Principles of Computer Science

Provides students and researchers with an easy-to-understand introduction to the fundamentals of computer science.

This book introduces the fundamentals of computer science using easy-to-understand language for a solid start and deeper understanding and appreciation of this complex subject. It covers related fields of study to illustrate the connections between the various branches of computer science including computer engineering, software engineering, biotechnology, security, robotics, gaming, and programming languages.

The 117 entries range from 3D printing to Workplace Monitoring and are arranged in an A to Z order, making it easy to find the topic of interest. Entries include the following:

• Related fields of study to illustrate the connections between the various branches of computer science including computer engineering, software engineering, biotechnology, security, robotics, gaming, and programming languages;

• A brief, concrete summary of the topic and how the entry is organized;

• Principal terms that are fundamental to the discussion and to understanding the concepts presented;

• Illustrations that clarify difficult concepts via models, diagrams, and charts of such key topics as wide area networks (WAN), electronic circuits, and quantum computing;

• Photographs of significant contributors to the field of computer science;

• Sample problems that further demonstrate the concept presented;

• Further reading lists that relate to the entry.

This reference work begins with a comprehensive introduction to the field, written by editor Donald R. Franceschetti, PhD, starting with the development of the first computers, an explanation of analog versus digital computing, neural networks, the contributions of Alan Turing, and a discussion of how advances from vacuum tubes to digital processors have fundamentally changed the way we live.