COMP 239 Computer Organization

This course covers the basics of how a computer works, focusing especially on the hardware-software interface. Students will learn about the limitations of the physical computer, and that it may not be possible to ignore the lower-level hardware when designing efficient software.  Students will learn to implement programs in Assembly language and C/C++.  They will investigate the main components of the computer and it's processor and master the binary language of computers. They will learn important design concepts such as memory hierarchy and parallel computing, and have a brief encounter with principles of digital logic.  This is a required course for the Computer Science major.  Includes one 1.5 hour lab period per week.