Modules

Core Module Information
Module title: Instrumentation Systems
SCQF level: 11:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10
Module code: ELE11114
Module leader: Abdelfateh Kerrouche
School School of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment
Subject area group: Cyber Security and Systems Engineering
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added
Description of module content:

This module delivers advanced insight into the design, integration, and evaluation of modern instrumentation systems within engineering contexts. Students will critically analyse and justify the selection of sensor technologies, signal conditioning elements, and system components, with a focus on real-world industrial and research applications. The module explores the limitations and uncertainties inherent in measurement systems, encouraging reflective evaluation of sensor accuracy, noise, and reliability. Emphasis is placed on the role of intelligent instrumentation and the influence of emerging technologies in automation and data acquisition. Students will engage with the design and architecture of intelligent control systems, including the use of various microcontrollers and embedded platforms. Through coursework and practical application, learners will demonstrate their ability to specify, design, and critically assess instrumentation systems in line with relevant professional, industrial, and regulatory standards.
Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Critically analyse and justify the selection and integration of instrumentation system components in engineering applications.

LO2: Evaluate and reflect on the limitations and uncertainties in the performance and accuracy of analytical sensors and measurement systems.

LO3: Assess the role and impact of intelligent instrumentation across a variety of industrial and research environments, with consideration of emerging technologies.

LO4: Critically appraise the architecture and design of intelligent control systems utilising various types of microcontrollers and embedded platforms.

LO5: Critically appraise the design of intelligent control systems based in different types of microcontrollers.

LO6: Demonstrate critical engagement in the specification, design and evaluation of industrial instrumentation systems, in alignment with professional and regulatory standards.
Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2025/6, Trimester 1, Blended, Edinburgh Napier University
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: Blended
Location of delivery: MERCHISTON
Partner: Edinburgh Napier University
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Abdelfateh Kerrouche
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 20 Lab sessions introduces students to the simulation of instrumentation systems using simulation tools like Proteus Design Suite for simulating electronic circuits and embedded systems. Students will design and simulate sensor interfaces, signal conditioning circuits and microcontroller-based control systems. The lab sessions focus on analysing sensor accuracy, testing system behaviour and evaluating design performance in a virtual environment.
Online Guided independent study 157 Students will undertake an independent project that requires the design, simulation and critical evaluation of an instrumentation system tailored to a real-world engineering problem. This coursework will involve research, application of theoretical knowledge, system modelling (using tools such as Proteus) and preparation of a detailed technical report including specification, design rationale and validation of results.
Face To Face Lecture 20 This lecture series provides a comprehensive exploration of modern instrumentation systems, focusing on both fundamental principles and advanced applications. Students will examine the architecture and functionality of sensors, signal conditioning, data acquisition systems, and intelligent instrumentation. The module emphasizes critical evaluation of sensor accuracy, system limitations, and the integration of smart technologies using microcontroller platforms
Face To Face Centrally Time Tabled Examination 3 The exam assesses students’ critical understanding of sensor technologies, measurement uncertainties, intelligent instrumentation and embedded system design. Students will analyse system components, evaluate sensor performance limitations, and justify the integration of microcontroller-based control architectures in various industrial and research contexts. The exam includes both analytical and conceptual questions to evaluate the student’s ability to apply theoretical principles to practical in
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Report 50 1~2~3~4~5~6 Week 10 , WORDS= 2000 For the coursework report students are required to demonstrate their ability to design, simulate and critically evaluate an instrumentation system for a specific engineering application. It should reflect a sound understanding of sensor selection, system integration, microcontroller-based control, and performance analysis. The report must show evidence of independent research, technical justification and alignment with industry practices, addressing both theoretical principles and practical implementation.
Centrally Time Tabled Examination 50 1~2~3 Exam Period HOURS= 3 The exam assesses students’ critical understanding of sensor technologies, measurement uncertainties, intelligent instrumentation and embedded system design. Students will analyse system components, evaluate sensor performance limitations, and justify the integration of microcontroller-based control architectures in various industrial and research contexts. The exam includes both analytical and conceptual questions to evaluate the student’s ability to apply theoretical principles to practical instrumentation challenges, demonstrating advanced engineering judgement and alignment with professional standards.
Component 1 subtotal: 50
Component 2 subtotal: 50
Module subtotal: 100

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