Wiley's Windows XP Visual Encyclopedia does not pretend to meet the dictionary definition of encyclopedia: an elaborate and exhaustive repertory of information on all the branches of some particular art or department of knowledge; especially one arranged in alphabetical order [OED]. Nevertheless, the Visual Encyclopedia is remarkably comprehensive, and is set out in analphabetical order. It is in two parts, each of which has its own alphabetical listing; the first part deals with tools, and the second part with techniques. Readers are assumed to be familiar with WinXP; the book is not designed to be an introduction for novices.

Tools include those elements of WinXP that enable a user to configure, administer, add new hardware, and so on. Techniques is about using the tools for specific purposes. There is some overlap, but that distinguishes between topics such as, 'what is the hardware wizard and where do I find it?', and 'how do I add unrecognised hardware to the computer?'. Where topics do overlap there is a cross-reference flag that points to the 'other half' of the information.

As the title says, this is a visual presentation. The format is to use screen shots with annotation and commentary. There are no in-depth explanations (or any at all) of what underpins a particular tool or technique. It's 'just the facts': step-by-step instructions. Most of the items in the techniques section are accompanied by a boxed item that contains related tips and cautions.

This is a well designed reference that covers the needs of ordinary users. Information is easy to find, is well presented, and easy to follow. It extends well beyond regular day-to-day tasks and housekeeping, showing the reader how to handle things like networking problems, security issues, data encryption, and the command line. The large format lends itself to an uncluttered page layout, and leaves room for reader notes.
 

Kate Chase and Jim Boyce: Windows XP Visual Encyclopedia ISBN 0-471-75686-5 Published by Wiley, 445 pp., RRP $53.95 incl. GST

Reprinted from the August 2006 issue of PC Update, the magazine of Melbourne PC User Group, Australia

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