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David Wentzlaff
In this course, you will learn to design the computer architecture of complex modern microprocessors.
All the features of this course are available for free. It does not offer a certificate upon completion.
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What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction, Instruction Set Architecture, and Microcode
This lecture will give you a broad overview of the course, as well as the description of architecture, micro-architecture and instruction set architectures.
Read more
Syllabus
Introduction, Instruction Set Architecture, and Microcode
This lecture will give you a broad overview of the course, as well as the description of architecture, micro-architecture and instruction set architectures.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Explores modern microprocessor architecture design, which is standard in industry
Taught by David Wentzlaff, who is recognized for their work in microprocessor architecture
Develops a strong foundation in microprocessor architecture for beginners
Covers unique perspectives and ideas that may add color to other topics and subjects
May require students to come in with extensive background knowledge first
Does not offer a certificate upon completion
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Reviews summary
Deep computer architecture foundation
According to learners, this course offers a strong theoretical foundation in computer architecture. The lectures are clear and effective at explaining difficult concepts. The assignments are engaging and help students solidify understanding of the material. Students note that the material is very challenging and moves at a fast pace, often requiring strong prerequisite knowledge in computer science. It's important to note that it does not offer a certificate upon completion. Overall sentiment is largely positive among students who completed it.
Course does not offer a certificate.
"Note that this course does not offer a certificate upon completion."
"Took this course purely for the knowledge; there is no certification provided."
"Great free resource, just be aware you won't get a certificate."
Homework reinforces concepts well.
"The homework assignments were challenging but really helped solidify my understanding of the concepts."
"I enjoyed working on the assignments; they were practical and tested my knowledge effectively."
"Assignments felt relevant to the topics covered and were a good way to practice."
Lectures explain complex ideas well.
"The lectures were incredibly clear and broke down complex topics into understandable segments."
"I thought the instructor did a great job explaining difficult concepts in a concise way."
"Found the video content well-structured and easy to follow along with."
Provides deep dive into principles.
"I really appreciate how deeply the course goes into the theoretical basis of computer architecture."
"Learned the fundamental principles very thoroughly; it builds a solid academic background."
"Provides a solid foundation. I feel like I truly understand the 'why' behind designs now."
Moves quickly, especially later modules.
"The pace of the course is quite fast, particularly in the later weeks. Had to pause and rewatch."
"Sometimes felt rushed when going through complex topics in the lectures."
"Wish there was a bit more time dedicated to certain advanced concepts."
Needs prior CS fundamental knowledge.
"You definitely need strong prior knowledge of CS fundamentals to succeed in this course."
"Assumes a certain level of background knowledge, so be prepared if you're rusty."
"I found I needed to review basic computer science concepts before diving into the material."
Requires significant effort.
"This course is quite challenging, especially the later topics. Be prepared to work hard."
"I found some of the advanced concepts difficult to grasp without spending extra time reviewing."
"Definitely not for the faint of heart; it really pushes you to understand the material deeply."
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 Computer Architecture with these
activities:
Organize Course Materials for Deeper Understanding
Show steps
Lay a strong foundation for your learning by organizing and reviewing course materials.
Show steps
-
Create a structured folder system for lecture notes, assignments, and other resources.
-
Summarize and annotate key concepts to enhance your understanding.
Review Fundamentals of Computer Architecture
Show steps
Refresh your understanding of the basic concepts in computer architecture before starting the course.
Browse courses on
Computer Architecture
Show steps
-
Revisit the Von Neumann architecture and its components.
-
Review different instruction set architectures (ISAs) and their impact on performance.
Compile a Glossary of Parallel Programming Concepts
Show steps
Solidify your understanding of parallel programming terminology by compiling a comprehensive glossary.
Browse courses on
Parallel Programming
Show steps
-
Define key concepts such as threads, processes, synchronization, and load balancing.
-
Include examples and diagrams to illustrate the concepts.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Do Pipeline and Cache Practice Problems
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of the fundamental concepts of pipelining and cache by practicing solving problems.
Browse courses on
Pipeline
Show steps
-
Identify different pipeline hazards and explain how to resolve them.
-
Calculate hit and miss rates for various cache configurations and analyze the impact on performance.
Explore Advanced Caching Techniques
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of cache optimizations by following guided tutorials that cover advanced mechanisms.
Browse courses on
Memory Management
Show steps
-
Investigate the principles behind cache coherence protocols and their impact on multiprocessor systems.
-
Explore techniques for reducing cache pollution and false sharing.
Follow Tutorials on Vector Processors and GPUs
Show steps
Expand your knowledge of vector processing and GPUs by following guided tutorials.
Show steps
-
Understand the architecture of vector processors and how they exploit data-level parallelism.
-
Learn techniques for optimizing code for GPUs, including thread management and memory access patterns.
Design a Simple Superscalar Processor
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of superscalar architecture by designing your own simplified version.
Browse courses on
Superscalar Processors
Show steps
-
Define the microarchitecture of the processor, including the number of execution units and types of instructions supported.
-
Develop a scheduling algorithm to determine which instructions can be executed in parallel.
-
Implement a simulator to test the performance of your design.
Attend a Multiprocessor Interconnect Workshop
Show steps
Gain hands-on experience and insights into the design and implementation of multiprocessor interconnects.
Browse courses on
Computer Architecture
Show steps
-
Learn about different types of interconnects, including crossbars, buses, and networks-on-chip.
-
Analyze the performance characteristics of various interconnect topologies.
Participate in a Parallel Programming Competition
Show steps
Test your skills and learn from others by participating in a parallel programming competition.
Browse courses on
Parallel Programming
Show steps
-
Choose a competition that aligns with your interests and skill level.
-
Develop and optimize a parallel algorithm to solve the competition problem.
Organize Course Materials for Deeper Understanding
Show steps
Lay a strong foundation for your learning by organizing and reviewing course materials.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a structured folder system for lecture notes, assignments, and other resources.
- Summarize and annotate key concepts to enhance your understanding.
Review Fundamentals of Computer Architecture
Show steps
Refresh your understanding of the basic concepts in computer architecture before starting the course.
Browse courses on
Computer Architecture
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Revisit the Von Neumann architecture and its components.
- Review different instruction set architectures (ISAs) and their impact on performance.
Compile a Glossary of Parallel Programming Concepts
Show steps
Solidify your understanding of parallel programming terminology by compiling a comprehensive glossary.
Browse courses on
Parallel Programming
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Define key concepts such as threads, processes, synchronization, and load balancing.
- Include examples and diagrams to illustrate the concepts.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Do Pipeline and Cache Practice Problems
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of the fundamental concepts of pipelining and cache by practicing solving problems.
Browse courses on
Pipeline
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify different pipeline hazards and explain how to resolve them.
- Calculate hit and miss rates for various cache configurations and analyze the impact on performance.
Explore Advanced Caching Techniques
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of cache optimizations by following guided tutorials that cover advanced mechanisms.
Browse courses on
Memory Management
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Investigate the principles behind cache coherence protocols and their impact on multiprocessor systems.
- Explore techniques for reducing cache pollution and false sharing.
Follow Tutorials on Vector Processors and GPUs
Show steps
Expand your knowledge of vector processing and GPUs by following guided tutorials.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Understand the architecture of vector processors and how they exploit data-level parallelism.
- Learn techniques for optimizing code for GPUs, including thread management and memory access patterns.
Design a Simple Superscalar Processor
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of superscalar architecture by designing your own simplified version.
Browse courses on
Superscalar Processors
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Define the microarchitecture of the processor, including the number of execution units and types of instructions supported.
- Develop a scheduling algorithm to determine which instructions can be executed in parallel.
- Implement a simulator to test the performance of your design.
Attend a Multiprocessor Interconnect Workshop
Show steps
Gain hands-on experience and insights into the design and implementation of multiprocessor interconnects.
Browse courses on
Computer Architecture
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Learn about different types of interconnects, including crossbars, buses, and networks-on-chip.
- Analyze the performance characteristics of various interconnect topologies.
Participate in a Parallel Programming Competition
Show steps
Test your skills and learn from others by participating in a parallel programming competition.
Browse courses on
Parallel Programming
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a competition that aligns with your interests and skill level.
- Develop and optimize a parallel algorithm to solve the competition problem.
Career center
Learners who complete Computer Architecture will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Computer Hardware Engineer
Computer Hardware Engineer
Computer Hardware Engineers design, develop, and test computer hardware, including processors, motherboards, and other components. This course can help you build a foundation in computer architecture, which is essential for success in this role. You will learn about the different components of a computer system and how they work together. You will also learn about the design principles behind modern processors and other hardware components. This knowledge will help you to develop and test new hardware products that meet the needs of users.
Computer Systems Analyst
Computer Systems Analyst
Computer Systems Analysts analyze and design computer systems, including hardware, software, and networks. This course can help you build a foundation in computer architecture, which is essential for success in this role. You will learn about the different components of a computer system and how they work together. You will also learn about the design principles behind modern processors and other hardware components. This knowledge will help you to analyze and design computer systems that meet the needs of users.
Network Architect
Network Architect
Network Architects design and build computer networks, including routers, switches, and other components. This course can help you build a foundation in computer architecture, which is essential for success in this role. You will learn about the different components of a computer network and how they work together. You will also learn about the design principles behind modern routers and other network components. This knowledge will help you to design and build computer networks that meet the needs of users.
Embedded Systems Engineer
Embedded Systems Engineer
Embedded Systems Engineers design and develop embedded systems, which are small computers that are used in a variety of devices, such as cars, phones, and medical devices. This course can help you build a foundation in computer architecture, which is essential for success in this role. You will learn about the different components of an embedded system and how they work together. You will also learn about the design principles behind modern processors and other embedded system components. This knowledge will help you to design and develop embedded systems that meet the needs of users.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and test software applications. This course may be useful for those who want to specialize in developing software for embedded systems or other hardware devices. You will learn about the different components of a computer system and how they work together. You will also learn about the design principles behind modern processors and other hardware components. This knowledge will help you to develop software that is efficient and reliable.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use data to build models that can predict future events or make recommendations. This course may be useful for those who want to specialize in developing models for hardware systems. You will learn about the different components of a computer system and how they work together. You will also learn about the design principles behind modern processors and other hardware components. This knowledge will help you to develop models that are efficient and reliable.
Computer Programmer
Computer Programmer
Computer Programmers write code that controls computers. This course may be useful for those who want to specialize in developing code for embedded systems or other hardware devices. You will learn about the different components of a computer system and how they work together. You will also learn about the design principles behind modern processors and other hardware components. This knowledge will help you to write code that is efficient and reliable.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create documentation for computer hardware and software. This course may be useful for those who want to specialize in writing documentation for embedded systems or other hardware devices. You will learn about the different components of a computer system and how they work together. You will also learn about the design principles behind modern processors and other hardware components. This knowledge will help you to write documentation that is clear and concise.
Computer Support Specialist
Computer Support Specialist
Computer Support Specialists provide technical support to computer users. This course may be useful for those who want to specialize in supporting hardware devices. You will learn about the different components of a computer system and how they work together. You will also learn about the design principles behind modern processors and other hardware components. This knowledge will help you to troubleshoot and resolve hardware problems.
Computer Network Technician
Computer Network Technician
Computer Network Technicians install and maintain computer networks. This course may be useful for those who want to specialize in supporting hardware devices. You will learn about the different components of a computer network and how they work together. You will also learn about the design principles behind modern routers and other network components. This knowledge will help you to troubleshoot and resolve network problems.
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts protect computer systems from unauthorized access and attack. This course may be useful for those who want to specialize in securing hardware devices. You will learn about the different components of a computer system and how they work together. You will also learn about the design principles behind modern processors and other hardware components. This knowledge will help you to identify and mitigate security risks.
Computer Sales Representative
Computer Sales Representative
Computer Sales Representatives sell computer hardware and software. This course may be useful for those who want to specialize in selling hardware devices. You will learn about the different components of a computer system and how they work together. You will also learn about the design principles behind modern processors and other hardware components. This knowledge will help you to understand the needs of customers and recommend the best products for them.
Computer Training Instructor
Computer Training Instructor
Computer Training Instructors teach people how to use computers. This course may be useful for those who want to specialize in teaching about hardware devices. You will learn about the different components of a computer system and how they work together. You will also learn about the design principles behind modern processors and other hardware components. This knowledge will help you to develop and deliver effective training programs.
Computer Repair Technician
Computer Repair Technician
Computer Repair Technicians repair and maintain computers. This course may be useful for those who want to specialize in repairing hardware devices. You will learn about the different components of a computer system and how they work together. You will also learn about the design principles behind modern processors and other hardware components. This knowledge will help you to diagnose and repair hardware problems.
Computer Operator
Computer Operator
Computer Operators monitor and operate computer systems. This course may be useful for those who want to specialize in operating hardware devices. You will learn about the different components of a computer system and how they work together. You will also learn about the design principles behind modern processors and other hardware components. This knowledge will help you to keep computer systems running smoothly and efficiently.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/lh5z09/computer
Reading list
We've selected 35 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
Computer Architecture.
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer architecture, covering topics such as instruction set architecture, pipelining, caches, memory systems, and multiprocessors. It classic textbook in the field and is widely used in academic institutions.
Classic textbook on computer architecture. It provides a comprehensive overview of the field, from the basics of computer hardware and software to the latest advances in computer design.
Covers advanced topics in computer architecture, including superscalar and out-of-order execution, vector processors, multithreading, and memory coherence. It valuable reference for anyone interested in learning more about the latest developments in computer architecture.
This textbook provides in-depth coverage of modern computer architecture, with a strong emphasis on quantitative analysis. It valuable resource for understanding the underlying principles and design trade-offs involved in computer architecture.
Provides an in-depth exploration of superscalar processor design, covering topics such as pipeline design, instruction scheduling, and branch prediction. It valuable resource for learners who want to understand the inner workings of modern processors.
Presents a unique approach to computer architecture, focusing on the fundamental principles underlying the design and construction of modern computer systems. It valuable resource for learners who want to understand the inner workings of computers at a deep level.
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer architecture, covering the fundamentals of computer design and organization. It widely used textbook in computer architecture courses and provides a solid foundation for understanding the concepts taught in this course.
Provides a comprehensive overview of high-performance computer architecture, covering the different techniques used to improve the performance of computer systems. It valuable resource for those who want to learn more about the latest developments in computer architecture.
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer systems, covering the different components of a computer system and how they work together. It valuable resource for those who want to learn more about the fundamentals of computer systems.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of deep learning, covering the different techniques used to create deep learning systems. It valuable resource for those who want to learn more about the fundamentals of deep learning.
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer architecture, from the basics of microprocessors to the design of supercomputers. It good choice for anyone who wants to learn more about the hardware and software that make up modern computers.
Save
Provides a concise and easy-to-understand overview of operating systems, covering the different components of an operating system and how they work together. It valuable resource for those who want to learn more about the fundamentals of operating systems.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer networks, covering the different protocols and technologies used to connect computers. It valuable resource for those who want to learn more about the fundamentals of computer networks.
Provides a comprehensive overview of natural language processing, covering the different techniques used to process and understand natural language. It valuable resource for those who want to learn more about the fundamentals of natural language processing.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of compilers, covering the different phases of compilation and how they work together. It valuable resource for those who want to learn more about the fundamentals of compilers.
This textbook presents a concise and accessible introduction to computer architecture, focusing on the fundamental concepts and design principles. It great starting point for learners who are new to the subject.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of computer architecture and design, covering both the hardware and software aspects. It valuable resource for learners who want to gain a solid foundation in the subject.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer graphics, covering the different techniques used to create and render images. It valuable resource for those who want to learn more about the fundamentals of computer graphics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of cache memory optimization techniques, covering topics such as cache coherence, replacement policies, and prefetching. It valuable resource for learners who want to understand how to improve the performance of computer systems.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of memory systems, covering topics such as cache design, DRAM technology, and disk storage. It valuable resource for learners who want to understand the fundamentals of computer memory.
Provides a comprehensive overview of vector processors, covering topics such as vector architecture, programming models, and performance optimization. It valuable resource for learners who want to understand the principles of vector computing.
Provides a comprehensive overview of multithreading architecture, covering topics such as thread scheduling, synchronization, and performance optimization. It valuable resource for learners who want to understand the principles of multithreaded computing.
Provides a comprehensive overview of embedded systems design using platform FPGAs, covering topics such as hardware design, software development, and system integration. It valuable resource for learners who want to understand the principles of embedded systems design.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of machine learning, covering the different techniques used to create learning systems. It valuable resource for those who want to learn more about the fundamentals of machine learning.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of parallel computer architectures, covering topics such as shared memory systems, distributed memory systems, and message passing. It valuable resource for learners who want to understand the principles of parallel computing.
Covers the fundamentals of computer architecture, including topics such as instruction set architecture, pipelining, caches, and memory systems. It good choice for anyone who wants to learn more about the basic principles of computer architecture.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer architecture, from the hardware level to the software level. It good choice for anyone who wants to learn more about the complete computer system.
Provides a practical overview of computer architecture, with a focus on examples and case studies. It good choice for anyone who wants to learn more about the real-world applications of computer architecture.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the ARM architecture, with a focus on system software development. It good choice for anyone who wants to learn more about the design and optimization of system software for ARM-based systems.
Provides a gentle introduction to computer architecture. It good choice for students who are new to the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the PowerPC architecture. It good choice for anyone who wants to learn more about the design and implementation of PowerPC processors.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the MIPS RISC architecture. It good choice for anyone who wants to learn more about the design and implementation of RISC processors.
Provides a practical approach to computer architecture. It good choice for students who want to learn how to design and build computers.
Provides a comprehensive overview of digital design and computer architecture. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the field.
Classic textbook on computer science. It provides a broad overview of the field, from the basics of computer hardware and software to the latest advances in computer design.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/lh5z09/computer
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Institution
Princeton University
Instructor
David Wentzlaff
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