Computer Architecture & Systems

Tutorials:

It all started with...

There is a very good tutorial on UNIX. Though the last chapter connects to quite a lot of detail, the starting chapters are very straight-forward. If you want a much simpler UNIX tutorial, though not half as pretty, click here. There is an advanced DOS batch programming tutorial.

The TechWeb encyclopaedia site can be used to define terms you don't understand. If you just want technical news, go here. Another good source of news is byte.com. There is a jargon definition page.

There is a tutorial section on networks produced by 3Com (the network people) which is well worth a visit, as well as a tutorial from Network Magazine.

There is general HOWTO information at http://www.computing.net/howto/ which progresses to more advanced topics. This is both a Microsoft Windows and Linux information site.

There are also useful tutorials on the PC Construction & Repair page.

There are in-house sections on:

Assessment 2009/2010:

  • Exam (40%)
  • Research Assignment: 60%
    • Provision of IT facilities for a startup private educational Co.
      • (Last updated: 20100225-14:28)
      • Your task is to:
        1. Plan the IT requirements of a startup ICT firm.
        2. The brief is here.
        3. Select items to satisfy the aims of your plan as above.
          • Enumerate the most common computing requirements (software/hardware)
          • Outline alternatives as above
          • Provide broadband access options as required
        4. Sample facilities would comprise computers, printers, Internet access, wired and wireless networking as well as your assessment of the more popular software functions
        5. Ensure that fundamental IT security, at a minimum, is observed
        6. Describe envisaged network solutions
        7. Minimize non-essential expenditure
        8. Work within a given estimated budget
        9. Project layout should be tidy, thorough and professional
        10. ...clarifications will follow if requested...

Assessment 2008/9:

  • Exam (40%): 2009 paper is here
  • Research Assignment: 60%
    • Provision of IT facilities for Culloughty's Country Hostel
      • (Last updated: 20100225-14:21)
      • Hostel Layout
      • Your task is to:
        1. Overview your vision for the IT requirements of Culloughtys Hostel
        2. Provide access to IT facilities for guests & staff
          • Enumerate the most common computing requirements (software/hardware)
          • Outline alternatives as above
          • Provide broadband access options (assume all major ISPs operate in the area)
        3. Facilities should comprise computers, printer(s), computer 'docking' locations, Internet access, wired and wireless networking as well as your assessment of the more popular software functions
        4. Ensure that fundamental IT security, at a minimum, is observed
        5. Describe envisaged network solutions
          • Outline wired and wireless networking withing the hostel
          • Explore obtaining one of a .ie or gTLD domain name for the hostel, comparing benefits
          • Explore possibilities for running the hostel business in house on its own locally based server
        6. Minimize non-essential expenditure
        7. Work below an estimated budget of EUR5,000
        8. Project layout should be tidy, thorough and professional
        9. ...clarifications will follow if requested...

Assessment 2007/8:

Assessment 2006/7:

Assessment 2005/6:

Assessment 2004/5:

  • Exam 40% (2005 paper is here)
  • The research assignment is based on a library with limited financial resources.
    • The brief is here.
    • The floor layout is here.
    • There is more information here.
  • The marking scheme is here.

Assessment 2003/4:

Assessment 2002/3:

Assessment 2001/2:

Assessment 2000/1:

Assessment 1999/2000:

Assessment 1998/9:

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