Mastering Machine Code On Your Timex/Sinclair by Toni Baker (Reston, $18.95)
BASIC is a good language. In fact, it’s more than adequate for most applications, especially if you’re new to programming. But where does one turn to satisfy the cravings for mega-fast number crunching or lightning-quick graphics? The answer lies in machine language programming.
Toni Baker’s Mastering Machine Code on Your Timex/Sinclair is in essence a step-by-step tutorial on how the Z80 microchip works. Machine code is the Timex’s native language, while BASIC is a bilingual guide. Learning machine code eliminates this need for translation and the time it takes. The result is a computer program that runs more efficiently and, therefore, faster.
One of the first chapters clears the air about computers and their hexadecimal number systems. For instance, did you know that the T/S1000,ZX81 and all other personal computers use a base-16 number system? Baker tells how to make the transition from our more commonly used base ten to hexadecimal and back again.
The other chapters are filled with hands-on programming applications: the reader learns by doing. Imagine experimenting with graphics and music mixed in with your game creations. Yes, music from the Timex! Baker ignored the systems design and went on to figure a way to make music using machine code.
Programs include: Graffitti, Draughts (Checkers), Spirals and other games. Especially useful are the De-bugging and Dis-Assembler utilities. This text is must reading for anyone wanting to learn to fine tune their programs.