Computer Science Illuminated

This book provides a broad and thorough exploration of computer systems within a computer science context. Although this is classified as a CS-0 book, we realize that the term CS-0 means different things to different people. Independently, both of us have written successful textbooks on various topics, but this book represents our first opportunity for such a comprehensive exploration of computing. Were thrilled to join forces to offer this book. This book is designed as a breadth-first introduction to the field of computer science, providing a comprehensive and rigorous exploration of a variety of topics. It provides a general understanding of computers in all their aspects, and it lays a solid foundation to support further study. Therefore, this book is appropriate both for computer science majors beginning their studies and for non-majors seeking a broad but complete overview. Content: Laying the groundwork: Big picture -- Information layer: Binary values and number systems Data representation -- Hardware layer: Gates and circuits Computing components -- Programming layer: Problem solving and program design Low-level programming languages High-level programming languages Abstract data types and algorithms -- Operating systems layer: Operating systems File systems and directories -- Applications layer: Information systems: Artificial intelligence Simulation and other applications -- Communications layer: Networks World Wide Web -- In colusion: Limitations of computing -- Answers to selected exercises -- Glossary. Revised and updated, the Second Edition of Explorations in Computer Science provides introductory computer science students with a hands-on learning experience. Designed to expose students to a variety of subject areas, this laboratory manual offers challenging exercises in problem solving and experimentation. Designed to present a breadth first coverage of the field of Computer Science