The Pal8 Assembler

This document serves as an introduction to the PAL8 assembler for the OS/78 operating system. PAL8 is a two-pass assembler that converts source programs (ASCII) into binary object files. During the process, it generates an internal symbol table and can optionally produce an assembly listing file.

Key points include:

• Command Syntax: The assembler is invoked using the PAL command, which can specify binary and listing output files, input files, and various options.
• File Extensions: PAL8 defaults to a .PA extension for input files, .BN for binary output, .LS for listing output, and .TM for intermediate files.
• Operation: Users can assemble, load, and run programs using a combination of PAL, LOAD, SAVE, and R commands.
• Advanced Usage: The assembler supports multiple source file modules, custom starting addresses (via the = option), and various "Dash Options" to control listing output, terminal displays, and file routing.
• Integration: PAL8 can also be invoked via the COMPILE and EXECUTE commands.
• Workflow: The document provides a practical guide for creating a source file using the OS/78 Editor, assembling it, and verifying the output via the generated assembly listing.