Sequential Logic (SQA HN Unit DG53 34)

Much of the developments seen today in modern technology are down to the techniques you will study in this Unit - computers, internet technology - switches hubs and routers, CD and DVD technology, Mini Disks, MP3 players, Electronic Musical Instruments, MIDI, MP3 players, mobile phones, satellite communications, CAD/CAM systems — the list goes on and on.

This Unit has been designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills that will enable you to understand the important techniques of Sequential Logic. You will learn how Sequential Logic Circuits are organised, how they are different from Combinational Logic Circuits and also how they are constructed using a mixture of gates and bistables.
When you studied Combinational logic you learned about the basic building block of a combinational logic circuit - the gate; in this Unit you will learn about the basic building block of a Sequential Logic circuit - the Bistable.

You will investigate the operation of the most common bistables and how they can be connected to form Sequential Logic Circuits.

You will learn how to design the two major classes of sequential circuit - the Sequence Generator and the Sequence Detector, these circuits are at the heart of all of the technologies mentioned above.

In modern electronic design computers are used to simulate designs before going to the expense of production, in this Unit you will learn how to simulate your designs on computer.

This Unit will also allow you to develop practical skills that will enable you to successfully build and test the designs you have created.

You will be required to undertake both written graphical, computer simulation and practical assessments.

Credit points and level: 1 HN credit at SCQF level 7: (8 SCQF credit points at SCQF level 7).

This is a self study course which means you can study at home, workplace or wherever you choose at times that are convenient for you. You do not have any classes to attend.

The materials for this course are provided as web-pages for you to work through online. As you progress through the course materials you will find written explanations of each feature, followed by practical exercises.

You will be supported throughout the course by a specialist Distance Learning Tutor. Your tutor will contact you (via your College email account) within 7-10 working days of receiving your welcome letter and materials. As you progress they will continue to make regular contact to offer support and guidance, usually by e-mail but sometimes by phone, to ensure you are making good progress and to support your learning throughout. Please note that you must be able to study independently through the course materials.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

The assessment for Outcomes 1, 2 and the Shift Register Block Diagrams part of Outcome 3 is combined into one assessment paper. This paper should be taken by candidates at one single assessment event, lasting one hour. The assessment paper should be composed of a suitable balance of short answer, restricted response and written graphical exercises as specified for each Outcome. Assessment should be conducted under controlled, supervised conditions.

The design part of Outcome 3 should be carried out under closed book conditions followed by the Simulation, Build and Test Assessment for Outcome 4 carried out as an Assignment. The design – simulate - build and test should be done within 3 hours. It should be noted that candidates must achieve all the minimum evidence specified for each Outcome in order to pass the Unit.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Candidates should possess a basic knowledge and understanding of combinational logic. This may be evidenced by the possession of the HN Unit Combinational Logic or NQ Units E9S3 11 Combinational Logic; E9SG 12 Sequential Logic; E9SB 12 Logic Families and Digital System Analysis or an appropriate equivalent.