Entry requirements

A second course in computer programming, e.g. Computer Programming II.

Learning outcomes

In order to pass the course the students should be able to:

• explain how modern computer systems are constructed, including details about memory organisation, virtual and physical memory and memory technologies.
• explain the principles for constructing instruction sets
• describe constraints for computer systems in terms of bandwidth, effect, and cooling
• explain how computer systems intract with it's surroundings through input and output systems including handling of interrupts
• write small programs in assembley language that control a computer systems and its interactions with the outside

Content

The von Neumann architecture. Machine instructions and addressing. The CPU, including pipeline techniques and the control unit Microprogramming. Memory technology and structure. I/O, interrupt systems, direct memory access. External units. Assembler programming. Orientation about alternative architectures.