DIGITAL ELECTRONICS AND EMBEDDED SYSTEMS - 2027/8
Module code: FVP2013
Module Overview
This module bridges the worlds of electronics and computing, introducing you to the fundamental principles behind all modern digital systems. It explores how binary logic, digital circuits, programmable devices and computer networks form the basis of the technologies used in today¿s devices.
You will develop a solid understanding of how digital signals are represented, processed, stored, distributed, and controlled, as well as how hardware and software interact in real-world embedded applications. The module also introduces you to programming in C++, providing the tools to design and control digital systems through coding. In the second part of the module, you will explore practical applications in embedded audio visual and music technologies through hands-on activities. By the end of the course, you will be able to design and build basic digital electronic systems, write simple C++ programmes, and apply embedded system concepts to creative and technical challenges in lighting, music and audio.
Module provider
Music & Media
Module Leader
CHOUSIDIS Christos (Music & Med)
Number of Credits: 15
ECTS Credits: 7.5
Framework: FHEQ Level 5
Module cap (Maximum number of students): N/A
Overall student workload
Workshop Hours: 15
Independent Learning Hours: 94
Lecture Hours: 28
Guided Learning: 5
Captured Content: 8
Module Availability
Year long
Prerequisites / Co-requisites
N/A
Module content
Indicative content includes:
¿ Boolean Algebra & Logic Simplification
¿ Combinational Logic
¿ Synchronous Sequential Circuits
¿ Memory and Storage
¿ Microprocessors/Microcontrollers
¿ Interfacing
¿ Embedded System Fundamentals
¿ Sensors, Actuators and Displays
¿ MIDI and DMX Embedded Design
¿ USB applications
¿ IoT for Audio & Music Systems
¿ Real-Time Embedded Audio Processing
Assessment pattern
| Assessment type | Unit of assessment | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Digital systems design and simulation | 30 |
| Coursework | Embedded System Design & Report | 70 |
Alternative Assessment
N/A
Assessment Strategy
The assessment strategy is designed to provide you with the opportunity to demonstrate and develop subject knowledge and understanding. Thus, the summative assessment for this module consists of:
Digital Systems Design and Simulation Assessment - Design, simplification and analysis of combinational and sequential digital circuits using theory and simulation (addresses learning outcomes 1¿5 ).
Embedded System Design & Report Assessment - Development of a small-scale embedded system for an audio or music-related task and supporting it with technical documentation (addresses learning outcomes 6¿14 .
Formative assessment
Formative assessment and feedback will be given to you in tutorials and throughout lectures and workshops, and in the form of regular revision questions in lectures.
Feedback
Written feedback will be given on the Coursework assignments. You will receive verbal feedback on your practical work throughout the module, particularly in workshops during the second part, and during lectures.
Module aims
- ¿ To develop a fundamental understanding of the computing process and its connection to digital electronic systems.
- ¿ To introduce the fundamental principles of digital systems and their application in audio and music.
- ¿ To provide practical experience in C++ programming for control, processing, and system design.
- ¿ To enable students to develop design and prototyping skills in embedded systems for audio and music-based applications.
Learning outcomes
| Attributes Developed | ||
| 001 | Explain the fundamental principles of digital logic, and binary operations. | CK |
| 002 | Describe the relationship between digital electronic circuits and computing processes. | CK |
| 003 | Design and analyse combinational and sequential digital systems using logic gates and flip-flops. | CK |
| 004 | Explain the characteristics and operation of different types of memories. | CK |
| 005 | Describe the operation of Microprocessors and Microcontrollers and analyse their similarities and differences. | CK |
| 006 | Describe and analyse the role and the use of Embedded Systems in Audio visual technology digital devices | CKP |
| 007 | Write and implement basic C++ programs for embedded systems control. | CKPT |
| 008 | Understand the integration of sensors, actuators, and display systems within embedded systems. | CKP |
| 009 | Research and appropriately select digital components, sensors, and interfacing methods for the development of a specific project. | PT |
| 010 | Design and develop MIDI and DMX applications | CKP |
| 011 | Apply the USB protocol to integrate and control MIDI and DMX applications within embedded systems. | CKP |
| 012 | Integrate digital audio and music embedded devices with cloud-based applications for monitoring and control. | CKP |
| 013 | Design, program and build standalone real-time audio applications. | CKP |
| 014 | Produce technical documentation that describes the design methods, implementation processes, and performance characteristics of developed devices and systems using appropriate reporting conventions. | PT |
Attributes Developed
C - Cognitive/analytical
K - Subject knowledge
T - Transferable skills
P - Professional/Practical skills
Methods of Teaching / Learning
The learning and teaching strategy is designed to:
1. develop your knowledge and understanding of digital electronics and embedded systems, establishing a foundation for further study and a technical professional career in digital audio, music technology, and related engineering fields;
2. enable you to apply the principles of Boolean algebra, logic circuits, and digital system design to the implementation of real-world digital and embedded solutions;
3. introduce and develop your programming skills;
4. develop your skills to design, implement, and test digital circuits and embedded applications through practical methods, with particular emphasis on audio and music systems;
5. encourage independent experimentation and creative application of embedded technologies to design, develop and test working prototypes;
The learning and teaching methods include:
¿ regular lectures that cover the theoretical background of each topic. Simulations, to demonstrate the discussed subjects, and step-by-step demonstration of solutions for relevant problems (where applicable). Each lecture session ends with a question section to help you develop your understanding;
¿ regular workshop sessions in the second period of the module, which allow you to put the theoretical understanding into practice and develop skills in design, programming, testing, and further develop your prototyping skills; and
¿ coursework assignments that allow you to practice and demonstrate your understanding of theoretical subjects, develop your designing and prototyping skills, showcase your technical reporting abilities, and further enhance your academic research and writing skills.
Indicated Lecture Hours (which may also include seminars, tutorials, workshops and other contact time) are approximate and may include in-class tests where one or more of these are an assessment on the module. In-class tests are scheduled/organised separately to taught content and will be published on to student personal timetables, where they apply to taken modules, as soon as they are finalised by central administration. This will usually be after the initial publication of the teaching timetable for the relevant semester.
Reading list
https://readinglists.surrey.ac.uk
Upon accessing the reading list, please search for the module using the module code: FVP2013
Other information
Digital capabilities: the module introduces you to practical circuits using digital technology. Employability: The digital electronics aspects cover: computing principles, digital circuit design, programming, and embedded system development for dmx and audio applications, areas that are increasingly important across the film and broadcast industry. Sustainability: A key aspect of this module is its contribution to sustainability through efficient electronic and embedded system design. By promoting low-power operation, optimised coding, and the use of compact programmable devices, the module emphasises reducing energy consumption and material waste compared with traditional hardware-based solutions.
Please note that the information detailed within this record is accurate at the time of publishing and may be subject to change. This record contains information for the most up to date version of the programme / module for the 2027/8 academic year.