Simpler computing refers to the concept of designing and using computers or computing systems that are straightforward, easy to understand, and efficient without unnecessary complexity. A simple computer can have a basic architecture centered on the fetch-execute cycle, where it reads an instruction from memory, executes it, and then moves to the next instruction. Such computers use a limited set of operations like load, store, add, subtract, jump, and conditional jumps, implemented in assembly language or machine code. These simple designs are often used for teaching fundamental computing principles, building specialized devices, or developing minimalist systems that solve specific problems efficiently without excess hardware or software complexity. For example, a simple computer might use basic 32-bit machine instructions with an accumulator register and a fixed set of opcodes to perform arithmetic, memory access, and control flow. Simple computers emphasize clarity in operations and instructions, often illustrated with programs like outputting powers of two or simple counting tasks. This approach helps demystify core computing processes and is foundational for understanding more complex architectures. Simpler computing also connects to minimalist computing principles focused on reducing complexity for environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, and ease of use. These principles suggest using minimal programming languages and hardware to achieve essential functions effectively. In practical terms, "simpler computing" can range from DIY microcontroller-based computers programmed in C or assembly, to theoretical models used in computer science education and research that highlight the fundamental operation cycles of computing machinery.
