This book is based on the authors’ lecture notes from a course they taught for many years on digital logic and microprocessors. It is organized as a textbook. Each chapter starts with instructional objectives and a set of self-evaluation questions, and ends with a summary, a glossary, and a set of problems.

The first eight chapters are dedicated to digital logic. This part deals with number systems, binary arithmetic, logic gates, the basics of logic design, flip-flops and other logic elements (including counters, shift registers, and multiplexers), and data transmission. Chapter 9 introduces the reader to the basics of computer organization. The next five chapters deal with the architecture, programming, and hardware of microprocessors; this material is developed using the 8080A/8085 microprocessors as a vehicle. Chapter 15 provides an overview of other microprocessors, while the last chapter covers troubleshooting techniques.

Many examples are developed throughout the book, including practical ones using real devices as well as programming application examples. The book includes copies of data sheets for selected devices and an appendix with digital laboratory exercises for the 7400 logic family. Answers to selected problems are provided at the end of the book. The authors have succeeded in producing a text that is easy to follow and helps the student, through the proper blending of examples and illustrations, to assimilate the material more easily.

The book contains some statements of questionable validity. In the preface, for example, the authors state that the 8080A enjoys widespread use. At the end of chapter 8, the 8080A is referred to as a very powerful microprocessor. There is also a statement that floppy disk drives do not use DMA and are totally controlled by the computer, which certainly is not always the case. Finally, the book could include some references and discuss some newer memory devices in place of the very old 1K×1 chip. Such dated information, however, does not compromise the quality of an otherwise good text.

On the whole, I found the book easy to read and the presentation of the material very educational, practical, and interesting. No prior knowledge of switching logic or computers is necessary. The book can serve very well as a text for an introductory course in logic circuits or microprocessors. I also found the book suitable for self-study.