Module Details

Module Code: COMP
Module Title: Computer Architecture for Game Devices
Title: Computer Architecture for Game Devices
Module Level:: 6
Credits:: 5
Module Coordinator: Nigel Whyte
Module Author:: Philip Bourke
Domains:  
Module Description: Explore the structure, role and function of components that constitute a computer system.

Examine the architecture of a computer system including constituent components, buses, memory and CPU.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Identify the architectural components of a computer, and understand the role of each component and inter-connector
LO2 Understand and differentiate between hardware, software and firmware
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Additional Requisite Information
No Co Requisites listed
 
Indicative Content
Number Systems and Data Representation
Understanding and using numbers expressed in different bases. Unsigned and signed data types, addition and subtraction, floating-point representation, precision and accuracy and character storage ASCII and Floating Points
Logic
Logic, Logic Gates and Circuits Flip flops, Adders and Decoders Analogue/Digital; Switching elements; Logic gates; Logic circuits, types and examples.
Software Models
Introduction to the layers of software / firmware architecture
Memory
RAM / ROM, Primary memory: organisation and operation; cache. Computer memory: Types, costs, organization and operation, speed. Data storage devices
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Project30.00%
Practical20.00%
End of Module Formal Examination50.00%

Assessments

Full Time

No Continuous Assessment
Project
Assessment Type Project % of Total Mark 30
Timing Week 22 Learning Outcomes  
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
Logic Circuit
Practical
Assessment Type Practical/Skills Evaluation % of Total Mark 20
Timing Every Week Learning Outcomes 1,2
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
Laboratory based practicals
End of Module Formal Examination
Assessment Type Formal Exam % of Total Mark 50
Timing End-of-Semester Learning Outcomes 1,2
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
No Description
Reassessment Requirement
Repeat examination
Reassessment of this module will consist of a repeat examination. It is possible that there will also be a requirement to be reassessed in a coursework element.
Reassessment Description
Decided by module academic in conjunction with programme board. Repeat of coursework and/or written examination or other repeat mechanism as appropriate dependent on students performance and module engagement.

SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Workload Category Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact No Description 12 Weeks per Stage 1.00 12
Laboratory Contact No Description 12 Weeks per Stage 2.00 24
Estimated Learner Hours Non Contact No Description 15 Weeks per Stage 5.93 89
Total Weekly Contact Hours 3.00
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Andrew S. Tanenbaum. (2013), Structured Computer Organization, 6. Pearson Prentice Hall, [ISBN: 978-812034720].
  • Nell Dale. (2014), Computer Science Illuminated, 6. Jones & Bartlett Learning, [ISBN: 978-128405591].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
This module does not have any other resources
Discussion Note: