Course Catalogue

Microelectronic Systems UESTCHN1006

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Engineering
  • Credits: 10
  • Level: Level 1 (SCQF level 7)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: No
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

This course introduces the basic concepts of digital microelectronic systems.  Both theoretical and practical aspects of the design of digital systems are covered.  Based around programming a modern microcontroller, and interfacing it with peripheral components, the course also introduces the concepts of embedded systems including digital and analogue input and output.

Timetable

This course will be timetabled in blocks, typically one week in four.

Requirements of Entry

Mandatory Entry Requirements

None

Recommended Entry Requirements

None

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

60% Written Exam: Final Exam

15% Laboratory Exercises, 25% Laboratory Project

Main Assessment In: April/May

Course Aims

The aims of this course are to:

■ give theoretical and practical experience of designing, building and testing microelectronic systems with a development kit for a simple microcontroller interfaced with discrete components and external peripherals;

■ develop skills in systematic design and documentation.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ describe and identify the basic architecture of a microcontroller, including memory systems and external interfaces;

■ explain and implement various input/output formats and device connections;

■ describe and use input/output interfaces and communication protocols;

■ design, program and test a microcontroller system involving interface to external sensors/components, controls and electronic systems.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions