Module ICE-2321:
Analog Circuit Design & Comms
Analogue Circuit Design and Communications 2025-26
ICE-2321
2025-26
School of Computer Science & Engineering
Module - Semester 2
20 credits
Module Organiser:
Cristiano Palego
Overview
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 Strategy
-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, relevant 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
- Combine techniques, circuits and theory to develop more complex RF modules.
- Design bipolar transistor amplifier circuits accounting for physical and environmental parameters.
- Employ analogue circuits for signal conditioning, amplification and signal filtering.
Assessment method
Exam (Centrally Scheduled)
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
Continuous Assessment 1: 5 short questions probing understanding of theory foundations and virtually calculation-lees problem solving typically focusing on linear and non-linear network theory principles.
Weighting
10%
Due date
15/02/2023
Assessment method
Exam (Centrally Scheduled)
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
Continuous Assessment 2: 5 short questions probing understanding of theory foundations and virtually calculation-lees problem solving typically focusing on on bipolar junction transistor amplifiers configuration and design.
Weighting
10%
Due date
15/03/2023
Assessment method
Exam (Centrally Scheduled)
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
Continuous Assessment 3: 5 short questions probing understanding of theory foundations and virtually calculation-lees problem solving typically focusing on principles and design of communication modules and subsystems.
Weighting
10%
Due date
03/05/2023
Assessment method
Report
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
Design Project: typically a design technical report-type assignment (e.g. design of a FM radio transmitter) including system specifications and usage of circuit simulation software to show how optimum design solution meets them. This assignment is structured and timed in order to inform and support ordering of parts and PCB circuit manufactory that will be tested in the last LAB sessions.
Weighting
40%
Due date
24/03/2023
Assessment method
Demonstration/Practice
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
Lab group project involving practical implementation and testing of what is designed /simulated throughout the Design Project (for example a self-contained communications system such as an FM radio transmitter).
Weighting
30%
Due date
28/04/2023