This course introduces the basic laws used in the analysis of electrical circuits. Specific topics covered include Kirchhoff's Laws, resistors in series and parallel, circuit analysis methods, op amps, Thevenin/Norton equivalent circuits, and superposition. The course is limited to DC circuit analysis. SPICE is introduced as a computer analysis tool. The associated laboratory reinforces the lecture material. (prereq: MA-136) (3-2-4)

Outcomes

On successful completion of this course, the student will:

• Use an organized process, strategy, or template in solving problems
• Demonstrate a standard of expertise in the understanding of circuit laws and in the analysis of electrical circuits
• Write and solve KCL and KVL equations using standard methods of circuit analysis for DC circuits
• Simplify networks using source transformations and Thevenin's/Norton's theorems
• Use the superposition principle in circuit analysis
• Demonstrate calculator skills in solving simultaneous equations representing n-node circuit problems
• Demonstrate the ability to analyze DC circuits using PSPICE (assessed in Lab Exam 2)
• Demonstrate circuit laboratory skills and perform DC measurements (assessed in Lab Exam 3)
• Demonstrate the use of nodal analysis in the solution of circuit problems
• Analyze DC circuits that include ideal operational amplifiers

The above course description and outcomes were taken from the official course description.

General Course Policies

Please review the general course policies webpage.

Materials

• Fundamentals of Electric Circuits, 3rd ed., Alexander & Sadiku, McGraw-Hill, 2007
• Calculator capable of complex arithmetic

Homework

There will be approximately ten homework assignments. Each assignment is due at the beginning of class on the day indicated. Solutions to homework assignments must be well organized and neatly written. No credit will be given for work that is confusing or difficult to follow. The standard late policy applies to homework with the exception that no credit will be given for work that is submitted after the solution has been presented in lecture.

It is often helpful to discuss the homework problems with another student if you "get stuck;" however, each student must create their own solution to each problem individually.

Laboratory

The laboratory time will be spent doing experiments and demonstrating proficiency via laboratory exams. Experiments should be completed with a partner and exams will be done individually. Each student must complete all the experiments in order to pass this course.

My Schedule

* I would like to have lunch with you individually or as a group to get to know you better. If we eat in RWJ, housing will pick up my lunch bill. If you would prefer to eat elsewhere, we will each be responsible for our own bill. Feel free to suggest another time if the time above does not work for you.

Grading