Electrical Circuits

Unit code: NEE2101 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
NEF1205 - Engineering Fundamentals
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

This unit develops foundational knowledge of electrical circuit theory and analysis. Students will study DC and AC circuits using fundamental laws and network theorems and examine transient and steady-state responses under different loading conditions. Emphasis is placed on modelling, measurement, and validation through laboratory experiments, linking theoretical understanding with real-world applications, safety, and professional practice.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Analyse and interpret the transient and steady-state behaviour of RC and RL circuits using fundamental electrical principles;
  2. Apply nodal voltage, superposition, Thevenin’s, and Norton’s methods to model and solve AC circuit problems;
  3. Explain and differentiate the concepts of frequency, impedance, and admittance, and evaluate their influence on AC circuit performance; and
  4. Analyse and evaluate both independently and collaboratively the behaviour and power characteristics of balanced three-phase AC systems.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Laboratory Work
|
Grade: 20%
Practical Lab Assessment (Individual)(1000 words)
Assessment type: Report
|
Grade: 30%
Lab Report (Group) (2000 words)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 50%
Test (individual) (90 minutes)

Laboratory Work: This secure assessment ensures accountability by requiring students to perform hands on data collection and systems analysis tasks under supervision. Real-time observation and process-focused questioning verify understanding and application of analytical skills.

Report: Structured group lab report documenting design, implementation, and validation processes in detail. Progressive milestone checks, documented collaboration and individual contributions ensure accountability and support verification of each student’s engagement. Explicit evaluation of individual contributions further supports the secure assessment and assurance of each student’s achievement of learning outcomes.

Test: This secure invigilated in class assessment has an unpredictable problem-solving scenario format that tests understanding, requires explanation of reasoning and process, and involves applying knowledge to new contexts.

Required reading

Fundamentals of Electric Circuits.
Alexander, C.K. and M.N.O. Sadiku. (2020).| McGraw-Hill.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Electrical and Electronic Engineering)
NHEE | Bachelor honours degree | Duration: 4 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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