PC/CP300: Electronics Laboratory II

Lab Demonstrations

A formal demonstration of a circuit or piece of software shows that the system, hardware or software, meets functional specifications.

Length
For this course, the lab demonstrations will be 5 minutes or less in length. Lab groups should be organized to do the demonstration before they invite the lab supervisor to view the demonstration.

Clarity of Objective

Clearly state what is to be demonstrated and how that will be done.

Functional Specifications

• Describe exactly what the circuit or system is supposed to do.
• Describe all inputs and outputs and specify, when appropriate,
  • the range of operation (input voltages, output voltages, data values, etc.)
  • the mode of operation (interrupts, polled, free-running, etc.)
• For multifunction systems, describe each specific function as it is demonstrated.

System Description

• Explain how the system works internally.
• State any assumptions and potential shortcomings in the system design.
• Point out any unusual aspects of the design.
• Be prepared to explain terminology and parameter calculations if requested by the lab supervisor.

Demonstration Considerations

• How can you make it obvious that you have addressed the functional specifications? (e.g. display input waveform on an oscilloscope to show voltage range involved, make meaningful test messages "the door is OPEN", incorporate visual output information so result is unambiguous)
  
• How can you minimize the amount of different things you must do to observe the results? (e.g. have the system pre-wired specifically in a demonstration mode, require simple commands, etc.)
  
• Is it easier to test various conditions with one single comprehensive test, or is it easier to create a "suite" of tests?