Computer Book Reviews

Absolute PC Security & Privacy by Michael Miller

Synex, August, 2002
Trade Paperback, 530 pages
ISBN: 0782141277
Ordering information:
Amazon.com


Absolute PC Security & Privacy
 by Michael Miller In this age of online privacy threats, spam, trojans and viruses you definitely need a book like Absolute PC Security & Privacy. This book lists many of the potential problems (including many you may not even be aware of), then provides methods for avoiding them and solutions for fixing and removing them if you have already been affected. We can all understand the damage and frustrations a virus can cause -- what is more difficult to comprehend are the potential privacy problems and hidden security risks, such as someone obtaining your credit card or other personal information. For example, what risks is your teenager creating for you when he uses one of those file swapping services? Fortunately, in addition to listing the many ways your personal information can be accessed and stolen, the book also provides methods for protecting your information. The book also helps readers understand complicated subjects such as cookies, firewalls and secure servers. In addition, the book includes sources and websites for keeping up with new viruses and new privacy concerns. In this early stage of the Internet, proper security is absolutely essential to safeguard your privacy. This book is a must-have for all PC users. Highly recommended.


Photoshop Type Effects Visual Encyclopedia by Roger Pring

New Riders, June, 2002
Trade Paperback, 190 pages.
ISBN: 0735711909
Ordering information:
Amazon.com


Photoshop Type Effects Visual Encyclopedia
 by Roger Pring As exciting as animated graphics, flash and original artwork are, it is important not to overlook the importance of typography. Displaying your headings, topics or menus with good, clear visual effects can really make a section of a website or important elements of your sales brochure stand out and draw a reader's eye. This book helps show you how to create numerous professional-looking type effects using Photoshop, and teaches you the fundamentals so you create many more effects on your own. The book includes hundreds of stunning type effects such as Frosty, Into the Fire, Pond Life, Slippery When Wet, Warped Type, Genuine Antique and Polished Chrome. Each effects is explained through simple instructions and screen shots. The book also includes an introduction section which provides a quick overview of the fundamentals involved in creating type effects. The appendix includes information on all the built-in Photoshop filters, as well as some of the best third-party filters. The accompanying CD-ROM contains the effects shown in the book. The Photoshop Type Effects Visual Encyclopedia is an excellent guide that no graphic designer, Photoshop user or web developer should do without.


Shockwave 3D by Jason Wolf

New Riders, May, 2002
Trade Paperback, 210 pages.
ISBN: 0735711976
Ordering information:
Amazon.com


Shockwave 3D
 by Jason Wolf This book by Jason Wolf, a co-creator of Shockwave technology, teachers users how to use Shockwave 3D, a new technology that allows developers to create 3D applications and content for use on the Web. The instruction in the book begins with a concise introduction to new features in Director, including behaviors and the DCR file format for publishing on the Web. The book provides coverage of topics such as using behaviors, creating 3D files and Lingo programming, while guiding the reader through real-world Shockwave 3D examples. Detailed sections on Lingo coding are provided, including a section on Havok, a a physics library that allows developers to create worlds that incorporate real, physical interactions between models -- such as a realistic race car-driving game. The book also teaches readers how to export 3D scenes in director, add interactive behaviors and publish content on the Web. A final chapter in the book provides sources for additional information about Shockwave 3D. The companion CD-ROM includes real-world examples from third-party developers, code, links, installers for Shockwave 3D and other sample files. Shockwave 3D offers developers great insight and information into this powerful new technology. Some prior knowledge of Director, Lingo and Shockwave 3D is recommended.


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