Series 260: Microprocessors
Course 266: How Computers Function-Technician Level
Covers the function and basic operation of each major element of a microprocessor. Explains the structure and purpose of various computer buses. Examines characteristics of different types of main memory in detail. Includes in-depth discussion of both low- and high-level computer languages.
Lesson 1 - Microprocessor Structure
Topics:
CPU; Microcontrollers; Program counter; Branching; Instruction decoders; Subroutines; Stack pointer; ALU; Status bits; System clocks
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the types of microprocessor elements and their functions.
- Describe the types of registers that a microprocessor system typically has.
- Identify the different types of microprocessor clocks and their functions.
- Describe typical microprocessor bus systems.
Lesson 2 - Bus Structures
Topics:
Bus system block diagrams and schematics; Backplanes; Data, address, control, and serial buses; Multiplexing; Bus drivers and standards
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the different types of microprocessor buses.
- Discuss the functions of the different microprocessor system buses.
- Describe the functions of the bus drivers.
- Identify the various industry standards for microprocessor system buses.
Lesson 3 - Memory Devices
Topics:
Main memory; Memory-CPU communication; Expanding memories; Memory characteristics
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss the various types of memories and their characteristics.
- Describe the different ways in which the CPU and memory communicate.
- Explain how single-chip memories are organized.
- Describe different memory-expanding characteristics necessary for microprocessor systems.
Lesson 4 - Low-Level Computer Languages
Topics:
Data representation; Programming models; Operation codes; Addressing modes; Data-handling instructions; Interrupts; Memory-mapped I/O
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the three levels of computer programming languages.
- Define programming models and memory maps.
- Discuss the purpose and function of operation codes.
- Describe addressing modes as they relate to operation codes.
- Explain what machine language and assembly languages are and how they work.
Lesson 5 - High-Level Computer Languages
Topics:
Pros and cons of high-level languages; Compilers; Interpreters; Operating systems; Debuggers
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the characteristics and uses of high-level languages.
- Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of several popular high-level languages.
- Explain how compilers and interpreters work.
- Describe the functions of an operating system.
