Inside the Machine (An Illustrated Introduction to Microprocessors and Computer Architecture)

Computers perform countless tasks ranging from the business critical to the recreational, but regardless of how differently they may look and behave, they're all amazingly similar in basic function. Once you understand how the microprocessor—or central processing unit (CPU)—works, you'll have a firm grasp of the fundamental concepts at the heart of all modern computing.

Inside the Machine, from the co-founder of the highly respected Ars Technica website, explains how microprocessors operate—what they do and how they do it. The book uses analogies, full-color diagrams, and clear language to convey the ideas that form the basis of modern computing. After discussing computers in the abstract, the book examines specific microprocessors from Intel, IBM, and Motorola, from the original models up through today's leading processors. It contains the most comprehensive and up-to-date information available (online or in print) on Intel’s latest processors: the Pentium M, Core, and Core 2 Duo. Inside the Machine also explains technology terms and concepts that readers often hear but may not fully understand, such as "pipelining," "L1 cache," "main memory," "superscalar processing," and "out-of-order execution."

Includes discussion of:
–Parts of the computer and microprocessor
–Programming fundamentals (arithmetic instructions, memory accesses, control flow instructions, and data types)
–Intermediate and advanced microprocessor concepts (branch prediction and speculative execution)
–Intermediate and advanced computing concepts (instruction set architectures, RISC and CISC, the memory hierarchy, and encoding and decoding machine language instructions)
–64-bit computing vs. 32-bit computing
–Caching and performance

Inside the Machine is perfect for students of science and engineering, IT and business professionals, and the growing community of hardware tinkerers who like to dig into the guts of their machines.

This book title, Inside the Machine (An Illustrated Introduction to Microprocessors and Computer Architecture), ISBN: 9781593276683, by Jon Stokes, published by No Starch Press (December 1, 2006) is available in paperback. Our minimum order quantity is 25 copies. All standard bulk book orders ship FREE in the continental USA and delivered in 4-10 business days.

Unlike Amazon and other retailers who may also offer Inside the Machine (An Illustrated Introduction to Microprocessors and Computer Architecture) books on their website, we specialize in large quantities and provide personal service, from trusted, experienced, friendly people in Portland, Oregon. We offer a Price Match Guarantee, and QuickQuote form, to make purchasing quick and easy.

Prefer to work with a human being when you order Inside the Machine (An Illustrated Introduction to Microprocessors and Computer Architecture) books in bulk? Our Book Specialists are standing by Monday-Friday 8-5 PST, ready to help!