This module introduces the fundamental and distinctive aspects of computing, programming, and interfacing microcontrollers for practical applications, laying the foundation for embedded systems. Skills learned in this module will allow you to make use of various programming environments to solve real-world problems not limited to Python and Arduino IDE. Simultaneously, general principles and applications of Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) will be provided.
You will learn to design circuit and the practical skills necessary for creating electronic circuits and systems for Biomedical applications.
You will develop a working knowledge of programming language such as ‘C’ as applied to low-resource embedded systems. The following concepts will be covered:
Introduction to C programming: Bits, bytes, binary numbers, program structure, and pre-processor directives; Expressions; Operators; Flow control; Functions; Header files; Pointers and arrays. Besides, an introduction to higher-level programming language will also be included.
This part of the module involves the design and development of electronic circuits and devices. General principles and applications of Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) are illustrated using suitable software to design hardware for simple electronic circuits and create manufacturing files for printed circuit boards. This includes the use of Electronic Computer-Aided Design (ECAD) programs to design, simulate, and manufacture electronic systems, covering schematic entry and capture, simulation of simple electronic circuits, fundamentals of printed circuit board design, and generation of manufacturing files (Gerber).
You will apply the skills learned to design and build a practical biomedical instrumentation circuit and test it, involving problem-solving skills, circuit design and programming. You will also acquire the foundational and practical skills necessary for designing more complex biomedical instrumentation circuits and systems further on.