Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2020 - CMPT 295 D200

Introduction to Computer Systems (3)

Class Number: 6668

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2020: Mon, Wed, Fri, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
    Surrey

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 22, 2020
    Wed, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    Either (MACM 101 and ((CMPT 125 and CMPT 127) or CMPT 135)) or (MATH 151 and CMPT 102 for students in an Applied Physics program).

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

The curriculum introduces students to topics in computer architecture that are considered fundamental to an understanding of the digital systems underpinnings of computer systems. Students with credits for CMPT 150 or 250 may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

This introduction to computer systems provides students with some of the basic principles and concepts that underpin the design of computer hardware and systems software. It provides a basis for topics such as computer architecture, operating systems, data communications, and database design. An understanding of how instructions are executed and how data types are interpreted by computer hardware can also help students improve the performance and the reliability of the programs they write.

Topics

  • Representation of symbolic and numeric data
  • Representation of instructions (instruction set architecture)
  • Machine language programs
  • Basic digital systems
  • CPU organization
  • Memory organization
  • Threads and synchronization (time permitting)

Grading

NOTES:

There will be assignments/labs, one or two midterms, and a final examination. Details will be confirmed during the first week of lectures.

Students must attain an overall passing grade on the weighted average of exams in the course in order to obtain a clear pass (C- or better).

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

 

  • REFERENCE BOOKS:
  • EITHER THIS ONE: Computer Systems MasteringEngineering with Pearson eText -- Standalone Access Card -- for Computer Systems: A Programmer's Perspective, 3/E, Randal E. Bryant, David R. O'Halloran, Pearson, 2016, 9780134071923, (Etext version)
  • OR THIS ONE: Computer Systems: A Programmer's Perspective, 3/E, Randal E. Bryant, David R. O'Halloran, Pearson, 2016, 9780134092669, (Hardcopy version)

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS