Computer Hardware Engineering - Course Curriculum
- Basics of Hardware
- Basic Computer Architecture
- Computer Instructions
- Infix Postfix Stack
- Binary Numbers
- Processors
- Memory
- Cache
- Memory Type Selection
- Disk Drives
- NTFS
- CD ROM
- Pipelining
- Instruction Level Parallelism (ILP)
- Monitors
- Printers
- Communication Buses & Bridges
- Processor Specifications
Who is a Hardware Engineer
Computer hardware engineers know all about computer components backward and forward. They design hardware elements and test existing hardware. They dissect and interpret test data and draw appropriate conclusions to understand what to change to get rid of bugs so that all computer and electrical systems under their watch can work like a charm.
Circuit boards and microprocessors will be your best friends on the job. You might work in a research lab or a manufacturing company producing high-tech equipment. You might even land a position at the government if that is what gets you going.
You will throw around terms like embedding, abstraction, and concept development like a pro. And while you do, you will develop chips and other physical pieces and accessories that build up a computer and allows the flawless functioning of intricate software.
What Does a Hardware Engineer Do
Computer hardware engineers research, design, develop, and test computer systems and components such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices, networks, and routers. These engineers discover new directions in computer hardware, which generate rapid advances in computer technology.
How To Become a Hardware Engineer
Most computer hardware engineers need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited computer engineering program.
Education
Most entry-level computer hardware engineers have a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, although a degree in electrical engineering or computer science also is generally acceptable. A computer engineering major is similar to a major in electrical engineering but with a heavy emphasis on computer science.
Many engineering programs are accredited by ABET (formerly the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology). Employers may prefer students from an accredited program. To prepare for a major in computer or electrical engineering, students should have a solid background in math and science.
Because hardware engineers commonly work with computer software systems, a familiarity with computer programming usually is expected. This background may be obtained through computer science courses.
Some large firms or specialized jobs may require a master’s degree in computer engineering. Some experienced engineers obtain a master’s degree in business administration (MBA). All engineers must continue their learning over the course of their careers in order to keep up with rapid advances in technology.
Other Experience
Some students participate in internships while in school so that they can gain practical experience.
Advancement
Some computer hardware engineers can advance to become computer and information systems managers.
Important Qualities
Analytical skills: Computer hardware engineers use computer programming tools to analyze the digital circuits in hardware to determine the best design.
Creativity: Computer hardware engineers design new types of information technology devices.
Critical-thinking skills: These engineers use logic and reasoning to clarify goals, examine assumptions, and identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions to problems.
Problem-solving skills: Computer hardware engineers identify complex problems in computer hardware, develop and evaluate possible solutions, and figure out the best way to implement them.
Speaking skills: Engineers often work on teams and must be able to communicate with other types of engineers as well as with nontechnical team members.
Course Outcomes
- Introduction to Computer Hardware and Networking
- Understanding the Architecture of Computers
- Motherboard Technologies
- Processor Technologies
- Memory Technologies
- Storage Technologies
- Switch Mode Power Supply (SMPS)
- Understanding BIOS and Performing a Power-On-Self-Test
- Optical Storage Technologies
- Start-Up Menu
