Module description
This module provides an introduction to single machine organisation, architecture and operation.
On successful completion of this module, students will:
Be able to:
- Explain how instructions get executed in a sequential processor
- Perform arithmetic operations in binary and conversions between number systems
- Compose and analyse small assembly-language programs
- Explain and illustrate memory concepts and performance improvement measures
Syllabus
An indication of the types of topics:
Computer system organization (introducing pointers to further topics):
- Processor data path
- Memory organization overview
- Input/Output
- Communication
- Performance measures
Computer Arithmetic:
- Number systems (decimal, binary, octal, hexadecimal) and conversions from one to others
- Signed and unsigned numbers, floating point numbers
- Addition, subtraction, s+m, 1's complement, 2's complement, excess systems
- Logical operations
Assembly Level Programs:
- Instruction formats
- Addressing modes
- Instruction types
- Flow of control
Improving performance:
- Instruction level parallelism
- Processor level parallelism
The Memory Hierarchy:
- Cache memory
- Virtual memory
- Effective access time
Assessment details
Assessment details
Please note: The below assessment details for the 2024/25 academic year may be updated. The confirmed details will be available on the Student Handbook and on the module KEATS page at the beginning of the semester.
Semester 1 only study abroad students will be required to take this exam in an alternative assessment format in the January exam period.
Full year study abroad students will be required to take this exam in person in January.