Data Acquisition and Communications unit (ENG324)

Hobart

Introduction

Data acquisition and communication systems

This unit provides students with comprehensive training in the design and management of advanced data acquisition and communication systems, with a focus on robust and efficient data transmission in dynamic environments. Students will explore digital and analogue modulation techniques, data acquisition concepts, signal conditioning, and network communication protocols, gaining the technical expertise to develop systems that support real-time decision-making in power systems, renewable energy networks, and industrial applications.

Emphasizing system reliability and data integrity, students will study error correction, cryptography, and noise mitigation strategies, applying these concepts to real-world scenarios such as wind farms and grid-connected renewable energy sources.

Through simulation-based learning, hands-on problem-solving, and theoretical analysis, students will gain the skills to design, optimize, and implement communication networks that ensure accurate environmental data collection, secure information exchange, and efficient system performance.

Summary

Unit name	Data Acquisition and Communications
Unit code	ENG324
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Engineering
Discipline	Engineering
Coordinator	Doctor Brian Salmon
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Advanced

Availability

Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August

Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Semester 2	4/7/2027	26/7/2027	29/8/2027	23/10/2027

* 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 2027 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2027 will be available from the 1st October 2026. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

• Design and optimise data acquisition systems to ensure accurate environmental data collection
• Analyse and apply advanced digital and analogue modulation techniques for efficient data communication in noisy environments
• Design a communication network plan with focus on protocols, robustness, reliability and efficiency
• Implement error detection and correction techniques alongside basic cryptography to safeguard information in industrial and environmental applications

Fee Information

2027 fee information will be available in August.

Requisites

Prerequisites

ENG216 Signals and Systems

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	1 x 2 hour Lectures per week 1 x 2 hour Tutorials per week 2 hour workshop/ labs per fortnight
Assessment	Midterm Test (20%)|Final Exam (40%)|Simulation Project (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.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.