Module manager: Dr Zoran Ikonic
Email: z.ikonic@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
ELEC2540 - Control Systems
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module gives students an understanding of the behaviour of linear systems, and how their output is related to their input. Students will develop an understanding of the concepts of control systems, methods of their analysis and design in order to achieve the required response properties and stability.
This module has the following objectives:
- To gain an understanding of the theory and practice of control systems
- To learn how to analyse linear systems using Laplace transforms and transfer functions, the transient response of feedback systems, and stability criteria.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes:
1. Apply knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex control systems problems. Some of the knowledge will be at the forefront of control systems.
2. Analyse complex control systems problems to reach substantiated conclusions using first principles of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles.
3. Select and apply appropriate computational and analytical techniques to model complex control systems problems, recognising the limitations of the techniques employed.
4. Apply an integrated or systems approach to the solution of complex control systems problems.
5. Use a risk management process to identify, evaluate and mitigate risks (the effects of uncertainty) associated with a particular project or activity.
6. Use practical laboratory and workshop skills to investigate complex control systems problems.
7. Select and apply appropriate materials, equipment, engineering technologies and processes, recognising their limitations.
Skils Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills:
a) Application of science, mathematics and/or engineering principles
b) Problem analysis
c) Application of computational and analytical techniques
d) Integrated systems approach
e) Risk management
f) Practical and workshop skills
g) Technical awareness of engineering materials, equipment, technologies, and processes
• Linear Systems: Laplace transforms and derivation of transfer functions
• Standard form of a first-order system
• Cascaded and summed transfer functions
• Characteristic equation and significance of poles
• Standard form of second-order system and its step response
• Introduction to Feedback: Effects of feedback
• Proportional, integral and differential control
• System Classification: Relationship between unity and non-unity feedback systems
• System type (class) and steady-state errors
• Polar Frequency Response: Polar form of complex quantities
• Frequency-response from transfer function
• Cascaded terms
• Bode plots
• Stability: Concept of stability via roots of characteristic equation, from Bode plots, from Nyquist's criterion, and from Routh-Hurwitz method
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Examples Class | 14 | 1 | 14 |
| Lecture | 14 | 2 | 28 |
| Practical | 9 | 2 | 18 |
| Independent online learning hours | 20 | ||
| Private study hours | 120 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 60 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Students studying ELEC modules will receive formative feedback in a variety of ways, including the use of self-test quizzes on Minerva, practice questions/worked examples and (where appropriate) through verbal interaction with teaching staff and/or post-graduate demonstrators.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
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