Computer Organization, Design, and Architecture : Book Review

"Computer Organization, Design, and Architecture" written by Sajjan G. Shiva is a comprehensive and well-structured book that delves into the fundamental concepts of computer organization and architecture. The author provides a thorough exploration of topics such as digital logic design, instruction set architecture, memory systems, and input/output devices.

One of the strengths of this book is its clear and concise explanations. Shiva's writing style is straightforward and accessible, making it easy for readers to grasp complex topics. He effectively uses diagrams and examples to illustrate and reinforce key concepts, enhancing understanding and retention of the material.

What sets this book apart is its practical approach. Shiva not only explains the theoretical principles but also emphasizes their real-world applications. This is particularly beneficial for students and professionals seeking a comprehensive understanding of computer organization and architecture for practical implementation.

Furthermore, the book covers a wide range of topics, providing readers with a holistic view of computer organization and architecture. Whether you are interested in digital logic design, CPU design, or memory systems, this book offers in-depth coverage of all these areas and more. The breadth of coverage makes it a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced practitioners.

In addition to its informative content, the book includes numerous exercises and practice problems. These exercises serve as valuable learning tools and provide opportunities for readers to apply their knowledge and test their understanding. By actively engaging with the material, readers can further enhance their comprehension and reinforce their learning.

What are readers saying?

The book "Computer Organization, Design, and Architecture" by Sajjan G. Shiva has garnered a range of opinions from readers. Some readers praised the book for its comprehensive coverage of computer organization and architecture topics. They found the explanations to be clear and appreciated the author's attention to detail. These readers felt that the book successfully bridged the gap between theory and practice, providing a solid foundation in computer science. The inclusion of numerous examples and exercises also aided in reinforcing their understanding of the subject matter.

On the other hand, there were readers who expressed dissatisfaction with the book's content. They felt that it was outdated and did not encompass modern computer architecture. The lack of discussions on emerging technologies and contemporary design principles was seen as a drawback by these readers. Additionally, some criticized the writing style for being excessively technical, making it challenging to grasp the concepts. It was suggested that a more accessible and reader-friendly approach would benefit the book.

Some readers took issue with the organization of the book, claiming that the chapters were not logically arranged, which hindered the flow of information. They proposed that reordering the content or providing clearer section divisions would enhance the overall reading experience. Furthermore, a few readers noted a significant number of errors in the book, such as typos and incorrect diagrams. These mistakes were seen as distracting and detrimental to their understanding of the material. As a result, they suggested that the author or publisher should conduct more thorough proofreading and editing prior to publication.

In conclusion, "Computer Organization, Design, and Architecture" by Sajjan G. Shiva received a mixed reception. While some readers found the explanations clear and appreciated the examples and exercises, others criticized the outdated content, overly technical writing style, poor organization, and numerous errors.