CS1S465 - Computer Systems Concepts 01 Sep 2022 - 31 Aug 2028 | Version 6

Associated Module Information

Module Code: CS1S465
Module Title: Computer Systems Concepts
Faculty: Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science
Faculty Group: Computing and Mathematical Sciences
Faculty Sub Group: Computer Science
Module Leader: Christopher Tubb
Module Team: Jennifer Whewell
First Intended Intake: SEP 2016 Final Year of Intake:
Date Closed:
Credit Value: 20 Credit Level: 4
Language: English
Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: 0
Equivalent Module:
HECOS codes: 100734 - computer architectures
HECOS Code Weighting: 100

Document Version Information

Version 6
Valid From 01 Sep 2022
Valid To 31 Aug 2028

Module Aims

To develop an understanding of the fundamental organisation, architecture, and connectivity of computer systems.

Content Summary

Number systems.
Data representation.
Digital Logic

  • Boolean Algebra
  • De Morgan’s theory
  • Truth Tables

Computer system organisation overview:

  • The Von Neumann architecture
  • system components
  • processors
  • memory
  • primary storage
  • secondary storage
  • operating systems

Processor operation:

  • architecture
  • fetch-execute cycle
  • control flow
  • addressing modes
  • instruction formats
  • system calls

Assemblers, Interpreters and Compilers

  • Low level programming

Networks:

  • physical and logical structures
  • addresses (IP v4, Subnet masks and IP v6)
  • models (TCP/IP and OSI) and their layers
  • devices and cabling
  • wireless
  • security and encryption

Learning and Teaching Methods

Activity Type Hours
Lecture 24
Practical classes and workshops 24
Independent Study 76
Directed Study 52
Formative Assessment - Independent 24
Total Hours Selected 200

Learning Outcomes

# Learning Outcome
LO1 Demonstrate knowledge of key theoretical principles of computer systems.
LO2 Apply knowledge of computer system concepts to the completion of related practical tasks.

Module Requisites

N/A

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Category Assessment Type Description Duration Word Count Weight (%) Best of? Pass Mark
Asynchronous Assessment Student Choice 1 A specific range of assessment types are offered in order to complete the required task (e.g. essay, report, presentation). The student makes a choice as to which type they use for the assessment.? The criteria are the same whichever type of assessment the student chooses.? One mark is awarded. 15 2000 50 No 40
Asynchronous Assessment Practical Written Work 1 A write up of a piece of practical work that has been undertaken. 0 2000 50 No 40

Assessment Matrix

Assessment Type Learning Outcomes
LO1 LO2
Student Choice 1
Practical Written Work 1

Reading List

The elements of computing systems: building a modern computer from first principles. Nisan, N.; Schocken, S. 2nd Edition (2021) The MIT Press ISBN 978-0262539807

The Architecture of Computer Hardware, Systems Software, and Networking: An Information Technology Approach, 6th Edition. Englander I., Wong W., ‎ Wiley, ISBN 978-1119495208