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Project Planning and Development

Functional Specifications:
    The functional purpose of this product is to provide a visual representation of what occurs in DRAM memory using LEDs.  The user must be able to write to and read from the memory in a way that can be displayed by a 2 dimensional array of LEDs.  There must also exist a visual demonstration of charge leakage and a refresh routine to fix the problem.  Finally, there must be a mode that demonstrates memory defects and presents a failure analysis solution to circumvent the defects.  The user must be able to select and execute different modes from a user interface, which they can use with the aid of an operation manual.

Design Metrics:
    The first metric to measure the success of our system is how much the system ends up costing to make.  If we exceed the allocated budget during the course of fabrication there will be insufficient funds to make the required amount of units.  The amount of units produced is the second metric of success, to have this project be a success we must deliver the requested amount of product.  The next design metrics are those of size and weight.  In order for the product to be easily portable, it must not be too large in either dimensions or mass.  The next design metric is the amount of power consumed by the device.  If they use too much power the device will quickly run down its battery and need a replacement.  Related to the power consumed is the metric of heat produced.  If too much heat is produced, physical damage to the electronics can occur.  The final metric is durability.  The more durable the system is the longer it should last and the more successful a product it will be.  

Risk Analysis

1 .LEDs

If the LEDs overheat, do not respond to the FPGA, or emit wrong signal,  certain memory cells will not be available leading to an inaccurate  model of DRAM if not addressed.

2. Microntroller Control

If the microcontroller controls fail, the LED array will not work and the system will be completely inoperable.

3. PC GUI

If the PC GUI is not implemented, or is implemented incorrectly, the LED array will not  be operable from the computer and a major set of requirements will not have been met

4. Manual Interface

If the manual control system fails, the system must be run from the computer interface and a set of requirements will not have been met.

5. Power Supply
If the power supply to the system fails, or is not sufficient to meet the needs of the project, the system will not be able to operate at all.


Project Schedule


Project Parts List