Course Overview

Course Duration

• Total Duration: 20 hours
• Structure: 6 parts per hour
• Total Parts: 120 parts (approx. 10 minutes each)
• Nomenclature: moduleX.partY (e.g., module1.1 for the first part of the first hour)

Course Content

• Introduction: Reference to an introduction video (view before continuing).
• Textbook: "Elements of Computing Systems" by Nizan and Shimon.
  • Available at: nand2tetris.org

What is Nand to Tetris?

• NAND Gate: Fundamental component in digital logic, universal gate.
• Course Aim: Build a complete computer system using NAND gates.
  • Create hardware capable of running Tetris.
  • Develop software layers to support this functionality.

Website Introduction

nand2tetris.org

• Homepage: Overview of the book and course materials.
• Projects: 12 steps to build a computer from NAND gates.
• Book Formats: Available in paperback, Kindle, and MIT Press formats.
• Recommendation: Purchase the book for additional insights and guidance.

Practical Course Structure

Software Use

• Software Dependency: The course relies heavily on practical software applications.
• Compatibility: Software can run on Windows, Unix, and macOS.
  • Setup guides available for each OS.

Software Installation Steps

1. Download Software: Follow instructions on the website to download.
2. Extract Files: After downloading, extract the ZIP file.
3. Access Tools Directory: Navigate to the "Tools" folder.
4. Open Hardware Simulator:
   • Windows: Use the .bat file.
   • Linux: Use the .sh file.
   • macOS: Follow the setup guide provided.

Testing the Hardware Simulator

1. Load Chip: Open the hardware simulator and load a built-in chip (e.g., XR.sdl).
2. Basic Functionality Test:
   • Change inputs (A and B) and run the simulator.
   • Check output results to ensure correct operation.

Conclusion

• Installation is straightforward; reach out through the discussion forum on the website for clarifications.
• Emphasis on practical learning through projects throughout the course.