One hour is spent in a class discussion about ethical issues in computer architecture. A short paper is assigned in which the student addresses current ethical issues including responsibilities of computer system designers, manufacturers and consumers. Approximately one-third of the course is an introduction to the algorithms relevant to computer architecture. Algorithms considering the operating, updating and communication between computer components are analyzed. Techniques are developed to quantitatively describe computer performance.
Students assess the influence of design decisions on the performance of a computer system.
Students participate in design exercises in class and in written homework assignments.