So You Want to Be a COMPUTER ENGINEER | Inside Computer Engineering [Ep. 4]

Summary

This script demystifies the role of computer engineers, highlighting their interdisciplinary expertise between hardware and software engineering. It outlines the dynamic field's educational path, from foundational math and physics to specialized courses in circuits, computer architecture, and programming. The script also explores various career paths, such as hardware design, digital signal processing, network engineering, and the prevalent embedded systems. It addresses the 'comp E cage' concept, urging that passion and skill can transcend perceived limitations, and concludes with a note on the importance of qualification and determination in achieving one's dream job.

Takeaways

• 🌟 Computer Engineering is a field that combines electrical engineering and software engineering to design and develop computer systems.
• 🔍 The profession involves designing everything from intricate network details to the connective networks themselves, including everyday devices like smartphones and laptops.
• 🎓 University coursework for computer engineering includes foundational math and physics, programming, electronics, digital circuits, computer architecture, and algorithms.
• 👨‍🏫 Lab courses are crucial for hands-on experience with circuitry and programming, enhancing practical skills for the job market.
• 🛠️ Computer engineers may specialize in areas such as network engineering, computer systems, system programming, or digital hardware, depending on their interests and career goals.
• 💡 A computer is defined as a device that performs calculations based on program instructions, which includes a wide array of devices from gaming consoles to traffic lights.
• 🚀 Notable applications of computer engineering include the historic moon landing and modern conveniences like ATMs and drive-through ordering systems.
• 🔑 Embedded systems engineering is a popular career path, focusing on designing mini computer systems with a combination of software, firmware, and hardware.
• 🌐 Network engineering involves creating efficient communication protocols for interconnected devices, which can be applied to control systems like drone fleets.
• 🛑 The 'Comp E Cage' concept suggests that computer engineers might be at a disadvantage in software or electrical-specific jobs due to their dual focus but can excel in fields like embedded systems.
• 🚀 Success in computer engineering, as with any field, is found by following one's passion, being skilled, passionate, personable, and qualified for the desired job.

Q & A

What is the primary role of a computer engineer?

A computer engineer integrates knowledge of hardware and software to design and develop various types of computers and computing systems, contributing to the creation of devices that power our modern world.

How is computer engineering distinguished from electrical engineering and software engineering?

Computer engineering is a dynamic field that sits between electrical engineering, which focuses on hardware, and software engineering, which emphasizes programming and software systems. It combines elements from both to work on the design and functionality of computers and related devices.

What are some historical achievements attributed to computer engineers?

Computer engineers have played a crucial role in significant events such as the historic moon landing in 1969, showcasing their integral part in technological advancements.

What is the definition of a computer according to the script?

A computer is defined as a machine or device that performs processes, calculations, and operations based on instructions provided by a program, encompassing a wide range of devices from smartphones to ATMs.

What are the three main parts of a computer engineering curriculum as described in the script?

The curriculum is divided into introductory topics, computer foundations, and a final concentration path, which includes specialized courses that build upon a strong foundation in math, physics, and programming.

Why are introductory programming and electricity and magnetism physics courses important for computer engineering students?

These introductory courses lay the groundwork for understanding the fundamental concepts that will be essential throughout their studies and careers in computer engineering.

What is the significance of lab courses in computer engineering education?

Lab courses provide hands-on experience, allowing students to experiment with circuitry and programming, which is invaluable for developing practical skills and enhancing their resumes.

What career paths can a computer engineering degree lead to, according to the script?

A computer engineering degree can lead to careers in computer hardware design, digital signal processing, network engineering, and embedded systems and software design, among others.

What is the 'comp E Cage' concept mentioned in the script?

The 'comp E Cage' refers to the idea that computer engineers, with one foot in software and one in electrical engineering, might be at a disadvantage when competing for jobs that are specific to either field, potentially limiting them to a select few career paths where they have a real advantage.

What advice is given to computer engineering students regarding their career prospects?

The advice given is that despite the challenges of the 'comp E Cage,' success can be found in any field where a student's passion lies. It is emphasized that being skilled, passionate, and qualified will enable them to achieve their dream job.

How does the script suggest students prepare for their future in computer engineering?

The script suggests that students should take their foundational courses seriously, build a strong base in computer topics, and choose a concentration path that aligns with their interests and career goals.

Outlines

00:00

🔌 Introduction to Computer Engineering

This paragraph introduces the field of computer engineering, emphasizing its position between electrical and software engineering. It clarifies what computer engineering entails, debunking myths and explaining the role of computer engineers in designing and working with various devices, from historical milestones like the moon landing to everyday technology. The paragraph also delves into the educational aspect, outlining the university curriculum that includes foundational courses in math and physics, introductory programming, and electricity and magnetism physics, which are crucial for building a strong base in the field.

05:01

🎓 Deep Dive into Computer Engineering Curriculum

This section provides an in-depth look at the computer engineering curriculum, dividing it into three parts: introductory topics, computer foundations, and the final concentration path. It highlights the importance of understanding both hardware and software aspects, with courses ranging from circuit analysis and digital circuitry to computer architecture and system design. The paragraph also introduces lab courses that allow hands-on experience with circuitry and programming, as well as the significance of data structures, algorithms, and embedded system design in preparing students for a career in computer engineering.

10:01

🛠️ Exploring Career Paths in Computer Engineering

The final paragraph discusses various career paths available to computer engineering graduates, such as computer hardware engineering, digital signal processing, network engineering, and the highly popular embedded systems and software design. It emphasizes the broad applicability of computer engineering skills across different industries and the potential for innovation and impact. The paragraph also addresses the 'comp E cage' concept, which suggests that computer engineers might be at a disadvantage when competing for jobs specific to software or electrical engineering. However, it encourages students to pursue their passions and assures that with dedication and skill, they can succeed in their chosen careers.

Keywords

💡Computer Engineering

Computer Engineering is a field that combines electrical engineering and software engineering to design, develop, and maintain computer systems and hardware. In the video's context, it is the central theme, with the script discussing the role of computer engineers in creating devices that power our modern world, from the historic moon landing to everyday devices like smartphones and laptops.

💡Hardware

Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system, such as circuits, microcontrollers, and PCBs. The script emphasizes the importance of hardware in computer engineering, highlighting how engineers use their knowledge to design intricate components that form the backbone of various technologies.

💡Software Engineering

Software Engineering is the discipline of creating and maintaining software systems. It is closely related to computer engineering, as the script points out, with computer engineers often working on the software that runs on the hardware they design, creating a synergy between the two fields.

💡Embedded Systems

Embedded Systems are computer systems designed for specific tasks or functions, often found in devices like traffic lights, digital cameras, and even fast-food drive-through systems. The script describes embedded systems as a popular career path for computer engineers, emphasizing the practical application of their skills in real-world devices.

💡Digital Signal Processing

Digital Signal Processing involves the manipulation and analysis of signals in a digital format. The script mentions this as a career path for computer engineers, where they use their understanding of electrical signals to restore photos, enhance speech recognition, and clean up telecommunications waves.

💡Network Engineering

Network Engineering is the design and management of communication networks. The video script describes how computer engineers in this field work on creating efficient interconnected networks of computers, such as those that control manufacturing lines or social networks connecting billions of users.

💡Circuits

Circuits are a fundamental aspect of computer engineering, as they form the basis for electronic components and systems. The script discusses various types of circuits, such as AC and DC circuits and digital circuits, which use discrete signals to perform complex operations within computers.

💡Computer Architecture

Computer Architecture is the study of designing and organizing components in a computer system to optimize performance. The script highlights the importance of understanding computer architecture for engineers who need to know about CPUs, memory, and data transfer between devices.

💡Data Structures and Algorithms

Data Structures and Algorithms are essential components of computer science, teaching how to efficiently sort, store, and manipulate data. The video script notes their importance in the computer engineering curriculum, as they are crucial for software-related interviews and for developing efficient computer systems.

💡Microcontroller

A Microcontroller is a small computer contained on a single integrated circuit, used in embedded systems for controlling various devices. The script uses microcontrollers as an example of the hardware components that computer engineers design and program as part of their work.

💡Comp E Cage

The term 'Comp E Cage' refers to the idea that computer engineers, with a foot in both software and electrical engineering, may feel confined to a limited number of career paths where they have a unique advantage, such as embedded systems. The script discusses this concept to highlight the importance of computer engineers finding their niche and excelling in areas that combine both their hardware and software skills.

Highlights

Computer Engineering is a dynamic field between electrical engineering and software engineering.

Computer Engineers play a crucial role in designing devices that power our modern world.

A computer is defined as a device that performs calculations based on program instructions.

University coursework for computer engineering includes math, physics, and programming.

Introductory programming and electricity and magnetism physics courses are essential foundations.

Circuits classes teach AC/DC analysis and various circuit schemes.

Digital circuitry uses discrete signals and components like logic gates for efficient computing.

Computer architecture courses cover CPUs, memory, and data transfer between devices.

Data structures and algorithms are key for sorting, storing, and manipulating data.

Embedded system design is a popular career path, introducing microcontrollers and system development.

Final concentration paths include networks, computer systems, system programming, and digital hardware.

Computer hardware engineering involves designing microcontrollers and PCBs for various devices.

Digital signal processing manipulates data for applications like restoring photos and analyzing heart rates.

Network engineering focuses on creating efficient interconnected networks of computers.

Embedded systems and software design involves constructing software, firmware, and hardware of a system.

The 'comp E Cage' concept suggests computer engineers may be at a disadvantage in software or electrical-specific jobs.

Success in any field is found by following passion, being skilled, passionate, and qualified.

Transcripts

so you want to be a computer engineer

after all fusing electrifying circuitry

with the Unstoppable force of software

yields a skill set crucial to the

device's powering our modern world let's

debunk the public myths of what it means

to be a computer engineer and give it to

you straight this is the reality of

computer engineering first of all you

might be asking what is computer

engineering Computer Engineering is a

dynamic field nestled right between the

colorful Hardware of electrical

engineering and the vibrant practicality

of software engineering these Engineers

were integral pieces to everything from

the historic moon landing in the Summer

of 69 to the convenience and versatility

of the everyday device you're watching

this on which is awesome but what do

computer Engineers actually do besides

emailing memes back and forth computer

Engineers use their meticulous

programming hardware and computer

systems knowledge to design everything

from the minute details scattered across

networks of immense scale to the

connective networks themselves but most

often you'll find them working on what

we're calling computers

but wait what do we actually mean by

computers if you think you know the

definition well pause the video and

leave your guests in the comments below

if you said something like your

smartphone and laptop you'd be right but

it goes a little deeper than that a

computer is defined as a machine or

device that performs processes

calculations and operations based on

instructions provided by a program

so a Nintendo switch is a computer

traffic lights digital cameras ATMs even

drive through posts at McDonald's well

absolutely yeah each is a computer made

by computer Engineers but what's much

more interesting is how these Engineers

actually develop each individual

computer

but before we get into the fascinating

details we need to build a base level

knowledge of the field to do this we'll

take a look at the University coursework

that prepares each and every engineer

Behind These ingenious products as you

now know Computer Engineering fits in

nice and snug between the software and

electrical engineering Fields not

surprisingly their course load reflects

this and pulls not only from circuits

and electronics but programming

structures systems and algorithms too to

best devour this we'll divide the

curriculum track into three parts

introductory topics computer foundations

and the final concentration path let's

see how it all comes together

as with most engineering Majors you'll

hit the ground running with math physics

and genetic courses just in case you're

new here we always tell students to take

these classes very very seriously the

pace of these physics and calculus

courses specifically shock students so

much that the majority of engineering

dropouts are actually here in this first

stage check the description below for

the best Insider resources to navigate

these pitfalls

the most important courses in this first

stage are your introductory programming

and electricity and magnetism physics

courses no matter what career path you

take in this field these topics will

follow so it's best to start building a

strong Foundation as soon as possible

and now it's time to break out that

Sweat Band because it's time for the

computer foundations courses these

provide a baseline of all of the

computer topics that you'll need to

launch into any concentration path

toward the end of the degree starting

you off with some Hardware the circuits

classes brings power to your life

through AC and DC analysis in all types

of RLC circuit schemes after this you'll

build right into the digital domain and

no it's not like the Matrix alright it's

kind of like the Matrix the digital

circuitry employs a simple twist instead

of having continuous signals they have

discrete on or off signals this opens up

possibilities for Handy circuit

components like logic gates muxes and

flip-flops that enable the efficient and

Powerful Computing of today but the best

part about these classes is that they

have corresponding lab courses that

allow you to experiment with all types

of circuitry and lab equipment that you

want but the applications don't stop

there you also get to start simulating

circuits and programming logic and the

physical ones and zeros onto chips which

already creates a dog pile of competing

art skills for your resume

another interesting and extremely useful

course is computer architecture this

class teaches you all of the computer

need to knows CPUs and memory parallel

processing data transfer between devices

and other imperative information now

let's touch on the software side of the

degree data structures and algorithms

will teach you how to sort store and

manipulate the world's precious data

that fan companies simply can't do

without make sure to pay attention here

because these topics always pop up in

software related interviews besides that

you'll diversify that coding portfolio

with python C and C plus classes

providing you with all the software

tools you need to develop computers and

related systems and then you'll take a

student favorite embedded system design

class which is chalk full of Real World

skills embedded systems is the single

most popular career path out of a

computer engineering degree and this

course is an all-inclusive introduction

to it microcontroller use embedded

architecture develop tools memory

organization peripherals and a ton more

and the best part you use it all right

away as you design a system while you

learn in class now you only have one

thing standing in your way of walking

that stage and hoisting up that

acclaimed degree the final concentration

path will you choose the Network's

concentration where you design protocols

for the network layer of the software

stack which is just a really fancy way

of saying that you'll deal with

intricate communication between devices

I mean come on how cool would it be to

design the network that controls a fleet

of drones putting on a modern day

fireworks display maybe you like this

idea of dealing with systems but are

more interested in the computer side of

things no problem check out the computer

systems track this connects a number of

different Technologies together like the

array of Hardware that controls the

rotors and LEDs on each of the drones in

our light show maybe that system level

connection excites you but you're much

more proficient with software rather

than Hardware no matter consider the

system programming path looking back to

our colorful drones the system

programmer would create and or implement

the operating system that runs on these

drones ensuring that the most efficient

transmission of data from the host

computer to each drone runs flawlessly

further these Engineers could also be

responsible for implementing the actual

algorithms that make up the captivating

show that the crowd just can't get

enough of and the fourth and final copy

concentration is digital Hardware

these Engineers use programmable logic

to act as electrical brains controlling

circuitry an engineer implements PL in

the firmware of each drone so that when

our system programmer supplies the

drones with specific control signals

they will fly up and the LEDs will shine

red or fly left and blue with a

different control signal this is a

highly sought after skill in today's

world and necessary in every computer as

we defined in the beginning of the video

if you want a deeper dive on the

computer engineering program keep an eye

out for the detailed map of this college

curriculum coming out soon that's what

you all voted to see

make sure to subscribe so you too can

decide on what we post and with that

you've completed your computer

engineering degree and are ready to

start your lucrative successful

engineering career but which career will

you choose what options are even out

there this next part details exactly

that the Lush Computer Engineering

career landscape after that we get into

the single most important thing you need

to know before you start a computer

engineering degree and career make sure

to stay tuned to not miss it our first

career is an exciting one and the reason

many get into computer engineering in

the first place computer hardware these

Engineers employ everything they've

learned in circuits and computer

architecture classes the design Hardware

on all different types of computers you

could be designing microcontrollers pcbs

sensor interfaces and a ton more for

anything from gaming rigs to Apple's

next-gen AR headset to life-saving

medical devices and possibilities are

truly endless another popular path out

of a computer engineering degree is to

get into digital signal processing

signal processing is basically a

software engineering job that requires

in-depth knowledge of electrical signals

a perfect mix for a computer engineer if

you've never heard of it this career is

primarily manipulating data to better

understand a bigger picture this could

be restoring old photos enhancing speech

recognition cleaning up a

telecommunications wave and even

analyzing variations in heart rate the

possibilities and Fields of application

are again Limitless here but wait

there's more computer Engineers can also

go into network engineering which

deploys a system level perspective to

connect a number of computers this

group's computer interfacing systems

security and more all into one bundle to

create an efficient interconnected web

of computers

besides the Drone show example from

earlier this could also be a host

computer controlling an entire

manufacturing line of Teslas or the

Facebook Network that connects literally

billions of people now make sure you're

sitting down because we arguably Save

The Best For Last embedded systems and

software design like we mentioned

earlier this is the single most popular

path out of college for computer

engineers and for good reason it's

basically designing a mini computer

system these Engineers plan out and

construct most or all of the software

firmware and Hardware of a computer-like

system this could be choosing space

grade Hardware capable of receiving and

processing a signal in low earth orbit

the firmware that controls the hardware

and the software that oversees the

entire operation since this is such a

dense and interesting topic we already

have a video in the works that

specifically dives into the embedded

systems engineering career make sure you

subscribe so you don't miss it and

there's your overview of the computer

engineering landscape which means it's

finally time for the key advice that

every computer engineer needs to hear

directly from successful computer

Engineers themselves this advice

pertains to the comp E Cage which you

may or may not have heard of here's the

concept computer Engineers have one foot

in software and one in electrical

they're half as good as they could be in

either field they'll always be at a

disadvantage when competing for software

and electrical specific jobs they can

only get a job in the short list of

fields where they have a real Advantage

like embedded systems this idea of being

constrained to a few select careers is

what we call the comp E Cage while there

is some truth to this statement you must

know that no matter what degree you

graduate with there is success to be

found where your passion lies will

software Engineers on average have a leg

up on computer Engineers for Pure

programming careers yeah of course they

will but at the end of the day the most

skilled passionate personable and above

all else qualified candidate gets the

job whichever path you end up choosing

if you put in work to qualify yourself

and do everything in your power to

achieve your dream job you can and will

make it we see it happen all the time

want to know exactly how to become the

best engineering Prospect so that you

can enter the career of your dreams

whatever it is watch this video walking

you through our best methods