Computer Science (COMP) 503

Overview

This course provides a background in hardware and software technology that will enable systems development personnel to understand the trade offs in computer architecture for effective use in a business or scientific environment. The course will explain system architecture for single-user, central, and networked computing systems; and single- and multi-user operating systems.

Course Objectives

After completing this course, the student should be able to:

• understand general computer organization.
• understand basic microprocessor architecture and assembly language;
• understand operating system internals.

Outline

• Unit 1: Overview
• Unit 2: Process Management
• Unit 3: Storage Management
• Unit 4: Protection and Security
• Unit 5: CPU Architecture

Learning Outcomes

In COMP503, the learner will

• know modern computer architecture components;
• begin to write Assembly Language programs;
• obtain detailed knowledge about the internals of single-user and multi-user operating systems.

Evaluation

In order to receive credit for COMP 503, you must achieve a cumulative course grade of "B-" (70 percent) or better, and must achieve an average grade of at least 60 percent on the assignments and achieve a grade of at least 60 percent on the Final Examination. Your cumulative course grade will be based on the following assessment.

The final examination for this course must be taken online with an AU-approved exam invigilator at an approved invigilation centre. It is your responsibility to ensure your chosen invigilation centre can accommodate online exams. For a list of invigilators who can accommodate online exams, visit the Exam Invigilation Network.