Course Details

1. Explain how and why information is coded and manipulated in a variety of different ways.
2. Apply Boolean algebra, Karnaugh maps and algorithmic minimization techniques to analyze and design combinational digital circuits.
3. Use latches and flip flops to design and analyze synchronous and asynchronous sequential digital circuits such as counters and registers.
4. Employ EDA tools and programmable logic devices for the design and implementation of digital circuits.
5. Simulate, build and test combinational and sequential logic circuits using TTL ICs and programmable logic devices such as FPGAs.

Number systems and codes: Introduction to computer numbering systems: Binary number representation. Conversion from decimal to any base and from any base to decimal. BCD representation. Fractional and negative number representation: Sign-magnitude, radix –1 and radix complement representation. Addition and subtraction using radix complement. Excess and floating-point number representations

Combinational circuits: Basic digital components, truth tables and logic functions Karnaugh maps and algorithmic minimization techniques. Circuit implementation of logic functions. Design of combinational MSI digital circuits such as decoders, encoders, adders/subtracters, multiplexers, comparators etc. 

Sequential circuits: Latches and Set/Reset, Data, JK and Toggle flip-flops. Positive and negative edge triggered flip flops. Asynchronous flip-flop inputs. Asynchronous counters, synchronous counters and shift registers. 

Programmable Logic Devices: PLAs, PALs, CPLDs and FPGAs. Programming of FPGAs using schematic diagrams. Use of computer programs to design and simulate digital circuits.

Laboratory Exercises: Individual and small group experiments including simulation of digital circuits and implementation using TTL ICs.

• M. Mano, C. R. Kime, Logic and Computer Design Fundamentals, Prentice Hall, 2007

• Thomas Floyd, “Digital Fundamentals with VHDL ”, Prentice Hall, 2003
• John F. Wakerly, “Digital Design: Principles and Practices ”, Prentice Hall, 2003

The course is structured in lectures that are conducted with the help of both computer presentations and traditional means. Practical examples and exercises are included in the lectures to enhance the material learning process. Often short post-lecture quizzes are used to assess the level of student understanding and provide feedback. Student questions are addressed during the lecture, or privately after the lecture or during office hours.

Lecture notes are available through the web for students to use in combination with the textbooks.

Students are assessed continuously and their knowledge is checked through tests with their assessment weight, date and time being set at the beginning of the semester via the course outline.

Laboratory experiments are carried out in small groups and lab reports are required two weeks after the laboratory class resulting in a cumulative mark. The first laboratory exercises are totally structured (cookbook) in order to familiarize the students with the equipment, while later exercises are less structured, allowing the student to create their own designs or programs for a given application.

The final assessment of the students is formative and summative and is assured to comply with the subject’s expected learning outcomes and the quality of the course.