Computer Architecture Roadmap

Exploring the fundamental components and principles that govern how computers work.

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Chapter Main Topic Content & Learning Activities Objectives & Deliverables
1 Introduction
  • History of computer development.
  • Von Neumann and Harvard architectures.
  • Number systems and data representation (Integer, Floating-point, Character).
  • Representation of audio and image data.
  • Understand fundamental concepts of computer history and data representation.
2 General Structure of a Computer
  • Human-like structure of a computer.
  • Working principles of a computer.
  • Functions of CPU, ALU, Memory, I/O ports, and BUS.
  • Grasp the operational principles and roles of key components.
3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
  • History of CPU development.
  • CPU structure and operating principles (ALU, CU).
  • In-depth look at the 8086 CPU: registers, flags.
  • Characteristics of various CPU types.
  • Deep dive into CPU architecture and its core components.
4 Memory
  • Memory hierarchy and types (ROM, RAM, Cache).
  • Addressing modes: Segment, offset, effective address.
  • Storage devices: HDD, CD, DVD.
  • Assembly language interrupts for disk operations.
  • Understand the memory hierarchy and storage technologies.
5 Data Transfer via I/O Ports
  • Serial and parallel transmission methods.
  • Communication protocols.
  • Data transfer via 8251, 8255 microchips.
  • Assembly commands for data transfer.
  • Learn the mechanisms of data transfer between components.
6 Peripherals
  • Overview of peripherals: Monitor, Keyboard, Mouse, Printer.
  • Using assembly interrupt calls to display information and read from the keyboard.
  • Understand how the computer interacts with peripheral devices.
7 Bus System
  • Data Bus, Control Bus, System Bus.
  • Practical issues related to BUS specifications.
  • Assembly commands for BUS operations.
  • Learn about the computer's internal communication pathways.

Core Mindsets for Computer Architecture

1. Think in Layers of Abstraction

Understand how high-level code translates down to low-level hardware operations. From software to assembly to machine code to logic gates, every layer builds upon the one below it.

2. Performance is Physical

Speed isn't magic; it's physics. Performance is governed by data locality (cache vs. RAM), instruction pipelines, parallelism, and the physical limits of electronics.

3. Everything is a Trade-off

There is no single "best" design. Every architectural choice is a balance between performance, cost, power consumption, and complexity (e.g., CISC vs. RISC).

4. The Bottleneck Rules All

A system is only as fast as its slowest component. Understanding the roles of the bus, memory latency, and I/O is crucial for identifying and solving performance issues.