Computer Architecture

Objectives

Identify the key components of a computer architecture and its role in the set.

Identify the key components of a processor and its role in the set, designing the fundamental components of na elementary processor.

Programming a computer using an Assembly language.

Applying the concept of interrupt, namely in data transfer operations.

Choose the appropriate external interface for the connection to a peripheral.

Using a hierarchical memory in the context of computer architectures.

Identify the inherent advantages and limitations in the operation of a computer developments arising from the evolution in relation to the original architecture.

Program

Architecture and organization of a computer: main components - von Neumann model; history and evolution of computers.

Central processing unit (CPU) registers and functional units, instruction execution by interrupts, pipelining and parallelism.

Control Unit: functions, implementations and components; microprogramming.

Processor architectures: RISC and CISC

Memory: internal - cache and RAM; external - magnetic and optical disks.

Buses: types, structure, hierarchy, timing; implementation examples.

Inputs and outputs: modules and techniques; external interfaces - communication with peripherals.

Assembly language: methodology; instructions and data types, data input and output, addressing modes, arithmetic and logical operations, control structures.

Teaching Methodologies

Lectures

Exposure of the concepts and presentation of examples; solving theoretical and practical exercises.

Performing diagnostic tests at the end of each chapter.

Laboratory classes

Assembly of components on a computer and connecting peripherals.

Construction of language programs "assembly", using a tool for coding and testing programs in language "assembly" in particular.

Using learning management system Moodle, where resources are available and various activities to supplement classroom.

Bibliography

Abel, P. (2001) IBM PC Assembly Language and Programming, 5th ed., Prentice-Hall.

Delgado, J. e Ribeiro, C. (2007) Arquitectura de Computadores, FCA.

Hennessy, J. et al. (2005), Computer Organization and Design, 3th ed., Morgan Kaufmann.

Stallings, W. (2003) Computer Organization and Architecture, 6th ed., Prentice-Hall.

Tanenbaum, S. Andrew (2006) Structured Computer Organization, 5th ed., Prentice-Hall.