How much circuits knowledge is needed to study device physics?

[ngjimmy310]

Circuits knowledge required for physical electronics?

I'm planning to study physical electronics and device/semiconductor physics in grad school. My relevant undergrad physics classes consisted of quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, electromagnetism, circuits, experimental physics, and solid state physics. I also took some electives in electrical engineering and materials science.

I have knowledge of basic semiconductor circuits with little design experience. Would it be beneficial for me to take more circuitry classes to prepare me for graduate school? Or is what I've done enough preparation?

 

[R.Mesri]

Yes, it would be beneficial for you to take more circuitry classes to prepare for physical electronics in graduate school. Depending on the specific program you are planning to attend, you may need a more in-depth understanding of circuitry. For example, you may need to understand concepts such as resistor networks, transistor models, and circuit analysis techniques. You should also be familiar with modern digital and analog design techniques, such as CMOS, TTL, and FPGA. Additionally, it could be helpful to learn more about microcontrollers and embedded systems. Lastly, it is important to understand the fundamentals of semiconductor physics, such as band structure and carrier transport.