Examine and use a representative architecture (the Motorola MC68HC11 microcontroller) and its machine and assembly languages, in order to be able to extract the salient features of other computer architectures. Learn boolean logic and functionality of logic circuits.
Learn binary number representation, including signed and unsigned integers and floating point representations
To learn how high-level language constructs are actually implemented on a computer. Examples are for-loops, while-loops, switch-statements, variables, arrays, structures, pointers, linked lists, characters, signed and unsigned integers, functions and procedures, call-by-reference parameters, call-by-value parameters, returned values. This understanding will make you better at comprehending, debugging, and writing efficient high-level language programs.
To examine and implement the hardware and software needed to interface a representative computer peripheral device, in order to gain an understanding of relevant issues involved in computer peripheral interfacing. To learn and implement the interrupt control mechanism, which is a key component of much interface and other system software.
To learn and implement rudimentary memory management.
To populate and test a printed circuit board, in order to gain a general familiarity with electronic components. To learn basics of
To advance your problem-solving skills, debugging skills, and analytical reading skills.
The second part of the course will focus more on hardware. We
will cover interrupts, and interfacing, including serial communication,
downloading, digital sensors, analog sensors, and motor control. You will
populate a printed-circuit card with electronic components that will include
a MC68HC11 microprocessor, build a motorized vehicle made of LEGOs, and
implement hardware and software to interface motors and sensors that are
part of the LEGOs vehicle. The later labs and final project assignment
will lead you, incrementally, to the completion of a specific project.
I Grades: The grade of I (incomplete) may be given only if you
are unable to complete the course due to documented circumstances beyond
your control that develop after the last day to withdraw from the course.
Appropriate circumstances include illness and death or crisis in your immediate
family. Consult the university catalog for regulations regarding an I grade.
In no case will an I grade be assigned to avoid a grade of D or F in the
course.
S/U Grades: If you elect to be graded under the S/U option,
you must declare your intention when registering for the course. All work
in the class will be graded in a manner identical to that for students
choosing the letter grade option. At the end of the semester, your final
letter grade in the course will be used to assign either an S or a U. In
accordance with Faculty of Arts and Sciences regulations, you must achieve
a minimum grade of C in order to receive a grade of S.
Miscellaneous: If you have, or think you have, a disability
that interferes with your academic progress, you may contact Services for
Students with Disabilities at 646-6840 for an appointment. Services for
Students with Disabilities is located in Garcia Annex, Room 102. Current
and appropriate documentation will be required in order to receive services.
If you have a condition which may affect your ability to exit safely
from the premises in an emergency or which may cause an emergency during
class, you are encouraged to discuss this in confidence with the instructor
and/or the directory of Disabled Student Programs. If you have general
questions about the Americans With Disabilities ACL (ADA), call 646-3333.