Reviews for TCP/IP Embedded Internet Applications

1. A student-friendly text, though not very academic

   Rated 3 out of 5 stars, January 12th, 2004

   I lecture to undergraduate engineers. This book will appeal to students who have a basic knowledge of hardware and software systems, and want to ask "How does networking actually work inside?". The examples are straightforward and helpful, and the fact that some of the information is rather simple will hopefully just be reassuring.

   The majority of books on TCP/IP assume that the reader is a software engineer and take a system-level, top-down approach, which is often not the best route to understanding for people with a background in circuits and logic. This book builds up from simple ideas of voltages, bits and wires. The choice of material and the structure is good, so it is unfortunate that the language is rather poor, and there are some dubious statements and generalisations. It felt rather like reading a letter from an enthusiastic amateur, not a professional academic text book.

   Having said that, there are very few books that cover this sort of material simply, but in enough detail to be useful without being tied to particular implementations. I am sure students will find it helpful.

2. Excellent coverage

   Rated 5 out of 5 stars, July 12th, 2003

   I found Dr Insam's book a useful and practical guide to TCP/IP and networking.

   His explanations included the building blocks of networking - particularly helpful for a working professional like me, as I found that much of what I knew from college was out of date. So often you read technical books that take some underlying knowledge for granted. Some of us can easily feel left behind.

   The section on how wireless networking actually works was very interesting - WiFi is clearly going to be the standard for embedded applications. Another good chapter is where he covers the practical management steps needed for plugging your lawnmower and fridge into the internet - I felt as if I could just get on and do it immediately. I found myself thinking, yeah, why isn't my digital camera already automatically connected to my computer and the internet.

   All in all, a very up to date and thought provoking book on networking. I think it will be useful for those new to networking and for those home appliance makers who want to start building the future now. It makes you wonder, where will it all lead?