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605.204 - Computer Organization Course Homepage

Instructor Information

Michael White

Email: Michael.j.white@jhuapl.edu
Work Phone: (443) 778-4539

Course Information

Course Description

605.204 Computer Organization This course examines how a computer operates at the machine level. Students will develop an understanding of the hardware/software interface by studying the design and operation of computing system components. In addition, students will program at the assembly language level to understand internal system functionality. Finally, students will become familiar with the machine representations of programs and data as well as the influence of the underlying hardware system on the design of systems software such as operating systems, compilers, assemblers, and linkers and loaders. (Not for Graduate credit)

Prerequisites

605.202 Data Structures is recommended.

Course Goal

The goal of the course is to provide the student with a fundamental understanding of how a computer works.  A detailed examination of the one-pass and two-pass assembly process is given followed by a study of program relocation and overlay techniques. A discussion of system programs such as linkers and loaders is provided. Advanced assembly language processing, such as macros and conditional assembly, will be covered. The compilation process is examined using a Pascal like language and a general introduction to operating system concepts is provided.

Course Objectives

  • Understand the composition and structure of a computer.
  • Learn the basics of assemblers and their role with the computer.
  • Learn the basics of developing a high level language.
  • Understand operting systems and how they work with the computer.

When This Course is Typically Offered

This course is offered in the Spring at the APL center.

Syllabus

Topics Covered

  • Assemblers
  • Linkers/Loaders
  • Macro-Assemblers
  • High Level Languages
  • Operating Systems

Student Assessment Criteria

Homework (7 assignments) 40%
Exams (3) 60%

Homwork assignments must be turned in by the due date.  Receipt of homework assignments after the answer key is handed out will result in a grade of 0.  Homework and exams will not be graded on a curve.  Students are expected to follow the lectures and read the text.

Computer and Technical Requirements

You should have previous experience in some high level language but you need no prior knowledge of assembly language

Participation Expectations

Questions and class discussions are encouraged. No presentations or papers will be required.  It is extremely helpful if students have read the assignment prior to attending class.

Textbooks

Textbook information for this course is available online through the MBS Direct Virtual Bookstore.

Course Notes

There are notes for this course.

(Last Modified: 01-27-2009 at 12:47:46 PM)