Computing Fundamentals Tutor ALU 02: Add & XOR

This video shows the combination of a ripple adder with XOR gates to form the basis of a simple simulated 4-bit ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit).

It is one of a series on the creation of a simulated 4-Bit ALU. Arithmetic Logic Units are digital circuits that can perform arithmetic operations on binary numbers, and are a core element of CPUs. In this video, a previously-created Adder is added to with XOR circuitry to extend the capabilities of the ALU that is being developed.

This series in turn is part of a larger series that charts the creation of a simulated 4-Bit CPU, with clear explanations of what is happening at every step of the way. Following this Super-Series is a great way to gain a strong understanding of the hardware that underpins computers, and is a great learning experience for anyone interested in computing as a career or hobby.

Roadmap:

Understanding the basics of digital electronics is fundamental to the understanding of computer hardware, and this software allows you to explore that without the need for hardware, soldering irons and the such like.