Introductory description

The Computer Architecture and Systems module is core for electrical, electronics and systems and option for all the other streams. It covers basic architecture and programming knowledge of selected digital computer systems and microcontrollers.

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: Data types, operators, loops, pointers, bitwise operations.
Data Representation: Binary numbers, Boolean algebra, unsigned and signed integers, fixed and floating point, ASCII.
Logic and Digital Arithmetic: Basic function truth tables, Karnaugh maps, combinational circuits: multiplexers, decoders, half and full adders, sequential circuits : latches, flip flops, finite state machines.
Instruction Set Architecture: Assembly language, machine instructions including memory , branch and data processing, addressing modes, program flow.
Processor Microarchitecture: Memory, ALU, program counter, register file, control unit, single-cycle and pipelined processors.
Input/Output: GPIO, UART, SPI, I2C, timers, interrupts, PWM, A/D & D/A conversion.
Microcontroller Programming: Loops, registers, interrupts, timers, accessing peripherals.

Learning outcomes

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

• Solve combinational and sequential circuit problems. Implement logic functions using these building blocks [M1,M6]
• Decompose complex programs into low-level instructions corresponding to the operation of a processor microarchitecture and how complex programs can be decomposed into such instructions. [M2]
• With the aid of technical literature, compare a variety of interfaces between external peripherals, memory and processor or microcontroller [M4]
• Synthesise C programs and C programs for Microcontrollers. Create structured microcontroller programs in C, taking advantage of interrupts and timers, and communicating with external peripherals [C3(D),M3(D),M12]

Indicative reading list

• S. Harris and D. Harris. Digital Design and Computer Architecture: ARM Edition. Publisher: Morgan Kaufmann, 2016, 732 pages, Ebook ISBN: 9780128009116
• W. Stallings, Computer organization and architecture: designing for performance, 2022, 892 pages, Ebook ISBN: 9781292420080
• J. Purdum, Beginning C for Arduino, Learning C Programming for the Arduino, 215, 388 pages, Ebook ISBN: 978148420940-0

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.