Introduction to Computer Systems

Course aim

To assist students in developing knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of computer systems, including number systems and codes, Boolean functions, logic operations and logic gates.

Course content

Evolution of computers and impact on society: different types of computers; essential parts of a computer. Language of computers: binary, octal and hexadecimal number systems; complements; signed binary numbers; decimal and binary codes; introduction to binary logic. Boolean algebra: basic definitions, theorems and properties of Boolean algebra; Boolean functions; logic operations, basic logic gates, truth tables. Simplification of Boolean functions: algebraic and Karnaugh map methods; don’t care condition; NAND and NOR implementation; exclusive-OR function. Simple combinational logic circuits: decoders, multiplexers and demultiplexers. Basic digital arithmetic building blocks. Flip-flops and simple sequential logic circuits: counters and registers. MSI Logic Circuits and Programmable Logic Devices.

Textbook(s)

Ronald J. Tocci, Neal S. Widmer and Gregory L. Moss 2011, Digital Systems: Principles and Applications, 11th edition, Pearson Higher Education, USA

Prerequisite(s)

Nil

Corequisite(s)

Nil

Teaching method

Component	Duration
INTERNAL, MAWSON LAKES
Lecture (introduce principles and concepts)	2 hours x 13 weeks
Tutorial (reinforce principles and concepts through problem solving and quiz)	2 hours x 12 weeks
Practical (develop practical skills in contsructing and testing simple logic circuits )	2 hours x 12 weeks
EXTERNAL, MAWSON LAKES, ONLINE
External	N/A x 13 weeks
Workshop (Compulsory attendance at Mawson Lakes Campus)	N/A x 3 days

Note: These components may or may not be scheduled in every study period. Please refer to the timetable for further details.

Assessment

Continuous assessment, Group work and individual report including Q&A session., Written examination

Fees

EFTSL*: 0.125
Commonwealth Supported program (Band 2)
To determine the fee for this course as part of a Commonwealth Supported program, go to:
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Fee-paying program for domestic and international students
International students and students undertaking this course as part of a postgraduate fee paying program must refer to the relevant program home page to determine the cost for undertaking this course.

Non-award enrolment
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* Equivalent Full Time Study Load. Please note: all EFTSL values are published and calculated at ten decimal places. Values are displayed to three decimal places for ease of interpretation.