Engineering and Technology


Computer Engineering


Computer engineers work with the hardware and software aspects of systems design and development. They usually apply the theories and principles of science and mathematics to design hardware, software, networks, and processes and to solve technical problems. Whereas their work emphasises the application of theory, computer engineers are also involved in building prototypes.

They often work as part of a team that designs new computing devices or computer-related equipment, systems, or software.

Specialisations

Computer hardware engineers usually design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacture of computer hardware—such as chips or device controllers.

Software engineers, on the other hand, can be involved in the design and development of software systems for control and automation of manufacturing, business, and management processes. They may research, design, and test operating system software, compilers—software that converts programmes for faster processing—and network distribution software.

Software engineers or software developers working in applications development analyse users’ needs and design, create, and modify general computer applications software or specialised utility programmes.

These professionals also possess strong programming skills, but they are more concerned with analysing and solving programming problems than with writing code for programmes. Some software engineers develop both packaged and systems software or create customised software applications for clients.