What exactly is a computer system? This is perhaps one of the most commonly asked questions for any aspiring computer scientist, also one of the most commonly misunderstood. Computer Systems is a comprehensive, straightforward guide for new students in introductory computing modules. After addressing the question above this book takes the reader from identifying the components of a single simple computer system, to designing an integrated network solution. Along the way the authors explain the common hardware and software issues, illustrate the general rules for computing, such as Boolean algebra and Von-Neumann organisation, and provide clear definitions for Number systems and Information Theory. Expanding upon Neil Willis’ original text, Computer Systems takes account of the most recent developments in modern hardware, the increased diversity of networking software, and the expansion of the internet and related technologies. |
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