Ones and Zeros

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.

Before We Begin. Number Systems and Counting. The Basic Functions of Boolean Algebra: And, Or, And Not. Combinational Logic. The Algebra of Sets and Venn Diagrams. Other Boolean Functions. Realizing Any Boolean Function with And, Or, And Not. More Digital Circuits. Laws of Boolean Algebra. Boolean Logic. Appendix A: Counting in Base 2. Appendix B: Powers of 2. Appendix C: Summary of Boolean Functions. Further Reading. Answers to Exercises. Index. About the Author.