COMUPTER ORGANIZATION AND ARCHITECTURE

          Computer Organization and Architecture

Course code: 24ECSC201

Course Instructor: Prof. Niranjan . Muchandi

Credits: 4

Course Introduction:

Overview:
Computer Organization and Architecture (COA) is a fundamental course in computer science and engineering that bridges the gap between hardware and software. It delves into the internal mechanisms of computers, providing a comprehensive understanding of how hardware components interact to execute software instructions. This course aims to equip students with the knowledge needed to design, analyze, and optimize computing systems, ensuring a solid foundation for more advanced topics in computer science.

Key Themes and Objectives:
The primary goal of this course is to provide students with a clear understanding of the operational principles and architectural design of modern computers. Some key themes include:

1. Understanding Computer Systems: Learn the basic structure of a computer system, including the central processing unit (CPU), memory hierarchy, and input/output devices.

2. Instruction Sets and Programming: Explore machine-level representation of instructions, addressing modes, and how programs interact with the hardware.

3. Performance Optimization: Study techniques for improving system performance, including pipelining, caching, and parallel processing.

4. Digital Logic Design: Gain foundational knowledge of logic gates, combinational circuits, and sequential circuits that form the basis of computer hardware.

5. Memory Hierarchy and Management: Understand the organization of primary, secondary, and tertiary storage systems, along with cache and virtual memory.

6. Input/Output Organization: Investigate how computers interface with peripheral devices and manage data flow between the CPU and external hardware.

Why Study Computer Organization and Architecture?

1. Foundation for Advanced Topics: COA forms the backbone for advanced courses such as operating systems, computer networks, and embedded systems.

2. Problem-Solving Skills: Understanding how hardware executes instructions allows for better debugging and optimization of software.

3. Hardware-Software Interaction: Gain insights into the synergy between hardware and software, which is critical for system design and engineering.

4. Career Relevance: Proficiency in computer architecture is essential for roles in hardware engineering, embedded systems, and performance optimization.

Course Structure:

1. Introduction to Computing Systems

   • Evolution of computers

   • Basic organization of a computer

   • Von Neumann architecture

2. Digital Logic Fundamentals

   • Binary systems and number representations

   • Boolean algebra and logic gates

   • Design of combinational and sequential circuits

3. Processor Architecture and Instruction Set Design

   • CPU structure and functions

   • Types of instruction sets (CISC vs. RISC)

   • Microprogramming and hardwired control

4. Memory Systems

   • Cache memory and mapping techniques

   • Main memory organization

   • Virtual memory and paging

5. Input/Output Systems

   • Interrupts and direct memory access (DMA)

   • Peripheral device interfacing

   • I/O standards and protocols

6. Performance Enhancement Techniques

   • Pipelining: principles and hazards

   • Superscalar and vector processors

   • Parallel and distributed computing

7. Emerging Trends in Computer Architecture

   • Multi-core processors

   • Graphics Processing Units (GPUs)

   • Quantum and neuromorphic computing

Course Outcomes (COs):

• Comprehend the structure and operation of modern computing systems.

• Analyze the impact of architectural decisions on system performance.

• Design basic hardware components and evaluate their functionality.

• Optimize programs with an understanding of hardware constraints.

Conclusion:
Computer Organization and Architecture is a cornerstone of computer science education, providing the technical knowledge required to understand, design, and improve computing systems. It not only enhances theoretical understanding but also fosters practical skills, preparing students for challenges in both academia and industry. This course serves as the gateway to becoming proficient in both hardware and software domains, ensuring a holistic grasp of computer science.