Kernel
The IsForth kernel (kernel.com) is the heart of the system. When it
runs it initializes the Forth environment and prepares for compilation
and/or execution of your applications. Without the kernel there is no
spoon ...err Forth.
This file was named kernel.com because of my twisted sense of humor. Most of my Forth coding was done using Tom Zimmers FPC which being for DOS used a .com file extension on it's kernel. IsForth is being designed to have a look and feel that is similar to FPC. I've even borrowed some small pieces of code and a few ideas too. Kudos to TZ for FPC, without which I would never be a Forth coder.
The kernel is created by executing a make within the main isforth directory. This will invoke the NASM assembler which will then assemble the isforth.asm source file within the src/kernel/ sub directory.
When assembly is completed the resultant executable (kernel.com) will be created within the main isforth directory. This file can now be executed but is not capable of much as it will still need to be extended.