Computer hardware engineers

 computer engineering degree

Computer hardware engineers typically do the following:

• Design new computer hardware, creating schematics of computer equipment to be built.
• Test the computer hardware they design.
• Analyze the test results and modify the design as needed.
• Update existing computer equipment so that it will work with new software.

• It’s versatile. I outlined some of the potential jobs and functions a computer engineer could fill at any one company in this Quora answer. I will outline them here again as well:

  Some computer engineers dive into the belly of the beast and specialize in ASIC design. From what I’ve seen, there is more demand for a position like this than there are positions. As it becomes cheaper to make chips, this may change.

  Similarly, some go into programming FPGAs. The only job I’ve had so far where FPGAs were when I worked at Cisco. They were used for routing lower layer data traffic on a DOCSIS 3.0 endpoint. Like ASIC design, less demand but don’t let that stop you.

  Some go into programming firmware and operating systems. There are more opportunities for you embedded Linux programming than ever before. (Think Raspberry Pi) they’re only going to get bigger. Programming firmware takes a special stet of skills considering its programming under extreme constraints. I highly recommend to find an experienced mentor if you’re thinking about firmware or operating softens work.

  Some go into system architecture and design. These types of jobs involve connecting circuits together to make a full product. (Schematic design and layout) This is my personal bread and butter but it’s specialized. If you like tinkering with signals and your physical objects, this one is for you.

  As you can see, there are many ways to utilize a computer engineering degree. The more important thing here though, if you choose this path, is how much effort you put into it will multiply the output you get on the other end. If you get by and do enough coursework to graduate and nothing more, you’re likely not going to get good at any aspect of engineering.

  I highly recommend this major for anyone who can’t be separated from their computer, aren’t afraid to break things, and have an open mind about the tiny minutiae that make up our vast world of electronics & computers.