To explain the mathematical techniques needed to analyse linear and simple non-linear electrical and electronic circuits.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Syllabus
Principles of Circuits
• Kirchhoff’s voltage and current laws
• Ideal circuit elements: resistors, inductors and capacitors, voltage and current sources
• Mutual inductance
• The superposition theorem and linearity.
Step Response of RL and RC Circuits
• Analysis of source-free RC and RL circuits
• Time constant of an RC and RL circuit
• The unit step forcing function
• Complete response of RL and RC circuits.
Complex Number Representation
• Argand diagram
• Euler's formula
AC Theory
• Properties of sine waves
• Sinusoidal excitation of RL and RC circuits: phase and amplitude of 1st order lead and lag.
• Impedance and admittance AC analysis of RLC circuits
• Resonant RLC circuits, coupled resonators,
• Q factor
• Phasor diagrams
• Power in AC circuits, complex power,
Diode Circuits
• Diode as a non-linear device
• Loadline analysis of circuits
• Piecewise linear treatment of a diode
• Diode rectifier circuits.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
The content of this module is delivered through lectures, module website, directed reading and tutorials.
Students work on their understanding through a combination of independent study, preparation for timetabled activities, tutorials and problem classes, along with formative assessments in the form of problem sheets.
Students work on their practical skills, professional skills and technical understanding in technical laboratories.
Assessment
Assessment strategy
This module is assessed by a combination of coursework, problem sheets, assessed laboratories and a final assessment in the form of a written examination.
The Laboratory assessment which covers practical Learning Outcomes is assessed in the Laboratory Programme Module which includes in-semester opportunities for redeeming failure. These marks are carried forward to the Supplementary Assessment period or External Repeat.