What Do Computer Engineers Do? | What is Computer Engineering? | Jobs for Computer Engineers

Summary

This video explores the dynamic field of computer engineering, which blends electrical engineering and computer science. It covers the roles of computer engineers in hardware and software design, including areas like microprocessors, circuit design, robotics, and embedded systems. The history of the field is also discussed, highlighting key milestones like the development of the first computer and the rise of semiconductor technology. Viewers learn about various subfields such as processor design, quantum computing, and computer vision, as well as career paths and the work environment for computer engineers.

Takeaways

• 😀 Computer engineers work at the intersection of electrical engineering, electronics, and computer science, specializing in both hardware and software integration.
• 🖥️ Computer engineers design microcontrollers, microprocessors, circuit boards, and operating systems, contributing to the development of personal computers, supercomputers, and embedded systems.
• 🔧 Tasks include writing software and firmware for embedded systems, designing large-scale integrated circuits, and working in robotics, controlling digital systems like motors and sensors.
• 📜 The history of computer engineering dates back to the creation of the ABC computer in 1939 by Atanasoff and Berry, marking the beginning of advancements in this field.
• ⚡ Transistors (1947), integrated circuits (1959), and the first microprocessor by Intel in 1971 were key milestones in the evolution of computer engineering.
• 💻 Computer engineering has two main branches: hardware engineering (focused on physical components) and software engineering (focused on software development).
• 📊 The software industry offers more career opportunities than hardware, but a deep understanding of both is essential for staying relevant in the field.
• 🔬 There are 12 subfields in computer engineering, including processor design, cryptology, telecommunication systems, computational science, robotics, and quantum computing.
• 🤖 Robotics, computer vision, and embedded systems are growing areas within computer engineering, combining hardware and software to build advanced technologies like autonomous vehicles and space research equipment.
• 🧑‍💼 Computer engineers typically work in office environments or labs, but the profession involves both desk-based and hands-on work, especially in hardware testing and implementation.
• 🏅 The Professional Engineer (PE) exam for computer engineers is not commonly taken, but the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is available for undergraduates to start their career path.

Q & A

What is the main focus of computer engineers?

Computer engineers focus on the intersection of electrical and electronics engineering with computer science. They specialize in both hardware and software integration, including the design of microcontrollers, processors, and circuit boards, as well as developing embedded systems and operating systems.

What are some tasks that computer engineers typically work on?

Computer engineers may work on tasks such as writing software and firmware for embedded microcontrollers, designing very large scale integration (VLSI) chips, analog sensors, circuit boards, and operating systems. They are also involved in robotics research and system integration.

What is the historical significance of the ABC computer in the field of computer engineering?

The ABC computer, developed in 1939 by John Vincent Atanasoff and Clifford Berry, is historically significant as one of the first electronic digital computers. It was created by two electrical engineering graduates, and its development marked a pivotal moment in the history of computing and computer engineering.

How are computer engineering and electrical engineering related?

Computer engineering is closely related to electrical engineering, as it integrates aspects of electrical and electronics engineering with computer science. Many computer engineering programs are offered alongside electrical engineering, and it's not uncommon for students to double major in both fields.

What are the two main branches of computer engineering?

The two main branches of computer engineering are computer hardware engineering and computer software engineering. While hardware engineers focus on physical systems like microprocessors and circuit design, software engineers work on developing software, operating systems, and algorithms.

Why is software development so important for computer engineers?

Software development is critical for computer engineers because the field of computer engineering has become increasingly integrated with software. Even hardware-focused engineers need to understand software development to remain competitive and relevant in the field, especially with the rise of software-driven technologies.

What are some subfields within computer engineering?

Some subfields within computer engineering include processor design, cryptology and information protection, communications and wireless networks, computational science, computer vision, embedded systems, quantum computing, and VLSI design.

How does quantum computing differ from traditional computing?

Quantum computing uses quantum phenomena like superposition and entanglement to perform computations that are exponentially faster than traditional computing. Quantum computers are expected to solve complex problems like integer factorization much quicker than classical computers.

What is the typical work environment for computer engineers?

Computer engineers typically work in office environments, either in corporate settings or labs. Those working in hardware may spend time on system testing and implementation, while software engineers focus on coding and system development. It's a white-collar profession with an emphasis on problem-solving and design.

Is it necessary to take the Professional Engineer (PE) exam for computer engineers?

While computer engineers can take the Professional Engineer (PE) exam, it is not commonly pursued in the field. The PE exam is more relevant to disciplines like civil engineering and HVAC. Many computer engineers prefer to focus on industry experience and career growth rather than obtaining the PE certification.