As digitalization is becoming ubiquitous, technical innovations such as the industry 4.0, cloud working, or self-driving cars are gaining importance as well. The department of electronics and computer technology educates students in these future-oriented sectors to prepare them for the challenges of today’s working world.
Our students learn how to develop efficient software, design the necessary hardware for electronic circuits and manage computer networks in order to obtain guaranteed electronic systems skills that are useful in daily life.
By allowing the students to choose from a variety of modules such as the internet of things, robotics and autonomous vehicles, web computing, mobile applications or IT security, the pupils can focus on the field that interests them most.
Developing software
Modern electronic systems need state-of-the–art software. In the school subjects technical software engineering and digital systems and computer systems the basics for programming are taught. The focus is on C-programming, Java, C++, operating systems, web-applications, app-programming for android, programming of Linux as well as of databases. Moreover, topics such as audio- and image processing are covered. The Cortex M3, a self-constructed micro-computer, and the Rasperry Pi are implemented in many projects.
Designing hardware
Sensors are almost ubiquitous these days; they are not only embedded in self-driving cars but also in devices we use on a daily basis like smartphones. The basis of modern hardware design is laid in the school subjects hardware development as well as measurement technology and control systems. Our students learn while designing embedded systems, small, hidden microcomputer systems, in the school subject digital systems and computer systems. This knowledge gives our students a starting advantage for their future job.
Managing computer networks
The foundation of computer networks is taught in the school subject communication systems and communication networks. An important aspect of IT security is about knowing how to manage a network professionally and how to protect it from being hacked. Apart from that students learn about wireless systems of smartphones and Wi-Fi networks.
Prototype construction of electronic systems
In the various workshops students work in small groups on building, measuring, and testing electronic devices. For example, ELLFi, a small gadget that follows the light is manufactured in the first year. ELLFi is further developed in the second year to allow it to follow lines. In the third year this small device is equipped with sensors, interfaces, and microcomputer systems which further advance it to become a self-driving robot.
Our graduates are sought – after in companies of all sizes not only in Austria, but throughout the world. They are employed in all organizational levels in the fields of digitalization and industry 4.0. Other common sectors of employment are informatics, communication technology, automobile electronics and automation technology. They mainly work on hardware as well as software development, computer and network support or the technical and the commercial sector.