Semiconductors and Electronics

Course Description

Welcome to the fascinating world of semiconductors and electronics! This comprehensive course, offered by the National University of Singapore (NUS), is designed to unravel the mysteries of semiconductors and their pivotal role in the electronics industry. Unlike traditional, math-heavy semiconductor physics textbooks, this course takes a unique approach by focusing on intuitive understanding and practical applications.

What You'll Learn

Throughout this course, you'll gain a deep understanding of the fundamental concepts that drive the electronics industry. You'll explore why some materials conduct electricity while others don't, and how we can manipulate these properties. By the end of the course, you'll be able to explain complex phenomena like static electricity, ionization, and the workings of a solar cell. You'll also master the terminology used in the semiconductor industry and be capable of performing basic calculations.

Prerequisites

Good news! This course is designed to be accessible to a wide range of learners. While it's suitable for first-year university undergraduate students, it's also perfect for older learners who haven't studied electrical engineering or materials science. The only prerequisite is a high school-level understanding of physics.

Course Content

• The nature of insulators and conductors
• Electron behavior within materials
• The science behind static electricity and lightning
• Light emission in materials and how gas discharge lamps function
• Electron emission from solids
• Factors affecting material conductivity
• The concept of bandgap in semiconductors
• Doping and its effects on conductivity
• The significance of semiconductors, particularly silicon
• The working principle of solar cells

Who This Course Is For

• First-year university students in science or engineering
• Professionals looking to understand the basics of semiconductor technology
• Anyone curious about how modern electronics work
• Learners who prefer intuitive understanding over heavy mathematics

Real-World Applications

The knowledge gained from this course has wide-ranging applications in our technology-driven world. Understanding semiconductors is crucial for:

• Developing new electronic devices
• Improving existing technologies like solar cells
• Understanding and troubleshooting electronic equipment
• Keeping up with advancements in the tech industry
• Making informed decisions about electronic products and their capabilities

Syllabus

By enrolling in this course, you're taking a significant step towards understanding the technology that powers our modern world. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into the fascinating realm of semiconductors and electronics!