TacOS is a hobby operating system kernel written from scratch in C and Assembly, designed with the specific goal of running DOOM. It features a custom bootloader, memory management, keyboard driver, and a VGA driver supporting a 320x200 resolution. The kernel interfaces with a custom DOOM port, allowing the game to run directly on the bare metal without relying on any underlying operating system like DOS. This project demonstrates a minimal but functional OS capable of running a complex application, showcasing the core components required for basic system functionality.
A Hacker News user named "UnmappedStack" has proudly presented TacOS, an operating system kernel developed entirely from scratch, culminating in the impressive feat of running the classic video game DOOM. This project, hosted on GitHub, demonstrates a deep dive into low-level programming and operating system fundamentals. The kernel, written predominantly in C and a small amount of assembly language, provides the foundational software layer required to interface directly with the hardware and manage system resources. It's a testament to the builder's understanding of crucial OS components like memory management, process scheduling, and interrupt handling. The fact that it can run a graphically demanding game like DOOM indicates a functional graphics driver and sufficient performance capabilities. While the primary goal and achievement highlighted is running DOOM, the project likely involves a multitude of underlying functionalities necessary for any operating system, including file system interaction (although perhaps limited), input handling, and the intricate dance between hardware and software to create a cohesive and functional computing environment. The project showcases not only the technical prowess required to build such a system but also the dedication and perseverance involved in such a complex undertaking. The ability to boot and run a game like DOOM within this self-built environment signifies a significant milestone and a comprehensive understanding of the core principles of operating system design. This project is likely a personal learning endeavor, demonstrating the creator's journey through the complexities of building an OS from the ground up, brick by digital brick.
Summary of Comments ( 60 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43778081
HN commenters generally express interest in the TacOS project, praising the author's initiative and the educational value of writing a kernel from scratch. Some commend the clean code and documentation, while others offer suggestions for improvement, such as exploring different memory management strategies or implementing a proper filesystem. A few users express skepticism about the "from scratch" claim, pointing out the use of existing libraries like GRUB and the inherent reliance on hardware specifications. Overall, the comments are positive and encouraging, acknowledging the difficulty of the project and the author's accomplishment. Some users engage in deeper technical discussion about specific implementation details and offer alternative approaches.
The Hacker News post titled "Show HN: My from-scratch OS kernel that runs DOOM" (https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43778081) has generated a number of comments discussing various aspects of the project.
Several commenters praised the author for undertaking such a challenging and educational project. They acknowledge the significant effort required to build an OS kernel from scratch, especially one capable of running a complex game like DOOM. This sentiment is expressed through comments like "Impressive work!" and affirmations of the learning experience inherent in such an endeavor.
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the technical details of the project. Commenters inquire about specific implementation choices, such as memory management, interrupt handling, and the process of porting DOOM to the custom kernel. The author actively engages with these questions, providing insights into the design decisions and the challenges encountered during development. This back-and-forth creates a rich technical exchange, delving into the intricacies of OS development.
The choice of DOOM as the demonstration application also sparks conversation. Some commenters express nostalgia for the classic game and appreciate the demonstration of the kernel's capabilities. Others discuss the practical implications of running a game on a custom kernel, touching upon performance considerations and the potential for future development.
There's discussion about the project's licensing, with some commenters raising questions about the use of GPL components and their implications for the overall project license. This leads to a brief discussion about open-source licensing and its practical application in such projects.
A few commenters offer constructive criticism and suggestions for improvement. These include recommendations for code optimization, potential features to add, and resources for further learning. This feedback demonstrates the collaborative nature of the Hacker News community and the willingness to help fellow developers improve their projects.
Finally, some comments focus on the educational value of such projects. They highlight the importance of hands-on experience in understanding the inner workings of an operating system and encourage others to undertake similar endeavors. This reinforces the theme of learning and exploration that permeates the discussion.