Introduction to Computing: Explorations in Language, Logic, and Machines

In the past hundred years, computer science has changed the world more than any other field. Without computer science, humans would not have walked on the Moon, modern medicine would not exist, and Wal-Mart would be a small store in Arkansas. But this book is not just about the pragmatic impact of computer science; it is about how computer science changes the way we think and how we solve problems.

This book is a survey introduction to the most important ideas in computing. It focuses on how to describe information processes by defining procedures, how to analyze the costs required to carry out a procedure, and the fundamental limits of what can and cannot be computed mechanically.

Computer science is the study of information processes. Computer scientists study how to describe, predict properties of, and efficiently implement information processes. When confronted with a problem, computer scientists do not just attempt to solve it. Instead, they think about a problem as a mapping between its inputs and desired outputs, develop a systematic sequence of steps for solving the problem for any possible input, and consider how the number of steps required to solve the problem scales as the input size increases. Thinking about problems this way has practical value since it leads to programs computers can execute to solve problems remarkably quickly, but also impacts the way we think about defining and solving problems regardless of whether or not a computer is involved.

Title: Introduction to Computing: Explorations in Language, Logic, and Machines
Authors David Evans
Publisher: CreateSpace (August 15, 2011); Lulu.com (August 19, 2009)
Paperback: 298 pages
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1463687478
ISBN-13: 978-1463687472
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Feedback Systems: An Introduction for Scientists and Engineers

This book provides an introduction to the mathematics needed to model, analyze, and design feedback systems. It is an ideal textbook for undergraduate and graduate students, and is indispensable for researchers seeking a self-contained reference on control theory. Unlike most books on the subject, Feedback Systems develops transfer functions through the exponential response of a system, and is accessible across a range of disciplines that utilize feedback in physical, biological, information, and economic systems.

Karl Åström and Richard Murray use techniques from physics, computer science, and operations research to introduce control-oriented modeling. They begin with state space tools for analysis and design, including stability of solutions, Lyapunov functions, reachability, state feedback observability, and estimators. The matrix exponential plays a central role in the analysis of linear control systems, allowing a concise development of many of the key concepts for this class of models. Åström and Murray then develop and explain tools in the frequency domain, including transfer functions, Nyquist analysis, PID control, frequency domain design, and robustness. They provide exercises at the end of every chapter, and an accompanying electronic solutions manual is available. Feedback Systems is a complete one-volume resource for students and researchers in mathematics, engineering, and the sciences.

    Covers the mathematics needed to model, analyze, and design feedback systems
    Serves as an introductory textbook for students and a self-contained resource for researchers
    Includes exercises at the end of every chapter
    Features an electronic solutions manual
    Offers techniques applicable across a range of disciplines

Title Feedback Systems: An Introduction for Scientists and Engineers
Authors Karl Johan Astrom, Richard M. Murray
Publisher: Princeton University Press; illustrated edition edition (April 1, 2008)
Paperback: 424 pages
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0691135762
ISBN-13: 978-0691135762
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