Computers form a vital part of most people's lives. But what is the nature of the computer? How does it work? What will the next generations of computers look like? Darrel Ince looks at the basic concepts behind all computers; the range of their uses, the effects of computers in the workplace, and novel forms such as quantum computers. Looks at how the computer has affected the world that we live in, describing the technologies involved and the applications that have emerged Explains the basic architecture of the computer and how it works Considers a range of uses; from the effect of computers in the workplace and the growing power and roles of global computer networks to the future miniaturization of computers and new forms such as quantum and DNA computers Explores the limits of computing and what the future holds Part of the bestselling Very Short Introductions series - over three million copies sold worldwide