Product Description

This book constitutes the refereed proceedings of the 13th IFIP WG 10.5 Advanced Research Working Conference on Correct Hardware Design and Verification Methods, CHARME 2005, held in Saarbrücken, Germany, in October 2005.

The 21 revised full papers and 18 short papers presented together with 2 invited talks and one tutorial were carefully reviewed and selected from 79 submissions. The papers are organized in topical sections on functional approaches to design description, game solving approaches, abstraction, algorithms and techniques for speeding (DD-based) verification, real time and LTL model checking, evaluation of SAT-based tools, model reduction, and verification of memory hierarchy mechanisms.

Product Description

The only Cisco authorized textbook that supports the IT Essentials I: PC Hardware and Software online course within the Networking Academy

• Portable desk reference that compliments the online course
• Written by the developers of the online course - information straight from the source
• Accompanying CD-ROM contains interactive e-Labs, practice test questions for the CompTIA A+ exam, and more

The IT Essentials I: PC Hardware and Software online course and the CompTIA A+ certification exam were revised in late 2003.Cisco Press published a supplement to assist with these revisions that was bundled with the first edition of the Companion Guide. The Second Edition of the IT Essentials I Companion Guide incorporates all the information from the supplement, and includes additional material that complements the revised IT Essentials I online course.The Companion Guide is a portable desk reference of the course material that can be used anytime, anywhere. This textbook is designed to reinforce the material in the course, and to help students focus on important concepts and organize their study time for exams.

1587131366x020204

Customer Reviews (2)

Glaring errors abound, both technical and grammatical
I went through this text chapter by chapter. I worked it fully as part of an A+ curriculum at a Career Technical School, including accompanying workbooks, labs and online testing through Cisco's Net Academy. Therefore, I believe I'm very qualified to give it a worthy review. So here goes...

I'll start off with the good stuff. The book did prepare me for the A+ certification tests; though I'm glad my school program didn't expect it to carry the educational burden all on its own. The Cisco text was all that was offered for the hardware portion (it's a balance of hardware and software information). In addition, our class worked a two book set from ElementK, which was excellent.

Now back on track: I feel that the Cisco program is headed for providing a fine tutorial for computer geeks to be. In my opinion it presented important knowledge in good order, understandable language and context. It's got potential.

The problem is that it appears to be a *very* rough draft that was rushed out to market and never edited again. It is stacked to the brim with miscaptioned images, confusing sentences, tested or reviewed information that's never covered in the chapter being quizzed. There are plain technical screw-ups where incorrect and sometimes dangerous information is given. In short, I'm very glad I came into it having a comfortable relationship with PCs, because, otherwise, I might have damaged something along the way, or burned the book as a sacrifice to the gods of better editing.

Don't give Cisco your money. They're trying to pawn an alpha test off on you as a functional product.

Cisco lends a helping hand to the new folks of the IT world.
At first glance, I was a little shocked to see Cisco Press publish a book titled,
I.T. Essentials 1: PC Hardware and Software Companion Guide. After all, this is a company in which its name is synonymous with routers and switches. However, this book is intended for those folks who are just starting out in the I.T. world and those of who are attending an Authorized Cisco Network Academy. That does not mean that you have to be a student of an Academy to grasp the practices and concepts packed in this guide.

This book was designed for individuals who want to understand the workings of a computer, both hardware and software. I.T. Essentials 1 does a great job in covering the basics of computers while teaching you how to prevent, maintain, and troubleshoot both hardware and software issues. The companion guide is laid out in the normal Cisco Press fashion we have grown accustom to - starting out with the chapter objectives and ending with a chapter summary and "Check Your Understanding" review questions.

As expected, I.T. Essentials 1 is packed with screenshots, figures, and diagrams to help illustrate the information clearly. For those of you who wish to pursue their A+ certification, this book will not disappoint you. All thirteen chapters are dedicated to help you achieve your CompTIA A+ certification.

The accompanied CD-ROM contains three test engines as well as interactive labs, videos, and PhotoZooms. For individuals studying for the CompTIA A+ exam, supplemental material includes a certification map that correspond the books chapters to the A+ exam objectives.

One thing I did find disappointing with the book was the organization, you're the lack there of. The chapters appear to be in no particular order. I found myself jumping around from one topic to the next and then back again. However, this would hardly be a reason not to purchase this book.

In the end, I felt Cisco Press; et al did a great job in relaying the information clearly. Weather you are a student at an Authorized Cisco Network Academy, an individual just starting out in the I.T. world, or someone who is studying for their CompTIA A+ certification I.T. Essentials 1: PC Hardware and Software Companion Guide will not disappoint you. ... Read more

Product Description
Don't understand computers (or all the powerful technologies that go with them)? You're not alone. Here's your solution: The Essential Guide to Computer Hardware. It's a 100% non-technical, math-free introduction to every type of computer and communications hardware, from PCs to Palms, digital cameras to cell phones. Jim Keogh starts with the elementary-school science you need to understand how computers and networks work. From there, you'll follow a clear, straight path that leads you through the technology behind cell phones, PCs, personal digital assistants, mobile devices, digital cameras, CD-ROMs, hard disks, speech recognition, WebCams, networks, computer audio, computer video, and more. The final chapters focus on the business side of computer hardware. Keogh takes you on a tour of the movers and shakers who drive the business: companies you'll recognize from Wall Street, as well as exciting new companies that aren't yet household names -- but will be. An ideal resource for anyone who wants to understand computer and communications technologies, including a wide range of non-technical people called upon to manage or use these technologies in their organizations. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Explained in words that I could even understand
Computer technology is a challenge to understand. It keeps changing quickly and its difficult to gain a basic understanding of it. However, I think Keogh's laid-back easy to read writing style brings technology down to a level that the average Joe on the street like me can understand. He starts with the very basic concepts then gradually brings you into the latest technology without skipping a beat. I found myself say, "that's how its down. It's so simple why do they make it sound so complicated."
And best of all he covers digital video, digital audio, and other technologies that you don't think of as being computer hardware. I can't wait for his next book on technology.

Most up to date book I've read. Coverall more than PCs
I was pleasantly surprise to read the wide variety of computing devices covered in this book. Not only did the author bring me up to date on the latest PC technology, he also covered PDAs, digital cameras, MP3 devices, wireless devices, scanners, practically anything I wanted to know about. Best of all Keogh explained how these technology work in a way anyone could understand it. Another advantage I found over other books is that Keogh provided an insight into the entire technology industry - company by company. I give this two thumbs up. Good job!

Most updated source I've found
This book hit the nail on the head for me. A good, easy to understand guide to all kinds of computer hardware. I particularly found the author's treatment of PDAs, digital cameras, and mobile computing devices very useful. Most other books on computer hardware only cover PCs. This book covers PCs and nearly every kind of computing device on the market. I give the author two thumbs for covering more than PCs. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

The only book there is?
Image generation -- especially real time image generation -- is a VERY difficult subject to present.. or to understand.In the present case the book does not sufficiently cover the priciplesof perception -- how humansperceive the outside world and thus how visual information must bepresented to maximize its impact. Certainly, the importance of flicker,peripheral vision, contrast and the acuity of the human eye are essentialto presentation of image generation theory and practice.

The importanceof polygon rates and pixel fill rates were not presented adequately.Inaddition, transport delay and its destruction of valid training benefitswas not adequately covered. The fact that image generators have internalprocesses which can vary in processing time from frame to frame was notadequately covered.

The various methods of handling levels of detail andtheir impact on frame rates and transport delay were not covered.

Moredata on the impact of Phong shading or Gouraud shading on frame rates wasneeded.

A better discussion of nearest neighbor, MIP MAP, bilinear MIPMAP, triliniear MIP MAP and Anisotropic texture was needed.

As fordisplay systems, collimated displays -- glass and MYLAR -- and especiallyCalligraphic displays are all essential to understanding real time imagegeneration and its display systems. ... Read more

Product Description

Nurse your PC back to health with a little help from Leo Laporte. Leo Laporte's PC Help Desk in a Book uses a unique, medical dictionary approach, complete with symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment for all of your common and not-so-common PC maladies. Flow-charts will help you correctly diagnose and treat such problems as:

• Windows installation woes
• Storage device tragedies
• Printer problems
• Pesky audio, video and general multimedia mayhem
• Keyboard and mouse afflictions
• Home networking headaches
• Core PC hardware issues
• Application failures
• Viruses, spyware and spam infections

Customer Reviews (7)

Leo Laporte's PC Help Desk
Great for your computer it can help ya in a lot of stuff you don't know.

PC Help Desk Power
Leo Laporte's PC Help Desk is most helpful, filled with easy to understand explanations and solutions to some overwhelming problems anyone could encounter with the "old" PC.Recommended reading for all PC users, and well worth the price.

A great book for beginners and intermediates
I have been involved in computers and networks since Windows 3.1. I have seen every problem and issue you can imagine. Just when I thought I knew it all, the PC showed me who was boss time and time again. This was my hobby that turned into a high pay career until outsourcing killed the profession.

I had years to learn, develop and grow. You have problems right now and need them solved cheaply...today! This book is not a complete, all encompassing reference guide. It goes over the most common and most likely problems you will face. WHICH IS PERFECT!!!

I remember Leo from the ZDTV days with Sumi Das and others. He has continued on to provide the MEAT of material that will matter to you the MOST! He goes over locations of inputs and outputs on the front and back of the computer, there are nice, clear well laid diagrams, and it seems they were using Windows XP 64bit edition! Pretty cheeky Leo!!!

That said, this book is a year old. If you end up buying a computer with/or upgrading to Windows Vista...90% of this book will be obsolete. hopefully, Leo will release a new version in the next 6 months.

If you want a complete (skull numbing) reference book for your shelf, check out anything by Scott Mueller (Upgrading and Repairing PCs - 17th Edition). Scott can't be beat.

Leo's Got IT Covered
For those of you know do know Leo Leporte, let me fill you in.He's one of the busiest, friendliest, and very knowledgeable guys around today.He's on TV, the radio, and on a dozen podcasts.Leo knows technology.

The PC Help Desk is the most thorough book you can find when it comes to understanding and troubleshooting your Windows based PC.Now, personally, I own a Mac.However, most of my family owns pc's.So this book was a gift to my parents to help them figure out any problems they might have when I can't get over there right away.

Finally, although we're talking computers, it is written in a friendly everyday language.There is humor to diffuse any anxiety you might have about technology talk.It's very down to earth.I recommend this to anyone who gets baffled by his or her PC.

Excellent computer reference work
This is a great book.Easy to read for beginners, but detailed enough to be usefull.It has a handy index for quickly locating items of interest.It covers the basics of most all aspects of computing, and is quite educational for newbies.I find it a fine reference tool. ... Read more

Product Description
This manual serves equally well as a teaching guide for CompTIA's A+ Core Hardware Exam and as a useful general reference for the PC hardware technician.A thorough guide, it examines the basic components of computer hardware systems, as well as upgrading and troubleshooting computers.An easy-to-read approach is applied to the discussions of each primary component so that readers learn how each component functions, along with the key installation and troubleshooting tips related to that component.Detailed coverage also explores moving and storing data, networking computers, and remote communications. ... Read more

Product Description
Written by best-selling author and instructor Jean Andrews, this edition maps fully to the 2006 A+ Exams. This full-color guide is designed to be the most complete, step-by-step book available for learning the fundamentals of supporting and troubleshooting computer hardware. Video clips are available on the accompanying CD so readers can watch the author bring concepts and technical topics to life via live demonstrations. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Easy Read, Good for Beginners
Overall it's a good book.It's very easy to understand.The videos included in the CD are great.I would suggest watching them before reading the chapters since they help you see what's going on.This book was required for a hardware class at school, the main reason I bought it.

I gave it 4 stars because some answers for the review questions are hard to find.You really have to dig to find the answers.Some answers are found in applying concepts and side notes.Otherwise it's a good book for beginners and a good reference for those of us with some experience.The only book I'd recommend for A+ over this book is CompTIA A+ Complete published by Sybex.

I've been A+ certified since 2008.I think it's a worthwhile move regardless what your career and educational goals are.This book and it's partner (A+ Guide to Software)along with the Sybex one mentioned earlier are good places to start.That and as much hands on experience as you can get.

CompTIA Preperation
Bought this for CompTIA class, great detailed book and easy to read.This text has great chapter tests.

Very Good Book
Jean Andrews is an excellent author, everything is explained well without putting the reader to sleep. Quick ship, book was like new.

OMG you are great.
I just have to say OMG, I received my order from imgarciaz. I will, without a doubt, if at all possible be using this seller in the future. This seller was very faster in service and I received the book in an crazy amount of time. This seller is AWESOME.
I recommend this seller to everyone.

Thank you Amazon.com you are fantastic.

Book Purchase
The shipping was fast, quicker than an order I placed on Half-price books. The book was as described on link. Very pleased with the purchase. ... Read more

Product Description
". . . the bible of `post-PC' thinking." -- Business Week

"Don Norman has established himself as high technology's leading thinkeron user interfaces and on why PCs are too complex." -- Wall StreetJournal

Technologies have a life cycle, says Donald A. Norman, and they mustchange as they pass from youth to maturity. Alas, the computer industrythinks it is still in its rebellious teenage years, exalting intechnical complexity. Customers want change. They are ready for productsthat offer convenience, ease of use, and pleasure. The technology shouldbe invisible, hidden from sight.

In this book Norman shows why the computer is so difficult to use andwhy this complexity is fundamental to its nature. The only answer is todevelop information appliances that fit people's needs and lives. To dothis, companies have to change the way they develop products. They needto start with an understanding of people: user needs first, technologylast--the opposite of how things are done now.Amazon.com Review
Currently, computer users must navigate a sea of guidebooks,frequently asked questions (FAQs), and wizards to perform a task suchas searching the Web or creating a spreadsheet. While Donald Normanacknowledges that the personal computer allows for "flexibility andpower," he also makes its limitations perfectly clear. "The personalcomputer is perhaps the most frustrating technology ever," hewrites. "It should be quiet, invisible, unobtrusive."His vision isthat of the "information appliance," digital tools created to answerour specific needs, yet interconnected to allow communication betweendevices.

His solution? "Design the tool to fit so well that thetool becomes a part of the task." He proposes using the PC as theinfrastructure for devices hidden in walls, in car dashboards, andheld in the palm of the hand. A word of caution: some of Norman'szealotry leads to a certain creepiness (global positioning bodyimplants) and goofiness (electric-power-generating plants inshoes). His message, though, is reasonably situated in the conceptthat the tools should bend to fit us and our goals: we sit down towrite, not to word process; to balance bank accounts, not to fill incells on a spreadsheet. In evenly measuring out the future ofhumanity's technological needs--and the limitations of the PC'scurrent incarnation--Norman presents a formidable argument for arenaissance of the information appliance. --JenniferBuckendorff ... Read more

Customer Reviews (25)

Can't believe this got past the editor. Can't believe this got past the editor!
I only at chapter 2, but I need to rant. I'll update this review when/if I finish the book. I can't believe they allowed this to be published, the writing is horrible. Chapter 2 could be done in 5 pages, but Norman goes on and on REPEATING the same ideas and sentences. Every 2 pages he goes through the exact same points again, many keywords are reused. It's just a pain to read.

I haven't finished reading this book but I needed to take time out to rant. Maybe I'll update this review when I finish reading...this review is longer than it needs to be...due to repetitions...just like this book.

All CIO should change the plicy for the PC.
All CIO should change the policy fot the PC.
Many people waste many time to manage the complexed PC.
If there is a simple computer, we can make happy.
It is sad taha there is no simple computer.
ps.
"Being analog" is a title of section 7, and a part of Japanese version title of this book.
If we can do analog, we will be happy.

The Case for Information Appliances
The content strives to support the design of information appliances due to the complexity of the computer coupled with creeping featurism.Human centered design must be used to overcome the increasing complexity.

Chapters 7 (Being Analog) and 8 (Why is Everything So Difficult to Use) are reminiscent of Things that Make Us Smart and The Design of Everyday Things also by Norman.

Chapters 9 and 10 focus on human centered development by defining it as a process and then describing 'immutable principles' that should apply.Six disciplines of user experience are identified.

As I progressed through the book, I had to continually return to the cover and back pages, rereading the title and description to remind myself of what the book is about.Read the two referenced books first!

Save your money
Short and sweet: Don't waste your money on even a used version of this book. If you want to buy a book see some of the recommendations made by other reviewers. Get something for your money.

Not his best work
I'm a fan of Donald Norman's work so when I finally had a
chance to pick up "The Invisible Computer" I had high hopes.
Unfortunately, this work didn't provide the same insight and
focus as his previous books such as "The Design of Everyday
Things".

Throughout the work Norman draws upon "Crossing the Chasm"
and "Inside the Tornado: Marketing Strategies from Silicon
Valley's Cutting Edge" [both by Geoffrey Moore]. Also
heavily emphasized are the ideas put forth by "The

Innovator's Dilemma: When New Technologies Cause Great Firms
to Fail." All of these books are interesting--but I wanted
something from Norman himself.

Chapter 7, "Being Analog", was more in line with what I had
come to expect from Norman. He ends this chapter with this:
"Alas, most of today's machines, especially the computer,
force people to use them on their own terms, terms that are
antithetical to the way people work and think. The result is
frustration, an increase in the rate of error (usually
blamed on the user--human error--instead of on faulty
design), and a general turning away from technology. Will
the interaction between people and machines be done
correctly in the future? Might schools of computer science
start teaching the human-centered approach that is necessary
to reverse the trend? I don't see why not." That's what I'm
looking for! If only the rest of the book had followed that
passion.

Instead focusing on human factors and man-machine

interface issues, Norman wanders discussing substitutable
goods vs. nonsubstitutable goods, a rehash of why software
is hard to write (and the mythical man month), and even some
embarrassing admissions now that he'd spent some time outside
academia and worked a bit in industry: "Time, or rather the
lack of it, I was starting to learn, is one of the greatest
barriers to quality". As my young nieces would say to me,
"duh!"

Finally, although written in the late 1990's with the

paperback edition published in 1998, I found the text to
already be a bit dated. You don't realize how quickly the
computer industry moves until you find a book frozen in time
like this one.

My recommendation is to read Norman's other works and the
works he recommends here (Crossing the Chasm, Inside the
Tornado, and Innovator's Dilemma). Finally, I recommend
"Machine Beauty" by David Gelernter. It provides more
passion and keener insights than this work--and is generally
more fun to read! ... Read more

Product Description
Acts as a complete resource for anyone interested in 3D modelling, providing detailed coverage of both realistic and nonrealistic images.Deals with the processes involved in converting a mathematical or geometric description of an object (a computer graphics model) into a visualization (2D) that simulates the appearance of a real object.Amazon.com Review
The third edition of Alan Watt's 3D Computer Graphics, a bible of computer graphics, includes a CD-ROM full of examples and updated information on graphics and rendering algorithms. The book discusses many of the techniques that have evolved in the seven years since the previous edition was published.

3D Computer Graphics is a textbook, and it's designed for serious programmers creating graphics applications (not end users). Over the course of 16 sections, Watt introduces the concepts and implementation of computer imaging, from "Mathematical Fundamentals of Computer Graphics" to "Representation and Rendering" and ending with "Image-Based Rendering and Photo-Modeling." The last section, devoted to computer animation, includes methods for linked structures, collision detection, and particle animation (to name a few).

Although the topics are sometimes hard to grasp, Mr. Watt writes clearly and concisely, making generous use of diagrams to help convey the principles described in the text.

The accompanying CD-ROM includes over a dozen studies of computer graphics techniques and rendering algorithms. Presented in HTML, the exhaustive studies, each with a matrix of thumbnails, demonstrates the varied achievable results. One minor complaint here: although the thumbnails can be clicked to view a much larger image, the larger versions come in .tif format, which few (if any) Web browsers can view. Users will need another application to view them. Having the large image in .jpg format would have enabled the reader to view it in the already-open Web browser.

3D Computer Graphics is ideally suited to graphics programmers and researchers working to create new medical imaging devices; geological research systems; virtual structural testing systems for aircraft, cars, and spacecraft; or effects and photorealistic Hollywood animation. --Mike Caputo ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Is this book writen in English ??
I would recommend the author to learn how to speak English before to write a book.

Very tough
I am a junior student at Computer Engineering major. I am taking a computer graphics course and unfortunately, the instructor chose this title as the textbook.

I am not saying it is a bad book or something, but it is targeted to people who have some experience with computer graphics.... (e.g: for people doing graduate studies in computer graphics) As for me, my first encounter with computer graphics in this book made me hate the topic so much. The book makes you feel that graphics involve so much mathematics, especially analytic geometry. It is so hard as an introduction to the topic of Computer Graphics.

I would not recommend this book at all as an introduction to computer graphics, it may be good for those who have some (actually a lot) of experience in this so advanced topic.

a Disk version is wanted for the text
This is no doubt a very good book, but as a professor who wants to use it as a textbook, I can't make a powerpoint lecture notes from this book for my class presentation. I would like to have a disk version that goes together with the book.

classic
I have an earlier version of this book and I've always found it to be one that I return to time and again.It was one of the first three graphics programming books I bought during the same early career book shopping session, it was definately the most useful of the three and it's stayed with me ever since, where other books have been and gone.

It's generally very easy to read and very informative.It has a good progression of topics that introduce the reader to graphics programming concepts.

The thing I most like about this is that it covers much of the foley and van dam book, but avoids the many irrelevant sections and is a little more to the point.It's like a more concise reference to that book, which is also one that I would recommend.

The only thing I don't like about the updated version is the new layout, typeface and style.The old version just seems so much more appealing to me.

If you program game or computer graphics, then this is a reliable book to have in your collection.

No Better Book to Learn From
Contrary to what the other reviews say, I believe this is an excellent book for beginners in the 3D computer graphics world.However, that being said, you will need some basic math skills to be able to understand and apply the concepts in this book.If you are unfamilar with linear algebra, you should probably start with studying up on your math skills first.With the basic math skills, this book does a great job of introducing the basics to almost every major topic you'll see in 3D computer graphics programming.The book doesn't go into great detail at times, but the simplicity of this book is the winning ingredient that allows beginners to grasp the basics before moving on to indepth research in paticular topics of 3D graphics that interest them. ... Read more

Product Description

This book blends traditional teaching approaches with the use of mathematics, together with the use of a hardware description language and a concrete processor as vehicles for "hands-on" modelling and experimenting with digital logic and processor design. This unique approach encourages readers to derive their own conclusions via experimentation, enabling them to discover for themselves the fundamental and exciting topics of computer architecture. Features: includes a wide-ranging introductory chapter; outlines basic methods for evaluating processors; investigates advanced topics in processor design; presents a detailed description of a development tool-chain; provides a stand-alone tutorial on using SPIM; focuses on aspects of compilers which are closely tied to the processor; examines the concept of efficient programming; concludes every chapter with a set of example problems. This practical, reader-friendly textbook has been written with undergraduates in mind, and is suitable for self-study.

Product Description
Topics Covered:
The FAQ‟s of CPU‟s
The Nuts and Bolts of what‟s In Your Computer
Beam Me up Motherboard
Ten Top Job Responsibilities of the Motherboard
Got Game? Five Top PC Hardware Accessories to Boost your Performance
It‟s all in the Process: Is Bigger Necessarily Better?
The Processor Procession - Intel versus AMD Processor Technology
Gig „Em: How to Decide Which Hard Drive Is Right For You
Must Have PC Hardware for you‟re built from Scratch Computer
Size Does Matter: In Hard Drives That Is
You‟ve earned an A+-Top PC Hardware Topics in Studying for A+ Certification
Forgetful? Five Basic Rules for Memory
Popularity Contest: The Top Five Most Popular Computer Upgrades
It‟s SCSI, not Scuzzy!
Getting Graphic: Five How-to‟s in Choosing the Best Graphics Card
The Graphic Details: Three Main things to look for in a Graphics Card
Plugin Power: Three Top Warning Signs of a Failing Power Supply
Sound-off about Sound Cards: Top Three Things to Look for
... Read more

Product Description

This book constitutes the refereed proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Evolvable Systems, ICES 2007, held in Wuhan, China, in September 2007.

The 41 revised full papers presented were carefully reviewed and selected from 123 submissions. The papers are organized in topical sections on digital hardware evolution, analog hardware evolution, bio-inspired systems, mechanical hardware evolution, evolutionary design, evolutionary algorithms in hardware design, and hardware implementation of evolutionary algorithms.

Product Description
Software and Hardware Engineering: Motorola M68HC12 is the second in a series of processor-specific texts designed to stand alone or to accompany Cady's previous book, Microcontrollers and Microcomputers: Principles of Software and Hardware Engineering (OUP 98). This two-text concept provides well-written text coverage of the general principles of software and hardware design. This accompanying processor-specific volume allows professors to choose a particular microcontroller for their course/lab work. The previous text focused specifically on the Motorola M688HC11. This text provides an introduction to the architecture and design of software and hardware for the Mortorola M68HC12. Specifically, it covers the hardware features of two versions of the M68HC12 -- the M68HC12A4 and the M68HC912B32. In addition to covering and comparing features common with its M68HC11 predecessor, this text features chapter on fuzzy logic and how to program a fuzzy inference engine. A detailed appendix explains the design of software for a debugging pod. There are more than 100 extensive programming examples. This text will provide the beginning student with specific material and examples to apply the Motorola M68HC12 microcontroller in real-world applications. It is written so that a student or engineer familiar with the Motorla M68HC11 will be easily assimilate the differences between it and the M68HC12. It is suitable for undergraduate students in electrical engineering or technology programs in electrical and computer technology.

This text can be used with its companion volume, Microcontrollers and Microcomputers: Principles of Software and Hardware Engineering, or with any other book that examines the general principles of microcomputer technology. It can stand by itself in a course devoted to the M68HC12. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Not much more than the Documentaion Rehashed.
You can get this book used for 3.00, because that is about what it is worth.

While the authors seem to understand hardware, I seriously question that there is much in software of value here.

You will pay a lot more for:
"The HCS12/9S12: An Introduction to Hardware and Software Interfacing"
But it is worth every penny.

Foundation for Programmble Hardware
This book is used for the classic junior level microprocessor class at Montana State University - Bozeman (where Cady teaches) and is the starting point for modern digital design. After an "Intro to Logic Circuits" class this book then gives the essential foundation to build upon with more advanced design classes. The microcontroller book (also by Cady) comes after this one.

Highly Recommended - Very Valuable
This book, and potential customers, have been done a great disservice if they've been misled by previous customer reviews. While not for beginners, that fact does not take away from the value of this book to others. And it is far more than just data sheets. Anyone who's tried to learn a new microprocessor strictly from data sheets will certainly recognize the value of this book. It does not replace the data sheets; it supplements them. It straddles well the region between primers and reference material.

The intended audience for this book is college Engineering students, or people already familiar with microprocessors. A highly motivated beginner could use this book as well, but they would probably need access to someone with experience to answer questions when they get stuck. (For a more beginner's book see Fredrick Cady's "Microcontrollers and Microcomputers - Principles of Software and Hardware Engineering".) Familiarity with the HC11 could be helpful, but it's not required. I have never worked with the HC11, and I found that of little consequence.

The HC12 is an amazing microcontroller. But gleaning and understanding the necessary material from the 400 pages of Motorola data sheets isn't easy. The authors, one of whom helped design the HC12, have already done that for you. Several very useful, but complex peripherals have been integrated into this line of microcontrollers, in addition to tons of parallel I/O. But what initially attracted me to this chip were the native Fuzzy Logic instructions. The authors do an excellent job of detailing an "example" Fuzzy Logic application, and the basics of Fuzzy Logic. It's worth the read for no other reason than that.

Modern microprocessors and microcontrollers have become very complex. Learning a new one without the help of a colleague, strictly from the data sheets is a monumental task. This book can fill that gap well. My one criticism is its age. Published only in 2000, it is already out of date regarding some of the newer versions of the HC12. The A4 and B32 are covered in this book, and while the B32 is still a workhorse suitable for many applications, some of the newer chips include many additional features and peripherals. A new edition that dealt with those would be useful.

If you're interested in learning the HC12 and/or Fuzzy Logic, I highly recommend this book.

This book is terrible
This book is in no way for beginners. This book talks about Assembly language for the HC 12 without detailed explanation of the code. If you do not understand assembly language you are lost with this book. However the book is a good reference once you understand the basics. A good book for beginners with some level of C programing knowledge is Embedded Microcontrollers by Tood Morton. it explains the assembly code in comparison to C/C++ code.

A copy
It's a kind of a copy of M68HC12 data sheets. ... Read more

Product Description
This book is a ready reference of troubleshooting, diagnostics, and repair processes and procedures for a range of commonly used personal computers and peripheral devices. Written in the popular Black Book format with a hardware focus. Unlike other PC troubleshooting books, you don't have to read through pages of text to find a solution. This book cuts out the unnecessary background reference material and filler to bring you clear, concise, and necessary reference information followed by problem solving solutions in an easy-to-use format. Each unit within the book contains: a common customer complaint, symptoms common to the problem, tools needed (hand, hardware, or software), step-by-step processes used to verify the problem, and the step-by-step processes used to correct the problem. Also includes numerous illustrated photos to help you repair something quickly. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Very Good, a nice refresher
After taking Cisco CCNA 1 and gaining a summer job at a school district, I have found this book very helpful. Though the information is taught in CCNA and A+ classes is the same, this book is a nice refresher and good step by step problem solving guide nevertheless.

Welllooks like we got burned
I BOUGHT THIS BOOK THINKING I WAS GOING TO BE ENLIGHTED WITH SOME ADVANCED TROUBLESHOOTING KNOWLEDGE. I AM A PC TECH AND THIS BOOK JUST GOES INTO DETAILABOUT ALL THE COMPONENTS THAT MAKE UP THE SYSTEM AND THEIR HISTORY.IF YOU ARE A+ CERTIFIED YOU ALREADY LEARNED ALL THIS INFORMATION AND YOU`LL JUST LOOSE INTEREST RIGHT FROM THE START BECAUSE THE WRITER IS JUST REHASHING ALL THIS SAME INFO.THIS BOOK IS 713 PAGES AND THE LITTLE BIT OF TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION IN THE BOOK WOULD FILL NO MORE THAN FIFTY PAGES,JUST A LOT FLUFF SO THEY CAN MAKE THE BOOK AS THICK AS THEY CAN.THIS BOOK MIGHT ACTUALLY BE SOME GOOD FOR A PERSON WHO MAYBE IS JUST STARTING OUT,AND WANTS TO LEARNED EVERYTHING FROM THE BEGINING AND GETTING READY TO LEARN A+.IF YOU ARE ALREADY A TECHNICIAN YOU`LL JUST GET BURNED.ALOT OF AUTHORS SEEM TO BE TRYING TO MAKE A QUICK BUCK WHENEVER POSSIBLE.
"PC TECHNICIAN BLACKBOOK" THERE ARE NO SECRETS HIDDEN IN THIS BOOK GUY`S.

Great Book with Great Tips
There are many things in this book of interest to either the beginner or the experienced technician. I found the background information to be informative without going way into the history and technical details of legacy gear. It had just enough of the past to make the present meaningful. The troubleshooting tips included many things I would not have thought to even ask and cleared up some things I was confused about. I recommend this to anyone wanting to know more about their computer and how to keep it running.

Not worth the money
The cover says "Ideal for A+ certified technicians," which I am not, but I could imagine they'd be even more frustrated with this book that I am.

I bought this book after acquiring a large collection of older PC parts.I thought it would be handy to have a troubleshooting reference nearby while working with the parts.I've had this book a number of months now, built 2 fully operational computers from scratch, and have not found this book helpful ONCE.I'd recommend saving your money and buying another book or searching Google Groups for your answers.

Just to be fair, there is a lot of interesting information about how certain technologies evolved and is fairly comprehensive.(Such as full page pictures of what midtower cases and toolless screws look like.)But when it comes to troubleshooting issues while working on a computer, it's just about worthless.(Plot spoiler: just about all the "Immediate Solutions" sections tell you to check the cables, or something that obvious.)

I'll admit I'm a software technician by trade and enjoy fiddling with stuff.This book may very well be good for the novice or intermediate user.But if you've built computers before or know your way around troubleshooting an issue, look elsewhere for a hardware reference.

THE book for technical assistance
This book is as up to date as possible considering the fast changing technology and publishing times.It is a huge book and covers everything. It has answered a hundred questions I didn't even know to ask. The detail with which it answers these questions is wonderful. I only hope the author will see fit to give us a yearly update supplement. ... Read more

Product Description
Visual learners will find clear, step-by-step screen shots that show how to tackle more than 150 tasks related to using a laptop. Each task-based spread includes easy, visual directions for such operations as comparing different laptop models, using the keyboard and touchpad, connecting to a wireless network, adding PC cards and input devices, securing an Internet connection, setting up a low-battery alarm , and more. Helpful sidebars offer practical tips and tricks, while full-color screen shots demonstrate each task. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Teach yourself Visually
As I am new to laptops I find the book an excellent resource and very helpful for finding a lost file.

A picture is worth a thousand words.
I love to read, but not an instruction book or manual, that's the main reason I like this book.I have several visual series, which I like and use, so I knew this one would be perfect for me. Actually, I have used this book for my laptop and my desk computer. Nice presentation of visual instruction. I'm anxious to do more with my computers, using this book.Thanks for suggesting this Visual Book to me. I will recommend it to others. ... Read more

Product Description
Computer Applications for the New Millennium introduces word processing, Internet, desktop publishing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation concepts through sequential practice material.The book is non-software specific so its exercises can be used on basic to intermediate level courses and it can be used with any software or computer. ... Read more

Product Description
Tools for Teaching Computer Networking and Hardware Concepts makes the teaching and learning of computer networking and hardware a more active process by using interactive learning to add life to a very technical subject. Fundamental theoretical concepts are illustrated with the use of interactive practical exercises. Each chapter presents learning objectives, figures and illustrations, real-world examples and review questions.Tools for Teaching Computer Networking and Hardware Concepts has a worldwide focus provided by contributors from across the globe. These contributors share their use of online tools and flexible learning practices. Both teachers and students will find this book a useful resource for teaching and learning computer networking and hardware concepts. ... Read more