Book excerpt: True to its role as the introductory volume to the Practical Guides series, the focus of this text is on application. There are 15 chapters by 11 authors on the following: sensors, analytical instrumentation, chemical process control, final control elements, computer technology, control system theory, analog and digital control devices, distributed control systems and automation systems, programmable logic controllers, ergonomics and occupational safety, and project management strategies. In addition, three appendices are included, on laboratory standards, the basics of electricity and electronics, and the basics of chemistry. New to the second edition is a thorough revision of the text, with updated information on Internet communications, open systems, wireless networks, and other topics. The included CD-ROM contains a complete copy of the text. Annotation : 2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com).