Machine Language Laboratory Assignment

Overview

Use the Abniac virtual computer to experiment with basic principles of machine language programming. Write a series of simple programs and see how the computer combines simple data and control structures to present more powerful ideas

The Challenges

Challenge A

Examine the 'counter' sample program. By changing the values of only two cells, make the program count to 100 by fives.

Challenge B

Make a program that uses a loop (like counter does) to print out the first 10 letters of the alphabet.

Challenge C

Write a program that multiplies the values in cells 50 and 51. It should work no matter what values are in the cells.

Writing and Submission Details

The real goal of this exercise is to generate algorithms. The actual Abniac programs are secondary. I suggest the following approach to solving these problems. Write down the problem on paper or in a word processor Devise an algorithm as we did in class. Write this algorithm in your word processor as well. Using the table feature of your word processor, present a code trace of your program. Finally, include code of a working version of the program. (To easily get the code, use the email command from the file menu (but don't email the code!!!) Use the mouse to highlight the code in the email dialogue's text box, then copy it and paste it to your word processor document. All three programs can be placed in one word file, which you can submit to the oncourse dropbox.