Computer Science 163 - Computer Architecture

This course will provide an introduction to basic computer systems architecture, stressing how computers work. Beginning with Boolean logic and the design of combinational and sequential circuits, the course will develop the design of memory and processing hardware, including the structure and interpretation of machine instructions and assembly languages, with a focus on datapath and control for classic processor architectures and for modern pipelined architectures. Projects will include the design of digital circuits and basic processor structures.

Requisite: COSC 111 or prior programming experience. Open only to Amherst College students. Limited to 40 students per section (20 per lab). Fall semester: Professor Kaplan.