Course coordinator
Dr Hui Ma
Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 1, 2025 (24/02/2025 - 21/06/2025)
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Location
- St Lucia
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- St Lucia
- Coordinating unit
- Elec Engineering & Comp Science School
Physical models of semiconductor devices. Analysis and design of common electronic circuits using discrete semiconductor devices and operational amplifiers. Examples of use in analysis & design of amplifiers, analogue signal conditioning, filters and other circuits.
The broad focus of ELEC2400 is the study, analysis and design of electronic circuits. By the end of the course students should have the skills to comprehensively analyse, simulate and design electronic circuits using discrete semiconductors such as BJT and FET transistors as well as using op-amps.
The course will apply a range of analytical technique for modelling, analysing and designing electronic circuits. These include:
- Linear circuit theorems (node and mesh analysis, superposition, equivalent circuits analysis such as Thévenin and Norton)
- Amplifier models
- Differential and multistage amplifiers
- Operational Amplifier Circuits andﾠApplications
- These techniques will be applied in the analysis and design of amplifiers and other analogue circuits.
Students will be expected to demonstrate their knowledge in theoretical work and formal laboratory experiments.
Based on previous student feedback, the tutorials will be conducted in small groups with more focussed content.ﾠ
Course requirements
Prerequisites
You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:
ENGG1300 and (MATH1051 or MATH1071) and (MATH1052 or MATH1072)
Incompatible
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
ELEC3400
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Dr Hui Ma
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Aims and outcomes
Theﾠaim of this course is to provide students with a thorough background in the principles of analogue electronic circuit analysis and design. Students completing this course will be able to analyse, model, design and build circuits using discrete components (i.e. transistors) and analogue integrated circuits (i.e. op-amps). Students will be able to recognise the application of analoge electronics to other engineering disciplines, and to be able to apply their skills to multidisciplinary problems.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Use analytical tools such as the application of Ohm's law (nodal analysis, mesh analysis, Norton and Thvenin Equivalent circuits) to analyse complex circuits containing passive components (resistors, capacitors, inductors) and dependent and independent sources.
LO2.
Apply amplifier models to model the behavior of arbitrary circuits.
LO3.
Apply electronic circuit models of active electronic devices such as diodes, transistors (BJTs, FETs) and operational amplifiers to analyse and model the properties and behavior of single stage amplifier circuits.
LO4.
Use a systems approach to analyse and synthesise a complex multi-stage electronic circuit (i.e. the internal circuitry of a simple op-amp). In particular, students should be able to "break the circuit down" into stages; model each stage using appropriate circuit analysis techniques (both large signal and small signal behavior); And using the models for each circuit stage, predict the behavior of the entire circuit.
LO5.
Apply a systems approach and frequency domain analysis techniques to predict the frequency response of amplifier circuits.
LO6.
Use computerized models of electronics (including: circuit simulation package's such as CircuitLab; MATLAB) in analyzing and synthesizing electronic circuits. Students should be able to explain the limitations of such packages both in general, and in the context of a specific problem.
LO7.
Apply the engineering design process to develop analogue electronic circuits which address/solve some problem (typically starting from a given set of broad, general specifications). The specifications may originate from a multi-disciplinary, real world application.
LO8.
Build, test, optimize and document practical implementations of analogue electronic circuits such as multistage amplifiers.
LO9.
Effectively collaborate within a group and communicate the design, development and critical analysis of an electronics design project using oral communication, written communication and appropriate engineering drawing.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Practical/ Demonstration |
Practical lab work
|
20% |
12/03/2025 - 30/05/2025
During the lab/prac session. Venue: 50-S105 |
| Tutorial/ Problem Set | Tutorial Exercise Submission 1 | 10% |
17/04/2025 4:00 pm
More information is available through Blackboard |
| Tutorial/ Problem Set | Tutorial Exercise Submission 2 | 10% |
29/05/2025 4:00 pm
More information is available through Blackboard |
| Examination |
End of Semester Exam - Invigilated closed book
|
60% |
End of Semester Exam Period 7/06/2025 - 21/06/2025 |
A hurdle is an assessment requirement that must be satisfied in order to receive a specific grade for the course. Check the assessment details for more information about hurdle requirements.
Assessment details
Practical lab work
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Activity/ Performance, Written
- Category
- Practical/ Demonstration
- Weight
- 20%
- Due date
12/03/2025 - 30/05/2025
During the lab/prac session.
Venue: 50-S105
- Other conditions
- Time limited.
Task description
Five lab/prac sessions will be conducted during the semester (starting from Week 3). Total 20 marks of the lab/prac sessions and distributions of each lab/prac sessions are Prac 1 - 3 marks; Prac 2 - 4 marks; Prac 3 - 4 marks; Prac 4 - 4 marks; Prac 5 - 5 marks.
When attending the labs each student must bring a hard copy of the lab worksheet and the breadboard. If pre lab work is given for a particular lab/prac that work needs to be completed before attending the particular lab session. Labs are running for 3 hrs. Students are expected to be able to complete the assigned work in the first two hours. In the last hour course staffs will provide feedback. All lab work is assessed individually.
Performance in the practical will be assessed using a combination of completing pre lab questions, active participation and performance in the lab, and completed lab worksheet including recorded results and discussions. At the end of each session course staffs will mark the lab sheets and provide feedback. Hence, good preparation is a prerequisite for a good outcome in lab/prac session.
As lab/prac sessions are designed to complete within the set time limit NO STUDENT can enter the lab 20 min after the start time of each lab session. Students are required to present their student ID when submitting the reports at the end of the session.
This assessment task evaluates students' abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT). Students are advised that the use of AI or MT technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
If you were not able to attend a lab session a formal request can be submitted. Instructions for how to formally submit extension requests is available here. Extension requests sent directly to Course Coordinators in the School of EECS will not be considered. Due to logistic issues, extensions of up to a maximum of one week will be provided for rescheduling the labs./pracs.
Submission guidelines
Individual hardcopy submission during the lab session.
Deferral or extension
You cannot defer or apply for an extension for this assessment.
Prac reports are completed as part of a scheduled prac class.
If there are exceptional circumstances, an exemption may be approved and may involve submitting/discussing your work as it stands. Exemptions must be requested as an extension with a note specifying exemption via my.UQ. If you are unable to attend a scheduled lab session for a valid reason a formal request has to be submitted. Due to logistic issues, extensions of up to a maximum of one week will be provided for rescheduling the labs.
Late submission
You will receive a mark of 0 if this assessment is submitted late.
If report is not submitted during the lab session no marks will be offered for the corresponding lab.
Tutorial Exercise Submission 1
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Tutorial/ Problem Set
- Weight
- 10%
- Due date
17/04/2025 4:00 pm
More information is available through Blackboard
Task description
Tutorial exercise 1 should be submitted at 4pm Thursday, 17th April. Assignment for submission will be available in the Blackboard in Week 6. Overall the submission will be worth 10 marks.
The submissions are collected through Blackboard. The assignment problems will be a similar style and structure to those in the final semester exams. Please make use of the help available to you in the tutorials, discussion board and consultation time.
Tutorial submission solutions should be developed as an individual task. Students are encouraged to discuss the tasks with peers and teaching staff. However, copying the solutions from another student/s or any other sources is not allowed and will lead to a student misconduct investigation.
This assessment task evaluates students' abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT). Students are advised that the use of AI or MT technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
If required an extension can be requested for this assessment. Instructions for how to formally submit extension requests is available here. Extension requests sent directly to Course Coordinators in the School of EECS will not be considered.
Submission guidelines
Through the Turnitin link provided in Blackboard
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 7 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
This course uses a progressive assessment approach where feedback and/or detailed solutions will be released to students within 14 days.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
Tutorial Exercise Submission 2
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Tutorial/ Problem Set
- Weight
- 10%
- Due date
29/05/2025 4:00 pm
More information is available through Blackboard
Task description
Tutorial exercise 2 should be submitted at 4pm Thursday, 29th May. Assignment for submission will be available in the Blackboard in Week 10. Overall the submission will be worth 10 marks.
The submissions are collected through blackboard. The assignment problems will be a similar style and structure to those in the final semester exams. Please make use of the help available to you in the tutorials, discussion board and consultation time.
Tutorial submission solutions should be developed as an individual task. Students are encouraged to discuss the tasks with peers and teaching staff. However, copying the solutions from another student/s or any other sources is not allowed and will lead to a student misconduct investigation.
This assessment task evaluates students' abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT). Students are advised that the use of AI or MT technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
If required an extension can be requested for this assessment. Instructions for how to formally submit extension requests is available here. Extension requests sent directly to Course Coordinators in the School of EECS will not be considered.
Submission guidelines
Through the Turnitin link provided in Blackboard
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 7 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
This course uses a progressive assessment approach where feedback and/or detailed solutions will be released to students within 14 days.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
End of Semester Exam - Invigilated closed book
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 60%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
7/06/2025 - 21/06/2025
- Other conditions
- Time limited.
Task description
The final exam will assess all materials presented during the course. This is a closed-book, on-campus, invigilated exam. The exam exam duration will be 120 min. More information about the exam format will be discussed during the class time.
Hurdle requirements
To pass the course (GP 4 and above), students must get at least 40% in the Final Exam. Ifﾠa student do not fulfil 40% requirement, but their overall mark is 50 or more, then theﾠoverall mark will be capped at 49%, grade capped at 3.Exam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 120 minutes |
| Calculator options | (In person) Casio FX82 series only or UQ approved and labelled calculator |
| Open/closed book | Closed Book examination - no written materials permitted |
| Exam platform | Paper based |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Cut off Percent | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) | 0 - 19 |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Fails to satisfy most or all of the basic requirements of the course. Some engagement with the assessment tasks; however, no demonstrated evidence of understanding of the concepts in the field of study |
| 2 (Fail) | 20 - 46 |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Fails to satisfy some of the basic requirements of the course: Deficiencies in understanding the fundamental concepts of the field of study Inability to identify data, cases, problems and their solutions, and implications Presents inappropriate or unsupported arguments Inability to apply knowledge and skills Communicates information or ideas in ways that are frequently incomplete, confusing and not appropriate to the conventions of the discipline. |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) | 47 - 49 |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes Course grade description: Falls short of satisfying all the requirements for a Pass: As evidenced by failing to successfully complete basic assessment tasks and so receive a final percentage grade of between 45 and 49%. Superficial understanding of the fundamental concepts of the field of study Attempts to identify data, cases, problems and their solutions, and implications Presents undeveloped arguments Emerging ability to apply knowledge and skills Communicates information or ideas with limited clarity and inconsistent adherence to the conventions of the discipline |
| 4 (Pass) | 50 - 64 |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: To successfully pass the course (GP 4), the student should have following: - Adequate knowledge of fundamental concepts of the field of study Identifies data, cases, problems and their solutions, and implications Develops routine arguments or decisions Acceptable application of knowledge and skills in power systems operations Uses some of the conventions of the discipline to communicate appropriately |
| 5 (Credit) | 65 - 74 |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: To obtain a credit (GP 5), in addition to criteria for a GP of 4,ﾠthe student should demonstrate the below criteria. Good knowledge of fundamental concepts of the field of study Considered evaluation of data, cases, problems and their solutions, and implications Develops or adapts convincing arguments and provides coherent justification Effective application of knowledge and skills Uses the conventions of the discipline to communicate at an effective level. |
| 6 (Distinction) | 75 - 84 |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: To obtain a distinction (GP 6), in addition to criteria for a GP of 5,ﾠthe student should demonstrate the below criteria. Substantial knowledge of fundamental concepts of the field of study Critical evaluation of data, cases, problems and their solutions, and implications Perceptive insights in identifying, generating and synthesising competing arguments or perspectives Extensive application of knowledge and skills Uses the conventions of the discipline to communicate at a professional level. |
| 7 (High Distinction) | 85 - 100 |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: To obtain a high distinction (GP 7), in addition to criteria for a GP of 6, the student should demonstrate the below criteria. Mastery of content Expert and critical evaluation of data, cases, problems and their solutions, and implications Significant and sophisticated insights in identifying, generating and synthesising competing arguments or perspectives Original, novel and/or creative application of knowledge and skills Exploits the conventions of the discipline to communicate at an expert level |
Additional course grading information
Having Troubles?
If you are having difficulties with any aspect of the course material you should seek help. Speak to the course teaching staff.
If external circumstances are affecting your ability to work on the course, you should seek help as soon as possible. The University and UQ Union have organisations and staff who are able to help, for example, UQ Student Services are able to help with study and exam skills, tertiary learning skills, writing skills, financial assistance, personal issues, and disability services (among other things).
- Complaints and criticisms should be directed in the first instance to the course coordinator. If you are not satisfied with the outcome, you may bring the matter to the attention of the School of EECS Director of Teaching and Learning
Use of AI
All assessment tasks evaluate students' abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT). Students are advised that the use of AI technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Additional assessment information
Having Troubles?
If you are having difficulties with any aspect of the course material, you should seek help. Speak to course staff and/or the course coordinator.
If external circumstances are affecting your ability to work on the course, you should seek help as soon as possible. The University and UQ Union have organizations and staff who are able to help, for example, UQ Student Services are able to help with study and exam skills, tertiary learning skills, writing skills, financial assistance, personal issues, and disability services (among other things).
Complaints and criticisms should be directed in the first instance to the course coordinator. If you are not satisfied with the outcome, you may bring the matter to the attention of the School of EECS Director of Teaching and Learning.
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Find the required and recommended resources for this course on the UQ Library website.
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Week 1 (24 Feb - 02 Mar) |
Lecture |
Course overview, Fundamentals of Circuit Analysis Teaching and discussions; directed reading; self-studies; revision of selected areas of 'assumed knowledge'. |
Multiple weeks From Week 2 To Week 13 |
General contact hours |
Problem solving The problem solving will start from the second week and will continue throughout the semester. The contact sheets will be available through Blackboard. |
Practical |
Formal Laboratory Exercises The laboratory work in ELEC2400 is a series of five formal laboratory experiments consisting of (1) Diode Circuit; (2) Discrete BJT Amplifiers; (3) Multiple stage amplifiers; (4) Discrete FET Amplifiers; and (5)Instrumentation circuits. More details please see the Blackboard course site. |
|
Week 2 (03 Mar - 09 Mar) |
Lecture |
Introduction to Semiconductor Devices; Diodes Brief introduction of semiconductors, PN junction, diode, circuit analysis with diode. |
Multiple weeks From Week 3 To Week 4 |
Lecture |
Bipolar Junction Transistors Bipolar junction transistor operation in amplifier circuits; load-line technique; |
Multiple weeks From Week 5 To Week 6 |
Lecture |
Multi-stage Transistor Amplifier Gain stage and output stage of a multistage amplifier; analyze a simplified multistage bipolar amplifier; design a diff-amp with an output gain stage to meet a set of specifications. |
Week 7 (07 Apr - 13 Apr) |
Lecture |
Amplifier Models and External Characteristics Basic concepts of amplifiers, Generic amplifier models, external specifications of amplifiers in selecting them for instrumentation application. |
Week 8 (14 Apr - 20 Apr) |
Lecture |
Case Studies, and Course Revision BJT Circuits Revision and Case Studies |
Week 9 (28 Apr - 04 May) |
Lecture |
Field Effect Transistors MOSFET operation, load-line technique, bias circuits, small-signal equivalent circuits, performance parameters of several FET amplifier configurations. |
Week 10 (05 May - 11 May) |
Lecture |
Current Source Different types of current sources |
Multiple weeks From Week 11 To Week 12 |
Lecture |
Discrete Differential Amplifiers Characteristics of the basic bipolar differential amplifier, characteristics of the basic MOSFET differential amplifier, BJT and FET differential |
Week 13 (26 May - 01 Jun) |
Lecture |
Operational Amplifier Circuit & Applications Operational Amplifier Circuit & Applications |
Lecture |
Revision Revision |
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments - Students Policy and Procedure
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.
You'll also need to be aware of the following policies and procedures while completing this course:
School guidelines
Your school has additional guidelines you'll need to follow for this course: