Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives The student is expected to develop understanding and practical skills in interconnecting microprocessors and other computer system components and in interfacing computer systems to external devices. The student should acquire an awareness of practical considerations related to the use of common logic families and a basic knowledge of the process of nMOS VLSI fabrication.
Synopsis Logic circuit design techniques applied to integrated circuit systems including microcomputers. Computer organisation. Assembly language programming for the 8086. Input/output structures and techniques: addressing, timing and control including interrupt structures. Microprocessor interfacing including memory. Logic family design and implementation: TTL, ECL and CMOS. Timing constraints, clock skew and synchronisation failure. An introduction to nMOS VLSI design.
Assessment Examination (2 hours): 80% + Laboratory work: 20%