Finding the Perfect EE Book for Beginners

In summary: EE is a large field covering many topics, and there is no one "right" way to learn it. Depending on your goals, you may find that a more basic resource such as "Engineering Circuit Analysis" by Hayt and Kemmerly is all you need to get started. Alternatively, if you are looking to prepare for a career in electrical engineering, you will need to be proficient in algebra, trigonometry, complex numbers, and calculus. Regardless of your level of experience, there are many resources available on the internet to help you learn the basics. Thanks for asking!
  • #1
Frederica Salt
16
3
Suggestion for best book for basic EE please. I think I need the very basic one. Please. :biggrin:
 
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  • #2
"Engineering Circuit Analysis" by Hayt and Kemmerly. I used this book for Circuits I, Circuits II, various lab courses, and as a reference. I still have it and still use it to this day (and I graduated from college in 2003).

http://www.slideshare.net/nakulrtm/engineering-circuit-analysis7th-editionhayt-and-kimmerly

How are your algebra, trigonometry, complex numbers, and calculus skills?
 
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  • #3
What are your goals? Are you trying to prep entering into an EE program? or just want to self learn some of the basics?

EE is a large field covering many topics :) But Circuit analysis as EM_Guy suggested is never a bad place to start :)
 
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  • #4
EM_Guy said:
"Engineering Circuit Analysis" by Hayt and Kemmerly. I used this book for Circuits I, Circuits II, various lab courses, and as a reference. I still have it and still use it to this day (and I graduated from college in 2003).

http://www.slideshare.net/nakulrtm/engineering-circuit-analysis7th-editionhayt-and-kimmerly

How are your algebra, trigonometry, complex numbers, and calculus skills?
I've just read the first chapter Sir. I downloaded a pdf. That was the same book our instructor recommended. But my analysis is not that good. I really want to get familiar with the basics. :rolleyes: I think I'm kind of good in math Sir, but not that in application.
 
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  • #5
cpscdave said:
What are your goals? Are you trying to prep entering into an EE program? or just want to self learn some of the basics?

EE is a large field covering many topics :) But Circuit analysis as EM_Guy suggested is never a bad place to start :)
I have a Basic EE subject because I'm taking up Civil Eng'g. We have tackled the lessons already in Physics but still, I have difficulties especially in application and I really want to good at it. :rolleyes: :biggrin:
 
  • #6
I'm not sure what to tell you. Math is the language of circuits. I don't see any way around it. But it does take a lot of time and practice. When I took Circuits I, I spent 3-5 hours studying outside of class for every hour I spent in class. If you go step-by-step, it is all pretty straightforward. But if you are weak in algebra, logarithms, complex numbers, exponential decays, or basic calculus, then you need to get up to speed in those. However, to learn the basics of circuit theory (DC circuits with no capacitors or inductors and only using voltage sources and resistors), you just need to know basic algebra.

All the best. There are plenty of people on these forums to help you if you have specific questions.
 
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  • #7
EM_Guy said:
I'm not sure what to tell you. Math is the language of circuits. I don't see any way around it. But it does take a lot of time and practice. When I took Circuits I, I spent 3-5 hours studying outside of class for every hour I spent in class. If you go step-by-step, it is all pretty straightforward. But if you are weak in algebra, logarithms, complex numbers, exponential decays, or basic calculus, then you need to get up to speed in those. However, to learn the basics of circuit theory (DC circuits with no capacitors or inductors and only using voltage sources and resistors), you just need to know basic algebra.

All the best. There are plenty of people on these forums to help you if you have specific questions.
Yes yes. I guess so. Anyway, thank you Sir. I really have to practice more and more. :smile:
 
  • #8
Also take a look at http://www.falstad.com/circuit/ its a really great online simple circuit simulator. When I was going through the various circuit course we took, I found it quite helpful to "see" what was going on.
 
  • #9
cpscdave said:
Also take a look at http://www.falstad.com/circuit/ its a really great online simple circuit simulator. When I was going through the various circuit course we took, I found it quite helpful to "see" what was going on.
I think this will help. Thanks.
 
  • #10
Hello Mrs. Salt! - Welcome --

How do you see EE knowledge fitting into your world. Just like CivE -- EE is pretty broad.
 
  • #11
Windadct said:
Hello Mrs. Salt! - Welcome --

How do you see EE knowledge fitting into your world. Just like CivE -- EE is pretty broad.
#Ms :biggrin: I think we just have to make an electrical plan at the end of the semester, but our instructor maybe wanted us to really know the basic, testing us if we can. Just maybe. :rolleyes:
 
  • #12
I have a friend that is a PE Civ - he does Traffic ( I only hate him a little for this! :rolleyes: ) -- By electrical plan, for what - do you need to make a circuit?

Point being - the logic of a traffic intersection with LED lights - and sensors could be done in about 20 Hours of work -- I just realized it could all be done in simulation!
 
  • #13
Oh and my apologizes on the Mrs vs Ms... Etiquette level = Engineer - cheers
 
  • #14
Windadct said:
Oh and my apologizes on the Mrs vs Ms... Etiquette level = Engineer - cheers
It's okay. Haha
 
  • #15
The Art of Electronics, by Horowitz, is a wonderful reference I find for analogue electronics. I haven't really used it for digital electronics, but I found our digital course pretty easy so I didn't need to.

It covers electronics and electric circuits from RC circuits and basic digital electronics up through microprocessors and signal processing. It's not very deep, but for a non specialist I imagine it would be more than sufficient. You can usually find some cheaper ones on ebay, but apparently some of the older editions are very different from the newer ones, so check around (I don't recall which edition my one is).
 

1. How do I know which book is best for a beginner in electrical engineering?

When looking for a book on electrical engineering for beginners, it's important to consider the author's credentials and the book's reviews. Look for books written by experienced engineers and check for positive feedback from other readers. Additionally, consider the book's level of difficulty and make sure it aligns with your current knowledge and understanding of the subject.

2. What topics should a beginner's electrical engineering book cover?

A good beginner's book on electrical engineering should cover the basics of circuits, voltage, current, resistance, and Ohm's law. It should also include information on electrical components like resistors, capacitors, and inductors, as well as introductions to topics like digital logic and circuit analysis.

3. Are there any free resources for beginners in electrical engineering?

Yes, there are many free online resources for beginners in electrical engineering. Some popular options include online tutorials, YouTube channels, and open-source textbooks. These resources can provide a great starting point for learning the fundamentals of electrical engineering.

4. How can I make sure the book I choose is up-to-date?

Before purchasing a book on electrical engineering for beginners, check the publication date and make sure it is recent. Electrical engineering is a constantly evolving field, so it's important to have the most up-to-date information. You can also look for books that are written by authors who regularly update their editions to reflect new developments in the field.

5. Should I choose a book that focuses on theory or practical applications?

It ultimately depends on your learning style and goals. If you prefer a more hands-on approach, a book that includes practical applications and projects may be more beneficial. However, if you are looking to gain a solid understanding of the theory behind electrical engineering, a book that focuses on theoretical concepts may be a better fit.

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