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Electronics Engineer
Electronics engineering is concerned with the generation, transmission and processing of information and includes computers, software, transmission networks, telephones, radio, television, signal processing and optics.
They design, develop, test and maintain electronic parts and systems for application in the fields of automation, communication, navigation, military arms, data processing and entertainment. Some manage manufacturing processes, while others may be responsible for the marketing of products.
Some examples of applications of electronics engineering are as follows:
- infrared cameras to "see" in the dark, an example of obtaining information. Phenomena that cannot be observed by human beings are transformed by electronics technology to observable phenomena
- computers to solve complicated problems and to assimilate signals, an example of the assimilation of information
- electronic systems involving the control of mechanical and chemical processes, an example of the control of information
- communications, such as international telephone conversations and videophones, an example of the transference of information
- mass media, such as radio and television, an example of the distribution of information
- power electronics for the control of power generation equipment
- control of processes and production lines using remote control and data acquisition systems (SCADA, etc.)
Some areas of specialization include:
Biomedical Engineers apply engineering methods to solve medical and other life science problems
Computer Engineers design computers and associated equipment, including microelectronics, which involves the design, testing and manufacture of microchips
Mechatronic Engineers design and maintain machinery with electronic and computer control systems
Telecommunication Engineers design and maintain telecommunications equipment such as optic cables, microwave techniques, cellular radio, satellite communications, etc.
Computer Systems Engineers design and manufacture circuit boards used for interfacing computers to other equipment and sometimes write software for controlling computer operations, etc.
Electronics engineers may design, prepare and supervise designs, prepare specifications, estimates, tenders and contracts. Some are involved in establishing and monitoring performance, setting safety standards and specifying methods for modification, maintenance and repair of equipment and systems. Others may examine installations to ensure that they meet contract conditions.
They are likely to liaise with clients, other engineers, technical officers, technicians, trades people and other workers. Modern management abilities are important. Electronics engineers need to be able to participate in planning, organization and the control of proceedings.
Satisfying Aspects
- many areas to choose from, thus working in your field of interest
- variety and challenge of the work
- solving problems
- good salaries
- opportunity to be creative
Demanding aspects
- having to keep up with the latest developments
- working long hours to complete a project
- the long period of preparation and study required to register as a professional electronics engineer
Requirements
An electronics engineer should be/have:
- independent thinker, able to visualize abstract concepts
- strong creative ability, with imagination and vision
- innovation, inventiveness and ingenuity
- above-average intelligence
- keenness to learn, combined with logical reasoning
- good problem-solving skills
- aptitude for and enjoyment of Mathematics and Science
- capable of working independently and as part of a team
- inquiring and analytical mind
- able to manage and organize projects
- able to work under pressure
- perseverance and motivated to achieve
School Subjects
National Senior Certificate meeting degree requirements for a degree course
Each institution will have its own minimum entry requirements.
Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Sciences
Recommended Subjects: Information Technology, Engineering and Technology
Note: The Engineering Faculties of some universities offer support programmes to help students to become self-sufficient and capable of completing the very demanding engineering course. The programmes are aimed at students from communities which lack proper education facilities. Only students with good grades would be considered.
Training
Degree: The 4-year BEng / BSc degree in Electronic Engineering can be followed at UP, UKZN, US, UJ and NWU. Theoretical lectures are supplemented by tutorial classes and practical sessions that mostly take place in the laboratory.
Diploma: The 3-year N.Dip. Electronic Engineering can be obtained at a university of technology, e.g. CUT, DUT and VUT. These universities of technology now offer a degree in Engineering in collaboration with universities. The course is a minimum of 4 years’ study.
TVET College: A National Diploma in Engineering can be followed at the majority of TVET Colleges.
For electronic engineering technicians and technologists, see Engineering Technicians and Technologists.
Employer
- such organisations as Eskom, SABS, CSIR, Telkom, Transnet, Denel, Kentron, Portnet, Metro Rail, SABC and Sasol
- manufacturers
- government departments
- electronics companies
- universities and universities of technology
- private electronic engineering consultation firms and development laboratories
- large and small private companies involved with the design, development, production and marketing of electronic systems, sub-systems and components of products
- self-employment, with enough experience and initiative, can work as a consultant or start own manufacturing or engineering company
Contact
Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA)
Private Bag X 691
Bruma, 2026
Tel: (011) 607-9500 Fax: (011) 622-9295
E-mail: engineer@ecsa.co.za
www.ecsa.co.za
South African Institute of Electrical Engineers
P O Box 751253
Gardenview, 2047
Tel: (011) 487-3003 Fax: (011) 487-3002
www.saiee.org.za
Electrical Contractors Association of SA
P O Box 9683
Edenglen, 1613
Tel: 392-0000 Fax: (031) 312-0851
www.ecasa.co.za