Computer Organization is a fundamental course that explores the internal structure and operational principles of modern computing systems. It serves as a bridge between theoretical computer science and practical hardware implementation, providing students with a deeper understanding of how computers process information at a low level. The course is designed to equip students with essential knowledge of how hardware components interact to execute software instructions efficiently.
The course covers several key topics, including the fundamentals of computer systems, where students learn about the basic components of a computer and their roles. It then delves into processor structure and function, examining how central processing units (CPUs) interpret and execute instructions. Additionally, the course explores memory system organization and architecture, discussing different types of memory, their hierarchy, and their impact on system performance. Students will also gain insight into input/output (I/O) fundamentals, including data transfer mechanisms and device communication, as well as an introduction to basic I/O controllers, which manage interactions between peripherals and the processor.
As a core component of the computer science program, this course complements subjects such as computer architecture, operating systems, and embedded systems. It is ideal for students pursuing careers in software development, hardware design, cybersecurity, and systems engineering. By taking this course, students gain valuable insights into the inner workings of computers, which enhances their ability to optimize software performance, troubleshoot hardware issues, and design efficient computing solutions.
- Lecturer: Bostley Asenahabi