The Computer Architecture Laboratory employs models and experiments at different abstraction levels to explore various aspects of computer architectures. These range from models implemented in reconfigurable logic to simulations of computer architectures on large clusters. Models and simulations are very useful, but not sufficient in all cases. To circumvent this problem, the lab is equipped to design and construct hardware experimental platforms. The ability to both make models and simulators as well as to construct experimental hardware platforms makes it possible for the Lab to work on projects at all abstraction levels.

The Lab is also an integral part of several educational programs and is extensively used by the students taking the annual Computer Design Project (TDT4295). The students design their own hardware and software to solve a nontrivial task as seen in this video of one of the 2016 projects (in Norwegian).