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Learning about how a computer works and about electronics

Want to learn about how a computer works?

Not- at a high level....

But, at a very, very low level, where you literally build a functional computer from transistors.

If so- this is a list of resources which I have found extremely handy for myself.

Also, because ADHD.... there is also a list of automation centric games, channels involving lasers, plasma, etc.

Building.... a PC from scratch.

For learning the basics- one of the BEST resources I have found, is a simple game.

NAND Game

In this game- you will go through the process of literally assembling a functional computer, using nothing more then a bunch of relays.

Had a lot of fun, but, want wish you could play more?

Well, Sebastian Lague built a circuit simulator, which feels much like NAND Game.

You can find it here: Digital-Logic-Sim

Want some more context? He has a video series exploring how computers work, using the above tool.

Want to build your own PC from scratch and play tetris on it?

If so, you will want to go take a look at James Sherman

His channel is dedicated to a homemade 8-bit pipelined CPU.

The populated PCBs you see in his most recent video- those aren't off the shelf.

James literally designed them. Every component has a related video series.

ALU design, UART, Audio, Memory, File Systems... ALL of it.

I want to do that- but, without AS much work.

Then checkout Ben Eater where the focus of the channel is a 6501 CPU running on a breadboard. Many of the same topics are addressed, such as input, output, assembly... etc..

Thats all nice, but, I just want to make a video game.

If so- check out Javid9

Very little assembly here- and the channel is mostly focused on writing graphical applications (games) in c++.

However, he does have an entire series on writing a NES emulator.

He explains all of the math in an easy to understand way.

Know what, I just want to PLAY a video game, and learn more about writing code

Understandable. I have a few resources for you.

Screeps is an online "MMO" where you program "bots" using javascript.

Stationeers is a resource management / survival simulator where you build a space station, and... manage resources, and elements in order to survive.

I don't actually want to play the game.... I just want to watch it.

Then, I suppose you can watch CowsAreEvil play it for you, and write the assembly.

I REALLY love automation-focused games.

So do I! Here are my favorites-

  1. Oxygen Not Included
  2. Factorio
    • One of the most optimized 2D Automation games around.
    • Very interesting Devblog too.
  3. Shapez
    • Imagine factorio, but, much simpler. Much more casual.
  4. Mindustry
    • Tower-defense, with automation and resource management.
    • And, you can play it on your phone.
  5. Satisfactory
    • Factorio, but, in 3D!
  6. Dyson Sphere Program
    • Satisfactory- but, at Universe Scale!
  7. Stationeers
    • In space, and space is trying to kill you!

And, let me share one last game.

Minecraft

At this point, you might be wondering why it is being mentioned under a section about automation-based games.....

Quite simply, Some of the modded variants have automation-based gameplay, which goes into more depth then most of the games listed above.

Take- Gregtech for example. It can have extremely complex resource diagrams, for producing materials. Platinum, for example

Personally- I have spent more hours on the automation centric minecraft mods, then I have spent on any of the games listed about.

Oh. And.... on the note of this post's original topic....

You can build a computer, in minecraft. Which plays minecraft

So- don't be quick to discredit it, based on its blocky graphics.

I don't care about the software, I want to learn more about electronics!

I have resources for that too!

Visit EEVblog where you can meet Dave, who really enjoys electrical engineering.

Or, if you prefer a bit more humor-

Check out ElectroBOOM, where you can learn about electrical engineering while watching Mehdi shock himself.

Oh, that last one was funny. DO- you have anything like this, but, more dangerous?? I like danger!

You can watch... PhotonicInduction who will casually play with many things you should not step near.

Although- be warned- he disappears for years at a time. We, aren't yet sure if he finally electrocuted himself, or was locked in prison for causing an widespread grid outage.

I like lasers and lightning. I want to build a death ray.

StyroPyro is your man.

Plasma is cool. Cna I learn more?

Plasmachannel has your back.

I just want to see random short videos involving electrical components.

GreatScott is an interesting fellow, with interesting videos. The content is pretty random, but, typically gravitates to electronics.

But- unlike the really, REALLY stupid shorts you see while death-browsing on facebook... these videos are actually useful, and educational.