• Description

Computer Fundamentals is an optional third-year course. This course aims to be the entry point to the knowledge of computer architecture. Hence, prior knowledge of this discipline is not needed, but it is convenient to have a basic understanding of arithmetic. In all probability, any professional practice related to these studies will require hardware knowledge. The objective of this course is to acquire the necessary concepts to understand what is a computer and be able to develop any professional activity in its environment. Specifically, in Computer Fundamentals, we will introduce and consolidate the principles of operation of a computer. Thus, the objectives of this subject are: i) To know how to represent information in different systems (binary, hexadecimal, decimal) and do arithmetic operations; ii) to know how to analyze and synthesize combinational and sequential digital circuits used to built a computer

• The subject within the syllabus as a whole

Computer Fundamentals (CF) has a strong relationship with the Structure of Computers course, since it deals with the basic principles of operation and design of computers. In CF, it is studied the principles to design a digital system as a computer. In summary, it is an optional course that has a strong link with the rest of the subjects of the degree. Students will be able to acquire knowledge and practical skills to understand the design of computers, and understanding the principle designs that affect their performance.

• Prior knowledge

There are no defined prerequisites. The contents of the subject can be assimilated without additional material. In any case, it is convenient to have basic notions of arithmetic.

• Learning objectives and results

This subject aims to introduce and consolidate the operating principles of digital circuitry as the basis of digital electronics used in digital systems in general and in digital computers in particular. The objectives of this course are to know how to analyze and synthesize combinational and sequential digital circuits, know how to design digital systems.

The competencies that will be developed in the learning of this subject are listed below.

• Ability to analyze a problem with the appropriate level of abstraction and apply the skills and knowledge acquired to solve it.
• Ability to identify the elements of a computer and its operating principles.
• Ability to analyze the architecture and organization of digital systems and applications on the network.
• Teamwork.

• Content

This course is divided into five different modules:

Module 1: Computer Basics
   1. Introduction. Brief historical perspective
   2. Computers and their use
   3. Hierarchical structure of a computer
   4. Encoding information using binary signals

Module 2: Representation of numerical information
   1. Numbers and representation systems
   2. Representation of numbers on a computer
   3. Other types of representations

Module 3: Combinational logic circuits
   1. Fundamentals of Digital Electronics
   2. Implementation of combinational logic circuits
   3. Combinational blocks

Module 4: Sequential Logic Circuits
   1. Characterization of sequential logic circuits
   2. The Flip-flop D
   3. Sequential blocks
   4. Moore's model

• View the UOC learning resources used in the subject

• Additional information on support tools and learning resources

Students will have access to different book where the contents of the course are explained and study guides to find easily the contents to acquire.

Additionally, the students will have access to VerilUOC, a tool to practice the design of digital circuits, and practice exercises related to optimization using Karnaugh maps and analysis of chronograms

• Guidelines on assessment at the UOC

The assessment process is based on the student's personal work and presupposes authenticity of authorship and originality of the exercises completed.

Lack of authenticity of authorship or originality of assessment tests, copying or plagiarism, the fraudulent attempt to obtain a better academic result, collusion to copy or concealing or abetting copying, use of unauthorized material or devices during assessment, inter alia, are offences that may lead to serious academic or other sanctions.

Firstly, you will fail the course (D/0) if you commit any of these offences when completing activities defined as assessable in the course plan, including the final tests. Offences considered to be misconduct include, among others, the use of unauthorized material or devices during the tests, such as social media or internet search engines, or the copying of text from external sources (internet, class notes, books, articles, other students' essays or tests, etc.) without including the corresponding reference.

And secondly, the UOC's academic regulations state that any misconduct during assessment, in addition to leading to the student failing the course, may also lead to disciplinary procedures and sanctions.

The UOC reserves the right to request that students identify themselves and/or provide evidence of the authorship of their work, throughout the assessment process, and by the means the UOC specifies (synchronous or asynchronous). For this purpose, the UOC may require students to use a microphone, webcam or other devices during the assessment process, and to make sure that they are working correctly.

The checking of students' knowledge to verify authorship of their work will under no circumstances constitute a second assessment.

• View the assessment model