Module Provider: |
Computer Science |
Number of credits: |
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Level: |
I (Intermediate) |
Terms in which taught: |
Autumn, Spring and Summer |
Module Convenor: |
Dr
SA
Williams |
Pre-requisites: |
CS1TT2
|
Co-requisites: |
|
Modules excluded: |
|
Current from: |
2005/6 |
Aims:
This module will extend the students' experience of PC-based systems gained in the first year by teaching them about typical large-scale systems based on mainframes, minis and distributed or client/server architectures. Students who complete the module will have the basic knowledge to set up, maintain and support such systems. |
Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module, it is expected that the student will:
describe the architecture of typical mainframe, mini, distributed and client/server systems
explain the considerations and constraints to be taken into account when designing such systems
appreciate the factors that bear on the performance and usability of such systems
have experience of a range of large machine operating systems
describe the characteristics of complex communications environments with particular reference to wide area networks
exemplify typical applications and packages that are used on such systems
explain the requirements for user support in such environments. |
Additional outcomes:
The module also aims to encourage the development of the following skills:
the ability to support users of computer systems
the ability to analyse and make informed decisions on infrastructure requirements. |
Outline content:
Architecture: the underlying architecture of large scale systems
Hardware: hardware used in large-scale systems; processors, peripherals, communications devices
Software: operating systems such as UNIX, LINUX, NT, etc and typical applications and software packages
Communications: local and wide area networks as applied to large-scale systems including switching, multiplexing, routing and packet switching
Performance characteristics: factors that contribute to and constrain performance and usability of large-scale systems
User support: an appreciation of the methods used to support users and the accumulation of the knowledge required to perform such a role in a large-scale system environment. |
Brief description of teaching
and learning methods:
Teaching will be partly theoretical with substantial practical experience of as many relevant environments as can be provided. This is a module that would benefit from involving students in practical experience of real-world environments. This could be done by visits or by inviting speakers from outside. |
Contact hours:
| |
Autumn |
Spring |
Summer |
| Lectures |
10 |
10 |
4 |
| Tutorials/seminars |
|
|
|
| Practicals |
20 |
20 |
8 |
| Other contact (eg study visits) |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Total hours |
30 |
30 |
12 |
| |
|
|
|
| Number of essays or assignments |
1 (report) |
1 (report) + 10 (practical tasks) |
4 (practical tasks) |
| Other (eg major seminar paper) |
|
|
|
|
Assessment:
Coursework
One report based on the analysis of scenarios will be required in each of the first two terms.
Students will continue to support other students to simulate support activities.
Penalties for late submission of course work will be in accordance with University policy.
Examinations
A 1½ hour examination will test the theoretical aspects of the module. The examination will constitute 70% of the marks for the module.
Requirements for a pass
Students will be required to obtain an overall mark of 40% based on the practical tests and the examination.
Re-assessment
Students will be re-examined in September. |
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