Faculty Syllabus
CETT-1429 Solid State Devices
Marcel Lopez
Credit Spring 2026
Section(s)
CETT-1429-002 (34626)
LEC MW 9:00am - 10:20am RRC RRC2 2209.00
LAB MW 10:20am - 11:40am RRC RRC2 2209.00
Course Requirements
Basic Math skills required: Add, subtract, multiple, divide, fractions, decimals, percentages, use of formulas, algebra, and word problems.
Complex numbers, basic trigonometric identities.
Knowledge of DC and AC circuits.
Use of a scientific calculator. CETT 1429 Solid State Devices 2
Use of the internet and internet-based tools Knowledge of MS Word, Power Point and Excel or similar applications
Readings
Electronic Devices (9th or 10th Edition) by Thomas L. Floyd, ISBN 9780132549868
How Semiconductors Work: A non-technical, high-level overview of silicon, doping, and how diodes and transistors are created from simple materials.
Khan Academy - Semiconductor Devices: Ideal for a step-by-step introduction to diode models and basic semiconductor behavior.
Course Subjects
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Introduction to Electronics
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Diodes and Applications
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Special Purpose Diodes
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Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJTs)
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Transistor Biasing Circuits
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BJT Amplifier
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Power Amplifiers
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Field Effect Transistors (FETs)
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FET Amplifiers and Switching Circuits
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Amplifier Frequency Response
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Thyristors
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Operational Amplifiers The course topics schedule will be posted and updated on Blackboard.
Student Learning Outcomes/Learning Objectives
Course Description
A study of diodes, transistor characteristics and other semiconductor devices, including analysis of static and dynamic characteristics, biasing techniques, and thermal considerations. Upon completing the course, the student should have basic knowledge of semiconductor devices and fundamental circuit applications. The course covers a study of diodes and transistor characteristics and other semiconductor devices, including analysis of static and dynamic characteristics, biasing techniques, and thermal considerations. It also includes an understanding of the basic operation of amplifier circuits and diode applications. In addition, the students will construct circuits to test and troubleshoot various solid-state devices and they will be able to use basic test equipment including Oscilloscopes, Digital Multimeters, Function Generators and Variable Power Supplies.
Student Knowledge and Experience Assumptions:
Basic Math skills required: Add, subtract, multiple, divide, fractions, decimals, percentages, use of formulas, algebra, and word problems. Complex numbers, basic trigonometric identities. Knowledge of DC and AC circuits. Use of a scientific calculator. CETT 1429 Solid State Devices 2 Use of the internet and internet-based tools Knowledge of MS Word, Power Point and Excel or similar applications
Course Rationale
This course follows the requirements of the Texas Workforce Education Couse Manual (WECM) for consistency with other Texas institutions of higher education in the specific fields of Electronics and Computer Engineering Technology. This course is an introduction to the basic theory and concepts of diode and transistor characteristics and other semiconductor devices, including analysis of static and dynamic characteristics, biasing techniques, and thermal considerations.
Course Objectives
The student will operate test equipment; identify various sources of electricity in electronic circuits and systems; analyze electronic circuits using applicable mathematical formulas; and troubleshoot various typical circuits using schematic diagrams. Analyze various solid-state circuits, sub-systems, and systems. Construct circuits to test; and troubleshoot various semiconductor devices and circuits. Utilize DC and AC instruments to test and diagnose semiconductor circuits. Demonstrate knowledge of test and measurement theory. Course Level Learning Outcomes
1. Analyze and troubleshoot DC and AC circuits (prerequisites).
2. Describe semiconductor devices, their fabrications, and fundamental circuit applications.
3. Understand and describe functionality of diodes, transistor, thyristors, and other special purpose semiconductor devices.
4. Describe and analyze various diode-based circuits, including rectifiers.
5. Describe and apply the static and dynamic characteristics, biasing techniques, and thermal considerations of various types of semiconductor devices and circuits.
6. Describe the operation of diodes, BJTs, JFETs, FETs, CMOS, and thyristors devices and circuits, including other special types of semiconductor devices.
7. Describe and analyze various types of JFET and FET based power amplifiers. CETT 1429 Solid State Devices 3
8. Understand the basic operation of amplifier circuits and transistor, thyristors, and diode applications, including switching and digital circuits.
9. Describe the operation of various types of operational amplifiers.
10. Analyze various types of operational amplifiers, including their frequency response.
11. Construct circuits to test and troubleshoot various solid-state devices.
12. Interpret, analyze, and categorize measured electrical data.
13. Apply safety techniques while working on and troubleshooting various circuits and components.
14. Operate computers, test equipment, and application software.
15. Interpret characteristics of voltage, current, impedance, and power in electronic circuits.
16. Use basic test equipment including Digital Storage Oscilloscopes, Digital Multimeters, Function Generators and Variable Power Supplies.
Course Topics Overview:
Introduction to Electronics
Diodes and Applications
Special Purpose Diodes
Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJTs)
Transistor Biasing Circuits
BJT Amplifier Power Amplifiers
Field Effect Transistors (FETs)
FET Amplifiers and Switching Circuits
Amplifier Frequency Response
Thyristors
Operational Amplifiers The course topics schedule will be posted and updated on Blackboard.
Instructional Methodology:
The methods of instruction include hands-on training as well as classroom instruction. Laboratory exercises will be performed during class time.
Classroom instruction will consist of interactive lectures, class discussions, exercises, PowerPoint presentations, and video illustrations. It will be based on the assumption that you have done the reading assignments before class.
Homework will consist of any combinations of reading assignments, problem sets, quizzes, and video lectures/demonstrations. Homework assignments are posted in Blackboard as Test assignments. Once completed, it should be submitted in Blackboard to be graded. All tests and homework assignments are submitted in Blackboard and graded accordingly.
Laboratory Exercises and Reports:
During the laboratory exercise itself, students may assist each other or work in groups of 2-3. Once the lab is completed and the data has been captured, it is expected of each student to writeup their own lab, if required by the instructor. A laboratory report template on Blackboard describes the write up format that is to be followed. Make sure that each question listed in the lab hand out is addressed in the write-up. The instructor reserves the right to return incomplete work for resubmission
The Discipline Assessment Cycle
The Discipline Assessment Cycle (DAC) is the process whereby Austin Community College documents the extent to which students have attained the learning outcomes and objectives set before them. It pulls together information at the course- and program-level, with data regarding general education and, where relevant the skills associated with the Secretary’s Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills (SCANS). The framework of the DAC is designed to promote meaningful assessment, while simultaneously providing a single repository for assessment information from across the institution. The data gathered serves to provide documentation to outside accrediting bodies, such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools - Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC) or discipline-specific accreditors. This provides an assessment of the Program-Level Student Learning Outcomes (PSLOs), General Education Competencies, Snapshot data, and the Course-Level Student Learning Outcomes (CSLOs); The DAC project is mandatory for all students and the data is gathered and submitted to the department chairperson for further consolidation and distribution. For further information, please visit http://www.austincc.edu/offices/academic-outcomesassessment/discipline-assessment-cycle
Grading System
Exams/Tests 60%
Lab Exercises/Reports 15%
Quizzes/Homework 15% .
Course Project 10%
DAC Test 0%
A: 90-100
B: 80-89
C: 70-79
D: 60-69
F: Below 60
Course Class Calendar Important Dates:
Classes Begin: Jan 20 MLK Jr.
Day: Jan 19 Spring Break:
Mar 16-20 Withdrawal deadline:
Apr 27 Classes End:
May 17 Course project presentations: May 13
Course Tentative Schedule:
Week 1 Chapter 1 – Introduction
Week 2 Chapter 2 - Diodes; Lab 1, Lab 2
Week 3 Chapter 3 – Special Purpose Diodes; Lab 3
Week 4 Review and Exam 1 – Chapters 1, 2 and 3
Week 5 Chapter 4 – BJTs; Lab 4
Week 6 Chapter 5 – Transistor Bias Circuits; Lab 5
Week 7 Chapter 6 – BJT Amplifiers; Lab 6
Week 8 Review and Exam 2 – Chapters 4, 5 and 6
Week 9 Chapter 7 – Power Amplifiers; Lab 7
Week 10 Chapter 8 – FETs; Lab 8
Week 11 Chapter 9 – FET Amplifiers; Lab 9
Week 12 Review and Exam 3 – Chapters 7, 8 and 9
Week 13 Chapter 10 – Amplifier Frequency Response; Lab 10
Week 14 Chapter 11 – Thyristors, Chapter 12 – Op Amps
Week 15 Chapter 12 Continued; Review Exam 4
Week 16 Exam 4 – Chapters 10, 11 and 12; Class Project Presentations
Tentative Laboratory Exercises:
Week 2 Lab #1 - Basic diode operation
Week 3 Lab #2 - Half-wave rectifier circuits
Week 4 Lab #3 - Full-wave rectifier circuits
Week 5 Lab #4 - Special purpose diodes
Week 6 Lab #5 - BJT characteristics and biasing circuits
Week 7 Lab #6 - BJT amplifiers
Week 9 Lab #7 - Power amplifier circuits
Week 10 Lab #8 - FET characteristics
Week 11 Lab #9 - FET amplifiers
Week 13 Lab #10 - Amplifier frequency response
Quizzes/Exams:
Quizzes and Exams may include material from any classroom activities. There are no make-ups without a note from a doctor or other relevant documentation. The decision to allow makeup is at the discretion of the instructor. Quizzes will be given and will count towards your grade with the weight of a homework assignment. The final exam must be taken when scheduled and it is comprehensive. All tests and homework assignments are submitted in Blackboard and graded accordingly.
COURSE POLICIES
Attendance/Class Participation Attendance and punctuality are expected and are considered when determining the final grade for this course. You cannot develop the proficiency required for this course just studying the textbook. Lectures may include material not covered in the textbook. Attendance is very crucial and may make the difference between successfully completing this class or not. All students are expected to attend every class and to be punctual. If more than three unexcused absences or unsatisfactory compliance with other course policies, the instructor may withdraw students from the class. At my discretion, I may withdraw students who have three or more unexcused absences. If you cannot attend a particular class session, please discuss the conflict with me in advance (in person, via phone or email). Reference: http://www2.austin.cc.tx.us./admrule/4.01.002.htm Withdrawal Policy If circumstances arise such that you cannot complete this course, it is to your advantage to drop the class by the deadline to avoid getting an unsatisfactory grade on your permanent school record. Students or instructors may initiate withdrawals anytime during the semester before the official withdrawal deadline. Please note that the state of Texas limits students to a maximum lifetime count of six (6) withdrawals. Students may be withdrawn from the course by the instructor for non-attendance. However, it is ultimately the responsibility of the student to initiate the withdrawal process if they are unable to attend or complete their coursework as required. Failure to withdraw by the established deadline will result in a grade of A, B, C, D, or F, based on the students recorded performance in the course. Withdrawal forms are available from campus Admissions and Records offices. Courses from which you withdraw will appear on your record as a grade of W. Reference: http://www2.austin.cc.tx.us./admrule/1.06.003.htm The last day to withdraw is April 27, 2026 Class Interaction: Dialogue is a plus. Questions are best asked when thought of. Do not wait until after class to ask a question. Missed Exam and Late Work Policies: If a student is absent all work due on the date of absence must be provided at the beginning of the next class session. The student should contact the instructor to receive assignments due on the date they return and have them completed when they return. Missed labs cannot be made up and will receive a grade of zero. Late work, not due to absence, will not be accepted and will receive a grade of zero.
Blackboard and Grade Center:
Blackboard has a facility called Grade Center. All the student’s information and aggregate grades for this course are stored there and are readily retrievable. Since Blackboard administers many of the homework and laboratory exercises assignments, the grades from those assignments will be immediately posted to Grade Center upon completion. Homework assignments are completed and submitted in Blackboard as Test assignments. Laboratory Reports are also submitted in Blackboard as a pdf file. Housekeeping: All tools and lab supplies must be returned to their appropriate location. Please keep chairs and tables where they belong. Return all equipment, tools, etc. back where they belong. Please do not move, remove, swap, or replace any equipment. If you suspect any equipment to be faulty, please bring it to your instructor’s attention. Incompletes A student may receive a temporary grade of I (incomplete) at the end of the semester only if the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The student is unable to complete the course during the semester due to circumstances beyond their control. 2. The student must have earned at least half of the grade points needed to earn at least a C by the end of the semester. 3. Arrangement for an incomplete must be made with the instructor. A Report of Incomplete Grade form must be completed by the instructor and filed with the Program Coordinator. To convert the incomplete I into a grade, the student must submit for grading all work required to complete the course to the instructor by a date specified by the instructor within the next immediately following semester, but absolutely no later than 2 weeks prior to the end of the semester. Incompletes not completed by the date specified automatically become a letter grade of F for the course. Scholastic Dishonesty Acts prohibited by the College for which discipline may be administered include scholastic dishonesty, including but not limited to cheating on an exam or quiz, plagiarizing, and unauthorized collaboration with another in preparing outside work. Academic work submitted by students shall be the result of their thought, research or self-expression. Academic work is defined as, but not limited to tests or quizzes, whether taken electronically or on paper, projects, either individual or group, classroom presentations, and homework. The penalty for any violation of this policy is withdrawal from the course. Cases of suspected cheating or plagiarism will be reported directly to the Program Coordinators office. College policies will be strictly followed regarding the investigation of suspected cases and punishments if warranted. If you are unsure about the line between collaboration and cheating, feel free to talk to me before it is too late.
Student Rights & Responsibilities
Students at ACC have the same rights and protections under the Constitution of the United States. These rights include freedom of speech, peaceful assembly, petition and association. As members of the community, students have the right to express their own views, but must also take responsibility for according the same rights to others and not interfere or disrupt the learning environment. Students are entitled to fair treatment, are expected to act consistently with the values of the college, and obey local, state and federal laws. www.austincc.edu/srr As a student of Austin Community College, you are expected to abide by the Student Standards of Conduct. https://www.austincc.edu/students/students-rights-andresponsibilities/student-standards-of-conduct Senate Bill 212 and Title IX Reporting Requirements. Under Senate Bill 212 (SB 212), the faculty and all College employees are required to report any information concerning incidents of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking committed by or against an ACC student or employee. Federal Title IX law and College policy also require reporting incidents of sex- and gender-based discrimination and sexual misconduct. This means faculty and non-counseling staff cannot keep confidential information about any such incidents that you share with them. If you would like to talk with someone confidentiality, please contact the District Clinical Counseling Team who can connect you with a clinical counselor on any ACC campus: (512) 223-2616, or to schedule online: https://www.austincc.edu/students/counseling . While students are not required to report, they are encouraged to contact the Compliance Office for resources and options: Charlene Buckley, District Title IX Officer, (512) 223-7964; compliance@austincc.edu . If a student makes a report to a faculty member, the faculty member will contact the District Title IX Officer for follow-up. Student Discipline ACC's policy on student discipline can be found under Policies and Procedures at http://www.austincc.edu/current/needtoknow/ Each student is strongly encouraged to participate in class. In any classroom situation that includes discussion and critical thinking, there are bound to be many differing viewpoints. These differences enhance the learning experience and create an atmosphere where students and instructors alike will be encouraged to think and learn. On sensitive and volatile topics, students may sometimes disagree not only with each other but also with the instructor. It is expected that faculty and students will respect the views of others when expressed in classroom discussions. Classroom behavior should support and enhance learning. Behavior that disrupts the learning process will be dealt with appropriately, which may include having the student leave class for the rest of that day. If there are any observed potential or actual academic or behavioral difficulties, the student may be referred to ACC Support Services or the Dean of Students.
In serious cases, disruptive behavior may lead to a student being withdrawn from the class. ACC's policy on student discipline can be found in the Student Handbook, p. 32. Classroom Conduct Cellular phones and pagers are disruptive to the class and must be turned off or made inaudible during lecture. Any iPod / MP3 devices must be turned off during class. No texting is allowed during class. Interpersonal skills are critical to both working with peers and leading others. It is expected that you will be respectful of the opinions and property of others, be aware of and responsive to the effect of ones behavior on others; and, work with others to resolve problems. You are encouraged to work together on lab exercises as collaboration and teamwork are important skills to learn. Working on these exercises, as well as studying together for exams, are good opportunities to develop the ability to collaborate. Ensuring that others within a group pull their weight is also a skill to be learned. However, exams, quizzes, laboratory write-ups, and homework assignments are strictly the individual’s responsibility. Food and Beverages Other than sealable bottles of water, no other food and beverage items are allowed in the classroom and laboratory areas. Dress Code During lab, students are always required to wear close toed shoes. If you show up to lab in flip‐flops or any open‐toed footwear you will be asked to leave and you will be considered absent for that lab.
Personal Support
Resources to support students are available at every campus. To learn more, ask your professor or visit the campus Support Center. All resources and services are free and confidential. Some examples include, among others: Food pantries are located in all campus Student Life offices: https://sites.austincc.edu/sl/programs/foodpantry/. Assistance with childcare or utility bills is available at any campus Support Center: http://www.austincc.edu/students/support-center.
The Student Emergency Fund can help with unexpected expenses that may cause you to withdraw from one or more classes: http://www.austincc.edu/SEF.
Help with budgeting for college and family life is available through the Student Money Management Office: http://sites.austincc.edu/money/.
Drop-in child care is available at Highland Campus: http://www.austincc.edu/students/child-care/child-watch-drop-in-center
Clinical Counseling services are available throughout the ACC Student Services District to address personal and or mental health concerns: http://www.austincc.edu/students/counseling . If an emergency occurs during operational hours, please come to the Student Services Office and let the front intake staff know that you are experiencing a crisis. They will alert appropriate personnel. You may also contact the ACC District Police at 222 (on campus) or 223-7999 (off campus or cell phone).
After Hours: If you are struggling with a mental health or personal crisis, call one of the following numbers to connect with resources for help. However, if you are afraid that you might hurt yourself or someone else, call 911 immediately.
Free Crisis Hotline Numbers:
Austin / Travis County 24-hour Crisis & Suicide hotline: 512-472-HELP (4357)
The Williamson County 24-hour Crisis hotline: 1-800-841-1255
Bastrop County Family Crisis Center hotline: 1-888-311-7755
Hays County 24 Hour Crisis Hotline: 1-877-466-0660
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Crisis Text Line: Text “home” to 741741 o Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline:1-800-950-NAM
Artificial Intelligence Policy for the Departments of Engineering Technology and Advanced Manufacturing
1. Introduction: The use of generative AI (GAI) is permitted in this course under certain
conditions and with instructor approval for the purposes of enhancing learning while
maintaining academic integrity.
2. Rationale: GAI is permitted to foster technological fluency and to leverage advanced
tools for research, projects and other relevant assignments, as long as it does not
substitute for the students’ original work, critical thinking and learning.
3. Definition of GAI: Generative AI encompasses technologies that create content through
learned patterns and data without direct human input.
4. Usage Permissions: Permitted: GAI can be used for initial research, idea generation,
and learning coding practices. It is not to be used for final submissions unless explicitly
cited and discussed. Students should check with their instructors for approval before
using AI in their assignments.
5. Resources: The ACC Library provides guidance on the ethical and effective use of GAI .
Additional resources may be provided by your instructor.
6. Assessment: Contributions of GAI must be clearly cited and will be assessed on the
student’s ability to critically analyze and integrate the AI-generated content.
7. Penalties: Misuse of GAI, including a failure to cite, will be considered a breach of
academic integrity, with consequences including a failing grade for the assignment and
academic review.
8. Exceptions: Should the technology be required as an accommodation, exceptions will be
made on a case-by-case basis.
STUDENT ADVISING ADDENDUM (Last Update 1/07/2026)
Engineering Technology & Advanced Manufacturing Students who are seeking a degree
or certificate should visit with their assigned Area-Of-Study advisor. To find out who
your assigned advisor is, go to Find My Advisor and follow the steps using MyACC. If
you have not been assigned an advisor, then please visit the Advising Office on your
campus or fill out the Contact ACC Advising form and someone will get back to you.
For online advising, please go to the following site:
https://students.austincc.edu/advising/online-advising/
High School students taking classes in dual enrollment or as part of an academy or
institute will have different advisors and counselors assigned to them. For help
finding advising support for High School students, contact the ACC Office of College
& High School Relations.
All students are expected to check their ACC gmail regularly throughout the semester.
We will be sending pertinent information about scholarships, the course schedule, job &
internship opportunities, Microsoft Azure free student software program, career fairs,
special events, and etc. Your instructor will communicate with you through Blackboard
Announcement and Email.
COLLEGE POLICIES and STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
Beginning with the Spring Semester of 2023 the sections on College Policies and Student Support
Services no longer needs to be included as part of the documented syllabus. Instead this information is
found via a direct link in the Blackboard course or by accessing the information directly via the ACC
web page at the following hyperlink or the listed QR code below:
https://www.austincc.edu/offices/academic-outcomes-assessment/master-syllabi/college-policies
Office Hours
M W 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM RRC 2209.0
NOTE By appointment through marcel.lopez@austincc.eduPublished: 01/19/2026 16:24:28