Course Overview

• Introduction

• Key Concepts: Information Systems and Information Technology (IS&IT)

• Aimed to provide practical knowledge for the IS&IT sector

• Delivery Format

  • Online classes via Brightspace/Teams, In-person classes weeks 6 & 13

  • Classes streamed live for remote students

  • Weekly worksheets for progress monitoring (not graded)

Course Details

• Enrollment

  • Access via Brightspace for resources

• Course Book

  • "The Architecture of Computer Hardware and Systems Software: An Information Technology Approach" by Irv Englander

Module Aims

• Provide background knowledge on modern computers' structure and operation

• Understand reasonable expectations from modern computers

Learning Outcomes

1. Identify major components of a general-purpose computer

2. Describe operation of a generic computer

3. Explain purpose and operation of operating systems

4. Differentiate various computer systems

5. Understand basic logic circuits

6. Work with number systems (binary, octal, hexadecimal)

Course Content

• History of computers, architectures

• Number Systems: Binary, hexadecimal, etc.

• Data Formats, Digital Logic, and Computer Hardware & Software

Assessment Structure

• Continuous Assessment: 30%

• Mid-term Assignment and Written Examination: 70%

• Passing criteria: Exam must be passed, combined total must exceed 40%

Relevance of Course

• Understanding computer operations is beneficial for various IT careers

• Fundamental architecture principles remain stable amidst rapid technological change

Evolution of Computer Systems

• Stages

  • Batch Systems, Multiprogramming, Multitasking, PCs, Multiprocessor Systems, Real-time, Distributed Systems, Mobile Computing

• Focus on improving CPU utilization and job switching efficiency

Modern Computer Systems

• Input-Process-Output (IPO) Model

  • Input: keyboard, mouse, scanner

  • Processing: CPU executes programs

  • Output: monitor, printer, etc.

  • Storage: HDD, SSD, cloud-based

Components of Computer Systems

• Hardware: Physical components for input/output and data processing

• Software: Programs that control hardware operations

• Architecture: CPU, Memory (RAM), System Bus, I/O devices, Storage

Fetch-Execute Cycle

• Process of executing program instructions

  1. Fetch: Retrieve instruction from memory

  2. Decode: Break down instruction for processing

  3. Execute: Complete the instruction with relevant circuitry

Summary of Fetch-Execute Cycle

• Instruction archiving process: Retrieve, store, decode, and execute instructions efficiently.