Introductory description

NA

Module web page

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.

Basic C: Types, operators, loops, pointers, bitwise operations.
Data Representation: Binary numbers, Boolean algebra, unsigned and signed integers, fixed and floating point, codes.
Logic and Digital Arithmetic: Basic function truth tables, Karnaugh maps, multiplexers, encoders, decoders, half and full adders, multipliers, comparators and division, sequential circuits – latches, flip flops, finite state machines.
Instruction Set Architecture: Assembly language, machine instructions including register, immediate, and jump, addressing modes, program flow.
Processor Microarchitecture: Memory, ALU, program counter, register file, control unit, single-cycle and pipelined processors.
Memory and I/O: Caches, virtual memory, GPIO, UART, SPI, I2C, high speed serial, timers, interrupts, PWM.
Microcontroller Programming: Loops, interrupts, timers, accessing peripherals.

Learning outcomes

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

• Represent different types of data in binary and perform arithmetic operations on them.
• Understand the working of combinational and sequential circuits. Implement logic functions using these building blocks.
• Explain how low-level instructions correspond to the operation of a processor microarchitecture and how complex programs can be decomposed into such instructions.
• Explain the functionality of the basic components in a processor architecture.
• Explain how external peripherals and memory are interfaced with a processor through a variety of interfaces.
• Create basic C programs and C programs for Microcontrollers. Write microcontroller programs in C that go beyond a single iteration loop, taking advantage of interrupts and timers, and communicating with external peripherals.

Indicative reading list

• S. Harris and D. Harris. Digital Design and Computer Architecture: ARM Edition. Publisher: Morgan Kaufmann, 2015, Paperback: 584 pages, ISBN-10: 0128000562, ISBN-13: 978-0-12-800056-4.
• A. G. Dean, Embedded Systems Fundamentals with Arm Cortex-M based Microcontrollers, Arm Education Media UK, ISBN 978-1911531036.
• M. R. Mano, C. R. Kime, and T. Martin, Logic and Computer Design Fundamentals, 5th Ed, Pearson 2015. ISBN 978-1292096070

Subject specific skills

Plan and manage the design process, including cost drivers, evaluating outcomes, and working with technical uncertainty.
Ability to apply relevant practical and laboratory skills.
Ability to conceive, make and realise a component, product, system or process.

Transferable skills

Numeracy: apply mathematical and computational methods to communicate parameters, model and optimize solutions.
Apply problem-solving skills, information retrieval, and the effective use of general IT facilities.
Communicate (written and oral; to technical and non-technical audiences) and work with others.
Plan self-learning and improve performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
Exercise initiative and personal responsibility, including time management, which may be as a team member or leader.
Overcome difficulties by employing skills, knowledge and understanding in a flexible manner.