ENGRD 2640 - Computer - Instrumentation Design

(crosslisted)
(also AEP 2640)

Fall, spring. 3 credits.

Prerequisite: CS 1112.

Staff.

Students use a computer to control equipment and acquire measurements in an engineering or scientific laboratory. Topics include data types, analog-to-digital conversion, digital-to-analog conversion, digital in/out, counter/timers, serial communication protocols, error analysis, least-squared fitting, introductory Fourier analysis, electrical waveguides/transmission lines, stepper motors, and introductory optical microscopy. Laboratory activities include practice exercises, measurement of pulse reflections in a transmission line, and development of a laser scanning microscope system. Data analysis is performed primarily using MatLab^TM and instrument interfacing is primarily using LabVIEW^TM, but also C++. Students develop effective written communication skills in the context of science and engineering. They prepare progress reports, technical reports, and formal articles based on laboratory work.

Outcome 1: Learn techniques for interfacing computers with engineering and scientific measurements.

Outcome 2: Extend programming skills to using I/O operations in C++, graphical programming, and “virtual instrument” concepts.

Outcome 3: Improve technical writing skills in various forms, progress reports, technical reports and rapid, brief communications.