Computer Systems I

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• Basic security aspects of computer architectures.
• The key components of a computer and their functions
• The basic features and functions of microcontrollers
• The main families of computer architectures

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Explore architectural concepts using an ARM-based single board computer
• Write simple programs in a low-level programming language (assembly)

• 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

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.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.