Learning objectives
The course provides basic information to understand the digital systems operating principles. The course aims at making students to acquire a functional vision of digital systems, to be able to complete simple design experiences, and to become familiar with some of the common basic CAD tools (this last part is carried out in module 2 of the course).
Prerequisites
no
Course unit content
- Introduction to the basic concepts of information theory such as: logical abstraction model, signals, sensors and actuators, logic functions.
- Design of combinational logic networks using elementary building blocks.
- Design and synthesis of combinatorial networks.
- Complex circuit blocks
- Design and synthesis of sequential logics
- Digital system architectures
Full programme
Basic concepts of Information theory (6h)
- Model and levels of logical abstraction
- Signals: analogue and digital representations
- Transducers: sensor and actuator
- A/D and D/A conversion
- Binary numerical system
- Logic function
- Concepts of black-box, I/O, processing, memory and control
Fundamentals of combinational logic networks (6h)
- Logical ports
- Logical operations and expressions
- Boolean algebra
- De Morgan theorems
Synthesis of digital circuits (10 h)
- Truth table
- Canonical functions
- Maps of Karnaugh
- Logic minimization
- Problem of delays and glitches
Combinational building blocks (4h)
- Multiplexer, Decoder, Half Adder, Full Adder
Fundamentals of sequential logical networks (16h)
- Latch and Flip-Flop
- Synthesis of synchronous networks
- Finite State Machines
- Timing of sequential logics
Digital Architecture (6h)
- Arithmetic circuits, counters, shift registers
- ROM, RAM memories
- ALU
- Logical matrices: PAL and PLA
- Programmable circuits (FPGA)
- Functional scheme of a uProcessor
Bibliography
- S. L. Harris, D.M. Harris, “Sistemi digitali e architettura dei calcolatori”, Zanichelli editore
- M. Morris Mano, C.R. Kime, "Reti Logiche", Pearson Prentice Hall
- R. Laschi, M. Prandini, "Reti Logiche", Progetto Leonardo, Bologna
Teaching methods
The course consists of oral lectures that form the basis for the understanding and critical elaboration of the covered topics. Exercises are regularly proposed to develop students' application and design skills.
Assessment methods and criteria
The exam includes an evaluation of laboratory activity and a written test with exercises on the topics covered during the course.
To access the written test of module 1 of the course you must pass the laboratory test (module 2 of the course) which will consist in the development of a project agreed with the teacher of module 2.
Other information
Further information are available on the website http://elly2020.dia.unipr.it/
