Introduction to Semiconductor Devices

Microcredential 1. Introduction to Semiconductor Devices (Foundational)

Delivery: Fully Online

In this foundational microcredential, learners will explore the evolution of the semiconductor industry and the processes that enable the development of modern digital and smart electronics. Think of all the electronics you use daily — your phone, TV, laptop, microwave, automatic dish washer, automatic laundry unit, thermostat controlling temperature, car cruise control. Inside all of these, there are tiny parts called semiconductor devices. These are like the brains and switches that control the electricity flow to make the device work.

In addition to the $5 instruction fee, A small project will require students to build a small circuit (many can be built with items a student may have at their home, however, if those items are not available at home, a kit or items may need to be purchased -estimated cost - $10).

Learning Outcomes:

• • Explain the history and evolution of the semiconductor devices – Vacuum tubes to transistors.
• • Explain the differences between conductor, insulator and semiconductor.
• • Explain the crystal lattice structure of P and N type layer.
• • Describe the working principle of basic semiconductor devices – Diodes – PN Junction, Zener, LED*, Transistors* – BJT, JFET, MOSFET, CMOSFET, FinFET, GAAFET.
• • Describe the characteristics and applications of basic semiconductor devices – Diodes – PN Junction, Zener, LED*, Transistors* – BJT, JFET, MOSFET, FinFET, GAAFET.
• • Assemble a small circuit. * LED – Light Emitting Diode; BJT – Bipolar Junction Transistor; JFET – Junction Field Effect Transistor; MOSFET – Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor; CMOSFET – Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor; FinFET - Fin Field Effect Transistor; Gate All Around Field Effect Transistor 

Prerequisite: None.

In this course, students will demonstrate learning by completing online quizzes, as well as a project where they will assemble a small circuit, and submit a recording for review and feedback.