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 or CS1PC20 Programming in C/C++ and CS1FC16 Fundamentals of Computer Science
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Hong Wei
Email: h.wei@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

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

Aims:

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

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:

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


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


• 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.

Additional outcomes:

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

Outline content:

The core concepts of network architecture and communication protocols, which present in the framework of multi-tier architectures, are discussed in the autumn 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.

In the spring term, 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 architecture 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.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Lectures supported by laboratory practicals and a number of assignments.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	16	16	2
Practicals classes and workshops	8	8
Guided independent study:	75	75
Total hours by term	99	99	2
Total hours for module	200

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	70
Set exercise	30

Summative assessment- Examinations:
One 3-hour examination paper in May/June.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

One lab-based coursework (15%) for computer networking, and two on-line tests (each 7.5%) for computer architecture.

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 40% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:

One 3-hour examination paper in August/September . Note that the resit module mark will be the higher of (a) the mark from this resit exam and (b) an average of this resit exam mark and previous coursework marks, weighted as per the first attempt (70% exam, 30% coursework).

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books:  None

2) Specialist equipment or materials:  None

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:  None

4) Printing and binding:  None

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:  None

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:  None

Last updated: 30 March 2023