Lecture Notes: Microcontroller Exams - Taxi Calculator Specification

Introduction

• Continuation of video series on microcontroller exams.
• Focus on building a specification from a client brief.
• Emphasis on interpreting client brief into operational requirements.

Building a Specification

• Prepare a technical specification for a user-friendly system.
• Handle unexpected events.
• Aim for at least 8 detailed bullet points in the specification.

Specification Details

• Points should have detail for higher marks.
• Include comments on unexpected events for top marks.
• Review the client brief thoroughly to convert instructions into a specification.

Key Steps:

1. Analyze the Client Brief:

   • Look for numerical data and specific requirements in the brief.
   • Identify points that don't need inclusion (superfluous information).

2. Writing Specification Points:

   • Aim for more than 8 detailed points.
   • Basic points include tracking fare costs, charge rates, pausing calculator, adding discounts.
   • Detailed specifications should include context and reasoning.
   • Example: Specify use of surcharges/discounts for extenuating circumstances.

3. Address Unexpected Events:

   • Prepare for user errors and power cuts.
   • Importance of these events throughout the exam.

Importance of Detail

• Detailed points demonstrate understanding of the brief.
• Context and reasoning in points help maximize marks.

Tips for Writing

• Read specification points to ensure clarity.
• Use detailed sentences rather than brief points.

Conclusion

• Specification writing is a key task based on the client brief.
• Requires at least eight detailed points.
• Detailed and contextual specification points are crucial.
• Upcoming video will focus on the test plan and further exam activities.

Next Steps

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