Chapter 1: The World of Modern Engineering

You are responsible for being able to:

1. Explain the basic functions in the VAB programming environment.
2. Explain the basic functions of the DSK board.
3. Explain the major differences between the scientific method and the engineering design approach. Be able to identify the steps of each process and briefly explain them.
4. Discuss the value to engineers of applying these approaches to create breakthrough products:
   > Challenging,
   > Connecting,
   > Visualizing,
   > Collaborating,
   > Harmonizing,
   > Improvising,
   > Reorienting, and
   > Synthesizing.
5. Define a Fermi problem or "back of the envelope" problem. State why they are useful tools to an engineer.
6. Identify and use the basic metric units and their prefixes.
7. Distinguish between analog and digital signals. State the advantages and disadvantages of each.
8. State why bits (binary digits) are so important to signal processing.
9. Know these historical events and figures:
   a. Claude Shannon's combination of Boolean algebra and binary code
   b. ENIAC computer
   c. Creation of first transistor at Bell Labs.
   d. Jack Kilby's invention of the Integrated Circuit
   e. Gordon Moore's Law
   f. the power of X² in transistor speed and density to the modern world of technology.
10. Explain how Intel is trying to extend Moore's law to create new "convergent" technologies and how this relates to Objective #4.
11. Discuss how the Bailey Field Video Project is an ongoing example of the engineering design approach.