Semester.ly

Johns Hopkins University | EN.520.222

Computer Architecture

3.0

credits

Average Course Rating

(4.42)

A study of the structure and organization of classical von Neuman uniprocessor computers. Topics include a brief history of modern machines starting from the Turing computer model, instruction sets, addressing, RISC versus CICS, traps and interrupt handling, twos complement arithmetic, adders and ALUs, CSA's Booth's algorithm, multiplication and division, control unit design, microprogramming, dynamic versus static linking, memory systems and memory hierarchy, paging segmentation, cache hardware, cache organizations, and replacement policies.

Spring 2013

(4.2)

Spring 2014

(4.06)

Spring 2015

(5.0)

Spring 2013

Professor: Robert Jenkins

(4.2)

The best aspects of this course included the thorough notes provided by the instructor and the intriguing material. Also, students appreciated the implementation of a grading curve since the exams were difficult. Some students felt the instructor should have been more explicit in explaining the “how” 102 associated with the problems discussed in class. Suggestions included incorporating animations into the classroom notes and assigning more practice problems. Prospective students should know that background knowledge in CPU architecture is very beneficial, but not mandatory.

Spring 2014

Professor: Robert Jenkins

(4.06)

This class was highlighted by an enthusiastic and knowledgeable instructor, interesting material, and comprehensive explanations of difficult topics. Many students thought the chal enges and rewards of this course were well worth the struggle. The worst aspects of the course were the difficult exams and the very perplexing material. Much of the material is theoretical and abstract, and homework can be vague. Suggestions to improve the class included more hands on examples, a better text book, and more comprehensive lecture notes. Prospective students should know the material is chal enging and you should study regularly to retain the information. This is not an easy class by any means, but it is fascinating and integral if you plan to go into computer engineering.

Spring 2015

Professor: Robert Jenkins

(5.0)

The best aspect of this course was the knowledgeable and personable professor who gave clear explanations and tailored assignments to enforce concepts learned. Students felt that the course was difficult and math intensive. Suggestions for improvement included having homework questions reflect the exam, posting lecture notes on Blackboard, providing real world examples related to concepts, hiring a TA for the course, and working through more problem sets in class. Prospective students should be prepared for a challenging course and be comfortable with linear algebra, differential equations, and signals and systems. Prospective students are encouraged to attend lecture, seek help when needed, and solve many practice problems outside of class.