Jim Harris

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5 years, 8 months ago.

micro:bit - Assembly language programming - assembler and instruction set?

I am playing around with a micro:bit and would like to try using an assembler and assembly language on it. How can I do this? Is it even possible?

Thanks!

Jim "JR"

Question relating to:

Last updated: 09 Feb 2021
The BBC micro:bit is a pocket-sized, codable computer that allows anyone to get creative with technology. Made possible through a major partnership with 31 organisations, a micro:bit has been given …

1 Answer

Jenny Plunkett
5 years, 8 months ago.

Hi Jim,

I would check out these documents on how to use assembly language with the micro:bit:

Please let me know if you have any questions!

- Jenny, team Mbed

If this solved your question, please make sure to click the "Thanks" link below!

Jenny,

Thank you! I am convinced that things like the micro:bit have a lot of latent power if only the developer can reach it.

Likewise, I believe the software loaded to the micro:bit contains a lot of "fluff" and "filler" that - though possibly convenient - takes up precious and valuable space on the device.

What I would like to be able to do is:

1. Know how to program in raw assembler if desired, (and include the necessary ASM libraries.)

2. Given an assembly language program, (as produced by Microsoft MakeCode, for example), be able to run it through an assembler and load it to the micro-bit. It's likely that it will have to be converted into Intel hex, but that's not a problem.

Asa an aside, I remember doing raw, (no support libraries!), 8085 assembler on a Kpro-II back in the '80's where the EPROM burner would accept only Intel hex or Motorola S-records. (:grin!:) I've also done a bit of x86 coding when space was tight.

Is this possible, or do I have to go through the C/C++ route and all the additional overhead that involves?

Thanks!

Jim "JR"

posted by Jim Harris 16 Aug 2018

Jenny,

The articles you mention reference how to include assembly language code into a higher-level language. Is there any way to program this beastie is raw assembler?

Thanks!

Jim "JR"

posted by Jim Harris 20 Aug 2018