COMP1203 Computer Systems I

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 with a Raspberry Pi in order to better understand computer fundamentals.

Aims and Objectives

Module Aims

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. Thus the course aims to mainly cover computer architecture, with some OS and digital electronics introduction.

Learning Outcomes

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

Describe the main components of a computer and understand their function
Understand differences between the main architectural families and modules
Understand the basic features and functions of microcontrollers

Subject Specific Practical Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

Write simple programs in a low-level programming language (assembly)

Syllabus

- Computer architecture evolution - 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

Combination of lectures, labs and self-driven reading and learning.

Type	Hours
Preparation for scheduled sessions	18
Supervised time in studio/workshop	9
Revision	10
Wider reading or practice	48
Lecture	33
Follow-up work	18
Completion of assessment task	14
Total study time	150

Resources & Reading list

Tanenbaum AS (2012). Structured Computer Organisation.

William Stallings (2012). Computer Organisation and Architecture.

Assessment

Summative

Method	Percentage contribution
Examination (2 hours)	75%
Laboratory	25%

Repeat

Method	Percentage contribution
Examination	100%

Referral

Method	Percentage contribution
Examination	100%

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External