Instructor : Frank Archambeault
Email: Farchambeau@fsc.edu
Telephone: 978-665-3703
Office : E-207
WWW: falcon.fsc.edu/~farchambeau
Text : Electronics Fundamentals, 4 th Edition, Floyd
Course Prerequisite:
Calculus I ( or concurrently )
Course Description :
This course provides the student with an introduction to the field of
electronics, including both design and troubleshooting techniques, to provide
the basis upon which to build a better understanding of the hardware upon
which software programs execute and, in turn, the programs themselves.
The course assumes no prior knowledge of electronic circuits. However,
the student should have a solid background in both algebra and trigonometry
and should be at least taking Calculus I concurrently. This course will
provide the basis that will enable the student to study and understand
the underlying hardware used in the design of the digital computer and
its interfaces. Extensive laboratory work illustrates the design, operation
and behavior of circuits as well as the use of modern laboratory test equipment.
Topics covered include basic DC resistive circuits, RC charging circuits,
Thevenin’s theorem, analog signals, semiconductor theory, diodes, transistors
(with particular emphasis on switching circuits), operational amplifier
theory and applications, and timer circuits.
Attendance:
Full attendance is expected at all classes and labs.
Homework:(click for current assigments)
All reading and assigned problems must be completed. Most assigned problems will be covered in class.
Quizzes:
At least five 10-15 minute quizzes will be given in class ( some will be unannounced ). There will be no makeups on missed quizzes for any reason. Missed quizzes will be assigned a grade of zero. The sum of the quiz grades will be counted as equivalent to one exam.
Exams:
Three exams will be administered which will cover all material presented in class, lab, and homework assignments. Also, there will be a comprehensive final exam at the end of the course. Makeup exams will be permitted at the discretion of the instructor and only in special, documented instances. It is the responsibility of the student to schedule any such makeup.
Grading:
Exams/Quizzes 50%
Lab 20%
Final 25%
Other 5% ( attendance, participation, etc. )
Laboratory:
Lab sheets will be provided at least one week in advance so that you may read and properly prepare for the lab session prior to coming to the lab. Your lab grade will depend upon attendance, performance, preparation and written reports ( format and timing will be provided ).
Experiments: (The following list may be amended as appropriate.)
1. DC Circuits
2. AC Circuits ( oscilloscope )
3. Series-Parallel Circuits
4. Thevenin's Theorem
5. Rectification/ Power Supplies
6. Transistors I
7. Transistors II
8. Amplifier Design
9. Operational Amplifiers
10. Comparators
11. 555 Timer Circuits
12. Basic Logic Gate Design
Note: If you require any special arrangements be made due to any type
of documented learning disability, please see the instructor as soon as
possible to discuss your needs.