How Computers Function

Course Number: 766

This course covers the function and basic operation of each major element of a microprocessor—the central processing unit, the arithmetic and logic unit, the registers, the clock, etc. It explains the structure and purpose of various computer buses and examines characteristics of different types of main memory in detail. It includes an in-depth discussion of both low-level computer languages (machine language, assembly language) and high-level computer languages (BASIC, FORTRAN, COBOL, and so on).

Recommended Contact Hours - 8

Chapter 1: Microprocessor Structure

Topics: CPU; Microcontrollers; Program counter; Branching; Instruction decoders; Subroutines; Stack pointer; ALU; Status bits; System clocks

Learning Objectives:

• Describe the types of microprocessor elements and their functions.
• Describe the types of registers that a microprocessor system typically has.
• Identify the different types of microprocessor clocks and their functions.
• Describe typical microprocessor bus systems.

Chapter 2: Bus Structures

Topics: Bus system block diagrams and schematics; Backplanes; Data, address, control, and serial buses; Multiplexing; Bus drivers and standards

Learning Objectives:

• Identify the different types of microprocessor buses.
• Discuss the functions of the different microprocessor system buses.
• Describe the functions of the bus drivers.
• Identify the various industry standards for microprocessor system buses.

Chapter 3: Memory Devices

Topics: Main memory; Memory-CPU communication; Expanding memories; Memory characteristics

Learning Objectives:

• Discuss the various types of memories and their characteristics.
• Describe the different ways in which the CPU and memory communicate.
• Explain how single-chip memories are organized.
• Describe different memory-expanding characteristics necessary for microprocessor systems.

Chapter 4: Low-Level Computer Languages

Topics: Data representation; Programming models; Operation codes; Addressing modes; Data-handling instructions; Interrupts; Memory-mapped I/O

Learning Objectives:

• Identify the three levels of computer programming languages.
• Define programming models and memory maps.
• Discuss the purpose and function of operation codes.
• Describe addressing modes as they relate to operation codes.
• Explain what machine language and assembly languages are and how they work.

Chapter 5: High-Level Computer Languages

Topics: Pros and cons of high-level languages; Compilers; Interpreters; Operating systems; Debuggers

Learning Objectives:

• Describe the characteristics and uses of high-level languages.
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of several popular high-level languages.
• Explain how compilers and interpreters work.
• Describe the functions of an operating system.