Electronics Engineering Technology Standards and Skills

Skills:

1. Examine and describe significant contributions made by electronics engineering professionals to technological advancements across various fields, including consumer electronics, computing and information technology, medical technology, automation, transportation, energy, entertainment, and scientific research.
2. Evaluate and apply Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) regulations related to the electronics industry, focusing on the Massachusetts e-Waste Disposal Ban and hazardous materials management.
3. Analyze Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations affecting the electronics industry, including compliance with the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) for electronic waste (e-waste) management and the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) for hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, and cadmium.

1. Identify and describe passive electronic components, e.g., resistors, capacitors, inductors, and explain their functions within a circuit.
2. Identify and explain active electronic components, e.g., transistors, diodes, integrated circuits, and describe their roles in electronic systems.
3. Differentiate between variable components, e.g., potentiometers and variable capacitors and describe their applications.
4. Identify electronic schematic symbols, including passive, active, and variable, to accurately interpret and apply them in circuit design and analysis.
5. Demonstrate creating a schematic diagram by sketching basic circuits by hand.
6. Apply schematic software to accurately create a basic circuit.
7. Generate a detailed parts list from a schematic diagram, including identifying components, locating vendors for electronic parts, and calculating the total cost of the parts.
8. Demonstrate constructing an electronic circuit prototype by arranging components on a solder-less breadboard, describing the connections, and ensuring compliance with current industry and OSHA standards.
9. Demonstrate assembling an electronic circuit on a printed circuit board by using solder to connect both leaded and surface mount components, and accurately differentiate polarity markings on components to ensure proper installation and functionality.

1. Explain Ohm’s Law, including the relationships between voltage, current, and resistance.
2. Apply Ohm’s Law to solve for voltage, current, and resistance in various circuit problems, e.g., calculating the voltage drop across a resistor in a series circuit; determining the current through a resistor in a parallel circuit; and finding the resistance required to achieve a desired current with a given voltage source.
3. Explain Watt’s Law, including its relationship to power, voltage, and current.
4. Apply Watt’s Law to determine power consumption or dissipation in a circuit, e.g., calculating the power dissipated by a resistor given the voltage across it and the current through it; and determining the total power consumption of a circuit with multiple components given the total current and voltage.
5. Explain Kirchhoff’s Laws and their applications in circuit analysis.
6. Apply Kirchhoff’s Laws to analyze and verify circuit behavior, including applying Kirchhoff’s Current Law (KCL) to determine current at junctions and Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law (KVL) to evaluate voltage around closed loops.
7. Explain fundamental magnetism principles relevant to electronic circuits, including concepts such as magnetic fields, flux, and electromagnetic induction.
8. Apply principles of magnetism to analyze the operation of inductors and transformers in circuits, explaining how magnetic fields are used.
9. Determine the steps involved in applying Norton’s Theorem, including finding the Norton equivalent current source and parallel resistance.
10. Describe the steps involved in applying Thevenin’s Theorem, including finding the Thevenin equivalent voltage source and series resistance.
11. Demonstrate the steps involved in applying the Superposition Theorem, including considering each source independently while turning off other sources (replacing voltage sources with short circuits and current sources with open circuits).
12. Construct a circuit to apply and verify Thevenin’s Theorem.
13. Construct a circuit to apply and verify Norton’s Theorem.

Skills:

1. Explain the basic principles of AC circuits, including differences between AC and DC, and the nature of AC waveforms.
2. Explain AC signal generation and sources, identifying different AC sources and their applications.
3. Analyze AC circuit theory, including reactance, impedance, and phase relationships.
4. Calculate and analyze waveform properties, including RMS, peak, peak-to-peak, average values, frequency, time, and duty cycle of a sine wave.
5. Demonstrate calculating phase shift and power parameters, including apparent power, true power, reactive power, and power factor, to understand their impact on AC circuit behavior.
6. Demonstrate calculating reactance, impedance, and filter circuit parameters.
7. Demonstrate calculating transformer characteristics and resonance frequencies in LC and RLC circuits to understand their roles in AC circuits.
8. Demonstrate measuring waveform properties, including peak, peak-to-peak values, frequency, time, and duty cycle of a sine wave.
9. Demonstrate measuring phase shift and power factor in AC circuits to analyze their effects on circuit behavior.
10. Graphically plot and analyze reactance and impedance versus frequency to understand how they vary with frequency.
11. Employ oscilloscopes to visually analyze waveform characteristics and diagnose issues.
12. Demonstrate troubleshooting common issues in AC circuits, such as resonance problems or impedance mismatches.
13. Utilize simulation software (e.g., LTspice, Multisim, Tinkercad Circuits) to model AC circuits.
14. Simulate AC-circuit behavior to analyze parameters such as impedance, phase shift, and power consumption.
15. Interpret simulation results to validate theoretical calculations and circuit designs.
16. Design and test virtual circuit designs using simulation tools to gain insights into circuit performance.
17. Examine the presence of harmonics in AC circuits and understand their impact on circuit performance and signal distortion.
18. Explain the decomposition of complex waveforms into sine and cosine components, and how this analysis helps in interpreting waveform behavior and circuit performance.

Skills:

1. Define analog electronics, explaining its significance in electronic systems and its applications in various domains like audio amplification, radio frequency communication, and signal conditioning.
2. Analyze semiconductors, detailing the fundamental properties that make them essential in electronic devices, including their electrical conductivity and role in controlling electronic signals.
3. Describe the differences between conductors, insulators, and semiconductors, focusing on their electrical properties and how they affect the flow of electric current.
4. Compare the properties of intrinsic and extrinsic semiconductors and explain how doping alters their properties to enhance conductivity.
5. Explain the importance of manufacturers’ specifications, e.g., voltage, current ratings, power dissipation for selecting and using semiconductor components effectively.
6. Describe the types and functions of discrete semiconductors such as diodes, transistors, and thyristors, detailing their roles in electronic circuits.
7. Explain the concept of biasing in semiconductor devices and its importance in ensuring proper operation.
8. Examine and explain different biasing configurations for transistors, such as common emitter and common collector.
9. Demonstrate thermal management techniques for semiconductors, including the use of heat sinks and thermal compounds, to prevent overheating and ensure reliable operation.
10. Describe various types of transistors, such as Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJTs) and Field Effect Transistors (FETs), including their operating principles and applications.
11. Explain transistor configurations, e.g., common emitter, common collector, including their operating principles and typical applications.
12. Explain the operation of rectifier and regulator diodes and their roles in power conversion and regulation.
13. Describe thyristors, including their types and uses in power control applications.
14. Utilize a digital multimeter to measure the forward voltage drop across a diode.
15. Demonstrate testing BJTs and FETs to verify their operation and identify faults.
16. Explain the four elements of MOSFETs and their roles in transistor operation.
17. Demonstrate conducting tests on thyristors to verify their switching characteristics and operational integrity.
18. Measure and explain current and voltage characteristics for diodes, transistors, and thyristors.
19. Analyze transistor amplifier circuits to understand their operation, gain characteristics, and frequency response.
20. Analyze oscillator circuits to understand their principles of operation, including frequency determination and waveform generation.
21. Evaluate operational amplifier circuits by examining their design, functionality, and performance.
22. Describe the characteristics of operational amplifier integrated circuits (ICs), including input offset voltage, input bias current, slew rate, and open-loop gain.
23. Design operational amplifier circuits for various applications, such as amplifiers, filters, and oscillators.

Skills:

1. Examine the basic principles of digital electronics, including binary systems and digital vs. analog signals.
2. Apply the two’s complement number system for performing arithmetic operations such as addition, subtraction, and multiplication in digital circuits.
3. Demonstrate converting numbers between binary, decimal, and hexadecimal systems, including complex numbers, and verify conversions.
4. Apply digital codes like BCD, ASCII, and Gray code in encoding and decoding data.
5. Translate Boolean algebra expressions into detailed logic diagrams using standard logic gate symbols and verify the logical flow.
6. Generate comprehensive truth tables from Boolean expressions or logic circuits.
7. Demonstrate simplifying digital circuits using Boolean algebra reduction theorems such as De Morgan’s laws and Karnaugh maps.
8. Interpret timing waveforms for latches and flip-flops, focusing on setup and hold times, propagation delays, and clocking behavior.
9. Examine waveforms from counter circuits, analyzing frequency, timing characteristics, and performance.
10. Explain the characteristics of high, low, and tri-state signals and their implications for circuit design and signal integrity.
11. Identify and describe TTL gates from the 7400 series, including their input/output characteristics like voltage levels and current drive.
12. Identify pin numbers and manufacturer markings on digital ICs to ensure correct integration into circuits.
13. Compare TTL (Transistor-Transistor Logic) and CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) logic families in terms of speed, power consumption, noise margins, and interfacing requirements.
14. Apply parity checking methods for error detection, including calculating parity bits for even and odd parity schemes.
15. Explain the universal properties of NAND and NOR gates, including their ability to function as any other basic logic gate (AND, OR, NOT).
16. Illustrate and interpret alternate schematic forms of basic logic gates, including different representations of AND, OR, and NOT gates in various circuit designs.
17. Identify and describe various combinational logic circuits, e.g., multiplexers, decoders, and sequential logic circuits, e.g., counters, shift registers.
18. Apply reduction theorems for circuit simplification, including Karnaugh maps and Boolean algebra techniques.
19. Identify and describe the basic architecture and components of a microprocessor or microcontroller.
20. Explain the operation and design of digital oscillator circuits, focusing on frequency generation and stability.
21. Explain the operation of circuits that perform analog-to-digital (A/D) and digital-to-analog (D/A) conversion.
22. Demonstrate how to design with, and use, integrated circuits, including considerations for selecting ICs for specific applications.
23. Analyze and interpret timing diagrams to understand their impact on circuit operation and performance.
24. Identify and address issues related to noise and signal degradation and apply methods to improve signal quality.
25. Define and describe programmable logic devices (PLDs), including types and their use in implementing complex logic functions.
26. Explain line driver characteristics and their role in driving signals over long distances and interfacing components.
27. Execute wiring and testing combinational logic circuits like adders and multiplexers and explain their operation and functionality.
28. Apply wire and test flip-flops, e.g., D, JK, T, and validate their truth tables and their behavior in sequential circuits.
29. Employ wiring and testing latches, e.g., SR, D, and verify their operation and truth tables.
30. Construct and analyze waveforms for counter circuits, analyzing their timing and counting sequence.
31. Demonstrate building and simulating encoder and decoder circuits, explaining their role in converting data between different formats.
32. Demonstrate building and simulating shift registers, with an explanation of their operation in serial and parallel data handling.
33. Demonstrate constructing and simulating comparators, explaining their function in comparing binary numbers.
34. Design, build, and simulate adder circuits, explaining their role in binary addition and handling carry bits.
35. Demonstrate constructing and simulating multiplexer ICs, explaining their operation as data selectors in digital systems.
36. Demonstrate use of diagnostic tools and techniques, such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, and logic probes, to test and analyze digital circuits, identifying and resolving issues related to signal integrity, timing, and component functionality.
37. Conduct visual inspections, assess component placement, verify connections, and consult circuit diagrams and datasheets to troubleshoot and correct faults in digital electronic systems. 

Skills:

1. Apply iterative steps of the engineering design process to electronics projects, focusing on advanced problem-solving techniques.
2. Collaborate using structured brainstorming and modern methodologies to develop innovative solutions.
3. Utilize engineering notations and prefixes effectively in documentation.
4. Manage and maintain detailed technical design reports and comprehensive engineering logs/journals.
5. Select and apply various media formats for effective communication of designs and processes.
6. Identify and operate electric and stepper motors and design and test advanced motor control circuits.
7. Implement and integrate various types of motors in modern automation systems.
8. Apply sensors and control algorithms to design, build, and operate autonomous robots.
9. Demonstrate writing and debugging a control program.
10. Simulate and analyze circuits using advanced software tools.
11. Design and fabricate PCBs with modern software and processes.
12. Describe and use measurement tools and techniques for accurate diagnostics and testing, including an oscilloscope and a function generator.
13. Identify and use a multimeter to select DC or AC functions and ranges for measuring circuit values.
14. Demonstrate conducting advanced electronic measurements and waveform analysis.
15. Apply advanced soldering, assembly, and manufacturing techniques for electronic devices.
16. Describe the major components of a computer and their functions.
17. Explain the function and operation of an Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) in a computer system, including its role in performing arithmetic and logical operations, and its impact on overall computational performance.
18. Describe the characteristics, functions, and applications of various memory types, including ROM, RAM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, and EAPROM, and explain their roles in data storage and retrieval within computer systems.
19. Explain data buses and associated bandwidth, computer languages, and peripheral devices.
20. Identify types and explain uses of interface devices, e.g., chips and cards. 

1. Explain the principles of digital modulation techniques, including Amplitude Modulation (AM), Frequency Modulation (FM), and Phase Modulation (PM), and their application in communication systems.
2. Describe common communication protocols and standards, such as TCP/IP, HTTP, and FTP, and their role in enabling effective data exchange across networks.
3. Explain digital signal processing (DSP) concepts, including basic filtering and error detection methods, and their importance in improving signal quality.
4. Define and apply fundamental data compression techniques, including lossless and lossy methods, to manage data storage and transmission efficiently.
5. Describe and explain basic network architectures and topologies, such as Local Area Networks (LANs) and Wide Area Networks (WANs), and their functions in digital communication systems.
6. Identify and explain the operation of common electronics display devices, including LCDs and LEDs, and describe their advantages and disadvantages.
7. Identify and explain why, in a common anode, seven-segment LED display, an individual LED will light when a negative voltage is applied to the segment’s anode pin.
8. Describe the function and operation of LED remote hand units and opto-isolators, including their typical applications in circuits.
9. Identify uses of light-activated controls and explain how photo devices are incorporated into electronic systems.
10. Explain the major components and construction of home entertainment products, including microphones and speakers, and outline necessary precautions.
11. Compare high-quality and distorted sound and describe the electronic and acoustical reasons for each.
12. Explain signal conflicts and symptoms and describe methods for isolating troubles between discrete equipment units.
13. Describe the major types of two-way radio communications, including avionics, land mobile, and maritime systems, and explain their applications.
14. Examine the concept of data security in digital communication, including fundamental encryption and authentication methods to protect information.
15. Demonstrate use of simulation tools to model basic digital communication systems and understand their functionality.

Skills:

1. Analyze the structures and functions of complex IC architectures, including System on Chips (SoCs), Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), and Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) to make informed decisions when designing or selecting components for specific applications.
2. Evaluate factors influencing IC design, such as power consumption, thermal management, speed, and integration density.
3. Apply performance metrics like propagation delay, setup and hold times, and power dissipation.
4. Utilize Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools for creating and simulating IC designs, including layout, schematic capture, and verification.
5. Develop custom IC designs based on specific requirements, including logic gates, amplifiers, and other functional blocks.
6. Apply industry-standard guidelines for IC design, including design rules and best practices for signal integrity and noise reduction.
7. Demonstrate testing on ICs using tools like oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and signal generators to verify functionality and performance.
8. Demonstrate diagnosing and resolving common faults in ICs, such as stuck-at faults, timing issues, and signal integrity problems.
9. Identify and address various failure modes in ICs, including electrical overstress, thermal failure, and manufacturing defects.
10. Demonstrate research skills to identify recent advancements in IC technology, such as advancements in nanoelectronics, 3D ICs, and advanced packaging techniques.
11. Analyze and evaluate potential future developments in ICs, including quantum computing, neuromorphic ICs, and other innovative technologies.
12. Assess how advancements in IC technology are influencing various fields, including telecommunications, computing, and consumer electronics.

Skills:

1. Evaluate the essential features and applications of embedded systems across various industries, analyzing their impact and relevance.
2. Identify and explain the basic architecture of microcontrollers and microprocessors used in embedded systems.
3. Demonstrate creating and refining simple programs for microcontrollers, utilizing languages such as C/C++ or Python to solve programming challenges.
4. Apply advanced programming skills to design, write, and debug complex programs for microcontrollers, ensuring optimal performance and functionality.
5. Design and construct basic embedded systems using development boards, e.g., Arduino or Raspberry Pi, and standard hardware components like sensors, actuators, and displays.
6. Describe the fundamental concepts of Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS), including task scheduling, priority management, and real-time constraints, and explain their importance in embedded system applications.
7. Demonstrate connecting embedded systems to external devices and use standard communication protocols like UART, SPI, or I2C.
8. Demonstrate testing and troubleshooting of embedded systems, ensuring their integration and functionality in practical applications.
9. Analyze and evaluate emerging trends in digital communication technologies, such as IoT, 5G, and advanced data analytics, and discuss their potential impact on the field.