Title: Devices and Circuits II
Credits: 5 (4 lecture; 1 lab)
Coordinator: Chris Rudell, Associate Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering
Goals: To teach the physics, characteristics, applications, analysis, and design of circuits using field-effect transistors with an emphasis on small-signal behavior and analog circuits. To understand and apply the principles of device modeling to circuit analysis and design. To gain hands-on experience with laboratory instrumentation and analog circuit troubleshooting, in addition to being introduced to industry-standard Computer Aided Design (CAD) circuit simulation software such as Spectre, SpectreRF and Pspice.
Learning Objectives: At the end of this course, students will be able to:
Textbook:
R. C. Jaeger and T. N. Blalock, Microelectronic Circuit Design, 5th Ed., New York: McGraw-Hill, 2015.
Prerequisites by Topic:
Topics:
Course Structure: Class meets four days per week for three 50 minute lectures, one 50 minute problem session, plus one three-hour laboratory session each week. There is weekly homework due that includes circuit simulation computer (Cadence-based Spectre Simulations) projects. There are five laboratory experiments including an extensive design project with a formal written report. There will be two midterms and one final in class examination.
Computer Resources: Cadence-based Spectre simulation using the linux lab in Sieg Hall for circuit simulation. MathCad or MATLAB for circuit analysis.
Laboratory Projects:
Laboratory Structure: The course meets for 3 hours per week to conduct laboratory experiments from a lab manual which accompanies the class. The first labs consist of creating a breadboard circuit, then performing a number of measurement tasks using oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, DC and AC signal sources. Measurements are written up in a report, then turned into for grading. The labs are conducted in EEB 137 where a parts room provides components as needed for the experiments. The laboratory portion of the course concludes with a larger multi-week project.
Grading: Weights given; each midterm examination (10%), final examination (20%), design project and laboratory reports (30%), homework and tutorials (20%).
ABET Student Outcome Coverage: This course addresses the following outcomes:
H = high relevance, M = medium relevance, L = low relevance to course.
(1) An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics (H) The vast majority of the lectures deal with the application of circuit theory, device modeling and electronic circuit analysis. Mathematical formulations are commonplace throughout the course. In addition, problem formulation and solving skills are required to define and resolve device, circuit and simulation problems.
(2) An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors (M) Some laboratory projects could lead to engineering-based designs that help promote public health, safety, welfare, cultural and social factors, in a very generic sense. The circuits analysis and design techniques used in this class could lead to larger electronic systems which do impact all of the aforementioned areas.
(3) An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences (M) Design project reports are required to be styled and formatted to present the instructor or TA. Emphasis is placed upon clear descriptions of circuit and device operation, with illustrative schematic diagrams.
(5) An ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives (M) The lab and project design problems are addressed by teams of 2-3 students who must work together to complete breadboard circuit projects which include measurements of commonly accepted figures of merit.
(6) An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions (M) The course involves direct experience with the design of semiconductor integrated circuits and experimentation with simulation software. Laboratory experiments require students to measure and acquire data as well as interpret the results in their lab reports.
(7) An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies (M) The course focuses on an intermediate-level of circuit analysis and design of electronic circuits. Knowledge acquired in this course is necessary for higher-level advanced circuit classes such as EE-433, EE-473 and EE-436.
Prepared By: J. Christophe Rudell
Last Revised: 04/21/2019