Embedded System Design (ELEN90066)
Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)
Overview
| Availability | Semester 1 Semester 2 |
|---|---|
| Fees | Look up fees |
AIMS
This subject provides a practical introduction to the basics of modelling, analysis, and design of microprocessor-based embedded systems. Students will learn how to integrate computation with physical processes to meet a desired specification within the context of a design project. The project work will expose students to the various stages in an engineering project (design, implementation, testing and documentation) and a range of embedded system concepts.
INDICATIVE CONTENT
Topics covered may include: digital computer and microprocessor architectures, modelling of dynamic behaviours, control, models of computation, operating systems concepts, multi-tasking, resource management and real-time behaviours, interfacing with the physical world, analysis and verification, safety, reliability, and security and privacy.
This material will be complemented by exposure to standard software tools including compilers and debuggers, finite state machine design and analysis software, and simulation tools. The subject will include a level of industry engagement, to provide broader examples of engineering projects, through guest lectures.
Intended learning outcomes
On completing this subject it is expected that the student be able to:
- 1. Apply fundamental concepts to model and design the joint dynamics of software, networks, and physical processes that underpin embedded systems with an appreciation for the importance of using abstractions and how they can limit overall system performance, robustness and security
- 2. Design, build and test the hardware components (microprocessor, sensors, actuators, peripheral interfacing) of an embedded system
- 3. Develop and test the low-level software components of an embedded system using software tools to simulate and verify its behaviour
- 4. Conduct a small embedded system design project
Generic skills
Upon completion of this subject, students will have developed the following skills:
- Ability to apply knowledge of basic science and engineering fundamentals;
- In-depth technical competence in at least one engineering discipline;
- Ability to undertake problem identification, formulation and solution;
- Ability to utilise a systems approach to design and operational performance;
- Capacity for independent critical thought, rational inquiry and self-directed learning;
- Ability to function effectively as an individual and in multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural teams, with the capacity to be a leader or manager as well as an effective team member;
- Ability to communicate effectively, with the engineering team and with the community at large.
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Eligibility and requirements
Prerequisites
One of
| Code | Name | Teaching period | Credit Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| ELEN20006 | Digital Systems | Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
| ELEN30010 | Digital System Design | No longer available | |
| ELEN30014 | Analog and Digital Electronics Concepts | Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
Corequisites
Non-allowed subjects
Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)
The University of Melbourne is committed to providing students with reasonable adjustments to assessment and participation under the Disability Standards for Education (2005), and the Assessment and Results Policy (MPF1326). Students are expected to meet the core participation requirements for their course. These can be viewed under Entry and Participation Requirements for the course outlines in the Handbook.
Further details on how to seek academic adjustments can be found on the Student Equity and Disability Support website: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/student-equity/home
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Assessment
| Description | Timing | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
Continuous assessment of assignments and in-class workshop tasks (addressing ILOs 1-4)
| Throughout the teaching period | 20% |
Final project report and project outcome, not exceeding 20 pages (addressing ILOs 1-4)
| During the examination period | 20% |
One written examination, not exceeding three hours (addressing ILOs 1 and 2)
| During the examination period | 60% |
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Dates & times
- Semester 1
Principal coordinator Gavin Buskes Mode of delivery On Campus (Parkville) Contact hours 36 hours of lectures and 36 hours of workshops Total time commitment 200 hours Teaching period 26 February 2024 to 26 May 2024 Last self-enrol date 8 March 2024 Census date 3 April 2024 Last date to withdraw without fail 3 May 2024 Assessment period ends 21 June 2024 Semester 1 contact information
Gavin Buskes- g.buskes@unimelb.edu.au
- Semester 2
Principal coordinator Farhad Farokhi Mode of delivery On Campus (Parkville) Contact hours 36 hours of lectures and 36 hours of workshops Total time commitment 200 hours Teaching period 22 July 2024 to 20 October 2024 Last self-enrol date 2 August 2024 Census date 2 September 2024 Last date to withdraw without fail 20 September 2024 Assessment period ends 15 November 2024 Semester 2 contact information
Time commitment details
200 hours
What do these dates mean
Visit this webpage to find out about these key dates, including how they impact on:
- Your tuition fees, academic transcript and statements.
- And for Commonwealth Supported students, your:
- Student Learning Entitlement. This applies to all students enrolled in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP).
Subjects withdrawn after the census date (including up to the ‘last day to withdraw without fail’) count toward the Student Learning Entitlement.
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Further information
- Texts
- Subject notes
LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS
The subject is delivered through lectures and a semester-long design, build and code project, plus workshop classes to assist with the project.
INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES
Students are provided with lecture slides, worked problem sets, project specifications, and reference text lists.
CAREERS / INDUSTRY LINKS
The subject includes a level of industry engagement, to provide broader examples of engineering projects, through guest lectures. - Related Handbook entries
This subject contributes to the following:
Type Name Course Master of Engineering Specialisation (formal) Electrical with Business Specialisation (formal) Mechatronics Specialisation (formal) Electrical - Available through the Community Access Program
About the Community Access Program (CAP)
This subject is available through the Community Access Program (also called Single Subject Studies) which allows you to enrol in single subjects offered by the University of Melbourne, without the commitment required to complete a whole degree.
Please note Single Subject Studies via Community Access Program is not available to student visa holders or applicants
Entry requirements including prerequisites may apply. Please refer to the CAP applications page for further information.
Additional information for this subject
Subject coordinator approval required
- Available to Study Abroad and/or Study Exchange Students
Last updated: 4 March 2025