A CLASS-TEST length .83 HOUR(S) weighted at 25%.
A CLASS-TEST - SECOND CLASS TEST length .83 HOUR(S) weighted at 25%.
A EXAMINATION - UNSEEN IN EXAMINATION CONDITIONS length 2 HOUR(S) weighted at 50%.
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On completing the module you should be able, at an appropriate level of detail consistent with the level of the module, to:
1. Explain the structure and function of a modern PC based operating system and use its facilities to support the other objectives of this module
2. Explain the structure and function of language processing systems
3. Use a high level language to produce simple system software and apply this in support of the other objectives of the module
4. Explain the structure and function of modem inter and intra network systems and use their facilities to support the other objectives of the module
5. Explain the role and operation of the basic building blocks of a modern PC based system including peripherals
6. Explain the principles that underlie the representation of data and instructions in a computer system
7. Explain the operation of simple logic gate circuits

This module will also give you opportunity to demonstrate the following skills:

(a) An understanding of a specific body of knowledge and skills
(b) Analyse
(c) Application of number appropriate to discipline or career needs

- simple logic gates
- instruction and data representation at the hardware level
- structure and operation of hardware components of a typical modern PC - from processors to secondary storage and I/O devices.
- structure and function of network hardware from modems to gateways
- elementary concepts of data communication and the role of protocols, with reference to the Internet as a motivating example
- structure and roles of a modern PC based operating system e.g. Windows NT - introduction to central concepts of operating system as resource manager
- language translation, interpretation, virtual machines and platform independence e.g. Java VM and run time environment

1. Coursework test (25%) (Learning outcomes 5, 6, 7, a, b and c)
2. Coursework test (25%) (Learning outcomes 1, 2 and 3, a,b)
3. Exam (50%) (Learning outcomes 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, a, b and c)

Englander, I, The Architecture of computer Hardware and System Software (2nd edition), 2000. (essential reading).
Burd, S D, Systems Architecture, ITP, 1999. (Additional reading).

IBM PCs with Windows and Java programming environment.

Lectures, tutorials, practicals and directed reading. The practical and tutorial exercises will normally require time devoted to their completion outside of the direct class contact hours. The typical pattern of study will be 1 lecture per week with either 1 tutorial or 1 practical session. Normally, the first 12 weeks will contain the 12 tutorials with the second 12 weeks containing the 12 practical sessions.

Within this module you will be introduced to and/or be able to develop your
- Intellectual skills
- Communication
- Problem solving
- Application of number