Do electrical engineers need to know programming?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the necessity of programming knowledge for electrical engineers, with a specific focus on the C programming language. Participants explore various programming languages relevant to electrical engineering, including MATLAB, Python, and C, and their applications in different engineering tasks.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants argue that all electrical engineers should be comfortable programming in some language, with the choice of language depending on their specific work and tools.
  • It is noted that many electrical engineers use MATLAB for its strong integration with hardware and capabilities for calculations and simulations.
  • Others mention that languages like Python or Tcl/Tk are preferred for tasks requiring good scripting abilities, such as IC design.
  • There is a strong emphasis from some participants on the importance of C and C++ for engineers, particularly for device drivers and microcontroller programming.
  • One participant expresses a preference for learning Python before C, while another finds learning C to be boring and seeks advice on making it more engaging.
  • A suggestion is made to apply C programming in practical projects, such as programming a microcontroller to control LEDs, to enhance the learning experience.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of programming for electrical engineers, but there is no consensus on which programming language is the most essential or the best order for learning them. Multiple competing views on preferred languages and learning paths remain.

Contextual Notes

Some limitations include the varying definitions of what constitutes essential programming knowledge and the specific contexts in which different languages are used. The discussion also reflects differing opinions on the ease of learning various programming languages.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for electrical engineering students, professionals considering programming skills, and educators developing curriculum related to programming in engineering contexts.

SuperMiguel
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do electrical engineers need to know programming? specifically C language
 
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SuperMiguel said:
do electrical engineers need to know programming? specifically C language

I'd say that all EEs shouldl be comfortable programming in some language. Which language would generally depend on what kind of work you do, and what tools you use.

Many EEs program in MATLAB, because it has good links to outside hardware and is good for calculations and simulations. Others use a language more like Python or Tcl/Tk, because they need good scripting abilities (like for IC design tasks). Others program in C or variations of C, as in working with Embedded Systems.
 
should i start with MATLAB or with something like C
 
It doesn't really matter. MatLAB costs money however, but any free ide/compiler will work for C
 
C is a must for every engineer. Frankly, I consider c++ to be a must these days as well.
For example, device drivers and microcontroller programming are typically written/done in C.


Higher level scripting languages like MATLAB, Python and others are becoming increasingly more popular.

All speed critical applications are based on C/C++.
 
physiker_192 said:
C is a must for every engineer. Frankly, I consider c++ to be a must these days as well.
For example, device drivers and microcontroller programming are typically written/done in C.


Higher level scripting languages like MATLAB, Python and others are becoming increasingly more popular.

All speed critical applications are based on C/C++.

is it easier to learn python and then C, or C and then python...

I keep trying to learn C, but i find it very very boring =(
 
Program a real chip with arms and legs (or LEDs) and it won't be so boring.

Try the free C compiler from Microchip. Make an LED blink on and off every second. You'll learn some C in an applied way.
 

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