Code: The Hidden Language of Computer Hardware and Software

by Charles Petzold
Code: The Hidden Language of Computer Hardware and Software cover
Good Books rating 3.94
Science and Innovation
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Paperback • £28.99
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Format • £27.54
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Technical
  • ID: 4705
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9780735638723
  • Publisher: Microsoft Press
  • Published: 2000-10-11
  • Formats: 6
  • Reviews: 4

CODE by Charles Petzold takes readers on a journey through the fascinating world of communication and technology, revealing how everyday objects and familiar language systems like Braille and Morse code are intricately linked to the inner workings of computers. Through clever illustrations and accessible language, Petzold demystifies the technological innovations of the past two centuries, making the complex world of PCs, digital media, and the internet comprehensible and engaging for all readers. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a curious beginner, CODE offers a unique perspective on how our human compulsion to communicate has driven technological advancements. Petzold's narrative not only educates but also inspires, potentially awakening the technophile within anyone who picks up this book.

Reviews
Bryukh · 2023-12-28
challenging 3.00

The book is noted for its challenging difficulty curve, which can be both engaging and frustrating. Despite this, it is praised for its comprehensive coverage of computer hardware.

The reviewer points out that the book's difficulty curve can be a bit of a rollercoaster, swinging from basic concepts to more challenging topics. This can make the book both engaging and frustrating at times. However, they appreciate the book's comprehensive coverage of computer hardware and its ability to explain complex concepts in a detailed manner. The reviewer also notes that the book's historical context and biographies of computing pioneers add depth to the reading experience. Overall, they find the book to be a valuable resource for anyone interested in computer hardware.

Quick quotes

    One aspect, though, felt confusing – the 'difficulty curve' of the book. It's like a rollercoaster, swinging from basic to 'wow, this is tough.'

    It's like a rollercoaster, swinging from basic to 'wow, this is tough.'

    The book's historical context and biographies of computing pioneers add depth to the reading experience.

Reddit - Recommended Books · 2020-11-29
good 3.50

The book is praised for its ability to elevate the reader's understanding of computers, especially for those working on system software. It is considered a good read that might change one's perspective.

This review highlights the book's effectiveness in explaining complex computer concepts in an accessible way. It's particularly useful for those involved in system software, as it can significantly enhance their understanding of how computers work. The reviewer appreciates the book's engaging narrative and its ability to make the inner workings of computers more comprehensible. They also mention that while it might not change everyone's life, it's a worthwhile read that offers valuable insights.

Quick quotes

    It won’t change your life, but it’s a good read.

    Your understanding of computers would be up to new level after reading it.

    It was suggested to me that I read 'Code' by Charles Petzold.

Atomic Spin · 2011-11-05
informative 4.50

The book uniquely blends lessons in logic, electronics, and math with historical narratives, offering a deep yet relaxed exploration of coding. It's praised for its engaging and informative approach, making complex topics accessible.

This book stands out by weaving together technical concepts with historical context, creating a engaging and informative read. The reviewer appreciates how it simplifies complex topics, making them accessible to a broader audience. They highlight the book's ability to make technical subjects enjoyable and understandable, even for those without a background in computing. The narrative style is particularly commended for its depth and clarity, ensuring that readers can follow along without feeling overwhelmed.

Quick quotes

    Code is a unique book that mixes lessons in logic, electronics, and math with history and narrative in a deep but relaxed exploration of ...

    It's praised for its engaging and informative approach, making complex topics accessible.

    The narrative style is particularly commended for its depth and clarity.

Dont Panic Labs · 2011-08-18
superb 4.75

The book is praised for its superb recount of the evolution of computers, explaining each step's development and functionality. It's highly recommended for its clarity and depth.

This review highlights the book's excellent explanation of computer evolution, making it a superb read for understanding how and why each technological step was developed. The reviewer appreciates the book's clarity and depth, noting that it provides a comprehensive understanding of how computers work. They recommend it highly for anyone interested in the technical aspects of computing, as it offers a detailed and engaging exploration of the subject. The book's ability to make complex information accessible is particularly noted, making it a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced readers.

Quick quotes

    Code is a superb recount of the evolution of computers that explains why each step was developed, how it works and how it came to ...

    It's highly recommended for its clarity and depth.

    The book's ability to make complex information accessible is particularly noted.

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