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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Sensor Networks and Data Transfer
Reference EN2106 Version 5
Created April 2023 SCQF Level SCQF 8
Approved July 2018 SCQF Points 30
Amended August 2023 ECTS Points 15

Aims of Module
To provide the student with the knowledge and skills to design and analyse complete sensor networks including signal communications and data transfer.

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Infer fundamental principles of communication signals, modulation schemes and transmission systems and channels.
2 Show simple digital and analogue based telecommunication systems.
3 Compare technical literature to address the different communications methods available for a transmitter and a complete sensor network.
4 Use the elements of a SCADA system, its functionality, speed of response, constraints, power requirements, how it interfaces to a process and other control systems.
5 Adopt a holistic and proportionate approach to the mitigation of security risks.
6 Show the impact of noise in data transmission in practical laboratory setting.

Indicative Module Content
Sensors and physical principles of measurement, Signal transmission and conversion, SCADA and IT security, Telemetry systems. HART, Foundation Fieldbus, Wireless. The use of symmetry. Amplitude spectra. Radio, satellite, wireless and Ethernet communication. Cable design, analogue and digital signalling, interference, voltage control, impedance. Fibre optic cable design, HART and fieldbus. Developing a cable schedule.

Module Delivery
The module is delivered in Blended Learning mode using structured online learning materials/activities and directed study, facilitated by regular online tutor support. Workplace Mentor support and work-based learning activities will allow students to contextualise this learning to their own workplace. Face-to-face engagement occurs through annual induction sessions, employer work-site visits, and modular on-campus workshops.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours 30 N/A
Non-Contact Hours 30 N/A
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours 240 N/A
TOTAL 300 N/A
Actual Placement hours for professional, statutory or regulatory body 240  

ASSESSMENT PLAN
If a major/minor model is used and box is ticked, % weightings below are indicative only.
Component 1
Type: Coursework Weighting: 50% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 2, 6
Description: Case study report
Component 2
Type: Coursework Weighting: 50% Outcomes Assessed: 3, 4, 5
Description: Case study report

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
The module has 2 components and to gain an overall pass a minimum D grade must be achieved in each component. The component weighting is as follows: C1 is worth 50% and C2 is worth 50%.
Coursework:
Coursework: A B C D E F NS
A A A B B E E
B A B B C E E
C B B C C E E
D B C C D E E
E E E E E E F
F E E E E F F
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module Completion of Stage 1, SCQF Level 7, or equivalent.
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 HENDERSON, T. C., 2009. Computational Sensor Networks. New York : Springer
2 TOUATI, Y, DAACHI B, ARAB, A.C. Energy management in wireless sensor networks. 2017. London:ISTE Press:Elsevier.
3 LOVE, J. Process Automation Handbook: A guide to Theory and Practice. 2007.
4 FRADEN, J, 2016 Handbook of Modern Sensors, 5th ed. Springer
5 HAYKIN, S. and MOHER, M., 2009. Communications Systems. 5th ed. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons.
6 OPPENHEIM, A.V.,WILLSKY, A.S. and HAMID, S. 2013. Signals and Systems. 2nd ed. Harlow: Pearson.

Robert Gordon University, Garthdee House, Aberdeen, AB10 7QB, Scotland, UK: a Scottish charity, registration No. SC013781