This module has been designed to build on your skills in modelling, designing, processing and simulating a range of analogue and digital systems. To support you in this the module reviews the hardware and software aspects of virtual instrumentation (VI). You’ll have the opportunity to use graphical and C/C++ programming languages using PC’s and interface cards as the hardware platform. Industry standard software tools (such as LabVIEW) will also be explored to help design and simulate real systems.

Many existing and future computer-based applications impose exceptional demands on performance that traditional predominantly single-processor systems cannot offer. Large-scale computational simulations for scientific and engineering applications now routinely require highly parallel computers. In this module you will learn about Parallel Computer Architectures, Legacy and Current Parallel Computers, trends in Supercomputers and Software Issues in Parallel Computing; you will be introduced to Computer Cluster, Cloud and Grid technologies and applications. You will study the fundamental components of Cluster environments, such as Commodity Components for Clusters, Network Services/Communication software, Cluster Middleware, Resource management, and Programming Environments. The module is assessed by examination (60%) and practical assignment based on laboratory work (40%).

Dynamic systems of inter-related entities are becoming more commonplace as computational resources are miniaturised. Examples of dynamic systems include information technology network infrastructure for communications, computational devices that have mobility, or even the inner workings of a modern central processing unit (CPU). As physical devices adopt more technology, become more ubiquitous, and contribute to inter-connected ‘smart’ environments, there is a need to be able to understand, model and design innovative solutions that embody, and take into account, these dynamic characteristics. This module will enable learners to select the most appropriate method of modelling a dynamic system, before simulating its behaviour and then optimising its performance.

Computers are extensively used in monitoring and controlling process plants. Many of the modern instruments contain a small computer chip called microcontroller. These computer chips are normally hidden in instruments and many other products such as mobile phones, cars, cameras, printers, toys etc. This module introduces the principle of computer chips and demonstrates how they can sense their surrounding environment by receiving signals from a variety of transducers and control the attached actuators such as lights and motors according to a specified control strategy. You will design and develop efficient ‘C’ programs in practical sessions and download them onto development boards containing many sensors and actuators. This will allow you to see your programs in action. The module is assessed by one assignment.

This module aims to provide you with skills that are key to helping you become a successful computing researcher or practitioner. You'll get the opportunity to study topics including the nature of research, the scientific method, research methods, literature review and referencing. The module aims to cover the structure of research papers and project reports, reviewing research papers, ethical issues (including plagiarism), defining projects, project management, writing project reports and making presentations.

The module is concerned with the principles of modern communication systems and their application in wireless communication networks, in particular the Internet of Things. It begins with a basic overview of communications techniques as used in wireless applications. It then reviews existing wireless sensor, and related, technologies such as Bluetooth, ZigBee, WirelessHart and LoRaWAN comparing their performance metrics and application areas. The role of wireless communication technologies in the Internet of Things and similar application areas will be discussed.

Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) are collections of physical and software components that communicate and interact with users via networks. CPS extend the traditional capabilities of embedded systems by incorporating sensor networks and data services to enable previously disparate systems to become more integrated through ‘smart’ capabilities. Examples of CPS include the Internet of Things (IoT), smart cities and digital manufacturing. This module will enable learners to explore contemporary issues in relation to emerging technologies that can be used to realise cyber-physical systems.

The project provides the opportunity to undertake a major programme of advanced independent work. It requires you to investigate a chosen topic and achieve specified technical goals through good planning and the application of analytical, problem-solving and design skills. The project is developed in collaboration with either an industrial company or within one of the research groups in the School. Your supervising tutor will monitor progress and provide guidance in various aspects of the project including preparation of the final report.