CS2CA17-Computer Architecture and Networking

Module Provider: Computer Science
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer module
Pre-requisites: CS1PR16 Programming and CS1FC16 Fundamentals of Computer Science
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2020/1

Email: h.wei@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module introduces Computer Architecture, based on RISC/MIPS architecture, in the autumn term and  Computer Networking in the spring term.

Aims:

The module consists of two parts. The first part, Computer Architecture, provides students fundamental knowledge of modern computer architectures in terms of instruction set architecture, organisation and hardware; and the second part, Computer Networking introduces the theories underlying computer communications and show how these are applied in real world network applications.

This module also encourages students to develop a set of professional skills, such as problem solving, organisation and time management, creativity, numeracy, end-user awareness, and self-reflection.

Assessable learning outcomes:

Students who complete this module will have:

• basic skills for computer architecture design;

• ability to quantitatively evaluate computer performance by using benchmark suites;

• skills to improve computer performance by using hardware and software techniques;

• core concepts and knowledge of network architecture and communication protocols;

• ability to implement the concepts in real world network applications.

Additional outcomes:

ARM (RISC processor) assembly programming skills and insight of MIPS architecture can be obtained from laboratory practicals; programming skills are built into coursework assignments.

Outline content:

The module introduces the underlying theory of modern computer architecture in terms of instruction set architecture, organisation, and hardware. It begins with an introduction to the fundamentals of computer design for Von Neumann architecture, and continues with an examination of the components of processor, memory and input/output. DLX, which is an educational edition of MIPS and RISC architecture, is used as a model machine in teaching. An important theme is the relationship between archi tecture and performance. The module covers modern techniques for improving computer performance, such as instruction-level parallel processing (pipelining), and cache-memory-hierarchy design. The role of Input/Output in computer architecture with storage systems is also examined from the design point of view.

The core concepts of network architecture and communication protocols, which present in the framework of multi-tier architectures, are discusse d in the spring term. These include Local Area Networking (LAN) routing and Ethernet protocols; Internetworking; and error, congestion and flow control. The module covers network technologies ranging from local area networks to the Internet,  including Ethernet with a focus on TCP/IP, IP addressing, routing protocols, and congestion control schemes within the Internet. An introduction is also given to the core Internet applications, such as email, web serving and name resolution.