Run by School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering

20.000 Credits or 10.000 ECTS Credits

Semester 1

Organiser: Dr Noel Bristow

The module aims to develop concepts in embedded systems, their use and implementation. It provides the overview and usage of the tools necessary to deploy such system in a real context.

Indicative content includes:

• Basic principles of embedded systems.
• Specifying systems, hardware/software partitioning, target hardware platforms.
• Microprocessors, microcontrollers, Systems-on-Silicon.
• Realtime Operating Systems.
• Interrupts, Polling, Watchdog timers.
• System modelling, UML
• Debugging, emulation and testing.

good

Equivalent to the range 60%-69%. Is able to analyse a task or problem to decide which aspects of theory and knowledge to apply. Solutions are of a workable quality, demonstrating understanding of underlying principles. Major themes can be linked appropriately but may not be able to extend this to individual aspects. Outputs are readily understood, with an appropriate structure but may lack sophistication.

threshold

Equivalent to 50%. Uses key areas of theory or knowledge to meet the Learning Outcomes of the module. Is able to formulate an appropriate solution to accurately solve tasks and questions. Can identify individual aspects, but lacks an awareness of links between them and the wider contexts. Outputs can be understood, but lack structure and/or coherence.

excellent

Equivalent to the range 70%+. Assemble critically evaluated, relevent areas of knowledge and theory to constuct professional-level solutions to tasks and questions presented. Is able to cross-link themes and aspects to draw considered conclusions. Presents outputs in a cohesive, accurate, and efficient manner.

1. Apply the principles of embedded system design to a specification.

2. Select and apply appropriate system modelling methods to the design of embedded systems.

3. Justify choices of hardware and software environment used to design and create embedded systems.

Type	Name	Description	Weight
EXAM	Unseen Examination	Unseen end-of-semester exam.	40.00
	Investigations Portfolio - Exercise 1		20.00
	Investigations Portfolio - Exercise 2		20.00
	Investigations Portfolio - Exercise 3		20.00

		Hours
Lecture	1 hour lectures run from weeks 1-12.	12
Tutorial	Worked problem sets and examples (2 hr x 12 weeks).	24
Private study	Tutor-directed private study, including individual assessments.	164

• Numeracy - Proficiency in using numbers at appropriate levels of accuracy
• Computer Literacy - Proficiency in using a varied range of computer software
• Self-Management - Able to work unsupervised in an efficient, punctual and structured manner. To examine the outcomes of tasks and events, and judge levels of quality and importance
• Exploring - Able to investigate, research and consider alternatives
• Critical analysis & Problem Solving - Able to deconstruct and analyse problems or complex situations. To find solutions to problems through analyses and exploration of all possibilities using appropriate methods, rescources and creativity.

• Apply an understanding and appreciation of continuous improvement techniques
• Apply underpinning concepts and ideas of engineering;
• Assess and choose optimal methods and approaches for the specification, design, implementation and evaluation of engineering solutions, especially ones that include embedded microprocessors
• Solve problems logically and systematically;
• Assess and choose optimal methods and approaches for the specification, design, implementation and evaluation of engineering solutions.

Optional in courses:

• G4AS: MSc Advanced Computer Science year 1 (MSC/ACS)