Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On completion of the subject, students should understand how computers work in terms of their underlying machine model and how such a model can be implemented from simple components; and be able to write programs in machine language.
Synopsis The following topics are studied, with particular reference to commercially available processor architectures: processors, storage, stored problems, fetch-execute cycle, instructions, machine languages, assembly languages, compilation, architectural styles, program control, branching, selection, looping, machine operating, indirection, indexing, addressing modes, subroutines, and introduction to elements of operating systems such as DOS, Windows and UNIX. These topics are developed and reinforced through frequent programming exercises which illustrate the concepts.
Assessment Examination (3 hours): 70% + Mid-semester test (1 hour): 10% + Assignments: 10% + Practical examination: 10% + Compulsory laboratory classes: students must attend 80% of the laboratory classes to be permitted to sit the examinations