ELD255 - Semiconductor Devices

Subject Title
Semiconductor Devices

Subject Description
This course provides an introduction to the electronic devices at the heart of all modern technology. It explores characteristics, principles and applications for diodes (rectifier, Zener and LED), transistors (BJT, FET and MOSFET) and operational amplifiers (Op-amps). This is a strongly lab-centric course, with lectures focusing on the support of hands-on lab work. Circuit analysis and design are aligned with Electronic Design and Automation (EDA) flow principles including schematic capture, circuit SPICE simulation (with OrCAD), prototyping, and test and measurement. Students learn how to analyze, design, build and troubleshoot a variety of circuits including rectifier circuits, power supplies and voltage regulators, transistor switches, Common Emitter (CE) amplifiers, and open and closed loop Op-amp circuits. A lab project draws together the key elements from this course. Students emerge with comprehensive and practical hands-on experience in basic electronic device analysis and design which provides a foundation for subsequent studies.

Credit Status
One subject credit in the Computer Engineering Technology program, Electronic Engineering Technology program (EET) and Electronic Engineering Technician programs (EEN).

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

1. Using appropriate mathematics and a knowledge of semiconductor theory, explain the operational principles of simple semiconductor devices including signal and Zener diodes, Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJTs), Field Effect Transistors (FETs) and Metal Oxide Semiconductor FETs (MOSFETs)
2. Using appropriate mathematics and a knowledge of the behaviour of circuits to explain the DC and AC operation of simple diode, BJT and MOSFET transistor circuits, and Op-amp circuits and use these in circuit applications.
3. Select, build and troubleshoot a variety of rectifier and voltage regulation circuits using appropriate components
4. Select, build and troubleshoot small signal amplifier circuits using BJTs and Op-amps
5. Select, design, build and troubleshoot transistor switches using BJTs and MOSFETs
6. Analyze, build, test and troubleshoot basic Complementary MOS (CMOS) logic circuits.
7. Use schematic capture and SPICE simulation tools to document, examine circuit operation and aid in design verification
8. Use lab equipment such as Power Supplies (PS), Digital Multi-Meters (DMM), and Oscilloscopes in the construction, testing and troubleshooting of electronic circuits

Essential Employability Skills

    •  Communicate clearly, concisely and correctly in the written, spoken and visual form that fulfils the purpose and meets the needs of the audience.

    •  Respond to written, spoken, or visual messages in a manner that ensures effective communication.

    •  Execute mathematical operations accurately.

    •  Apply a systematic approach to solve problems.

    •  Use a variety of thinking skills to anticipate and solve problems.

    •  Locate, select, organize, and document information using appropriate technology and information systems.

    •  Analyze, evaluate, and apply relevant information from a variety of sources.

    •  Show respect for diverse opinions, values, belief systems, and contributions of others.

    •  Interact with others in groups or teams in ways that contribute to effective working relationships and the achievement of goals.

    •  Manage the use of time and other resources to complete projects.

    •  Take responsibility for one's own actions, decisions, and consequences.

Academic Integrity
Seneca upholds a learning community that values academic integrity, honesty, fairness, trust, respect, responsibility and courage. These values enhance Seneca's commitment to deliver high-quality education and teaching excellence, while supporting a positive learning environment. Ensure that you are aware of Seneca's Academic Integrity Policy which can be found at: http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-integrity-policy.html Review section 2 of the policy for details regarding approaches to supporting integrity. Section 2.3 and Appendix B of the policy describe various sanctions that can be applied, if there is suspected academic misconduct (e.g., contract cheating, cheating, falsification, impersonation or plagiarism).

Please visit the Academic Integrity website http://open2.senecac.on.ca/sites/academic-integrity/for-students to understand and learn more about how to prepare and submit work so that it supports academic integrity, and to avoid academic misconduct.

Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecapolytechnic.ca.

Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Accessibility Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.

Camera Use and Recordings - Synchronous (Live) Classes
Synchronous (live) classes may be delivered in person, in a Flexible Learning space, or online through a Seneca web conferencing platform such as MS Teams or Zoom. Flexible Learning spaces are equipped with cameras, microphones, monitors and speakers that capture and stream instructor and student interactions, providing an in-person experience for students choosing to study online.

Students joining a live class online may be required to have a working camera in order to participate, or for certain activities (e.g. group work, assessments), and high-speed broadband access (e.g. Cable, DSL) is highly recommended. In the event students encounter circumstances that impact their ability to join the platform with their camera on, they should reach out to the professor to discuss. Live classes may be recorded and made available to students to support access to course content and promote student learning and success.

By attending live classes, students are consenting to the collection and use of their personal information for the purposes of administering the class and associated coursework. To learn more about Seneca's privacy practices, visit Privacy Notice.