ECE3161 · Analogue electronics

Overview

In the age of digitalisation, electronic systems are all around us. Yet, they still depend on analogue circuits to perform necessary signal processing and conditioning functions. These functions include amplification, waveform generation and analogue-to-digital and digital-to-analogue conversions. In this unit, we delve into the use of active fundamental elements, such as operational amplifiers, MOSFETs, JFETs and BJTs, alongside passive circuit elements to create complex, functional building blocks. These building blocks can be combined in numerous ways to form complex analogue circuits. The unit pays equal attention to the DC biasing, small signal frequency response of the circuits, stability and non-ideal characteristics such as noise and offset current flows. To enhance your familiarity and confidence in designing these circuits, hands-on workshops and laboratory exercises will be conducted. You will learn to read device datasheets accurately and use the information to guide the design process. A group mini-project is included in the curriculum to reinforce the unit's learning outcomes. By taking this unit, you will acquire essential skills in designing and analysing analogue electronic circuits. These skills can be helpful in various fields, including robotics, biomedical engineering, telecommunications, control systems and instrumentation. Furthermore, you will gain a deeper understanding of the practical application of analogue electronic circuits, enabling you to solve real-world problems more efficiently.

Areas of study: E3001 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Specialisation: Electrical and computer systems engineering E6011 Master of Professional Engineering - Specialisation: Electrical engineering Minor: Electric vehicle technology

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Continuous assessment: 60% Final assessment: 40% Assessment in this unit includes competency hurdle assessment tasks. One attempt, plus an additional assessment capped at 50% for any students who fail the first attempt.

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

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Predict the behaviour of active and passive components (eg MOSFETs, JFETs, BJTs, OpAmps, capacitors, resistors, etc) used in analogue circuits based on their small and large signal theoretical models.
2. Analyse the behaviour of inputs and outputs of analogue system blocks in both time and frequency domains.
3. Use laboratory equipment and software simulation tools to build, analyse and debug analogue circuits.
4. Plan and evaluate complex analogue circuits using analogue system blocks (eg current mirrors, charge pumps, etc) and operate them in conjunction with other circuits and microcontrollers.

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.