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Build a Modern Computer from First Principles: From Nand to Tetris (Project-Centered Course)

An exceptional course that demystifies computer systems by guiding learners through building a computer from the ground up.

access

Lifetime

level

Beginner

certificate

Certificate of completion

language

English

What will you in the Build a Modern Computer from First Principles: From Nand to Tetris (Project-Centered Course) Course

  • Digital Logic and Boolean Algebra: Understand the fundamentals of digital logic and how Boolean functions can be implemented using logic gates.

  • Hardware Description Language (HDL): Learn to specify gates and chips using HDL and simulate their behavior using a hardware simulator.

  • Building a Computer System: Construct a modern computer system from the ground up, starting with elementary logic gates and culminating in a fully functioning general-purpose computer.

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  • Assembler Development: Develop an assembler capable of translating human-readable low-level instructions into machine code.

  • System Design and Implementation: Gain insights into system design, computer architecture, and the implementation of various components of a computer system.

Program Overview

Module 1: Introduction
⏳ Duration: ~1 hour

  • Course overview and the roles of abstraction and implementation in systems design.

  • Introduction to Boolean algebra and the concept of building a computer from the ground up.

Module 2: Boolean Functions and Gate Logic
⏳ Duration: ~5 hours

  • Implementing Boolean functions using logic gates.

  • Specifying gates and chips using HDL.

  • Simulating and testing 15 elementary logic gates.

Module 3: Building an Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
⏳ Duration: ~5 hours

  • Constructing adders and an ALU to perform arithmetic and logical operations.

  • Understanding the ALU as the calculating brain of the computer.

Module 4: Memory and Registers
⏳ Duration: ~5 hours

  • Designing memory systems and registers.

  • Implementing RAM and understanding memory hierarchy.

Module 5: The Hack Computer
⏳ Duration: ~5 hours

  • Integrating the ALU and memory to build the Hack computer.

  • Understanding the architecture and functionality of the Hack computer.

Module 6: Machine Language and Assembler
⏳ Duration: ~5 hours

  • Learning the Hack machine language.

  • Developing an assembler to translate assembly code into machine code.

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Job Outlook

  • High Demand: Understanding computer systems from the ground up is valuable in various roles, including hardware engineering, embedded systems, and low-level programming.

  • Career Advancement: Skills gained from this course can lead to opportunities in system design, computer architecture, and software development.

  • Industry Relevance: Applicable across industries that require a deep understanding of computer systems and architecture.

9.7Expert Score
Highly Recommended
This course offers a unique, hands-on approach to understanding how computers work by building one from scratch. It's ideal for learners seeking a deep comprehension of computer systems.
Value
9.3
Price
9.5
Skills
9.7
Information
9.6
PROS
  • Comprehensive coverage of computer system construction.
  • Hands-on projects reinforce theoretical knowledge.
  • No prior experience required; suitable for beginners.
  • Taught by experienced instructors from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
CONS
  • Time-intensive projects may require significant commitment.
  • Some concepts may be challenging without a background in programming or electronics.

Specification: Build a Modern Computer from First Principles: From Nand to Tetris (Project-Centered Course)

access

Lifetime

level

Beginner

certificate

Certificate of completion

language

English

Build a Modern Computer from First Principles: From Nand to Tetris (Project-Centered Course)
Build a Modern Computer from First Principles: From Nand to Tetris (Project-Centered Course)
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