Book Image

Computer Architecture with Python and ARM

By : Alan Clements
Book Image

Computer Architecture with Python and ARM

By: Alan Clements

Overview of this book

This comprehensive guide offers a unique and immersive learning experience by combining Python programming with ARM architecture. Starting with an introduction to computer architecture and the flow of data within a computer system, you’ll progress to building your own interpreter using Python. You’ll see how this foundation enables the simulation of computer operations and learn ways to enhance a simulator by adding new instructions and displaying improved results. As you advance, you’ll explore the TC1 Assembler and Simulator Program to gain insights into instruction analysis and explore practical examples of simulators. This will help you build essential skills in understanding complex computer instructions, strengthening your grasp of computer architecture. Moreover, you’ll be introduced to the Raspberry Pi operating system, preparing you to delve into the detailed language of the ARM computer. This includes exploring the ARM instruction set architecture, data-processing instructions, subroutines, and the stack. With clear explanations, practical examples, and coding exercises, this resource will enable you to design and construct your own computer simulator, simulate assembly language programs, and leverage the Raspberry Pi for ARM programming.
Table of Contents (18 chapters)
1
Part 1: Using Python to Simulate a Computer
Free Chapter
2
Chapter 1: From Finite State Machines to Computers
10
Part 2: Using Raspberry Pi to Study a Real Computer Architecture

Part 1: Using Python to Simulate a Computer

In this part, you will be introduced to two threads: the digital computer and the programming language Python. The purpose of this book is to explain how a computer works by constructing a computer in software. Because we assume that the reader will not have a knowledge of Python, we will provide an introduction to Python. However, we will cover only those topics relevant to building a computer simulator are explored. The topics of the structure and organization of a computer and Python programming are interleaved. Once we have introduced theTC1 (Teaching Computer 1) simulator, the two final chapters will first explore ways of enhancing the simulator's functionality, and then look at simulators for alternative architectures.

This section comprises the following chapters:

  • Chapter 1, From Finite State Machines to Computers
  • Chapter 2, High-Speed Introduction to Python
  • Chapter 3, Data Flow in a Computer 
  • ...