Embedded web server for remote laboratory access for undergraduate students studying electronic engineering

This paper describes an approach for the development of an embedded web server that facilitates a remote access for a laboratory experiment for distance learning purposes. The experiment involves measurement of a volt-ampere characteristic of a semiconductor diode by setting the voltages applied to it remotely over the Internet. The learner observes two autoranging multimeters over a live video feed in order to record the applied voltages and corresponding currents. The system architecture developed for this project allowed use of low-cost components and rapid development. The total cost of consumables was below £200 except for the internet protocol (IP) camera.