If you are starting with the Productbook Component, you have to now some basic information.
Don't worry it is simple.

First after installation check your configuration so it fits you needs, choose the right maximum image height and width to fit your template.
This may require some testing...
Please run a test first, then changing this setting afterwords does not change the already uploaded pictures.
This means you have to remove the pictures manual and reload them!

Then create a category for your product, and even set-up some subcategories.
Don't forget to publish, otherwise it will not show up.

Upload your product pictures first, otherwise you can not create the product page.

Then make a new product page entering your information and publish it!

To show your Productbook in your site, create a menu entry to link to the component and publish it, you're done!
At least for the first entry, now you got to work on your content...

Again, please run a test to get your picture sizing before going into production.

If you want / need further options etc , look at the How To in the FAQ section.

To show your Productbook categories in your sidebar, I use the Joomla Productbook Module from http://www.phoca.cz/ which does a perfect Job automaticly show your Categories once you published them.

If you are also interested in Search Engine Optimization for Joomla please Check my website on this subject http://www.pathos-seo.com