Review of CompTIA A+ 2006 Q&A (Paperback)

The exam is relatively straighfoward, but the questions are not as stupid as the ones in the book.

Example: "What is the name of the port provided by some older computers that transmits data serially"

HMM THATS A TOUGH ONE.

Heres another:

What program will "diskmgmt.msc" open

A. Disk Management
B. Control Panel
C. Command Prompt
D. Registry

Don't buy this book. Theres plenty of other better books out there.


Product Description
All tests are covered-the Essentials exam, Exam 220-602, Exam 220-603, and Exam 220-604. You'll get omprehensive questions covering every Windows® OS, as well as the Linux® and Mac® OS. Hardware is covered as well-everything from P4 motherboards, notebooks, and printers to PDAs and wireless devices. The accurate content and convenient presentation of questions and answers offers a great solution to studying for these exams! For a complete certification study solution, combine this book with CompTIA A+ 2006 In Depth (1-59863-351-1). CompTIA A+ 2006 In Depth provides thorough preparation for all of CompTIA's latest A+® certification exams but also provides real-worldinstruction on everything needed to support and troubleshoot computer hardware and software. With a true certification focus, CompTIA A+ 2006 In Depth includes a bonus table of contents that directs you straight to the exam objectives within the book. After you've completed your study, jump to CompTIA A+ 2006 Q&A to test your knowledge!

About the Author
Chimborazo, LLC specializes in providing ancillary materials for textbooks at the high school, college, and trade levels, focusing primarily on computer science and information science textbooks. These materials comprise a variety of components, including Instructor-s Manuals, PowerPoint presentations, test banks, and distance learning content. Chimborazo specialists have extensive experience through a combination of university courses, industry experience, and teaching. All Chimborazo employees have completed an MA/MS or Ph.D. in computer or information science.

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Review of The Complete Idiot's Guide to PCs (8th Edition) (Paperback)

This book is out of date.Talks alot about Windows 98, ME and obsolete hardware.Would have been useful around the turn of the century.



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Review of Digital Performer 5 Power! (Paperback)

Don Barrett's Digital Performer 5 Power! describes the features and functions of DP5, but like DP's user manual, the author gets so invovled in explaining the numerous ways to achieve the essentially the same result, the novice user is ultimately left unable to actually use the software to create music.

A better approach would be to provide a quick start guide to producing and playing back a composition, using the simplest point and click tools.Once a new user was confident he or she could do something useful with this not inexpensive software, then additional methods of achieving the same results might be introduced, along with the keyboard short cuts beloved by Mr. Barrett.

There's no question DP is a powerful sequencing tool, but the complexity of the UI is not well described.One's left with the feeling one could read the entire manual and still be unable to produce a musical composition.

Product Description
Digital Performer is one of the leading digital audio workstation programs for the Apple Mac. It allows you to sequence MIDI, record multiple channels of audio, mix them down, synch them to video, and utilize plug-in software synthesizers and software studios. Digital Performer 5 Power!: The Comprehensive Guide provides a versatile guide to setting up and using the newest version of MOTU's Digital Performer 5 audio/MIDI sequencing, editing, and recording software. The book's approach is one that will simplify and demystify the technical aspects of setting up and using Digital Performer 5, while also supplying useful engineering tips and shortcuts to help you get the most out of the program. Chapters and sections progress naturally through the music production process, from navigating the interface, setting up projects, and recording, to working with MIDI, editing, arranging, mixing, mastering, handling music notation, and scoring to picture. This setup allows new users to work through the book from start to finish and learn Digital Performer quickly, while intermediate and advanced users can flip to specific areas of interest to learn new tricks and increase their mastery. Regardless of your skill level, this is the only guide to Digital Performer you will ever need to take your music to the next level.

About the Author
Don Barrett has been a musician since the age of 10. Upon graduating from Purdue University, his training, performances, compositions, and recordings have included projects ranging from progressive rock (with veteran producers Mass Giorginni and Fergus Daly) to studying film scoring at UCLA under the instruction of acclaimed composers Robert Drasnin (Mission: Impossible) and Lee Sanders (The Amazing Race). Don composed the original score for the popular series Touched by an Angel in its final season on CBS and is currently assisting Emmy-nominated and BMI award-winning composer Ron Jones (Fox's Family Guy), where he serves as orchestrator, composer assistant, and technical adviser. He recently completed original music for several short films, numerous Smart Post Sound projects, and the award-winning television pilot 'The Real Life' by creator Krystal Jalene Thomas. Don has also composed nationally recognized concert works and continues to compose and arrange for competitive marching bands and concert percussion ensembles around the country. Don currently resides in Los Angeles and continues to serve as a panelist at various technical seminars and provide guest lectures at the Art Institute of L.A. Currently, Don can be found hard at work in his private studio, promoting Don Barrett Music (www.donbarrettmusic.com) and Patio 7 Productions (www.patio7productions.com).

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Review of SAP Solution Manager (Hardcover)

This book is great if you want to know all the functionality available in Solution Manager.Don't expect to see any step by step help to actually implement it.Good for managers.

Product Description
This much anticipated book shows administrators and IT managers how the SAP Solution Manager (release 4.0) supports them in all phases of the application life cycle. First, you get an overview of all functionalities and learn how the application management approach of the SAP Solution Manager conveniently maps and extends the ITIL model. Then, following the phases of application management, the authors show you how you can use the SAP Solution Manager for requirements analysis, design, composition, deployment, operation, and optimization of your landscape.

You'll find detailed examples with numerous screenshots, which illustrate all key functions of the SAP Solution Manager, such as monitoring, reporting, service desk, change request management or the new field Solution Manager Diagnostics, as well as customer reports from the ramp-up of release 4.0

Highlights:

• SAP Solution Manager and ITIL
• Support in the Application Management Phases
• End-to-End Solution Support
• Change Request Management
• Solution Monitoring and Reporting
• Solution Manager Diagnostics (Root Cause Analysis)
• Issue Management and Service Desk
• Roadmaps and Implementation Content
• Test Support and E-Learning Management
• Planning and Delivery of SAP Services
• Integration of Third Party Tools

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Review of Internet Marketing for Dummies [ILLUSTRATED] (Paperback)

Internet Marketing for Dummies Internet Marketing for Dummies is a must read book for any small business person new to online marketing. There's a lot of hype about marketing on the Internet, but the book's authors Frank Catalano and Bud Smith - do not hype your expectations. I knew that Internet Marketing for Dummies was not going to be another "let down" when I noticed that the authors included many of the online marketing resources that I frequent on a daily basis! Catalano and Smith begin their book by explaining that "Internet marketing" is "marketing" but using the Internet - and this is very important to understand. So many businesses want to rush into "online marketing", but don't have any clue about how even to market at all. The fundamentals of marketing, apply online as well as off line. Internet Marketing for Dummies walks the user through a fast over view of the Internet - explaining what AOl is, as compared to full access to the Internet. This chapter is very helpful for the many small businesses that are really not so sure what the Internet is all about. Chapter 2 and 3 of Internet Marketing for Dummies realy lays in to the nitty gritty of marketing, with a consentration in chapter two on developing an "Internet Marketing Plan" I was very impressed that the authors of this book took a whole chapter to also discuss and help the reader decide their domain name. Your business name, may indeed be "Faulkner, Grade and Berkmenstein" - however, you may wan to try out "greatlawyers.com" for a domain name! There's a lot of gems in Internet Marketing for Dummies , such as a nice section on effectively using email as a marketing tool. On page 155, chapter 8, Internet Marketing for Dummies lists "techniques for gathering visitor information" on your Web site. See, Internet marketing is more than "just" Internet marketing, but its a blend of leveraging your own Web site, reaching out to others, adveritising on Web sites, building an email list and etc. Internet Marketing for Dummies is one of those books you just keep as a guide on your desk and refer to daily. After you've launched some successful online marketing campaigns you'll be a pro and can then refine what you've learned in Internet Marketing for Dummies.

Product Description
This update to Marketing Online For Dummies includes all of the great topics from the original book, plus an additional focus, Internet advertising, a very hot topic. The right Internet advertising campaign can cost very little and make a product launch or even a company a winner; the wrong approach can be a huge waste of time and effort. The authors have hands-on experience doing both guerrilla marketing and million-dollar deals in this critical area. Also covered in this edition is a quick-start guide to getting net-savvy, a survival requirement in the Web marketing world.

From the Author
Internet Marketing For Dummies is based on our first book together, Marketing Online For Dummies. IMFD walks novice online marketers through all the key steps in developing strategy and tactics. IMFD includes new chapters on Internet advertising and public relations, plus updated information on choosing the right domain name, effective e-mail marketing, marketing on your Web site, and how to develop just enough marketing strategy to ensure your tactical marketing efforts are successful and measurable.END

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Review of Beginning DirectX 10 Game Programming (Paperback)

This is a very light introduction to DirectX10, especially to direct3d 10. Beginners should feel very comfortable with this book. The text, most of the time, is clear and the examples are very simple. The math and math explanations involved are kept to a minimum.

The book delivers what it promises and should be taken as a base for further readings.


Product Description
Discover the exciting world of game programming and 3D graphics creation using DirectX 10!"Beginning DirectX® 10 Game Progmramming" is an introductory guide to creating fantastic graphics, amazing creatures, and realistic worlds for games.Written specifically for the beginner programmer, the book uses step-by-step instructions to teach the basics of DirectX 10, introducing skills that can be applied to creating games for both PC and game console platforms.You'll start by learning how to install the DirectX SDK and how to get your first application up and running.From there you'll be introduced to the 2D and 3D graphics components of DirectX allowing you to draw animated sprites and create 3D objects.Put your new skills to the test with a final, hands-on project that shows how to bring together everything you've learned.If you have a basic knowledge of C++ and 3D math concepts then you are ready to learn how to program amazing 3D game graphics with "Beginning DirectX 10!"

About the Author
Wendy Jones devoted herself to computers the first time her eyes befell an Apple IIe in elementary school. From that point on, she spent every free moment learning BASIC and graphics programming, sketching out her ideas on graph paper to type in later. Other computer languages followed, including Pascal, C, C#, and C++.As Wendy's career in computers took off, she branched out, teaching herself Windows programming and then jumping into the dot-com world for a bit. Although Internet companies provided a challenge, they didn't provide fulfillment, so Wendy started expanding her programming skills to games, devoting any extra energy to its pursuit.Wendy's true passion became apparent when she got the opportunity to work for Atari's Humongous Entertainment as a game programmer. During her time at Atari, she worked on both PC and console titles, thrilled with the challenge they provided.Wendy can now be found at Electronic Art's Tiburon studio in Orlando working with some wonderfully talented people on Next Generation consoles.If you have any comments or questions about this book, you can reach Wendy at her website at http://www.fasterkittycodecode.com.

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Review of 3ds Max 8 Bible (Paperback)

Looking through this book I saw immediately that it suffered from the same problem as it's predecessor:lack of thought to the student's learning path.

It is a problem that is almost universal to computer instructional guides do... lack of any educational theory in its writing. It does not guide the newcomer through the art of learning the software, but rather deals with issues as if one is going through the menu commands.The tutorials consistantly use elements and commands that one will not cover for another hundred por more pages, and the chapters are not designed to "build on the student's knowledge" but rather to give all information about a given cocept right from the beginning.Thus, I am taught how to personalise the user interface and use XREFs (external references) before I am told how to create even the simplest of objects.

I am an experienced 3D analylist, with knowledge of CAD and GIS, so I am not the least experienced of readers on this topic.Even so I found it frequently infuriating to attempt to learn this software using this book.

Product Description
If 3ds Max 8 can do it, you can do it too...

Spark your creativity with the world's most popular animation software and the detailed instruction in this power-packed book from an industry expert. If you're new to 3ds Max, jump right in with a Quick Start program that will have you modeling and rendering a complete image your first day. Experienced users, discover exciting new Max 8 features such as a new module for hair and fur, a new cloth system, and much more. This comprehensive book covers every feature, and it's loaded with professional techniques and full color examples to inspire you.

Inside, you'll find complete coverage of 3ds Max 8

• Model a detailed creature right away with the Quick Start tutorial
• Add realistic and dynamic hair, fur, and cloth to your models
• Create complex characters with Max's new biped features
• Use the expanded Edit Poly options to work more efficiently with Edge Ring and Edge Loop selections
• Explore Max's new Asset Tracking system including the Autodesk(r) Vault client
• Make texture creation a snap with the new Pelt mapping method and the Render UVW Template feature
• Save, load, and retarget animation files using the supported XML Animation File (XAF) format
• Easily render a series of stills from several angles with the new Batch Render tool

Bonus DVD Included!

Features a wide selection of 3D models and textures just right for your own projects, plus the Max files and examples to more than 150 tutorials. The DVD also includes a full-color electronic version of the book!

From the Back Cover
If 3ds Max 8 can do it, you can do it too ...

Spark your creativity with the world's most popular animation software and the detailed instruction in this power-packed book from an industry expert. If you're new to 3ds Max, jump right in with a Quick Start program that will have you modeling and rendering a complete image your first day. Experienced users, discover exciting new Max 8 features such as a new module for hair and fur, a new cloth system, and much more. This comprehensive book covers every feature, and it's loaded with professional techniques and full color examples to inspire you.

Inside, you'll find complete coverage of 3ds Max 8

• Model a detailed creature right away with the Quick Start tutorial
• Add realistic and dynamic hair, fur, and cloth to your models
• Create complex characters with Max's new biped features
• Use the expanded Edit Poly options to work more efficiently with Edge Ring and Edge Loop selections
• Explore Max's new Asset Tracking system including the Autodesk® Vault client
• Make texture creation a snap with the new Pelt mapping method and the Render UVW Template feature
• Save, load, and retarget animation files using the supported XML Animation File (XAF) format
• Easily render a series of stills from several angles with the new Batch Render tool

Bonus DVD Included!

Features a wide selection of 3D models and textures just right for your own projects, plus the Max files and examples to more than 150 tutorials. The DVD also includes a full-color electronic version of the book!

Click Here to see more reviews about: 3ds Max 8 Bible (Paperback)

Review of PowerPoint 2003 Bible (Paperback)

The book is quite detailed but everybody can put in a few shareware programs and templates on a CD these days. This CD is a complete letdown. I wish they remove the CD and reduce the cost of this book.

Product Description
* Offers greater focus on Web collaboration and delivery
* Increased coverage with 200 more pages than previous edition including.
* Features expert advice for designing effective presentations effectively communicate with the audience.
* Expanded coverage of graphics and video integration and more coverage of troubleshooting.

From the Back Cover
If PowerPoint 2003 can do it, you can do it too...

It's known as a leading sales presentation tool, but PowerPoint can do so much more. This comprehensive volume shows you not only how to use PowerPoint 2003, but more importantly, when and why. Learn to develop a plan for your presentation, analyze your audience, and make the technology meet your needs.

Then create knockout PowerPoint presentations that will dazzle your audience.

Inside, you'll find complete coverage of PowerPoint 2003

• Incorporate information into a PowerPoint presentation from Word, Access, and Excel, easily and consistently
• Troubleshoot common PowerPoint problems and general presentation problems
• Discover shortcuts and enhancements that extend PowerPoint's capabilities
• Integrate video, sound, animation, and graphics to enhance your presentations
• Learn how to select the most appropriate format for your audience and your objectives
• Manage files, set passwords and encryption, work with multiple presentations, and package your work on a CD
• Use colors, text, clip art, charts and tables, learn to size and position objects, and work with embedded files
• Design self-running and user-interactive presentations and package them for distribution

Bonus CD-ROM and Companion Web site!

• Exclusive Office 2003 Super Bible eBook, with more than 500 pages of information about how Microsoft Office components work together
• Bonus shareware, freeware, trial, demo, and evaluation programs that work with or enhance Microsoft Office
• Searchable eBook version of PowerPoint 2003 Bible
• An easy-to-use interface that allows you to browse and install everything on the CD

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Review of AutoCAD 2005 and AutoCAD LT 2005 Bible (Paperback)

If you are using AutoCAD 2005 or LT 2005 as a beginner who needs step by step instruction or a seasoned AutoCAD user who can use a good reference manual - this book is well worth owning.It is a very thorough and clearly written book. No new or old AutoCAD feature is left unturned.

Product Description
If AutoCAD 2005 or AutoCAD LT 2005 can do it, you can do it too...

If you have invested in AutoCAD 2005 or AutoCAD LT 2005, you want to get the most from these top quality tools. This comprehensive guidebook gives you a ready reference on every detail of both products. The Chapter 1 tutorial gets you going immediately, and the early chapters provide a thorough education in drawing basics. From there, you'll examine layers, text, dimensions, 2D and 3D coordinates, 3D modeling, rendering, customizing the program, and everything else you need to know.

Inside, you'll find complete coverage of AutoCAD 2005 and AutoCAD LT 2005

• Draw and edit 2D and 3D objects, including tables, text, and dimensions, use layers, colors, and linetypes, and print (or plot)
• Work with blocks, reference other drawings, and connect to external databases
• Manage drawing data using tool palettes, fields, and drawing sets, integrate other applications, and post your work on the Web
• Create scripts, custom linetypes and hatch patterns, shapes, fonts, and custom menus
• Program AutoCAD with AutoLISP® and VBA

Bonus CD-ROM!

This value-packed CD-ROM includes:

• Real-world sample drawings integrated with the exercises
• A large assortment of freeware and shareware programs
• Two bonus chapters
• Trial version of AutoCAD 2005
• A searchable version of the book in PDF format

From the Back Cover
If AutoCAD 2005 or AutoCAD LT 2005 can do it, you can do it too...

If you have invested in AutoCAD 2005 or AutoCAD LT 2005, you want to get the most from these top quality tools. This comprehensive guidebook gives you a ready reference on every detail of both products. The Chapter 1 tutorial gets you going immediately, and the early chapters provide a thorough education in drawing basics. From there, you'll examine layers, text, dimensions, 2D and 3D coordinates, 3D modeling, rendering, customizing the program, and everything else you need to know.

Inside, you'll find complete coverage of AutoCAD 2005 and AutoCAD LT 2005

• Draw and edit 2D and 3D objects, including tables, text, and dimensions, use layers, colors, and linetypes, and print (or plot)
• Work with blocks, reference other drawings, and connect to external databases
• Manage drawing data using tool palettes, fields, and drawing sets, integrate other applications, and post your work on the Web
• Create scripts, custom linetypes and hatch patterns, shapes, fonts, and custom menus
• Program AutoCAD with AutoLISP® and VBA

Bonus CD-ROM!
This value-packed CD-ROM includes:

• Real-world sample drawings integrated with the exercises
• A large assortment of freeware and shareware programs
• Two bonus chapters
• Trial version of AutoCAD 2005
• A searchable version of the book in PDF format

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Review of 3ds Max 2008 Bible (Paperback)

This is a great book if you want to learn buttonology, but it seems to lack in student projects and exercises. I certainly cannot recommend this book for beginners, unless you want to use it as reference/supplemental guide to other training material. The author goes in to great deal on the "how" but doesn't really explain the "why" portion as well as I hoped he would. Definetely go to your local bookstore and glance through it before purchasing. As for my rating, I gave it a marginal rating of 3 stars simply because I thought it to be average at best, but far from bad.

Product Description
Master the complexities of 3ds Max by working through more than 150 short tutorials under the guidance of 3D expert Kelly Murdock. If you're a beginner, a Quick Start chapter shows you how to create an exciting animation your first day using the software. You'll find extensive detail on the latest features, allowing quick ramp-up for veterans of earlier 3ds versions. In addition, the book includes a 16-page, full-color insert with examples of cutting-edge 3ds Max art as well as a DVD with all the examples in the book, models and textures you can customize, a full-color and searchable PDF of the book.

From the Back Cover
The 3ds Max reference 3D designers choose

Open this book to any page, and you'll quickly see why the 3ds Max Bible is a perennial favorite of 3ds Max artists. Whether you're a beginner looking for a quick start or an expert exploring the very latest advanced features, it's all here. You'll find pages of professional tips, loads of advice, and more than 150 step-by-step tutorials guaranteed to jump-start your creativity. This is the 3ds Max book you need to succeed.

• Make global changes to multiple objects with Scene Explorer

• Build MAXScripts more quickly with the new MAXScript ProEditor

• Stream and focus light through a window with the Sky Portal

• Create compelling characters using enhanced Biped tools

• Learn to reference, select, clone, group, link, and transform objects

• Discover new keyboard shortcuts for speed modeling

What's on the DVD?
You'll find before-and-after example files for every tutorial in the book. The DVD also includes:

• Unique models and textures you can customize for your own designs

• 3ds Max 2008 trial version

• A searchable full-color PDF of the book

Also in the Book

• A 16-page full-color insert will inspire you with a selection of cutting-edge work done by 3ds Max artists

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Review of Maya 4.5 Bible (Paperback)

This is a good book for users with a good understanding of Maya.It covers alot of things that other books dont.The one major problem with the book is the CD has problems on the windows OS.This is resolved very easily.All you need to do is call the publisher.They will ship you a replacement CD within about a week.Other than that Maya Bible is a very good book

Product Description
* All the information needed to create professional-quality 3D animations and visual effects in Maya, the Alias
* Wavefront/Silicon Graphics software used for special effects in movies such as Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings
* Explains how to move a project from concept to completion-an ideal quick-start alternative to the fourteen volumes of official documentation
* Covers everything from interface basics and modeling to animation, character setup, and effects
* Concise tutorial allows the Maya user to learn by doing with the help of behind-the-scenes production examples from animated television programs
* CD-ROM includes sample models, scripts, shaders, and textures

From the Back Cover
"This book . . . manages to cover a great deal of ground with needed depth in critical areas of Maya, especially those pertinent to character animation. Joe Spadaro and Don Kim have instilled real-world production experience into this massive volume."
-Duncan Brinsmead, Principal Scientist, Alias Wavefront

If Maya 4.5 can do it, you can do it too...

It's not magic, but it's close. With the Oscar® Award-winning tool that created the lovable Stuart Little® and the thrilling special effects in Star Wars® Episode II: Attack of the Clones, you will become your own set designer, actor, director, and cinematographer. In this groundbreaking guidebook, two well-respected TV and movie animators demystify the complexities of this professional 3D modeling animation and rendering program. With concise and expert instruction, the authors show you how to apply proven Maya workflow principles to help you keep your projects on track in the production "pipeline" from conception to completion. In addition, the Quick Start tutorial gives you firsthand experience creating an animation right from the start.

Inside, you'll find co mplete coverage of Maya 4.5

• Navigate the new Maya user interface and take advantage of the powerful Hypergraph, Maya's award-winning dependency graph architecture
• Become skilled in using the Maya Embedded Language (MEL) to script and automate almost anything you can do in Maya
• Discover the sophisticated NURBS advanced curve and surface modeling tools and the suite of polygon modeling tools for games and interactive uses
• Learn the techniques that'll make you a digital puppeteer, and create emotion in 3D characters as well as motion and physical characteristics
• Use Maya Live to match-and-move 3D cameras to a live-action video
• Explore the features of Maya Unlimited, including cloth and fur, and extend Maya using subdivision surfaces
• Study the work of leading animators in behind-the-scenes examples from familiar movies, games, and television shows

Bonus CD-ROM

The interactive CD-ROM includes a variety of clips, images, textures, bonus chapters, and other animation tools

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Review of Master Visually 3ds Max 8 (Paperback)

This book is through and easy to use, organized throughout by individual tasks that you can do in max -- with numbered, illustrated steps for each solution. Never before have I seen 3ds Max operations made so simple -- and yet there is so much power to be tapped in just those few steps. I rate this as "Highly Recommended" for anyone working with 3ds max. It's the kind of book that you can keep by your side for instant answers. I've found this to be a real time-saver that makes me (and my work)look great.

Product Description
* Navigating within the interface
* Creating and editing 2D and 3D objects
* Controlling animation with function curves
* Integrating walls, doors and windows
* Simulating water surfaces and fluttering flags
* Adjusting color and brightness of lighting
* Rendering scenes with Quick Render

Valuable tools on CD-ROM!
* 3ds Max 8 evaluation version
* Project files from the book

System Requirements: Please see the "About the CD-ROM" Appendix for details and complete system requirements.
* "Master It" sidebars answer questions and present shortcuts
* High-resolution screen shots demonstrate each task
* Succinct explanations walk you through step by step
* Two-page lessons break big topics into bite-sized modules

From the Back Cover

• Navigating within the interface
• Creating and editing 2D and 3D objects
• Controlling animation with function curves
• Integrating walls, doors and windows
• Simulating water surfaces and fluttering flags
• Adjusting color and brightness of lighting
• Rendering scenes with Quick Render

Valuable tools on CD-ROM!

• 3ds Max 8 evaluation version
• Project files from the book

System Requirements: Please see the "About the CD-ROM" Appendix for details and complete system requirements.

• "Master It" sidebars answer questions and present shortcuts
• High-resolution screen shots demonstrate each task
• Succinct explanations walk you through step by step
• Two-page lessons break big topics into bite-sized modules

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Review of 50 Fast Flash MX Techniques [ILLUSTRATED] (Paperback)

This book looks like you will learn a lot as there are 50 tutorials.

Unfortunately, many are redundant, many are not really significant (not really useful, just funny), and the last one is a filler as it teaches you how to make a projector.

If you are buying this book from a library, take your time to review the center page that display each "Technique" in color.

It is worth half the price it costs. Not a great deal anyway. At least, you get the source files.

This book is for beginner who wants to have a bit of fun.



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Review of Adobe Photoshop 6 Digital Darkroom (Paperback)

Lisa Lee writes in a down-to-the-point-way. The book is en excellent INTRODUCTION to the digital darkroom. However: this is no specific introduction to using Photoshop 6, as one might believe.
I've not yet had the time to dig reeeally deep into this book, but a few hours of looking through it tells me that the experienced (I'm an ACE in Photoshop) user might feel that this book doesn't contain what one might expect.
Lisa Lee writes about different cameras, going deeper under the surface at one of them. I think that is a good idea, because most of the digital cameras have many options in common.
She also tips the reader on HOW to take pictures, in the short-and-to-the-point-way one needs. (Time is not what we have most of, is it?) I do recommend this book - especially for beginners to intermediate users :)

Product Description
Photoshop 6 is Adobe's well-received, highly acclaimed update to its most popular product. Adobe Photoshop 6 Digital Darkroom is a full-color tutorial-based book that shows you how to work step by step with digital pictures. Learn how to use the newest features in Photoshop, as well as more traditional tasks such as correcting colors, applying effects, and working with layers, channels, and masks. This is a cross-platform guide that shows you how to use Photoshop to create great-looking digital pictures for your Web site. Intermediate to advanced Photoshop users will benefit most from this book.ItemID: 0761531637

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Review of Flash MX Complete Course [ILLUSTRATED] (Paperback)

incorrect pictures, lack of filenames ("drag the main project movie file from the CD-ROM onto your desktop" - there is no file called anything similar so you have to guess), dead end instructions, lack of explanations or results. And that's just in the first session. Some of it you can go back and learn on your own by realizing their mistakes, but most of the omissions and errors are beyond correction. i've been banging my head on my desk trying to determine what i've done wrong, and figured i'd come to amazon to see what the reviews of the book were like. Glad to see i'm not alone. i've never given a book review before but had to save other starving artists like myself from wasting their money. This book is absolutely terrible.

Product Description
Exercises build gradually so that by the end of the book, readers will have created a Flash-based Web site that contains several Web pages.
* CD-ROM contains all raw files needed to reconstruct the project, plus "iteration" files for each session.

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Review of AutoCAD 2008 and AutoCAD LT 2008 Bible (Paperback)

I'm a student who has been using Autocad for the past 4 years. I kind of hit a point where I just kept using the same basic skills that I learned in early drafting classes. This book has helped me to start using more advanced techniques to put my drawings together better and work more efficiently. There were even a few basic skills that I didn't know of that I got from this book. Great reference or starting place for anyone learning or brushing up on Cad skills.worth every cent.

Product Description
"Whether you're new to AutoCAD or a veteran, you will undoubtedly find this book to be an excellent resource."
-- Abhi Singh, AutoCAD Product Manager, Autodesk, Inc.

Here's the book that makes AutoCAD approachable

Even the people at Autodesk look to Ellen Finkelstein for AutoCAD training, so who better to teach you about AutoCAD 2008? This comprehensive guide brings veterans up to speed on AutoCAD updates and takes novices from the basics to programming in AutoLISP(r) and VBA. Every feature is covered in a logical order, and with the Quick Start chapter, you'll be creating drawings on your very first day. Success is in your hands.

* Start drawing right away with the easy Quick Start project
*

Master commands and procedures for 2D drawings
*

Work in 3D with hiding, shading, and rendering techniques
*

Automate drawing annotation and the display of layers in viewports
*

Organize and share data
*

Customize commands, toolbars, hatch patterns, and more

What's on the DVD?

* 30-day trial versions of AutoCAD 2008 and AutoCAD LT 2008
*

All drawings needed to complete the exercises in the book, including before-and-after versions
*

The entire text of the book in searchable PDF format
*

A selection of add-on programs that will enhance your use of AutoCAD

System Requirements: Please see the DVD-ROM appendix for details and complete system requirements

Connect to external spreadsheets and extract essential data from your drawing objects

Draw and display sophisticated 3D models

Develop flexible, easy-to-use dynamic blocks

From the Back Cover
"Whether you're new to AutoCAD or a veteran, you will undoubtedly find this book to be an excellent resource."
- Abhi Singh, AutoCAD Product Manager, Autodesk, Inc.

Here's the book that makes AutoCAD approachable

Even the people at Autodesk look to Ellen Finkelstein for AutoCAD training, so who better to teach you about AutoCAD 2008? This comprehensive guide brings veterans up to speed on AutoCAD updates and takes novices from the basics to programming in AutoLISP® and VBA. Every feature is covered in a logical order, and with the Quick Start chapter, you'll be creating drawings on your very first day. Success is in your hands.

• Start drawing right away with the easy Quick Start project

• Master commands and procedures for 2D drawings

• Work in 3D with hiding, shading, and rendering techniques

• Automate drawing annotation and the display of layers in viewports

• Organize and share data

• Customize commands, toolbars, hatch patterns, and more

What's on the DVD?

• 30-day trial versions of AutoCAD 2008 and AutoCAD LT 2008

• All drawings needed to complete the exercises in the book, including before-and-after versions

• The entire text of the book in searchable PDF format

• A selection of add-on programs that will enhance your use of AutoCAD

System Requirements: Please see the DVD-ROM appendix for details and complete system requirements

Connect to external spreadsheets and extract essential data from your drawing objects

Draw and display sophisticated 3D models

Develop flexible, easy-to-use dynamic blocks

Click Here to see more reviews about: AutoCAD 2008 and AutoCAD LT 2008 Bible (Paperback)

Review of Microsoft Office 2000 Complete (Mass Market Paperback)

This well-written, well-organised book has a superb step-by-step way of imparting knowledge. Everything about it is simple and straightforward. Both the authors and the publisher should be commended. They did a wonderful job. Not to mention the give-away price! Well, the only flaw I noticed is its title. Yes, its name! The book is not "complete" in the real sense of the word. PhotoDraw is missing. But that's the only fault.
I will recommend it to any Office 2000 beginner; or to any intermediate user that has no business with the graphics hassles of PhotoDraw.

Product Description
The best Office value ever! 1000 pages of valuable knowledge for only $19.99. This book is perfect for price-sensitive novice users. Containing vital chapters from many Sybex bestsellers, Office 98 Complete covers every area of importance for all Office users, including topics that go beyond the Office product: full coverage of Office 2000 essential features, Internet browsers and e-mail functionality, Web site planning and creation, Windows 98 tips and procedures, critical PC upgrading and maintenance information, and much more!

From the Back Cover
Microsoft Office 2000 Complete is a one-of-a-kind computer book -- valuable both for its broad content and its low price. This book contains the essentials you need to know to use the different programs and features included with Office 2000.

With Microsoft Office 2000 Complete, you'll quickly take advantage of all that Office 2000 has to offer. Get up to speed with the Office staples Word, Excel, and Access, then move on to organizing your calendar and address book with Outlook, creating stylish documents with Publisher, and constructing dazzling presentations with PowerPoint. Browse the Internet with Internet Explorer, and learn HTML basics and create Web Pages. Two handy reference guides are included: the Windows 98 Command and Feature Reference and a guide to installing Office 2000.

Microsoft Office 2000 Complete introduces you to the work of some of Sybex's finest authors, so you'll know where to go to learn even more about what's possible with the programs in the Office 2000 suite.

Word 2000
Creating, formatting, and printing Word documents
Adding shapes and clip art

Excel 2000
Entering and editing data
Writing custom formulas

PowerPoint 2000
Creating quick and easy presentations
Entering, editing, and enhancing text and graphics

Access 2000
Planning and building a database
Constructing tables and defining relationships

Outlook 2000
Organizing your schedule and planning meetings
Managing contacts and sending e-mail

Publisher 2000
Creating impressive publications
Working with graphic objects

Exploring the Internet
Connecting to the Internet
Learning Internet basics

Introduction to Web Publishing
Creating and formatting your Web pages
Learning HTML basics

Handy Reference Guides
Windows 98 Command and Feature Reference
Installing Office 2000

Click Here to see more reviews about: Microsoft Office 2000 Complete (Mass Market Paperback)

Review of MP3 for Dummies (Paperback)

Andy Rathbone has written a fine book for MP3 devotees, MP3 for Dummies, that provides the very basic of information that people need to get started on this fast booming craze. Rathbone offers his readers an extraordinaryamount of information that the average person on the street can make useof.

MP3 has become hot news! Websites have opened up for businessand offer the latest files, players and programs are being produced, thenumber of court cases involving copyright infringement are on the rise, onelocal university has blocked student access to one file distribution sitedue to bandwidth problems, and yes, some books have been written on thesubject.

MP3 for Dummies provides detailed information about buying,downloading, creating, sharing, and selling MP3 files. Readers will learnabout a number of places where they can buy and download MP3 files andwhere they can have customized CD's created for distribution. Readers alsohave the opportunity to create their own CD's provided that they have theright equipment to do so.

Speaking of equipment, readers will learnabout the latest and the best MP3 players and storage devices on themarket. Furthermore, they will be able to choose and use portable MP3players and learn how to hook them up to home, office, and car stereoequipment for easy listening!

Other helpful information in the bookincludes the debunking of certain MP3 copyright and piracy myths, choosingand using MP3 utilities, finding Websites that distribute MP3 files,learning how to compose your own kind of music, and a variety of tips. Theaccompanying CD contains Windows, Linux, and Mac shareware versions ofpopular MP3 players, a bunch of MP3 sample tunes, and live links toWebsites that distribute MP3 files!

The information in this book isfirst-rate! The cartoons, humor, and wit are great too! Readers will learnto experience the cool sounds of MP3 and chuckle at the same time! The bookwill also contribute to their better understanding and appreciation for Webdevelopment and computer technology. This is a great beginner book for theMP3 community!



Click Here to see more reviews about: MP3 for Dummies (Paperback)

Review of AutoCAD 2006 and AutoCAD LT 2006 Bible (Paperback)

This is *the* AutoCAD book I'll keep at my desk. Whether you're a beginner or veteran user, it will tell you everything you need to know about AutoCAD 2006 or LT 2006. Clear, logically organized reference materials are put into meaningful context by helpful tutorials.

Product Description
If AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT can do it, you can do it too ...

Are you trying AutoCAD for the first time? Upgrading from an earlier version? Switching from another CAD software? Everything you need to know is right here. If you're new to AutoCAD, the Quick Start chapter gets you drawing right away. If you're experienced, go right to the new features of 2006. Each of the book's eight sections focuses on a key element of this complex, powerful program, making it easy to find what you need now and down the road.

Inside, you'll find complete coverage of AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT
* Learn the basics of using commands, specifying coordinates, and setting up a drawing
* Draw and edit in 2D with all of AutoCAD's objects, including the new dynamic blocks
* Create and present 3D drawings
* Set standards, organize with sheet sets, share data between applications, and put your drawings on the Internet
* Customize commands, menus, toolbars, linetypes, hatches, and fonts
* Create scripts, or venture into programming with AutoLISP(r) and VBA

Bonus CD-ROM!

Loaded with extra-value items, including
* A trial version of AutoCAD 2006 software
* More than 130 real-world drawings and files integrated with the exercises
* Stacks of software to enhance and streamline your work
* A searchable PDF version of the book

From the Back Cover
If AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT can do it, you can do it too ...

Are you trying AutoCAD for the first time? Upgrading from an earlier version? Switching from another CAD software? Everything you need to know is right here. If you're new to AutoCAD, the Quick Start chapter gets you drawing right away. If you're experienced, go right to the new features of 2006. Each of the book's eight sections focuses on a key element of this complex, powerful program, making it easy to find what you need now and down the road.

Inside, you'll find complete coverage of AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT

• Learn the basics of using commands, specifying coordinates, and setting up a drawing
• Draw and edit in 2D with all of AutoCAD's objects, including the new dynamic blocks
• Create and present 3D drawings
• Set standards, organize with sheet sets, share data between applications, and put your drawings on the Internet
• Customize commands, menus, toolbars, linetypes, hatches, and fonts
• Create scripts, or venture into programming with AutoLISP® and VBA

Bonus CD-ROM!

Loaded with extra-value items, including

• A trial version of AutoCAD 2006 software
• More than 130 real-world drawings and files integrated with the exercises
• Stacks of software to enhance and streamline your work
• A searchable PDF version of the book

Click Here to see more reviews about: AutoCAD 2006 and AutoCAD LT 2006 Bible (Paperback)

Review of Scanners for Dummies (Paperback)

I have bought several scanning books, but this one is all you need. The author covers the entire process and all the settings, including those buttons and sliders that you have never heard of before. There are two chapters that address basic and advanced image retouching and editing. The tone is friendly and funny and things never get too complex. The troubleshooting chapter has already helped me solve an annoying bug that I've had to put up with since I installed my scanner! Overall, I give this Dummies book a very high rating for anyone that's searching for a scanner or has recently bought one.

Product Description
Fully updated to cover new hardware and technology

Here's how to choose a scanner, set it up, and start capturing images

Flatbed or sheet-fed? USB or FireWire? And what the heck is a dpi, anyway? This handy guide tells you all that and more -- everything you need to know to get the most use, and fun, out of your scanner. Choose the right image editing software, share photos online, even get the scoop on tricks the experts use.

All this on the bonus CD-ROM

• Evaluation versions of Paint Shop Pro® and Photo Album
• Adobe® Photoshop® Elements and Acrobat® Professional tryout versions
• Mac® GraphicConverter and VueScan trial versions
• SnapCopier™ and Ulead PhotoImpact® XL trial versions

Discover how to:

• Buy the right scanner for your needs
• Choose your software
• Fine-tune your scans
• Select and install extra equipment
• Edit images like a pro
• Keep your scanner happy and healthy

Click Here to see more reviews about: Scanners for Dummies (Paperback)