Foundations of Embedded IoT Systems | ELEC6254

Module overview

This module explores the devices, technologies and software that enable embedded Internet of Things (IoT) systems. Typical architectures of IoT systems are introduced, from microcontrollers to communications with Cloud components. We consider how these systems operate, are programmed, and how they are powered. We also consider the embedded operating systems used by IoT systems, e.g. RIOT-OS and MBED, which provide core libraries for IoT functionality. Students will also learn how to use typical IoT communications technologies, e.g. LoRaWAN (using our campus-wide base stations) and MQTT for passing data messages.

Aims and Objectives

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

IoT system design and sensor networks
Software development techniques and tools/frameworks for embedded IoT systems
Approaches for efficiently powering embedded IoT devices
The architecture, operation, and constraints of an embedded IoT system

Subject Specific Practical Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

Design, analyse and debug embedded IoT software
Design and test an embedded IoT system

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

Program microcontrollers, such as those in embedded IoT systems
Consider the design trade-offs between different components of an embedded IoT system

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

Effectively communicate technical work
Undertake practical laboratory experiments

Learning and Teaching

Teaching and learning methods

Syllabus material will be taught through the module’s lectures, directed reading, and supervised laboratory sessions. Learning will be through a combination of reflection and independent study alongside the taught sessions, coursework, and laboratory sessions.

Study time
Type	Hours
Independent Study	20
Practical classes and workshops	15
Tutorial	6
Preparation for scheduled sessions	15
Assessment tasks	40
Revision	24
Lecture	30
Total study time	150

Assessment

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Continuous Assessment	40%
Final Assessment	60%

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External