Unknown until the mid-19th century electronics is an essential part of everyday life today. This unique volume brings the fascinating story of electronics vividly to life. More than just an electrically powered machine an electronic device controls electrons so that it can perform a variety of complex tasks quickly and efficiently. A computer stores information on its hard drive and microchips and is controlled by microprocessors. From the bar code reader in the supermarket to the cellular phone the defence satellite and the engine management system on our cars electronics has revolutionised the modern world. Featuring historic scientific apparatus and ground-breaking experiments and inventions Electronics is a unique and exciting introduction to this essential part of modern life.