Beginning C (eBook)

C is the programming language of choice when speed and reliability are required. It is used for many low-level tasks, such as device drivers and operating-system programming. For example, much of Windows and Linux is based on C programming. The updated 4th edition of Beginning C builds on the strengths of its predecessors to offer an essential guide for anyone who wants to learn C or desires a 'brush-up' in this compact, fundamental language. This classic from author, lecturer and respected academic Ivor Horton is the essential guide for anyone looking to learn the C language from the ground up.

Ivor Horton is self-employed in consultancy and writes programming tutorials. He worked for IBM for many years and holds a bachelor's degree, with honors, in mathematics. Horton's experience at IBM includes programming in most languages (like assembler and high-level languages on a variety of machines), real-time programming, and designing and implementing real-time closed loop industrial control systems. He has extensive experience teaching programming to engineers and scientists (Fortran, PL/1, APL, etc.). Horton is an expert in mechanical, process, and electronic CAD systems; mechanical CAM systems; and DNC/CNC systems.

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We lelcome to Beginning C: From Novice to Professional, Fourth Edition. With this book you can become a competent C programmer. In many ways, C is an ideal language with which to learn programming. C is a very compact language, so there isn't a lot of syntax to learn before you can write real applications. In spite of its conciseness and ease, it's also an extremely powerful language that's still widely used by professionals. The power of C is such that it is used for programming at all levels, from device drivers and operating system components to large-scale applications. C compilers are available for virtually every kind of computer, so when you've learned C, you'll be equipped to program in just about any context. Finally, once you know C, you have an excellent base from which you can build an understanding of the object-oriented C++. My objective in this book is to minimize what I think are the three main hurdles the aspiring programmer must face: coming to grips with the jargon that pervades every programming language, understanding how to use the language elements (as opposed to merely knowing what they are), and appreciating how the language is applied in a practical context. Jargon is an invaluable and virtually indispensable means of communication for the expert professional as well as the competent amateur, so it can't be avoided.