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

Getting started with Python

Before we look at Python in more detail, we will provide a brief introduction to getting started with Python and demonstrate a short program. Although we have not even introduced the basics of the language, Python programs are remarkably easy to follow.

Python is a computer language such as C or Java and, like every computer language, it has its advantages and disadvantages. We have chosen to use Python because it is free and universal, there’s a vast amount of information about it, and, most importantly, it has a very shallow learning curve. Indeed, Python has become one of the most popular languages used in computer science education.

Python was conceived by the Dutch computer scientist Guido van Rossum, and the stable Python 2.0 was released in 2000. Today, Python is promoted by the Python Software Foundation, a body of volunteers whose aim is to develop the language as a public service.

The high-level language programs in this text were...