Programming the 65816 Including the 6502, 65C02, and 65802 (1986)

Preface

It is with great excitement that we present this book, which not only introduces the 65816 and the 65802 in complete detail for the first time, but also encompasses the 6502 and 65C02 in what is meant to provide a complete reference guide to the 65x family.

As 6502 enthusiasts, we believe the two new 16-bit microprocessors—the 65802 and the 65816—represent a great leap forward. We think they hold the potential in days ahead for advances in systems and software even greater than those realized by the 6502 in the early days of the microcomputer revolution. Because of their unique compatibility with the 6502 and 65C02, they bridge the past with the future in a way that no other microprocessor has done.

While this collaboration represents our first work of reference proportions in the computer science field, both of us have written extensively in this field and others, and both of us develop software professionally. It was our unalloyed enthusiasm for the subject that led us to this undertaking. We hope the thrill we experienced when we ran our first 65802 programs on beta copies of the processor plugged into our Apples will be yours to experience, too.

Both of us learned to program primarily through books and hands-on experimentation with personal computers rather than through formal training. Because of this, we share a high regard for the value of books in the learning process and have formed strong opinions about what is useful and what is not in learning how to use and program a new microprocessor. We hope what worked for us will work for you.

Limits of Liability and Disclaimer of Warranty

The authors and publisher of this book have used their best efforts in preparing this book and the programs contained in it. These efforts include the development, research, and testing of the theories and programs to determine their effectiveness. The authors and publisher make no warranty of any kind, expressed or implied, with regard to these programs or the documentation contained in this book. The authors and publisher shall not be liable in any event for incidental or consequential damages in connection with, or arising out of, the furnishing, performance, or use of these programs.

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