Mar - Jun 2023

This unit is an introduction to fundamentals of computer organization: roles of processors, main memory, and input/output devices. The concept of programs as sequences of machine instructions is explained. Machine language and assembly language and their relationship with high-level compiled languages is discussed. Number representation is introduced and the discussion centres on how different types of data may be represented inside a computer. Arithmetic and logical operations with integer operands. Understanding floating-point number systems and operations. Memory organization, including cache structures and virtual memory schemes. Machine representation of instructions and data, addressing techniques, memory organization, and execution of instructions at machine level. A brief introduction to operating systems and their operations is presented. How the various computer components process the data is explained. How the operating system and the hardware cooperate to make computer operations possible and efficient. The problem of resources allocation is discussed.

The subject also includes discussion of the basics of digital logic including the major logical gates and logical circuits.

This unit focuses on introductory theories and techniques for web design. History of the web and distinction between it and the Internet is explained. The primary focus of the unit is on design of web sites – how the visual and interactive aspects of websites are designed in ways appropriate for their users. Particular examples of web sites are examined critically to determine their effectiveness for their purpose. Web site organisational framework, designing navigation systems; principles of visual design; differences between static and dynamic page design and scripting is also covered in this unit. Client side scripting and server side scripting.

This unit highlights the important role of computer networking in the society. It is explained that computer networks are like highway networks for society. Fundamentals of networked environments, types of networks including network topologies are covered. The concept of local area networks, local area networks fundamentals, local area networks design, internetworking – IP, internetworking and standards, packet vs switching, network protocols, networking architecture, Domain name system are also discussed. Network models - OSI Model and TCP/IP Model are discussed and compared. The role of different layers, various media, encoding schemes at physical layer and digital modulation techniques are explored.