Description

The hardware modules developed include:

• microprocessor modules based on the analog device ADuC832; 
• three output units - LED, 7-segment display and LCD;
• three input units - keypad, infra-red sensor and switch;
• input/Output module based on the 8255 interface;
• a DC motor driver based on the L293D device; and
• other items including a gripper, video camera and power supply unit.

Using the above items, different hardware systems can be devised. Lecturers can evaluate students’ capabilities by requesting them to implement systems with different levels of complexity.

The training document for the hardware and software modules provides sufficient information for readers to understand the operating principles of both the hardware and software components.

The software tool provides a user-friendly interface and a step-by-step approach to guide students into developing the software for controlling the hardware system.
 

Intended educational value

• The hardware components developed have been utilized in the laboratory sessions for the subject "Computer System Principles" since 2008. In addition, students are encouraged to make use of the modules for their final year projects and several projects have been developed using the processor module.
• The software tool provides a self-learning mechanism for assembly language programming.

Example of application

The microprocessor modules developed for this project are very powerful and easy to use. While the devices are being used currently for just one subject "Computer System Principles",advanced features of the device can also help student learning in other subjects, including control theory and digital signal processing. Therefore, based on the microprocessor modules, an experimental setup in other subjects will be developed in the future.

A robot was developed using a microprocessor module for participating in a competition.
 

Evaluation/Comments

• The hardware modules in the project are much better than the previous experimental setup. The new experiments now include the speed control of a motor, and the application of an infra-red sensor.
• As the new setup is module-based, experiments with different degrees of complexity can be designed by combining modules in order to assess students' learning outcomes. This enables teachers to devise proper experiments to assess students according to the criteria prescribed in the subject syllabus and hence achieve the project’s second objective - to establish a criterion-referenced (CRA) mechanism for students' laboratory performance.
• The software system is very user-friendly and can also serve as a self-learning tool. In addition, using the software, lecturers can very easily develop prototype systems to elaborate on particular topics.
• A survey was conducted to collect students’ comments on the software tool and most over 50% of them agreed that the system helped them to develop the assembly program.

Note: For access to this item, lease contact Dr. Yu Fai Fung (eeyffung@inet.polyu.edu.hk)