Introduction to Computer Systems
UndergraduateRMI-CPT1602023
Course information for 2023 intake
Build and design integrated computer systems that power organisations. Explore new network technology. Map and navigate computer architecture. Learn to select, deploy, integrate and manage new platforms to support existing operating environments.
Enrolments for this course are closed, but you may have other options to start studying now. Book a consultation to learn more.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- Subject may require attendance
- Entry requirements
- Part of a degree
- Duration
- 13 weeks
- Loan available
- HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP available
Introduction to Computer Systems
About this subject
Upon successful completion of this course you should be able to:
- describe some of the fundamental hardware building blocks of computer systems and some basic algorithms by which they are used
- demonstrate understanding of number systems, such as binary, octal, decimal and hexadecimal.
- use Boolean algebra to model basic algorithms in hardware using logic gates such as binary addition/multiplication, template pattern matching, stream encryption, data multiplexing,
- describe fundamentals of computer architecture and organisation, operating systems, and system integration and deployment
- critically review and (re-)design existing computer system specifications for meeting stated performance criteria.
- Describe the layered networking model, basic networking protocols and ways in which data is encoded and transmitted
- Introduction / Number Systems
- Digital Logic
- Technological Platforms / Computer Architecture
- Processors / Processing
- Memory / Mass Storage
- System Integration / Use Cases
- Hardware Failure / Error Correction
- Hardware Platforms
- Software Platforms
- Interfacing / Operating Systems
- Networking
One of the roles of the IT professional is to design and build systems and integrate them into an organization.
You should encounter a variety of platforms in your career. The role of the IT professional is to select, deploy, integrate and administer platforms or components to support the organisation’s IT infrastructure. This course aims to cover the skills in the fundamentals of hardware and software and how they integrate to form essential components of IT systems. It aims to develop skills and concepts that are essential to the administration of operating systems, networks, software, and file systems, file servers, web systems In addition it provides an introduction to networking concepts and components that are in common use, including mobile telephony and networks. It also aims to develop the skills to gather requirements, source, evaluate and integrate components into a single system, and validate the system.
- Assignment 2 (20%)
- Assignment 1 (20%)
- Invigilated Exam (50%)
- Online Test(s) (10%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
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Entry requirements
To enrol in this subject, you must be admitted into a degree.
Prior study
To help set you up for success before you start this subject, we suggest completing or having equivalent knowledge in:
Additional requirements
- Other requirements -
Stable broadband connection required to access online learning materials and live chat sessions/recordings. (note: mobile broadband users may have difficulties participating in live chat sessions)
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.