Computer Architecture

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/comparch

Introduction

### Course Review: Computer Architecture on Coursera If you're looking to delve into the intricacies of computer systems and gain a comprehensive understanding of modern microprocessor architecture, the "Computer Architecture" course available on Coursera is an excellent choice. This free course provides learners with both foundational and advanced concepts essential for designing complex microprocessors. Although it does not offer a certification, the knowledge you acquire will be invaluable for anyone venturing into the field of computer architecture. #### Overview of the Course The "Computer Architecture" course is structured to take you through various layers of computer design, from instruction set architecture to complex multiprocessor designs. The course is segmented into detailed modules that guide learners through essential topics, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of how microprocessors function and are built. #### Syllabus Breakdown Here's a closer look at what the course covers: 1. **Introduction, Instruction Set Architecture, and Microcode**: Begin with an overview of computer architecture fundamentals, including definitions of architecture, micro-architecture, and how instruction sets operate. 2. **Pipelining Review**: Learn about the concept of pipelining and investigate the different types of hazards that can occur in processors. 3. **Cache Review**: This section dives into control hazards and the motivations behind implementing caches to enhance processor efficiency. 4. **Superscalar Architecture**: Across multiple lectures, the course covers key characteristics of superscalar architectures, common issues, and methods like register renaming and memory disambiguation that contribute to their performance. 5. **Very Long Instruction Word (VLIW) Processors**: You'll explore the unique approach of VLIW architectures, including performance improvements. 6. **Branch Prediction**: Delve into the motivation behind branch predictors and their implementation in processors. 7. **Advanced Cache Mechanisms**: The course contains two lectures focused on advanced mechanisms for improving cache performance, essential for optimizing CPU speeds. 8. **Memory Protection & Management**: This section addresses critical aspects of memory management and the protection of data in systems. 9. **Vector Processors and GPUs**: Understand optimizations specific to vector processors and graphic processing units (GPUs). 10. **Multithreading and Parallel Programming**: These lectures introduce multithreading concepts and practical solutions for consistency issues in parallel programming, which are increasingly relevant in today's multi-core processing environments. 11. **Multiprocessor Design**: Gain insights into small multiprocessor configurations and interconnect designs, including network topology considerations for larger systems. 12. **Large Multiprocessors**: The course concludes with a focus on directory protocols motivating coherence in larger multiprocessor systems. #### Why You Should Enroll - **Comprehensive Coverage**: The course's syllabus is thorough, covering a wide array of topics that will benefit both beginners and professionals seeking to enhance their understanding of computer architecture. - **No Cost**: All features of this course are available for free, making it accessible to anyone, regardless of their financial situation. - **Flexible Learning**: The online format allows you to learn at your own pace, fitting into your schedule without the pressure of strict deadlines. - **No Certification Necessary**: While it’s often nice to have credentials, many in the tech industry value skills and knowledge over certificates. This course focuses entirely on delivering substantive content rather than fluff. - **Relevant in Today's Job Market**: With the increasing complexity and necessity of optimized architecture in the tech industry, the skills learned here will be valuable in various computer science and IT roles. #### Recommendation If you have a passion for technology and aspire to deepen your understanding of how computers work at a foundational level, this course is highly recommended. Whether you’re a student, an aspiring IT professional, or simply someone with a keen interest in technology, the "Computer Architecture" course on Coursera will provide you with essential knowledge that is both relevant and practical. Embark on this learning journey today, and unlock the potential of modern microprocessor design!

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.

This lecture covers the basic concept of pipeline and two different types of hazards.

This lecture covers control hazards and the motivation for caches.

This lecture covers cache characteristics and basic superscalar architecture.

This lecture covers the common issues for superscalar architecture.

This lecture covers different kinds of architectures for out-of-order processors.

This lecture covers the common methods used to improve the performance of out-of-order processors including register renaming and memory disambiguation.

This lecture covers the basic concept of very long instruction word (VLIW) processors.

This lecture covers the common methods used to improve VLIW performance.

This lecture covers the motivation and implementation of branch predictors.

This lecture covers the advanced mechanisms used to improve cache performance.

This lecture covers more advanced mechanisms used to improve cache performance.

This lecture covers memory management and protection.

This lecture covers the vector processor and optimizations for vector processors.

This lecture covers different types of multithreading.

This lecture covers the concepts of parallelism, consistency models, and basic parallel programming techniques.

This lecture covers the solutions for the consistency problem in parallel programming.

This lecture covers the implementation of small multiprocessors.

This lecture covers the design of interconnects for a multiprocessor.

This lecture covers the design of interconnects for multiprocessor and network topology.

This lecture covers the motivation and implementation of directory protocol used for coherence on large multiproccesors.