ENT 171/172           Understanding Circuits and Systems

 

COURSE OBJECTIVES   This two course sequence provides a complete circuit analysis preparation for Engineering Technology majors including: Space, Computer, Quality Assurance, and Electronics.  ENT 171/172 requires two hours/wk of classroom participation and an additional 5 hrs/wk of practical experimental circuit construction/checkout  (to be performed in the L210C laboratory).  These courses are crucial preparation for understanding the operation/design of more sophisticated electronic assemblies, systems, and networks.  ENT 171 begins the sequence with a comprehensive study of linear analog resistive circuit operation/design over the audio frequency range. This includes component selection and "tolerancing".  ENT 172 adds energy storage devices (reactive) including capacitors, inductors, and transformers. A complete general case circuit/system analysis (including transient effects)  is then undertaken. All electronic systems consist of a combination of these basic circuit building-blocks including filters.  A full understanding of circuit operation/design is then possible.

 

An extensive study of the proper selection and use of electronic test instrumentation to measure the essential circuit parameters (voltage, current, impedance) is performed throughout the applied lab experiment portion of each course. Calibration, metrology, loading effects, proper measuring/hookup techniques, and lab safety practices are emphasized. Circuit troubleshooting (down to the component level) is extensively covered. Computer-assisted instruction,  and computer circuit simulations are used throughout to further amplify the course material. Upon the completion of ENT 171/172,  the student is prepared for solid-state analog and digital system analysis/design, computer systems/networks, analog/digital communications, as well as an in depth study of the Quality Sciences. Written and oral technical presentations are required.

 

GRADING POLICY    1000 point maximum. Constituted from the following:

Exams                                          400 points maximum (Four Exams, no separate Final)

Lab Experiments                      250 points maximum (10-ENT 171,12-ENT 172)

Homework                                     75 points max

Attendance/Class Participation         75 points max

Projects/Computer Assignments     100 points max

Pop Quizzes                                          100 points max

Standard Grade Assessment          90 to 100 %    A

                                                                     80 to 90(-) %   B

                                                                     70 to 80(-) %   C

                                                                     60 to 70(-) %   D

                                                                     Below 60 %    F

Pop Quizzes will be given throughout the semester during class time only (not open/lab times). There is no make up for the quizzes.

 

ATTENDANCE POLICY: Each student is expected to attend every class session. The only exception to this policy are documented illness and/or advance notice of a work related assignment that prevents your physical presence. If you miss a class, you must inquire as to the work missed-from a fellow student or the instructor. Consult your syllabus for the scheduled assignments, but bear in mind that changes may be made during the course of the semester. An attendance sign-in sheet will be distributed each class session. It is your responsibility to sign the sheet before or just after the class session. Late policies are explained on another handout in greater detail. It is also the student's responsibility to come to each class session prepared, having read the assignment for the week beforehand, and having completed the homework assignment from the previous week.

 

OFFICE HOURS: There is an instructor on duty during the entire period each week that the OPEN LAB is in

operation (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday). Check with your assigned instructor for his particular schedule. You are free to ask questions, get help/tutoring, take Exams from any instructor on duty (not necessarily your assigned instructor). If you need additional help to understand a topic,  ask for it.