A computer is a device that can perform computations and make logical decisions
phenomenally faster than human beings can. Many of today's personal computers can
perform billions of calculations in one second—more than a human can perform
in a lifetime. Supercomputers are already performing thousands of trillions (quadrillions)
of instructions per second! To put that in perspective, a quadrillion-instruction-per-second
computer can perform in one second more than 100,000 calculations for every person
on the planet! And—these "upper limits" are growing quickly!
Computers process data under the control of sets of instructions called computer
programs. These programs guide the computer through orderly sets of actions specified
by people called computer programmers. The programs that run on a computer are referred
to as software. In this book, you'll learn today's key programming methodology that's
enhancing programmer productivity, thereby reducing software-development costs—object-oriented
programming.
A computer consists of various devices referred to as hardware (e.g., the keyboard,
screen, mouse, hard disks, memory, DVDs and processing units). Computing costs are
dropping dramatically, owing to rapid developments in hardware and software technologies.
Computers that might have filled large rooms and cost millions of dollars decades
ago are now inscribed on silicon chips smaller than a fingernail, costing perhaps
a few dollars each. Ironically, silicon is one of the most abundant materials—it's
an ingredient in common sand. Silicon-chip technology has made computing so economical
that more than a billion general-purpose computers are in use worldwide, and this
is expected to double in the next few years.
Computer chips (microprocessors) control countless devices. These embedded systems
include anti-lock brakes in cars, navigation systems, smart home appliances, home
security systems, cell phones and smartphones, robots, intelligent traffic intersections,
collision avoidance systems, video game controllers and more. The vast majority
of the microprocessors produced each year are embedded in devices other than general-
purpose computers.
Good Programming Practices call attention to techniques that
will help you produce programs that are clearer, more
understandable and more maintainable.
Error-Prevention Tips contain suggestions for exposing bugs
and removing them from your programs; many describe aspects of
programming that prevent bugs from getting into programs in
the first place.
Common Programming Errors point out the errors that students
tend to make frequently. These Common Programming Errors reduce
the likelihood that you'll make the same mistakes.
Software
Engineering Observations highlight architectural and design
issues that affect the construction of software systems,
especially large-scale systems.
Exercise 4
World of Disney
Disney Land - A World of Dreams
Fun @ Disney
Grab your camera and get ready to Meet’n’Greet all your favourite Disney Characters for an encounter that’s unforgettable for all ages. To help you find them for a hug, an autograph and a photo, we’ve included when and where you can meet your favourite Disney Characters in the Disney Parks. Say cheese!
Disney Land
Enter a magical kingdom where you can sail with pirates, explore exotic jungles, meet fairy-tale princesses, dive under the ocean and rocket through the stars—all in the same day! Disneyland Park is a beloved Southern California destination where generations of families have made their Disney dreams come true. Opened in 1955, Walt Disney’s original theme park is divided into 8 extravagantly themed lands—Main Street, U.S.A., Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, Mickey's Toontown, Frontierland, Critter Country, New Orleans Square and Adventureland.