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 a small arm-based linux board.
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 with a small arm-based linux board.
Learning Outcomes
Subject Specific Practical Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Write simple programs in a low-level programming language (assembly)
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
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 - ARM Linux-based single board computers
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Combination of lectures, labs and self-driven reading and learning.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Wider reading or practice | 48 |
| Supervised time in studio/workshop | 6 |
| Completion of assessment task | 14 |
| Follow-up work | 18 |
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 18 |
| Revision | 10 |
| Lecture | 36 |
| 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 |
|---|---|
| Exam (2 hours) | 75% |
| Laboratory | 25% |
Referral
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Exam | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External