CSE4/529: Algorithms for Modern Computing Systems

Fall 2019

Prof. Russ Miller

338F Davis Hall
716.645.4737 (rarely, if ever, answered)

Read this before sending e-mail to miller@buffalo.edu

Overview: This course is concerned with the design, analysis, and implementation of algorithms for sequential and parallel models of computation. Traditional algorithmic techniques, including divide-and-conquer, will be discussed. Models of computation include the traditional RAM, as well as standard parallel models, including the shared-memory PRAM, as well as networked models configured as arrays, rings, meshes, hypercubes, and pyramids. We also consider innovative parallel models that involve dynamic reconfiguration. In addition, we discuss algorithmic strategies for Network of Workstations, clusters, grids, and clouds. Problem domains include computational geometry, graph theory, image analysis, sorting, and searching. Time, space, and processor complexity of solutions to problems are a critical component to the course.

Prerequisites:

Lecture: TTh, 2:00p-3:20p, Davis 101

Recitations: As of Fall, 2019, recitations are no longer provided as part of this course. This was a departmental decision.

Important University Information:

  • Important Dates
  • Important Information

    Required Reading Material:

    Projected Order of Material:

    Grading Policy:

    1. CSE 4/529 is a graduate-level course in Algorithms. CSE 429 students will be graded separately and on a different scale from CSE 529 students.
    2. Graded Materials
      • CSE429
        • A maximum of 1 point per week (10 points maximum) for attending a TAs office hour and having a significant discussion with the TA on CSE429 material: 10% of your grade.
        • Midterm I: 25% of your grade.
        • Midterm II: 30% of your grade.
        • Final Exam: 35% of your grade.
        • Extra Credit: Minimum of 6 points, presented in no guaranteed distribution, over the exams.
      • CSE529
        • Midterm I: 30% of your grade.
        • Midterm II: 30% of your grade.
        • Final Exam: 40% of your grade.
        • Extra Credit: Minimum of 6 points, presented in no guaranteed distribution, over the exams.
    3. Course Grades
      • CSE 429 Final Letter Grades. These are the final "curved" grades. These numbers include the additional bonus points (i.e., there will be more than 100 points available in the course). There will be "+"s and "-"s that will be determined after the numeric grading for the semester is complete.
        • A: 75+
        • B: 60+
        • C: 50+
        • D: 35+
        • F: <35
      • CSE 529 Final Letter Grades. These are the final "curved" grades. These numbers include the additional bonus points (i.e., there will be more than 100 points available in the course). There will be "+"s and "-"s that will be determined after the numeric grading for the semester is complete.
        • A: 85+
        • B: 75+
        • C: 60+
        • D: 50+
        • F: <50
    4. Sample Exams (Midterms only)

    Disclaimer: I reserve the right to change any part of this tentative syllabus at any time.



    Copyright © 2019 by Russ Miller.

    All rights reserved. No part of this document may be used in any form by any electronic or mechanical means without permission in writing by the author.