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Marc Scott
On this course, you’ll gain an understanding of how computers work at a fundamental level.
Read more
On this course, you’ll gain an understanding of how computers work at a fundamental level.
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
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/8lzynr/how
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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
- 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
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
How logic gates can be combined to produce digital circuits that can perform a calculation
Von Neuman Architecture and the Fetch-Execute cycle
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , 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
Save this course
Save How Computers Work: Demystifying Computation to your list so you can find it easily later:
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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'
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Read 'Computer Architecture: A Quantitative Approach, 5th Edition'
Show steps
Build a strong foundation in computer architecture and design
View
Computer Organization and Design, Enhanced
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
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
Show steps
Improve your skills in performing binary arithmetic operations
Browse courses on
Binary Arithmetic
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find practice problems on binary arithmetic
- Solve the problems
- Check your answers
Follow a tutorial on how to use a logic simulator
Show steps
Gain hands-on experience in designing and simulating digital circuits
Browse courses on
Digital Logic
Show steps
Show steps
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
Show steps
Develop a practical understanding of the principles of computer architecture
Browse courses on
Digital Logic
Show steps
Show steps
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
Show steps
Engage with other students and reinforce your understanding of the course concepts
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study group
- Attend the study group meetings
- Participate in the discussions
Attend a workshop on computer architecture
Show steps
Gain practical experience and learn from experts in the field
Browse courses on
Computer Architecture
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a workshop on computer architecture
- Register for the workshop
- Attend the workshop
Create a blog post explaining the Fetch-Execute cycle
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of the Von Neumann Architecture and the Fetch-Execute cycle
Browse courses on
Fetch-Execute Cycle
Show steps
Show steps
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
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of computer architecture to a real-world project
Browse courses on
Computer Architecture
Show steps
Show steps
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 Programmer
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.
Computer Engineer
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.
Computer Scientist
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.
Computer Systems Analyst
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.
Software Engineer
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.
Systems Administrator
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.
Electronics 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.
Hardware 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.
Data Scientist
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.
Technical Support Specialist
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.
Web Developer
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.
Information Technology Specialist
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.
Electrical Engineer
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.
Robotics Engineer
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.
Network 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.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/8lzynr/how
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.
This textbook classic in the field of digital logic and computer design.
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive overview of computer architecture, covering both the hardware and software aspects of computer systems.
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.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of computer systems, from the programmer's perspective.
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.
Save
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive overview of deep learning.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental concepts of computer science, including computer architecture.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of operating systems.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of computer systems performance analysis.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of computer networks.
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive overview of database systems.
Save
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive overview of machine learning.
This textbook good choice for students who want to learn more about the hardware and software aspects of computer systems.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/8lzynr/how
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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
Good to know
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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