How Computers Work: From Binary to Video Games

Introduction

• Computers operate using binary (1s and 0s).
• Complex software, like video games, is built on these basic operations.
• Understanding this requires knowledge of different levels of computer language.

Binary and Machine Language

• Binary: Language of computers; comprised of 0s and 1s.
• Transistors: Switches in computers; can be on (1) or off (0).
  • One switch = one bit of information.
  • 8 bits = 1 byte, 1 GB = over a billion bits.
• Conversion: Bytes can be converted to familiar decimal numbers.
• Processor: Contains billions of transistors to process data.

Assembly Language

• Low-Level Language: More readable than binary.
• Instructions: Uses codes to instruct the processor.
• Assembler: Converts assembly code to binary for the processor.
• Efficiency: Programming in assembly is less efficient than high-level languages.

High-Level Languages

• Examples: C, Java, Python.
• Function: Use simple commands; compiler turns these into complex binary instructions.
• Advantage: Focus on the bigger picture without dealing with binary details.

Conversion Process

• Start with high-level language (e.g., C).
• Example: x = 1 in C.
• Conversion to Assembly:
  • Assembly code for x = 1 is more complex.
  • Breakdown: movl (move long), memory address, value assignment (1).
• Assembly to Binary:
  • Assembler converts assembly code to binary (0s and 1s).
  • Example of binary instructions: patterns of 0s and 1s for specific operations.
  • Set patterns ensure consistency in low-level operations.

Software and Input/Output

• Software: Tells computer what to do with data.
• Display: Each pixel color has a specific numerical value.
• Inputs: Keyboard, mouse inputs modify on-screen 2D/3D images.
• Programmers: Create software that makes data interesting and interactive.

Conclusion

• Role of Programmers: Imagination and instructions bring computers to life.
• Engagement: Encouraged viewer interaction via comments and likes.