Interference	156	(2)
Power Noise	158	(4)
Electrostatic Discharge	162	(3)
Avoiding Water and Other Liquids	165	(1)
Corrosion	165	(1)
Troubleshooting Tips	166	(3)
Chapter 5 Installing New Circuit Boards	169	(44)
Introduction	170	(1)
QuickSteps: Installing a New Circuit Board	171	(1)
But I Have Plug and Play, So I Don't Have to Worry About This, Right?	172	(1)
Configuring New Circuit Boards	173	(2)
Software Switch Setup Advice	173	(1)
Avoiding Configuration Conflicts	174	(1)
Understanding I/O Addresses, DMA, IRQs, RAM, and ROM Addresses	175	(21)
I/O Addresses	175	(7)
DMA (Direct Memory Access) Channels	182	(4)
IRQ (Interrupt Request) Levels	186	(8)
ROM Addresses and RAM Buffers	194	(2)
Resolving Device Conflicts	196	(7)
Answers to the Scenarios	196	(3)
More Conflict Resolving Advice	199	(2)
One More Conflict Resolution Example	201	(1)
Finding Diagnostic Programs	202	(1)
How Plug and Play Works	203	(4)
Booting on PnP Systems	204	(1)
Configuring ATs and Beyond: Software Setup	205	(2)
Troubleshooting Tips	207	(6)
Finding the Bad Board	208	(1)
Night of the Living Data: Making a Dead Machine "Undead"	209	(2)
What Makes Boards Fail?	211	(1)
Other Problems and Solutions	212	(1)
Chapter 6 System Memory	213	(36)
Introduction	214	(1)
QuickSteps: Installing RAM	215	(2)
Introducing Memory Sizes, Speeds, and Shapes	217	(1)
Memory Modules	218	(7)
Motherboard Chipsets	219	(1)
Dynamic RAM	220	(5)
Matching System Memory to Cache Memory	225	(1)
Better Programs	225	(1)
Better Processors	225	(1)
Managing Memory	226	(16)
Managing Memory in the DOS World	226	(15)
Managing Memory in the Post-DOS World	241	(1)
Causes of False Memory Errors	242	(1)
Power Drops and Surges	242	(1)
Mismatched Chip Speeds and Manufacturers	243	(1)
Memory Tests	243	(2)
Walking Bit Test	244	(1)
Mountain/Valley and Checkerboard Tests	244	(1)
Tips on Installing Memory Chips	245	(1)
Troubleshooting Tips	246	(3)
Chapter 7 Power Supplies and Power Protection	249	(22)
Introduction	250	(1)
QuickSteps: Replacing a Power Supply	251	(1)
Components of the Power Supply	252	(1)
Power Supply Form Factors	252	(6)
Form Factor Connectors	253	(5)
Maintaining and Upgrading the Power Supply	258	(1)
Determining Whether You Need a New Power Supply	259	(1)
The Power Supply Troubleshooting Trail	259	(1)
Replacing a Power Supply	260	(1)
Protecting the PC from the AC	260	(8)
Do You Have Power Problems?	260	(1)
Check Outlet Wiring	261	(1)
Check What Else Is on the Line	261	(1)
Ensure Common Ground among Devices	262	(1)
Protect against Power Noise	262	(1)
Solutions to Power Problems	263	(1)
Devices to Remedy Electrical Problems	264	(4)
So, What Should I Buy?	268	(2)
The Granddaddy of Power Problems: Lightning	268	(1)
Unexpected Power Outages	269	(1)
Troubleshooting Tips	270	(1)
Part 2 Devices	271	(158)
Chapter 8 Hard Disk Drive Overview and Terminology	273	(20)
Introduction	274	(1)
Disk Basics	275	(1)
Hard Disk Interfaces	276	(2)
Disk Geometry	278	(4)
Heads	278	(1)
Tracks	279	(1)
Cylinders	279	(1)
Sectors	280	(1)
Zone Bit Recording	281	(1)
Logical Geometry	281	(1)
Disk Capacity Barriers	282	(5)
Sector Translation	282	(2)
INT13 Addressing	284	(1)
ATA Interface Addressing	285	(1)
Operating System Limitations on Disk Capacity	285	(1)
Summary of Capacity Barriers	286	(1)
Disk Performance Characteristics	287	(4)
Seeks and Latency	287	(2)
Data Transfer Rate	289	(1)
Error Correction Code (ECC)	290	(1)
ATA Standard Supported	290	(1)
Buffer/Cache Size	291	(1)
DMA and PIO	291	(2)
PIO Modes	291	(1)
DMA Modes and UDMA	292	(1)
Chapter 9 CD-ROM and DVD Drives	293	(24)
Introduction	294	(1)
QuickSteps: Installing CD and DVD Drives	295	(1)
How a CD Drive Works	296	(1)
CD and DVD Drive Types	296	(5)
Regular Compact Disc Read Only Memory (CD-ROM)	297	(1)
CD-Recordable (CD-R)	298	(1)
CD-Rewriteable (CD-RW)	298	(1)
Digital Versatile Disc (DVD)	299	(1)
Recordable/Rewriteable DVDs	299	(2)
CD Drive Standards	301	(3)
Red Book	302	(1)
Yellow Book	302	(2)
CD and DVD Drive Interfaces	304	(1)
EIDE	304	(1)
SATA	304	(1)
SCSI	305	(1)
USB	305	(1)
IEEE 1394 (FireWire)	305	(1)
Choosing the Right Drive	306	(3)
Disc Loading	306	(1)
Internal or External	306	(1)
Performance Characteristics	306	(3)
Installing a CD or DVD Drive	309	(3)
Preparing a Drive Bay	309	(1)
Setting Jumpers	309	(1)
Installing the Drive in the Bay	310	(1)
Connecting the Cables	310	(1)
BIOS Configuration	310	(1)
Drivers	311	(1)
Installation Troubleshooting Checklist	311	(1)
Recording CDs and DVDs	312	(2)
Avoiding Buffer Underruns	312	(1)
Recording CD and Data DVDs	313	(1)
Producing and Recording DVDs	313	(1)
Selecting Writeable Media	314	(1)
Handling CDs and DVDs	314	(3)
Chapter 10 Understanding and Installing ATA Drives	317	(16)
Introduction	318	(1)
QuickSteps: Installing an ATA Hard Drive	319	(2)
ATA Technology	321	(4)
It All Began with IDE	321	(1)
ATA Standards	321	(3)
Summary of ATA Standards	324	(1)
Configuration Considerations	325	(3)
Master/Slave jumpers	325	(1)
Primary and Secondary EIDE and Add-On Boards	326	(2)
What Goes Where?	328	(1)
Installing the Drive	328	(3)
The Pin 1 Rule	329	(1)
Installation Steps	329	(1)
Configure the System's BIOS Setup	329	(2)
Troubleshooting Drive Installation	331	(2)
Chapter 11 Understanding and Installing SCSI Devices	333	(29)
Introduction	334	(1)
QuickSteps: Installing a SCSI Drive	335	(2)
SCSI Overview	337	(2)
SCSI-1, SCSI-2, and SCSI-3	337	(1)
Host Adapters	338	(1)
Single-Ended versus Differential SCSI	338	(1)
SCSI IDs	339	(8)
Terminators	339	(2)
Cables and Connectors	341	(1)
SCSI Technology Standards	342	(1)
SCSI-1: The Beginning of a Good Idea	342	(1)
SCSI-2: The Beginning of True Standardization	343	(1)
SCSI-3: Multiple High-Speed Specs	344	(3)
SCSI Specifications Roundup	347	(1)
SCSI Host Adapters	347	(2)
Bus Mastering	348	(1)
Cache RAM	348	(1)
Multichannel Host Adapters	348	(1)
SCSI Standards Support	348	(1)
Choosing SCSI Hardware	349	(4)
Choosing the Right Host Adapter	349	(1)
Choosing the Right SCSI Peripherals	350	(1)
Choosing the Right SCSI Cabling	350	(2)
Choosing the Right Termination	352	(1)
SCSI Installation	353	(3)
Installing the SCSI Host Adapter	354	(1)
Assigning a SCSI ID to the Peripheral	355	(1)
Enabling/Disabling SCSI Parity	355	(1)
SCSI Daisy Chaining	355	(1)
Sample SCSI Setups	356	(3)
One Internal Drive	356	(1)
Two Internal Devices	356	(1)
One External Device	357	(1)
Internal and External Devices	358	(1)
SCSI Software Installation	359	(1)
SCSI Drivers	359	(1)
Bootable SCSI: Onboard BIOS Support	359	(1)
Troubleshooting SCSI	360	(2)
Chapter 12 Partitioning, Formatting, and Managing Drives 361
Introduction	362	(1)
QuickSteps: Partitioning and Formatting a Hard Disk	363	(2)
MS-DOS and Windows 95/98/Me	363	(1)
Windows NT/2000/XP	364	(1)
Partitioning and Formatting Overview	365	(9)
Low-Level Formatting	365	(1)
Partitioning	366	(2)
High-Level Formatting and File Systems	368	(5)
Clusters	373	(1)
How to Partition and Format a Drive	374	(13)
Partitioning with FDISK	375	(6)
Formatting with FORMAT	381	(1)
Formatting from My Computer	382	(1)
Partitioning While Running Windows Setup	383	(1)
Partitioning and Formatting with Disk Management	384	(2)
Partitioning and Formatting Troubleshooting Tips	386	(1)
Enabling Ultra DMA Support in Windows	387	(1)
Enabling Ultra DMA in Windows 98/Me	387	(1)
Enabling Ultra DMA/66 in Windows 2000	388	(1)
Enabling Ultra DMA/100 in Windows 2000	388	(1)
Other Ultra DMA Issues and Windows	389	(1)
Working with NTFS File System Features	389	(2)
Compression	389	(1)
Encryption	390	(1)
Using Different Colors for Compressed and Encrypted Files	390	(1)
Performing Disk Tasks with Disk Management	391	(3)
Changing Drive Letters	391	(1)
Converting to Dynamic Disks	392	(2)
Managing Disks from the Recovery Console	394	(3)
Chapter 13 Protecting and Maintaining Hard Disks	397	(18)
Introduction	398	(1)
Protecting Your Hard Disk	399	(1)
Protecting Your Data	399	(6)
Backing Up the MBR	400	(1)
Backing Up System Files	401	(1)
Backing Up User Data	401	(4)
Preparing Boot Disks	405	(1)
Preparing for Emergency Boot in Windows 9x	405	(1)
Preparing for Emergency Boot in NT-Based Windows Versions	406	(1)
Emergency Repair Disks	406	(1)
Automated System Recovery (ASR)	406	(1)
Recovery Console	406	(2)
Checking Disks for Errors	408	(1)
Defragmenting the File System	409	(1)
Dealing with Dead Disks	410	(5)
Step 1: Does BIOS Setup See It?	411	(1)
Step 2: Can You Read from the Drive?	411	(1)
Step 3: Try a Disk Utility	412	(1)
Step 4: Send It to the Pros	413	(2)
Chapter 14 Understanding, Installing, and Troubleshooting Floppy Drives	415	(14)
Introduction	416	(1)
QuickSteps: Replacing a Floppy Drive	417	(1)
Is Floppy Technology Obsolete?	418	(1)
Alternatives to the Floppy Drive	418	(1)
The Floppy Subsystem	419	(4)
The Floppy Disk	419	(1)
The Floppy Drive	420	(2)
The Disk Controller	422	(1)
The Cable	422	(1)
Simple Preventive Maintenance for Floppies	423	(1)
To Clean Heads or Not to Clean Heads?	423	(1)
Defending Disks	423	(1)
Removing, Configuring, and Installing Floppy Drives	424	(1)
Removing Floppy Drives	424	(1)
Installing Floppy Drives	425	(1)
Troubleshooting Tips	425	(6)
A Disk Can't Be Read	425	(1)
The Drive Refuses to Function	426	(1)
The Drive Shows Phantom Directories	427	(1)
Floppy Troubleshooting Recap	427	(2)
Part 3 Supporting and Managing External Drives	429	(92)
Chapter 15 Printer Types and Interfaces	431	(18)
Introduction	432	(1)
QuickSteps: Connecting and Testing a Printer	433	(1)
Types of Printers	434	(2)
Printer Interfaces	436	(4)
Parallel Ports	436	(2)
USB Ports	438	(1)
Serial Ports	438	(1)
Infrared Ports	438	(1)
Network Printing	439	(1)
Printer Maintenance	440	(3)
Dot-Matrix Printers	440	(1)
Inkjet Printers	441	(1)
Laser Printers	442	(1)
Common Problems and Solutions	443	(6)
Isolate the Problem	443	(1)
Check Cable Lengths	444	(1)
Choose the Correct Windows Driver	444	(1)
Check Ports and Connections	444	(2)
Consider the Weather	446	(1)
Troubleshooting Tips	446	(3)
Chapter 16 Troubleshooting Inkjet Printers	449	(16)
Introduction	450	(1)
Parts of an Inkjet Printer	451	(2)
The Case	451	(1)
The Paper-Feed Mechanism	452	(1)
Ink Cartridges	452	(1)
The Ink Cartridge Carrier	453	(1)
The Exit Tray	453	(1)
How an Inkjet Printer Works	453	(1)
Common Problems and Possible Solutions	454	(6)
Printer Appears to Work but Nothing Prints	454	(2)
Color Is Wrong	456	(1)
Printer Doesn't Print at All	456	(1)
Printing Is Slow or Intermittent	457	(1)
Quality Is Poor	458	(1)
Output Is Garbled or Formatted Incorrectly	459	(1)
Paper Is Stuck or Not Moving	460	(1)
Common Error Messages	460	(1)
Ink Low	460	(1)
Out of Memory	461	(1)
Out of Paper	461	(1)
Paper Jam	461	(1)
Print Head Failure	461	(1)
Preventive Maintenance	461	(1)
Clean the Print Heads	462	(1)
Align the Print Heads	462	(1)
Refilling Ink Cartridges	462	(1)
Troubleshooting Tips	463	(2)
Chapter 17 Troubleshooting Laser Printers	465	(24)
Introduction	466	(1)
Parts of a Laser Printer	467	(1)
Interface Controller	467	(1)
Input Interface	467	(1)
CPU	467	(1)
Printer RAM	467	(1)
Printing Mechanisms	468	(1)
How a Laser Printer Prints	468	(6)
Step 1: Cleaning	469	(1)
Step 2: Conditioning	470	(1)
Step 3: Writing	470	(1)
Step 4: Developing	471	(2)
Step 5: Transferring	473	(1)
Step 6: Fusing	473	(1)
Paper Exit	474	(1)
Color Laser Printers	474	(1)
Common Symptoms and Solutions	475	(3)
Vertical White Streaks on the Page	475	(1)
Smearing on the Page	476	(1)
Horizontal Streaks on the Page	476	(1)
Cloudy, Faded Output	476	(1)
Distorted Images	476	(1)
Black Line Down the Side of the Page	477	(1)
Memory Overflow Error	477	(1)
Printer Picks Up Multiple Sheets	477	(1)
Paper Jams	477	(1)
Squeaking or Groaning Sounds	478	(1)
Basic Testing	478	(5)
Printer Power	478	(1)
Resetting the Printer	478	(1)
Error Messages	479	(1)
Cables and Ports	479	(1)
Environmental Considerations	480	(2)
Paper and Media Issues	482	(1)
Advanced Testing and Repair	483	(2)
Laser Printer Disassembly	483	(1)
Voltage Tests	483	(1)
I/O Port Testing	484	(1)
Using Diagnostic Software	484	(1)
Maintenance Issues	485	(1)
Errant Toner	485	(1)
Cleaning	485	(1)
Troubleshooting Recap	486	(3)
Chapter 18 Understanding and Troubleshooting Scanners	489	(18)
Introduction	490	(1)
QuickSteps: Connecting a Flatbed Scanner	491	(1)
Types of Scanners and How They Work	492	(1)
Scanner Types	492	(1)
How a Scanner Scans	493	(2)
Scanner/Computer Interface	495	(1)
Image Quality Measurement	496	(1)
Working with a Scanner in Windows	496	(2)
TWAIN	497	(1)
Windows Image Acquisition (WIA)	497	(1)
Optimizing Scan Size and Image Quality	498	(2)
Select an Appropriate Resolution	498	(1)
Select an Appropriate File Type	499	(1)
Crop Images	499	(1)
Choose an Appropriate Image Mode	499	(1)
Optical Character Recognition	500	(1)
Scanner Maintenance	500	(1)
Common Problems and Solutions	500	(4)
Check the Connections	501	(1)
Give It a Test	501	(1)
Check the Port-and the Configuration	502	(1)
Allocate Necessary Resources	503	(1)
Troubleshoot Parallel Port Sharing Problems	503	(1)
Fix Problems with Scan Quality	504	(1)
Troubleshooting Tips	504	(3)
Chapter 19 Keyboards and Mice	507	(14)
Introduction	508	(1)
QuickSteps: Installing a Keyboard, Mouse, or Trackball	509	(1)
Keyboard Types and Components	510	(3)
Keyboard Types	510	(1)
Keyboard Interfaces	511	(1)
Wireless Keyboards	512	(1)
Keyboard Maintenance	513	(1)
What to Do When a Keyboard Fails You	514	(2)
Make Sure It's Plugged In	514	(1)
Make Sure BIOS and Windows See It	514	(1)
Fix Bent Pins	514	(1)
Connect It to Another Computer	514	(1)
Check the Keys	515	(1)
Test Pin Voltages	515	(1)
Check the Cable Continuity	515	(1)
Replace the Keyboard	516	(1)
Mouse Types and Components	516	(2)
Buttons and Wheels	516	(1)
Mouse Positioning Methods	517	(1)
Alternatives to Mice	517	(1)
Mouse Interfaces	518	(1)
Mouse and Trackball Cleaning	518	(1)
What to Do When Your Mouse Fails You	518	(1)
Keyboard and Mouse Adjustments in Windows	519	(1)
Troubleshooting Tips	519	(2)
Part 4 Multimedia	521	(56)
Chapter 20 Video Adapters and Displays	523	(18)
Introduction	524	(1)
QuickSteps: Installing a New Video Card	525	(2)
QuickSteps: Shopping for a Video Card	527	(1)
How a Video Board Works	528	(4)
The CPU and Video Images	528	(1)
The System Bus	529	(1)
The Video Memory	530	(1)
The Video Imaging Chip	531	(1)
Video Board Characteristics	532	(3)
Resolution and Colors	532	(2)
Vertical Scan Frequencies: Interlacing and 72Hz	534	(1)
3D Video Boards	535	(1)
Video Monitor Characteristics	536	(2)
Monitor Mumbo Jumbo: Horizontal Scan Frequency	536	(1)
Dot Pitch	537	(1)
Monitor Size	537	(1)
Flat-Panel Displays	537	(1)
Multifrequency Monitors	538	(1)
Multiple Displays	538	(2)
Issues Installing Multiple Display Cards	539	(1)
Troubleshooting Tips	540	(1)
Chapter 21 Play It Loud: Sound Cards	541	(18)
Introduction	542	(1)
Sound Characteristics	543	(7)
Sine Waves	543	(2)
Amplitude	545	(1)
Frequency	545	(1)
Signals to Bits: Sampling	546	(4)
Sound Card Characteristics	550	(1)
Number of Bits	550	(1)
Maximum Sampling Rate	550	(1)
FM and Wavetable Synthesis	550	(2)
Hardware versus Software Wavetable Recordings	551	(1)
Number of Voices	552	(1)
Audio Performance Measurements	552	(1)
Inputs and Outputs	552	(2)
Speaker Systems	554	(1)
Installation Tips	555	(1)
Selecting Among Multiple Sound Devices	555	(1)
Troubleshooting Sound	556	(2)
Installation Problems	556	(1)
Performance Problems	557	(1)
Summary	558	(1)
Chapter 22 Digital Imaging	559	(18)
Introduction	560	(1)
QuickSteps: Connecting a Digital Camera	561	(1)
Flash RAM Basics	562	(12)
How Flash RAM Stores Data	562	(1)
Why Not Replace All Disks with Flash RAM?	563	(1)
Types of Flash RAM Devices	563	(8)
Troubleshooting Flash RAM Devices	571	(1)
Recognizing the Device	572	(1)
Formatting Cards	572	(1)
Dealing with Multiple Flash Memory Devices	573	(1)
Digital Cameras	574	(5)
Camera Features and Specifications	574	(1)
Communicating with a Digital Camera in Windows	575	(1)
Image Management in Windows	575	(1)
Troubleshooting Camera Connectivity Problems	576	(1)
Part 5 Hardware Management and Troubleshooting	577	(78)
Chapter 23 Hardware Management via Software Solutions	579	(18)
Introduction	580	(1)
QuickSteps: Adding Hardware to Window,	581	(1)
Installing Device Drivers	582	(5)
Understanding Plug and Play	582	(1)
Installing New Hardware in Windows	583	(4)
Updating a Device Driver	587	(2)
Rolling Back a Driver Update	589	(1)
Understanding System Resources	589	(1)
Working with Device Manager	590	(7)
Troubleshooting Device Problems with Device Manager	591	(1)
Manually Changing a Device's Resource Assignments	592	(2)
Removing a Device Driver	594	(1)
Redetecting PnP Hardware	595	(1)
Disabling a Device	595	(2)
Chapter 24 Using the Internet for Hardware Support	597	(30)
Introduction	598	(1)
QuickSteps: Getting Online Help	599	(1)
Problems with Traditional Support	600	(2)
Journey into Faxback Hell	600	(1)
Facing the Muzak: Technical Support Lines	601	(1)
Making Friends and Influencing People	602	(1)
Read All about It	602	(1)
Advantages of Online Support	602	(5)
What's Out There?	602	(2)
Why Online Support Is Better	604	(3)
Using the World Wide Web for Support	607	(6)
Clicking and Linking	607	(1)
Finding Useful Web Sites	608	(2)
The Best Web Sites for Technical Information	610	(3)
Using FTP Sites for Support	613	(2)
Downloading via FTP	614	(1)
Finding Useful FTP Servers	614	(1)
The Best FTP Servers for Downloading Files	614	(1)
Using Usenet Newsgroups for Support	615	(5)
Understanding Usenet	615	(2)
Finding Useful Usenet Newsgroups	617	(2)
The Best Newsgroups for Technical Information	619	(1)
Using E-Mail Mailing Lists for Support	620	(2)
How Mailing Lists Work	620	(1)
Finding Useful Mailing Lists	621	(1)
The Best Mailing Lists for Technical Information	621	(1)
Using Internet Relay Chat for Support	622	(1)
Chatting with IRC	622	(1)
Finding Useful IRC Channels	622	(1)
The Best IRC Channels for Technical Information	623	(1)
Cautions about Online Support	623	(2)
Don't Believe Everything You Hear	623	(1)
When in Doubt, Check for Viruses	623	(2)
Don't Give Out Personal Information	625	(1)
Troubleshooting Tips	625	(2)
Chapter 25 Troubleshooting PC Problems	627	(28)
Introduction	628	(1)
QuickSteps: Troubleshooting PC Problems	629	(1)
General Troubleshooting Rules	630	(4)
Remember: Don't Panic, and You Will Win	630	(1)
Wait...and Repeat	630	(1)
Write Everything Down	631	(1)
Do the Easy Stuff First	631	(1)
Reboot and Try Again	631	(1)
Simplify, Simplify, Simplify!	632	(1)
Draw a Picture, Separate into Components, and Test	632	(1)
Never Assume	633	(1)
Trust No One: The Documentation Sometimes Lies	633	(1)
Observe Like Sherlock Holmes	634	(1)
Six Steps to Troubleshooting Success	634	(14)
Check for Operator Error	635	(2)
Make Sure Everything Is Plugged In-Correctly	637	(2)
Check the Software	639	(3)
Check External Signs	642	(1)
Run a Diagnostic Utility	642	(4)
Look Under the Hood	646	(1)
When All Else Fails	647	(1)
Common Problems-and Solutions	648	(5)
Your Computer Won't Start	648	(1)
Your Computer Locks Up	649	(1)
A New Piece of Hardware Won't Work-or Messes Up Your System	650	(1)
Your Hard Disk Crashes	651	(1)
Your Monitor Doesn't Display Properly	652	(1)
Your DSL, Cable, or Old-Fashioned POTS Modem Won't Connect	652	(1)
Your Printer Won't Print	653	(1)
Troubleshooting Tips for an Emergency	653	(2)
Part 6 Networking, Mobile Computing, and the Internet	655	(130)
Chapter 26 Networking Concepts and Hardware	657	(38)
Introduction	658	(1)
QuickSteps: Installing a New Network Card	659	(2)
Basic Networking Concepts	661	(3)
Networks Defined	661	(1)
Advantages of Networking	662	(2)
Understanding Networking Components	664	(20)
Networking Hardware	664	(11)
Networking Software	675	(9)
Connecting and Extending the Network	684	(11)
Hubs: Connecting the Dots	684	(5)
Switches: The More Intelligent Cousin	689	(1)
Repeaters: Extending the Network's Reach	690	(1)
Bridges: Spanning the Gap	691	(1)
Routers: Connecting Multiple Networks	691	(2)
Gateways: Language Translators	693	(2)
Chapter 27 Installing and Troubleshooting Networks	695	(20)
Introduction	696	(1)
QuickSteps: Planning a Network	697	(1)
Choosing a Network	698	(5)
Office Networking Options	698	(2)
Home Networking Options	700	(3)
Setting Up Your Network	703	(6)
Installing Cables	703	(3)
Preparing a Wireless Network	706	(1)
Installing and Configuring Network Cards	707	(2)
Networking Security	709	(4)
General Security Tips	710	(1)
Passwords	710	(1)
Firewalls	711	(2)
Network Troubleshooting	713	(2)
Check the Easy Stuff First	713	(1)
The Network Card	713	(1)
TCP/IP Specifics	713	(2)
Chapter 28 Modems and Other Internet Connection Devices	715	(26)
Introduction	716	(1)
Selecting a Modem	717	(2)
Maximum Transmission Rate	717	(1)
Internal versus External	717	(1)
Hardware Modem versus Winmodem	717	(1)
Technology Standards	718	(1)
Installing and Testing a Modem	719	(3)
Installing an Internal Modem	719	(1)
Installing an External Modem	720	(1)
Testing the Modem	720	(2)
Connecting the Phone Line	722	(1)
Troubleshooting a Modem	722	(2)
Doesn't Appear At All in the Device Manager	722	(1)
Appears as Unknown Device in Device Manager	722	(1)
Fails Diagnostic Testing	722	(1)
Lots of Static	723	(1)
Fails to Stay Connected	723	(1)
Slow Modem Connection Speed	723	(1)
Broadband Internet Connectivity	724	(17)
Choosing a Digital Technology	724	(2)
Making the ISDN Connection	726	(1)
Going Faster with DSL	727	(6)
Digital Cable Internet	733	(3)
Using a Satellite for Broadband Connections	736	(2)
Wireless Connections via Microwave	738	(1)
Sharing the Internet Connection	739	(2)
Chapter 29 Viruses and Other Nasty Bugs	741	(16)
Introduction	742	(1)
Types of Viruses	743	(6)
File Infectors and Boot-Sector Viruses	744	(1)
Macro Viruses: Melissa Isn't the Girl Next Door	744	(1)
Worms Wiggle Their Way through Email	745	(2)
Real-Time Messaging Viruses	747	(1)
Web Applet Viruses	747	(1)
Spyware	748	(1)
Techniques of Attack	749	(2)
Polymorphic Viruses	749	(1)
Multipartite Viruses	749	(1)
Stealth Viruses	750	(1)
Trojan Horses	750	(1)
Time Bombs and Logic Bombs	750	(1)
An Example of a Virus at Work	751	(1)
Virus Hoaxes	751	(1)
Tips for Protecting Your PC Against Viruses	752	(1)
Antivirus Software	753	(1)
Resources: Stay Informed	754	(1)
Virus Hoax Lists	754	(1)
Viral Symptoms	754	(1)
Troubleshooting Tips	755	(2)
Chapter 30 Notebook/Laptop Computers	757	(28)
Introduction	758	(2)
QuickSteps: Upgrading and Maintaining Your Laptop	760	(3)
Upgrading Your Memory	760	(1)
Upgrading Your Hard Disk	761	(1)
Replacing Batteries	762	(1)
Memory Upgrades	763	(4)
Preparing for the Upgrade	763	(1)
Making a Map	764	(1)
Performing the Installation	765	(2)
Hard Disk Upgrades	767	(7)
Finding the Right Hard Disk	768	(1)
Backing Up Your Data	768	(1)
Preparing for the Hard Drive Upgrade	769	(1)
Installing the New Hard Drive	769	(3)
Installing a Second Hard Drive	772	(1)
Installing PC Card Drive Cards	773	(1)
Memory Sticks	774	(1)
Other Kinds of Upgrades	774	(2)
DVD Drives	775	(1)
Laptop LAN Adapters	775	(1)
Wireless LAN Cards	776	(1)
Working with Laptop Batteries	776	(4)
Battery Care	777	(1)
Charging a Battery	777	(1)
Replacing a Battery	778	(1)
Buying a New Battery	778	(1)
Conserving Battery Power	779	(1)
Laptop Maintenance Issues	780	(1)
PC-to-Laptop Syncing	781	(1)
Syncing Data with PDAs	782	(1)
Troubleshooting Tips	782	(3)
Glossary	785	(70)
Index	855