From the Publisher
This book contains over 300 questions and answers on various important aspects of computers. Topics include both basic and state-of-the-art concepts from digital logic to the design of a complete microcomputer. This book is written to present a clear understanding of the principles and basic tools required to design typical digital systems such as microcomputers. The book will serve as a detailed study guide to find quick answers to questions associated with topics such as digital logic, computer architecture/organization, and microprocessor-based system design. The author strongly believes that working professionals and graduating seniors in electrical/computer engineering and computer science will find this book very useful while preparing for job interviews. The book is written based upon the author’s academic background and many years of industrial experience in computers.
It is the author’s opinion that professionals and students in computers will be able to build successful careers after a clear understanding of the materials presented in this book. It will also provide them with a strong background in electrical/computer engineering and computer science. The book is written based upon the author’s previous book entitled “Fundamentals of Digital Logic and Microcomputer Design” ( Third edition, ISBN # 0966-4980-3-8) published by Rafi Systems, Inc. in 2000. Therefore, details of the answers to the questions can be found in that book. The materials included in this book are divided into seven chapters as follows:
* Chapter 1 presents Q and A’s on basic terminologies, fundamental concepts of digital integrated circuits using transistors and a comparison of LSTTL, HC, and HCT IC characteristics.
* Chapter 2 contains Q and A’s on digital logic design. An introduction to VHDL and Verilog is also included.
* Chapter 3 covers Q and A’s on CPU design. A comparison of RISC vs. CISC is provided.
* Chapter 4 contains Q and A’s on memory and I/O. Basics of memory array design, flash, SDRAM, cache, and also, I/O techniques associated with microprocessors are included.
* Chapter 5 covers Q and A’s on microcomputer hardware and software. Topics include typical microprocessor architectures, clock and reset circuits, programming languages, and instruction set design.
* Chapters 6 and 7 contain Q and A’s on Intel and Motorola microprocessors respectively. Intel 8086 and Motorola 68000 are covered in details. The features of these microprocessors are then compared with 32-bit microprocessors from each of these manufacturers.
The author wishes to express his sincere appreciation to Dr. W. C. Miller of the University of Windsor, Canada, for his inspiration and support throughout the writing effort. Dr. M. Rafiquzzaman, Pomona, California
About the Author
M. Rafiquzzaman obtained his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering in Canada in 1974. He worked for Esso/Exxon and Bell Northern Research for approximately 5 years. Dr. Rafiquzzaman is presently a professor of electrical and computer engineering at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. He was Chair of the department there from 1984 to 1985. Dr. Rafiquzzaman was also an adjunct professor of electrical engineering systems at University of Southern California, Los Angeles. He consulted for ARCO, Rockwell, Los Angeles County, and Ralph M. Parsons Corporation in the areas of computer applications. He has published eight books on computers, which have been translated into Russian, Chinese, and Spanish. He authored his other books with Prentice-Hall, John Wiley, CRC Press, Harper & Row, and West/PWS. Dr. Rafiquzzaman is the founder of Rafi Systems, Inc., California a manufacturer of biomedical devices including intraocular (cataract implant) lenses using state-of-the-art CNC machines, and also a computer systems consulting firm, and a publisher. In 1984, he managed the Olympic Swimming, Diving and Synchronized Swimming events in Los Angeles as chairman of the Contingency commission. He was also involved in managing the technical aspects of the Swiss timing, score keeping, and computer systems. From 1984 to 1989, he was the instructor for Motorola in Southern California teaching short courses on Motorola 16-bit and 32-bit microprocessors for local industries, including Hughes Aircraft, Lockheed, Northrop, TRW, Ford Aerospace, General Dynamics, McDonnell Douglas and Rockwell. Dr. Rafiquzzaman was involved as a consultant in managing microprocessor-based Airport Remote Maintenance system for FAA (Federal Aviation Administration), Washington, D.C. Dr. Rafiquzzaman was an advisor (State Minister) to the President of Bangladesh on computers from 1988 to 1990. He is currently involved in research activities in both hardware and software aspects of typical 16-bit, 32-bit, and 64-bit microprocessor-based applications.
