Tech Talk 2024/1 – From The Silicon Alps to Silicon East

 

Venue: Faculty of Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technology, Universiti Malaysia Pahang (FTKEE UMPSA)
Attendees: 96 students and lecturers

Today, FTKEE UMPSA had the privilege of hosting a talk by representatives from AT&S, a prominent player in the semiconductor industry. The event aimed to provide insights into the semiconductor landscape, AT&S’s role within it, and its implications for Malaysia’s technological development.

AT&S Campus Inauguration: The talk commenced with an overview of the recent inauguration of the AT&S campus at Kulim Hi-Tech Park (KHTP). The campus, representing a significant investment in Malaysia, serves as a hub for innovation and technological advancement.

Malaysia’s Technological Positioning: Discussions centered on Malaysia’s positioning amidst global tensions and its emergence as a preferred destination for semiconductor manufacturing. AT&S’s investment in Malaysia underscores the country’s potential as a hub for high-tech investments and talent development.

Talent Development: A crucial aspect highlighted was the urgent need for talent to support Malaysia’s semiconductor industry. AT&S emphasized the importance of nurturing a skilled workforce through collaborations with academic institutions and industry partners.

Future Prospects: The talk concluded with a reflection on the future prospects for Malaysia’s semiconductor industry. With AT&S’s presence, Malaysia is poised to capitalize on its technological prowess and strategic partnerships, fostering innovation, growth, and prosperity.

PCB Substrate Technology: A significant aspect discussed during the talk was the role of Printed Circuit Board (PCB) substrate technology in semiconductor manufacturing. With a focus on 9um technology, attendees gained insights into the intricate processes involved in PCB substrate fabrication and its crucial role in the performance of integrated circuits.

Miniaturization and Precision: The emphasis on 9um PCB substrate technology highlighted the industry’s trend towards miniaturization and precision. Attendees learned about the challenges and opportunities presented by shrinking dimensions and the need for advanced manufacturing techniques to ensure reliability and performance.

These additional key points highlights the importance of PCB substrate technology in semiconductor manufacturing and its implications for Malaysia’s position in the global electronics industry.

The AT&S talk at FTKEE UMPSA gave insights into the semiconductor industry and its implications for Malaysia’s technological landscape. By fostering collaboration, talent development, and innovation, AT&S’s investment in Malaysia sets the stage for a promising future of technological advancement and economic growth.

In responds to the semiconductor offer in the market, continued collaboration between industry players and academic institutions to address talent shortages and skill gaps. Encouragement of students to pursue opportunities in the semiconductor industry through internships, research projects, and industry partnerships. Establishment of platforms for knowledge exchange and networking to further enhance Malaysia’s position as a hub for technological innovation.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Ruth Foo, Ilma Mujkic, and the entire AT&S team for their insightful presentation. Special thanks to the FTKEE  organizing committee and all attendees for making the event a success.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BTE3232 – Com System Design – FM Modulators and Demodulators

Hi BTE1522-ian,

Salam Ramadhan Al-Mubarak.

Today in our lab sessions, we looked into the Frequency Modulation (FM) modulation and demodulation technique. This hands-on experience not only offers insight into the fundamentals of communication systems but also provides a practical understanding of why FM remains a preferred choice in the broadcasting industry, yepp until today!

Lab 7: FM Modulator – the Essence of Frequency Modulation

In Lab 7, we explored the concept behind Frequency Modulation (FM), a modulation technique widely employed in radio broadcasting and communication systems. FM involves varying the frequency of a carrier signal in accordance with the amplitude of the modulating signal. But why do radio stations still predominantly utilize FM over other modulation techniques?

One primary reason is its superior resistance to noise. Unlike Amplitude Modulation (AM), which suffers from susceptibility to atmospheric interference and electrical noise, FM offers better fidelity and clarity in signal transmission. This is crucial for broadcasting music and speech, ensuring high-quality audio reception for listeners.

Moreover, FM allows for efficient bandwidth utilization. By varying the frequency of the carrier signal, FM can accommodate a wide range of audio frequencies within a smaller bandwidth, making it more spectrum-efficient compared to AM.

Building Your Own FM Transmitter: A Fascinating Project

Constructing your own FM transmitter can be an exciting project, offering hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of FM modulation principles. By employing basic electronic components such as oscillators, modulators, and antennas, you can create a simple yet functional FM transmitter. This project not only reinforces theoretical concepts but also fosters creativity and problem-solving skills.

 

 

 

Lab 8: FM Demodulator – Deciphering the Magic of FM Demodulation

In Lab 8, we explored FM demodulation techniques, which are essential for retrieving the original modulating signal from an FM modulated carrier wave. Two common demodulation methods used are Phase-Locked Loop (PLL) and Frequency Discriminator (FM-AM discriminator).

PLL demodulation relies on a feedback loop to synchronize the phase of a local oscillator with the incoming FM signal. This synchronized oscillator produces an output voltage proportional to the frequency deviation of the FM signal, allowing for accurate demodulation.

On the other hand, FM-AM discriminator demodulation capitalizes on the frequency-to-amplitude conversion characteristic of FM signals. By passing the FM signal through a frequency-selective circuit, variations in frequency translate into variations in amplitude, which can then be extracted as the modulating signal.

Building Your Own FM Receiver: A Captivating Endeavor

Constructing an FM receiver offers a rewarding experience, enabling you to tune in to your favorite radio stations and explore the world of wireless communication firsthand. With components such as antennas, tuned circuits, and detectors, you can assemble a basic FM receiver capable of capturing and demodulating FM signals. This project not only enhances technical skills but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of communication systems.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In conclusion, our lab experiments in FM modulation and demodulation provide invaluable insights into the design and operation of communication systems. By understanding the principles behind FM modulation and demodulation, as well as engaging in hands-on projects, we can further enrich our knowledge and appreciation for the fascinating world of wireless communication.

Keep exploring, keep learning, and let your curiosity guide you on this exciting journey of discovery!

BTE1522 – Innovation (Python) – Week 4 – Act 6 7

Today’s class on BTE1522 – Innovation (Python), we continue the exciting journey of Slider Game development through Activities 6 and 7. The focus centered on implementing a game timer and a game over function in the game, enriching the understanding of essential coding concepts while enhancing our gaming experience.

In Step 6, a game timer is introduced, injecting an element of urgency and time management into our game dynamics. As we looked into this concept, we explored the means of tracking time within the game environment and orchestrating specific events based on elapsed time.

Step 7 propelled us into the intricacies of timing systems, where we fine-tuned our game mechanics to ensure a fluid and immersive gameplay experience. This step demanded a delicate balance of coordination, as we synchronized various game events, including character movements and enemy appearances.

A pseudo-code for the overall codes:-

Assignment

Here is the details of the Assignment that should be completed by April 22nd, 2024.

Arduino Robotics 2024/1 – TTT Mentor Training

*UMP STEM Lab Arduino Robotics Programming Synopsis can be found here.

The Arduino robotics programming session focused on introducing 30  students, from the Faculty of Electrical and Electronics Engineering UMPSA, to the fundamentals of coding and robotics using Arduino microcontrollers. The content covered basic coding concepts and gradually progressed to advanced topics such as line following algorithms. Through hands-on exercises and projects, students gained practical experience in programming Arduino boards to control a miniature 2-wheel robotic systems. The session successfully engaged students in interactive learning activities, fostering their understanding of robotics principles and enhancing their coding skills.

A special appreciation is extended to the faculty for their exceptional coordination in facilitating communication between the participants and the UMP STEM Lab.

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Raspberry Pi Programming 2024/1 – TTT Mentor Training

*UMP STEM Lab Raspberry Pi Programming Synopsis can be found here.

In the Raspberry Pi IoT session, 33 students from the Faculty of Electrical and Electronics Engineering UMPSA were introduced to the concept of the Internet of Things (IoT) using Raspberry Pi on the UMP STEM Cube, a pico-satellite learning kit specifically designed to facilitate engineering learning.

The content covered basic digital input/output operations on onboard LEDs, as well as topics such as dashboard design using gyrometer and BMU280 sensor data, including collecting and storing data in a cloud database. Students learned to interface sensors with Raspberry Pi boards and develop IoT applications for real-world scenarios. The session provided students with valuable insights into IoT technology and its applications in various domains.

A special appreciation is extended to the faculty for their exceptional coordination in facilitating communication between the participants and the UMP STEM Lab.