Computer Systems Architecture: a Networking Approach (2nd...

Features

• Cover Type: Paperback with 752 pages
• Published by: Prentice Hall
• Edition: 2nd Edition December 10, 2006
• Written in: English
• ISBN 10 Number: 0321340795
• ISBN 13 Number: 978-0321340795
• Book Dimensions: 9.2 x 7.2 x 1.1 inches
• Weighs: 2.6 pounds

Book Description
This book presents an incremental look at networked computer systems starting with digital logic and hardware, moving through the layers of software, and leading to an introduction to networking and operating systems. Its practical, modern approach draws upon areas of reader interest and experience (the Internet, Pentium processors, GUIs, mobile communications) to stimulate enthusiasm. This book uses Microsoft's Visual Developer Studio debugger (included on CD-ROM) to provide a brief experience with assembly language programming. This book features an introduction to networking since most computer systems today work in a networked environment. It takes a traditional bottom-up approach using applied technology and ideas, and treats digital logic in sufficient detail to remove the mystery of how computers work. Throughout, the author emphasizes how software performance can be dependent upon hardware features, while practical exercises demonstrate this aspect of hardware/software interaction. This book demonstrates to computer scientists and engineers how computers and their systems work, and will be especially useful for readers looking for a book covering networking issues in computer systems organization and architecture. /*@ISBN = 0-201-64859-8 @MAINCAT = computer hardware @SUBCAT = System Architecture @DATALINE1 = 2001, 680 pages, 7 1/4 x 9 1/8 @DATALINE2 = Cloth Bound w/CD-ROM, $84.00k*/ --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Back Cover Copy


Cover copy

 

Computer Systems Architecture

A Networking Approach

 

Second edition

 

Rob Williams

 

The new edition of Computer Systems Architecture has been brought up to date with extended descriptions of ARM and Itanium processors and an extended

introduction to the field of data communications.  Its established approach emphasizes that the vast majority of modern computers are not stand-alone devices, but cooperate with others in a networked environment.  Numerous practical exercises underline the importance of thoroughly understanding the hardware/software interaction to achieve optimum performance.

 

Highlights of the Second Edition include:

 

Ø      A new chapter on Distributed Computing, introducing parallel, cluster and grid configurations including IBMs Cell processor;

Ø      A separate chapter on Intels 64-bit Itanium processor, a key architecture for the post-RISC era;

Ø      The ARM CPU is used as the primary example of microcontroller design;

Ø      Updated and expanded coverage of USB communications and ADSL broadband equipment;

Ø      New coverage of MPEG algorithms for audio and video compression in portable devices.

 

 Computer Systems Architecture is an ideal introductory text for students of Computer Science or Engineering, laying the foundations for more detailed courses on Networking.

 

Dr Rob Williams is Head of the Computer Systems Technology School at the University of the West of England in Bristol, specializing in Real-Time systems.  He has also worked as a Microprocessor Systems Engineer for GWE/GKN, Marconi Avionics and Nexos Office Systems.