Code. The secret language of computer science
Code. The secret language of computer science
By: Charles Petzold
Hardcover, 512 p.
This book is on ozon.ru / books.ru
There are quite a few books for programmers from the “must read” category and some of them have already been mentioned many times in Habré (for example, McConnell’s “Perfect Code”). I have not seen many references to this book, although it deserves it. “Code”, in my opinion, is the best book about computers, their device and - most importantly - the essence of programming. The book, not only explains how and why computers work, but also teaches engineering thinking.
First of all, the “Code” gives Understanding - just so, with a capital letter. Understanding what a technically complex and multifunctional device like a computer is, in essence, can only operate with zeros and ones and, moreover, at a rather primitive level (yes, we all knew it before, but the book allows us to experience it). But this is only a part ... The second is sincere admiration for what complex systems it is possible to build using such a primitive basis. Reading chapter after chapter, I felt the feelings that all the pioneers of the computer age were likely to have.
On the example of flashlights, Morse code, Braille and bar codes (with an explanation of the principles of the design of all this), the author introduces us to the basics of coding information. From light bulbs and batteries, we first collect various seemingly trivial devices that later turn into a full-fledged computer. And closer to the end, the author introduces readers to machine codes, assembly language, etc. Everything runs smoothly, clearly, consistently, without incomprehensible hops, a barrage of terrible terms and with excellent lively explanations. I confess, I have not come across such an informative and accessible book for a long time.
')
The big plus is consistent and logical presentation. The fact that "a byte is something consisting of 8 bits" will not fall on you. You yourself together with the author will come to this conclusion. The book is not limited to the message that computers work in binary number system - you will receive a comprehensive explanation of why this system is no less reasonable than decimal, and why it is used in computers. It can be said that the whole engineering experience of the computer era is compiled and presented in the most accessible way.
I would recommend reading this book to novice programmers, undergraduate students of technical colleges (who I am) and just all interested. I think you will not be disappointed =)
By: Charles Petzold
Hardcover, 512 p.
This book is on ozon.ru / books.ru
There are quite a few books for programmers from the “must read” category and some of them have already been mentioned many times in Habré (for example, McConnell’s “Perfect Code”). I have not seen many references to this book, although it deserves it. “Code”, in my opinion, is the best book about computers, their device and - most importantly - the essence of programming. The book, not only explains how and why computers work, but also teaches engineering thinking.
First of all, the “Code” gives Understanding - just so, with a capital letter. Understanding what a technically complex and multifunctional device like a computer is, in essence, can only operate with zeros and ones and, moreover, at a rather primitive level (yes, we all knew it before, but the book allows us to experience it). But this is only a part ... The second is sincere admiration for what complex systems it is possible to build using such a primitive basis. Reading chapter after chapter, I felt the feelings that all the pioneers of the computer age were likely to have.
On the example of flashlights, Morse code, Braille and bar codes (with an explanation of the principles of the design of all this), the author introduces us to the basics of coding information. From light bulbs and batteries, we first collect various seemingly trivial devices that later turn into a full-fledged computer. And closer to the end, the author introduces readers to machine codes, assembly language, etc. Everything runs smoothly, clearly, consistently, without incomprehensible hops, a barrage of terrible terms and with excellent lively explanations. I confess, I have not come across such an informative and accessible book for a long time.
')
The big plus is consistent and logical presentation. The fact that "a byte is something consisting of 8 bits" will not fall on you. You yourself together with the author will come to this conclusion. The book is not limited to the message that computers work in binary number system - you will receive a comprehensive explanation of why this system is no less reasonable than decimal, and why it is used in computers. It can be said that the whole engineering experience of the computer era is compiled and presented in the most accessible way.
I would recommend reading this book to novice programmers, undergraduate students of technical colleges (who I am) and just all interested. I think you will not be disappointed =)
PS: I feel that the review turned out to be somewhat chaotic and perhaps too “admiring”, but this is my personal opinion about this book. Please do not judge strictly :)
Source: https://habr.com/ru/post/68365/
All Articles