Electronics AS/A2 level

Electronics, A2-level
About the Course
The course is taught through a combination of theory and practical work, with particular emphasis on developing understanding through hands-on practical experience.
AS Level
Unit 1: Introductory Electronics (35%)
A thorough grounding in the basic theory of electrical work and an introduction to electronic systems. Areas you will cover include logic gates, current, voltage power and resistance, diodes, transistors and operational amplifiers.
Unit 2: Further Electronics (35%)
Build significantly on your electronics work from the first unit and develop a
real competence within the areas covered, which include sequential logic
systems, timer circuits, RC networks, counter subsystems, capacitors,
operational amplifiers, and power amplifiers.
Unit 3: Practical System Development(30%)
You will conceive, design and build a major project based on work covered in
the first two units. This will be a full process resulting in a fully-working
product and comprehensive written report.
A2 Level
Unit 4: Programmable Control Systems (35%)
Further develop your knowledge from the AS course and break into areas
essentially related to the understanding and controlling of electronic systems.
These include microprocessor control systems, programming, input/output
subsystems and their interfacing, and robotic systems.
Unit 5: Communication Systems (35%)
Considers the most efficient manner in which electronic signals may be
transmitted and received. Areas you will study include audio systems, AM/FM
radio receiver principles, filters, digital communications, mobile
communications and optoelectronics.
Unit 6: Practical Systems Synthesis (30%)
You will conceive, design and build your major project based mainly on A2
module work. This is a full process and requires adeptness appropriate for A2
Level.
Course Aims
The course aims to give you both knowledge and enthusiasm for electronics. This can be for enjoyment, a link to other interests (eg music, computing) or for future work or educational interests.
What are the entry requirements?
How is the course assessed?
In the AS year there are two exams covering
Units 1 and 2, worth a total of 70%. The remaining 30% is covered by the main project. In the A2 year Units 4 and 5 are also examined and worth a total of 70%. The final coursework project is worth 30%.
Fees
No Course Fees for Under 19's. Over 19's must pay, or claim Level 2 or Level 3 Entitlement for FREE courses .
What next?
This course is a useful entry qualification to higher education for various technical subjects, including engineering and physics. It will also prove very useful for anyone considering a career in electronics.