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Computer Systems 1

Key information

  • Module code:

    4CCS1CS1

  • Level:

    4

  • Semester:

      Autumn

  • Credit value:

    15

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

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.

Subject areas

Department

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.