Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2013-2014 (archived)

Module ENGI3331: MICROELECTRONICS

Department: Engineering

ENGI3331: MICROELECTRONICS

Type Tied Level 3 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2013/14 Module Cap None. Location Durham
Tied to H100

Prerequisites

  • As specified in Programme Regulations

Corequisites

  • As specified in the Programme Regulations

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • As specified in the Programme Regulations

Aims

  • This module is designed solely for students studying School of Engineering and Computing Sciences degree programmes.
  • To introduce the basic mathematical formulation of the laws of electromagnetism and their application to RF circuits and devices.
  • To study the analytical development and fabrication of a MOSFET transistor: the device itself, its implementation in digital logic elements and the fabrication techniques needed to assemble large numbers of MOSFETs into a modern integrated circuit.

Content

  • Microelectronics, RF Engineering, Practical course

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • In-depth knowledge and understanding of fundamental engineering concepts, principles, theories and mathematics relevant to Microelectronics, RF Engineering
  • Practical application of engineering principles
Subject-specific Skills:
  • To specify, plan, manage, conduct and report on an engineering project.
  • To critically analyse, evaluate and interpret engineering data.
  • To apply specialised engineering knowledge to the solution of complex problems in an engineering or industrial context.
  • To demonstrate an awareness of practical engineering skills.
  • Preparation and delivery of technical reports.
  • An understanding of Risk assessment and COSHH.
  • The proficient and safe use of standard engineering equipment
Key Skills:
  • Capacity for self-learning in familiar and unfamiliar situations.
  • Numerical skills appropriate to an engineer.
  • Team working.
  • Time and resouce management.
  • General problem solving skills.
  • Communicate effectively.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • The courses in Microelectronics and RF Engineering are covered in lectures, and are reinforced by seminars and by problem sheets, leading to the required problem solving capability. Assessment is through written examination which enables each student to demonstrate an ability to analyse and solve new problems.
  • Students are able to make use of staff Tutorial Hours to discuss any aspect of the module with teaching staff on a one to one basis. These are sign-up sessions available for up to one hour per week
  • A two-week practical course which may be based in the School of Engineering or in industry according to the selected option. Students are faced with new and complex problems which provide the opportunity for them to enhance their problem solving skills in a team environment with a particular emphasis on industrial relevance. Assessment is by written report and/or oral presentation.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Microelectronics lectures 19 1 per week 1 hour 19
RF Engineering lectures 19 1 per week 1 hour 19
Revision seminars 2 2 in term 3 week 3 1 hour 2
Practical courses 1 1 in term 3 2 weeks full-time 64
Tutorial hours as required weekly sign-up sessions up to 1 hour 8
Preparation and reading 88
Total 200

Summative Assessment

Component: Coursework Component Weighting: 20%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
2 week Practical course 100% none
Component: Examinations Component Weighting: 80%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Microelectronics 3 2 hours 100% None

Formative Assessment:


Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University