IBM
z/Architecture Assembler Language Pt 2: Machine Instructions
IBM

z/Architecture Assembler Language Pt 2: Machine Instructions

Jeff Bisti

Instructor: Jeff Bisti

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level

Recommended experience

14 hours to complete
3 weeks at 4 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level

Recommended experience

14 hours to complete
3 weeks at 4 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Code z/Architecture machine instructions that copy data to/from registers, perform signed binary integer arithmetic operations, and operate on bits.

  • Code z/Architecture machine instructions that compare signed binary integers, perform conditional/unconditional branching, & move/compare characters.

  • List the Assembler Jump and Branch extended mnemonics.

    Understand the role of the PSW condition code and PSW program mask.

  • Code z/Architecture machine instructions that perform decimal arithmetic operations.

    Format a decimal number for displaying or printing.

Details to know

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October 2024

Assessments

15 assignments

Taught in English

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There are 6 modules in this course

This module continues with a focus on assembler, transitioning from the "why" to the "how." We'll explore key machine instructions—LOAD and STORE—which move data in and out of registers and memory. These instructions are fundamental to assembler programs and conform to z/Architecture specifications. The LOAD instruction variants include moving data to register halves or full registers using base displacement, long displacement, relative addressing, and immediate operands. STORE instructions mirror these variants but move data from registers to memory. Understanding these instructions' patterns and uses is crucial for efficient assembler programming, enabling both the maintenance of older programs and the creation of new, optimized applications. You will also get started with your first hands on lab exercise in this module.

What's included

5 videos3 readings2 assignments2 app items

This module delves into advanced arithmetic instructions in assembly language, focusing on addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division operations. We will explore the nuances of integer and floating-point arithmetic, handling of remainders, signed and unsigned operations, and the intricacies of instruction sets used for these calculations.

What's included

3 videos3 assignments2 app items

In this module, you'll delve into the concepts of jumping, branching, and comparing instructions in programming. We'll start with the basics of program execution, highlighting how the CPU processes instructions sequentially—unless interrupted by jumps or branches. You'll learn the differences between conditional and unconditional jumps, as well as the role of extended mnemonics in simplifying coding. We'll then explore branching in detail, including various formats like base-displacement and relative addressing. Finally, we'll cover comparison instructions, focusing on how to compare signed binary integers and set condition codes. By the end of the module, you'll be well-prepared to code and debug using these essential instructions.

What's included

3 videos1 reading2 assignments1 app item

In this module, you'll take a detour from working with signed binary integers and dive into instructions that operate on character strings. The module delves into how characters are used to represent data in a readable form and introduces key concepts like the EBCDIC character representation. You will learn about MOVE and COMPARE instructions, focusing on their role in manipulating and comparing character data. The module also covers the importance of setting and testing individual bits within z/Architecture, using logical operations like AND, OR, and XOR. Through practical examples, you will understand how to efficiently manipulate and clear memory fields, ensuring accurate data processing and output.

What's included

3 videos2 assignments1 app item

In this module, you'll explore essential z/architecture instructions that handle decimal numbers. You'll delve into decimal formats, and learn to perform arithmetic operations like adding, subtracting, multiplying, rounding, and dividing. The module covers how to move and compare decimal numbers and introduces key concepts such as packed decimal format and operand management. Additionally, the module delves into essential operations for working with packed decimals in assembler language. You'll explore how to round decimals using the Shift and Round Decimal (SRP) instruction, including understanding its operands, condition codes, and how to handle both rounding and overflow scenarios. You will practice decimal arithmetic operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, with a focus on avoiding common pitfalls like division errors and overflows. The module also covers how to format decimals for display using the EDIT instruction, ensuring accurate and readable output. Through detailed explanations and practical examples, you'll understand how these instructions maintain precision and manage large numbers, ultimately enhancing your ability to work with decimal data in assembly language.

What's included

7 videos5 assignments1 app item

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What's included

1 assignment

Instructor

Jeff Bisti
8 Courses37,644 learners

Offered by

IBM

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