# powdr: zkVM stack & compiler by Leonardo Alt

- Channel: [ZuBerlin](https://streameth.org/zuberlin)
- Date: 2024-06-14
- Duration: 31:46
- Topics: blockchain, ethereum, developers, coding, workshop
- Watch: https://streameth.org/watch/666c4ca007f92b086c30617e
- Download: https://vod-cdn.lp-playback.studio/raw/jxf4iblf6wlsyor6526t4tcmtmqa/catalyst-vod-com/hls/367fjrkun7jqbdwr/1080p0.mp4

## Description

Clip The video features a speaker named Leo discussing Powder, a ZK stack compiler designed for creating zero-knowledge proofs. The talk includes a high-level introduction to ZK circuits and ZK virtual machines (VMs), followed by coding demonstrations. Leo explains that ZK circuits allow for off-chain computations to generate proofs that can be verified on-chain at a lower cost than performing the computation on-chain.

He then introduces the concept of ZKVMs, which are more flexible than traditional ZK circuits because they can execute dynamic programs. Leo mentions several existing ZKVM implementations and discusses the advantages and disadvantages of current approaches.

The focus shifts to Powder, which allows developers to compile high-level code into circuits without having to write them by hand. Leo provides an in-depth explanation of how Powder works, including its architecture and integration with various proof systems. He emphasizes the flexibility of Powder in supporting different VMs and front-end languages.

Leo also demonstrates how to define a VM within Powder using an example program that computes the sum of a list. He shows how RISC-V assembly can be transpiled into Powder's intermediate representation (IR) and then compiled into constraints for proof generation.

Throughout the video, Leo addresses questions about benchmarks, VM support, and developer experience. He highlights the