Module ICE-2321:
Analog Circuit Design & Comms

Module Facts

Run by School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering

20.000 Credits or 10.000 ECTS Credits

Semester 2

Organiser: Dr Cristiano Palego

Overall aims and purpose

This module aims to provide an introduction to analogue and radiofrequency (RF) eletronics circuits and techniques to improve performance in amplifiers, filters, converters and power supplies.

Course content

Indicative content includes:

  • Foundations of network analysis: impedance/admittance matrices, scattering parameters. Common Pi and T- networks
  • Diode and bipolar transistor models and equivalent circuits
  • Bipolar transistor amplifier circuits: Common emitter, Common Base, Common Collector
  • Multi-stage amplifiers: Cascode amplifier, Class B driver, Operational amplifier
  • Introduction to instrumentation circuits and components: Amplifier characteristics, negative feedback. Operational amplifier circuits
  • Introduction to signal conditioning: resonators, Filters properties, Passive filter design, and Active filter design
  • Instrumentation circuit design issues: CAD software, Thermal management, Power supply considerations
  • Transmission lines, Impedance Matching, RF Oscillators, Voltage Controlled Oscillators, Phase-Lock Loop (PLL)

Assessment Criteria

threshold

Equivalent to 40%. 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.

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.

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.

Learning outcomes

  1. Design bipolar transistor amplifier circuits accounting for physical and environmental parameters.

  2. Employ analogue circuits for signal conditioning, amplification and signal filtering.

  3. Combine techniques, circuits and theory to develop more complex RF modules.

Assessment Methods

Type Name Description Weight
Continuous Assessment 1 10.00
Continuous Assessment 2 10.00
Continuous Assessment 3 10.00
Examination 40.00
Circuit Design and Communications 30.00

Teaching and Learning Strategy

Hours
Practical classes and workshops

2 hour weekly, week 3-12

 20
Lecture

2 hour lectures, weekly over 12 weeks

 24
Laboratory

3 hour lectures lab exercises reinforcing the taught materials, week 3-12

 18
Private study

Tutor-directed private study including revision and preparation.

 138

Transferable skills

  • Numeracy - Proficiency in using numbers at appropriate levels of accuracy
  • 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.

Subject specific skills

  • Apply underpinning concepts and ideas of engineering;
  • Apply knowledge and understanding of the specialist cognate area of electronic engineering in an international context;
  • Apply knowledge and understanding of the specialist cognate area of computer systems engineering in an international context;
  • 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.

Courses including this module

Compulsory in courses: