Introduction to Computer Architecture

Course code CMPT 2295

Credit 3.0

Length 60.0 hours

Course outline View

This course introduces students to computer system design and architecture and low-level programming. This course covers fundamental aspects of computer system design and the relationship between the computer architecture (hardware) and computer programs (software). Topics include number representations, digital systems, building blocks in a computer, CPU organization, bus structures, addressing modes, memory managements, computer interfacing, low-level-programming and system software. Students will be able to apply principles and concepts to improve program efficiency and runtime. Programs will be written in C and x86-64 assembly languages.

Prerequisites

CMPT 1020 with a 'C' and MATH 1120 with a 'C'.

Missing prerequisites?

Learn more about VCC's academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.

What you will learn

  • Information Representation in Computers
    Number Systems
    Signed and Unsigned Integers
    Bit Level Manipulation
    Floating Point Numbers
    Machine Level Programming
    CPU Structure
    CPU Registers
    Arithmetic and Logical Operations
    Bus Systems
    Control Structures
    Stack Structure
    Calling Conventions: Passing Control and Data
    Memory Organization
    Memory Technology
    Memory Layout
    Virtual Memory and Address Translation
    Exceptional control flow
    Interrupts
    I/O programming and interfacing
    Multi-tasking
    Parallel Computing

How to register

This course is offered as part of a VCC program only.

Course schedules

Select your program to see the available course schedules.

Contact us

If you have any question, please email at advising@vcc.ca.

† This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.

Indigenous Territory Acknowledgment

VCC is located on the traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples, and we acknowledge our privilege to be here.