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Johns Hopkins University | EN.520.372

Programmable Device Lab

3.0

credits

Average Course Rating

(4.13)

The use of programmable memories (ROMs, EPROMs, and EEPROMs) as circuit elements (as opposed to storage of computer instructions) is covered, along with programmable logic devices (PALs and GALs). These parts permit condensing dozens of standard logic packages (TTL logic) into one or more off-the-shelf components. Students design and build circuits using these devices with the assistance of CAD software. Topics include programming EEPROMs; using PLDs as address decoders; synchronous sequential logic synthesis for PLDs; and PLD-based state machines. Recommended Course Background: EN.520.142 and EN.520.345

Spring 2013

(4.27)

Spring 2014

(4.27)

Spring 2015

(3.85)

Spring 2013

Professor: Robert Glaser

(4.27)

The best aspects of this course included the interesting assignments and the hands-on lab experience. One student felt they should not have been using outdated chips/technology. Another student felt the instructor covered the material too fast. Suggestions included providing more detailed supplemental material and offering more office hours. Prospective students are encouraged to pay attention to the lectures, and study as much, and as often as possible.

Spring 2014

Professor: Robert Glaser

(4.27)

This course allowed students to study multiple types of programmable logic and the labs allowed them to put their learning to the test. The professor was also attentive and gave feedback to his students so they could debug, learn from the experience, and move on. However, the lab reports were tedious to write because of the specificity required, the technology use was outdated, and labs lasted for a long time. It was suggested that modern technology be discussed, better assessments given, more focused lectures, and more requirements added to the grading criteria. Prospective students should be able to take time to write thorough lab reports.

Spring 2015

Professor: Robert Glaser

(3.85)

The best aspects of this course included the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of digital logic and to gain strong foundational skil s. Students found lab reports to be time consuming and tedious. Lectures were hard to follow and understand and expectations were unclear as there was no rubric for assignments. Suggestions for improvement included having a working rubric for lab reports. Prospective students should be prepared to dedicate a significant amount of time to lab reports. Prospective students are encouraged to take this course to apply theory, gain a solid foundation in