Includes index.

Contents: The Amazing computer: Introduction to computer systems -- Introduction to the internet -- Interacting with your computer: Standard input devices -- Alternative input devices -- Output devices: Monitors and sound systems -- Devices that output hard copy -- Processing data: Transforming data into information -- CPUs used in personal computers -- Storing information in computer: Types of storage devices -- Measuring and improving drive performance -- The Operating system and user interface: Operating system basics -- PC operating systems -- Networks and data communications: Networking basics -- Networking the home, the office, and the globe -- The Internet and online resources: Internet basics -- Getting online, working online -- Application software: Word processors and spreadsheets: Word processing and desktop publishing software -- Spreadsheet software -- Application software: Presentation programs and databases: Presentation programs -- Database management systems -- Graphics and multimedia: Graphics and graphics software -- Understanding multimedia -- Development of information systems: The basics of information systems -- Building information systems.