Assignment # 1 (chapter 1)

PICENG433 Digital Process Control

Q1. A 12-bit A/D converter has full-scale range of 5 V. What is the resolution of this A/D in
volts? Estimate its quantization error in volts.

Q2. A 16-bit A/D converter has a full-scale range of 10 V. What is the resolution of this A/D in
volts? If this A/D were used to measure temperature using a sensor having a sensitivity of 0.1
mV/.C, what is the resolution in °C?

Q3. A voltage signal ranges from -1.2 to 1.4 volts. A digital data acquisition system is to be
chosen – four choices are available:
(a) 12-bit A/D range = -10 to 10 V
(b) 8-bit A/D range = -2 to 2 V
(c) 10-bit A/D range = -5 to 5 V
(d) 14-bit A/D range = -1 to 1 V
Determine which system is the best choice for this application, assuming that cost is irrelevant
(all four are available in the lab). Explain your choice

Q4. Draw a three levels typical DCS system and discuss the function of each level? Explain the
difference between DCS and DDC. Explain the difference between SCADA system and DCS
system.

Q5. What is fieldbus and what advantages does it offer when used in DCS system? Use neat
diagram to explain.

How many times did you watch the videos on DCS, DDC, and SCADA systems?
Q4 and Q5: see lecture notes, Appendix B (text book) and videos provided.