What is electronics and why is it so important for the future?
The concept of electronics is used about electronic components, integrated circuits and electronic systems. 30 years ago, no one has ever thought of the expansive growth of the electronics-, information- and communication technology we have seen the last decades. Our new digital life is built on the development of miniaturized electronic circuits (microchips) and broadband telephone- and data transmission through optical fiber and wireless networks.
The computer has been a common tool both at work and at home. By continued miniaturization of digital electronic components and circuits, the PC and other advanced electronics have been commercially available for people in general. The capacity of the computers almost doubles every year. This expansion is achievable because of tighter packaging of the components onto the microchip. But as we get closer to the atomic limit where each component on the microchip is just a few atom lengths, we need innovative developments for the future.
Modern cars have been exposed by a tremendous development where the main parts of the functions have been controlled by the electronics. The cars are equipped with electronics like airbag systems, ABS brakes, anti spinning system and burglar alarm. Within transportation, we have obtained advanced electronic navigation systems, instrument landing system for airplanes and anti collision systems for ships and cars. Automatic toll rings around the largest cities provides money for new roads and attempts for environmentally friendly traffic.
Furthermore, modern electronics have revolutionized medical diagnosis by introducing new techniques like CT (computer tomography), MR (magnetic resonance) and ultrasonic imaging systems.
Common for the realization of these new technical developments, besides digital circuits, are the sensors that can “feel” sound, light, pressure, temperature, acceleration, etc., and actuators that can “act”, i.e. carry out specific operation like switch on a knob, or transmit sound- or light signals.
The study of electronics at NTNU makes sure that you will get a general knowledge so you can contribute to the electronics of the future. You will not learn the details about how a traditional TV works, rather the principles for todays and tomorrows TV technology.