Digital Computer Systems

Learning Outcomes

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Design a combinatorial circuit to perform a given function
• Extract simple input/output requirements for a problem with internal state
• Discuss the sustainability implications of constructing single-use custom products versus re-usable off-the-shelf solutions.
• Explain the difference between a custom circuit and a CPU solution

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• Describe how a simple CPU is constructed from combinatorial and sequential logic
• Predict the output of sequential digital circuits given an input sequence
• Map integer arithmetic into combinatorial logic and bit-wise representations

Subject Specific Practical Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Implement arithmetic and logic circuits using digital logic
• Use a hardware description language to create finite-state machines
• Construct a simple CPU that interfaces with combinatorial memory

Combinatorial logic:

• Binary logic and primitive logic gates
• Truth tables and circuit design

Arithmetic:

• Number representations
• Addition
• Multiplication
• ALUs

Sequential logic:

• Clocks, latches, flip-flops
• Finite state-machines
• RAMs, ROMs, and FIFOs

Practical circuits:

• Logic-levels
• Timing
• FPGA implementation using Verilog

Introduction to CPUs:

• Instructions
• Address spaces and buses
• Minimal instruction processor
• Intro to assembly

The module consists of:

• Lectures
• Guided self-study
• Labs as part of the AICE Lab Programme which will cover practical aspects

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.