Introduction

As many great ideas of the computing and electronics world were, this book was conceived in a bar. While yours truly was some-what "under the influence" shall we say? However, the following day, the idea seemed very justified, unlike the hangover.

The idea was thus: A guide to computers that dispensed with the techno-babble that would leave a Star Trek officer confused and an overbearing attitude that made you feel like you should be in school again. This book would be easy. This book would be simple to grasp. This book may even make the topic fun. This book, may even, be funny.

This is not a manual.

This is a book, a reference guide, a walkthrough, a wealth of knowledge for those who actually wish to learn. A book designed for those who wish to learn both the basics and the science behind the workings of that strange entity with a keyboard and screen.

In this book I will be taking you through the simple point and click of Windows through to the complex design of the registry and the idea of a command line and some of the electronics and science in between. All of which is available for study or bypassing dependant on your interest or level of knowledge at the moment.

So let's try to have some fun shall we?

This is not a manual.

I hate manuals.