Module Title:Instrument Systems
Language of Instruction:English
Credits: 5
NFQ Level:6
Module Delivered In No Programmes
Teaching & Learning Strategies: Lectures will be delivered using PowerPoint, handouts and interactive learning techniques. Theoretical material will be supported by a set of practical exercises.
Module Aim: To provide the student with an appreciation of how the different electronic instruments function on a modern flight deck.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1 Describe and identify the different instruments and display types used on the flight deck
LO2 Explain the implication of software design in the development cycle of aircraft systems
LO3 Describe and categorise the phenomena of the electromagnetic and electrostatic environment on aircraft systems and examine the procedures required to reduce their effects
LO4 Discuss and illustrate the general arrangement of typical electronic and digital systems installed in civilian aircraft
LO5 Discuss the different types of databus systems on modern aircraft.
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed.
No requirements listed
 

Module Content & Assessment

Indicative Content
Electronic Instrument Systems
Typical systems arrangements and cockpit layout of electronic instrument systems
Electronic Displays
Principles of operation of common types of displays used in modern aircraft, including Cathode Ray Tubes, Light Emitting Diodes and Liquid Crystal Display.
Electrostatic Sensitive Devices
Special handling of components sensitive to electrostatic discharges; Awareness of risks and possible damage, component and personnel anti-static protection devices
Software Management Control
Awareness of restrictions, airworthiness requirements and possible catastrophic effects of unapproved changes to software programmes.
Electromagnetic Environment
Influence of the following phenomena on maintenance practices for electronic system: EMC-Electromagnetic Compatibility, EMI-Electromagnetic Interference, HIRF-High Intensity Radiated Field, Lightning/lightning protection
Typical Electronic/Digital Aircraft Systems
General arrangement of typical electronic/digital Aircraft Systems and associated BITE (Built In Test Equipment) testing such as: ACARS-ARINC Communication and Addressing and Reporting System, ECAM-Electronic Centralised Aircraft Monitoring, ADS,EFIS-Electronic Flight Instrument System, EICAS-Engine Indication and Crew Alerting System, FBW-Fly by Wire, FMS-Flight Management System, GPS-Global Positioning System, IRS-Inertial Reference System, TCAS-Traffic Alert Collision Avoidance System. . Integrated Modular Avionics, Cabin Systems, Information Systems. MEMS sensors
Databuses
Operation of data bus in aircraft systems including knowledge of ARINC and other applications. Aircraft Network / Ethernet
Assessment Breakdown%
Continuous Assessment10.00%
Practical20.00%
End of Module Formal Examination70.00%
Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type Assessment Description Outcome addressed % of total Assessment Date
Other Students will be assigned a number of assignments as part of this module. 1,2,3,5 10.00 Week 6
No Project
Practical
Assessment Type Assessment Description Outcome addressed % of total Assessment Date
Practical/Skills Evaluation Students will complete assignments during the course of the module. Students will be required to maintain a laboratory logbook and write a brief report on each assignment. 1,3,4 20.00 n/a
End of Module Formal Examination
Assessment Type Assessment Description Outcome addressed % of total Assessment Date
Formal Exam A final written examination will assess the learning outcomes to the full extent. 1,2,3,4,5 70.00 End-of-Semester

SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload
Lecture Every Week 2.50
Practicals Every Week 1.00
Independent Learning Every Week 1.00
Total Hours 4.50