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Free module

Computer systems

Binary, logic gates, the processor and how a computer stores numbers, text and pictures, worked in a hands-on lab.

6 lessons295 min lesson

The lessons

Each lesson is free to read in full. Create a free account to run its commands in a live lab and to sit its quizzes and tasks.

  1. 1 · Virtual machine lab

    Counting in binary and hexadecimal

    I can store whole numbers in binary and hexadecimal.

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  2. 2 · Virtual machine lab

    Storing negative numbers and fractions

    I can store negative and fractional numbers.

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  3. 3 · Virtual machine lab

    How text, pictures and sound become bits

    I can say how text, a picture and a sound become bits.

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  4. 4 · Virtual machine lab

    Working out a circuit's output (logic gates)

    I can work out a logic circuit's output.

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  5. 5 · Virtual machine lab

    Following a processor's steps (fetch-decode-execute)

    I can follow the fetch-decode-execute cycle.

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  6. 6 · Virtual machine lab

    Compilers and interpreters: two ways to translate

    I can say how a compiler and an interpreter differ.

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Worked in a real lab

Every lesson of this module is worked in a lab started for you alone. The labs it uses:

Teaching a class? Set this module for your students with a teacher guide, marked assignments and a lab for every student.