CM1205: Architecture and Operating Systems
| School | Cardiff School of Computer Science and Informatics |
| Department Code | COMSC |
| Module Code | CM1205 |
| External Subject Code | 100735 |
| Number of Credits | 10 |
| Level | L4 |
| Language of Delivery | English |
| Module Leader | Dr Yipeng Qin |
| Semester | Spring Semester |
| Academic Year | 2020/1 |
Outline Description of Module
This module aims to give a broad understanding of the operation of modern computers. This will acquaint students with the general architecture of computers and introduce them to low-level programming using assembly language. It will also give an overview of the purpose and key features of modern operating systems, explaining some of the functionality that we take for granted in modern computer systems. The course draws examples from Windows, Linux and OS X.
On completion of the module a student should be able to
- Describe the main components of a computer system and their functionality
- Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental elements of assembly language
- Explain the need for process and memory management in an operating system, and contrast alternative management schemes
- Demonstrate an understanding of file and I/O systems in modern operating systems
- Contrast the implementation of commonly used operating systems
How the module will be delivered
Modules will be delivered through blended learning. You will be guided through learning activities appropriate to your module, which may include: • on-line resources that you work through at your own pace (e.g. videos, web resources, e-books, quizzes), • on-line interactive sessions to work with other students and staff (e.g. discussions, live streaming of presentations, live-coding, team meetings) • face to face small group sessions (e.g. help classes, feedback sessions)
Skills that will be practised and developed
Programming in 80x86 assembly language
How the module will be assessed
A blend of assessment types which may include coursework and portfolio assessments, class tests, and/or formal examinations.
Assessment Breakdown
| Type | % | Title | Duration(hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portfolio | 100 | Portfolio | N/A |
Syllabus content
Computer architecture: logic gates, binary representation, processors, memory, I/O
Assembly language
Process management
Memory management
I/O system
File systems
Essential Reading and Resource List
Please see Background Reading List for an indicative list.
Background Reading and Resource List
Linda Null, Julia Lobur, “The essentials of computer organization and architecture,” 4thbedition, Jones & Bartlett Learning, 2015
Rob Williams, “Computer Systems Architecture: A Networking Approach,” 2nd edition, Pearson Prentice Hall, 2006.
Abraham Silberschatz, Peter B. Galvin, Greg Gagne, “Operating System Concepts,” 9th edition, Wiley, 2014.
Andrew S. Tanenbaum, “Modern Operating Systems,” 4th edition, Pearson-Prentice Hall, 2014.