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CIT411Sciences2 Unitsintermediate

Micro-Computers and Micro-Processors

This course introduces the operation of modern microprocessor-based systems on assembly language and hardware level. It presents basic concepts of microcomputer architecture, microprocessor architecture and programmer's model, assembly programming, binary code representation, interfacing, testing and development. The course reviews digital electronics, microprocessors, functions, operations, architecture, and comparison of current microprocessors. It also covers assembler language, instruction sets, address modes, stack operation, subroutines, I/O data transfer, and bus control.

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120h

Study Time

13

Weeks

9h

Per Week

basic

Math Level

Course Keywords

MicroprocessorAssembly LanguageMicrocomputerArchitectureInterfacing

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level

Builds on foundational knowledge

65%

intermediate

➕

Math Level

Basic Math

🔬

Learning Type

Hands-on Practice

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Microprocessor Architecture

2

Assembly Language Programming

3

Instruction Sets and Addressing Modes

4

Interrupt Handling

5

Microcomputer Systems

6

Memory Organization

7

Direct Memory Access

8

Computer Networking

Total Topics8 topics

Ready to Start

No specific requirements needed

This course is designed to be accessible to all students. You can start immediately without any prior knowledge or specific preparation.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

tutor-marked assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

final examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Embedded Systems Engineer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Computer Architect

Apply your skills in this growing field

Systems Programmer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Hardware Engineer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Network Administrator

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

Embedded SystemsComputer HardwareTelecommunicationsIndustrial AutomationNetworking

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week

1

Module 1:

6h

Unit 1: Basic Concept of Microprocessors

3 study hours

•Read the introduction to microprocessors and their role in modern computing systems.
•Understand the historical development of microprocessors and their technological innovations.
•Attempt the tutor-marked assignment to test your understanding of the basic concepts.

Unit 2: Microprocessor Architecture

3 study hours

•Study the architectural design of microprocessors, focusing on the 8085 microprocessor.
•Identify and understand the functions of various components such as the control unit, ALU, and registers.
•Explore microprocessor interfacing techniques and their importance in system design.

Week

2

Module 1:

6h

Unit 3: Types of Microprocessors

3 study hours

•Examine different types of microprocessors based on hardware characteristics and application areas.
•Compare Intel and Motorola microprocessors, noting their features and applications.
•Discuss the differences in microprocessor architectures, including x86 vs. x64.

Unit 4: Microprocessors Operation and Functions

3 study hours

•Learn about the different operations a microprocessor can perform, including input/output, ALU operations, and memory access.
•Understand the functions of a microprocessor in controlling the CPU and other digital devices.
•Review the role of the control unit in directing the flow of operations and data.

Week

3

Module 2:

4h

Unit 1: Assembly Language

4 study hours

•Define assembly language and its benefits in terms of speed, space, and capability.
•Understand the format of assembly language instructions and the use of mnemonics.
•Study the 8085 assembly language instruction set, including assembler directives and types of instructions.

Week

4

Module 2:

4h

Unit 2: Instruction Set and Addressing Modes

4 study hours

•Classify the instruction set of the 8085 microprocessor into data transfer, arithmetic, logical, branching, and machine control operations.
•Explore the different addressing modes, including immediate, register, direct, and indirect addressing.
•Practice using various instructions and addressing modes in assembly language programs.

Week

5

Module 2:

4h

Unit 3: Interrupts

4 study hours

•Define interrupts and their role in interrupting normal program execution.
•Understand interrupt priorities and how they are controlled using the IP SFR.
•Examine the steps that occur when an interrupt is triggered and how it ends with the RETI instruction.

Week

6

Module 2:

4h

Unit 4: Input and Out (I/O) Transfer / System Bus

4 study hours

•Learn about input and output devices and their role in transferring data to and from a computer application.
•Study the system bus, including the address bus, data bus, and control bus.
•Understand how the CPU communicates with memory and I/O devices using the system bus.

Week

7

Module 3:

6h

Unit 1: Basic Concept of Microcomputer

3 study hours

•Define microcomputers and their components, including hardware, operating system, system programs, and application programs.
•Explore the microcomputer revolution and the key steps in its development.
•Identify the basic blocks of a microcomputer, such as input units, output units, and memory.

Unit 2: Microcomputers Architecture

3 study hours

•Understand microcomputer architecture as the conceptual design and fundamental operational structure of a computer system.
•Differentiate between the Von Neumann architecture and the Harvard architecture.
•Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each architecture.

Week

8

Module 3:

4h

Unit 3: Microcomputers Networking

4 study hours

•Define microcomputer networking and its role in sharing data and resources.
•Explore different types of microcomputer networking, including PAN, LAN, CAN, MAN, and WAN.
•Compare host-based networks and client-server networks, noting their application architectures.

Week

9

Module 3:

4h

Unit 4: Direct Memory Access (DMA)

4 study hours

•Understand memory organization and segmentation in microcomputers.
•Define Direct Memory Access (DMA) and its role in accessing and transferring data without involving the CPU.
•Explore the benefits of DMA and the devices that use it.

Week

10

Revision

6h

Revision

6 study hours

•Review all modules
•Work on TMA's
•Prepare for Examination

Week

11

Revision

6h

Revision

6 study hours

•Review all modules
•Work on TMA's
•Prepare for Examination

Week

12

Revision

6h

Revision

6 study hours

•Review all modules
•Work on TMA's
•Prepare for Examination

Week

13

Revision

6h

Revision

6 study hours

•Review all modules
•Work on TMA's
•Prepare for Examination

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

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Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Create a detailed study schedule, allocating specific time slots for each module and unit.

2

Focus on understanding the 8085 instruction set and practice writing assembly language programs.

3

Use online simulators and emulators to test your assembly code and observe the microprocessor's behavior.

4

Create concept maps linking different addressing modes and their applications.

5

Review the different types of computer networks and their characteristics.

6

Practice solving problems related to memory organization and Direct Memory Access.

7

Review all Tutor Marked Assignments (TMAs) and address any areas where you struggled.

8

Form a study group with other students to discuss challenging concepts and share insights.

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