Includes discussions of processor types, buses, peripheral subsystems, microcode, instruction sets, operating systems characteristics, and interaction of operating systems with hardware. The objectives and methodologies of each layer are studied, with particular emphasis on the Datalink, Network, and Transport layers. Also explored are the various protocols for Local Area Networks and Wide Area Networks including wired and wireless solutions. Laboratory projects involve simulation and implementation of various aspects of inter-computer communication. Students are required to write a paper and present the findings on some of the latest network technologies.
Labs involve the use of a real-time operating system and an associated development environment.
System performance issues are also discussed. Major project included. The psychological, social, and technical aspects of interaction between humans and computers. Includes usability considerations, cognitive and perceptual issues, human information processing, and software development techniques for producing appropriate systems. Major project included.