B

backing up data

general discussion, 777-781

making backups, 810-814

restoring from backups, 814

software for, 521

when traveling, 401-402

Backspace key, 200

bags, for laptops, 383-384

bandwidth, 169

bar code readers, 223-224

basic input/output system. See BIOS

batteries

charging, 348-349

life of, 320

multiple, 347

replacing

disposing of old batteries, 351

removing old battery and installing new, 350-351

what to look for, 349-350

usage and power drain

battery alarms, 345-347

power meter, 344-345

beep codes, power-on self test (POST), 122

big-box retail stores, 33-34

BIOS (basic input/output system)

changing settings

boot sequence, 125

date and time, 124

default settings, 126-127

diskette drives, 124

hard disk priority, 125

hardware monitor, 126

IDE or ATA drive settings, 124

memory settings, 126

numlock status, 125

power management, 125

checking settings, 410

clearing settings, 127-128

overview, 65, 82-83, 118-121

Power-On Self Test (POST)

beep codes, 122

post diagnostic codes, 122-123

replacing CMOS battery, 128

updating, 128-130

bit depth, 165

bits, 77-79

blocking online content, 743-745

Bluetooth

connecting to Internet, 368

installing, 257-262

letting other hosts find you, 260-261

using Bluetooth as COM port, 261-262

overview, 255-257

using Bluetooth devices, 262-263

boot sequence, changing settings in BIOS, 125

brand name computers, 32

breaks from work, 466-467

briefcase, 633

brightness, adjusting in pictures, 606-607

broadband, 719, 728

buffers, 42, 211-212

building own computer, 36-37

built-in keyboards and monitors, 11

bulk transfers, 248

buttons

on laptop computers, 322

on mice, 217-220

buying a computer

audio controller, 48

case, 44-45

cost, 29-32

graphics controller, 46-47

hard drive, 41-43

inputs and outputs, 43-44

keyboard, 49

memory, 40-41

monitor, 47-48

mouse or other pointing device, 49-50

processor

Intel versus AMD, 38

performance, 40

processor speed, 38-39

speakers, 48

where to buy

big-box retail, 33-34

build own computer, 36-37

screwdriver shops, 34-35

through Web or mail, 35-36