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How Computers Work

Demystifying Computation

Marc Scott

On this course, you’ll gain an understanding of how computers work at a fundamental level.

You'll explore system architecture, along with how computers use binary and logic. Once you’ve examined the von Neumann model of computer architecture and the Fetch-Execute cycle, you'll learn to build a range of simple circuits for maths, and then simulate various logic gates.

Ultimately you’ll complete the course with an understanding of the processes that underpin every modern computer – from supercomputers to smartphones, and everything in between.

Read more

On this course, you’ll gain an understanding of how computers work at a fundamental level.

You'll explore system architecture, along with how computers use binary and logic. Once you’ve examined the von Neumann model of computer architecture and the Fetch-Execute cycle, you'll learn to build a range of simple circuits for maths, and then simulate various logic gates.

Ultimately you’ll complete the course with an understanding of the processes that underpin every modern computer – from supercomputers to smartphones, and everything in between.

What you'll learn

Over the following four weeks, you will:

  • Explain how transistors can act as digital switches and be combined to create logic gates
  • Produce truth tables for AND, NOT and OR gates, individually or combined
  • Explain how computers use binary arithmetic
  • Describe how logic gates can be combined to produce digital circuits that can perform a calculation
  • Describe Von Neuman Architecture and the Fetch-Execute cycle
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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Explain how transistors can act as digital switches and be combined to create logic gates
  • Produce truth tables for and, not and or gates, individually or combined
  • Explain how computers use binary arithmetic
  • Describe how logic gates can be combined to produce digital circuits that can perform a calculation
  • Describe von neuman architecture and the fetch-execute cycle

Syllabus

This course will cover:
How computers use binary arithmetic
How transistors can act as digital switches and be combined to create logic gates
Creating truth tables for AND, NOT and OR gates, individually or combined
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Builds a strong foundation for beginners who wish to learn more about computer architecture and related concepts
Well-structured and covers a range of fundamental concepts in computer architecture, including binary arithmetic, logic gates, and the Fetch-Execute cycle
Provides hands-on labs and interactive materials to help learners apply their understanding of computer architecture concepts
Taught by an experienced instructor with expertise in the field of computer architecture

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Reviews summary

Demystifying computer fundamentals for beginners

According to learners, this course is largely positive and excels at providing incredibly clear explanations of fundamental concepts in computer science. Students found it effectively demystifies complex computation topics such as binary, logic gates, and Von Neumann architecture, offering a strong foundational understanding. The simulations and circuit building exercises are often highlighted as particularly insightful and helpful for practical comprehension. However, some learners with prior computer knowledge note that the pacing can be a bit slow or the content too basic, desiring more advanced or practical examples.
Interactive elements aid understanding, though some found them clunky.
"I found the truth tables and circuit building exercises particularly insightful."
"The simulations were a huge help!"
"The course is alright, but I felt the simulations were a bit clunky and sometimes difficult to use."
Highly recommended for those new to computer science.
"As someone completely new to computer science, this course was a godsend."
"For a complete beginner, it's probably good."
"It feels more suited for high school students or absolute beginners."
Provides essential understanding for beginners in computing.
"This course is absolutely fantastic for anyone wanting to understand the fundamental building blocks of computers."
"A very solid introduction to how computers function at a low level. It provided me with a great foundation."
"It's a foundational course, so I don't expect to become an expert, but it provides a solid mental model."
Simplifies complex computer concepts effectively.
"The explanations of binary, logic gates, and the Von Neumann architecture were incredibly clear and engaging."
"It really lives up to its name, 'Demystifying Computation'. The concepts are explained simply and the pacing is perfect."
"I now understand what happens inside my computer. The instructor does a phenomenal job of breaking down topics."
May be too basic or slow for learners with prior knowledge.
"Those with some prior knowledge might find parts a bit slow."
"I felt it didn't go deep enough into some areas. I found myself wanting more advanced topics."
"If you've read any introductory computer architecture book, you won't find much new here."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in How Computers Work: Demystifying Computation with these activities:
Read 'Computer Architecture: A Quantitative Approach, 5th Edition'
Build a strong foundation in computer architecture and design
View Computer Organization and Design, Enhanced on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the book from cover to cover
  • Summarize each chapter
  • Complete the practice exercises
  • Create a mind map of the key concepts
Solve practice problems on binary arithmetic
Improve your skills in performing binary arithmetic operations
Browse courses on Binary Arithmetic
Show steps
  • Find practice problems on binary arithmetic
  • Solve the problems
  • Check your answers
Follow a tutorial on how to use a logic simulator
Gain hands-on experience in designing and simulating digital circuits
Browse courses on Digital Logic
Show steps
  • Find a tutorial on how to use a logic simulator
  • Follow the tutorial
  • Simulate a few digital circuits
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Build a simple computer using logic gates
Develop a practical understanding of the principles of computer architecture
Browse courses on Digital Logic
Show steps
  • Research different logic gate types
  • Design a circuit diagram for a simple computer
  • Build the circuit using logic gates
  • Test the computer
Participate in a study group to discuss the course material
Engage with other students and reinforce your understanding of the course concepts
Show steps
  • Find a study group
  • Attend the study group meetings
  • Participate in the discussions
Attend a workshop on computer architecture
Gain practical experience and learn from experts in the field
Browse courses on Computer Architecture
Show steps
  • Find a workshop on computer architecture
  • Register for the workshop
  • Attend the workshop
Create a blog post explaining the Fetch-Execute cycle
Deepen your understanding of the Von Neumann Architecture and the Fetch-Execute cycle
Browse courses on Fetch-Execute Cycle
Show steps
  • Research the Fetch-Execute cycle
  • Write a blog post explaining the concept in your own words
  • Publish the blog post
Contribute to an open-source project related to computer architecture
Apply your knowledge of computer architecture to a real-world project
Browse courses on Computer Architecture
Show steps
  • Find an open-source project related to computer architecture
  • Read the project documentation
  • Make a contribution to the project

Career center

Learners who complete How Computers Work: Demystifying Computation will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Computer Systems Analyst
Computer Systems Analysts design, implement, and maintain computer systems. They work with users to understand their needs and then design systems that meet those needs. This course would be helpful for someone who wants to become a Computer Systems Analyst because it provides a foundation in the basics of computer architecture and how computers work. The course covers topics such as binary arithmetic, logic gates, and the Fetch-Execute cycle, which are all essential concepts for Computer Systems Analysts.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Systems Analyst
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. They work with a variety of programming languages and tools to create software that meets specific needs. This course would be helpful for someone who wants to become a Software Engineer because it provides a foundation in the basics of computer architecture and how computers work. The course covers topics such as binary arithmetic, logic gates, and the Fetch-Execute cycle, which are all essential concepts for Software Engineers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Systems Administrator
Systems Administrators maintain and support computer systems and networks. They work with a variety of operating systems and software applications to ensure that systems are running smoothly. This course would be helpful for someone who wants to become a Systems Administrator because it provides a foundation in the basics of computer architecture and how computers work. The course covers topics such as binary arithmetic, logic gates, and the Fetch-Execute cycle, which are all essential concepts for Systems Administrators.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator
Computer Programmer
Computer Programmers write and test code that makes computers perform specific tasks. They work with a variety of programming languages and tools to create software applications. This course would be helpful for someone who wants to become a Computer Programmer because it provides a foundation in the basics of computer architecture and how computers work. The course covers topics such as binary arithmetic, logic gates, and the Fetch-Execute cycle, which are all essential concepts for Computer Programmers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientists study the theory and practice of computation. They develop new algorithms and data structures, and they design new computer systems. This course would be helpful for someone who wants to become a Computer Scientist because it provides a foundation in the basics of computer architecture and how computers work. The course covers topics such as binary arithmetic, logic gates, and the Fetch-Execute cycle, which are all essential concepts for Computer Scientists.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Scientist
Computer Engineer
Computer Engineers design and develop computer systems and components. They are responsible for the hardware and software that make computers work. This course would be helpful for someone who wants to become a Computer Engineer because it provides a foundation in the basics of computer architecture and how computers work. The course covers topics such as binary arithmetic, logic gates, and the Fetch-Execute cycle, which are all essential concepts for Computer Engineers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Engineer
Network Engineer
Network Engineers design, implement, and maintain computer networks. They work with a variety of network devices and protocols to create networks that meet specific needs. This course would be helpful for someone who wants to become a Network Engineer because it provides a foundation in the basics of computer architecture and how computers work. The course covers topics such as binary arithmetic, logic gates, and the Fetch-Execute cycle, which are all essential concepts for Network Engineers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer
Technical Support Specialist
Technical Support Specialists provide technical support to users of computer systems and networks. They work with users to resolve problems and ensure that systems are running smoothly. This course would be helpful for someone who wants to become a Technical Support Specialist because it provides a foundation in the basics of computer architecture and how computers work. The course covers topics such as binary arithmetic, logic gates, and the Fetch-Execute cycle, which are all essential concepts for Technical Support Specialists.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Support Specialist
Web Developer
Web Developers design and develop websites. They work with a variety of programming languages and tools to create websites that meet specific needs. This course would be helpful for someone who wants to become a Web Developer because it provides a foundation in the basics of computer architecture and how computers work. The course covers topics such as binary arithmetic, logic gates, and the Fetch-Execute cycle, which are all essential concepts for Web Developers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer
Robotics Engineer
Robotics Engineers design, develop, and maintain robots. They work with a variety of mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering principles to create robots that meet specific needs. This course would be helpful for someone who wants to become a Robotics Engineer because it provides a foundation in the basics of computer architecture and how computers work. The course covers topics such as binary arithmetic, logic gates, and the Fetch-Execute cycle, which are all essential concepts for Robotics Engineers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Robotics Engineer
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use data to solve problems and make decisions. They work with a variety of data sources and tools to extract insights from data. This course would be helpful for someone who wants to become a Data Scientist because it provides a foundation in the basics of computer architecture and how computers work. The course covers topics such as binary arithmetic, logic gates, and the Fetch-Execute cycle, which are all essential concepts for Data Scientists.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers design, develop, and maintain electrical systems. They work with a variety of electrical components and devices to create systems that meet specific needs. This course would be helpful for someone who wants to become an Electrical Engineer because it provides a foundation in the basics of computer architecture and how computers work. The course covers topics such as binary arithmetic, logic gates, and the Fetch-Execute cycle, which are all essential concepts for Electrical Engineers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Engineer
Electronics Engineer
Electronics Engineers design, develop, and maintain electronic systems. They work with a variety of electronic components and devices to create systems that meet specific needs. This course would be helpful for someone who wants to become an Electronics Engineer because it provides a foundation in the basics of computer architecture and how computers work. The course covers topics such as binary arithmetic, logic gates, and the Fetch-Execute cycle, which are all essential concepts for Electronics Engineers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Electronics Engineer
Hardware Engineer
Hardware Engineers design, develop, and maintain computer hardware. They work with a variety of electronic components and devices to create systems that meet specific needs. This course would be helpful for someone who wants to become a Hardware Engineer because it provides a foundation in the basics of computer architecture and how computers work. The course covers topics such as binary arithmetic, logic gates, and the Fetch-Execute cycle, which are all essential concepts for Hardware Engineers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Hardware Engineer
Information Technology Specialist
Information Technology Specialists support and maintain computer systems and networks. They work with users to resolve problems and ensure that systems are running smoothly. This course would be helpful for someone who wants to become an Information Technology Specialist because it provides a foundation in the basics of computer architecture and how computers work. The course covers topics such as binary arithmetic, logic gates, and the Fetch-Execute cycle, which are all essential concepts for Information Technology Specialists.
See salaries and explore the career path for Information Technology Specialist

Reading list

We've selected 13 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in How Computers Work: Demystifying Computation.
Cover image
Digital Design, Global Edition
Save
This textbook classic in the field of digital logic and computer design.
Digital Design, Global Edition
Paperback
Check
Digital Design, Global Edition
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Computer Organization and Design RISC-V Edition
Save
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive overview of computer architecture, covering both the hardware and software aspects of computer systems.
Computer Organization and Design RISC-V Edition
Paperback
Check
Computer Organization and Design RISC-V Edition
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Computer Organization and Design MIPS Edition
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of computer organization and design, making it a good choice for students who want to learn more about the hardware and software aspects of computers.
Computer Organization and Design MIPS Edition: The...
Paperback
$$$
Computer Organization and Design MIPS Edition: The...
Paperback
$$$$
Computer Organization and Design MIPS Edition: The...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Computer Organization and Design MIPS Edition: The...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Computer Systems: A Programmer's Perspective,...
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of computer systems, from the programmer's perspective.
Computer Systems: A Programmer's Perspective,...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Digital Design and Computer Architecture
Save
This textbook covers the basics of digital logic design and computer architecture, making it a good choice for students who want to learn more about the underlying hardware of computers.
Digital Design and Computer Architecture
Paperback
Check
Digital Design and Computer Architecture
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Deep Learning
Save
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive overview of deep learning.
Deep Learning
Paperback
$$$
Deep Learning (Adaptive Computation and Machine...
Hardcover
$$$
Deep Learning (Adaptive Computation and Machine...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
The Elements of Computing Systems, second edition
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental concepts of computer science, including computer architecture.
The Elements of Computing Systems, second edition:...
Paperback
$$
The Elements of Computing Systems, second edition:...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Operating Systems
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of operating systems.
Operating Systems: Three Easy Pieces
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Art of Computer Systems Performance Analysis
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of computer systems performance analysis.
The Art of Computer Systems Performance Analysis:...
Hardcover
$$$$
Computer Networks
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of computer networks.
Computer Networks: A Systems Approach (The Morgan...
Paperback
$$$
Computer Networks: A Systems Approach (The Morgan...
Hardcover
$$$
Computer Networks, Third Edition: A Systems...
Kindle Edition
$
Computer Networks: A Systems Approach, Fourth...
Hardcover
$$
Computer Networks: A Systems Approach (Morgan...
Hardcover
$$$
Computer Networks: A Systems Approach, Second...
Hardcover
$$
Cover image
Database Dreaming Volume I
Save
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive overview of database systems.
Database Dreaming Volume I: Relational Writings...
Paperback
$$
Database Dreaming Volume I: Relational Writings...
Kindle Edition
$$
Machine Learning
Save
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive overview of machine learning.
Machine Learning (McGraw-Hill International...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Intro Computing Systems
Save
This textbook good choice for students who want to learn more about the hardware and software aspects of computer systems.
Introduction to Computing Systems: From Bits &...
Paperback
$$$

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Course image
Effort
2 to 4 hours per week for 4 weeks
Level
Elementary
Via
edX
Institution
Raspberry Pi Foundation
Instructor
Marc Scott
Language
English
Transcript
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Builds a strong foundation for beginners who wish to learn more about computer architecture and related concepts
Well-structured and covers a range of fundamental concepts in computer architecture, including binary arithmetic, logic gates, and the Fetch-Execute cycle
Provides hands-on labs and interactive materials to help learners apply their understanding of computer architecture concepts
Taught by an experienced instructor with expertise in the field of computer architecture
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