I am privileged to have the opportunity to edit this 25th volume of the Advances in Computers. This series is well known and highly regarded in the computer field; it has now been in existence and has continued unbroken for more than half of the lifetime of the entire field—an impressive record indeed. The volumes have played a significant role in bringing together in one place many different aspects of the computer and information fields. In fact many of the articles have become standard references, and in spite of the everchanging nature of the field many of them continue to be of value. Throughout the existence of this series, which dates from 1960, we have experienced great expansion and dynamic change in computers, their uses, and their applications. This series I am proud to say has been a part of this dramatic development, and, perhaps, even been responsible for some of it.
The Advances in Computers series has provided an opportunity for the leisurely and yet timely treatment of subjects of current interest and nevertheless of long range value. By virtue of the capability to include articles longer than most journals are willing to publish, subjects can be treated in both depth and breadth. The willingness with which widely recognized experts contribute articles is a tribute to the high regard in which the series is held.
That this series was initiated and that its direction was firmly established is due to its original editors, Franz Alt who recognized the importance and edited the first volume in 1960 and Morris Rubinoff who became a coeditor with Dr. Alt in 1962. As an example of their foresightedness, I quote from the Preface to Volume I:
Similar series on advances in other fields have proved very successful in maintaining a sense of unity in these areas. It is hoped that the present venture will accomplish the same for the computer field.