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.