CS 380N - Systems Modeling

Spring 2000

Instructor - J.C. Browne

1. Overview

The objective of the class will be to enable participants to construct abstracted models of systems from which the properties of the realized system can be reliably predicted. The principle focus and the example systems will be performance models of computer systems, particularly distributed and networked computer systems. The course will be practical rather than theoretical. Participants will work with systems and tools from industrial practice and survey recent university research.

2. Approach

The class will be conducted on a seminar basis. The instructor will offer a basic set of lectures and the participants will present reports on their readings and projects.

3. Topics and Coverage

* Methods and techniques for model design and development

* Measurement and parameterization of system models.

* Model validation and validity of predictions.

* Techniques and tools

* University projects, tools and methods.

* Industry practice and tools.

* Case studies.

4. Course Materials

The primary sources for the course will be lecture notes, papers from the recent literature and manuals for research and commercial tools.

5. Work Requirements

Participants may chose either to work with a research system or to execute a case study.

* Research Systems - Each participant who chooses this option will be responsible for one research system for either measurement and/or modeling. This will involve reading the papers on the system, if possible importing and install the software implementing the system and executing a demonstration experiment with the system. Each participant will prepare and deliver one or more presentations and a written report on the chosen system.

Case Study - The participants who choose a case study will carry though the case study using available methods and tools. There will be one or more presentations and a written report on the case study. The instructor has arranged access to projects with local industry.

6. Grades

Grades will be derived from the projects, presentations and reports.