This book explores the engineering of system products utilizing computing technology. These systems can be standalone products, like computers, or integrated control systems within larger products, such as factory automation, transportation systems, and personal devices like mobile phones. The authors emphasize a development process characterized by an integrated sequence of steps, employing scientifically grounded techniques. The stages of this process are governed by controls and standards, ensuring that the final product meets its intended purpose for users and as a viable business venture. This requires consideration of various requirements, including functionality, cost, size, and reliability. Defining computing technology is complex, as it encompasses more than just computers and software. Many tasks traditionally handled by software can also be executed by the digital hardware that constitutes a computer. Additionally, hardware may not always be digital; given our analogue world, analogue signals often interact with system boundaries, and it can sometimes be beneficial to allow these signals to penetrate further into the system.
