Computers in Plain English  [Paperback]

Ron C. Berry (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 12, 2004

The book is an overview of computers in simple terms. I start by explaining mainframes, but only enough to give the basis for where some of today's terms came from. In the beginning chapter I also lay out binary and hexadecimal numbers and the exponential system. This is done for the purpose of explaining how a computer can digest numbers, and by introducing hexadecimal, I am able to show how character data is able to be manipulated. I cover exponents so that the large numbers are more readily understood. The next chapter goes into operating systems-what they are, where they came from and how it applies to the home PC. This allows me to follow with a chapter on DOS and then Windows. Next is a chapter describing the Internet. In the chapter on programs that follows, I give an overview of the types of software available. Because buying a computer can be overwhelming, I delve, in the next chapter, in the hardware involved in a computer system. This then is followed by a hypothetical system, from its arrival in the home to how everything is installed. Once it is up and running, it must be maintained, and I have included my system cleanup instructions. There is a simple glossary and an appendix with information on fonts and point sizes. Included as a bonus is a complete ASCII table. These may never be needed, but this book is designed as a guide, and should anyone follow this up with an interest in the field, this is important information.

Product Details

• Paperback: 135 pages
• Publisher: PublishAmerica (January 12, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1413705197
• ISBN-13: 978-1413705195
• Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.5 x 0.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 6.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #10,043,262 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)