Fundamentals of Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Unit code: NEF2251 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
NEF1205 - Engineering Fundamentals
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

This unit provides students with foundational knowledge of electrical and electronic engineering principles essential for interdisciplinary practice across mechanical, architectural, and building engineering fields. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of electrical circuits, analysis methods, and the operation of key electrical machines and digital systems.



The unit introduces both Direct-Current (DC) and Alternating-Current (AC) circuit analysis using systematic techniques such as nodal analysis, Thevenin and Norton equivalent circuits, superposition, and the maximum power transfer theorem. Students will extend this knowledge to three-phase AC systems, power factor correction, and transformer behaviour, building competence in interpreting and optimising power delivery in engineering applications. The operation and characteristics of DC and AC motors, as well as synchronous generators, are explored to connect theory with industrial practice.



The unit also introduces the fundamentals of digital electronics, including logic gates, Boolean algebra, and arithmetic operations, enabling students to analyse and design simple digital circuits. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving, professional communication, and the ethical and sustainable application of electrical engineering principles.

Learning Outcomes

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

  1. Analyse and solve DC, AC, and balanced three-phase electrical circuits using systematic analytical and computational techniques;
  2. Evaluate and model transformer operation, performance, and efficiency through the application of circuit and energy conversion principles;
  3. Interpret and predict the behaviour of electric machines by applying equivalent circuit models to assess motor and generator performance under varying load conditions; and
  4. Design and interpret basic digital electronic systems using logic gates, Boolean algebra, and truth tables to solve simple engineering problems.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 30%
In-class invigilated analytical problem-solving task (60 mins) (Individual)
Assessment type: Report
|
Grade: 30%
Laboratory Exercises (2000-word) (Individual)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 40%
In-class invigilated test on applying analytical and computational reasoning to electrical and digital systems (90 mins) (Individual)

Test: This secure assessment is conducted under supervised, invigilated conditions with unique problem sets to ensure authenticity. Real-time completion prevents collaboration or access to external materials.

Report: Authenticity is verified through individual experimental data records, instructor observation during laboratory sessions, and cross-checking of submitted work against raw data and system logs.

Test: This secure test is held in an invigilated environment with unseen problems, ensuring independent demonstration of analytical and computational skills.

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) (Mechanical Engineering)
NHEM | 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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