Ivaylo Ilinkin
ABSTRACT
This paper shares experience with using Logisim to complement the hardware specification approach and accompanying simulator for the projects in "From Nand to Tetris" (N2T; Shocken et al., SIGCSE'09). Student feedback indicates that Logisim enhances the visualization of the main concepts and can be used effectively in parallel with the framework developed in N2T. This is achieved via an external Logisim library implemented by the authors that extends the rich set of components available in Logisim with the specialized circuits required in N2T (e.g ALU, CPU, Screen, Keyboard). Upon completing the projects the students are able to execute the same machine code for a Pong-like game on their Logisim and N2T computers.
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Index Terms
- Variations on "From Nand to Tetris" with Logisim and ARM
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