An assignment weighted at 100% that will contain a portfolio consisting of the implementation of real life applications utilising a Micro-controller that will be programmed using 'C' and Assembler as well as using LabVIEW (Graphical) to develop a PC based application (Learning Outcomes 1-6).

Additional outcomes of presentation skills through viva may be used to contribute to the Staffordshire Graduate portfolio.

Computer Organisation and Architecture: Designing for Performance., Stallings, W. 2012, Pearson , ISBN: 0273769197

Assembly Language Step-by-Step: Programming with Dos and Linux, Duntemann, J, Wiley, 2009, ISBN: 0470497025

A Book on C, Kelly, A. & Pohl, I. (1998) Addison Wesley, US. ISBN 0-201-18399-4 - Essential reading

C: A Reference Manual, Harbison, Sauel P. & Steele, Guy L. (2002) Pearson , US. ISBN 013122560X - Background reading / reference.

C. Programming Language, Kernigan, Brian W. & Ritchie, Dennis M. (1998) Pearson, US. ISBN 0131103628 - Background reading

The module will cover the introduction to computer control and data acquisition aspects, with consideration of the available hardware, methods of communication currently used: digital and analogue signals, serial and parallel, data rates, signal conditioning, single ended and differential inputs. The content should include examples of systems from around the world. This should be implemented by considering the two areas of ‘Real Time’ systems in computing namely: embedded solutions and graphical solutions (LabVIEW).

It is expected that the student will consolidate the knowledge and skills within the pre-requisite ANSI ‘C’ programming. Introduce the concept of Embedded Real time system design by applying High level and Low level programming to a micro-controller system e.g. 68Hc11 or Arm Cortex or Raspberry Pi

Introduce the concept of a Real Time System by applying a Graphical language system such as National Instruments LabVIEW.

Both elements should use examples of real life applications, case studies and application using servos, transducers, DC motors and stepper motors utilising simple system devices such as National Instruments ‘myRio’, Lego NXT, simple non control robotics, and Bytronics production system.

Prior study of CESCOM10075-4 Hardware & Computer Systems or equivalent
and
Prior study of CESCOM10083-4 Introduction to Software Development or equivalent and
Prior study of CESCOM10077-4 Structured Systems Analysis & Design or equivalent

Linux & BSD operating systems, Windows 8
LabVIEW development environment within an electronics lab to allow external equipment connectivity.
Low Level Assembler.
Microcontroller / single board computers and appropriate cross compilers

There will be a combination of 26 hours of lectures and 52 hours of practicals as well as self-directed study.

The delivery pattern to be used is:-
Lecture, 1 hour per week and a practical session, 2hr (block), per week for the whole module.

Proposal leading to a major activity. Your professionalism in all aspects of your work will be an important aspect of the module.