A Hypothetical Computer to Simulate Microprogramming and Conventional Machine Language
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
12-1-1988
Description
Microprogramming is no generally available to programmers because it may involve modification of a machine's native language. A hypothetical computer can provide a simulator for microprogramming projects and add considerably to one's understanding of the subject of microprogramming and the concept of a multilevel machine. The classical text, Structured Computer Organization by Andrew S. Tanenbaum, contains a design for such a hypothetical computer. This paper presents an implementation of this machine with a user interface to permit development of microprograms as well as development of programs at the conventional machine language programming level. The user interface is similar to that of MS-DOS's DEBUG program. In addition to providing the basis for projects in Computer Architecture and Computer Organization classes, the simulator is being used as a simplified hypothetical machine in a Systems Programming class for the development of assembler, linker, and loader projects.
Citation Information
Sayers, Jerry E.; and Martin, David E.. 1988. A Hypothetical Computer to Simulate Microprogramming and Conventional Machine Language. ACM SIGCSE Bulletin. Vol.20(4). 43-49. https://doi.org/10.1145/54138.54147 ISSN: 0097-8418
