The evolution of computer A history of technology and commerce

The first thorough examination of the topic written from both a technical and a business standpoint is The Story of the Computer. It sets out to describe the complicated evolutionary process that has resulted in the formation of today's computers, selecting out those inventions and discoveries have contributed most to the pool of knowledge through their influence onfurther developments and taking into account both the commercial imperatives and the specific technical innovations. It also highlights the breakthroughs in science and technology, or "building blocks," that have made developments possible and given a more complete picture.
Beginning with humanity's earliest attempts to automate calculation, the book is organized into four sections: mechanical, electromechanical, electronic, and finally, mechanical. The transition from stored-program computers to sequence-controlled calculators and the beginning of the computer industry are also covered in part two. In the third section, we observe how the market is developing and how the introduction of solid-state components has facilitated the emergence of new market segments for faster or smaller computers. The conclusion updates the narrative with the emergence of mass-produced personal computers, computer graphics and the World Wide Web.
Written in a very accessible format with pictures throughout, The Story of the Computer should provide a delightful read for both the specialist and the general reader.