Electronics Technology Courses Descriptions

Prerequisite: ET103

This course will provide the student with knowledge of electronic devices, such as those that are used in computer peripherals, analysis circuits, circuit models used to solve electrical problems, and the application of circuit techniques to semiconductor devices. The laboratory will emphasize the construction, analysis and troubleshooting of these circuits. Computer-assisted projects are integrated into the laboratory and lecture topics.

Co-requisite: ET100

This is an introductory course in Renewable Energy Technologies and will cover the introduction of energy system, analysis of international energy crisis, current fossil fuel consumption rate and reserves (and its future), renewable energy types, the economical factors and limitations and the application design approaches of a renewable energy system. Upon completion of the course, students will be able to apply relevant knowledge of the renewable energy technology to analyze available alternative sources of energy while incorporating social and environmental factors. The course is not intended to include detailed design technology of operational modules and units, rather it teaches students how to design and analyze the feasibility of a Renewable energy application for a given environment utilizing available components and modules.

Prerequisite: ET103

This course will provide the student with knowledge of electronic instrumentation used in testing and troubleshooting of electronic circuits. Applications will be chosen from electronic control, sensing, communication and computer circuits. Computer-assisted projects are integrated into the laboratory and lecture topics.

This course will provide an understanding of digital electronic theory, binary systems, Boolean Algebra, and the application of these concepts to analyzing the functions of digital electronic computers. The student will learn how a computer logic statement is converted into actual circuits. Included is an introduction to the concepts necessary for the implementation of digital systems using such devices as read-only memories and programmable logic arrays. The laboratory will introduce experiments using logic trainers and prototype boards. Computer-assisted projects are integrated into the laboratory and lecture topics.

Co-requisite: ET100

This course is designed to introduce and explain the theory and operational principles of Photovoltaics system to students. As well, the course will include the required technical knowledge to expand the toolkit of a qualified technician involved in the installation of solar powered PV systems. Topics taught in this course include the physics behind every single step, conversion of thermal radiation into chemical energy, basic structure of solar cells, solar cell function, limitations on energy conversion in solar cells, concepts for improving the efficiency of solar cells, PV arrays and other components, principles of PV electricity and how to effectively incorporate it into electrical systems.

This course will guide students through the set-up and running of a typical Photovoltaics System. Upon completion of the course, students will possess sufficient knowledge to estimate the requirements of PV systems and the practical installation steps required.

Co-requisite: ET100

This course provides a comprehensive foundation of concepts required to concentrate on the practical aspects and methods of efficient energy management and estimation. It discusses the technologies of energy utilization, load estimation, instrumentation, data analysis and computer-aided control systems. Topics covered in the course include fundamental concepts of energy and the environment, energy management and conservation, energy in the manufacturing environment, energy technologies, instrumentation, measurement and control, economics and finance, cooling and heating load estimation, indoor and outdoor design conditions, conduction heat gain and loss, solar and internal heat gain, infiltration, single-space psychometric analysis and computerized mini-energy audit, and load analysis. Upon completion of this course students should understand the process of how to construct an energy audit and how to monitor and control the financial aspects of energy management.

Prerequisite: ET165

This course is designed to give students a comprehensive background in solar energy theory, applications design and site assessment for a potential solar thermal installation. In particular, it emphasizes two important topics: the maximum utilization of available solar energy and thermal storage, and the sizing of an appropriate auxiliary heating/cooling system in conjunction with good thermal control. Topics include: transient heat transfer and thermal storage, fenestration components, systems and day lighting, dynamic models of heat transfer in solar buildings, the passive response of solar buildings and its use in design, ventilation and indoor air quality, analysis and sizing of small auxiliary heating/cooling systems, control of passive solar buildings and solar energy utilization techniques and systems. Thermal analysis and design of passive solar buildings is an important contribution towards the optimization of buildings as systems that act as natural filters between the indoor and outdoor environments, while maximizing the utilization of solar energy. This is an essential course for any student wishing to further their studies in Renewable Energy Technology.

Prerequisite: ET165

This course is designed to give students a comprehensive background in solar photovoltaic systems, applications design and site assessment for a potential photovoltaic system installation. Growth in photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing worldwide continues to increase. In parallel, appropriate standards and certification schemes are being developed. During this period, clear guidance is crucial for integrating this technology into working practices of professionals in the building sector. This course will cover the necessary topics for successful project implementation from the technical design to the legal and market issues of PV installation. Beginning with a resource assessment and an overview of the core components, students will comprehensively learn system design, economic analysis, installation, operation and maintenance of PV systems. Other topics that will also be covered include: marketing and the history of PV systems, new information on the photovoltaic market, new material on lightning protection, building integration systems, and PV systems design software.

Prerequisite: ET103 or CP104

This course will introduce students to the general and specific information on the least equipment, including alarm systems, locks, safes, fire sprinklers, lighting devices, and video and intercom systems designed to enhance security. Through the clear instructions and detailed illustrations in this course, students can learn to install and use this equipment properly.

Prerequisite: ET103

This course will focus on the application of electronic amplifiers, oscillators, and power supplies. The use of techniques such as feedback, coupling, and impedance matching will be studied. Multi-vibrators, industrial amplifiers, modulation and detection circuits, tuned amplifiers, and operational amplifiers will be discussed. Computer-assisted projects are integrated into the laboratory and lecture topics.

Prerequisite: ET211

Radio Frequency Communications and Frequency Modulation communications systems will be discussed. The testing, troubleshooting, and repair of systems such as cellular phones, beepers, and alarm systems are presented. Computer-assisted projects are integrated into the laboratory and lecture topics.

Prerequisite: ET103

This course provides an understanding of the design and construction of printed and integrated circuits, and the fabrication of electronic devices. Topics will include building, testing, and use of simple microcomputers, microcomputer interconnections, telecommunications, interfacing and mass storage, digital and analog circuit design, and use and application of peripheral devices. Internet and computer- assisted projects are integrated into the laboratory and lecture topics.

Prerequisite: ET103

This course introduces different types of electrical machines (motors, generators, converters, transformers), their functions and their applications. Power electronics devices (controlled rectifiers, inverters, cycloconverters, regulators) and their industrial and commercial applications, such as variable frequency AC drive, controlled DC drive, CNC machines, HVAC, welding are studded in detail.

Prerequisite: ET103

This course provides the student with an understanding of the purpose of HVAC design, control strategies, architectural, and structural considerations. Heating and transport systems and load calculations will be explained. The selection and design of equipment as well as automatic control will be discussed. Computer-assisted projects are integrated into the laboratory and lecture topics.

Prerequisite: ET165

This course is designed to give students a comprehensive background in solar project site assessment. In Phase I of the course, students will be given background in the nature of solar energy, solar radiation calculations, solar collectors, thermal energy storage, solar energy economics, solar water heater, passive space heating system, mechanical solar space heating systems, solar cooling, and state approaches to solar legislation. In Phase II, this course will cover topics in developing objectives that are used in fully understanding a project site and the interconnection requirements (such as site assessment), technology selection, utility interconnection requirements, energy RFPs & bid requirements, and preliminary financial models. Upon completion of the course, students will possess sufficient knowledge and training to develop a full solar project site assessment.

Prerequisite: ET165

The rapid growth of renewable energy system installation generates a tremendous need for the maintenance of such system installations. Just about all renewable energy systems are constructed with electrical components and modules. This Renewable Systems Troubleshooting & Repair course is designed to introduce students to the general principles of troubleshooting and maintenance of renewable energy systems, as well as the technical steps required in troubleshooting and maintenance. At the completion of this course, students should be able to maintain, troubleshooting and repair typical renewable energy system installations.

This course will cover topics in principles of troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures, electronic test instruments, troubleshooting DC/AC circuits, digital circuits, electric motors and generators, industrial controls, residential and industrial wiring, solar photovoltaic systems, microprocessor-based systems, motor and motor controls, solar cells and solar panels, converter, solar power systems, wind energy systems and solar residential and commercial heating systems.

Prerequisite: ET165

This course is designed to give students a comprehensive background in Wind Energy Systems Design & Installation. The course will focus on an introduction to wind energy systems, the role of wind as a renewable energy, energy conversion and general concepts, electronics of wind-energy systems and their implementation into the grid, design and control of electrical components like generators, converters and storage devices, wind energy harvest; and finally, much attention will be spent on the implementation of wind turbines and the requirements for power quality, installation methods and the future of wind energy. At the completion of this course, students should be able to conduct assessments, on-site installation and grid integration of wind energy systems.

Prerequisite: ET165

This course will teach students the latest technology to achieve the desired energy efficiency level for a building under any weather condition, also known as “Weatherization." Students will also be taught to perform energy auditing using industry principals, concepts and technology. Student will be involved in projects that will deal with the construction of a building weatherization model on a smaller scale. The following topics will be covered under weatherization: energy basics, sealing air leaks, ventilation systems, insulating a house or a building, windows of houses and buildings, heating systems, air-conditioning, heating hot water, renovations, appliances, and lights. Additional topics covered include: auditing basics; energy accounting and analysis; energy economic;, survey instrumentation; building envelope audit; electrical system audit; heating, ventilation and air-conditioning audit; upgrading HVAC systems for energy efficiency; verification of system performance; physical plant audit; central plant retrofit considerations; maintenance and energy audits; and finally, a review of self-evaluation checklists.

Prerequisite: CP135 or Co-requisite: ET103

This course will provide students with an understanding of the control system fundamentals of open and closed loop control systems, servomechanisms, and regulators. Design and analysis of feedback control systems will be discussed. Computer-assisted projects are integrated into the laboratory and lecture topics.

Prerequisite: ET151

Students will gain an understanding of the architecture, memory, and bus structure of microprocessors. Topics will include design and structure of the operating system, subroutines and techniques used in machine language programming, experiments in computer interfacing and design, circuit design and evaluation, and review of personal computer systems. Computer-assisted projects are integrated into the laboratory and lecture topics.

Prerequisite: CP154 or ET211

This course provides an understanding of the design and construction of printed and integrated circuits, and the fabrication of electronic devices. Topics will include building, testing, and use of simple microcomputers, microcomputer interconnections, telecommunications, interfacing and mass storage, digital and analog circuit design, and use and application of peripheral devices. Internet and computer- assisted projects are integrated into the laboratory and lecture topics.

Prerequisite: CP154 or ET211

This course discusses the theory, design, implementation, and application of electronic devices. The course topics will include computer and microchip architecture, fiber optics, computer aided manufacturing, and bio electronics. Internet and computer-assisted projects are integrated into the laboratory and lecture topics.

Prerequisite: ET250

The course discusses the theory, design, implementation, and application of electronic devices. The course topics will include computer and microchip architecture, fiber optics, computer-aided manufacturing, and bioelectronics. Internet and computer-assisted projects are integrated into the laboratory and lecture topics.

Prerequisite: CP100

This course provides students with a broad coverage of Fiber Optic Networks and related equipment such as: fiber optic cables, light sources (Lasers, LEDs), transmitters and receivers, repeaters, optical amplifiers (including Erbium-doped amplifiers), filters, circulators, etc. The use of optical multiplexing, modulation, and other technologies and their implementation in computer networks, medical, industrial, video and other equipment as well as wireless optical communications are discussed.

Prerequisite: EN100

This course provides students with an understanding of the principles of technical writing, including the rules used in formal communication and the procedures for organizing and writing technical reports, manuals, instructions, and documentation. Internet and computer-assisted writing and research projects are integrated into the laboratory and lecture topics.

Home Technology Integration (HTI) is the convergence or merging of previously separate technologies and systems in the home, including integrated home control, computer/home network, communications, lighting and energy management, entertainment and security, health and safety. The digital home market continues to boom as consumer’s desire everything from home theaters to wireless networks. This course is a valuable component which provides technical competency regarding the installation, integration and troubleshooting of automated home sub-systems, such as home security, audio/video, computer networks, electrical and structured wiring, HVAC (Heating/Air Conditioning Systems), cable/satellite, broadband, and telecommunications.

Prerequisite: ET103

HVAC CONTROLS course is designed to prepare students for careers requiring skills in the operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of HVAC Electrical/Electronic and mechanical equipment found in residential and commercial buildings. It provides a comprehensive overview of basic electrical fundamentals, wiring, motors, electronic devices and systems, and controls found in HVAC equipment. Emphasis is placed in the following areas: safety, tools for HVAC technicians, fundamentals of electricity and electrical meters, series circuits, parallel and series-parallel circuits, magnetic theory, fundamentals of AC electricity, transformers, three-phase, and single-phase voltage, symbols and diagrams for HVAC and refrigeration systems, relays, contactors and solenoids, single-phase open motors, single-phase hermetic compressors, three-phase open motors and three-phase hermetic compressors, motor starters and over-current controls, thermostats and heating controls, pressure controls, timer controls, and other controls, electronic devices for HVAC systems, electrical control of heating and air-conditioning systems, electrical control of heat pump and refrigeration systems, and direct digital control systems. This course is essential for all HVAC service technicians, contractors, and HVAC installers.

Co-requisite: ET103

This course is designed to introduce and explain theory, operational principle, and technical facts of GPS (Global Positioning System) applications in various industries, along with GPS application design technology. Topics included: the history of navigation, and historical events due to success or failure of a navigation procedure; contemporary navigation systems; the operational principle of GPS systems and why we need them; the segments of GPS and U.S. Navy Navstar GPS; the operational principle of DGPS, and GPS receiver imbedded in modern cellular phones; Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS), Local Area Augmentation System (LAAS) and Joint Precision Approach and Landing System (JPALS); low and high sensitivity, and precision GPS application design technology phases and implementation steps; case study for the GPS application design; next generation GPS & GNSS, and the current status of GPS systems under development by other nations; the GPS systems available in market and its various applications; and the current and future applications of GPS technology.

Co-requisite: ET103

This course is designed to introduce students to modern automotive electrical, electronic, and computer systems. The course will primarily focus on basic concepts of automotive electrical diagnostic procedures and skills development. The use of techniques such as diagnostic stories is included throughout to help illustrate how real automotive electrical problems are solved. Students will learn about fundamentals of DC and AC electric circuit theory; computer fundamentals; ignition system components and operation; ignition system diagnosis and service; electronic fuel injection operation, diagnosis, and service; engine performance diagnosis; computer sensors; electronic fuel injection operation; cranking systems; charging system; lighting and signaling circuits; accessory circuits; audio systems; service information; required tools and troubleshooting safety procedures. Upon completion of this course students should understand the fundamental concepts and techniques in troubleshooting automotive electrical, electronic, and computer systems.

Prerequisite: ET103 or Co-requisite: ET211

This course is designed to introduce students to the technology used for designing a PC interface circuit to control and interact with external devices. This course will primarily focus on structure and the operational functions of a typical PC; CPU interrupt sequences for service from an external device; types of PC to external device connectors and its signal format; fundamental knowledge of digital electronic circuits and technology; standard parallel, serial and USB Ports; operational principal and signal format of USB (Universal Serial Bus); the design of a USB-based controller and device; asynchronous serial communications, software & hardware UARTs and USART; A/D and D/A circuits and its application design; remote control systems, radio, laser and infrared based RC application design; bluetooth technology and its application design; Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs); and technology to build prototype hardware and software modules for the implementation and testing of an interfacing circuit. Upon successful completion of the course, students should have gained enough fundamental knowledge, information, and technical skills to be able to analyze, design, and implement electronic interface circuits for applications of controlling external devices by using a PC.

Prerequisite: ET103

This advanced course will introduce students to solid state electronic devices (diodes, thyristors, transistors, integrated circuits) and their applications. Emphasis will be placed on the application of modern solid state electronic devices at analog and digital circuits for computers, telecommunication network equipment, power supply systems, amplifiers, audio/ video equipment, microwave circuits, industrial electronics, electrical machines, amd CNC. Topics include the theoretical background of electronic devices, principles of design, installation, maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of modern solid electronic circuits.

Prerequisite: ET103

This advanced course will introduce students to solid state electronic devices (diodes, thyristors, transistors, integrated circuits) and their applications. Emphasis will be placed on the application of modern solid state electronic devices at analog and digital circuits for computers, telecommunication network equipment, power supply systems, amplifiers, audio/ video equipment, microwave circuits, industrial electronics, electrical machines, and CNC. Topics include the theoretical background of electronic devices, principles of design, installation, maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of modern solid electronic circuits.

Prerequisite: ET100 or Co-requisite: ET103

This advanced course will introduce students to power electronic converters (AC-DC, AC-AC, DC-DC, DC-AC) and their applications. An emphasis is placed upon the application of modern power electronics for electrical machines, motor control, industrial electronics, power supply systems, UPS, commercial electronics, computer electronics, HVAC, transport, etc. Topics include study of power electronic devices (diodes, thyristors, and transistors), principles of design, installation, maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of modern power electronic circuits.

Prerequisite: ET103

This course offers a comprehensive introduction to the hardware, parameters, and architectures of RF/microwave wireless systems. The course will provide students with an understanding of the fundamental and essential knowledge and facts of RF (Radio frequency) and Microwave (RM), and related infrastructure. The following content of RM knowledge and information, and RM application design technology will be included in the course of study: an introduction to RF and microwave, frequency spectrum and wireless applications, the Coupled Structure and Matching Modules, review of RF waves and transmission lines, antenna system, system components and system parameters, receiver system components and parameters, transmitter and oscillator system, radar and sensor systems, wireless communication systems, Modulation and demodulation, multiple-access techniques, and wireless systems in commercial applications. Upon completion of the course, students will be able to apply their knowledge of RF and Microwave (RM) to fulfill the work responsibilities of an entry-level technician in the RM industry.

Prerequisite: ET103 or Co-requisite: ET414

This advanced course will introduce students to the generation, transmission and distribution of electric power. An emphasis is placed upon electrical power distribution systems (transmission lines, substations, transformers and regulators) and the application of modern power electronics for electrical power engineering. Topics include the study of control of power systems (voltage, frequency, energy, power, harmonics), power quality, principles of design, installation, maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of modern power circuits. Conventional and non conventional energy sources will also be discussed.

Co-requisite: ET103 or CP104

This course provides students with a broad knowledge of Fiber Optic Networks and related equipment such as: fiber optic cables, light sources (Lasers, LEDs), transmitters and receivers, repeaters, optical amplifiers (including Erbium-doped amplifiers), filters, circulators, etc. Discussed in this course is the use of optical multiplexing, modulation, and other technologies, and their implementation in computer networks, medical, industrial, video and other equipment, as well as wireless optical communications. Students will be introduced to principles of modern fiber optic networks and wireless optical communications, fiber optic and other related telecommunication hardware, various applications of fiber optic systems (including computer networks, medical, industrial, video and other equipment), principles of optical communication systems design, configuration, testing and troubleshooting, and finally skills of safety and environmental issues related to fiber optics, lasers and microwave communications.

Prerequisite: ET165

Photovoltaics, the direct conversion of sunlight to electricity is now one of the fastest growing technologies for electricity generation as a renewable energy resource. The course introduces and explores the energy conversion potential of advanced approaches for improving performance of the technologies. This course will cover topics in black-bodies, white suns, energy, entropy and efficiency, single junction cells, tandem cells, hot carrier cells, multiple electron-hole pairs per photon, impurity photovoltaic and multiband cells, Thermophotovoltac and Thermophotonic conversion.

Co-requisite: ET104 or ET106

This course provides students with fundamental and essential knowledge and facts of Electronic Design (ED), the fabrication phases, related infrastructure, and the available tools of ED in the industries. The course will primarily focus on the fundamentals of electronic design phases, design and fabrication of electronic prototype projects, planning and construction, testing and troubleshooting, industry standard practices, hands-on experience in project building, finalization for a mass-produced product, and finally, required documentation. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to apply their knowledge of Electronic Design to fulfill the responsibilities of an entry-level Electronic Design Associate.

Co-requisite: ET103 or CP104

This course provides students with a broad knowledge of Fiber Optic Networks and related equipment such as: fiber optic cables, light sources (Lasers, LEDs), transmitters and receivers, repeaters, optical amplifiers (including Erbium-doped amplifiers), filters, circulators, etc. Discussed in this course is the use of optical multiplexing, modulation, and other technologies, and their implementation in computer networks, medical, industrial, video and other equipment, as well as wireless optical communications. Students will be introduced to principles of modern fiber optic networks and wireless optical communications, fiber optic and other related telecommunication hardware, various applications of fiber optic systems (including computer networks, medical, industrial, video and other equipment), principles of optical communication systems design, configuration, testing and troubleshooting, and finally skills of safety and environmental issues related to fiber optics, lasers and microwave communications.