1998-99 UCI General Catalogue

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND COMPUTER ENGINEERING

305 Engineering Tower; (949) 824-4821
Allen R. Stubberud, Department Chair


Undergraduate Programs

Graduate Programs

Courses


Faculty

Nicolaos Alexopoulos: High-frequency integrated circuit antennas, wireless communication, materials

Nader Bagherzadeh: Parallel processing, computer architecture

Casper W. Barnes, Jr.: Digital signal processing

Neil J. Bershad: Communication and information theory, signal processing

Lubomir Bic: Parallel processing, dataflow systems, database machines

Douglas M. Blough: Parallel processing, fault-tolerant computing

Rui J. P. de Figueiredo: Machine intelligence and neural and soft computing; signal and image processing; applied mathematics

Nikil D. Dutt: VLSI design automation tools, design methodologies, design languages, high-level synthesis

Leonard Ferrari: Machine vision, signal processing, computer graphics

Daniel D. Gajski: Parallel algorithms and architectures, design methodology, design science, CAD algorithims and tools, software/hardware co-design

Hideya Gamo: Quantum electronics, electromagnetics

Julius M. Gardin: Cardiology, echocardiography, image process and pattern recognition computer-aided diagnoses

Michael M. Green: Analog IC design, circuit simulation, theory of nonlinear circuits

Glenn E. Healey: Machine vision, computer engineering, image processing, computer graphics, intelligent machines

K. H. (Kane) Kim: Ultra-reliable distributed and parallel computing, real-time object-based system engineering

Fadi J. Kurdahi: VLSI system design, design automation of digital systems

Tomas Lang: Numerical processors and multiprocessors, parallel computer systems

Chin C. Lee: Electronic packaging, thermal management, integrated optics

Henry P. Lee: Optoelectronics semiconductor materials and devices

Guann Pyng Li: High-speed semiconductor technology, optoelectronic devices, integrated circuit fabrication and testing

Kwei-Jay Lin: Real-time systems, distributed systems

Orhan Nalcioglu: Nuclear magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy, digital radiography, computed tomography, medical imaging

Richard D. Nelson: Sensors, microelectronics, photonics, medical imaging

Alexandru Nicolau: Architecture, parallel computation, programming languages and compilers

Issac Scherson: Parallel computing architectures, massively parallel systems, parallel algorithms, interconnection networks, performance evaluation

Phillip C-Y. Sheu: Database systems, interactive multimedia systems

Roland Schinzinger: Electromagnetics, power systems, operations research

Jack Sklansky: Pattern recognition, machine vision, medical imaging, neural learning, computer engineering

Keyue M. Smedley: Power electronics

Gregory J. Sonek: Devices, electrooptics and fiber optics, biomedical applications, optoelectronic

Allen R. Stubberud: Control systems, digital signal processing, estimation and optimization

Tatsuya Suda: Computer networks, distributed systems, performance
evaluation

Harry H. Tan: Communication and information theory, stochastic processes

Chen S. Tsai: Integrated and fiber optics, devices, and materials, acoustooptics, magnetooptics, acoustic microscopy

Wei Kang (Kevin) Tsai: Data communication networks, neural networks, parallel algorithms and architectures, CAD for VLSI systems engineering

Lecturers

Syed Ahmed: Electric power systems

Harut Barsamian: Computer systems, architectural technology

Robert C. Carden, IV: C/C++, real-time system program

Maqsood Chaudhry: Field theory, numerical analysis, analog circuits

Gerard Coutu: Adaptive pattern recognition and signal processing

Alirea Kavianpour: Multi-processor systems

Mohammed S. Santina: Control systems

Michael Schroter: Bipolar semiconductor devices for integrated circuits

Electrical and Computer Engineering is a broad field encompassing such diverse subject areas as computers, control, electronics, digital systems, communications, signal processing, electromagnetics, and physics of electronic devices. Knowledge of the mathematical and natural sciences is applied to the theory, design, and implementation of devices and systems for the benefit of society.

Some electrical engineers focus on the study of behavior of electronic devices and circuits that are the basic building blocks of complex electronic systems. Others study the generation, transmission, and utilization of electrical energy. A large group of electrical engineers studies the application of these complex systems to other areas, including medicine, biology, geology, and ecology. Still another group studies the behavior of complex electronic systems such as computers, automatic controls, telecommunications, and signal processing. Of this latter group, those engaged in designing a variety of electronic computers and computer-based application systems are often called computer engineers.

The undergraduate curriculum in Electrical Engineering provides a solid foundation for future career growth, enabling graduates' careers to grow technically, administratively, or both. Many electrical engineers will begin work in a large organizational environment as members of an engineering team, obtaining career satisfaction from solving meaningful problems that contribute to the success of the organization's overall goal. As their careers mature, technical growth most naturally results from the acquisition of an advanced degree and further development of the basic thought processes instilled in the undergraduate years. Administrative growth can result from the development of management skills on the job and/or through advanced degree programs in management.

The undergraduate curriculum in Computer Engineering addresses the design and analysis of digital computers, including both software and hardware. Computer design includes topics such as computer architecture, VLSI circuits, design automation, system software, and data structures and algorithms. Computer Engineering courses include programming in high-level languages such as Pascal, C, FORTRAN; use of software packages for analysis and design; design of system software such as editors, compilers, debuggers, and operating systems; and application of computers in solving engineering problems. Laboratories in both hardware and software experiences are integrated within the curriculum.

Graduates of Computer Engineering will find a variety of career opportunities. The information technology areas include computer hardware and software design, design of computer-based control systems, application software, artificial intelligence, data storage and retrieval, graphics, pattern recognition, computer modeling, parallel computing, and operating systems.

Undergraduate Major in Computer Engineering

The undergraduate Computer Engineering curriculum includes a core of mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Engineering courses in fundamental areas fill in much of the remaining curriculum.

ADMISSIONS

High School Students: See page 152.

Transfer Students. Preference will be given to applicants with the highest grades overall, and who have satisfactorily completed the following required courses: one year of calculus, one course in general chemistry, one year of engineering physics (with laboratory), and one course in computational methods (C or C++). Courses in linear algebra, differential equations, discrete mathematics, second-year engineering physics (with laboratory), digital systems, and systems programming are required for junior academic standing, and it is recommended that these courses be completed prior to transfer. Digital systems and network analysis may be offered during summer session at UCI. Students should work closely with the UCI Office of Admissions and Relations with Schools to ensure that they are enrolled in the appropriate courses.

For further information, contact the School of Engineering Undergraduate Student Affairs Office at (949) 824-4334.

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE IN COMPUTER ENGINEERING

Credit for at least 191.5 units including:

University Requirements: See pages 54-58.

School Requirements: See page 152.

Departmental Requirements:

Mathematics Courses: Mathematics 2A-B-C, 3A, 3D, and 6A (24 units).

Basic Science Courses: Chemistry 1A, Physics 5A-B-C-D and 5LB-LC-LD, and either Physics 5E or Biological Sciences 94 (at least 28.5 units).

Basic Engineering Courses: ECE11, ECE20, ECE31, ECE31LB, ECE40, ECE70A, ECE70B, ECE70LB (27 units).

Computer Engineering Core Courses: Information and Computer Science (ICS) 23, ICS161; Engineering ECE113A, ECE113LA, ECE113B, ECE113LB, ECE120A, ECE120B, ECE132, ECE132L, ECE142, ECE145, ECE151, ECE180 or Mathematics 114A, and ECE186 (52 units).

Technical Electives: 15 units; at least three courses should be selected from the following list: ECE104, ECE137, ECE143, ECE146, ECE161, and Information and Computer Science 142. Others may be chosen from the following list: ECE115A, ECE128, ECE135A, ECE135B, ECE136, ECE199 or ECEH199 (up to 3 units). All technical electives must be approved by the faculty advisor.

No more than 6 units of ECE199 OR ECEH199 can be applied to the major in Computer Engineering.

PLANNING A PROGRAM OF STUDY

The sample program of study chart shown is typical for the major in Computer Engineering. Students should keep in mind that this program is based upon a sequence of prerequisites, beginning with adequate preparation in high school mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Students who are not adequately prepared, or who wish to make changes in the sequence for other reasons, must have their program approved by their advisor. Computer Engineering majors must consult at least once every year with the academic counselors in the Undergraduate Student Affairs Office and with their faculty advisor.

Sample Program of Study -- Computer Engineering
FALL WINTER SPRING
Freshman
Mathematics 2A Mathematics 2B Mathematics 2C
Chemistry 1A Physics 5A Physics 5B, 5LB
Breadth ECE11 ECE20
Breadth Breadth
Sophomore
Mathematics 3A Mathematics 3D ECE40
Mathematics 6A Physics 5D, 5LD ECE70B, 70LB
Physics 5C, 5LC ECE31LB Science Elective
ECE31 ECE70A Breadth
Junior
ECE113A, 113LA ECE113B, 113LB ECE120B
ECE180 or ECE120A ECE132L
Mathematics 114A ECE132 ICS161
ICS23 Breadth Breadth
Breath
Senior
ECE142 ECE145 ECE186
ECE151 Technical Elective Technical Elective
Breadth Breadth Technical Elective
Technical Elective Breadth Breadth
Students must obtain approval for their program of study and must see their faculty advisor at least once each year.

Undergraduate Major in Electrical Engineering

The undergraduate Electrical Engineering curriculum is built around a basic core of humanities, mathematics, and natural and engineering science courses. It is arranged to provide the fundamentals of synthesis and design that will enable graduates to begin careers in industry or to go on to graduate study. UCI Electrical Engineering students take courses in network analysis, electronic system design, signal processing, control systems, electromagnetics, and computer engineering. They learn to design circuits and systems to meet specific needs and to use modern computers in problem analysis and solution.

Electrical engineering majors have the opportunity to select a specialization in Electro-optics and Solid-State Devices; Power Systems; and Systems and Signal Processing. In addition to the courses offered by the Department, the major program includes selected courses from the Department of Information and Computer Science.

ADMISSIONS

High School Students: See page 152.

Transfer Students. Preference will be given to applicants with the highest grades overall, and who have satisfactorily completed the following required courses: one year of calculus, one course in general chemistry (with laboratory), one year of engineering physics (with laboratory), and one course in computational methods (C or C++). Courses in linear algebra, differential equations, second-year engineering physics (with laboratory), digital systems, dynamics, and network analysis are required for junior academic standing, and it is recommended that these courses be completed prior to transfer. Courses in digital systems, dynamics, and network analysis may be offered during the summer session at UCI. Students should work closely with the UCI Office of Admissions and Relations with Schools to ensure that they are enrolled in the appropriate courses.

For further information, contact the School of Engineering Undergraduate Student Affairs Office at (949) 824-4334.

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE BACHELOR'S DEGREE IN ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

Credit for at least 186 units including:

University Requirements: See pages 54-58.

School Requirements: See page 152.

Departmental Requirements:

Mathematics Courses: Mathematics 2A-B-C-D, 3A, and 3D (24 units).

Basic Science Courses: Chemistry 1A and 1LA, Physics 5A-B-C-D-E and 5LB-LC-LD-LE (at least 32 units).

Basic Engineering Courses: Engineering E80, E101, ECE11, ECE31, ECE31LA, ECE70A, ECE70B, and ECE70LB (23 units).

Electrical Engineering Core Courses: Engineering ECE113A, ECE113LA, ECE113B, ECE113LB, ECE113C, ECE113LC, ECE115A or ECE151, ECE120A, ECE120B, ECE140A, ECE140LA, ECE170, ECE180 or Mathematics 114A, and ECE186 (43 units).

Technical Electives: 19 units; students may select, with the approval of their faculty advisor, an area of specialization and complete the associated requirements, as shown below.

The technical electives requirement also may be fulfilled by completing courses from other science and engineering fields, with written approval of the faculty advisor.

Specialization in Electro-optics and Solid-State Devices: 11 units selected from Engineering ECE114A, ECE114B, ECE115A (if not used to satisfy major requirements), ECE176, ECE176L, ECE177, ECE177L, ECE178, ECE178L, ECE198 (Special Topics in Electro-optics or Solid State Materials/Devices), ECE199 or ECEH199 (up to 3 units).

Specialization in Power Systems: 12 units selected from Engineering ECE140B, ECE160, ECE160L, ECE163, ECE163L, ECE199 or ECEH199 (up to 3 units).

Specialization in Systems and Signal Processing: 12 units selected from Engineering ECE128, ECE135A, ECE135B, ECE136, ECE140B, ECE163, ECE163L, ECE198 (Special Topics in Computer Graphics or Digital Signal Processing Laboratory), or ECE199 or ECEH199 (up to 3 units).

Students should select their electives so that they aggregate a minimum of 26 design units. At least one of the Engineering courses taken to satisfy the graduation requirement should have more than 50 percent design content. Design unit values are indicated at the end of each course description. The faculty advisors and the Undergraduate Student Affairs Office can provide necessary guidance for satisfying the design requirements.

No more than 6 units of ECE199 or ECEH199 can be applied to the major in Electrical Engineering.

PROGRAM OF STUDY

Students must complete all required freshman and sophomore courses before they enroll in any junior or senior ECE courses.

The sample program of study chart shown is typical for the accredited major in Electrical Engineering. Students should keep in mind that this program is based upon a rigid set of prerequisites, beginning with adequate preparation in high school mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Therefore, the course sequence should not be changed except for the most compelling reasons. Students who are not adequately prepared, or who wish to make changes in the sequence for other reasons, must have their programs approved by their advisor. Electrical Engineering majors must consult with the academic counselors in the Undergraduate Student Affairs Office and with their faculty advisors at least once a year.

Sample Program of Study -- Electrical Engineering
FALL WINTER SPRING
Freshman
Mathematics 2A Mathematics 2B Mathematics 2C
Chemistry 1A, 1LA Physics 5A Physics 5B, 5LB
Breadth ECE11 Breadth
Breadth Breadth
Sophomore
Mathematics 3A Mathematics 2D E80
Physics 5C, 5LC Mathematics 3D Physics 5E, 5LE
Breadth Physics 5D, 5LD ECE70B, 70LB
ECE31, 31LA ECE70A Breadth
Junior
ECE170 E101 ECE186
ECE113A, 113LA ECE113B, 113LB ECE113C, 113LC
ECE180 or ECE120A ECE120B
Mathematics 114A Breadth Breadth
Breadth
Senior
ECE115A Technical Elective Technical Elective
ECE140A, 140LA Technical Elective Technical Elective
Technical Elective Breadth Breadth
Students must obtain approval for their program of study and must see their faculty advisor at least once each year.

Graduate Study in Electrical and Computer Engineering

The Department offers M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Electrical and Computer Engineering with concentrations in Computer Networks and Distributed Computing, Computer Systems and Software, and Electrical Engineering. The Computer Networks and Distributed Computing concentration covers design and evaluation of computer networks and distributed computer systems, and their integration into a comprehensive computing system. The Computer Systems and Software concentration covers all aspects of computer systems design, from digital VLSI to system software. The Electrical Engineering concentration includes optical and solid-state devices, and systems engineering and signals processing.

Because most graduate courses are not repeated every quarter, students should make every effort to begin their graduate program in the fall.

MASTER OF SCIENCE DEGREE GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Two plans are offered for the M.S. degree: a thesis option and a comprehensive examination option. For both options, students are required to develop and obtain approval by the Department's graduate advisor of a complete program of study. Opportunities are available for part-time study toward the M.S. degree. The program of study must be completed within four calendar years from the date of admission.

Plan I: Thesis Option

The thesis option requires completion of 36 units of study; the completion of an original research investigation; the writing of the thesis describing it; and approval of the thesis by a thesis committee. Required undergraduate courses and seminar courses such as ECE294 and ECE295 may not be counted toward the 36 units. No more than four units of ECE299 and three units of undergraduate electives may be counted.

The thesis option is available for those graduate students who might best benefit from concentration on a specific problem. A committee of three full-time faculty members is appointed to guide development of the thesis and, to approve it.

Plan II: Comprehensive Examination Option

The comprehensive examination option requires the completion of 36 units. Students must take four courses among the concentration core courses (see listings under Computer Networks and Distributed Computing, Computer Systems and Software, and Electrical Engineering concentrations) and a coherent set of courses in a specialization approved by their faculty advisor. In addition to the University's grade-point-average requirements, each of the core courses taken must be completed with a grade of B or better. Required undergraduate courses and seminar courses such as ECE294 and ECE295 may not be counted toward the 36 units. No more than three units of ECE299 and six units of undergraduate electives may be counted.

All M.S. students with the comprehensive examination option are required to enroll in ECE294 for at least two quarters.

DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY DEGREE GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

The doctoral program in Electrical and Computer Engineering is tailored to the individual needs and background of the student. There are several milestones to pass: admission to the Ph.D. program by the faculty; within one year of arrival on the campus, passage of a preliminary examination on the student's background and potential for success in the doctoral program; meeting departmental teaching requirements which can be satisfied through service as a teaching assistant or equivalent; research preparation; development of a research proposal; formal advancement to candidacy through qualifying examination conducted on behalf of the Irvine division of the Academic Senate; completion of a significant research investigation, and completion and approval of a dissertation. Four quarters of ECE294 must be completed. The degree is granted upon the recommendation of the Doctoral Committee and the Dean of Graduate Studies. Part-time study toward the Ph.D. degree is not permitted. Doctoral programs must be completed in seven calendar years from the date of admission.

The Ph.D. preliminary examination contains two parts: a depth examination administered at the end of the first year of doctoral study by faculty in the student's area of specialization; and, preceding it, a breadth examination consisting of the Graduate Record Examination Subject Test in one of several areas (see listings under Computer Engineering and Electrical Engineering concentrations). The results of the Subject Test must be made available to the faculty prior to the end of the winter quarter of the student's first year of study in the doctoral program. The Ph.D. preliminary examination may be repeated once.

COMPUTER NETWORKS AND DISTRIBUTED COMPUTING CONCENTRATION

The concentration in Computer Networks and Distributed Computing is concerned with the design and evaluation of computer networks and distributed computer systems, and their integration into a comprehensive computing system. Both hardware and software aspects of these systems are covered. Specific topics include computer communication protocols; performance modeling and analysis of computer networks; computer network hardware; reliability, security, and fault tolerance in computer networks and distribution computer systems; distributed operating systems; distributed software architectures, distributed data bases, network-based parallel computing, and programming languages for parallel/distributed processing. Related topics are addressed within the Computer Systems and Networks concentration in the Department of Information and Computer Science (ICS).

Master of Science Degree

Plan I: Thesis Option

A total of 36 units, including the core and concentration course requirements are required. At most, 12 units of ECE296 (M.S. Thesis Research) may be counted toward the degree.

Plan II: Comprehensive Examination Option

The comprehensive examination option requires the completion of 36 units. A minimum of seven Computer Networks and Distributed Computing concentration courses are required. Four of these courses must be the core courses; the other three may be chosen from the concentration courses. The remainder of the 36 units must consist of relevant courses listed below.

Doctor of Philosophy Degree

A GRE subject test in Computer Science or Mathematics is required as a component of the Ph.D. preliminary examination. A public Ph.D. dissertation defense must be given.

Relevant Courses

Core/concentration courses are indicated by an asterisk (*) and concentration courses by a plus (+) following the course number: ECE229A+, ECE229B+, ECE231*, ECE233*, ECE235*, ECE252*, ECE253, ECE254, ECE255+, ECE257, ECE281A, ECE281B+, ICS 244, ICS 248.

COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND SOFTWARE CONCENTRATION

The Computer Systems and Software Concentration is concerned with the set of engineering principles which are used for design and construction of information-processing systems and software. The engineering design procedures are based on both the computational principles and theories discovered in the field of computer science and new highly integrated component devices made by electrical engineers. The main research activities of the faculty of this concentration are in the areas of fault-tolerant computing, parallel and distributed computer systems, ultra-reliable real-time computer systems, VLSI architectures, computer design automation, numerical processing, and intelligent management.

In addition to the general department requirements, the following requirements must be met.

Master of Science Degree

Plan I: Thesis Option

Four out of five Computer Engineering core courses must be completed with a grade of B or better. Three additional Computer Engineering concentration courses must be completed. With approval of the thesis advisor and the Department's graduate advisor, two of these courses may be non-seminar, non-research graduate courses outside of the Computer Engineering concentration list. These courses must be related to the student's thesis topic. No more than 12 units of ECE296 (M.S. Thesis Research) may be counted toward the degree. Two quarters of ECE294 must be completed.

Plan II: Comprehensive Examination Option

A minimum of seven Computer Engineering concentration courses of which four are core courses must be completed. A minimum of three additional non-seminar, non-research graduate courses are required.

Doctor of Philosophy Degree

A GRE Subject Test in Mathematics or Computer Science is required for the breadth portion of the preliminary examination. A public Ph.D. dissertation defense must be given.

Concentration Courses

Core courses are indicated by an asterisk (*) following the course number: ECE207, ECE231*, ECE233*, ECE235*, ECE251*, ECE252*, ECE253, ECE254, ECE257, and ECE258.

ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING CONCENTRATION

The Electrical Engineering faculty study the following areas: optical and solid-state devices, including quantum electronics and optics, integrated electro-optics and acoustics, design of semiconductor devices and materials, and scanning acoustic microscopy; and systems engineering and signal processing, including machine vision, signal processing, power systems, neural networks, communications networks, systems engineering, control systems, and manufacturing systems.

In addition to the general departmental requirements, the following requirements must be met.

Master of Science Degree

Plan I: Thesis Option

A minimum of seven Electrical Engineering concentration courses must be completed. No more than eight of the required 36 units may be from ECE296 (M.S. Thesis Research).

Plan II: Comprehensive Examination Option

A minimum of nine Electrical Engineering concentration courses of which four are core courses must be completed.

Doctor of Philosophy Degree

A GRE Subject Test in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or Engineering is required for the breadth portion of the preliminary examination.

Concentration Courses

Core courses are indicated by an asterisk (*) following the course number: ECE206, ECE207, ECE210A-B, ECE212, ECE217A-B, ECE227A-B, ECE228A-B, ECE229A-B, ECE230A, ECE233*, ECE234A-B, ECE235*, ECE240A*-B-C, ECE242, ECE251, ECE260, ECE275A*-B-C, ECE279A*-B, ECE281A, ECE281B, and ECE287A*.

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