AEP 2640 - Interfacing the Digital Domain with an Analog World

(crosslisted) ENGRD 2640

Fall. 3 credits. Letter grades only.

Prerequisite: CS 1110 or CS 1112. Corequisite: ENGRC 2640. Permission of instructor required for seniors.

J. Moses.

A hands-on introduction to computer-aided instrumentation with weekly team and laboratory-based problem solving culminating in the development of a laser scanning microscope system. Students learn fundamentals of the theory and practice of computer-aided control of equipment and data acquisition in an engineering or scientific laboratory. Topics include data types, analog-to-digital conversion and digital-to-analog conversion, counters/timers, serial communication protocols, error analysis, least-squared fitting, introductory Fourier analysis and sampling theorem, stepper motors, and introductory optical microscopy. Data analysis is performed primarily using MATLAB or Python and instrument inerfacing is using LabVIEW. (No prior knowledge of LabVIEW is required; LabVIEW basics will be learned through weekly laboratory activities rather than by formal instructions). This course means to introduce students to the practice of scientific and engineering R&D, which includes stages of design, experimentation, and the communication of knowledge gained. Students will develp effective writing skills both as a tool for practicing the scientific method and engineering design and for the dissemination of knowledge through a formal article.

Outcome 1: Hands-on learning of techniques for interfacing computers with engineering and scientific measurements using graphical programming and “virtual instrument” concepts.

Outcome 2: Gain experience using scientific and engineering laboratory practices through weekly problem solving and team-based learning.

Outcome 3: Develop technical writing skills essential to the practice of science and engineering, including use of the laboratory notebook and writing technical reports.