The magazine of the Melbourne PC User Group Windows XP Time Saving Techniques - for the bookshelf Major Keary |
The release of Service Pack 2 (SP2) has sparked a flush of second edition WinXP books. Windows XP Timesaving Techniques for Dummies assumes the reader knows how to use WinXP, knows the difference between XP Home Edition and Pro, and appreciates that XP has undergone some version changes (especially with SP2). Readers are not expected to have any special expertise.
The object of the book is to show ordinary users how to use 'pro' techniques that will save time and effort. There are seventy-two 'techniques' that are grouped in categories: installation/setup; creating a lean and clean operating system; getting XP to work your way; Internet and email; musical (media player, burning CDs, transferring music to MP3, etc.); visual media (photos, video, scanners, cameras); networking; security; maintenance (updating WinXP and drivers, periodical maintenance, backups, help); disaster recovery; and working with the registry.
Each item is a tutorial preceded by a brief explanation of the particular issues. There are helpful screen shots that support the clearly written step-by-step instructions.
WinXP is more complex than its predecessors, partly because of the need to improve security and partly because of Microsoft's attempts to reduce piracy — and a move towards renting rather than selling software.
This title is an impressive collection of information that will be of practical value to all users. Apart from improved productivity, there is sound advice on how to deal with problems that may arise during updates, such as the application of SP2. A great guide to customising WinXP and, while not set up as a troubleshooting guide, it is worth having as a resource for dealing with problems. Very good value.
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Woody Leonhard: Windows XP Timesaving Techniques for Dummies 2/e ISBN
0-7645-7883-9 Published by Wiley, 574 pp., RRP $44.95 incl. GST |
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Reprinted from the September 2005 issue of PC Update, the magazine of Melbourne PC User Group, Australia
