J.P. Jacobs-PHYS 321 - Fall 2006
J. P. Jacobs - PHYS 321 - Fall 2006
Physics Department home page:
Instructor's home page:
Contact the instructor: j.jacobs@umontana.edu
Taught Fall Semester
- Lecture: Monday 3:10 - 5:00 PM.
- Lab: Tuesday or Thursday 1-4:30 PM. SC 012.
Office Hours for Fall 2006: Monday: 11-noon, Tuesday: 8-9:30 AM, Wednesday 2-3 PM, Thursday 9-10 AM, Friday 8-9:30 AM.
Download the Syllabus
for this course. (pdf format).
Electronics for Scientists, 3 credits. Offered fall semester.
These days, every practicing scientist needs a working knowledge
of electronics in order to gain an appreciation for the large number of
electronic devices used in every scientific laboratory. This course is
primarily designed with future physicists in mind, but the topics covered are appropriate
for biologists, chemists, geologists, foresters, and even health related sciences such as pre-med,
physical therapy and pharmacy.
The main goal of this course is to familiarize the student with electronics to a level that is
useful for the typical science researcher. Scientists often encounter
commercial electronic instruments for which they must have some basic understanding of their principles
and limitations. In addition, specialized electronics are also often required in many
fields, and the successful scientist must to be able to help develop customized electronic
devices that may not be available to purchase.
Scientists must be able to work closely with technicians who may be designing and building
specialized electronic equipment; an ability to "talk electronics" and to communicate and relate to
laboratory support staff is essential. Scientists must also have the ability to use electronic test
equipment to make measurements and perform circuit troubleshooting.
Thus the electronics labs are the most important component of the course, and part of the goal of the
course is to give students experience in laboratory techniques: setting up equipment, taking data,
analyzing it, and presenting it.
See the course syllabus for a detailed schedule of lecture topics, laboratory exercises and exams.
Back to Courses |