Introduction to Computer Science

Introduction to Computer Science, 1st Edition, by Perry Donham provides non-computer science majors with a structured entry point into basic computing principles. Published by Cognella Academic Publishing, this 258-page textbook connects everyday applications to underlying technologies. The work helps students in introductory computer science courses understand the technical mechanisms behind familiar digital tools.

Initial chapters examine the historical background of computer science alongside fundamental computer numbering systems. Donham details computer hardware anatomy, focusing on the roles of central processing units and system memory. The text also explains how computer architectures perform data storage and conversion for common formats, including digital images and audio files.

To support practical file management, the book incorporates explicit instruction on techniques for reducing file sizes. Tailored specifically for non-computer science majors enrolled in introductory computer science courses, this 2018 publication offers a clear framework for understanding essential digital systems and physical hardware operations.