General Information

A hands-on introduction to modern applied physics computer-aided experimental design with weekly laboratory-based problem solving culminating in the development and use of an automated laser scanning microscope system. Students learn fundamentals of the theory and practice of computer-aided control of equipment and data acquisition in an applied physics laboratory. 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 develop effective writing and communication skills both as a tool for practicing engineering design and for the dissemination of knowledge through a formal article.

Prerequisites

ENGRC 3640. No prior knowledge of LabVIEW is required; LabVIEW basics will be learned through weekly laboratory activities rather than by formal instruction.

Topics Covered

  • Introductory optical microscopy
  • Analog-to-digital conversion and diital-to-analog conversion
  • Hardware timing
  • Error in digital systems
  • Discrete Fourier analysis and sampling theorem
  • Data analysis is performed primarily using MATLAB or Python and instrument interfacing is using LabVIEW and serial communication protocols

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