Embedded Systems

Unit code: NEE3203 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
NEE2106 - Computer Programming for Electrical Engineers
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

This unit provides an in-depth exploration of embedded systems, focusing on microcontrollers, embedded programming techniques, and system integration. Students will examine microcontroller architecture and peripheral components such as memory, timers, analogue-to-digital converters (ADC), pulse-width modulation (PWM), and communication interfaces including USART, SPI, and I²C. Software development techniques such as polling and interrupts will be introduced to support responsive and efficient embedded system operation. Through hands-on laboratory work and project-based learning, students will design, program, and test embedded applications for real-world contexts such as the Internet of Things (IoT), industrial automation, and robotics, fostering both technical competence and systems thinking.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Critically analyse the principles and architecture underpinning embedded hardware and software design;
  2. Appraise the key components and functional subsystems of an embedded system;
  3. Design and implement embedded programs integrating peripherals and communication interfaces;
  4. Analyse, test, and optimise the performance of real-time control systems through simulation or hardware implementation; and
  5. Apply ethical, sustainable, and safety-focused reasoning in the design and evaluation of embedded applications.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Laboratory Work
|
Grade: 30%
Practical Lab Assessment (Individual) (1500 words)
Assessment type: Report
|
Grade: 30%
Lab Report (Group) (2000 words)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 40%
In-class invigilated test (Individual) (90 minutes)

Test: This secure invigilated in class assessment has an unpredictable problem-solving scenario format that tests deep understanding, requires explanation of reasoning and process, and involves applying knowledge to new contexts.

Laboratory Work: This assessment ensures accountability by requiring students to perform hands on and lab tasks under supervision. Real-time observation and process-focused questioning verify understanding and application of analytical skills

Report. Structured group lab report documenting design, implementation, and validation processes in detail. Progressive milestone checks, documented collaboration and individual contributions ensure accountability and support verification of each student’s engagement. Explicit evaluation of individual contributions further supports the secure assessment and assurance of each student’s achievement of learning outcomes.

Required reading

Required readings will be made available on VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Electrical and Electronic Engineering)
NHEE | Bachelor honours degree | Duration: 4 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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