SUBJECT: Analogue Electronics

The first year of this course introduces the student to the fundamental concepts of a.c. and d.c. voltage, current and resistance. You will learn to use voltmeters, ammeters and ohmmeters to observe and measure these properties.

You will build circuits using breadboard techniques to introduce you to the basic discrete components used in analogue electronics such as resistors, capacitors, diodes and transistors. These circuits will then be used to investigate the behavior and properties of the components. Having completed these assignments you will not only understand the function of these components but will also have hands on practical experience of their handling and use. This experience will be invaluable when you come to make and build permanent printed circuit boards(p.c.bs) later on in the course or design and build your own projects.

To this end the course also includes studying printed circuit board development and using photo-development and etch tank processes to manufacture your own individual boards.. You will learn and practice soldering and de-soldering techniques which are also needed to build PCB's for final projects.

Later in the course you will be taught to understand and use oscilloscopes to observe and measure various wave forms and use it in the design and building of regulated d.c. power supplies.

Normally this syllabus is covered in the first semesters of the academic year and the skills and practical experience gained is then used in the development of circuits on the control systems syllabus.

Assessment is on going and involves five practical assignments, a final project and a written exam at the end of the course. The assignments normally involve building circuits on breadboard and carrying out demonstrations and measurements on the final product. The final project involves the fabrication and building of a printed circuit board and is marked on its successful operation and a demonstration of the students understanding of its design.

This subject forms an important basis for a more thorough understanding of many other subjects such as control systems, computer architecture and networking as well as forming the basis of a fascinating hobby for many year to come.