A good book that talks about computers for non-engineers is 'Code' by Charles Petzold. I don't recall exactly if it covers exactly your question, but I think so. If you are interested enough to go farther it's a good choice.
Code http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/11MYtZPhJEL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA198_SH20_OU01_.jpg
