Introduction to Microprocessors is targeted at anyone with an interest in learning the basics of computer architecture, microprocessors and CPUs.
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Introduction to Microprocessors is targeted at anyone with an interest in learning the basics of computer architecture, microprocessors and CPUs.
Introduction to Microprocessors is targeted at anyone with an interest in learning the basics of computer architecture, microprocessors and CPUs.
Do you want to understand how the central processing unit (CPU) of a microprocessor works? How the code you type is actually executed by your computer? Presented by engineers from Arm, this course provides you with an introduction to the central components of processors including:
- the Arithmetic Logic Unit, or ALU, and the arithmetic and logical operations it carries out;
- the Fetch-Decode-Execute cycle or FDE within different architectures;
- pipelining, or how a CPU decides what to prioritize and the challenges faced when doing so;
- types of memory and their uses;
- the process that high level code, such as C#, goes through to get converted into machine code;
- assembly code, an interim step between high level and machine level code; and
- how assembling and compiling work together to produce object code or executable files.
To get the most out of this course, learners should already be familiar with basic Boolean algebra and have experience of programming in object code, such as Python or C.
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Syllabus
Welcome to the Course
Meet your instructors and learn what you can expect from the course.
Module 1: Introduction to the CPU
This first module will introduce you to the central processing unit, or CPU, of a computer. We will introduce the basic components of a computer before introducing the components of the CPU itself. We'll help you understand the different types of memory inside a computer, registers within the CPU, and the data lines, or buses, which are used to carry data and instructions around the CPU. Finally, you will be introduced to the concept of binary instructions and their component parts,
opcodes, operands, and addressing modes, as well as an insight into why binary is so important in the world of computers.
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Activities
Create a study guide
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Improve your retention of course material by compiling a comprehensive study guide that summarizes key concepts and definitions.
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Review lecture notes, textbooks, and other course materials.
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Identify and extract important concepts, definitions, and formulas.
-
Organize the information in a logical and easy-to-follow format.
Learn about the ARM architecture
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Build a solid foundation in CPU and microprocessor architecture by reviewing detailed tutorials about the ARM architecture.
Browse courses on
Arm Architecture
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-
Identify reputable sources for tutorials on ARM architecture.
-
Review tutorials to gain an understanding of the ARM architecture's components and functionality.
-
Complete practice exercises and quizzes to reinforce your understanding.
Explore the Fetch-Decode-Execute cycle
Show steps
Gain a clear understanding of the Fetch-Decode-Execute cycle by following guided tutorials that explain the process step-by-step.
Show steps
-
Locate comprehensive tutorials on the Fetch-Decode-Execute cycle.
-
Follow the tutorials to learn about each stage of the cycle.
-
Complete interactive simulations or exercises to reinforce your understanding.
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Form a study group
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Enhance your learning by joining or forming a study group to discuss course material, solve problems, and quiz each other.
Show steps
-
Identify classmates who share your interest in forming a study group.
-
Set regular meeting times and establish a study schedule.
-
Take turns leading discussions, presenting material, and testing each other's understanding.
Read 'Computer Architecture: A Quantitative Approach'
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of computer architecture by reading a comprehensive book that covers advanced concepts related to CPU and microprocessor design.
Show steps
-
Obtain a copy of 'Computer Architecture: A Quantitative Approach'.
-
Read the assigned chapters and take notes.
-
Complete the end-of-chapter exercises to test your comprehension.
Create a presentation on microprocessor components
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Solidify your understanding of microprocessor components by creating a presentation that explains their functions and interactions.
Browse courses on
Computer Architecture
Show steps
-
Identify the key components of a microprocessor.
-
Research the functionality and interactions of each component.
-
Create slides that visually represent the components and their relationships.
-
Present your findings to an audience.
Volunteer at a local tech organization
Show steps
Gain practical experience and deepen your understanding of microprocessors by volunteering at a tech organization that focuses on microprocessor-based systems.
Show steps
-
Research local tech organizations that work with microprocessors.
-
Contact the organizations to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
-
Attend volunteer training and orientation programs.
-
Assist with tasks related to microprocessor-based systems, such as testing, troubleshooting, or documentation.
Create a study guide
Show steps
Improve your retention of course material by compiling a comprehensive study guide that summarizes key concepts and definitions.
Show steps
- Review lecture notes, textbooks, and other course materials.
- Identify and extract important concepts, definitions, and formulas.
- Organize the information in a logical and easy-to-follow format.
Learn about the ARM architecture
Show steps
Build a solid foundation in CPU and microprocessor architecture by reviewing detailed tutorials about the ARM architecture.
Browse courses on
Arm Architecture
Show steps
- Identify reputable sources for tutorials on ARM architecture.
- Review tutorials to gain an understanding of the ARM architecture's components and functionality.
- Complete practice exercises and quizzes to reinforce your understanding.
Explore the Fetch-Decode-Execute cycle
Show steps
Gain a clear understanding of the Fetch-Decode-Execute cycle by following guided tutorials that explain the process step-by-step.
Show steps
- Locate comprehensive tutorials on the Fetch-Decode-Execute cycle.
- Follow the tutorials to learn about each stage of the cycle.
- Complete interactive simulations or exercises to reinforce your understanding.
Form a study group
Show steps
Enhance your learning by joining or forming a study group to discuss course material, solve problems, and quiz each other.
Show steps
- Identify classmates who share your interest in forming a study group.
- Set regular meeting times and establish a study schedule.
- Take turns leading discussions, presenting material, and testing each other's understanding.
Read 'Computer Architecture: A Quantitative Approach'
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of computer architecture by reading a comprehensive book that covers advanced concepts related to CPU and microprocessor design.
Show steps
- Obtain a copy of 'Computer Architecture: A Quantitative Approach'.
- Read the assigned chapters and take notes.
- Complete the end-of-chapter exercises to test your comprehension.
Create a presentation on microprocessor components
Show steps
Solidify your understanding of microprocessor components by creating a presentation that explains their functions and interactions.
Browse courses on
Computer Architecture
Show steps
- Identify the key components of a microprocessor.
- Research the functionality and interactions of each component.
- Create slides that visually represent the components and their relationships.
- Present your findings to an audience.
Volunteer at a local tech organization
Show steps
Gain practical experience and deepen your understanding of microprocessors by volunteering at a tech organization that focuses on microprocessor-based systems.
Show steps
- Research local tech organizations that work with microprocessors.
- Contact the organizations to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
- Attend volunteer training and orientation programs.
- Assist with tasks related to microprocessor-based systems, such as testing, troubleshooting, or documentation.
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