So, it won’t surprise you to know that I am quite interested in how computers work – and picked up this book thinking that I’d already know quite a lot of it. Reference:Â Petzold, C., 2000,Â Code: The Hidden Language of Computer Hardware and Software, Microsoft Press, 395pp Amazon LinkĪs you’ll probably know if you’ve read many articles on this site: I’m a computer programmer and general ‘geek’. What’s more, it’s a great read too! If you ever wondered how a computer worked then buy this and read it – even if you think you already know (unless you’re, you know, a chip designer at Intel or something!) Summary:Â This book takes you all the way from Morse Code to a fully working computer, explainingÂ everythingÂ along the way. Along with new chapters, Petzold created a new website,, that uses animated interactive graphics to make computers even easier to comprehend.įrom the simple ticking of clocks to the worldwide hum of the internet, Code reveals the essence of the digital revolution.Robin's Blog Review: Code – The Hidden Language of Computer Hardware and Software by Charles Petzold December 29, 2012 This new expanded edition explores more deeply the bit-by-bit, gate-by-gate construction of the heart of every smart device ― the central processing unit that combines the simplest of basic operations to perform the most complex of feats. You'll discover what flashlights, black cats, seesaws, and the ride of Paul Revere can teach you about computing - and how human ingenuity and our compulsion to communicate have shaped every electronic device we use.

Cleverly illustrated and easy to understand, this is the book that cracks the mystery. Have you ever wondered what goes on inside these devices to make our lives easier but occasionally more infuriating?įor more than 20 years, readers have delighted in Charles Petzold's illuminating story of the secret inner life of computers, and now he has revised it for this new age of computing. “The classic guide to how computers work, updated with new chapters and interactive graphicsĬomputers are everywhere - most obviously in our laptops and smartphones, but also our cars, televisions, microwave ovens, alarm clocks, robot vacuum cleaners, and other smart appliances.

Code charles petzold second edition