Question 1

What is NCEA AS 91078 about?

Accepted Answer

This standard asks you to build and set up a basic electronic interface—combining hardware components (like resistors, sensors, LEDs) with software code—so that different parts work together to do a specific job. You need to choose the right components, write working code, and test everything to make sure it actually does what it's supposed to do.

Question 2

What do students need to do for AS 91078?

Accepted Answer

1. Choose the right electronic components (like resistors and sensors) by testing them or using datasheets to work out their correct values 2. Write functional interface software code from simple program structures that you're given 3. Test and debug your hardware and software model to find and fix problems 4. Measure and report voltage or current levels at different points using a multimeter 5. Adjust both hardware parameters (component values, arrangements) and software parameters until your system meets the specifications

Question 3

What's the difference between Achieved, Merit, and Excellence for AS 91078?

Accepted Answer

Achieved: You choose suitable components through practical testing, write basic code that works, and test your interface to check it meets the specification. Merit: You choose components skilfully with good reasoning, write clearly annotated and well-organised code that's easy to read, and thoroughly debug your interface. Excellence: You use datasheets or calculations to precisely select the best components, write well-structured code with clear annotations, and efficiently implement an interface that cleanly meets all specifications.

Question 4

What mistakes do students typically make in AS 91078?

Accepted Answer

1. Not documenting or annotating code clearly enough so someone else cannot easily understand what it does or how it works 2. Choosing component values by guesswork or trial-and-error instead of using datasheets, calculations, or systematic testing methods 3. Failing to properly test and debug the interface before submitting, leaving errors in the hardware setup or software logic

Electronic interfacing

Your assessment resources

Videos & study resources

More in this subject

Other Technology - Digital Technologies and Hangarau Matihiko standards · Level 1 · Year 11

Next year — Technology - Digital Technologies and Hangarau Matihiko Level 2 · Year 12

Related standards