PEC EPE Computer & Allied study plan

Write and dry-run short C programs that use pointers, arrays, and structs, then trace each variable's value by hand to confirm memory behaviour.

Convert between binary, octal, hexadecimal, and two's complement representations for signed integers without a calculator.

Map the layers of a computer system (CPU, memory hierarchy, I/O, OS services) and explain in one paragraph how a compiled program moves from source to execution.

Solve 20 mixed-format practice items on data types, operator precedence, and control flow, logging every wrong answer with the reason it was wrong.

Implement classic algorithms (linear and binary search, bubble and insertion sort, simple recursion) from memory and state the time complexity of each.

Simplify Boolean expressions using Karnaugh maps for 3- and 4-variable functions and verify each result with a truth table.

Design combinational circuits (adders, multiplexers, decoders) from a written specification and derive their truth tables.

Explain the fetch-decode-execute cycle and identify the role of the program counter, instruction register, and stack pointer.

Analyse sequential logic: derive next-state tables and state diagrams for SR, JK, D, and T flip-flops and simple counters.

Distinguish the architecture and instruction features of an 8-bit microprocessor, including addressing modes and interrupt handling.

Compute the output of short assembly-style instruction sequences given initial register values.

Compare memory-mapped versus isolated I/O and describe how a peripheral interrupt is serviced.

Apply Ohm's, Kirchhoff's, and power laws to series, parallel, and combined DC networks, showing every step.

Solve AC single-phase circuits using phasors: compute impedance, current, power factor, and real versus reactive power.

Analyse balanced three-phase star and delta loads and convert between line and phase quantities.

Explain the operating principle and equivalent circuit of a transformer and compute turns ratio, voltage regulation, and efficiency.

Describe the construction and torque production of DC machines and induction motors, and interpret their torque-speed characteristics.

Build the per-unit model of a short transmission line and compute voltage drop and line losses.

Formulate the power flow problem for a small network and explain the roles of the slack, PV, and PQ buses.

Compute fault current for a simple three-phase short circuit using per-unit impedance.

Select and set overcurrent relays for a radial feeder, explaining time-current coordination between two stages.

Explain the operating principles of differential, distance, and directional protection and the zone each protects.

Describe the function of instrument transformers, circuit breakers, and surge arresters in a substation.

Analyse symmetrical components for an unbalanced fault and compute sequence quantities for a given set of phase currents.

Derive closed-loop transfer functions and compute steady-state error, damping ratio, and settling time for first- and second-order systems.

Apply Routh-Hurwitz and root-locus rules to determine stability and sketch approximate loci.

Explain sensor characteristics (sensitivity, resolution, linearity) and the operation of bridge circuits and signal conditioning amplifiers.

Compute the output of a linear system given its impulse response, and apply the sampling theorem to avoid aliasing.

Apply a professional code of ethics to three short scenarios involving conflict of interest, public safety, and data integrity, citing the relevant obligation.

Review the highest-weight domains by reworking previously missed items and re-deriving key formulas from memory.

Complete two full-length timed mock exams under exam conditions and record section-wise scores.

Build a personal formula sheet covering all seven domains and confirm each entry against a worked example.