Intel-and AMD-powered PCs--which account for more than 90% of all personal computers--are powerful and expandable, and operating systems like Windows and Linux do a great job of running well on this hardware. But to maintain maximum stability and predictability, these operating systems don't push the hardware to its limits.That doesn't mean you can't.PC Hacks shows PC users like you how to get the most out of your hardware and software to make your PC experience more satisfying than ever. You don't need another collection of simple tips and command-clicks; you need PC Hacks, where you'll find proven techniques for enhancing performance and preventing problems with your PC hardware. This step-by-step, hack-by-hack guide, with invaluable tips and tricks throughout, will get you hacking the system board, CPU, BIOS, peripherals and operating system--everything but the unhackable power supply!In PC Hacks, Jim Aspinwall, the Windows Helpdesk columnist and feature editor for CNET.COM and author of three books on PC maintenance, delivers basic to advanced hacks for overclocking CPU and video cards, tweaking RAM timing, selecting the best performing components, and much more. He includes suggestions for reusing an old PC to off-load work from newer systems as well as ways to prevent security hacks. He also offers many tips for avoiding common mistakes--and for getting the system back up and running if something does go wrong.PC Hacks combines of the bestselling Hacks series style with the world's most popular computing hardware. Presented in a clear and direct format and covering both Windows and Linux operating systems, PC Hacks ensure that you'll hack and tweak your way to the best performance possible out of your trusty PC.

Powerful tools to boost productivity Includes 2010 versions of Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and OneNote. Enjoy powerful writing tools, new spreadsheet graph and analysis features and dynamic presentation capabilities. Gives you the tools to help you manage home, homework and business. Office Backstage view makes it easier to navigate tasks. Replaces the traditional File menu and lets you access and manage files. Word 2010 for professional-looking documents. Provides new picture-editing tools and text-formatting effects. SmartArt graphics lets you highlight your documents with diagrams. Easily share your documents online and invite others to collaborate. And you can capture and insert screenshots directly into your document. Excel 2010 for eye-catching spreadsheets and charts. Offers useful insight into many types of data. Simple templates help you build budgets and track expenses so you can focus on financial goals. New Conditional Formatting options let you highlight specific data. New filtering options help you work with your data more effectively. Outlook 2010 to manage your calendar and email. New and improved tools help you communicate with important contacts, manage email conversations and monitor your schedule from your PC or remotely. Allows you to post documents to online folders to access and edit remotely. You can sync multiple email accounts, including those from other services or providers. Includes new graphics and picture-editing tools. And Conversation View lets you condense, categorize and even ignore lengthy email exchanges with a single click. PowerPoint 2010 for impactful presentations. Provides ready-made templates, new photo- and video-editing features and eye-catching transitions. Lets you embed and edit video files directly in your presentations. New transitions and improved animations help captivate your audience. OneNote 2010 to organize notes and information. Lets you gather information and resources all in one spot.