James M. Conrad
University of Arkansas, Computer Systems Engineering
313 Engineering Hall,
Fayetteville, AR 72701-1201
Office: (501) 575-6039 ~ FAX: (501) 575-5339
e-mail: jmc3@engr.engr.uark.edu
A Senior-level course at the University of Arkansas provides a current yet inexpensive method to teach computer hardware design. The course, Computer Hardware Organization, is cross listed between the Electrical (ELEG) and Computer Systems (CSEG) Engineering Departments. The major objective of the course is to acquaint the student with basic computer hardware organization and to provide hands-on experience in designing a single board computer. The major vehicle for learning is based on ten design or lab assignments. Each assignment requires initial specification of the problem and a proposed design of the solution (prelab). Students design and simulate their solution using accurate timing models of components (Smart Models). Students write a report for each assignment justifying their design decisions and describing their experiences with the design and simulation process.
It should be noted that ``hands-on'' relates to designing their circuit via computer-aided design (CAD) tools, and not breadboarding and wiring the design.
Students entering the class will have take a ELEG or CSEG digital systems design and an ELEG microprocessor organization course.
Since this course uses the Motorola 68000 as a base of the single board computer, students are restricted to a book with a detailed hardware design built around this chip. Two books in particular have some good sections, but each books does not provide all the material needed. These books are:
The books are optional and available in the campus bookstore. Students often pair up and purchase one book between them.
Two references are required: the Motorola 68000 User's Manual, and the CSEG/ELEG 4983 Assignment Procedures and Exercises Manual. The Assignment Manual contains the specifications for each of the assignments, CAD tools information, and helpful hints.
Four optional references include:
