Information

Understanding Microcomputers aims to help the reader to do just that. It is written for the uninitiated microcomputer user who wants to use a microcomputer in business or perhaps to buy one but does not understand what the world of microcomputers is all about. This book explains in simple language and step-by-step what a microcomputer system consists of and the component relationships. It then moves on to describe just how computer data is organized for a business, including what hardware and peripherals are required. All the basic details about software are clearly explained: programming, operating systems, languages and applications.

1. How microcomputers work
2. Business data organization
3. Choosing peripherals - disks, monitors and printers
4. Role of software
5. Operating Systems, Languages and Compilers
6. Choosing software

About The Authors

Dennis Longley and Michael Shain are the authors of Dictionary of Information Technology, The Microcomputer Users' Handbook and Expanding and Networking Microcomputers, all published by Macmillan Press.

Dennis Longley is the head of the Department of Computing and Cybernetics at Brighton Polytechnic. Having previously worked in industry, he has published numerous reports and papers on aspects of computer control and has served on various national committees. He was formerly chairman of the CNAA (Council for National Academic Awards) Computing and Informatics Board and vice-chairman of the CNAA Committee for Science and Technology.

Michael Shain is a consultant on corporate data communications and an advisor to the National Computing Centre on software distribution. He previously controlled software licensing at British Telecom, where he also designed national communications networks.

First Sentence

The contents of this book are derived from the Understanding Microcomputers section of the Microcomputer Users Handbook by Longley and Shain.