BEng FT Audio Systems Engineering
- Duration:
- 3 Years
Description
This programme uses mathematics and engineering techniques to enable you to understand how technology is applied to music and audio. You will learn how computers and electronics shape electronic musical instruments, digital audio systems, music downloads, sound effects and games. In addition to a team project in your second year, you will complete an individual final-year project that will be supervised by a researcher in our world-leading Centre for Digital Music (C4DM).
The MEng follows the same structure as the BEng for the first two years with an additional two years of specialisation.
Modules
Year 1
- Signals and Information
-
Signals and Information
This first year module introduces the fundamentals of signals, Fourier Series, information theory and signal statistics. Topics covered include: signal fundamentals such as discrete versus continuous time signals; signal average, energy and power; orthogonality; Fourier Series. The module also provides an introduction to information theory, including the information measure, entropy and the binary symmetric channel. Basic ideas in statistics will also be introduced. It will be taught by a combination of lectures, tutorials and labs.
Read More - Analogue Electronic Systems
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Analogue Electronic Systems
This is a level-1 course introducing students to electronic devices, components, circuits and simple systems. There is particular emphasis on the basic theorems and techniques of electric circuit theory in relation to simple a.c. and d.c. circuits in order to provide a sound theoretical background to both analogue and digital courses in subsequent semesters.
Read More - Professional and Research Themes
- Electronic Engineering Mathematics I
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Electronic Engineering Mathematics I
This module covers linear algebra, vector algebra and analysis, and differential equations. Linear algebra includes: introduction to Matrices, addition of Matrices, multiplication of Matrices, Systems of Equations; Eigenvalues and eigenvectors. Differential Equations cover first and second order D.E, and vector algebra includes field operators and surface and volume integration in different coordinate systems. All topics will be related to engineering applications.
Read More - Procedural Programming
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Procedural Programming
This is a laboratory-based course supported by lectures. Each student will have a weekly timetabled lab session. These sessions will be backed up by a weekly two-hour lecture.
Topics include the use of:
- basic control structures
- arrays and other datatypes
- methods and recursion
- simple search and sort algorithms
- basic control structures
- arrays and other datatypes
- methods and recursion
- simple search and sort algorithms
- Introduction to Digital Audio
- Digital Circuit Design
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Digital Circuit Design
The Course is concerned with the design of digital electronic circuits. The principles of combinational and sequential logic design and the fundamentals of digital hardware design are covered.
Read More - Introduction to Multimedia
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Introduction to Multimedia
This module gives students an introduction to the representation, analysis and processing of digital multimedia.
Read More
Signals and Information
Summary:This first year module introduces the fundamentals of signals, Fourier Series, information theory and signal statistics. Topics covered include: signal fundamentals such as discrete versus continuous time signals; signal average, energy and power; orthogonality; Fourier Series. The module also provides an introduction to information theory, including the information measure, entropy and the binary symmetric channel. Basic ideas in statistics will also be introduced. It will be taught by a combination of lectures, tutorials and labs.
Credits:
15.0
Aims:
To provide an understanding of the fundamentals of signals, Fourier Series, information theory and signal statistics, including how these are evaluated, and how they are used in a limited range of practical real-world scenarios.
Analogue Electronic Systems
Summary:This is a level-1 course introducing students to electronic devices, components, circuits and simple systems. There is particular emphasis on the basic theorems and techniques of electric circuit theory in relation to simple a.c. and d.c. circuits in order to provide a sound theoretical background to both analogue and digital courses in subsequent semesters.
Credits:
15.0
Pre-requisites:
None
Aims:
To provide a sound understanding of basic devices and circuits in Electronic Engineering.
Objectives:
Explain the advantages of electronic assemblies over alternatives such as mechanical alternatives. Explain the difference between, and relative advantages, of analogue and digital operation. Explain the operation of transducers used to interface electronic assemblies to the environment. Describe the basic physics and mathematical models of passive electronic components Describe the behaviour of Resistance, Capacitance and Inductance in simple circuits. Derive equations describing the properties and steady-state behaviour of simple passive and active d.c. circuits excited by constant current and/or constant voltage sources. Use the concept and application of sinusoidal waves as an analysis and application technique applied to electronic assemblies. Derive equations describing the properties and steady-state behaviour of simple passive and active a.c. circuits excited by constant current and/or constant voltage sources in terms of both phasor diagrams and notation. Derive Thevenin and Norton equivalents of simple dc and ac circuits. Derive the Transfer Functions of simple, frequency-dependent networks such as filters. Analyse transients in simple R-C, L-C and L-C-R circuits Sketch voltage/current versus time waveforms. Use basic laboratory test equipment including, oscilloscopes, analogue and digital meters for current and voltage measurements, signal generators, timer-counters for frequency measurement and power supplies. Use decibels (dBs) in both theoretical and practical work.
Core Skills:
Conceptually model physical systems (e.g. mechanical, plasma etc) by equivalent electrical circuit networks. Apply fundamental mathematical techniques to enable description of analogous transient and resonant phenomena that occur in various physical systems.
Electronic Engineering Mathematics I
Summary:This module covers linear algebra, vector algebra and analysis, and differential equations. Linear algebra includes: introduction to Matrices, addition of Matrices, multiplication of Matrices, Systems of Equations; Eigenvalues and eigenvectors. Differential Equations cover first and second order D.E, and vector algebra includes field operators and surface and volume integration in different coordinate systems. All topics will be related to engineering applications.
Credits:
15.0
Pre-requisites:
Maths A level or equivalent
Procedural Programming
Summary:This is a laboratory-based course supported by lectures. Each student will have a weekly timetabled lab session. These sessions will be backed up by a weekly two-hour lecture.
Topics include the use of:
Credits:
15.0
Pre-requisites:
- None - .
Aims:
The major aim of this course is to teach you how to write simple programs fluently and correctly. In the course of doing this you will also learn to read and understand programs, and some basic use of an operating system. The course is given using Java under Linux, but the skills you will learn are intended to be transferable.
Objectives:
By the end of the module you will be able to: - write code at a procedural level fluently and accurately, - explain the functioning of your code to others and document it suitably, - read similar code written by others, understand it, track down errors, and make modifications. - explain technical programming concepts and discuss issues related to them.
Core Skills:
By the end of the module you will be able to: - solve problems by thinking algorithmically, - recognize when an algorithmic solution can be used to solve a range of problems - recognize the underlying logic within problems and solutions, - explain programming concepts, - compare and contrast related technical concepts - discuss issues: arguing a case based on evidence for both sides of the argument then drawing evidence-based conclusions. Programming develops a range of skills such as logical thinking and problem solving. The course also focuses on technical writing skills. These transferable skills are developed in the context of programming.
Digital Circuit Design
Summary:The Course is concerned with the design of digital electronic circuits. The principles of combinational and sequential logic design and the fundamentals of digital hardware design are covered.
Credits:
15.0
Pre-requisites:
A level Maths
Aims:
To introduce the basic theorems of digital logic; To present basic techniques for designing digital circuits; To provide the knowledge and understanding required to embark on level 2 courses concerned with digital systems and microprocessors.
Objectives:
Perform number base conversions; use complements to represent signed numbers and perform arithmetic operations with negative numbers Understand the difference between binary numbers and codes and error detection. Manipulate Boolean algebraic expressions using the Boolean postulates and theorems. Derive a Boolean function from the truth table of the function. Use a Karnaugh map to reduce a Boolean function to its minimum form. Express a combinational logic function as a logic gate circuit; convert expressions between the sum-of-products and the product-of-sums forms and implement in NAND or NOR gate form respectively. Use NAND gates to realise a half-adder logic circuit. Use the half adder as a building block for full-adders, parallel adders and multipliers. Understand the gate structure and applications of MSI logic chips such as code converters, decoders and encoders, multiplexers and demultiplexers. Devise test vectors to perform waveform analysis on combinational logic circuits. Understand how to use logic gates to build gated latches and flip-flops. Use characteristic tables and state diagrams to design sequential logic circuits. Use TTL integrated circuit logic chips to build combinational and sequential logic circuits in the lab.
Books:
Digital Design: Principles and Practices by John F. Wakerly; 4th Edition updated; Prentice Hall 2001; ISBN 0130898961
Introduction to Multimedia
Summary:This module gives students an introduction to the representation, analysis and processing of digital multimedia.
Credits:
15.0
Aims:
This module aims to provide students with: - an overview of the various types of multimedia, including images, audio and video - a basic knowledge of discrete-time signals and systems - an introduction to frequency-domain representation of signals and systems - knowledge of the theory and practice of quantisation and sampling of multimedia signals - an overview of visual and auditory perception as they relate to multimedia - an understanding of digital representations of images, audio and video including various colour space representations - an introduction to multimedia processing systems - a high-level view of the applications of practical multimedia systems
Year 2
- Programming Fundamentals
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Programming Fundamentals
The course stresses the importance and principles of computer algorithm design and structured programming techniques as a discipline for developing quality software. Fundamental concepts of software programming, including the use of pseudocodes, flowcharts and structured high-level programming languages are introduced. The C programming language is used as the high-level programming language.
Read More - Interactive Media Design and Production
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Interactive Media Design and Production
This unit will provide principles of interactive media production and design using conventional media processing tools.
Read More - Signals and Systems
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Signals and Systems
This course stresses the appreciation and use of certain transform techniques in the analysis of signals, and the related systems. Emphasis is placed on Fourier methods within the context of continuous time signals and signal processing, and the use of linear difference equations and Z transforms when signals are discrete.
Read More - Design and Build
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Design and Build
A group project for second year Electronic Engineering students to enable them to learn practical skills in solving engineering problems using software and electronics.
Read More - Database Systems
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Database Systems
Introduction to databases and their language systems in theory and practice.The main topics covered by the course are:
- The principles and components of database management systems.
- The main modelling techniques used in the construction of database systems.
- Implementation of databases using an object-relational database management system.
- SQL, the main relational database language.
- Object-Oriented database systems.
- Future trends, in particular information retrieval and data warehouses.
There are 2 timetabled lectures a week, and 1 hour tutorial per week (though not every week). There will be timetabled laboratory sessions (2 hours a week) for approximately 10 weeks.
Read More - The principles and components of database management systems.
- The main modelling techniques used in the construction of database systems.
- Implementation of databases using an object-relational database management system.
- SQL, the main relational database language.
- Object-Oriented database systems.
- Future trends, in particular information retrieval and data warehouses.
- To give an understanding of the purpose, features and facilities of database management systems.
- To give an understanding of the various database models, and their interrelationships.
- To give an understanding of, and practical experience of using, the relational database language SQL.
- Describe the facilities and features of database management systems.
- Construct database models from informal descriptions, and translate between such models.
- Implement, manipulate and query relational databases.
- Be aware of advanced database technologies.
- Describe relevant professional issues, including the role of the system administrator in DBMS use and management.
- Team working
- Written and oral communication
- Time management
- Problem solving
- Awareness of professional issues
- Telecom Systems
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Telecom Systems
This course provides a broad background to modern telecommunications systems and the underlying theory, including wireless networks and the Internet.
Read More - Microprocessor Systems Design
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Microprocessor Systems Design
The course examines the structure, applications and programming of microcontroller and similar devices. There will be practical work on using the devices as part of the module.
Read More - Software Engineering Theory
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Software Engineering Theory
Software Engineering is concerned with applying engineering principles to the production of software. This module provides the management principles, theoretical foundations, tools, notation and background necessary to develop and test large-scale software systems. The practical part of the module consists of lab assignments in which students use a range of relevant tools (a Java programming IDE, unit testing tool, configuration management tool, UML design tool, and project planning tool).
Read More - Understand the difference between programming-in-the-small and programming-in-the-large.
- Understand different software life-cycles, including how to deliver systems incrementally
- Understand and apply a range of project management techniques and tools, including planning, configuration management running effective meetings, and risk management
- Be able to use a Java IDE to develop and test programs. Understand the principles of object oriented design and UML and how to use a UML tool to document various aspects of their designs.
- Understand and apply basic software design patterns
- Understand the importance of software quality assurance and metrics, including a range of testing methods
- Be able to produce a range of documentation necessary for software systems.
- A range of interpersonal and communication skills
- A range of report writing skills, ranging from improving their technical report writing through to how to write up minutes of meetings
- Project management, time management and planning
- A range of problem solving skills
- How to arrange and conduct meetings
- A range of software documentation skills
- General office management IT skills (spreadsheets, word processing, presentation packages)
- Object oriented analysis and design
- Sound Design
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Sound Design
New module under development for 2013/14. Information pertaining to this module will appear once approved.
Read More
Programming Fundamentals
Summary:The course stresses the importance and principles of computer algorithm design and structured programming techniques as a discipline for developing quality software. Fundamental concepts of software programming, including the use of pseudocodes, flowcharts and structured high-level programming languages are introduced. The C programming language is used as the high-level programming language.
Credits:
15.0
Aims:
The course aims to give students unfamiliar with software programming: - a methodology for developing programs; - knowledge of the concepts of programming in a high-level language; - knowledge of the features of the C programming language; - practice in developing simple programs.
Objectives:
Design simple algorithms using top-down stepwise refinement. Describe the basic aspects of any high-level language. Describe the basic features of the C language. Write, debug and execute programs in the C language which fulfill a set of specifications.
Core Skills:
Manage their time effectively to prepare and finish the lab exercises. Produce written laboratory reports.
Books:
Beginning C by Ivor Horton; Wrox Press 1997; ISBN 1861001142
Extra Costs:
There are no additional costs to study this module, unless you exceed your print credit and choose to purchase additional print credit.
Interactive Media Design and Production
Summary:This unit will provide principles of interactive media production and design using conventional media processing tools.
Credits:
15.0
Pre-requisites:
ELE105, ELE207
Aims:
To study human aspects and interaction in the creation of artistic and informative media structures using commercial tools To practice presentation and design using interactive media tools To learn about different aspects of tools for interactive media To introduce optimizing principles for web images To discuss principles of image, video and graphics
Objectives:
Explain the fundamentals of hypermedia analysis and comprehension Demonstrate the skills needed for interaction in the creation of artistic and informative media structures Demonstrate skills in presentation design according to human thinking, action and creative dimensions Explain different aspects of interactive media dimensions including combinations of media production and information sciences, arts subjects, marketing, administrative sciences and education Interpret models through which interactive media can be analysed Explain how interactive multimedia is produced Demonstrate skill in producing interactive multimedia Explain how interactive multimedia is managed.
Core Skills:
Analyse information in the literature. Present a coherent report on a topic that is initially unfamiliar. Assess information and produce a summary.
Books:
Digital Multimediaby Nigel Chapman, Jenny Chapman
Signals and Systems
Summary:This course stresses the appreciation and use of certain transform techniques in the analysis of signals, and the related systems. Emphasis is placed on Fourier methods within the context of continuous time signals and signal processing, and the use of linear difference equations and Z transforms when signals are discrete.
Credits:
15.0
Pre-requisites:
ELE103 and MAE111
Aims:
The course aims to give participants an understanding of basic signal and system concepts, e.g. average value, the difference between periodic, non-periodic and random signals, and orthogonality. It further aims to give a working understanding of the use of transform techniques, including Fourier, Laplace and Z, and an appreciation of the effects of noise on signals and signal processing.
Objectives:
Explain fundamental signal analysis concepts. Calculate the parameters of the Fourier Series representation of any periodic waveform. Transform time domain signals using the Fourier, Laplace or Z Transforms as appropriate. Calculate the linear difference equation for any linear discrete time system, and explain the difference between FIR and IIR systems. Determine the unit sample response for any linear discrete time system. Calculate the value of the Index of Discrimination using discrete correlation. Determine the transfer function for any linear discrete time system and discuss stability in this context. Draw the system diagram for certain unit sample responses. Judge the effect of noise on certain signal processing operations. Interpret the applicability of signals and systems theory to real world issues and problems.
Core Skills:
Learn to use a software tool that is initially unfamiliar Present a coherent report on the topic addressed with the tool Assess the information that the tool produces, and produce a report and a summary
Books:
Continuous and Discrete Signals and Systems by S.S. Soliman and M.D. Srinath; 2nd Edition; Prentice Hall 1998; ISBN 0135184738
Extra Costs:
There are no additional costs to study this module, unless you exceed your print credit and choose to purchase additional print credit.
Design and Build
Summary:A group project for second year Electronic Engineering students to enable them to learn practical skills in solving engineering problems using software and electronics.
Credits:
15.0
Pre-requisites:
None
Aims:
To give participants experience in working as a team, project-related problem-solving skills, and implementing both hardware and software to satisfy a specification.
Objectives:
Formulated a solution to a particular problem, actively contributed to a team group, successfully documented the outcomes
Core Skills:
Demonstrate the ability to work as part of a team, managing people where appropriate, exhibited good research skills, communicated effectively within the group and to assessment staff.
Database Systems
Summary:Introduction to databases and their language systems in theory and practice.The main topics covered by the course are:
There are 2 timetabled lectures a week, and 1 hour tutorial per week (though not every week). There will be timetabled laboratory sessions (2 hours a week) for approximately 10 weeks.
Credits:
15.0
Pre-requisites:
No formal prerequisites, but some experience of programming language(s), and an awareness of some aspects of operating systems and systems design.
Aims:
Objectives:
At the end of this course the student should be able to:
Core Skills:
Books:
Database systems, Elmasri and Navathe, 6th Edition,Addison-Wesley.
Database Systems, 5th or 4th ed, Thomas Connolly and Carolyn Begg, Addison Wesley.
On-line manuals for the relational database management system used for the practicals.
Extra Costs:
There are no additional costs to study this module, unless you exceed your print credit and choose to purchase additional print credit.
Telecom Systems
Summary:This course provides a broad background to modern telecommunications systems and the underlying theory, including wireless networks and the Internet.
Credits:
15.0
Aims:
The course aims to: equip participants with a basic understanding of modern digital communications, show how communications networks are evolving, introduce important fundamental topics in coding and information theory, and provide experience in searching for information, filtering that information and presenting a summary.
Objectives:
Explain the principles of operation and architectures of circuit-switched and packet/cell-switched network; wired and wireless. Describe the operation of transmission. Calculate simple numerical problems on aspects of source coding, error-control coding, Queuing Theory and Information Theory.
Core Skills:
Assemble information on new topics. Evaluate information found.
Books:
Digital Communications (2nd Edition); I. A. Glover and P. M. Grant; Pearson; 2004; ISBN 0-130-89399-4
Microprocessor Systems Design
Summary:The course examines the structure, applications and programming of microcontroller and similar devices. There will be practical work on using the devices as part of the module.
Credits:
15.0
Pre-requisites:
ECS412U
Aims:
- To impart an understanding of the architectures of microcontrollers and microprocessors.
- To impart an understanding of the design issues in using microcontrollers and similar devices.
- To enable students to make an informed choice of microcontrollers or similar device for a particular application.
- To enable students to use microcontroller devices in electronic circuits.
Objectives:
- Understand the architecture of microcontroller and microprocessor devices.
- Understand the timing, memory and data transfer limitations of using these devices.
- Be able to choose the right device for a particular application.
- Understand of the development cycle for the devices.
- Understand interfacing issues for the devices.
- Be able to write C code and assembly code for the devices.
- Use a microcontroller in an electronic circuit.
Core Skills:
- Analyse information in the literature.
- Present a coherent report on a topic that is initially unfamiliar.
- Assess information and produce a summary.
Books:
The 8051 Microcontroller and Embedded Systems (2nd edition) by M A Mazidi and J Mazidi and R McKinlay; Prentice Hall 2006; ISBN 9780131194021
Software Engineering Theory
Summary:Software Engineering is concerned with applying engineering principles to the production of software. This module provides the management principles, theoretical foundations, tools, notation and background necessary to develop and test large-scale software systems. The practical part of the module consists of lab assignments in which students use a range of relevant tools (a Java programming IDE, unit testing tool, configuration management tool, UML design tool, and project planning tool).
Credits:
15.0
Pre-requisites:
First course in Java
Aims:
To ensure students have the necessary understanding of the principles and tools needed to build and test large-scale software systems. In particular, it provides the necessary background for students to undertake a significant group project assignment in subsequent modules or employment.
Objectives:
Core Skills:
Books:
Jia X, 'Object-Oriented Software Development Using Java, 2nd Edition' , Addison-Wesley Pub Co; ISBN: 0-201-73733-7, 2003
Horstmann C "Big Java", 2nd Edition, Wiley 2005, ISBN ISBN 0-471-69703-6
Sound Design
Summary:New module under development for 2013/14. Information pertaining to this module will appear once approved.
Credits:
15.0
Aims:
New module under development for 2013/14. Information pertaining to this module will appear once approved.
Objectives:
New module under development for 2013/14. Information pertaining to this module will appear once approved.
Core Skills:
New module under development for 2013/14. Information pertaining to this module will appear once approved.
Extra Costs:
New module under development for 2013/14. Information pertaining to this module will appear once approved.
Year 3
- Sound Recording and Production Techniques
- Digital Signal Processing
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Digital Signal Processing
This is a level 3 course which builds upon the signal processing theory introduced in ELE374, Signals and Systems Theory. The main part of the course covers the theory of digital signal processing techniques and digital filter design. The course concludes with an examination of some applications of digital signal processing.
Read More - Digital Audio Effects
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Digital Audio Effects
This course introduces digital audio effects and related subjects. The main emphasis will be on the use of digital signal processing and its applications to the creation or modification of sounds and sound effects.
Read More - Music and Speech Processing
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Music and Speech Processing
This course aims to introduce students to the application of Digital Signal Processing to music and speech.
Read More - Advanced Database Systems and Technology
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Advanced Database Systems and Technology
Active Databases, database performance tuning and query optimisation, database administration and data dictionary, Databases for XML and XML query languages: DTD, model, native database, XPath, XQuery, mapping to object-relational DBMS; Data mining: the exploration of large quantities of data for the discovery of meaningful rules and knowledge; Distributed database architectures: client-server, distributed, federated; temporal-spatial and moving objects databases.
Read More - Communication Systems Electronics
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Communication Systems Electronics
New module under development for 2012/13. Information pertaining to this module will appear once approved.
Read More - Microprocessor Systems Design
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Microprocessor Systems Design
The course examines the structure, applications and programming of microcontroller and similar devices. There will be practical work on using the devices as part of the module.
Read More - Integrated Circuit Design
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Integrated Circuit Design
The course introduces CAD, design methodology, architectures, circuit and fabrication techniques for integrated circuits. The main emphasis is on CMOS design.
Read More - Interaction Design
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Interaction Design
Traditionally, interactive systems design has focussed on enhancing people's efficiency or productivity. For example, to increase the speed with which tasks can be completed or to minimise the number of errors people make. Economic and social changes have led to a situation in which the primary use of many technologies is for social interaction and fun; i.e. in which there is no quantifiable output and no clear goal other than enjoyment. Computer games, mobile music players and online communities are all examples where the quality of the experience is the primary aim of the interaction.
This course explores the challenges these new technologies, and the industries they have created, present for the design and evaluation of interactive systems. It moves away from a human-computer interaction model which is too constrained for real world problems and provides students with an opportunity to engage with theories relating to cultural dynamics, social activity, and live performance. It explores the nature of engagement with interactive systems and between people when mediated by interactive systems.
Read More - establish the importance of social context, aesthetics and experience for interaction design
- analyse the impact of technology on human relationships and social organisation
- identify novel uses of technology to aid interaction, creativity, performance and engagement.
- provide analytic perspectives, tools and techniques that support design for user experience.
- provide experience of programming for interactional data
- To explain the contrast between conventional HCI and interaction design.
- To compare Ethnomethodology, Activity Theory and Distributed Cognition as approaches to the analysis of social context
- To provide a basic grounding in the phenomenological analysis of user experience
- To introduce concepts and models for human social interaction
- To introduce performance methods, concepts and techniques as an approach to design
- To build and exhibit an interesting interactive artifact
- Industrial and Professional Perspectives
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Industrial and Professional Perspectives
This module is intended to equip students with a better understanding of the industrial and professional context of their subject area, to enable them to see more clearly the relevance of their studies, and to inspire them to become more proactive partners in both their studies and their subsequent career. It includes significant input from external industrialists and structured, themed opportunities for students to meet with them, as well as an integrating thread of academic content.
Read More
Digital Signal Processing
Summary:This is a level 3 course which builds upon the signal processing theory introduced in ELE374, Signals and Systems Theory. The main part of the course covers the theory of digital signal processing techniques and digital filter design. The course concludes with an examination of some applications of digital signal processing.
Credits:
15.0
Pre-requisites:
ELE374
Aims:
To introduce students to the advanced concepts of processing signals that are represented as finite-precision number sequences, and to examine the role of digital signal processing techniques in digital storage and transmission.
Objectives:
Explain the principles of analogue-to-digital and digital-to-analogue conversion of band-limited signals, and be aware of the limitations and imperfections of real systems. Describe the discrete-time representation of sampled signals. Explain the concepts of linearity, time-invariance, stability, causality, discrete-time convolution and linear-coefficient difference equations. Explain the principles, theory and properties of the DTFT, the DFT and the z-transform. Understand the principles of discrete time filters (FIR and IIR). Design simple FIR linear-phase filters using the window method or by frequency-sampling design. Design computational structures for the realization of DSP algorithms for filters.
Books:
Digital Signal Processing Concepts and Applications by B. Mulgrew, P Grant and J Thompson; MacMillan 2003; ISBN 0333963563
Extra Costs:
There are no additional costs to study this module, unless you exceed your print credit and choose to purchase additional print credit.
Digital Audio Effects
Summary:This course introduces digital audio effects and related subjects. The main emphasis will be on the use of digital signal processing and its applications to the creation or modification of sounds and sound effects.
Credits:
15.0
Aims:
This course covers the entire field of digital audio effects, including some depth in the subfields and related subjects. It is concerned with the use of digital signal processing and its applications to the creation or modification of sounds and sound effects. It explains what can be done in the digital processing of sounds in the form of computer algorithms and sound examples resulting from these transformations. It describes signal processing concepts and software implementations, as well as advances in filters, delays, modulators, and time-frequency processing of sound. It primarily cover time-domain, non- linear, time-segment, time-frequency, source-filter, spectral, bitstream signal processing, spatial effects, time and frequency warping, and the control of audio effects. It is a core component necessary to provide engineering students with training in advanced music and audio technologies, and to give them the technical background and skills they need to create the tools used in audio production, audio engineering, and broadcasting. The lectures assume that the students have some basic knowledge of digital signal processing, and build upon that knowledge to teach students how to analyze and modify any musical audio signal. The lectures will use standard teaching materials and sample MATLAB code and audio files. The students will also gain an understanding of the creation, modification and modelling of digital audio, and understand how the complex algorithms are used in many common applications.
Objectives:
Methods to create a physical model of a sound or musical instrument. How audio signals are filtered, and which filter is appropriate for a given task. How to create common effects, such as wah-wah, flange, vibrato, tremolo, trill, echo... How time segment processing is performed. Specialised processing techniques often applied to audio, such as nonlinear and spectral processing, and when and how they are applied. Phase vocoder technology and how phase vocoders are used to create effects. How to do time scaling and pitch shifting on a signal, and how different methods are applied for speech and music, and for polyphonic and monophonic situations.. The effects of 3d sound, and how to reproduce a 3 dimensional effect using a minimum number of channels. Gain a general knowledge of how audio effects are produced, and how each of the audio effects mentioned in class fit into a general theory of audio analysis and effect creation.
Books:
Computational Auditory Scene Analysis by D.F. Rosenthal and H.G. Okuno; Lawrence Erlbaum Assoc. 1998; ISBN 0805822836
Extra Costs:
There are no additional costs to study this module, unless you exceed your print credit and choose to purchase additional print credit.
Music and Speech Processing
Summary:This course aims to introduce students to the application of Digital Signal Processing to music and speech.
Credits:
15.0
Pre-requisites:
ELE502, ELEM020, ELEM018
Aims:
The application-oriented nature of the syllabus will reinforce the theory learned in other courses through lectures and laboratories.
Objectives:
Describe the physiology and physics involved in sound production and perception. Demonstrate how various fundamental concepts in Digital Signal Processing can be combined into systems, like a Digital Power Amplifier. Demonstrate how higher level processing components are constructed from lower level ones. Discuss how compression of speech and of music, though similar, have different requirements. Propose specific compressors for specific applications. Identify latest innovations in this area involving delivery formats such as Internet and DVD. Position their acquired knowledge in a commercial context.
Core Skills:
Students will be able to evaluate and design complex signal processing systems.
Books:
Applications of Digital Signal Processing to Audio and Acoustics by M.Kahrs and K.Brandenburg; KAP 1998; ISBN 0792381300
Extra Costs:
There are no additional costs to study this module, unless you exceed your print credit and choose to purchase additional print credit.
Advanced Database Systems and Technology
Summary:Active Databases, database performance tuning and query optimisation, database administration and data dictionary, Databases for XML and XML query languages: DTD, model, native database, XPath, XQuery, mapping to object-relational DBMS; Data mining: the exploration of large quantities of data for the discovery of meaningful rules and knowledge; Distributed database architectures: client-server, distributed, federated; temporal-spatial and moving objects databases.
Credits:
15.0
Pre-requisites:
DCS225 Database Systems (or equivalent module): NB Students who have already taken and passed DCS317 at undergraduate level 3 may not take this masters version.
Aims:
To provide students with a critical understanding of the models, architectures and language approaches underpinning recent advances in database technology.
To enable students to carry out critical comparisons between different development and implementation approaches.
To illustrate the application of extended database technology across a range of interesting and complex applications.
Objectives:
To be able to describe approaches to the storage and access of text and semi-structured data
To describe different architectures for the provision of distributed and mobile database technology
To discuss and apply techniques for tuning the performance of database schemas and queries To compare different approaches to data mining. To discuss concepts in the design of temporal, spatial and moving objects databases.
Critically evaluate the appropriateness of different approaches to database management problems in the areas outlined above.
Core Skills:
Group working, written communication, literature research, analytical problem solving.
Communication Systems Electronics
Summary:New module under development for 2012/13. Information pertaining to this module will appear once approved.
Credits:
15.0
Aims:
New module under development for 2012/13. Information pertaining to this module will appear once approved.
Objectives:
New module under development for 2012/13. Information pertaining to this module will appear once approved.
Core Skills:
New module under development for 2012/13. Information pertaining to this module will appear once approved.
Extra Costs:
New module under development for 2012/13. Information pertaining to this module will appear once approved.
Microprocessor Systems Design
Summary:The course examines the structure, applications and programming of microcontroller and similar devices. There will be practical work on using the devices as part of the module.
Credits:
15.0
Pre-requisites:
ECS412U
Aims:
- To impart an understanding of the architectures of microcontrollers and microprocessors.
- To impart an understanding of the design issues in using microcontrollers and similar devices.
- To enable students to make an informed choice of microcontrollers or similar device for a particular application.
- To enable students to use microcontroller devices in electronic circuits.
Objectives:
- Understand the architecture of microcontroller and microprocessor devices.
- Understand the timing, memory and data transfer limitations of using these devices.
- Be able to choose the right device for a particular application.
- Understand of the development cycle for the devices.
- Understand interfacing issues for the devices.
- Be able to write C code and assembly code for the devices.
- Use a microcontroller in an electronic circuit.
Core Skills:
- Analyse information in the literature.
- Present a coherent report on a topic that is initially unfamiliar.
- Assess information and produce a summary.
Books:
The 8051 Microcontroller and Embedded Systems (2nd edition) by M A Mazidi and J Mazidi and R McKinlay; Prentice Hall 2006; ISBN 9780131194021
Integrated Circuit Design
Summary:The course introduces CAD, design methodology, architectures, circuit and fabrication techniques for integrated circuits. The main emphasis is on CMOS design.
Credits:
15.0
Pre-requisites:
ELE335 or equivalent
Aims:
To give an understanding of the technology used to manufacture integrated circuits and of the different fabrication technologies currently used. To introduce the CAD tools used in designing integrated circuits and to introduce students to the use of these tools. To explain some of the algorithms and file formats used in the CAD tools. To explain techniques used in circuit design for integrated circuits. To give students an understanding of the state of the art in integrated circuit design. To give students an understanding of IC test techniques and the importance of considering testing from the beginning of the design process.
Objectives:
Recall factual knowledge and be able to apply it in familiar and unfamiliar situations. Employ scientific, mathematical and software 'tools' to a familiar or unfamiliar situation; Interpret information presented in the form of technical circuit-diagrams, flow-charts and high-level languages. Use laboratory test equipment. Critically appraise a particular topic. Express the financial background against which decisions are made in Industry.
Core Skills:
Use CAD software Write a report on an electronic design
Books:
CMOS VLSI Design: A Circuits and Systems Perspective by N.H.E. Weste and D. Harris; 3rd International Edition; Addison-Wesley 2005; ISBN 0321269772
Interaction Design
Summary:Traditionally, interactive systems design has focussed on enhancing people's efficiency or productivity. For example, to increase the speed with which tasks can be completed or to minimise the number of errors people make. Economic and social changes have led to a situation in which the primary use of many technologies is for social interaction and fun; i.e. in which there is no quantifiable output and no clear goal other than enjoyment. Computer games, mobile music players and online communities are all examples where the quality of the experience is the primary aim of the interaction.
This course explores the challenges these new technologies, and the industries they have created, present for the design and evaluation of interactive systems. It moves away from a human-computer interaction model which is too constrained for real world problems and provides students with an opportunity to engage with theories relating to cultural dynamics, social activity, and live performance. It explores the nature of engagement with interactive systems and between people when mediated by interactive systems.
Credits:
15.0
Pre-requisites:
GUI or Interactive System Design or by arrangement with course leader.
Good java/general programming skills.
Aims:
This course aims to:
Objectives:
Core Skills:
Communication skills
1 Communicate effectively in writing in a style appropriate to the situation (may include visual/graphic media where appropriate)
Examination, exercises, and coursework test such skills.
2 Close read and synthesise information from extended documents including abstract ideas/ arguments to extract lines of reasoning
The recommended course reading list provides the material to develop these skills.
3 Understand, interpret and use specialist vocabulary
An understanding of the basic principles of psychology, sociology, and ethnomethodology is acquired.
4 Make an oral presentation
There is scope for students to present and discuss work orally in lectures.
Working with others
5 Establish and maintain co-operative working relationships and agree ways to overcome difficulties
N/A
6 Plan and agree group objectives , responsibilities and working arrangements
N/A
7 Interact effectively and create opportunities for others to contribute to discussions; exchange information and ideas and modify responses
Courseworks enable students to develop and practice the above skills. Lectures provide feedback and discussion opportunities. In addition there is scope for students to present work and engage in discussion about the topics covered
8 Review work with others, including factors that influence the outcome.
Courseworks enable students to develop and practice the above skills, as does critical reflection in the lectures.
Problem Solving
9 Explore the problem, identifying key areas and compare and choose the appropriate tools/ methods for its resolution (and be able to justify that choice)
N/A
10 Plan and implement methods, review progress and revise as necessary
N/A
11 Apply agreed methods to check the problem has been resolved
N/A
Numeracy
12 Select and use numerical information and methods appropriate to the discipline
Courseworks require students to select between different analytic approaches.
13 Carry out multi-stage calculations, including those of a large data set
N/A
14 Explain and justify the choice of methods and the results of calculations
Justification of approach are part of the assessment process
The use of information technology
15 Search and select appropriate information from a range of sources based on judgements of relevance and quality
Courseworks enable students to develop and practice the such skills in a group setting, with feedback from peers and assessors.
16 Use a software package to manage references
N/A
17 Use a range of methods to explore, develop and exchange information
N/A
Learning how to learn, (improving own learning and performance.)
18 Develop appropriate research strategies & take responsibility for learning with minimum direction
Coursework is self-directed with students selecting from a range of open ended possibilities.
19 Manage learning using available resources
Online and library resources are used to support this course's learning infrastructure.
20 Evaluate strengths and weaknesses, challenge received opinion and develop own criteria and judgement
Coursework involves critical reflection on their own, and other's work using approaches covered in the course.
Personal & professional development
21 Collect, record and analyse data relating to potential occupational areas
N/A
22 Reflect on and record development of own career ideas
N/A
Extra Costs:
There are no additional costs to study this module, unless you exceed your print credit and choose to purchase additional print credit.
Industrial and Professional Perspectives
Summary:This module is intended to equip students with a better understanding of the industrial and professional context of their subject area, to enable them to see more clearly the relevance of their studies, and to inspire them to become more proactive partners in both their studies and their subsequent career. It includes significant input from external industrialists and structured, themed opportunities for students to meet with them, as well as an integrating thread of academic content.
Credits:
15.0
Extra Costs:
There are no additional costs to study this module, unless you exceed your print credit and choose to purchase additional print credit.
Careers
Graduates of these degree programmes are well- suited to careers in the creative media industries. Our graduates have the skills to develop and work with the digital audio tools of tomorrow. A wide range of opportunities is available, for example in professional audio companies, the recording industry and music business.
Entry Requirements
Specific Condition(s): A-level or equivalent Mathematics.
Student Projects
Steganography
This project was about steganography, (the word means hidden writing).
Read moreSteganography
Key Contacts
Undergraduate Admissions Administrator
Student Voices
Tanvi Srivastava
BSc Computer Science"The friendly and welcoming atmosphere makes you feel 'at home' from day one... I really like that there is a lot of interaction between undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral students which is very inspiring and motivating."
Read moreTanvi Srivastava
The friendly and welcoming atmosphere make you feel ‘at home’ from day one. I chose Queen Mary because it has an excellent national and international reputation. It is also ranked highly in the university league tables. The fact that I was offered a scholarship was icing on the cake!
My course is very well-structured. You are constantly on your toes, learning one new thing after another and you get a lot of feedback in the form of coursework, projects and so on. The students also get a chance to pitch their opinions and suggestions about the functioning of the School.
Emphasis is placed on innovation, creative thinking, and the application of knowledge rather than rote learning. The professors make a point of setting mentally stimulating coursework that lays the foundation for advanced topics. They are always willing to answer questions, whether in lectures or in their offices. Another thing that I really like is that there is a lot of interaction between undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral students which is very inspiring and motivating.
I have been at Queen Mary for only a year so far but I can say that this has been the best year of my life, both academically and personality-wise. I am much more confident and sure about myself. I feel motivated and charged to face my second year and hope to make the most of my time here.