What is something you want to build from scratch?

Question

I've often heard that the best way to learn how something really works is to try to build your own version of it from scratch. I think the basis of this idea is that having to re-derive relevant abstractions and then implement them on your own requires/engenders a much deeper, intimate understanding of the concepts involved.As someone who loves learning and wants to improve my knowledge of computer science and programming (among other things), I often ask myself what things I'd like to build from scratch, given the time and energy. Right now this includes a compiler and an OS.So, HN, I ask you, what thing(s) do you have a burning desire to build from scratch?

haltingproblem · Accepted Answer

Enigma like crypto machine using rotary ciphers. Perhaps a Hagelin or Transvertex hc9 or a m209.https://www.cryptomuseum.com/crypto/index.htm

leeuw01 · Answer

A model checker for timed-automata.I'm currently working my way through "Timed Automata: Semantics, Algorithms and Tools" and I'm going to implement the shown algorithms.

philipswood · Answer

Given time and a freedom from financial concerns, a full stack from FPGA upwards.
(something like Project Oberon)
Maybe a relay-based CPU.
An alternative high-CPU count, low individual CPU-capability, multi-cpu system on a single chip, each with small amount of memory with "network-on-chip" interconnects.

tocs3 · Answer

A mechanical Conway's Game of Life.

What is something you want to build from scratch?

Enigma like crypto machine using rotary ciphers. Perhaps a Hagelin or Transvertex hc9 or a m209.
https://www.cryptomuseum.com/crypto/index.htm

A model checker for timed-automata.
I'm currently working my way through "Timed Automata: Semantics, Algorithms and Tools" and I'm going to implement the shown algorithms.

A mechanical Conway's Game of Life.