Electronic Systems

Electronic Systems

General Overview

  • Electronic systems are a collection of hardware components and circuits that perform specific, designed functions.
  • These systems can be broken down into two main types: analogue systems and digital systems.

Analogue Systems

  • Analogue systems use a continuous range of values to represent information.
  • Analogue signals are susceptible to noise interference but can represent complex information with a wide dynamic range.
  • Common components include amplifiers, resistors, capacitors, and inductors.

Digital Systems

  • Digital systems use discrete values, often binary code, to represent information.
  • These systems are less susceptible to noise, making them more reliable and accurate than analogue systems.
  • Key components include logic gates, microprocessors, and digital-to-analogue converters (DACs).

Amplifiers

  • Amplifiers are used in analogue systems to increase the amplitude of a signal.
  • Amplifiers can be classified based on their operation, function, and output characteristics, but the common types are operational (Op-Amp) and transistor-based amplifiers.

Microprocessors

  • A microprocessor is a digital system’s central processing unit (CPU) that performs calculations and processes data.
  • Microprocessors can execute a variety of tasks depending on the programming, from basic arithmetic operations to complex system control.

Signal Conversion

  • Since real-world signals are often analogue while electronic systems are digital, signal conversion is crucial.
  • An analogue-to-digital converter (ADC) transforms an analogue signal into a digital signal the system can process.
  • A digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) converts digital information back into an analogue signal for output or further processing.

Circuits and Circuit Design

  • A fundamental skill in working with electronic systems is circuit design.
  • Circuit design involves organising components on a schematic diagram in a way that allows the system to perform its function.
  • Careful calculation and consideration are needed to make sure components interact correctly and perform their intended functions efficiently.

Real-World Applications

  • Electronic systems are used in a broad range of applications, including computing, telecommunications, medical equipment, automotive electronics, and more.
  • For instance, a smartphone is an example of a complex electronic system, incorporating various digital and analogue components.

Limitations and Considerations

  • Electronic systems must be designed with care to achieve the desired accuracy, reliability, and efficiency.
  • They should be built to tolerate noise interference and temperature fluctuation.
  • Power consumption and cost are also important factors to consider during the system design process.
  • Thoughts should be given to direct and indirect impacts on the environment, including component disposal and power sourcing.