The new alchemists: Silicon Valley and the microelectronics revolution

by Dirk Hanson

rare

Genres: Science, Computers, Nonfiction

364 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1983

Reviews

[Degenerate Chemist · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is another one of those books I picked up in a thrift store for the hell of it. This book was published in 1982 and as such the information in it is nearly 40 years out of date. I expected this and it wasn't initially a deal breaker.

The author traces the history of electronics from Edison to the 80s. At first I was fascinated by the history of the technology and the birth of the industry. As the book went on I was less and less satisfied with the technical explanations. I wanted details that this book just didn't provide.

Electronics are not my wheelhouse. This book mentions important inventions and concepts, but fails to sufficiently explain exactly how they work or contribute to the topic. I was more confused and had more questions finishing this book then when I started. I made it maybe a 3rd of the way through this book before I had to put it down.

Given the books age and the lack of details and explanations I would pass on this one and look for a more current take on the topic.

[Chuck Emmer]

The New Alchemists: Silicon Valley & the Microelectronics RevolutionDirk Hanson