Marilyn Wolf, director of the School of Computing and Elmer E. Koch Professor of Engineering, has just published the fifth edition of her textbook, "Computers as Components." The first edition was published in 2000 and it was quickly identified as one of the first textbooks on embedded computing.
An embedded computer is part of a larger physical device, giving rise to the trains-planes-and-automobiles theme of recent covers. Embedded computers are also used in medicine, finance, and critical infrastructure. The book describes the unique aspects of embedded computing: real-time computing and low-power software. The book discusses basic principles and applies them to practical examples.
"The fifth edition has been in the works for several years and I am glad to be able to hold it in my hand," Wolf said. "The content has evolved but the basic themes have proven to be resilient. These days, many students know the content through my Embedded Systems Channel on YouTube, but I'm still a believer in the power of the printed page."