Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit provides an understanding of electron behaviour as particles and as waves; properties and carrier dynamics of electrons in solids, particularly in semiconductors; the behaviour of pn junctions; and the operation, modelling and design of diodes and transistors.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate how the evolution of electronic device technology has transformed industries such as energy, communications, manufacturing and medicine; (2) relate carrier transport phenomena (scattering, thermal velocity, drift, diffusion) and band structure (conductors, semiconductors and insulators) to doping, conductive properties, and electron and hole currents; (3) use Fermi-Dirac statistics (electron and hole populations), continuity equation (non-equilibrium carrier distributions), electrostatics and the depletion approximation to derive current-voltage characteristics of transistors and diodes; (4) model physical characteristics of a transistor as an electric circuit; (5) identify and explain experiment aims, methodology and outcomes orally and in a written report; and (6) demonstrate an ability to participate constructively, via meaningful contribution and respect for others' contributions, in team- or partner-based activities.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) laboratory reports; (2) group assignments; and (3) a final examination. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Professor Brett Nener
Unit rules
Prerequisites
ENSC2001 Motion
or ENSC2003 Engineering Electrical Fundamentals
and
MATH1002 Mathematical Methods 2
or MATH1012 Mathematical Theory and Methods
or MATX1012 Mathematical Theory and Methods
and
PHYS1001 Physics for Scientists and Engineers
or PHYX1001 Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Contact hours
lectures: 3 hours per week
practical classes: 1 hour per week
labs: 9 hours per semester
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.