Computer Architecture, CSCI 312, Section 1

Welcome to CSCI 312, section 1, Fall 2018. In this class we will study the basics of the structure and organization of computers. We will discuss the fundamental digital logic and the elements from which basic circuits are constructed and examine how computations are performed using this logic. We will discuss data representation and storage at the lowest level.

We will discuss the construction and operation of a simple CPU, memory unit and device buses. Other discussions will include the basics of Digital Logic, Data Representation, and Memory. We will investigate the connection between Instruction Set Architecture and hardware implementation.

As part of this investigation we will study the MIPS assembly language. You will be writing programs in this language throughout the semester.

This course will be a combination of mathematics, computer engineering and computer science. Students are encouraged to:

• Attend class regularly.
• Read the book.
• Ask questions.
• Experiment.

To assist you in this class we will be using a series of different software products. I will do my best to insure that all of these products are available to in you in Ross 137. Students who do not wish to use this lab will need to make sure that these tools are supported where they wish to work.

This software includes, but is not limited to:

• Digital a java based circuit simulation software.
• MARS- a java based MIPS simulator.
• Wombat, a simulation environment that we will use.

This class meets TR 9:30 to 10:45 in Ross Hall room 135.

Announcements:

• I am the instructor of record for this class. Only the instructor of record can properly grade coursework and issue midterm and final grades.