Embedded Systems unit (ENG215)

Hobart

Introduction

This unit introduces students to the design, development, and programming of digital and embedded systems, focusing on their applications in control, monitoring, and automation. Students will gain hands-on experience in microcontroller programming and digital circuit design through the application of Boolean logic and number systems. Key topics include sensor-actuator interfacing, signal conditioning techniques, reliable data acquisition and the dynamic behaviour of a digital circuit.

With a focus on real-world applications, students will explore how embedded systems contribute to complex electrical systems such as smart grids, renewable energy systems, and industrial automation. Through a combination of practical lab work, problem-solving assignments, and system design projects, students will develop the skills to select, program, and integrate microcontrollers into digital systems. Students will also learn to assess the environmental impacts associated with the development, use and disposal of a digital system. 

This unit builds on Electrical Engineering Foundations by introducing the digital/analogue interface and digital electronic components. The unit also introduces skills required for future work with digital and embedded systems including Control Systems, Data Acquisition and Communication Systems, and Applications in Electrical Engineering where students will learn to develop larger and more complex digital and embedded systems.

Summary

Unit name	Embedded Systems
Unit code	ENG215
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Engineering
Discipline	Engineering
Coordinator	Doctor Benjamin Millar
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Intermediate

Availability

Location	Study period	Attendance options		Available to
Hobart	Semester 1

Note

Please check that your computer meets the minimum System Requirements if you are attending via Distance/Off-Campus.

Units are offered in attending mode unless otherwise indicated (that is attendance is required at the campus identified). A unit identified as offered by distance, that is there is no requirement for attendance, is identified with a nominal enrolment campus. A unit offered to both attending students and by distance from the same campus is identified as having both modes of study.

Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Semester 1	22/2/2026	16/3/2026	19/4/2026	13/6/2026

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

• Develop software for embedded digital systems with applications in control and monitoring.
• Apply Boolean logic methods and number systems to the design and optimisation of digital circuits and algorithms.
• Design digital systems that interface with sensors and actuators.
• Implement signal conditioning techniques to ensure reliable data acquisition.
• Evaluate the environmental impact of an embedded system.

Fee Information

Field of Education	Commencing Student Contribution 1,3	Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3	Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3	Domestic Full Fee 4
031303	$1,192.00	$1,192.00	not applicable	$3,401.00

• Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
• HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility³
• FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility⁴

¹ Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
² Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
³ Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
⁴ Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Prerequisites

ENG108 Electrical Engineering Fundamentals and ENG109 Engineering Toolbox

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	1 x 2 hour lecture per week 1 x 2 hour Tutorial per week 4 x 3 hour labs per semester
Assessment	Assignment (30%)|Microcontroller Lab (30%)|Portfolio (40%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

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