In contrast to application programming whose focus is to develop software providing services to the user, systems programming addresses software that interacts with computer systems on a low-level. In this sense, systems programming uncovers the dependency between software and the hardware executing it and forces the programmer to deal with low-level system knowledge. This knowledge is relevant not only to developing efficient software but also in systems with limited resources, e.g., embedded systems like robots, vehicles, and IoT devices. This lecture and the exercises provide the basis to understand and develop such system programs. In this course, the following topics will be discussed:
- Basics of computer systems
- Machine-level representation of programs
- Optimizing program performance
- Memory hierarchy
- Linking
- System-Level I/O
- Network programming
- Concurrent programming
The exercises will provide hands-on experience in systems programming to understand the interdependence between software and the computer system executing it. Basic knowledge of the C language is required.
Place and Time:
At the present time, we are planning on offering this course in presence for every student that can and wants to participate. In addition, we will provide access to video recordings prepared during the previous semesters via the Moodle page of this course.
The lecture will take place on Thursdays from 10:00 to 12:00 in Room S-A 215.
The first lecture takes place on October 12th, 2023.
The exercises will take place on Wednesdays from 12:00 to 14:00 in Room S-E 407 and on Thursdays from 16:00 to 18:00 in our Online Lecture Room.
The first exercise session takes place on October 18th, 2023.
Please make sure to register at the Moodle page of the course so that we can inform you about changes.
The password for the self-enrollment (valid until the end of October) is: SysProg-WiSe2324
Exam:
The module is accompanied by a corresponding examination in the form of a written exam on the common goals of lecture and exercises (usually 90 minutes). Successful participation in the exercises is a prerequisite for admission to the module examination. The students collecting 80-89% of the points in the exercises receive a grade bonus of 0.3/0.4, for 90% of the points or more a grade bonus of 0.6/0.7.
The lecture and exercises will be held in English.
Moodle page: Link.
Registration to the Moodle course will be possible near the start of the lecture period.