Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

English Language to IELTS 6.0 or Pearsons 54 or equivalent. Satisfy admissions or progression requirement for entry to Stage 1 of an engineering degree programme at Level 3, including A-Level Mathematics or equivalent and normally an A-Level in science or equivalent.

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

To introduce students to the basic theory and concepts associated with analogue components and systems, focusing on the operation of semiconductor devices and circuits which are the basis for the modern world. This is followed by an introduction to digital electronics, where students will learn about binary systems and logic circuit design.

Outline Of Syllabus

The analogue part of this module introduces the key concepts of semiconductor devices. Initially, the principles of semiconductor doping and PN junctions will be explored, before diodes, bipolar junction transistors (BJT’s), and metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETS) are introduced. The design, application, and operation of Operational amplifiers (op-amp’s) and op-amp circuits will then be investigated along with their use in typical sensors systems used across the Engineering disciplines (Mechanical, Electrical, and Civil).

The digital electronics part of this module introduces the Binary and Hexadecimal numbering systems and Binary arithmetic. The key concepts of Boolean algebra, logic gates, and combinational and arithmetic circuits will be explored, whilst truth tables, sequential circuits, flip-flops (both D and RS), finite-state machines, and the implementation of arbitrary sequences, e.g., up-down counters will be introduced.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

The mapping of certain AHEPv4 learning outcomes to each intended knowledge outcome is indicated in each point below. By the end of the analogue part of the module a student will be able to:

Recognise and describe the operation of basic semiconductor devices including the diode, BJT, and MOSFET, and the factors which influence their control (C1).

Employ knowledge of electrical engineering principles to design and select appropriate components for basic operational amplifier circuits and sensor systems (C1, C2).

By the end of the digital part of the module a student will be able to:

Identify Binary and Hexadecimal numbering systems and demonstrate their use in logical and arithmetic systems (C1).

Recognise and describe the operation of logic gates and combinational logic, and how they can be applied to the design of arithmetic functions (C1, C2).

Intended Skill Outcomes

The mapping of certain AHEPv4 learning outcomes to each intended skill outcome is indicated in each point below. By the end of the module, it is expected that students will be able to:

Distinguish different semiconductor devices and be able to employ these in different circuits (C1).

Describe and design simple operational amplifier circuits (C1, C2).

Employ Binary and Hexadecimal numbering systems for logical calculations (C1).

Construct basic logic circuits and explain their operation (C1, C2).

Design simple sensor and signal conditioning circuits for engineering measurement. (C1, C2, C6)

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures provide the core material of the course and give students the opportunity to query the material covered. Problem solving is introduced with set questions within these lecture sessions. Laboratory and online computer sessions provide an opportunity to gain practical experience with a variety of instruments and to validate the theory introduced in the lectures.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The examination allows students to demonstrate their ability to solve engineering problems focused on analogue and digital electronics.

The formative assessment allows student to gain experience of online exam questions and to quantify their understanding of the course.

General Notes

N/A