Microcomputer Fault-finding and Design

Microcomputers vary from single-chip systems, such as pocket calculators, through to industrial controllers and multi-user office computers. This rapidly proliferating range of applications has brought with it a requirement for a greater understanding of this new electronic technology and for the acquisition of new skills by servicing personnel. This book is an attempt to describe the procedures and test equipment that can be applied when fault-finding on microprocessor-based equipment. Chapter 1 reviews the principles of microcomputer operation, while chapters 2 to 3 describe items of test equipment and fault-finding procedures. The remaining chapters present a series of studies of typical microcomputer systems which should help to give the reader an understanding of formal design procedures and servicing requirements. Appendices describe the functions of all microprocessors and their supporting devices, while a glossary explains the new technical vocabulary that is associated with the modern world of electronics and microcomputers.
It is assumed that the reader has an understanding of binary numbers, basic digital electronic circuits and the use of standard electronic test equipment, for example the CRO (oscilloscope). The material presented supports the maintenance topics in BTEC and City and Guilds servicing courses. Additionally, practising service engineers and technicians should find the descriptions of great benefit. Even the computer hobbyist may be able to use the procedures to locate and eliminate faults causing total system failure or partial downgrading.