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Digital System Design (ELEN30010)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5Dual-Delivery (Parkville)

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Overview

Availability
Semester 1 - Dual-Delivery
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AIMS

This subject develops a fundamental understanding of concepts used in the analysis and design of digital systems. Such systems lie at the heart of the information and communication technologies (ICT) that underpin modern society. This subject is one of four subjects that define the Electrical Systems Major in the Bachelor of Science and it is a core requirement for the Master of Engineering (Electrical) and the Master of Engineering (Mechatronics). It provides a foundation for various subsequent subjects, including ELEN30013 Electronic System Implementation, ELEN90066 Embedded System Design and ELEN90061 Communication Networks.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Topics include:

  • Digital systems - quantifying and encoding information, digital data processing, design process abstractions;
  • Combinational logic – timing contracts, acyclic networks, switching algebra, logic synthesis;
  • Sequential logic – cyclic networks and finite-state machines, metastability, microcode;
  • Interconnection structures - buses, crossbar switches, interconnection networks.

These topics will be complemented by exposure to the hardware description language Verilog and the use of engineering design automation tools and configurable logic devices (e.g. FPGAs) in the laboratory.

Intended learning outcomes

Having completed this subject it is expected that the student be able to:

  • 1. Relate fundamental tools in the analysis of combinational and sequential logic systems, with an appreciation for the role and limitations of important digital abstractions
  • 2. Relate fundamental concepts, including hardwired and programmed approaches, to implement digital systems that achieve specified functionality
  • 3. Use a hardware description language for the documentation, simulation and synthesis of reasonably complex digital systems
  • 4. Configure and test digital hardware development platforms in the laboratory

Generic skills

On completion of this subject students should have developed the following generic skills:

  • Ability to apply knowledge of basic science and engineering fundamentals;
  • Ability to undertake problem identification, formulation and solution;
  • Ability to utilise a systems approach to design and operational performance;
  • Ability to communicate effectively, with the engineering team and with the community at large;
  • Capacity for independent critical thought, rational inquiry and self-directed learning;
  • Expectation of the need to undertake lifelong learning, capacity to do so.

Last updated: 3 October 2024