Computer Power User Magazine

Preface

OK, so I admit it I'm kind of a geek. There I said it. And admitting is the first step, right? Oh wait, wrong arena. Anyway, I have always loved new technology, cool new gadgets, and cutting edge products. This has gotten me into trouble in the past with such ill timed purchases as one of the first PCs to use RD-RAM memory. Oops. It used to be years ago that few publications existed for technology geeks. The choices were either a few consumer magazines such as PC World or PC Magazine or trade publications. I soon discovered that PC World and PC Magazine rehashed the same material over and over and rarely printed anything negative. They seemed like one giant add from cover to cover. Then some slick new magazines started to appear. My favorite for many years was Wired which has since lost its edge. A few years ago I found Computer Power User - CPU and although it may not be the most in-depth it sure is fun.

The Magazine

Computer Power User (CPU) is a monthly magazine published by Sandhills Publishing and targeted at geeks. The format is slick with good graphics and an easy to read layout. It reminds me of a technical diving magazine years ago that relied heavily on Adobe Photoshop which gave it a bold, fun look. CPU balances technical information with very good writing and vibrant images that make it a very fun read.

Contributing Writers

CPU draws upon a great group of industry experts to share their views of hardware, software, manufacturers, and trends in the industry. All have their own successful careers and many have their own websites devoted to technology reviews. These people include Alex St. John who helped develop Direct-X for Microsoft and now heads WildTangent a publisher of downloadable online games. Recent issues have had Mr. St. John express concerns over Microsoft's next version of Windows, Vista. According St. John Microsoft is slowly taking away a user's ability to control their PC by locking down administrator functions in the name of security. He is often an ardent critic of Microsoft's sloppy programming and slow response to customer feedback. As he knows the behemoth from the inside out it is always interesting to read what he has to say. Also contributing is Anand Lal Shimpi CEO of AnandTech one of the leading technology websites. Anand takes a no holds barred approach to hardware reviews that praises the good and condemns the bad. Several more contributors include Slashdot founder Rob "Cmdr Taco" Malda, Sharkyextreme founder Alex "Sharky" Ross who although occasionally caustic has a take no prisoners approach to hardware reviews, and Chris Parillo of the Chris Parillo Show and Lockergnome founder an extremely entertaining writer who adds a large dose of humor and information. All of the contributors bring an incredible wealth of knowledge about both hardware and software and their writing is anything but dry and witless.

Content

Another aspect that draws me to CPU is the balance between work and fun. Inside you will find business related articles, articles for PC modders, reviews of a broad range of hardware and software, and sections devoted to gamers. I guess you could say it is just well rounded. CPU publishes announcements of software and bios updates, current average prices of Intel and Athalon CPUs, and news about product advances of yet to come to market technology. They have a great Q & A section that answers reader questions on anything from specific configuration issues, possible compatibility issues, to helping solve software bugs. All of this is done with a sense of humor the makes even the driest topic an enjoyable read. Particularly entertaining is the Mad Reader Mod section where CPU takes a look at the sometimes insane, always creative reader PC customizations. Ever see a PC with a built-in fish tank? You will here.

Reviews

What you won't find are dozens of the same reviews reworded for the top three or four manufacturers. Yes you will see a review of a Dell PC or laptop from time to time but you are just as likely to see a system be VooDoo or Matrox as in this current month's issue. The reviews themselves have gained my trust as unlike other publications they don't appear to kowtow to large manufacturers even when their products are inferior. That is the only way a review should be but unfortunately the reality is far from the ideal. Each month expect to see the latest hard drives, CPUs, RAM sticks, motherboards, video cards, and sound cards reviewed along with a slew of other components and peripherals.

Price

A 1 year subscription is $29.00

Summary

CPU is a great magazine for anyone with a serious interest in technology but doesn't take themselves too seriously.