Microprocessor and Microcontroller

 

This course serves as a fundamental introduction to the world of computing at its most essential level. We will peel back the layers of software abstraction to explore the core principles that govern how computers function. The central focus of our study will be the microprocessor—the "brain" of any computing device. By understanding its architecture and operation, you will gain a profound insight into the low-level organization of modern machines.

To make these concepts tangible, we will conduct a detailed examination of the iconic Intel 8086 microprocessor. As a cornerstone of modern computing history, its architecture provides an ideal educational platform for learning the foundational principles that are still relevant in today's processors. The course culminates in a practical exploration of 8086 assembly language, where you will learn to communicate directly with the hardware, writing code that gives you precise control over the processor's functions.

Our exploration is structured logically across three key chapters, designed to build your knowledge from the ground up:

  • Chapter 1: Foundations of Microprocessor-Based Systems

    • We begin by establishing the "big picture." This chapter covers the general architecture of computer systems, exploring how the microprocessor interacts with memory, input/output devices, and system buses to form a cohesive, functional unit.

  • Chapter 2: A Deep Dive into the Intel 8086 Architecture

    • With the general framework in place, we will zoom in on our specific case study: the Intel 8086. You will learn about its internal components, including its register set, memory segmentation model, instruction pipeline, and the roles of the Bus Interface Unit (BIU) and Execution Unit (EU).

  • Chapter 3: Mastering 8086 Assembly Language Programming

    • This final chapter transitions from theory to practice. You will be introduced to the syntax and structure of 8086 assembly language. Through hands-on exercises, you will write, assemble, and debug your own programs, learning to manipulate data, control program flow, and interact directly with the processor's hardware.

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

  • Explain the fundamental principles of computer operation, including the fetch-decode-execute cycle, the roles of different memory types, and the function of system buses.

  • Analyze the internal architecture of the Intel 8086 microprocessor, detailing its register set, addressing modes, and the process of instruction execution.

  • Develop, debug, and execute low-level programs using Intel 8086 assembly language to perform arithmetic, logical, and data transfer operations, thereby gaining a practical understanding of hardware-level control.