Unit A56: Electrical and Electronic Principles in Engineering

Level: 3 – EEP*

Unit introduction

The modern world relies on electrical and electronic devices – from mobile telephones to jet aeroplanes, these devices have had an enormous impact on the way we live today. Without early engineers such as Faraday and Lenz, who studied the then new concept of electricity, many of the inventions we now take for granted would not have been developed. The unit starts by developing and extending learners’ understanding of fundamental electrical and electronic principles through analysis of simple direct current (DC) circuits. Learners are then taken through the various properties and parameters associated with capacitance and inductance, before finally considering the application of single-phase alternating current (AC) theory. The unit will encourage learners to take an investigative approach through practical construction, measurement and testing of circuits and, where applicable, the use of computer-based circuit analysis and simulation. For learners wishing to follow an electrical/electronic programme, this unit is an essential building block that will provide the underpinning knowledge required for further study of electrical and electronic applications. Note that the use of ‘e.g.’ in the content is to give an indication and illustration of the breadth and depth of the area or topic. As such, not all content that follows an ‘e.g.’ needs to be taught or assessed.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this unit a learner should:

1 Be able to use circuit theory to determine voltage, current and resistance in direct current (DC) circuits

2 Be able to apply the concepts of capacitance in DC circuits

3 Know the principles and properties of magnetism

4 Be able to use single-phase alternating current (AC) theory

(*Mandatory on the 12 unit BTEC EE Engineering Diploma pathway. Requires access to some electronic components and instruments – see Support pages on kits & equipment)