Programming the 65816

Programming the 65816 is a technical manual focused on programming the 16-bit 65816 microprocessor. The book covers assembly language programming techniques specific to this processor, which was used in computers like the Apple IIGS and Super Nintendo Entertainment System. The content progresses from basic concepts to advanced programming methods, including detailed explanations of the processor's instruction set and addressing modes. Each chapter contains programming examples and exercises to reinforce key concepts, with emphasis on practical implementation. The authors provide reference materials including instruction tables, timing information, and debugging techniques. Memory management, interrupts, and I/O operations receive thorough treatment through both theoretical explanation and hands-on examples. This book serves as both an educational text and technical reference, reflecting the transition period from 8-bit to 16-bit computing in the 1980s. The material presents assembly language programming as a core skill for systems programming, while documenting a significant processor in computing history.

There are very few public reviews available for this technical reference book. Readers appreciated: - Detail level on 65816 processor architecture and instruction set - Focus on practical assembly programming examples - Clear explanations of register usage and addressing modes - Inclusion of comparison info for 6502 compatibility Main criticisms: - Book is dated (published 1986) with no updated editions - Some assembly code examples contain errors - Writing style can be dense/technical Review data: Goodreads: No ratings or reviews available Amazon: No reviews available Archive.org: A few comments praising it as a useful reference but noting its age One forum comment said: "Still the most complete source on 65816 assembly even after all these years, just watch for the errata." Note: Limited review data exists since this was a specialized technical book from the 1980s microcomputer era.

Assembly Language Programming for the 65816 by Michael Fischer This book contains low-level programming techniques specific to the 65816 processor with detailed memory management explanations.

Programming the 6502 by Rodnay Zaks The guide presents core concepts for programming the 6502 processor, which shares architecture principles with the 65816.

Machine Language for Beginners by Richard Mansfield This reference covers fundamental assembly language concepts that transfer to 65816 programming through hands-on machine code examples.

Programming the Z80 by Rodnay Zaks The book demonstrates assembly language programming concepts through the Z80 processor, with techniques applicable to 65816 development.

6502 Assembly Language Programming by Lance Leventhal This manual illustrates 6502 instruction sets and addressing modes that form the foundation for understanding 65816 architecture.

🔸 The 65816 processor was used in the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), making this book invaluable for early SNES game developers and hobbyists. 🔸 David Eyes and Ron Lichty wrote this book while working at Western Design Center, the company that originally developed the 65816 processor. 🔸 The 65816 was a 16-bit extension of the popular 6502 processor, which powered the Apple II, Commodore 64, and Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). 🔸 The book was published in 1986, during a crucial transition period when developers were moving from 8-bit to 16-bit computing architectures. 🔸 The text includes detailed coverage of the processor's unique "emulation mode," which allowed it to run existing 6502 code without modification, helping preserve software compatibility during the 8-bit to 16-bit transition.