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
Learning Outcomes
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Understand the basic features and functions of microcontrollers
- Understand differences between the main architectural families and modules
- Describe the main components of a computer and understand their function
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 |
| Revision | 10 |
| Completion of assessment task | 14 |
| Lecture | 33 |
| Follow-up work | 18 |
| Supervised time in studio/workshop | 9 |
| Wider reading or practice | 48 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
William Stallings (2012). Computer Organisation and Architecture. Pearson.
Tanenbaum AS (2012). Structured Computer Organisation. Pearson.
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Continuous Assessment | 40% |
| Final Assessment | 60% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Set Task | 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 |
|---|---|
| Set Task | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External