Unit 6 Microcontrollers Exam Tutorial

Overview

• Focus on Activity 4: Programming
• Develop a user-friendly system:
  • Well-organized, structured, and formatted code
  • Annotating the code
  • Assembly and integration of any required hardware
  • Ensuring system functionality and handling unexpected events
• Submission includes:
  • Electronic task booklet
  • Video from Activity 6

Activity 4: Key Steps

Code Development

1. Program Setup
   • Begin by initiating the LCD screen and buttons.
   • Use a while 1 loop for continuous running of the program.
   • Clear the screen to ensure clarity.
   • Set initial variables and states (e.g., fare starting at £1.50).
2. Program Execution
   • Button Press Mechanism:
     • Program waits for button press (e.g., button zero to start journey).
     • Implement repeated checks to ensure responsive button inputs (checking 10 times per second).
   • Time and Fare Calculation
     • Add 0.1 seconds to timer per loop; add 20p to fare every 20 seconds.
     • Use simple arithmetic operations to calculate and display fare.
3. Loop Control and Fare Adjustments
   • Introduce surcharges or discounts based on additional button presses.
   • Allow buttons to add or subtract 50p to/from the fare.

Code Annotation

• Importance of annotating code for examiner understanding.
• Steps to annotate:
  • Use screenshot tools (e.g., Snipping Tool) to capture sections of code.
  • Insert screenshots in PowerPoint or similar tools to add annotations.
  • Explain each function and section, e.g., initialization and variable setups.

Final Documentation

• Insert annotated code sections into the electronic task booklet.
• Include:
  • Screenshots of code with annotations
  • Descriptions of hardware setup
  • Discussion of how code handles unexpected events

Tips for High Marks

• Break the code into logical sections for easier annotation and explanation.
• Provide detailed explanations to demonstrate understanding.
• Consider potential unexpected events and how your code addresses them.
• Include illustrations and annotations of hardware and simulated circuits.

Conclusion

• Annotations are crucial for high marks; code alone is not enough.
• Aim for comprehensive documentation to maximize scores.
• Good luck with your exams!