Introductory description

The module focuses on computer system hardware and how it is used to facilitate the execution of software, including topics such as data representation, digital logic, assembler, memory systems, I/O and microprocessor architecture.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Data Representation: Analog and digital data; number systems including number representations and conversions; binary variables including logic expressions and simplifications of binary variables; binary arithmetic, signed numbers; arithmetic structures, multiple precision arithmetic, floating point representation and manipulation.
Logic: Logic expressions, logic gates; Boolean algebra, logical expression simplification; combinatorial logic including implementation of adders/subtractors, multiplexers/de-multiplexers, encoders/decoders; sequential logic including implementation of storage elements, registers, shift-registers; bus structures.
Assembler: Microprocessor architecture; instruction cycles, register transfer language (RTL); instruction set and addressing modes; assembly and machine code programming.
Input/Output Mechanisms: Parallel I/O; memory-mapped and programmable I/O devices, eg VIA; I/O scheduling including programmed I/O, interrupt driven I/O, direct memory access (DMA); analog I/O.
Memory systems: Motivation for memory hierarchy; devices including magnetic tape, floppy disks, disk formats, hard disks, optical data storage; elementary error detection and correction.
Processor Architecture: Example combination of ALU, registers, and CPU; instruction set construction; control units including hardwired and microprogrammed control units; performance of microprocessors; RISC/CISC architectures.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Understand the role data representation in facilitating computation
• Understand the operation of electronic logic elements
• Understand the organisation of a computer system in terms of its components
• Understand the detailed operation of a microprocessor
• Understand the different characteristics of processor architectures
• Understand mechanisms for input / output
• Understand the role and operation of the system memory hierarchy
• Have practical experience of prototyping digital circuits
• Be able to interface digital circuits to microprocessor systems

Indicative reading list

Please see Talis Aspire link for most up to date list.

View reading list on Talis Aspire

Research element

Students are required to conduct independent research as part of their laboratory work and documentation. In addition, 20-40% of Coursework 1 is based on research and working with academic sources.

Subject specific skills

Systems analysis and design.
Systems-level programming.
Software documentation and maintenance.
Logic circuit design.
Microprocessor interfacing and design.

Transferable skills

Technical - Expertise in the analysis and design, operation of computer system hardware. An understanding of systems programming, including the ability to use a systems programming language, and how to interface with a microprocessor.
Communication - Lecture listening. Technical report writing. Technical document comprehension and analysis. Documenting software solutions.
Critical Thinking - Systems analysis and technical problem solving. Quantitative performance analysis based.
Multitasking - Management of competing deadlines and priorities. Documentation- and test-driven development.
Teamwork - Working as part of a technical team in contributing to the development and documentation of a solution.
Creativity - Developing an original solution to a problem with little guidance on the nature or form of the approach that should be taken.
Leadership - Combining teamwork, critical thinking and technical understanding in the development of a software solution.