This is the first course in a two-course sequence in computational problem solving of engineering and scientific problems. The problems solved will stress the application of sequence, selection, repetitive, invocation operations, and arrays. The development of proper testing procedures to ensure computational accuracy will be stressed. Students, upon successful completion of this course, will be able to analyze introductory engineering and scientific problems, design, code, test, and document procedural software solutions.

This course introduces students to the underlying building blocks of digital system and microcontroller design. Digital systems topics that are covered include: number systems, truth tables, Boolean algebra, combinational and sequential logic, and finite state machines. A microcontroller is used to teach register programming, reading and writing digital I/O, bitwise operations and bit-masking and microprocessor architecture. Laboratory exercises are designed to illustrate concepts, reinforce analysis and design skills, and develop instrumentation techniques associated with the lecture topics.

This course implements the techniques and concepts developed in microcontroller systems. Emphasis is placed on the use of an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) to program a microcontroller at the register level. Skills in debugging, implementation, and demonstration of basic microcontroller systems will be developed.

This course presents typical structures and applications of microcontroller systems. Emphasis will be on: hardware, programming, input/output methods, typical peripherals/interfacing (including Timers, ADC and micro to micro communications), interrupt handling and small system design and applications using high level programming languages. Microprocessor architecture and assembly programming will be introduced to provide a base for more advanced digital designs. Laboratory exercises are designed to illustrate concepts, reinforce analysis and design skills, and develop instrumentation techniques associated with the lecture topics.

This course is a more in depth coverage of current logic design and verification methodologies using a modern hardware description language (HDL). Topics include coding for different levels of abstraction; implementation of arithmetic circuits and finite state machines, hierarchical designs, reusable component design, data and control path, best coding practices, design constraints and verification. The laboratories are designed to illustrate concepts, reinforce analysis and design skills, and develop instrumentation techniques associated with the lecture topics.

Students will apply engineering problem solving methods used in industry to complete projects involving engineering topics such as mechanics, circuits, robotics, and thermodynamics. Software tools are used to model their designs, perform design calculations, collect and analyze data. Finally, students will present their work professionally using both written and oral communication software. The goal of the class is to have students become familiar with the many aspects of mechanical engineering through hands on, experiential learning and prepares them to work professionally and effectively in a team setting both in college and in industry.