Module manager: Dr Craig A. Evans
Email: C.A.Evans@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: 1 Jul to 31 Aug View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
GPA of 2.5 (US) or equivalent and enrolled at a university
This module is not approved as a discovery module
Microprocessor Fundamentals: From Silicon to Code introduces students to the core principles of computer architecture and low-level programming through a hands-on, project-based approach. Using simulation tools, students will design and simulate a functioning microprocessor from the ground up—starting with basic logic gates and progressing to a complete Central Processing Unit (CPU) capable of executing programs. The module covers: • Digital Logic and Architecture: Building foundational components such as logic gates, ALUs, registers, and memory • Microprocessor Design and Simulation: Creating and testing a custom CPU architecture • Machine-Level Programming: Writing and executing programs in assembly language • System Integration: Understanding how hardware and software interact at the lowest level. By the end of the module, students will have hands-on experience in designing a processor and programming it, bridging the gap between hardware design and software execution. This module is a transformative journey and is ideal for those seeking a deep understanding of how computers work—from silicon transistors to executable code.
The objectives of the module are for students to design, implement and simulate a microprocessor, learn how to write assembly code and understand how this code is executed on the hardware.
Students will meet these objectives through a series of computer laboratory sessions following a project-based approach. Each session will focus on designing different blocks and then integrating these blocks together to implement the overall system.
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
1. Describe how a silicon transistor works
2. Design, simulate and test a range of digital circuits
3. Develop computer code in assembly language
4. Explain how software is executed on hardware
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
1. Recognise and understand how parts of a system work together
2. Solve complex design problems
3. Learn and adapt to new technologies to design circuits and write computer code
4. Communicate effectively in written form to produce a technical project report highlighting the design stages and testing results
5. Reflect on knowledge gained and demonstrate learning and growth
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Practicals | 8 | 3 | 24 |
| Fieldwork | 1 | 8 | 8 |
| Fieldwork | 1 | 10 | 10 |
| Independent online learning hours | 15 | ||
| Private study hours | 43 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 42 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 100 | ||
Student progress will be monitored during the computer laboratory sessions. Staff will be on hand to provide support and give verbal formative feedback on their work and progress. In addition, each lab will end with a short formative Minerva quiz on the work completed.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Report | Technical project report (2000 words maximum) | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 03/03/2026
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