AI-Assisted 8-Bit Processor Design Using Digital Logic Components for Educational Applications

ABSTRACT The increasing complexity of modern processors presents challenges for students in understanding the fundamental principles of computer architecture and digital logic design. Traditional microprocessors and microcontrollers often conceal their internal operations, making it difficult for learners to visualize how individual logic components work together to execute instructions.This study aims to develop an educational processor model that integrates Artificial Intelligence (AI) assistance with digital logic design to improve the understanding of processor architecture and instruction execution. The proposed system will utilize fundamental digital logic components, including logic gates, registers, an Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), a control unit, a program counter, and memory, to demonstrate the basic operations of an 8-bit processor. AI assistance will be explored to support circuit design, logic analysis, instruction decoding, and troubleshooting during the development process. The processor will demonstrate the fetch–decode–execute cycle and basic arithmetic, logical, and data transfer operations through a practical and observable implementation. Functional testing and simulation will be used to verify the correctness of the processor's operations and the reliability of its component interconnections. By combining AI-assisted development with hands-on digital logic implementation, the study aims to provide a practical, accessible, and cost-effective educational resource for students studying computer engineering, digital electronics, and computer architecture. The proposed system is expected to bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and practical hardware implementation while encouraging critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent learning. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, 8-Bit Processor, Digital Logic Components, Computer Architecture, Educational Applications, Instruction Execution