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EnglandEngineering

Systems

4 dot points across 4 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

What are the building blocks of an electronic system and what do they do?

Input, process and output components in electronic systems (sensors, resistors, transistors, logic, LEDs, motors, buzzers) and how they are combined.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE Engineering on electronic input, process and output components (switches, LDRs, thermistors, resistors, transistors, logic gates, LEDs, motors and buzzers) and how they form a working system.
9 min answer →

How do we describe an engineered system using inputs, processes and outputs?

The input-process-output model, the role of feedback in a control system, and how systems are drawn as block diagrams.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE Engineering on the input-process-output (IPO) model, open and closed loop systems, the role of feedback, and drawing systems as block diagrams.
9 min answer →

How do mechanisms change the type, direction or size of motion and force?

The four types of motion, mechanisms that change motion (levers, linkages, gears, pulleys, cams, cranks) and how they alter direction, speed and force.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE Engineering on the four types of motion and the mechanisms (levers, linkages, gears, pulleys, cams and cranks) that change the type, direction, speed or force of motion.
9 min answer →

How are microcontrollers programmed to control engineered products?

Programmable components (microcontrollers), how flowcharts represent control programs, and the advantages of programmable control over fixed wiring.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE Engineering on microcontrollers, using flowcharts to plan control programs, the use of inputs and outputs, and why programmable control is flexible compared with fixed-wired circuits.
9 min answer →