Sensors and Devices

Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Module version for: 2016/7

Summary module description:
Aims:
The module aims to introduce the basic concepts underpinning the operation of semiconductor devices, and to describe sensors and transducers for a range of application areas, their characteristics and principles of operation.

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module the students should be able to choose appropriate transistors, amplifiers and transducers for a given application, understand the principles of their operation and be able to calculate their amplification and responsivities respectively. They should also be able to describe the physical operation of semiconductor devices and predict their behaviour.

Additional outcomes:
Sensors and transducers: Designing to meet specifications.
Basic semiconductor device models.
Outline content:
Semiconductor devices (7): Atomic structure and electrons. Insulators, conductors and semiconductors. Intrinsic and extrinsic semiconductors. Majority and minority carriers. p-n junction diodes. Rectification. Zener diodes. Light emitting diodes. Bipolar junction Transistors (the Common Emitter and Common Collector amplifiers, the Differential Amplifier, Operational Amplifiers and configurations), Field Effect Transistors.
Sensors and transducers (3): Classification of Sensors and transducers, examples. Transducer parameters. Transducer bridges. Displacement transducers (resistive and capacitive). Temperature transducers.
Phototransducers (10). Fibre optic sensors. Measurement methods and instrumentation.
Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
The module comprises 2 lectures per week, associated laboratory practicals, and some revision tutorials. Laboratory practicals are used to reinforce the relevant lectures.

Contact hours:
Lectures- 20
Practicals classes and workshops- 9
Guided independent study- 65
Total hours by term- 94
Total hours for module- 100

Summative Assessment Methods:
Written exam- 70%
Sex exercise- 30%

Other information on summative assessment:
Formative assessment methods:

Length of examination:
One 2-hour examination paper in May/June.

Requirements for a pass:
40%

Reassessment arrangements:
Examination only.
One 2-hour examination paper in August/September.