Issue 237, December 2005
This month we unveil the new PC Plus; for readers more concerned with interesting technology than just the resulting product. The new approach will stand out from the crowd by presenting and supplying thought-provoking content in a way that you won't find anywhere else. Everything expected of a prestige, respected computing title still exists, but the clarity and depth of the editorial has been enhanced. Now in its nineteenth year, PC Plus is firmly established as the advanced computer users' read.
Buy issue 237 today by clicking here
Features
Microsoft's strategy of expanding into as many markets as possible is challenging the dominance of Adobe and Macromedia - something that only Redmond's finest could really attempt, but its success is by no means guaranteed. Is it spreading itself too thin and opening the way for further competition?
Also, get the essential scoop from security professionals and government ministers on the fight against cyber terrorism - could the Internet be just as deadly as the bomb?
Insight
PC Plus doesn't just report the latest news on IT products and services. Our deeper analysis helps make sense of the burgeoning technology trends lurking beneath the latest stories. This month we look at how aggressively lowered prices mean IT businesses are unlikely to get the benefits they deserve. Plus comment on DRM, the new Vista beta, World of Warcraft's deadly infection, Linux's ongoing move onto your mobile, all the latest opinion from our venerable columnists, and much more besides.
Reviews
Reviews in PC Plus get right under the skin of the aspects that matter - we concentrate on the core technologies that really make a difference to your computing experience. Is Crossfire really worth the money it requires, and is it even going to last? What software technologies are going to carry you into 2006, and what hardware should you be running them on? These questions and more answered in this month's new look Reviews section. Plus, there's a glut of anti-spyware applications out there, and many do a better job of deflecting rogue software than others. we dissect four of the best, and test twelve to see how they compare. And there is the return of Gateway: US manufacturer returns to the PC fold after a 5-year hiatus. Has it been worth the wait for new kit? Find out what our experts thought of Gateway's £600 entry-level machine.
HelpDesk
HelpDesk maintains its commitment to solving your PC dilemmas, and perhaps teaching you something in the process. Our team of experienced technical journalists, backed up by years of support experience, head up the newly redesigned section. With added ease of navigation, HelpDesk is now even further tailored to giving you the answers you need. You won't find a greater breadth of combined computing prowess anywhere else.
SuperDisc
PC Plus is proud to bring you the most diverse cover DVD of any magazine. In addition to the latest product demos and updates, we've specially selected full-version programs accompanied by first steps tutorials in the magazine. We also supplement your monthly read with videos, eBook reference material and a utility library cramming in over 100 essential tools. Seriously good content for any serious reader.
This month's full software
Canvas 8 - one of the most powerful vector graphics applications in the world, worth £200 OpenOffice.org 2.0 - everything you could possibly expect from office software, plus open-source and free Registry Mechanic 4 - scan your system and rid it of redundant or invalid registry entries, worth £20 Invoice2Go 2 - if you work from home you'll know the importance of good paperwork. Sort out your invoices with this full program Steganos Safe 6 - create a virtual drive which encrypts files you copy to it, worth £20 ClusterKnoppix - a multi-node version of Linux, suitable for creating Beowulf-style cluster supercomputers Audacity 1.2.3 - enrich your sounds with this popular application.
Plus trials of Invoice2Go 3, Dreamweaver 8, Flash 8, Meator 8 Pro, Registry Mechanic 5, Spyware Doctor 3.2, and Steagnos 8 Safe, along with our regular collection of the most essential PC apps around.
What else is new?
The new look PC Plus doesn't stop there. We've got new sections for web developers, plenty of tips for hands-on enthusiasts, coverage of Linux, programming and productivity, and an exciting new look that reflects our refreshed attitude towards the intelligent side of computing. PC Plus was founded in 1986, and has since been a perpetual choice for the serious computer enthusiast. We guarantee to bring you a wealth of experience, independent advice and value for money every month.


