MCO455 - Microcontroller Concepts

Outline information
Semester
Schools offering this subject
Last revision date 2023-10-02 00:45:52.379
Last review date 2023-12-04 00:15:09.231

Subject Title
Microcontroller Concepts

Subject Description
This is a one-semester introductory micro controller subject that deals with both the hardware and software of 32-bit devices. The micro controller used in MCO455 is the NXP FRDM-K64. It is one of over 170 different
MicroController boards that is supported by a development platform called MBED. Mbed was developed by ARM, the leader in 32-bit Micro Controllers that are developed specifically for IoT.

The subject examines introductory micro controller and IoT concepts. MBED provides a cloud compiler for program development. This compiler comes with a library written in C++ that is open source, royalty free and
works with over 170 different 32-bit micro controller boards from a variety of manufacturers. We will be exporting code developed on the CLOUD Compiler to MCUXpresso, that will allow us to trouble shoot the code down to the hardware registers of the FRDM-K64.

Credit Status
This is a one-credit subject for students in Engineering Technology or Engineering Technician Programs.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

  1. Perform conversions and calculations in and among hexadecimal, binary, octal, BCD, and decimal number systems without a calculator including
  2. Perform SIGNED/UNISIGNED calculations and check for Overflows, Negative and Zero Conditions
  3. Characterize how a micro controller system works, using such concepts as ADDRESS BUS, DATA BUS, Read/Write Line, and CLOCK.
  4. Identify, analyze and distinguish between various types of memory on the Microcontroller system (RAM, EEPROM, FLASH, and I/O).
  5. Use Condition Code Register bits N, Z, V and C to change program flow.
  6. Produce and interpret code in the MBED Cloud compiler and use MCUXpresso to SINGLE STEP to analyze and debug programs.
  7. Understand the application of a 32-bit micro controller in an IoT context, such as wireless mesh networks using 6LowPan, secure chip to cloud communications, etc.
  8. Design, analyze and troubleshoot circuits with microcontrollers and write code in high level languages to interface with hardware.
  9. Understand the application of interrupt service routine to detect motion on the Passive Infrared motion detector.
  10. Communicate with cell phone through BLE module to display GPS, and other data using the BLUEFRUIT App.
  11. Use cell phone with the BLUEFRUIT App to interface and control hardware
  12. Use MQTT (Message Queue Telemetry Transport) to interact with a Web page dashboard to provide interaction to/from the hardware connected to the FRDM-K64.

Essential Employability Skills

    •  Communicate clearly, concisely and correctly in the written, spoken and visual form that fulfils the purpose and meets the needs of the audience.

    •  Execute mathematical operations accurately.

    •  Apply a systematic approach to solve problems.

    •  Use a variety of thinking skills to anticipate and solve problems.

    •  Interact with others in groups or teams in ways that contribute to effective working relationships and the achievement of goals.

    •  Manage the use of time and other resources to complete projects.

    •  Take responsibility for one's own actions, decisions, and consequences.

Academic Integrity
Seneca upholds a learning community that values academic integrity, honesty, fairness, trust, respect, responsibility and courage. These values enhance Seneca's commitment to deliver high-quality education and teaching excellence, while supporting a positive learning environment. Ensure that you are aware of Seneca's Academic Integrity Policy which can be found at: http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-integrity-policy.html Review section 2 of the policy for details regarding approaches to supporting integrity. Section 2.3 and Appendix B of the policy describe various sanctions that can be applied, if there is suspected academic misconduct (e.g., contract cheating, cheating, falsification, impersonation or plagiarism).

Please visit the Academic Integrity website http://open2.senecac.on.ca/sites/academic-integrity/for-students to understand and learn more about how to prepare and submit work so that it supports academic integrity, and to avoid academic misconduct.

Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecapolytechnic.ca.

Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Accessibility Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.

Camera Use and Recordings - Synchronous (Live) Classes
Synchronous (live) classes may be delivered in person, in a Flexible Learning space, or online through a Seneca web conferencing platform such as MS Teams or Zoom. Flexible Learning spaces are equipped with cameras, microphones, monitors and speakers that capture and stream instructor and student interactions, providing an in-person experience for students choosing to study online.

Students joining a live class online may be required to have a working camera in order to participate, or for certain activities (e.g. group work, assessments), and high-speed broadband access (e.g. Cable, DSL) is highly recommended. In the event students encounter circumstances that impact their ability to join the platform with their camera on, they should reach out to the professor to discuss. Live classes may be recorded and made available to students to support access to course content and promote student learning and success.

By attending live classes, students are consenting to the collection and use of their personal information for the purposes of administering the class and associated coursework. To learn more about Seneca's privacy practices, visit Privacy Notice.