An introduction to computer organization and architecture, using a common CPU architecture. Core topics: data representations and computer arithmetic, processor organization, the memory hierarchy and caching, instruction set and addressing modes, and quantitative performance evaluation of computing systems. Students will program in assembly and will evaluate simulated processor architectures.
Students wishing to complete CSC385H1 (Microprocessor Systems) should consider enrolling in CSC258H1 and/or to self-study the use of hardware design languages to create digital logic.
