Not since the 1980s has computer architecture been so exciting! This book captures the moment
mining the history of computing to teach key concepts in modern hardware design and introduce
the neural and quantum architectures of the future. Computer Architecture is an in-depth
exploration of the principles and designs that have shaped computer hardware through the ages
from counting devices like the abacus to Babbage’s Difference Engine to modern GPUs and the
frontiers of quantum computing. This engaging blend of history theory hands-on exercises
and real-world examples is sure to make for an insightful romp through a fast-changing world.
You won’t just read about computer architecture you’ll also gain the understanding to touch
build and program it. You’ll explore the basic structures of a CPU by learning to program a
Victorian Analytical Engine. You’ll extend electronic machines to 8-bit and 16-bit retro gaming
computers learning to program a Commodore 64 and an Amiga. You’ll delve into x86 and RISC-V
architectures cloud and supercomputers and ideas for future technologies. You’ll also
learn: • How to represent data with different coding schemes and build digital logic gates •
The basics of machine and assembly language programming • How pipelining out-of-order
execution and parallelism work in context • The power and promise of neural networks DNA
photonics and quantum computing Whether you’re a student a professional or simply a tech
enthusiast after reading this book you’ll grasp the milestones of computer architecture and
be able to engage directly with the technology that defines today’s world. Prepare to be
inspired challenged and above all see and experience the digital world hands-on.
