vcc.ca
ELCO 1220: Electronic Devices
Effective date
January 2026
Department
Construction Elec Foundation
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
In this course, students will learn about the "magic" of semiconductor materials, diodes, LEDs, and transistors, find out how Silicon Valley utilized these semiconductor materials to bring us into the computer age, and solve problems involving diodes and transistors. Learners will analyze electronic components and circuits.
Credits
2.0
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Describe the characteristics of semiconductor materials.
- Describe the features of PN (positive-negative) and Zener diodes, Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), and bipolar junction transistors.
- Solve problems involving diodes and transistors.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
Methods of assessment may include a challenge exam, submission of a product or portfolio for review, or a practical demonstration. Please contact the Department for details.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 15
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 10
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 10
Total Hours: 35
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 10
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 10
Total Hours: 35
Instructional Strategies
A combination of lecture, demonstration, simulations, problem solving, practical lab activities and reflective discussion will be used throughout this course.
Grading System
Percentages-STBC
Passing grade
70
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Participation |
10 |
|
|
Assignments |
30 |
|
|
Quizzes/Tests |
20 |
|
|
Final Exam |
20 |
|
|
Lab Work |
20 |
|
Course topics
- Semiconductor materials and their characteristics
- PN (positive-negative) junction diodes
- Zener diodes and their applications
- Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
- Bipolar junction transistors (BJTs)
- Electronic circuit analysis and problem-solving
- Practical applications of semiconductor devices
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.