ELEC3227 Embedded Networked Systems
Module Overview
With rapid popularity and advancements in technologies like the internet-of-things (IoT) and network-on-chip (NoC), the ability to connect and network embedded devices is becoming ever more commonplace, and a feature of most electronic devices. This module is concerned with how electronic and computing devices can network with one-another. The module is not deeply concerned with physical layer communications, e.g. modulating signals onto carriers, as students already have a solid background in this from modules in previous years. The module explores the structure and purpose of layers in protocol stacks, through to example protocols (such as Bluetooth, LoRaWAN, ZigBee) and security implications of networking approaches and appropriate countermeasures. A key part of the module is the coursework, in which students design and implement their own network protocol(s) in hardware.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- The principles of layered networking models
- Architectures and protocols which enable embedded networking
- Issues regarding the security of embedded networks
- The impact of protocol design on energy-consumption and energy-efficiency
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Balance the trade-offs between performance and efficiency in networking protocols
- Select appropriate protocols to meet application/QoS requirements
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Interpret standardisation documents
- Communicate your technical work
Subject Specific Practical Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Design, implement and test embedded networking protocols on practical hardware
Syllabus
Network architectures and principles Physical networks and their design Layered networking models: - Data link layer principles and protocols - Network layer principles and protocols - Transport layer principles and protocols - Application layer principles and protocols Example network protocols and architectures (e.g. Bluetooth, ZigBee, LoRa/LoRaWAN, TCP/IP) Network-on-chip protocols Energy and power efficiency Network security Emerging network technologies Standardisation of communication protocols
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Syllabus material will be taught through the lectures and supporting tutorials. Learning will be through a combination of independent study alongside the taught sessions, the coursework and lab activities.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Tutorial | 12 |
| Follow-up work | 12 |
| Revision | 10 |
| Lecture | 24 |
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 12 |
| Wider reading or practice | 59 |
| Completion of assessment task | 21 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Andrew S. Tanenbaum, David J. Wetherall. (2011). Computer Networks.
Assessment
Assessment Strategy
Laboratory sessions are scheduled in the labs on level 2 of the Zepler building. Length of each session: 3 hours Number of sessions completed by each student: 3 Max number of students per session: unlimited Demonstrator:student ratio: 1:12 Preferred teaching weeks: 3 to 5
Summative
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Coursework | 40% |
| Examination | 60% |
Repeat
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Examination | 100% |
Referral
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Examination | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External
Linked modules
Pre-requisites: ELEC1201