An introduction to the concepts of microcomputer hardware and software applications in a hands-on environment. Examples are based on the needs of students in the arts and sciences and are intended to give background knowledge and experience in the use of the microcomputer as a tool for many different applications. Topics include the history of technological innovation in microcomputer systems, design and operation, input/output devices, storage media and techniques, communications, operating systems, word processors, spreadsheets, statistics packages, computer-aided design and drawing, database management and system utilities.

An introductory course designed to familiarize the student with modern software development techniques. Emphasis is on problem-solving and structured program design methodologies. Programming projects are implemented in a widely used high-level language. (It is strongly recommended that students have at least one OAC mathematics or science course.) (This course may be "challenged for credit".)

Introduction to analysis of algorithms, data structures, recursion, searching, sorting and software engineering.

(Cross-listed as PC120.)

(Cross-listed as PC200º.)

A comprehensive study of commercial data processing principles, including design strategies, documentation techniques, file structures and access methods. Programming projects are implemented in a widely used file processing language such as COBOL.

A comprehensive study of a commercial microprocessor such as the Motorola 68000, its architecture and assembly language.

An introduction to scientific computation, with substantial use of scientific modelling software. Problems from different disciplines and the computational tools needed to solve them are considered. Topics include: computer representation of numbers, scientific models, visualization tools, an introduction to some numerical methods. (Cross-listed as PC225.)

A continuation of the study of data structures and their applications. Projects and discussions involving queues, stacks, lists, trees and graphs are taken from areas such as text processing, compilers and operating systems.

(Cross-listed as PC300º.)

Design and implementation of advanced computer algorithms, including: complexity of algorithms, software design issues, study of various classes of algorithms including randomized algorithms. Applications from artificial intelligence, networks, and other areas of computer science are presented.

Interfacing the microprocessor with external devices for real-time control hardware and software. Priority interrupt structure and servicing. Practical applications.

Discussion of software development activities, including software process models, analysis, design, implementation, testing, project management and advanced topics. Both traditional and object-oriented methods are considered.

Introduction to database systems. Topics include data models, query languages, database design, recovery and concurrency, integrity and security.

Data communications concepts, with an emphasis on the physical layer. Topics include transmission media, digital data transmission, the evolving digital telephone network and standards organizations.

A detailed examination of a field or topic of interest not covered by the regular program.

The principles, algorithms and techniques of computer graphics. Topics include introduction to graphics hardware, output primitives, two- and three-dimensional geometric transformations, three-dimensional object representation and viewing, illumination models and surface-rendering methods. Graphics software tools will be introduced in this course.

Discrete and continuous simulations, queuing theory.

Topics will include computer classes and evolution, instruction set design, hardwired sequencer design, microprogramming, memory hierarchies, concurrency, multiple-processor systems, fault-tolerant systems and language based machines. Students will be required to design and build a computer, including the design of the instruction set and the control unit. Extensive use of case studies.

Topics include operating system services, file systems, CPU scheduling, memory management, virtual memory, disk scheduling, deadlocks, concurrent processes, protection and distributed systems.

Introduction to the hardware concepts of vision systems for image acquisition and display. Comprehensive coverage of image enhancement, segmentation, feature extraction and classification.

Examination of current concepts and techniques in artificial intelligence and machine learning. Topics include knowledge representation, automated reasoning, machine learning and knowledge-based systems. Extensive use of case studies and current applications.