Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit introduces the fundamental concepts underpinning the design and analysis of modern digital systems. Topics covered include: design process abstractions and realisation technologies; introduction to hardware description language; Boolean Algebra, combinational logic, minimisation, NAND/NOR implementations, multi-level gate networks, standard combinational components and programmable logic devices; sequential logic, latches, flip-flops, registers, counters, finite-state machines; analysis, synthesis and optimization of clocked sequential circuits; timing diagrams, hazards, maximum frequency of operation, metastability; microprocessor based systems, instruction sets, and assembly programming.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) explain digital encoding and processing of information and discuss the associated benefits and limitations of digital design process abstractions; (2) simulate, analyse, optimize, and construct combinational and sequential logic circuits; (3) select the appropriate modern realization technologies and synthesis techniques for the implementation of a given digital system; (4) describe the architecture and operation of a microprocessor based system; (5) analyse, explain and write small assembly programs ; and (6) work effectively as part of a team and communicate results in a concise technical report.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) class tests/ quizzes; (2) labs; and (3) final examination. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Professor Farid Boussaid
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in
UWC08 Diploma in Engineering – 10 Months
or UWC18 Diploma in Engineering - 14 months
Incompatibility
NSC2003 Engineering Electrical Fundamentals
and ENSC3020 Digital Embedded Systems
Contact hours
Lectures: 3 hours per week
Practical Classes: 1 hour per week
Laboratories: 18 hrs per semester
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.