Assembler Language from edX

Computing involves processing information. In order to be processed, information must be represented in such a way that it can be manipulated by a machine ubiquitous in today’s society - the computer.

**** The computer is a physical device that is based on binary digital logic. From this logic, physical components (hardware) such as memory and processors are designed. These components must fetch, execute and respond to given instructions (software).

This course provides a foundation in the organization and operation of a digital electronic computer starting with the binary digital logic used to represent information and build hardware components. Then, upon this foundation will be built the skills necessary to solve programs through assembly language programs. High-level language algorithms will provide the blueprints for the assembly language solutions.

Specifically, in successfully completing this course you will be able to:

Describe how computers represent information and apply this knowledge in solving problems with solutions written in assembly language.
Describe the basic organization of a computer system in terms of binary digital hardware components and apply this knowledge in solving problems with solutions written in assembly language.
Describe how instructions are fetched and executed using the digital components and apply this knowledge in solving problems with solutions written in assembly language.
Design and create assembly language programs that are solutions to problems expressed with algorithms that include high-level language concepts such as variables, data types, repetition, selection, and objects.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Foundations of computer organization
Information representation
Von neumann architecture
Storage hierarchy
Data types and variables in assembly language
Repetition in assembly language
Pre-test repetition
Post-test repetition
Selection in assembly language
Single selection
Multi-way selection
Nesting in assembly language
Nesting selection or repetition
Nesting selection and repetition

Objects in assembly language
Properties
Methods
Data structures in assembly language
Arrays
Lists
Files in assembly language
Sequential access
Random access
Ibm tools
Vsam demystified
Db2 overview
Cics overview

Foundations of computer organization
Information representation
Von neumann architecture
Storage hierarchy
Data types and variables in assembly language
Repetition in assembly language
Pre-test repetition
Post-test repetition
Selection in assembly language
Single selection
Multi-way selection
Nesting in assembly language
Nesting selection or repetition
Nesting selection and repetition
Objects in assembly language
Properties
Methods
Data structures in assembly language
Arrays
Lists
Files in assembly language
Sequential access
Random access
Ibm tools
Vsam demystified
Db2 overview
Cics overview

Good to know

Know what's good

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, and possible dealbreakers

Introduces students to the fundamentals of computer operation and assembly language programming

Builds learners' programming capabilities from the ground up, starting with the basics of binary digital logic

Provides learners with the foundation necessary to develop assembly language solutions to problems expressed with algorithms that include high-level language concepts

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 Assembler Language with these activities:

Organize Course Materials

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Helps students stay organized and facilitates effective learning by organizing course materials.

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Gather and review course syllabus, lecture slides, and assignments.
Create a filing system for notes, handouts, and other materials.
Develop a study plan and schedule.

Binary Logic Exercises

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Provides practice in binary logical operations, a fundamental concept in computer architecture.

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Solve logic puzzles involving binary operations.
Convert decimal numbers to binary and vice versa.
Simplify binary expressions using Boolean algebra.

Computer Organization Refresher

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Reviews the basic concepts of computer organization, providing a foundation for understanding assembly language.

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Read and summarize a chapter on computer organization.
Review lecture notes or online materials on Von Neumann architecture.
Take a practice quiz on computer organization.

Four other activities

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Assembly Programming Practice

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Refreshes assembly language basics and prepares you for the course.

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Review assembly language syntax and terminology.
Practice writing simple assembly language programs.
Debug assembly language programs.

MIPS Assembly Language Tutorial

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Introduces MIPS assembly language and provides hands-on practice.

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Follow a guided tutorial on MIPS assembly language.
Complete exercises and assignments to reinforce understanding.

Build a Simple Assembly Program

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Reinforces assembly language concepts by creating a functional program.

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Design the logic of a simple program.
Implement the program in MIPS assembly language.
Test and debug the program.

Assembly Language Calculator

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Challenges students to apply assembly language skills and create a useful application.

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Develop the requirements and design for a simple calculator.
Implement the calculator in MIPS assembly language.
Test and refine the calculator.

Career center

Learners who complete Assembler Language will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Embedded Systems Engineer

Embedded Systems Engineers design and develop embedded systems, which are computer systems that are built into larger devices or products. They have a deep understanding of hardware and software, including assembly language. This course provides a solid foundation in assembly language and computer organization, enabling learners to build a strong foundation for a successful career in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Embedded Systems Engineer

Computer Hardware Engineer

Computer Hardware Engineers design, develop, and test computer hardware, including processors, memory, and storage devices. Understanding assembly language is crucial in this role, as it enables engineers to interact with hardware at a low level to optimize performance and troubleshoot issues. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the organization and operation of a computer system, including hardware components and assembly language.

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Software Developer

Software Developers design, develop, and test software applications. They may specialize in a particular area, such as web development, mobile development, or enterprise software. Assembly language is used to optimize code for speed and efficiency, especially in embedded systems and operating systems. This course provides a strong foundation in assembly language, which can be highly beneficial for those seeking to enter this field.

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Computer and Information Research Scientist

A Computer and Information Research Scientist conducts fundamental research on the principles, design, and applications of computer and information technology. Assembly language is key to understanding how the computer stores and manipulates data, which is critical in building and designing new technologies. This course provides a foundation in computer organization, specifically in binary digital logic, hardware components, and assembly language. Completing this course can help learners gain valuable knowledge and skills to excel in this role.

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Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts analyze and design computer systems. They work with users to understand their needs and develop solutions that meet those needs. Assembly language can be useful in this role for understanding the underlying architecture of computer systems and optimizing performance. This course provides a broad overview of computer organization and assembly language, which can be beneficial for aspiring Systems Analysts.

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Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts protect computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. Assembly language is not directly related to information security, but it can provide a valuable foundation for understanding how computers work and how to protect them from threats. This course may be helpful for those interested in a career in information security who want to gain a deeper understanding of computer systems.

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Data Scientist

Data Scientists use data to solve problems and make informed decisions. They work in a variety of industries, including finance, healthcare, and technology. Assembly language is not directly related to data science, but it can provide a valuable foundation for understanding how computers work and how data is stored and processed. This course may be helpful for those interested in a career in data science who want to gain a deeper understanding of computer systems.

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Network Administrator

Network Administrators maintain and troubleshoot computer networks. They ensure that networks are running smoothly and securely. Assembly language is not directly related to network administration, but it can provide a valuable foundation for understanding how computers and networks work. This course may be helpful for those interested in a career in network administration who want to gain a deeper understanding of computer systems.

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Database Administrator

Database Administrators maintain and troubleshoot databases. They ensure that databases are running smoothly and securely. Assembly language is not directly related to database administration, but it can provide a valuable foundation for understanding how computers and databases work. This course may be helpful for those interested in a career in database administration who want to gain a deeper understanding of computer systems.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers create documentation for computer systems, software, and other technical products. They work with engineers and other technical experts to gather information and write clear and concise documentation. Assembly language is not directly related to technical writing, but it can provide a valuable foundation for understanding how computers work. This course may be helpful for those interested in a career in technical writing who want to gain a deeper understanding of computer systems.

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User Experience Designer

User Experience Designers design user interfaces for websites, mobile apps, and other digital products. They focus on creating interfaces that are easy to use and visually appealing. Assembly language is not directly related to user experience design, but it can provide a valuable foundation for understanding how computers work and how users interact with them. This course may be helpful for those interested in a career in user experience design who want to gain a deeper understanding of computer systems.

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Project Manager

Project Managers plan and execute projects. They work with teams of people to achieve project goals. Assembly language is not directly related to project management, but it can provide a valuable foundation for understanding how computers work and how to manage projects effectively. This course may be helpful for those interested in a career in project management who want to gain a deeper understanding of computer systems.

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Sales Engineer

Sales Engineers sell technical products and services. They work with customers to understand their needs and develop solutions that meet those needs. Assembly language is not directly related to sales engineering, but it can provide a valuable foundation for understanding how computers work. This course may be helpful for those interested in a career in sales engineering who want to gain a deeper understanding of computer systems.

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Business Analyst

Business Analysts analyze business needs and develop solutions to meet those needs. They work with stakeholders to gather information and develop solutions that meet business objectives. Assembly language is not directly related to business analysis, but it can provide a valuable foundation for understanding how computers work and how to develop solutions. This course may be helpful for those interested in a career in business analysis who want to gain a deeper understanding of computer systems.

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Technical Support Specialist

Technical Support Specialists provide technical support to users of computer systems and software. They help users troubleshoot problems and resolve issues. Assembly language is not directly related to technical support, but it can provide a valuable foundation for understanding how computers work. This course may be helpful for those interested in a career in technical support who want to gain a deeper understanding of computer systems.

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