z/Architecture Assembler Language Part 1: The Basics from Coursera

Welcome to z/Architecture Assembler Language Part 1: The Basics, the first course three part series for the z/Architecture Assembler Language.

This course provides an introduction to z/Architecture and the Assembler language, covers binary and hexadecimal arithmetic, the basics of z/Architecture, and the Assembler language syntax. The goal of this course is to give you the basic knowledge necessary to understand the other courses in the z/Architecture Assembler Language series. There are no hands-on labs in this course.

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

- Understand binary and hexadecimal number representations and convert them to/from decimal.

- Recognize architectural features, such as instruction formats, data representation, and storage addressing.

- Understand the Assembler language syntax, and code Assembler statements that reserve and initialize areas in storage.

- Code Assembler statements that make up a (very) simple program.

This is an intermediate course, intended for learners with a background in computer science. To succeed in this course, you should have basic knowledge of computer programming and computer architecture.

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Syllabus

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Introduction

This module introduces the structure of this course and how it will equip you with the skills and knowledge to become a proficient coder of the Assembler language with an emphasis on mastering the fundamentals first, starting from the basics and assuming minimal prior knowledge.

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Introduces foundational programming concepts through the lens of z/Architecture

Develops essential problem-solving skills

Taught by Jeff Bisti, an experienced industry professional

Examines z/Architecture concepts, which are highly relevant in the computing industry

Builds a strong foundation for beginners in the field of Assembler Language programming

Prerequisites are required, which may pose a barrier to some students

Reviews summary

Foundational z/architecture assembler basics

According to students, this course provides a solid and essential introduction to z/Architecture and Assembler Language fundamentals. Many learners commend the clear and concise explanations from the instructor, making complex topics like binary and hexadecimal systems and Assembler syntax accessible. It is widely considered a strong foundational course for those new to mainframe programming, effectively preparing students for subsequent parts of the series. While generally well-received, some mention the absence of hands-on labs as a point to consider, though this aligns with the stated course structure as a theoretical introduction.

Best suited for learners with basic computer science background.

"This course truly caters to its stated audience of intermediate learners with a CS background."

"I found the pace and content appropriate given my prior knowledge in computer programming."

"It assumes a basic understanding of computer architecture, which is fair for an intermediate course."

Crucial prerequisite for subsequent courses in the series.

"This course is essential if you plan to take Part 2 and 3 of the Assembler series."

"I now feel prepared to tackle the more advanced Assembler courses thanks to this foundation."

"It successfully delivers on its promise to provide the knowledge needed for the next parts."

Excellent for building a strong base in z/Architecture Assembler.

"This course is an excellent foundational course and provides good basic information for future courses."

"It gave me a good understanding of the basics required to move on to more advanced topics."

"Perfect for beginners to the z/Architecture world. It lays the groundwork beautifully."

Instructor provides highly effective and clear explanations.

"The instructor did a good job of presenting the basics in a clear, concise manner."

"The instructor is great and clearly explains the material, making it easy to follow along."

"I found the explanations easy to understand, even for complex topics."

"The course content is presented in a very clear way. I really appreciate the instructor's teaching style."

Lack of practical labs noted, but aligns with course focus.

"I would have preferred some hands-on labs to practice the concepts."

"While the course states no labs, it did feel a bit theoretical without practical exercises."

"The only improvement would be to add some practical coding exercises."

"As stated, there are no hands-on labs, which means you need to supplement with your own practice."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in z/Architecture Assembler Language Part 1: The Basics with these activities:

Organize course materials and resources

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Organize your notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams to enhance your learning experience and make it easier to review and retain the course material.

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Sort and arrange your materials by topic or module.
Create a study schedule and stick to it.
Review your materials regularly to reinforce your understanding.
Identify areas where you need additional support and seek clarification.

Review basic computer architecture concepts

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Refresh your knowledge of computer architecture, including binary storage and data representation to strengthen your foundation before delving into z/Architecture.

Browse courses on Computer Architecture

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Review the basic principles of computer architecture, such as Von Neumann architecture.
Understand how data is stored and represented in binary format.
Explore different data types, such as integers, floating-point numbers, and characters.
Practice converting between different data representations.

Practice binary and hexadecimal arithmetic

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Practice binary and hexadecimal arithmetic to strengthen your understanding of the fundamental numeric concepts used in z/Architecture.

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Review the concepts of binary and hexadecimal number systems.
Solve basic binary and hexadecimal arithmetic problems, such as addition, subtraction, and multiplication.
Convert binary numbers to hexadecimal and vice versa.
Practice using two's complement notation to represent negative binary numbers.

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Explore z/Architecture instruction formats

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Follow guided tutorials to learn about the various instruction formats used in z/Architecture, which will enhance your understanding of how instructions are represented and executed in the system.

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Review the different types of instruction formats, such as RR, RX, and SI.
Analyze real-world z/Architecture instructions using online resources or documentation.
Write simple z/Architecture assembly language programs using the various instruction formats.
Explore how instruction formats affect program performance and optimization.

Develop a flowchart for a simple z/Architecture program

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Create a visual representation of a simple z/Architecture program using a flowchart, which will help you visualize the program's logic and flow of execution.

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Identify the main steps and decision points in the program.
Use standard flowchart symbols to represent these steps and decisions.
Connect the symbols with arrows to indicate the flow of execution.
Review and refine the flowchart to ensure it accurately reflects the program's logic.

Design a simple z/Architecture assembly language program

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Design a simple z/Architecture assembly language program to apply your understanding of the architecture and instruction set, which will strengthen your programming skills and solidify your grasp of the concepts taught in the course.

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Determine the purpose and functionality of your program.
Design the program's logic and flow of execution.
Write the assembly language code for your program.
Test and debug your program to ensure it works correctly.
Document your program's design and implementation.

Attend an online forum or community dedicated to z/Architecture

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Participate in an online forum or community focused on z/Architecture to connect with other learners and industry professionals, which will broaden your perspectives and deepen your understanding of the field.

Browse courses on Networking

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Identify and join an online forum or community dedicated to z/Architecture.
Introduce yourself and actively participate in discussions.
Ask questions, share your knowledge, and engage with other members.
Attend virtual events or webinars organized by the community.

Career center

Learners who complete z/Architecture Assembler Language Part 1: The Basics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

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z/Architecture Assembler Language Part 1

The Basics

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What's inside

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Reviews summary

Foundational z/architecture assembler basics

Activities

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