M3: Interacting with the Kernel Using C

This third module explores how processes begin to interact with the operating system and kernel. Specifically, when a process needs to request an operating system service such as system call request. We will begin by learning the basics of C programming and then how it interacts with the kernel.

Pre-recorded Lectures

Note: Professor Samuels will state on Ed when the prerecorded videos are ready to be viewed each week for a module.

The pre-recorded lectures are available here: M3 Videos. You can also find the videos under the “Panopto” tab on the MPCS 51082 canvas site.

The lectures are a series of approx 15-20 minute videos. Please come back here weekly as the videos will be updated if a module spans multiple weeks. This module includes the following videos:

  • 3.1: C Functions

  • 3.2: Compound Data Types: Arrays, Structs

  • 3.3: C Strings

  • 3.4: Header Files & Array of Strings

  • 3.5: Static vs Dynamic Memory Allocation

  • 3.6: Command Line Arguments & Environment List

  • 3.7: Exceptions and System Calls

  • 3.8: System Calls

The slides presented in these videos are accessible in the upstream repository.

Resources/Readings

  • The slides and code presented in this module are accessible in the upstream repository.

  • The Linux Programming Interface: A Linux and UNIX System Programming Handbook readings:

    • Chapter 3.1-3.6

Synchronous Sessions (In-person Lecture)

As a reminder here are the dates and times for the synchronous session for this module:

Week 4

  • Dates/Times

    • Section 1: Monday October 16th 10:20am-12:20pm

    • Section 2: Thursday October 19th 5:30pm-7:20pm

  • Session Outline

    • C Bootcamp: learning the basics of the language

Week 5

  • Dates/Times

    • Section 1: Monday October 23rd 10:20am-12:20pm

    • Section 2: Thursday October 26th 5:30pm-7:20pm

  • Session Outline

    • Pointers in C

    • Memory Allocation in C

Assignment

Assignments are always due on Friday evenings.