The Tale of Billy the Bit

The Tale of Billy the Bit

Don Johnson

Autobiography / Memoir / Nonfiction

Billy is a Bit, a tiny element in a home Computer's memory, and he's very bored! His life consists of standing and sitting on demand without ever understanding why. So, one day, when ordered to sit by Mr Write, he doesn't. He crouches!Utter confusion ensues: Billy is IN-DE-TERMINATE, and that means that the whole System cannot function properly. Is Billy's job is more important than he thinks?This is a tale of life inside a home computer, as seen from the viewpoint of one of its tiny components - Billy the Bit. He and the other inhabitants of the computer do the actual work of making things happen for its human user.If you have ever wanted to understand how a computer operates - without studying electronics and microcircuits - this story explains how, by telling the story of how one tiny element nearly brings the system to a halt.A painless way to learn the workings of a PC, which will enable readers to understand the basics of what is going on under the covers whilst enjoying an amusing tale. Although originally aimed at children, adult experts in the field may enjoy the author's visualisation of the functions of a computer's elements.
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Off the Cuff

Off the Cuff

Don Johnson

Autobiography / Memoir / Nonfiction

This is a series of essays on life— as it is, as it was or as it might have been— as seen from a singular perspective.The view of any aspect in life depends almost entirely from one's perspective. These views reflect mine.A strong influence on my perspective is age. I'm an old man of 85 and likely have been lied to by more politicians, college professors, merchants, news media and other assorted groups than you. I have also been the recipient of many profound truths from similar groups — and even the same ones.I hope you'll enjoy reading these viewpoints whether or not you agree with them.At least it won't cost you anything to find out.
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