Ones and Zeros: Understanding Boolean Algebra, Digital Circuits, and the Logic of Sets (IEEE Press Understanding Science & Technology Series) [Paperback]

John R. Gregg (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0780334264 | ISBN-13: 978-0780334267 | Publication Date: March 16, 1998 | Edition: 1

This book explains, in lay terms, the surprisingly simple system of mathematical logic used in digital computer circuitry. Anecdotal in its style and often funny, it follows the development of this logic system from its origins in Victorian England to its rediscovery in this century as the foundation of all modern computing machinery. ONES AND ZEROS will be enjoyed by anyone who has a general interest in science and technology.

Editorial Reviews

From the Back Cover

Mathematics Ones and Zeros Understanding Boolean Algebra, Digital Circuits, and the Logic of Sets Ones and Zeros explains, in lay terms, Boolean algebra, the suprisingly simple system of mathematical logic used in digital computer circuitry. Anecdotal in style and often funny, Ones and Zeros follows the development of this logic system from its origins in Victorian England to its rediscovery in this century as the foundation of all modern computing machinery. Readers will learn about the interesting history of the development of symbolic logic in particular, and the often misunderstood process of mathematical invention and scientific discovery, in general. Ones and Zeros also features practical exercises with answers, real-world examples of digital circuit design, and a reading list. This fascinating look at the crucial technology of the twentieth century will be enjoyed by anyone who has a general interest in science, technology, and mathematics. Ones and Zeros will be of particular interest to software engineers who want to gain a comprehensive understanding of computer hardware. Outstanding features include:

• A history of mathematical logic
• An explanation of the logic of digital circuits
• Hands-on exercises and examples

About the IEEE Press Understanding Science & Technology Series The IEEE Press Understanding Science & Technology Series treats important topics in science and technology in a simple and easy to understand manner. Designed expressly for the nonspecialist engineer, scientist, or technician, as well as the technologically curious, each volume stresses practical information over mathematical theorems and complicated derivations.

Product Details

• Paperback: 296 pages
• Publisher: Wiley-IEEE Press; 1 edition (March 16, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0780334264
• ISBN-13: 978-0780334267
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6.1 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.1 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,262,670 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Great numbers primer!, February 15, 1999

By 

Don W. Franke (San Antonio) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Ones and Zeros: Understanding Boolean Algebra, Digital Circuits, and the Logic of Sets (IEEE Press Understanding Science & Technology Series) (Paperback)

I purchased the book to get a full understanding of boolean algebra, and this fit the bill to a T. If you are dealing even lightly with x-bit integers or x-base numbering systems (i.e. 32-bit integers, Hex numbers, etc.) this is the book to get. A great primer for anyone who wants to *understand* numbers, rather than just coexist with them.

One caveat though...the exercises don't always match the answers in the back of the book, which proves frustrating.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars THE book on ones and zeros, October 24, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Ones and Zeros: Understanding Boolean Algebra, Digital Circuits, and the Logic of Sets (IEEE Press Understanding Science & Technology Series) (Paperback)

If you are looking for a complete understanding of boolean algebra, this book will definitely statisfy your needs. It provides several interesting examples with each chapter to keep your mind working. Great way to start out learning about boolean logic.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great books for boolean algebra, December 29, 2002

By A Customer

This review is from: Ones and Zeros: Understanding Boolean Algebra, Digital Circuits, and the Logic of Sets (IEEE Press Understanding Science & Technology Series) (Paperback)

Incredible book for understanding boolean algebra. What I like about the book is the simple and clear language that the author uses and a lot of very helpful examples throughout the book to help understand the concept.