ECE2071 · Systems programming

Overview

This unit provides an introduction to computers, microcontrollers, processor organisation, and algorithm design for engineering problems and embedded computer systems. Key microprocessor topics including serial communication, interrupts and analogue to digital conversion, are addressed. The unit covers the C programming language and its implementation on a typical computer, including standard data types, arrays, control statements, functions, C library functions, pointers, strings, arrays of pointers, structures, linked lists, dynamic memory allocations, and abstract data structures. The unit presents basic assembly programming, using a RISC-based architecture, with a focus on computer arithmetic and the stack. It introduces object-oriented programming principles and design methodologies. Key software engineering techniques, such as version management, are also covered and operating system concepts are introduced.

Areas of study: E3001 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Specialisation: Biomedical engineering E3001 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Specialisation: Electrical and computer systems engineering E3001 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Specialisation: Robotics and mechatronics engineering Minor: Sensory systems in Industry 4.0

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Continuous assessment: 60% Final assessment: 40% This unit contains threshold hurdle requirements that you must achieve to be able to pass the unit. You are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final assessment component. The consequence of not achieving a hurdle requirement is a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Apply appropriate algorithms, abstract data structures, environments, and standards to a range of real-world programming scenarios.
2. Construct programs to meet simple and complex real-world specifications at a range of abstraction levels, including assembly, making use of both procedural and object-oriented programming paradigms.
3. Evaluate the performance of software through the development of test cases and automated measurement and analysis tools.
4. Describe the design, implementation and project management process of a complex system using context-appropriate graphical, narrative, or technical communication strategies.
5. Describe the operating principles and use-cases of interrupts, the conversion of analogue and digital signals, and serial communication protocols.

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.