(a) A combination of lectures, class discussion, tutorials, practicals and demonstrations will be used.
(b) Particular emphasis will be placed on active learning including problem/project based learning
Module Aim:
To introduce students to the fundamentals of digital electronic systems and microprocessor hardware
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1
Describe the operation of, and analyze using Boolean algebra techniques, combinational and sequential components and circuits
LO2
Explain the operation of a microprocessor-based system including operation of bus, memory and input/output.
LO3
Design and implement significant combinatorial digital circuits using conventional gates and logic components.
LO4
Analyse a problem scenario leading to the design and implementation of a digital logic based solution using appropriate techniques.
LO5
Demonstrate the ability to work effectively in a group, undertaking personal, administrative and organisational activities associated with an efficient team.
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.
“Introduction to Electronics” (section 9.1.1) or equivalent;
“Principles of Electricity” (section 9.1.2) or equivalent;
“Mathematics 1” (section 0.1.5 or equivalent
Module Content & Assessment
Indicative Content
Logic Gates
CMOS and TTL logic gates. Gate minimization using Karnaugh maps and Boolean Algebra
Number Systems
Numbers Systems including 2's complement, floating point.
Multivibrators
Bi Stable, Astable and monostable Multivibrators at gate level and using a 555 timer
Sequential logic design
Sequential logic - counters, state machines etc
Assembly code
Introduction to assembly code instructions.
Memory
Semiconductor memory
Embedded C
Introduction to Embedded C for microcontrollers.
Timing Considerations
Static Timing analysis for small gate level designs.
Microprocessors
Microprocessor architecture
Memory Addressing
Memory Addressing
Semiconductor memory
SRAM, DRAM, ROM and FLASH
Displays
LCD, CRT and Plasma technologies
Assessment Breakdown
%
Continuous Assessment
20.00%
Practical
20.00%
End of Module Formal Examination
60.00%
Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Other
Students will be assigned a number of assignments as part of the assessment of this module. Students may be asked to complete assignments during tutorials or as homework
1,2,3,4,5
20.00
n/a
No Project
Practical
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Practical/Skills Evaluation
Students will complete practical assignments during the course of the module. Students will be required to maintain a laboratory logbook and write a brief report on each assignment. A project based learning approach will be used; hence some assignments may take several weeks to complete.
1,3,4
10.00
n/a
Practical/Skills Evaluation
Each student will complete two formal practical tests. A mark of up to 5% of the overall mark will be assigned for each test.
1,3
10.00
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
60.00
End-of-Semester
SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment