Systems and Architecture
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| COMP1030 | Computer Science | 1 | 20 | Autumn Malaysia |
- Code
- COMP1030
- School
- Computer Science
- Level
- 1
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Autumn Malaysia
Summary
This module builds upon the basic understanding of the fundamental architecture of computers and computer networks obtained in G51CSF, to show how it applies in real systems. It will cover the principles of the lower level implementation of I/O using polling and interrupts, and the use of exceptions and how the Operating System uses these to manage resources, particularly as computers become inherently more parallel. It will show how large networks such as the Internet are constructed. It will consider how non-numeric data is represented in computer systems. You will spend around five hours per week in tutorials, lectures and computer classes for this module.
Target Students
Qualifying year undergraduate students in the School of Computer Science only.This module is part of the Operating Systems and Networks theme in the School of Computer Science.
Classes
- One 1-hour lecture each week for 11 weeks
- One 2-hour lecture each week for 11 weeks
- One 2-hour computing each week for 11 weeks
Activities may take place every teaching week of the Semester or only in specified weeks. It is usually specified above if an activity only takes place in some weeks of a Semester
Assessment
- 75% Coursework: Programming exercise
- 25% Exam 1 (2-hour): 2 hrs written examination
Educational Aims
To give a deeper understanding of the internal operation and structure of computer and networks systems.To show how a computer is built up from a relatively simple digital circuit by successive elaboration to form a number of logical layers of functionality; to show that hardware and software are often equivalent in this context.To show how an Operating System is just software run by the CPU like any other software.To highlight the difference between single processor and parallel systems.To allow the student to appreciate the typical facilities and mechanisms which underlie the operation of various high-level programming operations and facilities.To allow the student to appreciate the key conceptual steps which underlie the evolution or realisation of a conventional stored-program digital computer.You will spend around five hours per week in tutorials, lectures and computer classes for this module.Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding:
To be able to understand simple assembly language programs.
To understand the major components (especially hardware) which make up a computer system.
To understand the major components (especially hardware) which make up a computer network.
Professional Skills
To be able to program in assembly language.
To be able to write a simple network sockets program.
Conveners
- Dr Hafeezullah Amin
- Mr Krishnan Selvaraj