exit used in the event of a non-positive log argument. OVFLW (1E3B) is the error exit for overflow occuring during calculation of e to some power. OVFL (1FE4) is the error exit for overflow in all of the floating point routines. There is no trap for underflow; in such cases, the result is set to 0.0.

All routines are called and exited in a uniform manner:

The arguments(s) are placed in the specified floating point storage locations (for specifics, see the documentation preceeding each routine in the listing), then a JSR is used to

enter the desired routine. Upon normal completion, the

called routine is exited via a subroutine return instruction (RTS).

Note: The preceeding documentation was written by the Editor, based on phone conversations with Roy and studying the listing. There is a high probability that it is correct. However, since it was not written nor reviewed by the authors of these routines, the preceeding documentation may contain errors in concept or in detail.

-- JCW, Jr.

In the Exponent:

00 Represents -128

...

7F Represents -1

80 Represents 0

81 Represents +1

...

FF Represents +127

Exponent

Two's Complement Mantissa

SEEEEEEE

SM.MMMMMM

MMMMMMMM

MMMMMMMM

n

n+1

n+2

n+3

*JULY 5, 1976

*BASIC FLOATING POINT ROUTINES

*FOR 6502 MICROPROCESSOR

*BY R. RANKIN AND S. WOZNIAK

*CONSISTING OF:

*NATURAL LOG

*COMMON LOG

*EXPONENTIAL (E**X)

*

FLOAT

FIX

*

FADD

FSUB

*

FMUL

FDIV

*

 

 

*

 

 

*FLOATING POINT REPRESENTATION (4-BYTES)

*

EXPONENT BYTE 1

*

MANTISSA BYTES 2-4

*

 

*MANTISSA: TWO'S COMPLIMENT REPRESENTATION WITH SIGN IN

*MSB OF HIGH-ORDER BYTE. MANTISSA IS NORMALIZED WITH AN

*ASSUMED DECIMAL POINT BETWEEN BITS 5 AND 6 OF THE HIGH-ORDER

*BYTE. THUS THE MANTISSA IS IN THE RANGE 1. TO 2. EXCEPT

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Apple II manual Seeeeeee, Mmmmmmmm, Fsub

II specifications

The Apple II, launched in April 1977, was one of the first highly successful mass-produced microcomputer products. It marked a significant leap in personal computing, setting standards for future developments in the industry. Created by Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs, the Apple II differentiated itself with its user-friendly design, appealing aesthetics, and robust capabilities.

One of the standout features of the Apple II was its open architecture, which allowed users to expand and enhance the computer's functionality. This design enabled hundreds of third-party hardware and software developers to contribute to its ecosystem, resulting in an array of peripherals, including printers, modems, and storage devices. The Apple II utilized a MOS Technology 6502 microprocessor running at a clock speed of 1 MHz. Initially equipped with 4 KB of RAM, the machine could be expanded to 48 KB, accommodating more complex applications and programs.

The Apple II was also notable for its colorful graphics. It was one of the first computers to support color display, offering a 6-color palette with a resolution of 280x192 pixels in 16 colors when using its Color Graphics Card. This feature significantly enhanced the visual appeal of games and educational software developed for the platform, making computing more accessible and entertaining for various audiences.

Apple's commitment to user experience was evident in the design of the machine. It featured an integrated keyboard and a plastic case, which was both durable and visually appealing. The self-contained design included drive bays for floppy disk drives, allowing for quicker data access than traditional tape drives. It also supported audio output, enabling sound effects and music, a novelty at the time.

The introduction of the Apple DOS operating system further underscored the machine's capabilities. DOS streamlined file management and made it easier for users to navigate and manage their data. The combination of hardware and software positioned the Apple II as an educational tool and a gaming platform, fostering a vibrant software ecosystem.

The Apple II family continued to evolve, with variations like the Apple II+, IIe, and IIgs being introduced over the years. These iterations brought enhancements in memory, processing power, and graphics capabilities. The legacy of the Apple II endures, not only as a foundational product in personal computing but also as a symbol of innovation that paved the way for future advancements in technology. Its impact is still felt today, as it inspired countless developers and shaped the trajectory of the computer industry.