Introduction to Computer Organization: ARM Edition

See How the Magic Happens

Built with ARM A64 Assembly Language

The ARM edition of Introduction to Computer Organization will show you how high-level code connects to computer hardware through ARM 64-bit assembly language. You’ll learn ARM assembly language from the ground up, and all you’ll need is some basic experience with programming. As you grow to understand ARM’s 64-bit design (from first principles), you’ll develop the skills to write more efficient, optimized code.

Learn the fundamentals:

• Data storage formats and computer encoding
• Binary and hexadecimal arithmetic operations
• Boolean algebra and logic gates
• Digital circuit design 

Explore how software and hardware interact:

• Memory hierarchy, from CPU registers to the cloud
• CPU architecture and instruction execution
• ARM 64-bit assembly language programming

Get hands-on experience programming the GPIO on Raspberry Pi 3, 4, and 5 in assembly. Use GNU programming tools to examine code generated from C and C++ by the compiler, write assembly programs from scratch, and use the debugger to visualize execution, inspect registers, and understand machine-level operations. Each chapter includes practical “Your Turn” exercises to reinforce key concepts and build real-world programming skills.

Whether you’re optimizing code performance, developing embedded systems, or simply curious about how computers execute your programs, this guide provides deep insight into how software and hardware interact to bring programs to life.

Robert G. Plantz started his career designing electronics for the Gemini spacecraft and Apollo Lunar Module. Plantz earned his PhD in electrical engineering at UC Berkeley and was a professor of computer science at Sonoma State University for 21 years.