Overview
Many personal computers are based on one of the 86 series of Intel microprocessors, namely the 8086, 80286, 80386, and the 80486, in order of increasing power. Programming the computer in the relevant assembly language allows the user to take full advantage of the speed and power of the microprocessor. This book is written for PC users who already have some familiarity with a high-level language such as Basic, C, or Pascal, and who want the extra facilities and efficiency of assembly language. The book starts at an elementary level with the basics of assembly programming and the properties of the microprocessor in its simplest mode of operation, the real address mode. Instructions for this mode of the 8086 and 80286 are progressively introduced through illustrative programs and subroutines. Further topics discussed are operating system calls and the 80286 protected mode. A separate chapter deals with the additional instructions of the 80386 and its modes of operation. Expanded and extended memory are also covered. The 80x87 coprocessors are treated for the benefit of readers who have one either as a part of the 80486 or as a complement to their 80x86. Numerous exercises are provided throughout the text. These enable readers to test their understanding and to gain experience in assembly programming.