Discrete-Event Simulation:  A First Course

This book presents an introduction to computational and
mathematical techniques for modeling, simulating, and
analyzing the performance of various systems.  The
system models are primarily: stochastic (at least some
of the system state variables are random); dynamic (the
time evolution of the system state variables is
important); and discrete-event (significant changes in
system state variables are associated with events that
occur at discrete time instances only).  Therefore, the
book represents an introduction to what is commonly 
known as discrete-event simulation.  There is also a
significant, but secondary, emphasis on Monte Carlo
simulation and its relation to static stochastic systems.

We presume the reader has taken the undergraduate
equivalent of the first several courses in a conventional 
computer science program, two calculus courses, and a
course in probability or statistics.  The book has ten
chapters, organized into 40 sections.  The book is
organized consistent with a dual philosophy: (i) begin to
model, simulate, and analyze simple-but-representative
systems as soon as possible; (ii) whenever possible,
encourage the experimental exploration and self-discovery
of theoretical results before their formal presentation. 
We have tried to achieve a writing style that emphasizes 
concepts and insight without sacrificing rigor.  We
provide C and Java software as source code for running
simulations developed in the text and for homework
exercises.  The text is 604 pages long and contains
218 figures and 389 exercises.  The text is appropriate
for advanced undergraduates and graduate students.