If you took
the way-back machine to the 1980s, the Holy Grail would have to
be " The Art Of Electronics " by Horowitz & Hill ( ISBN: 0 521 37095 7 ).
It is also a favorite of some others on this list ( like Tony ). I cannot
think of a better single source of technical information. I got mine used
on Amazon for a song.
Best regards, Steven
That one's been on my list for a while, I should check there and see if
there's a relatively inexpensive copy...
While this is a somewhat expensive book if bought full-price, I think
it's good value. It's packed full of useful information, it's clearly
written, and 'pracitcal' I have both 1st and 2nd edition and don't regret
uying them
Also consider the companion 'Student Manual' which is basically a course
of practical electronic experiments (from the properties of resistors to
making a microcomputer system!). Again a lot of useful stuff in there.
-tony