Computer Book Reviews

PHP Programming for Windows by Andrew Stopford
New Riders, May, 2002
Trade Paperback, 336 pages
ISBN: 0735711690
Ordering information:
Amazon.com

PHP Programming for Windows
by Andrew Stopford

PHP is a versatile programming language that is most commonly associated with open source server software such as Apache and Linux, and open-source database tools such as MySQL. However, PHP can also be used with Windows platforms. This reference focuses on using PHP with Windows technologies and covers everything from PHP installation to advanced PHP programming. There is detailed coverage on topics such as COM, .NET, SOAP, XML and ASP, and information about how to use PHP with databases such as Access, Oracle and SQL Server. This is an excellent book for windows developers interested in taking advantages of PHP's ease-of-use for working with popular Windows developer tools such as ASP.

MTIV: Process, Inspiration and Practice for the New Media Designer by Hillman Curtis
New Riders, May, 2002
Trade Paperback, 239 pages.
ISBN: 0735711658
Ordering information:
Amazon.com

Best known for his web design books, Flash Web Design and Flash Web Design: The v5 Remix, and his own design firm, Hillman Curtis has returned with an inspirational guide for new media designers. Curtis, who defines new media as "anything that is digital and plays on a screen", has developed new media designs for a number of high-profile clients, including MTV, Rolling Stone, Intel and Adobe Systems. Part design textbook and part autiobiography, Curtis' latest book provides thoughts to motivate creativity, tips for designers and a look at some unique new media designs. Curtis focuses on three things in MTIV: process, inspiration and practice. In the first section, Curtis tells readers about a unique seven-step process for new media design developed at his company, hillmancurtis, inc. In the second part of the book Curtis discusses inspiration and design and provides a look at what motivates him as an artist. The practice section of the book includes design tips from industry experts including Steve Krug on usability; Ellen Shapiro on grids; Leatrice Eisman on the use of color and Katharine Greene on fonts and typefaces.

To the non-artist, this book might seem too focused on the exploration of ideas and the craft of new media design; however, it is often this creative mindset that helps inspire great artists to do their best work. This book can act as a great motivational book for the new media artist: Hillman Curtis explains what motivates him to communicate through his new media art. Curtis also includes the seven-step process his company, hillmancurtis, inc., uses to concept and design new media features. Curtis' ideas should help to motivate "blocked" artists and his discussion about how he comes up with his many ideas and how he first sketches and storyboards his designs is interesting reading.

What Your Computer Consultant Doesn't Want You to Know by Joshua Feinberg
Small Biz Tech Talk Press, October, 2002
Paperback, 276 pages.
ISBN: 0971415382
Ordering information:
Amazon.com

Business managers and owners are always looking for a way to minimize those expensive computer consultant bills. Joshua Feinberg's latest book gives away the secrets which will allow non techies to avoid hiring a computer tech consultant every time there is a problem. Feinberg also provides practical advice and suggestions for things that can be done in the office that can minimize downtime, confusion and tech calls. The book is organized as a series of tips. Each tip contains a detailed description of the problems and possible solutions, plus additional tips, facts and web links where appropriate. 101 tips are included in the book covering topics like buying computers and software, printer maintenance, modems, Microsoft Office and Windows software, data backups and disaster plans, virus protection and upgrading Windows software. The main focus on the book is saving money through smart purchases and proper maintenance of equipment: great goals for any business. This is a terrific tool for lessening outsourcing costs, preventing disasters and freeing up work time for your employees. Highly recommended.

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Computer Book Reviews

PHP Programming for Windows by Andrew Stopford

MTIV: Process, Inspiration and Practice for the New Media Designer by Hillman Curtis

What Your Computer Consultant Doesn't Want You to Know by Joshua Feinberg