Topics covered include instruction pipelines and memory caches to improve computer performance; instruction-level parallelism; machines: superscalar versus VLIW; cache and main memory hierarchy design tradeoffs; compiler optimizations to speed pipelines; low-power computer system design: processor, OS, and compiler support; graphics, DSP, and media processor design; disk I/O system design; interconnections and networking; and introduction to parallel architecture. Advanced topics include asynchronous microprocessors; FPGA-based reconfigurable computing; system on a chip; embedded processors; intelligent RAM and superconducting computers.

• Provide a conceptual understanding of how computer hardware and software work.
• Introduce students to important classes of software applications such as text editors, spreadsheets, and databases.
• Explain the basic architecture and technologies of the Internet.

CSE502