COMP06267 2018 Computer Systems
The goal of the module is to provide students with the necessary skills to understand the workings and architectures of the CPU and motherboard. To investigate the link between modern CPUs' and virtualisation and Cloud computing. To troubleshoot and repair a desktop computer system. To provide students with the necessary skills to manipulate number systems.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module the learner will/should be able to;
Describe and understand how to manipulate Number Systems.
Explain and describe the workings of Motherboards.
Establish knowledge on the workings of a CPU.
Demonstrate the workings of Main Memory.
Teaching and Learning Strategies
Simulation-based learning activities promote the exploration of Computing Hardware concepts and allow students to experiment with computer Hardware behaviour. Hands-on labs help students develop critical thinking and complex problem solving skills.
Module Assessment Strategies
Continuous assessment will take place in a laboratory environment employing simulation techniques as well as hands on testing using approved industry standard equipment and/or simulation software
Repeat Assessments
Autumn repeats and/or project work
Indicative Syllabus
1. Describe and understand how to manipulate Number Systems (Lo1)
• Explain how to convert to and from Decimal, Binary, Octal and Hexadecimal number systems.
2. Explain and describe the workings of Motherboards. (Lo2)
•· Identify various Microprocessor Classifications.
•· Comprehend how the components of the Motherboard functions.
•· Explain the structural function of modern motherboard expansion buses.
3. Establish knowledge on the workings of a CPU. (Lo 3)
•· Distinguish between the various characteristics of CPU chips.
•· Describe modern CPU architecture.
•Differentiate Intel and AMD CPU models.
• Explain the different technologies for improving performance, such as, multitasking, multiprocessing, multi-core, and cache
• Describe other CPU features such as clock speed, overclocking, power management, and VT.
• Describe characteristics and CPU compatibility of processor sockets
•· Expalin the components used for cooling (heat sinks and fans and liquid cooling systems)
•· Explain the CPU instructions sets.
•· Describe Intel Turbo Boost Technology
•· Explain the CPU components required for virtualization resource pools.
•· Explain the use of Hyper-Threading and its role for Cloud resource pools.
4. Demonstrate the workings of Main Memory. (Lo 4)
•· Describe the memory type’s e.g.-SDRAM, RDRAM, DDR/DDR2/DDR3/DDR4 etc.
• Identify DIMM and RIMM memory packaging for different technologies
• Explain the characteristics of different memory types (Double-sided, Dual Channel, ECC, and Registered)
•· Establish how to install RAM properly into motherboard.
•· Identify RAM problems and know how to troubleshoot and isolate the problem.
Coursework & Assessment Breakdown
Coursework Assessment
Title | Type | Form | Percent | Week | Learning Outcomes Assessed | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Practical | Coursework Assessment | Practical Evaluation | 20 % | Week 4 | 1,2 |
2 | Lab Book | Coursework Assessment | Practical Evaluation | 20 % | Week 13 | 1,2,3,4 |
3 | Practical | Coursework Assessment | Practical Evaluation | 20 % | Week 11 | 1,2,3,4 |
End of Semester / Year Assessment
Title | Type | Form | Percent | Week | Learning Outcomes Assessed | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Final Exam 2 hour final Exam | Final Exam | Closed Book Exam | 40 % | End of Semester | 1,2,3,4 |
Full Time Mode Workload
Type | Location | Description | Hours | Frequency | Avg Workload |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Practical / Laboratory | Computer Laboratory | Systems Practical | 2 | Weekly | 2.00 |
Lecture | Lecture Theatre | Lecture | 2 | Weekly | 2.00 |
Required & Recommended Book List
2012 CompTIA A Certification All-in-One Exam Guide, 8th Edition (Exams 220-801 :-:- 220-802) McGraw-Hill Osborne Media
2016-06-16 CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide, Premium Ninth Edition (Exams 220-901 & 220-902) with Online Performance-Based Simulations and Video Training McGraw-Hill Education
ISBN 1259836908 ISBN-13 9781259836909
Module Resources
None