Computer Hardware Principles

lsinc1102  2024-2025  Charleroi

Computer Hardware Principles
5.00 credits
30.0 h + 30.0 h
Q2
> Schedule

  This learning unit is not open to incoming exchange students!

Teacher(s)
Andraud Martin (compensates Bonaventure Olivier); Bonaventure Olivier; Van den Schrieck Virginie (compensates Bonaventure Olivier);
Language
French
Main themes
The course aims to introduce students to the operating principles of computers to enable them to understand how their programs are executed on a simple computer.
  •     Representation of information in binary form (integer and real numbers, characters, etc.)
  •     Combinatorial logic (logic gates, construction of simple circuits)
  •     Memory management (RAM, ROM, …)
  •     Synchronous digital circuits and role of the clock
  •     Construction of a simple microprocessor
  •     Inputs-Outputs and storage devices
  •     assembly language
Learning outcomes

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :

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  • Describe the main components of a computer and their role
  • Explain how information and programs are represented in memory
  • Design a small logic circuit implementing a simple combinatorial function
  • Read and write simple assembly programs
 
Content
  • Representation of information in binary form (integer and real numbers, characters, etc.)
  • Combinatorial logic (logic gates, construction of simple circuits)
  • Memory management (RAM, ROM, …)
  • Synchronous digital circuits and role of the clock
  • Construction of a simple microprocessor
  • Inputs-Outputs and storage devices
  • assembly language
Teaching methods
  • Lecture
  • Exercise sessions
  • Mini-projects for building the main components of a computer
Evaluation methods
First session
 
The final grade is equally split: 50% for the "assembly part" 50% for the "electronics part". 
 
For the assembly part, the grade is calculated based on:
  • A written exam mid-semester
  • A continuous evaluation during lectures
  • Students obtaining 10/20 or more at the mid-semester exam will not have to do this part of the exam again. Others can redo this part in the end of the semester. 
The electronic part will be evaluated only with a final exam.
 
 
Second session
  • Written exam only (the continuous evaluation does not count anymore), with 50% weight for each part.
Bonus points are available for students actively participating in improving the pedagogical support.
The use of generative AI tools is forbidden for redacting reports and generate source code in this course. Also, external information sources must be always cited, respecting bibiligraphical referencing norms. 
 
Online resources
Bibliography
 The Elements of Computing Systems, By Noam Nisan and Shimon Schocken (MIT Press)
Notes de cours, disponibles via https://sites.uclouvain.be/LSINC1102/pfo/
Teaching materials
  • Notes du cours LSINC1102: Principes de fonctionnement des ordinateurs
Faculty or entity
> SINC


Programmes / formations proposant cette unité d'enseignement (UE)

Title of the programme
Sigle
Credits
Prerequisites
Learning outcomes
Bachelor in Computer Science
SINC1BA
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