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Structured Analogue Design

About the Course

In September 2010, we will be introducing a new short course which will target the area of Audio Amplifier Design. This is a laboratory based module which explores the design, analysis, simulation and construction of an analogue audio amplifier circuit. The students will complete the module by constructing and testing their own stereo amplifier in the laboratory.

The module will provide an in-depth study of audio frequency amplifier design which will be of interest to professional engineers and scientists as well as others interested in the design of audio systems. The course has two basic aims:

to emphasise visual and intuitive understanding to create a very practical and useful circuit design experience.
to explore the fundamentals (Small and Large signal) of practical amplifier circuits utilising discrete BJTs, and to verify using modern CAD Simulation techniques.

The course content has been developed over several years as part of an analogue design stream within the Electronic Engineering Programme and will be supported by many practical design examples and simulation studies. Those attending will learn many circuit concepts to supplement their textbook knowledge.

The module forms an interesting training programme on the design of high performance transistor (bipolar or MOS) amplifiers and will prove attractive to those already possessing an engineering or scientific qualification who would like to give their professional design practice a solid conceptual base.

The course will run over one semester and the class will occur on one evening per week lasting for three hours. There will be a mix of classroom and laboratory work with a strong emphasis on “hands on” learning.

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Named Award: Single Module Certification
Programme Code: TBC
Duration: 11 weeks
Timetable: Wednesday 6pm - 9pm
Commences: September 2010

Entry Level

A minimum award of NFQ Level 6 in Electronic Engineering, Music Technology or appropriate Science programme or an equivalent qualification. Other qualifications combined with evidence of relevant employment can be taken into account. Other qualifications combined with evidence of relevant employment can be taken into account. Supporting evidence for application might includes: evidence of courses taken, a letter of support from the applicant’s company and evidence of previous experience. All candidates must have suitable competence in written and spoken English and may be required to take an interview. The Institute reserves the right to refuse an application if it is felt that the student will have problems completing the Module.

Course Content / Timetable

Every Wednesday evening from 6pm - 9pm for 11 weeks

Topics addressed by the Module:

Introduction to the analysis and design of small signal amplifiers using Ebers-Moll and small signal analysis.
Class A, B and AB circuit configurations and methods of operation
Transistor design including DC biasing and decoupling caps.
Application and analysis of feedback with respect to amplifier performance
Stability of feedback system performance and frequency domain compensator design
Amplifier design sequence and the use of SPICE simulation tools
The 2 transistor Non-Inverting Pre-Amp circuit
Large signal (Power) amplifiers, Darlington power devices
Frequency response of typical amplifier circuits and high frequency model of the BJT
Standard stabilisation using the Miller Capacitor
Tone control and EQ
Mains DC power supply requirements and routing of the earth rail

Career Opportunities

Those who complete the Module will be able to:

Analyse, design and explain the operation of small signal and large signal amplifiers.
Identify and solve problems encountered in low frequency amplifier design
Be able to construct, measure and evaluate a range of amplifier circuits using a simulation tool.
Characterise the performance and stability of compound systems incorporating feedback.
Work effectively as an individual, together with the capacity to undertake lifelong learning.
Assemble and test a Stereo amplifier on a dedicated PCB

Graduate Profiles

Select here for student profiles - Dept of Electronic Engineering

Fees & Funding

€460 (Inclusive of ITT Dublin registration fee and examination fee).

How To Apply

Pay full fees before August 31st and get a 5% reduction on your tuition fees.

Application forms for 2010/11 available to download here.

Forms are also available on request directly from the Institute by contacting the information desk, Department of Lifelong Learning. Tel: +353 1 404-2101 or by emailing lifelonglearning@ittdublin.ie

Please ensure to inlcude all relevant documentation and payment with your application form as incomplete applications will not be processed and will be returned to you.

Select here for further information on application and fee payment