Virtual laboratory for undergraduate microelectronics courses

Undergraduate microelectronics courses can be improved by using a virtual laboratory as a teaching supplement to help students understand the fundamental concepts of semiconductor device operation. This laboratory uses computer aided design, or CAD tools, which allow students to simulate the complete semiconductor device design process including fabrication and device testing. The computer replaces the large prototype processing facility, consumes little time, and allows for quick correction of mistakes. Used as a supplement to lectures, laboratory projects can be assigned which require students to design semiconductor devices such as bipolar junction transistors and field effect transistors. This helps students to reinforce the material that is learned in class and clarify understanding of how a particular device works.