Instructor: Scott Beamer

Lecture: MWF 9:20-10:25AM

Prerequisites: undergraduate computer architecture course e.g. CSE 120

This course will cover computer architecture concepts at the graduate level, providing students with an understanding of how processors work and how they are designed. In particular the course will cover:

Architecture Basics and In-order Processors - performance, technology trends, ISAs, pipelining, caches, virtual memory

Dynamic Scheduling and Speculation - out-of-order processors, branch prediction

Parallelism - multicore, multithreading, coherence, consistency, vector, VLIW

Course materials on Canvas

Course discussion on Piazza 

Frequently Asked Questions (about enrollment)

Q: Is the course going online? A: Yes, but we prefer the term remote. The course is not automated, and there are still human staff members supporting the class. It just so happens that meetings occur over Zoom instead of in-person.

Q: Can I enroll as an undergrad? A: We are typically able to accomodate undergrads who have already taken CSE 120 and done well in it. If you are interested, please fill out this form to notify the instructor of your interest. After the first day of class and we know there is room (need to prioritize grad students), we will help get you enrolled.

Q: Should I do anything to prepare for remote learning? A: Double check your internet meets the campus connectivity requirements.

Q: How will we access the class? A: There will be a link for a live Zoom and a link to recordings on the Canvas page (accessible for those enrolled). If you are not initially enrolled, be sure to fill out the interest form, so I know to email those links.

Q: When does the class start? A: The first lecture will start on Monday (1/4/21) at 9:20am.