Debugger. The debugger allows users to have a step-by-step debugging of programs by traversing a program both forwards and backwards. They can put break points and continue the program from breakpoints.
Simulator. The simulator allows three levels of simulations. Users can have a step-by-step execution where they can halt between lines and simulate the code step by step. In the normal speed of execution, full execution takes place reflecting the intermittent states periodically. The ultimate execution reflects final state directly.
Supporting features
Crash recovery. Even if there is a sudden shutdown or crash of the application, the user can easily recover the program in this simulator.
Helper. Even if the user has very limited knowledge about user code, Code Wizard tool helps in programming 8085. The software is preloaded with a lot of sample programs to aid new users. The user manual further aids these.
Tools. The simulator has Insert DELAY Subroutine tool that allows users to generate a user-defined delay with the help of registers at a particular operating frequency.
Memory values can be set at corresponding vector interrupt addresses with the help of Interrupt Service Subroutine tool.
Number Conversion Tool facilitates inter-conversion between hexadecimal, decimal and binary number formats.
Enhanced laboratory experience
The software is designed mainly for users who do not have sufficient hardware to learn microprocessor programming. It uses the same simulation engine at the back end and the user gets the same lab experience while coding in the simulator. Moreover, there are a lot of inbuilt sample programs to aid self-learning. If you are new to microprocessor programming and really interested in coding, give it a try.
The author is assistant professor, department of ECE at SETCEM, Thrissur
