Historical Dictionary of Data Processing

?Although Cortada's three volumes are interrelated and are meant to be used together, LC has regretably classed them separately. Taken together, the volumes offer access to more than 400 entries on all aspects of data processing. They chronicle the history of those individuals and organizations that have contributed to the evolution of data processing over the past two decades, and jointly form a reference work that has no present parallel in the applied sciences. The introduction is a thorough history of the computer age. Technology provides background on general computer concepts, including other electronic components, early calculating machines, software, and special applications. Entries are arranged alphabetically, and the text includes charts and tables that document changes in the industry, new developments, products, and applications. Appendixes and an index make access easy. . . . Cortada has pulled together a large amount of information to provide a concise history of data processing. References are contained in endnotes to articles rather than in general bibliographies; indexing is well done, and cross-references are relevant and useful. An important set, enlightening and a pleasure to read, that belongs in all libraries that collect on any aspect of data processing.?-Choice