CaST yourself in a new light!
Ever wanted to make a computer see, hear and perhaps even control the
physical world around you? Wondered what is so special about silicon crystals
that support most of today's computer and electronic chips? Really wanted to
understand how transistors work? Tried to make computers do something more than
balance a checkbook, write a resume, or play a video game? Do you think your washer and
dryer should be on the Internet?
Academic knowledge and real-world skills
Computing and Solid-state device Technology (CaST)
combines a thorough training in natural sciences with an extensive education in computing.
This is an interdisciplinary program with an emphasis on the
practical aspects of computing and applications of solid-state device
technology; use of computer-based and other solid-state
electronic devices in control, manufacturing, and research; and the skills
needed to interface and use solid-state devices in real-world applications.
Solid-State Physics
Solid-state physics, the science of modern high-tech materials, is the focus
of research of every Physics faculty member at Brock. State-of-the-art equipment
for high-temperature and high-vacuum sample preparation, and a wide range of
analytical instruments (x-ray, nuclear magnetic resonance, optical, and
far-infrared spectrometers, superconducting quantum interference devices --
SQUIDs, high-pressure calorimeters, etc.) is available at Brock to first make
and then investigate the properties of everything from high-temperature
superconductor films to biological cell model membranes. From semiconductor-based
electronics to unique sensors -- solid-state physics is the foundation of our
modern high-tech world.
Electronics
Our well-equipped modern Electronics lab has individual work stations, each
equipped with top-of-the-line digital multimeters, programmable power supplies,
function generators, digital and analogue oscilloscopes, PCs with interface and
prototyping boards. In addition, the Faculty of Mathematics and Science has a
professional Electronics Shop, and its equipment, software and the expertise of
its engineers and technicians is often called upon in connection with undergraduate
student projects. Projects involving CAD, board-level layout, and surface-mount
assembly are performed by students using the equipment and under the supervision
of the Electronics Shop.
Is it for me?
It's a tough program. You will hit the books, all right, and
you will also get to do some exciting labs.
You will make various solid-state devices: transistors,
detectors, interfaces, computer boards,
customized chips. You will use a variety of materials science techniques for
preparing and characterizing these devices: thin film deposition under high vacuum,
SQUID magnetometry, optical and infrared reflectometry.
You will write programs that control a robot, measure the heartbeat of a cockroach,
investigate chaos in a dripping water tap -- with the help of the devices that you
will have built.
And after I graduate?
As an integral part of this program, we are working on arranging
student summer placements in relevant industries: telecommunications,
factory-floor automation, home security, scientific instrumentation.
As you test yourself in the real world, you will be ready.
Graduating from this program will give you a set of
skills that could be put to immediate use in the industry, and a solid
foundation in basic sciences which will support life-long learning of
emerging skills and technologies.
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