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Penguin eBooks: Frequently asked questions

To make using Penguin eBooks as straightforward as possible we've put together a list of frequently asked questions. If you don't find answers to your questions here and have any problems with the ordering of eBooks please contact eBooks@penguin.co.uk.

For format specific information, take a look at the link below:
www.adobe.com/products/digitaleditions.

If your problem concerns downloading your eBook please visit the Ingrams customer services website at www.helpeBook.com.

 

1. What is an electronic book?

Electronic books (or eBooks) are digital files comprising of books specially designed to be read on computer screens or the screens of special eBook reading devices.

2. What is so good about eBooks?

eBooks are a fast, convenient and great value way to buy, read and keep the books you want. They can be downloaded in seconds and many eBooks can be stored and carried on a single small computer. eBooks are also interactive, allowing you to search for text, make notes or drawings, and they sometimes have enhanced features in the form of extra content (like DVDs).

3. How do I buy an eBook?

Have a look at the eBooks available at www.penguin.co.uk/eBooks or at the websites of selected online retailers. Choose the title you want and make sure that you have already downloaded the appropriate software to read it. Follow the simple instructions on-screen to purchase and download the title.

4. Do I need a special computer to read an eBook?

No, to read an eBook you will need a computer that can be connected to the Internet. This might be a PC, laptop or certain model of handheld computer. You will also need to have installed and activated appropriate eBook reading software, currently Adobe Digital Editions Doing this will only take a few minutes and it is free!

You can download the free software here:
www.adobe.com/products/digitaleditions.

5. Can I read eBooks on my handheld computer or PDA?

At this time Penguin's eBooks are readable on PCs, Macs or on the Sony Reader, though we expect more devices to become compatible in the coming months.

6. Can I read eBooks on my Macintosh?

Yes, Adobe Digital Editions is available for Mac OS X v10.4.10 or v10.5.

7. Is it safe to download eBook readers and eBooks?

Yes. You will not download a computer virus or any other malicious file when you download eBooks or eBook readers at www.penguin.co.uk/eBooks. Additionally, our commercial eBooks have built-in security and encryption features to protect against copyright violations.

8. Can I order eBooks by phone?

Because these are digital products, they can only be ordered online.

9. Can I order multiple copies of an eBook at once?

No. Because it is not currently possible to buy an eBook for another person you will only need one copy.

10. Do I have to pay delivery charges for eBooks? What about taxes?

You do not have to pay delivery charges for eBooks. However VAT is payable on digitally downloaded products and will be added to the total price of your order.

11. Do I have to be connected to the Internet to read my eBook?

No. Once you have paid for and downloaded your eBook you can read it offline without being connected to the Internet.

12. Can I pay for an eBook with a cheque?

No. eBooks can only be purchased with a credit or debit card at this time.

13. Can I purchase an eBook as a gift?

At this time, eBooks cannot be sent as gifts. eBook orders can only be sent to the email address on your penguin.co.uk customer account.

14. How long will it take to download an eBook?

The download time depends on the size of the eBook you order and the speed of the modem on your computer. Download times for an average-sized eBook according to connection speed vary between 2 seconds for a T1 line and 2 minutes for a 28.8k modem.

15. What if I accidentally skip or erase the page that contains the
      link to my eBook?

You can access the eBook download link again by following the instructions on the confirmation email you receive from Penguin or by clicking the Your Account link.

16. Can I print my eBook?

At this time Penguin eBooks cannot be printed.

17. What is the return policy for eBooks?

All eBooks are non-returnable. For more information please read the Terms and Conditions of Sale and Purchase.

18. What if I have trouble downloading an eBook or a reader?

If you have trouble downloading an eBook or a reader, please visit www.helpeBook.com.

19. Does Penguin accept submissions for electronic publishing?

At this time, no. Please take a look at our advice for writers document.

 

 

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