My Favorite App
Ever since I was a primary student, I’ve been obsessed with programming. Started with prewritten block-code sites (I was introduced to Code.org and Scratch in a 6th-grade CS class), then progressed to more intermediate languages like JavaScript and C++. After watching a video about Boolean logic, I realized that I needed to learn more about the underlying technology in order to get a deeper understanding of the subject I love.
My initial plan was to disassemble random Win32 executables on my desktop, like cmd, but I didn’t really know anything about compiling at the time; all of my attempts ended in failure. Ended up postponing my interests for a few months, until I landed a spot in an IT class. It was the first time that I was intimately introduced to the hardware that makes up a PC, and I instantly became intrigued by the systems and techniques that allow it to function. Began researching the fundamentals of microprocessors and dynamic memory, and I’m currently working on my own 8-bit demo in JavaScript!
Ultimately, the biggest struggle in my journey was commercialization. Having to wade through dozens of those awful PowerPoint-style processor diagrams just to find a useful guide was awful. Almost every nugget of information I found on the web was either totally oversimplified (likely designed for marketing purposes rather than to actually educate) or ridiculously complex (circuit schematics for legitimate engineers, not hobbyists like myself). It took me years just to get a solid grasp on the concept of machine code.
But stuff like this are what kept me going. Small, yet practical articles and videos created by someone with the same fondness for low-level tech that I possess. Someone who isn’t just trying to make a quick buck, but instead genuinely seeks to inform their audience. They’re like little trail markers, guiding the way for those who dream of following in their footsteps.
This is my favorite app. Download it for yourself to figure out why. Even if you never assemble a single program, the information that it contains will last you a lifetime.
My initial plan was to disassemble random Win32 executables on my desktop, like cmd, but I didn’t really know anything about compiling at the time; all of my attempts ended in failure. Ended up postponing my interests for a few months, until I landed a spot in an IT class. It was the first time that I was intimately introduced to the hardware that makes up a PC, and I instantly became intrigued by the systems and techniques that allow it to function. Began researching the fundamentals of microprocessors and dynamic memory, and I’m currently working on my own 8-bit demo in JavaScript!
Ultimately, the biggest struggle in my journey was commercialization. Having to wade through dozens of those awful PowerPoint-style processor diagrams just to find a useful guide was awful. Almost every nugget of information I found on the web was either totally oversimplified (likely designed for marketing purposes rather than to actually educate) or ridiculously complex (circuit schematics for legitimate engineers, not hobbyists like myself). It took me years just to get a solid grasp on the concept of machine code.
But stuff like this are what kept me going. Small, yet practical articles and videos created by someone with the same fondness for low-level tech that I possess. Someone who isn’t just trying to make a quick buck, but instead genuinely seeks to inform their audience. They’re like little trail markers, guiding the way for those who dream of following in their footsteps.
This is my favorite app. Download it for yourself to figure out why. Even if you never assemble a single program, the information that it contains will last you a lifetime.
Show more
Response from developer
This is fabulous! Glad you like the app so much. Hopefully, it will lead you to more assembler based environments and programming.
I really want to like this app…
This application is impressive, and the developer shows a great deal of passion in the implementation. However, if you are visually-impaired it is completely in accessible. Starting from the main screen onward, there are several obstacles to using it if you are low - vision or blind.
I attempted to navigate the developers website, but again the color scheme was too difficult to make that a possibility.
It is my sincere hope that these minor design issues can be corrected, because I see this as a very useful learning tool.
I attempted to navigate the developers website, but again the color scheme was too difficult to make that a possibility.
It is my sincere hope that these minor design issues can be corrected, because I see this as a very useful learning tool.
Show more
Response from developer
As it turns out, the developer is visually impaired. He does the best he can. Sorry the experience is so bad for you. You can also adjust via “Accessibility” in “Settings”. The app will adjust to many accessibility settings to help those visually impaired.
Nice tool to go along with the build
Only problem I’m having is there is no sound with your hint videos. The Ben Eater YouTube videos are fine. Tried on two different phones. iPhone X and Xs MAX. Thanks for putting this App out.
Response from developer
The hint videos were not recorded with sound. They are in keeping with the idea of hints. There is a bit more detail at: http://www.peskymooseandsquirrel.com/CPU8Support.html
