Book reports

The IEEE is publishing its “IEEE Computer Society Readynotes”which are guidebooks that aim at “quick starting” busy computer professionals and users. They are available as downloadable PDFs at $69 each:they serve to help those who are interested in 3D graphic tools, databases and many more innovative technologies. Full abstracts and author biographies are available at: www.computer.org/ReadyNotes.

Included in the available list are:

A Survey of 3D Graphics Software ToolsJim X. ChenThis is a quick-reference guide that categorizes 445 unique graphics tools and their major applications. This will enable users to find and employ the needed 3D tools that are required for a specific discipline. Links to online information for every 3D tool listed are provided.

Designing Databases with Object-Oriented MethodsRobert J. MullerThis guide provides a concise introduction to the use of object-oriented methods to design databases. The major topics are highlighted and use cases for illustration. These include: UML, design patterns, and,importantly, how to transform a data model into a database.

Evaluating Performance in Software EngineeringLawrence PetersThis text helps users understand the “Balanced Scorecard”method and explains how it can increase the quantity and quality of work carried out by software engineers.

Introduction to Python for Artificial IntelligenceSteven L. TanimotoResearchers in AI now demand software and expect programming languages to be available for their applications. This text provides an introduction to the Python programming language which focusses on intelligent-software applications. A useful set of AI programs written in Python are explained and documented.

Digital Avionics: A Computing PerspectiveElisabeth A. Strunk and John C. KnightThe authors write that airplanes have become flying computers and, avionics has therefore assumed a central role in their development and production. This text provides an introduction to this computer-dependent domain including aircraft dynamics, flight control systems,display technology, and dependability in the avionics systems.

Other guides to be published included: Poor Person’s Guide to Estimating Software Costs, Legal Issues for Software Engineers, and Principles of Data Visualisation.

C.J.H. MannBook reviews and reports editor