Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this module the student should be able to:
-explain the high-level functions carried out by certain basic circuit building blocks and define the circuit elements that can be used to implement these building blocks. [PO(A), 2]; [PO(B), 2]; [PO(C), 2]; [PO(E), 1]; [PO(F), 2]
-derive the basic equations, and state and prove the major theorems, required for the analysis of linear circuits. [PO(A), 3]; [PO(B), 4]; [PO(C), 1]; [PO(E), 1]
-analyse the operation of linear circuits driven by constant sources or in the sinusoidal steady state. [PO(A), 2]; [PO(B), 4]; [PO(C), 2]; [PO(E), 1]This will include:
a. reducing the circuits to a simpler equivalent form, where appropriate;
b. identifying the most effective solution method for a given circuit;
c. implementing the chosen method to produce the correct solution.
-explain how the behaviour of nonlinear circuits differs from that of linear circuits, explain why this is useful, and analyse simple nonlinear circuits. [PO(A), 1]; [PO(B), 4]; [PO(C), 1]; [PO(E), 1]; [PO(F), 1]
-design and build circuits taken from the scope of the course, design and conduct experiments related to these circuits, and analyse and interpret output data. [PO(A), 1]; [PO(B), 3]; [PO(C), 4]; [PO(E), 2]; [PO(F), 2]
Please note that the codes given at the end of each Learning Outcome relate to the Programme Outcomes specified by Engineers Ireland for the professional accreditation of degree programmes.
Indicative Module Content:
Current, voltage, power
Kirchhoff's laws
Basic (resistive) circuit elements: resistors, independent and controlled voltage and current sources
Series and parallel connections
Voltage and current division
Circuit theorems
Node voltage analysis
Amplification and controlled sources
Operational amplifiers
Basic (dynamic) circuit elements: capacitors and inductors
Dynamics circuits: transient and steady-state
Sinusoidal steady-state: phasor analysis
Frequency response
Filters
Nonlinear circuits: diodes, rectifiers, transistors