Summary of this ECE1718 Spring 2003

The focus of this course will be on computer architecture, with an emphasis on real life modern and emerging microprocessor architectures. The course is divided into two phases. The first phase will provide a thorough (but speedy) background in modern microprocessor architecture, covering instruction-sets, pipelining, multiple and out-of-order instruction issue, the memory system and caching, and parallel architectures; this phase will include several homeworks which provide hands-on experience with architectural simulation of the mechanisms described in class, as well as preparation for the project. The second phase of the course will switch gears: we will study current research and development of emerging architectures including simultaneous multithreading, reconfigurable/programmable hybrids, grid processors, network processors, thread-level speculation, and architectures for nanotechnology; in this phase we will read research papers, and through the class project implement and evaluate new ideas. Students are welcome to suggest topics for class discussion and/or projects.