Module overview
This module aims to give students an understanding of the fundamentals of computer hardware and of the principles of operation of computers and peripheral devices. In addition, the module aims to give an overview of the main families of microprocessors and their differences. Some digital electronics is also covered - with hands-on experience in the lab with a Raspberry Pi in order to better understand computer fundamentals.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- The main families of computer architectures
- Basic security aspects of computer architectures.
- The key components of a computer and their functions
- The basic features and functions of microcontrollers
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Write simple programs in a low-level programming language (assembly)
- Explore architectural concepts using an ARM-based single board computer
Syllabus
• Evolution of computer architecture
• Introduction to Digital Electronics
• Computer arithmetic
• Assembly programming
• CPU structure
• RISC, Superscalar Architectures
• Buses and Interconnection
• Memory Systems and cache
• Input and Output. Interrupts
• Storage systems and RAID
• Advanced architectures
• Introduction to Operating Systems
• Introduction to networks
• Hands-on with ARM Linux-based single board computer
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
The content of this module is delivered through lectures, the module website, directed reading and pre-recorded materials.
Students work on their understanding through a combination of independent study and preparation for timetabled activities, along with formative assessments in the form of coursework assignments.
Students work on their practical skills and technical understanding in technical laboratories and assessed laboratories.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Wider reading or practice | 50 |
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 10 |
| Specialist Laboratory | 20 |
| Follow-up work | 18 |
| Revision | 16 |
| Lecture | 36 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
William Stallings (2012). Computer Organisation and Architecture. Pearson.
A.S. Tanenbaum (2012). Structured Computer Organisation. Pearson.
Assessment
Assessment strategy
This module is assessed by a combination of coursework, assessed laboratories and a final assessment in the form of a computer aided examination.Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Examination | 70% |
| Laboratory Exercises | 30% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Examination | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Examination | 100% |