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ECE 3504 - Principles of Computer Architecture (3C)

Course Description

Instruction formats and construction. Addressing modes. Memory hierarchy (cache, main memory and secondary memory) operation and performance. Simple pipelines. Basic performance analysis. Simple Operating System (OS) functions, particularly as they relate to hardware. Virtual memory. Computer Input/Output (I/O) concepts, including interrupt and Direct Memory Access (DMA) mechanisms. Intercomputer communication concepts. Processor design.

Why take this course?

Computer systems play an integral role in all facets of the engineering profession. Systems users are always in need of faster, more powerful, yet cheaper computer systems. This course provides an understanding of the processor-level components of computer systems, their design and operation, and their impact on the overall performance of the systems. Further, the course lays out the basic functions of an operating system as they relate to computer hardware.

Learning Objectives

  • 1. Identify the elements of modern instructions sets and explain their impact on processor design,
  • 2. Identify and explain the function of basic elements of a modern processor, including instruction pipelines,
  • 3. Explain the function of each element of a memory hierarchy,
  • 4. Identify and compare different methods for computer I/O,
  • 5. Explain the basic functions of an operating system and the hardware mechanisms that support these functions, and
  • 6. Compare simple computer architectures and organizations based on established performance metrics.

    • Resources & Links

    Two-Semester Major Design Experience

    ECE’s two-semester Major Design Experience (ECE 4805-4806) provides teams of students with simulations of the post-college world via projects specified and directed by industry partners. For more information, contact class instructor, Dr. Joe Adams.

    Textbook List

    Take a look at the Fall 2024 ECE textbook list.
    Take a look at the Spring 2025 ECE textbook list.

    Current Prerequisites & Course Offering

    For current prerequisites for a particular course, and to view course offerings for a particular semester, see the Virginia Tech Course Timetables

    ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission

    The B.S. degree in electrical engineering and the B.S. degree in computer engineering are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.

    Program Educational Objectives (PEOs) & Student Outcomes (SOs)