Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives Students completing this subject should understand in general terms how computer hardware functions; understand how computer software interfaces with the hardware; and be able to make effective use of features of C++ designed for low-level programming and interfacing with computer hardware.
Synopsis Components of a computer system: processors, memory, secondary storage devices and media, other input and output devices. Processor organisation: registers, buses, multiplexers, decoders, ALUs, clocks, main memory, caches. Microprogramming. Von Neumann architecture, the conventional machine level: instruction types and formats, addressing modes, flow of control. Data transfers: DMA, interrupts and programmed I/O. Parallel machine architectures: multiprocessors, special purpose systems. Programming techniques for low-level operations. Access to the university's computer systems via modem is compulsory for distance education students.
Assessment Examination (3 hours): 100%