Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Introduction to Electrical Engineering and Circuits
School
EPS
Module
Co-ordinator
EECE Teaching group Convener
SCQF
Level
7
1. Pre-requisites
None
2. Linked Modules
(specify if synoptic)
3. Excluded Modules
None
4. Replacement Module
None
Code:
Date Of Replacement:
5.
Module
Code
B37EA
Availability as an
Elective
Semester
Yes

1
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
No
6. Degrees for which this
is a core module
7. Aims
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)
To explain fundamental concepts of Electrical Engineering using modern everyday examples.
To present concepts of energy, power, charge, voltage, current and resistance.
To present basic magnetic field concepts.
To present basic feedback control concepts.
To present different methods for analysing multi-loop circuits.
Circuit simplification theorems.
Introduction to load-line method for circuits with nonlinear elements
To provide an introduction to capacitance and inductance as circuit elements and the properties of such elements.
To illustrate the role of engineers in society.
8. Syllabus
Energy, power, charge, voltage, current and resistance. Calculation of voltage multipliers and current shunts to extend meter operating range. Conductors moving in a
magnetic field, force exerted and e.m.f. induced. Introduction to feedback control systems. Illustration of the various roles of engineers in society. The role of the
engineer as an entrepreneur. Introduction to network analysis methods – Kirchhoff, mesh and nodal. Thevenin and Norton circuit reduction theorems. Maximum power
transfer theorem. Use of superposition in analysing circuits. Introduction to capacitors and inductors and their transient behaviour. Load-line method for analysing
circuits.
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Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Introduction to Electrical Engineering and Circuits
School
EPS
Module
Co-ordinator
EECE Teaching group Convener
SCQF
Level
7
Module
Code
B37EA
Semester
1
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
9. Learning Outcomes (HWU Core Skills: Employability and Professional Career Readiness)
Subject Mastery
Understanding, Knowledge and Cognitive Skills
Scholarship, Enquiry and Research (Research-Informed Learning)
To provide an understanding into the basics of electrical engineering circuit concepts in order to be able to solve fairly simple problems.
Identify and solve problems using Ohm's Law
Understand the principle of superposition
Identify and solve problems using the superposition theorem
Apply Thevenin and Norton’s theorems to simple dc circuits
Analyse dc networks using source conversion
Understand and apply node analysis to dc networks
Understand the concept of maximum power transfer and apply in practice.
To provide fundamental knowledge of capacitance and inductance concepts and to be able to solve basic problems with these circuit components.
Personal Abilities
Industrial, Commercial & Professional Practice
Autonomy, Accountability & Working with Others
Communication, Numeracy & ICT
At the end of this module, the student should be able to apply the fundamental and core concepts of the underlying principles of electrical
engineering to simple electrical engineering circuits. Understanding of the different important roles engineers play in society.
10. Assessment Methods
Method
11. Re-assessment Methods
Duration of Exam
Weighting (%)
Synoptic modules?
Method
(if applicable)
Coursework
Examination
2 hours
Duration of Exam
(if applicable)
30
70
No
Examination
2 hours
12. Date and Version
Date of Proposal
26 February 2010
Date of Approval by
School Committee
Date of
Implementation
Version
Number
1.0
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