Introduction to Computer Systems Architecture

Synopsis

This is an introductory course on the architecture of modern computer systems. It introduces the three major components of a computer system, consisting of the processor, memory and input-output control. It describes the main functions of each component and how they interact with each other. It then explores how software interacts with the computer hardware by introducing machine instructions and assembly language programming using a simplified processor.

Level: 1
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: Every semester

Topics

Overview of a computer system
Data Representation
Computer Arithmetic and Logic
CPU
Main Memory
Input-Output
Addressing modes and machine instruction programming.

Learning Outcome

Analyse the various computer data representations using different types of number systems
Describe the architecture of a microprocessor based computer system
Summarise the key features of a general purpose computer system
Describe the characteristics of vaiorus types of memory
Demonstrate the execution of a computer program in the main memory
List the components of a computer system and describe how they interact with each other
Explain how the computer software interacts with hardware
State the role of input and output modules in a computer system
Use the EASY68K simulator
Develop simple application programs using assembly language

Part-time Programmes / CET Courses

Singapore University of Social Sciences

Introduction to Computer Systems Architecture