What is Sweet16?
Sweet16 is a virtual 16-bit machine designed to run on 8-bit hardware. It provides a compact and flexible way to handle 16-bit operations using a dedicated set of instructions and virtual registers. This approach is especially useful on systems with limited native support for 16-bit arithmetic.
Origin and Creator
Sweet16 was developed by Steve Wozniak in 1977 while working on the Apple II. At the time, the 6502 processor was limited to 8-bit operations, which made working with 16-bit addresses and values cumbersome. To address this, Wozniak designed a small interpreter that emulated a 16-bit CPU, allowing Apple II software to more easily manipulate large data structures and memory addresses. It was initially used internally within the Apple II monitor ROM to simplify code and save memory.
Key Features of This Interpretation:
- Full implementation of the original instruction set
- Optimized for 6502-based systems
- Minimal extensions for improved hardware integration
- Lightweight interpreter suitable for embedding in larger projects
- Includes example programs and documentation
Use Cases and Benefits:
- Simplifies working with 16-bit pointers, counters, and data structures
- Ideal for text adventure engines, user interface logic, and modular design
- Promotes clearer code structure in complex programs
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