Computer Engineering Subdisciplines Quiz

Computer Engineering Subdisciplines

• Specialization is concentrating on and becoming an expert in a particular subject, skill, or field.
• Computer engineering subdisciplines at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign:
  • Hardware Systems
  • Cyberphysical Systems
  • Networking and Distributed Computing
  • Computer and Network Security
  • AI, Robotics, and Cybernetics
  • Computer Systems Architecture, Parallel Processing, and Operating Systems

Hardware Systems

• This field focuses on building hardware components using strong knowledge of current and emerging devices, circuits, algorithms, compilers, and applications.
• Computer engineers in this area work on enhancing the speed, reliability, and energy efficiency of next-generation Very Large-Scale Integration (VLSI) circuits and microsystems, and automating the design process.
• Projects might include:
  • Low-power VLSI algorithms and architectures
  • Noise tolerance for VLSI and DSP
  • Mixed-signal analog IC design
  • MEMS for integrated passive RF components
  • Electrothermal simulation and electrostatic discharge protection for silicon-on-insulator CMOS circuits
  • Theoretical exploration of the fundamental bounds of efficiency and reliability of VLSI computation.

Integrated Circuits

• A package containing silicon with many transistors that process, analyze and interpret visual data.

Microprocessor

• Handles all instructions it receives from hardware and software running on the computer.

ASIC

• Application-specific integrated circuit.
• Found primarily in embedded systems customized for a specific purpose.

FPGA

• A logical chip programmed and used in a wide variety of applications.

Digital Signal Processor

• A processor optimized for performing the complex mathematical calculations inherent in processing digital signals.

VLSI Design

• The process of creating an integrated circuit (IC) by combining thousands of transistors into a single chip.

Micro Electromechanical Systems

• A process technology used to create tiny integrated devices or systems that combine mechanical and electrical components.

Cyberphysical Systems

• A new generation of networked embedded systems that bring together sensing, computation, communication, control, and actuation to sustain a continuous interaction with the physical world.
• Computer engineers in this area focus on enhancing systems’ speed, reliability, and performance through computer technology.
• Examples of cyberphysical systems include:
  • Consumer products
  • Business and industrial machines
  • Automated vehicles
  • Equipment for search and rescue, automated transportation systems, and human-robot coordination to repair equipment in space.

Embedded Systems

• A computer system that comprises a processor and memory with input and output capability.
• Examples - Modern automobiles.

Parallel Processing

• The method of evenly distributing computer processes between two or more computer processors

ICpEP

• Stands for Institute of Certified Professional Engineers.
• Envisions itself as the foundation of world-class computer engineers and the motivator of interest towards excellence in computer engineering.
• Aims to:
  • Unite all computer engineers into the national association
  • Establish advocacy, conferences, outreach activities, and publications dedicated to computer engineering
  • Participate with other allied societies and organizations in policy initiatives involving computer engineering as a profession
  • Provide an opportunity to contribute and attend presentations on research and development in computer engineering
  • Enhance the skills and knowledge of computer engineers through seminars and training
  • Acknowledge the stress, uncertainty, and disruption that change brings
  • Emphasize opportunities for growth, challenge, and reward.

Change-Adept Applications (Landis, 2013)

• These are applications of the change-adept approach to overcoming the challenges of pursuing a future in engineering.

Change-Adept

• Ability to adapt, handle change, and progress through different phases.

Change-Adept Applications (Landis, 2013)

• People who embrace change have traits that are often highlighted as essential to success in the contemporary world. Some of these traits are:
  • Resilience - These individuals have the ability to withstand and bounce back from adversity.
  • Coping - These individuals can cope with and adapt to a complex, fast-paced reality.
    • Lighten up the workload if deemed necessary.
    • Bring a sense of humor and a spirit of fun to the workplace to cushion all that rolling with the punches.
    • Encourage yourself to compensate for the demands and pressure of studies by developing counterbalancing activities in other areas of your life.
  • Creativity - People who embrace changing environmental conditions are exposed to new knowledge, people, and experiences.
    • Remember that everyone is born with a creative capacity that needs to be nurtured and engaged.

Goal Setting

• Having specific ideas of what you want to accomplish in the short and long term.
• When setting goals, there is a notion to strive for and something against which to measure your progress.

Preparing a Road Map

• Develop a “road map” that will lead you to graduation in engineering.
• Lay out a plan of what you will need to take each semester.
• Having a step-by-step road map to follow will increase your confidence and strengthen your commitment to achieving your goal.

Learning About Engineering

• Talk to your professors and become actively involved in a student chapter of the engineering society for your major.
• Your exposure has probably been indirect, through contact with the products that engineers design.
• Increased knowledge brings increased motivation.