YMK
07-06-2001, 07:02 PM
Ok. I want to get into assembly programming and get into the hardware level of computers. I have a good understanding of the hardware and some assembly. For my first project, I want to make a MIDI compatible hardware wavetable. I have the programming knowledge to mix and transpose sound waves. I think I will use square waves before I load any instrument samples. The only problem is I don't know which CPU to use. I thought about the Z80. Several things about this chip turned me off though: 1.) 64K memory adressing 2.) 8 bit data bus 3.) Slow clock speed (although I hear newer models go up to 25Mhz I can't find any!)
I'm afraid this chip is way too underpowered to put out 8-bit 44.1 khz stereo samples. The 68000 isn't looking too great either. It has a 24 bit memory adress (16MB) and 16 data bits, which would make it easier to do 16-bit 44.1 khz stereo samples, but a maximum clock speed of 16mhz. Could I use a 68030 as a drop in replacement for the 68000 (given I change the necessary pin connections)?
Should I consider an 80386 or something else?
I'm afraid this chip is way too underpowered to put out 8-bit 44.1 khz stereo samples. The 68000 isn't looking too great either. It has a 24 bit memory adress (16MB) and 16 data bits, which would make it easier to do 16-bit 44.1 khz stereo samples, but a maximum clock speed of 16mhz. Could I use a 68030 as a drop in replacement for the 68000 (given I change the necessary pin connections)?
Should I consider an 80386 or something else?