I need a book for EE because the only thing I know is the word volts

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding introductory resources for electrical engineering (EE) for a freshman student who feels unprepared for their coursework. Participants share recommendations for books and websites, express concerns about the student's background in physics, and discuss the challenges of catching up with peers.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • The original poster expresses a lack of foundational knowledge in EE and seeks recommendations for introductory materials.
  • Some participants inquire about the specific class and previous physics coursework, suggesting that a physics background is important for understanding EE concepts.
  • A participant recommends a website, "All About Circuits," and suggests focusing on specific chapters for initial learning.
  • Concerns are raised about the feasibility of catching up without prior knowledge, with one participant suggesting the possibility of deferring studies or taking a bridging course.
  • Another participant recommends "The Art of Electronics" by Horowitz and Hill, noting its potential to provide a comprehensive background.
  • The original poster mentions purchasing additional books aimed at beginners in electronics, indicating an effort to supplement their learning.
  • There is a discussion about the assumptions made by recommended books regarding prior knowledge, with differing opinions on whether "The Art of Electronics" requires a background in the subject.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need for foundational knowledge in EE and the importance of supplementary resources. However, there is disagreement regarding the level of prior knowledge required for certain recommended books, indicating differing perspectives on the accessibility of these resources.

Contextual Notes

Some participants highlight the lack of a formal textbook in the EE class and the reliance on slides from the professor, which may contribute to the original poster's difficulties. The discussion reflects varying levels of preparedness among students in the same course.

Who May Find This Useful

Freshman students in electrical engineering or related fields, individuals seeking introductory resources in electronics, and those looking for community support in academic challenges.

mfalyahy
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I need a book for EE because the only thing I know is the word "volts"

Hey guys

I'm just started my freshman year in college and I chose EE as my major because its cool. But I realized that not only do I don't know a thing, but it seems that everyone in classes knows the material and knows what's going on except me. We don't have any book regarding the EE class (the profosser only uses slides). so I was looking for a book that could give me at least an introduction to EE, because I don't know what the heck a compressor is, nor an ampr, nor all those weird stuff they were talking about. Can somebody please help me out and tell me of a good book or website or something ?

thx
 
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In what class do you have problems, intro to circuits? Did you take a physics class? It should cover the basics. I honestly don't know of a good intro book to electronics, but have a look at this website. Also check amazon and read their reviews.

http://www.allaboutcircuits.com/vol_1/index.html

I'm sure you guys have a lab, but consider getting your own multimeter and some electronic parts to do experiments outside of your class.
 
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I believe that's the problem: I never took a physics class, in the American ciriculman atleast. So that is why every term in EE is new to me even though most of the students in the class knew what was going on. The class I'm taking for EE is "EEE 101 Intro to Engineering Design". As for the link, thank you, I took a fast look at it and it seems really helpful.
 


what's link is great. Concentrate on chapters 1, 2 and 5 and 14 for a start.

But unless you are a very fast learner, you are likely to fail because this is too much to absorb so quickly. Could you defer your studies and take some sort of bridging or beginner's course before trying to do College level?
 


mfalyahy said:
Hey guys

I'm just started my freshman year in college and I chose EE as my major because its cool. But I realized that not only do I don't know a thing, but it seems that everyone in classes knows the material and knows what's going on except me. We don't have any book regarding the EE class (the profosser only uses slides). so I was looking for a book that could give me at least an introduction to EE, because I don't know what the heck a compressor is, nor an ampr, nor all those weird stuff they were talking about. Can somebody please help me out and tell me of a good book or website or something ?

thx

Welcome to the PF. I don't know what a "compressor" is in the context of EE, so sorry I'm not help on that one. Don't worry too much about other students' head starts, as long as you are willing to work a bit to catch up. I'd recommend that you get a copy of the book "The Art of Electronics" by Horowitz and Hill, and make it a point to read it cover-to-cover before you are done with your freshman year. It will give you the background that the others appear to have on you.

Also, try to get a couple electronics kits and put those together in your spare time. That will really give you some practical experience, and help you to feel good about what you are learning. Have fun!
 


vk6kro: Indeed it is a great link. I don't think I can defer my studies and take some sort of bridging or beginner's course before trying to do College level because I'm already in the college level. However, I will do my best o comprehend and absorb the material, regardless of the hardships.

berkeman: thank you, I'm happy to be a member of this community. As for the book you recommended, I already took a look at it on Amazon and read the reviews. It is a very good book but assumes that you already have a background, which is something I lack. However, I did buy three other books which are: "Electrical Engineering 101, Second Edition: Everything You Should Have Learned in School...but Probably Didn't (w/ CD)", "Getting Started in Electronics ", and "All New Electronics Self-Teaching Guide (Wiley Self Teaching Guides) ".

thank you all for the help

mfalyahy
 


I don't recall the AoE assuming any background, as it starts super-basic. Glad to hear that you are finding good resources -- have fun!
 

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