Module overview
This module focuses on how to create real electronic systems. It covers 'building block' circuits using bipolar transistors and looks at the use of op-amps and comparators. It also covers how to deliver timing in circuits. It covers the basic operation of filters and power supplies.
The module also looks at the how computer systems are designed and constructed, focussing on simple processors. It considers how data is processed and manipulated, communication via buses. It also looks at operating systems (including real-time systems), performance and benchmarking. We also look at development toolchains (how to get from C to optimised machine code).
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Subject Specific Practical Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Analysing simple circuits containing active elements such as bipolar transistors and op-amps.
- Implementing an operating system on an embedded device.
- Applying links between mathematical concepts and a range of engineering problems.
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Applying key circuit analysis theory to allow the abstraction of problems.
- Use simulation to investigate a range of problems related to electronic circuits.
- Using feedback in circuit design, and explain its importance.
- Processing high-level code into assembly and machine code.
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- The properties of filters and power supplies.
- Circuit analysis for transistor and op-amp based circuits, including oscillators.
- The component parts of computer systems.
Syllabus
Computer Architecture
- Processor architectures, instruction sets, and the datapath
- Pipelining, hazards and forwarding
- Memory systems, cache, file systems
- Interfacing and I/O
Computer Systems and Software
- Assembly language, its relationship to machine code and higher-level languages (such as C)
- Development toolchains, compilation and optimisation
- Operating systems (inc. real-time) vs freestanding C
- Performance and benchmarking, power consumption, power modes
Transistor Modelling and Circuits
- Ebers Moll Model for the bipolar transistor and its modifications
- Hybrid pi model and high frequency effects
- SPICE parameters for bipolar transistors
- Common emitter, common base and common collector amplifiers, differential pair.
- Bode Diagram, Bandwidth, low and high frequency effects, Miller effect
Oscillators and Timing
- Ring and relaxation oscillators
- Colpitts and Hartley oscillators
- Crystal oscillators
System aspects
- Limitations of real op-amps (e.g. slew rate, input/output range, offset voltage and current, noise sources)
- Applications of operational amplifiers and comparators
- Properties and applications of analogue filters
- Properties of linear and switching regulators
- System-level stability: decoupling, ground loops, basics of EMC and screening
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
The content of this module is delivered through lectures, module website, directed reading and tutorials.
Students work on their understanding through a combination of independent study, preparation for timetabled activities, tutorials, and problem classes, along with formative assessments in the form of problem sheets.
Students work on their practical skills in laboratories.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 36 |
| Follow-up work | 18 |
| Specialist Laboratory | 6 |
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 6 |
| Revision | 16 |
| Wider reading or practice | 51 |
| Completion of assessment task | 15 |
| Tutorial | 6 |
| Total study time | 154 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
Patterson D. A. and Hennessy J. L, (2014). Computer Organization and Design: The Hardware/Software Interface, 5th edition,. Morgan Kaufmann.
W. Stallings, (2015). Computer Organization and Architecture,. Prentice Hall,.
Wilson P R (2012). The Circuit Designers Companion.
Assessment
Assessment strategy
This module is assessed by a combination of problem sheets, assessed laboratories and a final assessment in the form of a written examination.
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Examination | 80% |
| Problem Sheets | 10% |
| Laboratory | 10% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Examination | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Examination | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External