A Journey into Digital Logic and Computer Architecture
Following Ben Eater's comprehensive video series, I built a complete 8-bit computer from scratch using basic electronic components on breadboards. This project provided deep insights into how computers work at the fundamental level.
As someone passionate about technology and preparing for a career transition into AI, I wanted to understand computers at the most fundamental level. This project provided that understanding and demonstrated my commitment to hands-on learning.
Beyond the technical knowledge, this project developed my patience, systematic thinking, and ability to troubleshoot complex interconnected systems - skills directly applicable to my current risk management role and future AI career.
Built primarily on weekend mornings and some evenings, fitting around family time and work commitments. The project taught me valuable lessons about breaking complex tasks into manageable components.
“The first time the computer successfully executed a program and displayed the correct output. Seeing months of work come together in that moment was incredibly rewarding.”
The systematic thinking and complex system debugging skills developed in this project directly apply to my current role managing risk systems transformations at ICBC.
Understanding computer architecture at this level provides a solid foundation for understanding how AI models are executed and optimized at the hardware level.
This project exemplifies my approach to learning - diving deep into subjects that interest me and building practical understanding through hands-on work.
Supplementary reading for understanding the theoretical foundations