CS3156C: Introduction to Automata Theory

Time: MWF 1-2, Location: Van Leer (EE) C456

Instructor: Ion Mandoiu
Office Hours: MWF 12:30-1:00, 2:00-2:30, or by appt.
Office: CCB 245
Phone: 894-9443
E-mail: mandoiu@cc.gatech.edu
Teaching Assistant: David Cardoze
Office Hours: TTh 2-3
Office: CCB 245
Phone: 894-9443
E-mail: cardoze@cc.gatech.edu

Newsgroup: git.cc.class.3156
Web page: http://www.cc.gatech.edu/classes/cs3156c_98_fall/

General Description: Study of fundamental concepts in the formal theory of automata, emphasizing finite state machines, Turing machines, and computational power of machines. Topics to be covered:

Textbook: M. Sipser, Introdution to the Theory of Computation (the above topics roughly correspond to chapters 1--4).

Prerequisites: Familiarity with proof methods and mathematical concepts covered in CS1155 and MATH3012. If you lack this familiarity you may be able to catch up, but make this effort in the first few weeks of classes, and be prepared to spend a lot of time on it.

Homework assignments: Assignments will be handed out in class, and also posted on the class web page (solutions will also be posted here). Plan to spend a fair amount of time on the homework assignments. Always try first to solve the problems by yourself; seek outside help only if you get stuck. You are allowed to discuss homework solutions with other students in the class, however, you should not share written answers. Write on your assignment the names of those with whom you discussed solutions.

Grading:
Non-graduating Graduating
Homeworks -- weekly 30% 30%
Exam I -- Oct. 21 20% 35%
Exam II -- Nov. 11 20% 35%
Final Exam -- Dec. 8 30% --


Homework Assignments